The Star Post 07-26-2023

People persons

Park vision

becomes a reality

Wessels are Barley Days grand marshals

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER

“The people,” was Al Wessel’s answer when asked what he liked about owning Big Al’s Corral in Greenwald from 1981 to 1994. Wife Lucy agrees.

“Some weekends the bar was packed, like when the Buck Band – Pat Sieben, Terry Haider, Mark Schwieters and Scott Spanier – played. They had a lot of followers,” Al said July 14 sitting around the living room table with Lucy. “In later years, Eb Fuchs joined Mark and Terry and Pat, and now Mark and Eb are still going as the Buck Band.”

Lucy said Sunday morning was bar cleaning time –and a family affair – in a town she knew well.

“All my life,” she said when asked how long she has lived in Greenwald. She remembers when there was a grocery store, hardware store, implement shop, multiple blacksmith shops, bank, church and a creamery in town.

Al was raised on a farm in rural Sauk Centre, one of Cyril and Regina Wessels’ eight children. Since 1983, Al and Lucy have lived in the Greenwald house where Lucy was raised with her 13 siblings; the children of Jack and Mabel Kraemer. It is where Al and Lucy raised their four children, Dustin, Becky Hoffman, Amber Fleischhacker and Eddie. Their four grandchildren are frequent visitors.

Wessels page 3

Albany National Night Out to showcase park improvements

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

People attending the Tuesday, Aug. 1, National Night Out at North Park in Albany will be able to walk along a nature trail, which includes a floating walking path; view the lake from an observation pier; play or watch pickleball or tennis and utilize a dog park. They are among the new ameni-

ties at the 50-acre city-owned park on the north side of town.

The Albany Jaycees and Friends of North Park worked with the Albany Park Board and city council to develop phase one park improvements. Most of the improvements, including materials and labor, were funded by private donations, including future maintenance. Part of the new pickleball courts received city funding, already reserved for pickleball courts.

Focused

autocross girl

Lieser excited to race at Stearns County Fair first time event

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

Jillian Lieser’s maroon 1993 Dodge Spirit is ready to roll. And so is Lieser.

This 18-year-old Melrose woman will be competing in the first ever autocross race at the Stearns County Fairgrounds in Sauk Centre starting at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 30.

“It’s a lot of adrenaline because everything comes really fast,” she said July 18, recalling her first time racing earlier this year.

Autocross racing piqued her interest

a few years ago when her stepfather, Corey Bueckers, raced. She watched him participate in demolition derbies for years.

“I always knew I wanted to do derbying, and autocross is getting me started. Last year I rode with Corey, because you can have passengers when autocross racing, and I thought, ‘Oh, my gosh, I want to do this,’” said Lieser, daughter of Cheryl Bueckers, and a 2023 Sauk Centre High School graduate, who

at Felling Trailers in Sauk Centre.

Lieser page 3

“It adds to the journey of being community members when this is all done, and what we achieved and accomplished because of what we did together,” said Dalton Herzog, Jaycee member and project volunteer. There is potential for this muchused city owned park, said Frank Haynes, Friends of North Park member.

North Park page 3

Avon fire hall expansion moves through design phase

City leaders review schematics, learn about soil correction

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

Avon’s fire hall expansion will require additional money for soil correction work.

W. Gohman Construction Co. is overseeing management for the new fire facility. St. Cloud-based GLTArchitects is working with St. Joseph-based W. Gohman on the project’s design.

Assistant fire chief Chuck Swenson and senior project manager Bill Trout presented preliminary plans and a $1.9 million preliminary core project schematic budget during the Avon council’s July 10 meeting.

Recently discovered poor soil conditions at 140 Stratford St. E. will add $75,000 to $100,000 to the estimated project cost. Construction is slated to begin July 2024.

Fire hall page 2

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN Frank Haynes (left) and Dalton Herzog sit on rocks near a new walking path at North Park in Albany, overlooking a reflection pond and green space with new tennis and pickleball courts in the background. Park

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN

Lucy and Al Wessel display their favorite pastimes, putting puzzles together and coaching Legion baseball, July 14 in their Greenwald home. They are grand marshals for the Aug. 6 Barley Days Parade in Greenwald.

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN

Jillian Lieser sits on her 1993 Dodge Spirit autocross car July 19 in rural Melrose, where the vehicle was modified for racing. When competing, she wears protective gear, like a helmet and safety glasses.

works

Melrose council looking at vacant building ordinance

Hope to prevent concerns about safety

BY CAROL MOORMAN | STAFF WRITER

Currently, the city of Melrose does not have an ordinance addressing vacant buildings and their maintenance, and they deal with concerns through their nuisance ordinance. In an effort to ensure these buildings don’t get to the nuisance stage, the city council is looking at adopting a vacant building ordinance.

Council members, during their July 20 monthly meeting at the Melrose City Center, had a lengthy discussion, before tabling adoption of a vacant building ordinance presented to them, allowing them time to research the issue and give residents time to voice their opinions.

Sheila Hellermann, community development director, said Melrose Planning & Zoning and Melrose Area Development Authority have been discussing vacant buildings in the city and their maintenance. In researching this, staff found many cities adopt a vacant building registration process so owners of these buildings need to register them with the city and provide a plan for the property, so they do not become in a state of disrepair.

“Is it for sale? Are there plans for remodeling?

Are there plans to demolish it?” Hellermann said in a follow-up interview July 21. “Also, it would be an opportunity for us to help. Are there funds we could help you access to fix things up? How can the city assist in plans for redeveloping and maximizing the spaces we have?”

An ordinance could potentially allow city staff to access and inspect the properties.

“The intent here is not the collection of fees, but really to keep the city looking good. Also, right now, there is considerable interest in properties, so we want to encourage the development of these opportunities,” packet information to the council read.

Councilor Tony Klasen had concerns with some requirements.

“If they own a building, they are paying property taxes,” he said. “We have other ordinances that can address nuisances.”

Another concern was the timeframe and making sure snowbirds are exempt.

Mayor Joe Finken brought up safety issues with vacant buildings, if they get to the state of disrepair, that may become a hazard for emergency personnel if there was a need to go into them.

“We have to look at things like that,” said Finken, a Melrose firefighter. “I think some of these buildings should be checked a little more for the safety of other people.”

Before tabling the issue for one month, Finken encouraged residents to voice their concerns to council members or city staff.

Albany ELC bids narrowly under budget

Board approved construction, food service contracts

BY HANS LAMMEMAN | STAFF WRITER

Construction bids for the project to convert the former Albany Hospital building into the Albany School District’s Early Learning Center came in narrowly under budget, according to ICS project manager Kyle Walter.

During the July 12 Albany School Board meeting, Walter reported that the recommended bids were within 1% of the budget estimates for the project which totaled close to $11,720,000. He said the actual costs compared to estimates were closer than he has previously experienced.

“I was really happy with the results we had,” Walter said. “We had 46 total bidders across 14 separate contract work scopes. So, a very good turnout on all aspects there.”

The board acted on Walter’s recommendation to accept the base bid with three alternates previously set aside in case costs came in higher than anticipated. The $28 remaining after awarding the construction bids includes the alternates and avoids spending any contingency funds.

“We are still reserving all of the contingency that was part of that original budget for any unforeseen contingency that we may find with a building of that vintage,” Walter said. “We were within 1% of our estimate. With the different fluctuations in the market and what we have seen with COVID, and things like that, I was extremely happy with the results that we had.”

Walters said the alternates included an adjustment to the multipurpose space in case the district needs to use it for athletics in the future. The base bid included electrical pathways in the precast for potential athletic equipment.

The board unanimously approved a motion from director Ozzie Carbajal in favor of the recommended base construction bids.

In other board news:

– Approved awarding the food service bid to a new dairy provider for the coming school year. As opposed to their previous provider, Kemps, board members unanimously approved a motion from director Dean Dirkes to award the contract to Stony Creek Dairy.

Director of business services Sue Clemen said the Melrose-based dairy provider came in with the lowest offer among three bidders. She said Stony Creek Dairy provides milk for Sauk Centre, Watkins, Melrose and various Minneapolis schools.

Cross connection

Companies contribute expertise to SonRise church project in Avon

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

A large iron cross greets people traveling on County Road 9 in Avon, in front of SonRise Lutheran Church.

The Rev. Jeff Manthe, pastor, said Midsota by Novae, of Avon, designed and manufactured the cross and donated it to the church and Klein Builders, Inc., of St. Joseph, provided the concrete base work and installation.

Manthe explained the idea to put up a large cross started last summer, as congregation members looked for a way to better designate who and what they are. The property was once a landscape nursery. In 2004 the church, which was started in 2003 and currently has close to 67 members, secured the building and began worshiping there.

“Because of the nature of the building we couldn’t put a cross on the structure,” he said. “We started talking about putting up a free standing cross that had good visibility from the road.”

Manthe contacted MidSota by Novae, and they were willing to build a cross.

“It was amazing when we saw it. They put a beautiful finish on it, so it will last for a long time, and then

they said, by the way, we are going to do this for you,” Manthe said.

He connected with Klein Builders who helped with the concrete work and installation, firmly anchoring the 22 feet high by 9 feet wide cross in place.

The cross was installed June 27, solidifying the identity of the church.

“We are feeling blessed and give thanks that the skill and expertise of this work now provides glory to God by the cross being visible every moment to people driving on County Road 9,” Manthe said.

Albany council addresses solid waste hauler complaints

City staff, mayor acknowledge calls regarding West Central

BY TIM HENNAGIR | STAFF WRITER

Albany Mayor Tom Kasner and city staff had a busy July fielding complaints about solid waste collection.

The issue was addressed during Kasner’s scheduled agenda report during the council’s July 19 meeting.

Deputy clerk Heather Cruz and administrative assistant Molly Hoppe also addressed complaints about Willmar-based West Central Sanitation, which became Albany’s new solid waste hauler earlier this year.

Councilor Keith Heitzman mentioned residents commenting on social media. He specifically mentioned negative Facebook comments.

Kasner said he called Jeff Bertram, West Central’s administrative sales manager.

“Every Monday morning, the phones have been ringing at city hall,” Cruz

Fire hall from front

“We will have some type of soil correction,” Swenson said. “We’ll probably do some de-watering on the north side of the site because of the ground water level.”

Avon Township, Collegeville Township, Avon fire and city representatives have been discussing a design-build concept to enhance the existing 1964 fire hall building.

Those representatives support adding two design alternatives to the core project. One alternative is remodeling an existing

said. “We’ve been getting calls about garbage and yard waste not being picked up and comments about garbage flying out of the trucks and into people’s yards and tipped over garbage cans.” Kasner said he’s seen many overturned cans after collection.

Cruz said she didn’t know if the problems were related to West Central’s drivers or collection routes getting synchronized.

Kasner reported there were probably a dozen people in town who didn’t have yard waste containers delivered up until two weeks ago.

“I called Jeff on that, and it’s been taken care of. I contacted everyone who contacted me. I don’t know what the hold-up was,” Kasner said.

Hoppe reported a yard cart order backlog.

“What upsets me the

fire truck equipment bay to transform it into a new training room and office space with a kitchen and bathroom ($238,174). The other alternative is adding a vestibule and dispatch room to plans ($135,000).

Completing the two alternatives at the same time would mean a cost savings of $30,000, Swenson said.

“There’s been many conversations and decisions made to this point,” Swenson added. “Everything we’ve done with the committee has brought the cost down.”

Swenson said the $1.9 million covers the cost for the apparatus bay that’s approximately 80 feet by 100

most about that is about a week after they started picking up garbage, West Central went around town and picked up all of the bins Bueckers City Sanitation had in town and crushed them in an old garbage truck,” Kasner said.

Resident Bruce Winter challenged Kasner for previously stating at a city council meeting uncollected garbage represented a health hazard.

“What if a person doesn’t pay their bill because garbage isn’t being picked up?” he asked. Kasner said there have been changes in West Central’s collection times.

Resident Debbie Sabrowsky mentioned a speeding neighborhood garbage truck.

“That garbage truck made a two-block radius around my house at least six times. He never picked up,” she said. “I flagged him down and dragged my garbage can across the street. The driver said the container was hidden behind a recycling bin.”

Kasner said city staff will provide residents with

feet. All project numbers are approximate.

Trout said there would be “definite savings” in combining various fire hall project building sequences.

“Once we get formal approval, we would move into Phase 2 with construction documents,” Trout said.

“Those documents would receive bids, and we would then determine a maximum guaranteed price.”

Councilor Aaron Goebel asked Swenson if the townships were concerned about adding extra rooms.

Goebel and other city council members liked the schematic drawings presented on July 10.

Goebel made a motion, seconded by Councilor Katie Reiling, to authorize a $26,941 payment to W. Gohman for the Phase 1 design work that had been presented.

Swenson said township representatives were involved in four fire hall project informational meetings.

“They said be responsible regarding cost because they have to communicate this to constituents,” he add-

Bertram’s contact information if future problems occur.

“We are not going to be the person in the middle anymore,” Kasner said. “(West Central Sanitation) needs to take care of this directly.”

City attorney Susan Dege also addressed the garbage issue during the meeting.

Dege said the city has remedies and provisions in its three-year contract with West Central Sanitation.

“If this continues to be a problem, reach out to me,” Dege told the council. “If it’s an issue of a bad route driver, we can ask to have him replaced. We have remedies we can use to try and get better service.”

Winter was concerned about being billed by West Central for possible damage to a solid waste bin.

“They told us if a garbage container gets broken, we owe them for it,” Winter said. “They cost $165 apiece. If they keep slamming them down (during collection), I’m not going to pay for that. It happens a lot.”

ed. “They have included the project in levy plans for next year.”

City administrator and clerk Jodi Austing-Traut said the council’s next job is figuring out project bonding.

“Our city attorney needs to draft something to make sure all parties are on the same page,” she said.

Council members agreed city attorney Mike Couri should draft an agreement that would spell out townships’ commitments to remain under contract for services.

Swenson said the two townships have been informed regarding responsibilities under a 20-year bond.

Austing-Traut told Avon city leaders if the fire hall project is built according to schedule next summer, a big bump in the city’s levy might not be required.

“You would make a smaller one, but you need to plan for next year. You might want to average that out,” she said. “The Avon council has a budget workshop set Aug. 28.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Griffin Loso (front); (back, from left) Bryan Schlangen and Tayler Burg, of MidSota by Novae, the Rev. Jeff Manthe, of SonRise Lutheran Church, and Randy Klein, Jason Klein, Mark Klein and Matt Loso, of Klein Builders, gather in front of a cross installed June 27 at the church in Avon. The cross solidifies the identity of the church, at a location which was once a landscape nursery. Klein Builders employees, from St. Joseph, install a cross in front of SonRise Lutheran Church in Avon June 27. The cross was constructed by MidSota by Novae, of Avon.

Avon, Freeport, Melrose hosting night out, safety events

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

Avon, Freeport and Melrose will hold night out and safety events, bringing community members together in early August.

Friends, Family, Food & Fun is the theme of Avon’s National Night Out 5:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1, at the Lake Wobegon Trailhead, 108 Second St. NE, Avon. There will be childrens activities, food, refreshments, music by the Rocks & Cows DJ and an appearance by K9 Maverick, Avon police, firefighters and Stearns County Sheriff’s deputies.

National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors, police officers and firefighters. It is an oppor-

North Park from front

“The Jaycees have their ice cup here,” Herzog said. “And the shelter is reserved a lot. The Jaycees built the structure … and there is such a demand they added on three times.”

Children utilize the playground equipment, people walk on the current trails, and there is a skate park and frisbee golf.

Improvements piggyback on a 2019 city survey indicating a dog park, pickleball courts and a splash pad were top ideas.

Over the years, there have been discussions about enhancing and better utilizing North Park, Haynes said.

“With phase one we are trying to capture the assets Albany has; one idea being to get North Lake to be more enjoyable and accessible to the community,” Haynes said.

Wessels

from front

Chances are, family will be on their front lawn at 11 a.m. Aug. 6, as Al and Lucy ride in the Barley Days Parade, as grand marshals. The plan is for them to ride in the rumble seat of a 100-yearold Model T Ford owned – and possibly driven – by Virgil Niehaus, who was the Wessels’ neighbor on the farm.

“My brother, Bill, is lining that up,” Al said.

Their grandson, Nolan, will be throwing out candy.

The Wessels, married 48 years, said it is a humbling honor, but one they graciously accepted.

They married May 17, 1975, eventually moving to a house in Greenwald, just

Lieser from front

She explained with autocross, participants race around a track in timed laps.

“You go around like eight times, and if you are in first or second place, you move on to the feature,” she said.

At the fairgrounds, autocross racing is in the same location used for the demolition derbies.

“You race, but you can bump, push and shove each other, but not full on,” she said.

Racers wear protective gear, like helmets and safety glasses.

Lieser modified her vehicle, which was her sister’s first car.

“It’s a front wheel drive car, which typically works best, and it’s easier to get around corners,” she said.

With help from Corey Bueckers, Lieser removed the headlights, back window, backseat and bumpers.

“I made my own bumper out of metal tubing,” Lieser said. “It’s better because it’s not as easy to poke a hole in

tunity to connect and bring everyone together under positive circumstances instead of focusing on a culture that isolates us from one another.

People are encouraged to wear red, white and blue to show support for local fire and rescue and law enforcement.

The city of Melrose/Melrose Public Utilities will be hosting their annual Melrose Night Out, in conjunction with the Melrose Farmers Market, from 3-7 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 2, along the Lake Wobegon Trail, near Coborn’s in Melrose. Police, ambulance and fire department members will be present. There will be youth activities by the Melrose Area Youth Center, a bounce house, art activities

Work on the improvements started immediately after Albany City Council members approved phase one in March.

“There was still snow on the ground,” Haynes said.

On his cell phone, Herzog, sitting in the park pavilion with Haynes July 18, brings up a photo of the first diseased trees volunteers took down around 3 p.m., March 26. Dedicated individuals cleared brush and diseased trees from around an existing reflection pond, and the tree removal also made the lake more accessible.

“Once phase one is settled, we’ll be looking to plant new trees as needed,” Haynes said. A nature trail connects with other waking paths throughout the park, including around a reflection pond.

“The walking path will be continuous,” Herzog said.

The Department of Nat-

south of the railroad tracks, before moving to their current home in 1983. At the time, Al worked at Kraemer Lumber in Greenwald before they purchased the bar in 1981. They recall names of the bar before they owned it – Earl’s, Wunderbar and The Clinic; Al was a bartender at the first two bars.

When they took over the bar, bottled beer and drinks were 75 cents.

“But if you specified what (booze) you wanted, it was more,” Lucy said. Al started the still popular Thursday night special, she said.

“Angie Kulzer was working for me for noon dinners, and we discussed getting it going,” Al said.

“She used to cook years ago when there was a café in the same building but on the west side,” Lucy added.

my radiator, and it’s safer.” They put on “beefier” tires.

“We are driving in dirt, and that will help get more traction,” she said.

They installed a different fuel cell, to ensure no gas leaks from the gas tank.

“A lot of the stuff we used Corey and Eric (Corey Bueckers’ brother) had, and they helped put it together,” she said.

Lieser participated in two autocross races this year, in Alexandria and Motley. A friend rode with her in Alexandria, her first race behind the wheel.

“I was really nervous, but once they waved the flag my adrenaline took over and it was exciting,” she said.

“Between all of the loud cars, you are so focused on what’s going on.”

In Motley, she earned first place in one lap, advancing her to the feature race. She earned second place in the Motley powder puff race.

There is an entry fee, which allows for a payout for the winners. She has learned what to look out for – and listen for – when racing.

by the Melrose Area Arts Council and live music by the Lake Wobegon Blues band. The farmers market includes close to 20 vendors and food trucks.

People can meet law enforcement, firefighters and ambulance service members during Public Safety in the Park, from 6-9 p.m., Monday, Aug. 7, at the Freeport Lions Park, 205 Seventh St. SE, Freeport.

Local agencies include the Freeport Fire Department, Melrose Ambulance Service, Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

There will be food, refreshments, games and music.

ural Resources was involved with the development of the nature trail, part of which goes through a marshy area.

“The nature trail is a good example of one of the goals to get families and children outside and away from their TV and electronics,” Haynes said.

Pickleball courts and tennis courts are north of the pavilion.

“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the U.S., and now we have six of them,” Haynes said.

A fenced-in dog park is in a secluded, shaded area of the park.

“The pickleball court, dog park and walking paths will all have different audiences,” Haynes said.

Herzog added, “It’s important for people to feel welcome in their own park.”

National Night Out, coordinated by the Albany Jaycees, Friends of North Park and the city of Albany, will be the first large gather-

Bands performed on their stage most weekends. The Wessels rattled off a few bands – Crystal Breeze, Top Notch, Swingtown, Switch, Heartbeat and the Buck Band.

The bar was open seven days a week, but Al took off a few hours a couple of nights a week, and Lucy made sure he took off Sunday afternoons.

“We raised our family on it,” Al said. “It was good.”

From there, he worked at Jennie-O Turkey Store in Melrose, retiring May 31.

Lucy enjoys putting puzzles together, and Al has coached Legion team baseball in Greenwald for years. They both pitch in during Barley Days; Lucy in the hamburger stand and Al in the beer gardens. Their

“Sometimes, with the motor, you are not getting enough power or something is wrong with your tires and you are not getting enough traction,” Lieser said. “In Motley, I had my airbag go off after someone hit me, and I shoved it back in my steering wheel and kept going.”

Each race track has a different layout and length.

“Through the different tracks, I’ve learned tactics to turn and get around corners tighter,” she said. And she had learned not to be scared, as she travels 20 to 30 mph around a race track.

“Just do it,” is her advice to others thinking about autocross racing.

During her previous races, family and friends cheered her on in the stands, much like she did in her younger years, which spurred her on to becoming a driver, with a goal in mind.

“I hope I get to derby some day,” she said.

Autocross racing is her stepping stone.

“It was 100% what I thought it would be,” she said.

Ryan Thomas Gill, Jr.

Ryan Gill and Sarah Sumner, of New Munich, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Ryan Thomas Gill, Jr., “RJ,” at 10:11 a.m., July 18, 2023, at CentraCareMelrose Hospital in Melrose.

He weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces and measured 19.5 inches long.

Big Sister Raelynn, 2.5 years old, welcomed him home.

Grandparents are Curtis and Sue Sumner, of Albany; Tom Gill, III, of Albany; and

Mason Robert Frieler Jacob and Amanda Frieler, of Melrose, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Mason Robert Frieler, at 7:27 a.m., July 12, 2023, at CentraCare-Melrose Hospital in Melrose.

ing at the park.

“It’s about bringing the community together, getting to know your neighbors,” Herzog said.

Activities from 5 to 7:30 p.m. include a free picnic meal, a bounce house, face painting, coloring and chalk station, Parker’s lemonade stand, pickleball demonstrations, information booths from local businesses and Albany Area Schools, lawn games, police and fire department displays and tours of the new improvements to the park.

Thanks to collaboration between the city, Jaycees and Friends of North Park – and hundreds of hours of volunteer work – a phase one park vision is a reality.

“There is a buzz in the community about what is going on here,” Haynes said.

“We are a growing community,” said Herzog, “and want people to come here to see what additions have been made.”

grown children also volunteer during the St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and Greenwald Recreation Club event.

Greenwald is a town they are happy to call home, even if a few pranks have been pulled over the years. That includes when Maynard, the goat, made the rounds when residents left home on vacation, thanks to local softball team members.

“One night, the goat was in the Wunderbar,” Al said.

As people persons, small town living is for the Wessels who live next door to the post office, across from the bank and down the street from a bar they owned, now the Greenwald Pub, where the Thursday night special is still offered.

“We enjoy life in Greenwald,” Lucy said.

He weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces and measured 21 inches long.

Big brother Caden welcomed him home.

Ryan Thomas Gill, Jr. Val Gill, of St. Joseph. Greatgrandpa is Tom Gill, Jr., of Albany.

ESTATE SALE

Grandparents are Bob and Shelly Boeckermann and Tom and Barb Frieler. Mason Robert Frieler

Monday, July 31, 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Mental Health Support Group. CentraCare-Albany Clinic, 30 Railroad Ave., Albany. For information call the clinic at 320-845-2157.

Tuesday, Aug. 1, 7 p.m. – Schanhaar-Otte Post 7050 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose.

Tuesday, Aug. 1, 7:30 p.m. – Meire Grove Band and New Ulm Municipal Band Concert. Paramount Center for the Arts, 913 West Germain St., St. Cloud.

Wednesday, Aug. 2, 1:30 p.m. – 2023 Memorial Butterfly Release. Mother of Mercy Senior Living west garden, 230 Church Ave., Albany.

Wednesday, Aug. 2, 6:30 p.m. – Albany City Council Meeting. Albany City Hall, 400 Railroad Ave., Albany.

Wednesday, Aug. 2, 7 p.m. – AA Meetings

Back to Basic, at Tutti Frutti Marketplace, 38914 County Road 186, Sauk Centre. For more information, call 218-240- 1076. Big Book, Melrose City Center, 225 First St., NE, Melrose. For more information, call 320-241-3909.

Upcoming:

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 7 p.m. – Melrose American Legion Post 101 and Auxiliary meetings. Melrose American Legion clubroom, 265 County Road 173, Melrose.

Mary Lou (Louise) Brinkman

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Friday, July 28, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Grey Eagle for Mary Lou (Louise) Brinkman who passed away peacefully July 22, surrounded by her family, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud. Interment will be in St. Bernard’s Cemetery in Ward Springs.

Visitation will be 4-8 p.m.

Thursday, July 27, and 9-9:45 a.m. July 28 at the church in Grey Eagle. Christian Mothers will pray at 4 p.m. followed by parish prayers at 7 p.m. at the church July 27.

Mary Louise Pierskalla was born Sept. 16, 1935, in Avon to Tony and Dorothy (Smith) Pierskalla. She grew up on the Pierskalla family farm near St. Wendel. Mary Lou graduated from Holdingford High School, then worked as a secretary in Minneapolis in the historic Metropolitan building.

Mary Lou married Eugene Brinkman at St. Columbkille Catholic Church May 14, 1957. She spent most of her life being a devoted wife and homemaker.

Mary Lou and Gene started their journey on a small farm south of Grey Eagle, where they welcomed their first child. Soon they moved to Mount Angel, Oregon, near Gene’s relatives. While in Oregon, the family grew, adding four more children. In 1963, they returned to Minnesota, purchasing the Brinkman family farm on Little Birch Lake. Mary Lou gave birth to seven more children in the following years. There was much to do with seldom a dull moment, and through it all Mary Lou was always a loving, caring mother. With the help of her children, Mary Lou tended a large garden, canned fruits and vegetables and made many jams and jellies. Each week she baked a dozen delicious loaves of bread. She loved to read, and most nights would read to the kids at bedtime.

Mary Lou worked at Jennie-O Foods in Melrose for 10 years, then helped her daughter, Peg, with her family day care. She was a devout Catholic her entire life and was

Leander J. “Dick”

Hollenkamp

Leander J. “Dick” Hollenkamp, 93, of Freeport, passed away peacefully July 23, 2023, at the Mother of Mercy Nursing Home in Albany.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m.

Monday, July 31, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport with the Rev. Edward Vebelun, O.S.B., officiating. Entombment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be 2-5 p.m., Sunday, July 30, at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and 10-11 a.m. July 31 at the church. Parish prayers will be at 2 p.m. July 30 at the funeral home.

Leander John Hollenkamp was born Jan. 5, 1930, in St. Rosa to Joseph, Jr., and Bernadine (Scherping) Hollenkamp. Leander served in the U.S. Army, serving in Guam as a heavy equipment operator. On Oct. 6, 1954, he was united in marriage to Dorothy Hoppe at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich. Dick farmed all of his life north of Freeport. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Freeport. Dick enjoyed fishing, especially on Kings Lake, and was an avid storyteller, embellishing the story every time he told it.

Lori K. Thomas

Lori K. Thomas, 51, of New Munich, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family July 14, 2023, from a cerebral hemorrhage at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud.

Mary Lou (Louise) Brinkman

part of the Christian Mothers at St. Bernard’s Parish in Ward Springs, then at St. Joseph’s Parish in Grey Eagle. She and Gene spent their golden years at their Little Birch Lake home, next to the family farm.

Mary Lou loved to spend time with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also liked spending time with her sisters, occasionally at casinos, which she really enjoyed.

Survivors include her

12 children, Patty (Kevin)

O’Konek of South Haven, Danny (Renee) Brinkman of Sauk Rapids, David (Joyce)

Brinkman of Grey Eagle, Darrell (Eileen) Brinkman of Little Falls, Pam (John)

Schmiesing of Avon, Margaret

“Peg” (Rick) Hellermann of Melrose, Marc (Julie) Brinkman of Grey Eagle, Mike (Krista) Brinkman of Sartell, Kathy (Jeff) Boos of Sauk Rapids, Marvin (Jody)

Brinkman of Pequot Lakes, Karen (Glen) Middendorf of Sartell, and Mary Jean (Morgan Wilson) Brinkman of Portland, Oregon; sisters

Joan Silbernick of Little Falls; Carol (Gary) Spoden of Foley, and Linda Stoermann of Avon; 38 grandchildren and 32 greatgrandchildren; and brotherin-law Philip Kostreba of Holdingford.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents; husband

Eugene “Gene” Brinkman

Nov. 15, 2015; granddaughter

Jocelyn Rae Boos; one grandson; brother Howard; sisters Judy Pierskalla, Doris Kostreba and Sandra Pierskalla; and brothers-inlaw Tom Silbernick and Ken Stoermann.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral & Cremation Services of Grey Eagle.

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Survivors include his loving wife of 68 years, Dorothy Hollenkamp of Freeport; son Guy (Lisa) Hollenkamp of Princeton; two grandchildren Logan (Megan) Hollenkamp and Alana (Justin) Bailey; three great-grandchildren Calvin Hollenkamp, Rose Hollenkamp and Emmett Bailey; and brothers Sylvester (Nettie) Hollenkamp of St. Rosa and Ronald (Beatrice) Hollenkamp of St. Rosa. Dick was preceded in death by his parents; sons Cory Hollenkamp and Cary Hollenkamp; brother Virgil Hollenkamp; and sister Marian Hallermann.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Freeport. P-30-1B

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2 p.m. Friday, July 28, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich with the Rev. Daniel Walz officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. July 28 at the church in New Munich.

Lori was born Aug. 12, 1971. She graduated from Red River High School, Grand Forks, North Dakota. Lori was

Ethan J. Gerads

Ethan J. Gerads, 16, of Albany, passed away July 21, 2023, from injuries sustained in a car accident near Freeport.

A Ma day, July 26, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with the Rev. Daniel Walz officiating and the Rev. Edward Vebelun, O.S.B., concelebrating. Interment will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation was July 25 and 10-10:45 a.m. July 26 at the Seven Dolors gathering area in Albany.

Ethan Jerome Gerads was born April 17, 2007, in Albany

John S. Rose

John S. Rose, 79, of Melrose, succumbed to Parkinson’s disease and died June 28, 2023, surrounded by his family and close family friends.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery at a later date. Military honors will be provided by the Melrose Veterans Honor Guard.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday, July 28, at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and 10-11 a.m., July 29, at the church. Parish prayers will be at 7 p.m. July 28 at the funeral home.

John Sylvester Rose was born to Jack and Christina (Rau) Rose March 29, 1944, in Freeport. He attended Sacred Heart School for his elementary education and then Melrose High School. He earned a business degree after four years at St. Cloud State College. He enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1966 and served for six years.

John married Sharon Schanhaar June 18, 1966, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose. After John completed

Gerald “Jerry”/“Fred”

Joseph Friedrichs

Gerald “Jerry” or “Fred” Friedrichs, 74, of Buffalo, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, July 19, 2023.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 2, with visitation one hour prior to the Mass, all at the Church of St. Francis Xavier School, 219 19th St. NW, Buffalo. Celebrant will be the Rev. Nathaniel Meyers. Interment in the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Buffalo.

Jerry was born Dec. 17, 1948, to Gerard and Violet (Wallin) in Melrose and spent his childhood working and playing on the family farm in Sauk Centre. After high school, Jerry joined the U.S. Army National Guard, where he served from 1966 to 1972 and became a lifetime member of the Little Sauk Legion Post 417.

Lori K. Thomas

united in marriage to James Steven Thomas Aug. 15, 1998. In 2005, Lori and Jim settled in New Munich to raise their family.

Lori worked for Trobec’s Bus Service in St. Stephen and William’s Bus Service in

Freeport, both of which she adored her student passengers, and most recently, Schmidty’s convenience store in Freeport, where she took pleasure in visiting with friends. Lori valued her faith in God and enjoyed attending Mass at Immaculate Conception Church in New Munich, where she was a member.

In her spare time, Lori liked to go target shooting with her handgun, swimming, fishing, take long walks, and anything to do with the outdoors. She was fond of traveling and had visited the 48 contiguous United States. Lori was also an avid musician and lover of music. She was often heard playing her music before being seen driving down the

street in her Trailblazer.

Lori is survived by her husband, Jim; four children Jessica (grandchild Abby), Ashley, Jimmy and Daniel (girlfriend Jewels); father Steve (Odile) Streed; brother David; sister Rachel; sistersin-law Susan and Debbie; and her special companion, Chewie.

Lori was preceded in death by her mother, Laurel Severson; father-in-law James Thomas; and mother-in-law Sandra Thomas.

Lori was a giving person with a loving heart who will be missed dearly by all who knew her. P-30-1B

Please call 320-352-6577 or stop in 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. Sauk Centre, MN

On a warm summer evening out with friends in 1970, Jerry met the love of his life, Shirley Braeger. He asked her for a dance, and the rest is history. Jerry and Shirley were married Aug. 18, 1973, making their home in St. Louis Park until their move out to Buffalo in December 1975. At their home in the country, Jerry and Shirley raised their

Ethan J.

to Jeff and Melissa (Sand) Gerads. He was an active member of Seven Dolors parish. He attended Holy

Family (K-5) and Albany Area Schools and would have been a junior this fall. Ethan enjoyed hunting, fishing, hanging with his friends and was a member of the high school trap team. He looked forward to being a farmer in the future and worked at Gill Family Dairy and G&C Cattle/Gary and Christina Geise Farm. He was hard working, reliable and took pride in everything he did. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his parents, Jeff and Melissa Gerads of Albany; sister Emma

to five rounds per week and carried a handicap of 2-4 until Parkinson’s robbed him of abilities.

Most of all John loved family activities, including camping, water-skiing, crosscountry skiing, tobogganing, roasting hot dogs and s’mores, playing cards and board games. He truly cherished times spent with his grandsons, Nicholas and Nathan.

Gerads of Avon; brother Owen Gerads at home; grandparents Joann Gerads of Freeport and Marvin and Marian Sand of Albany; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; and his dog, Bella.

Ethan was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jerome Gerads.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose. P-30-1B

John S. Rose his basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana, they moved to Columbia Heights, and for a short time John worked for JCPenney. They then moved to Albany, where he worked for Albany Mutual Telephone Association, becoming manager in 1980, holding that position until his retirement in 2006. During his time as manager, an innovative decision served to make AMTA one of the richest, per subscriber, telephone co-ops in the nation.

John lived in Albany until 1991, then moved to a home on Big Birch Lake, which remained their home until moving to Melrose in 2020.

John enjoyed sports, playing football, basketball and baseball while in high school. His favorite sport was golf. He would often play four

John was very civic minded. He was a member of the Albany Fire Department for 18 years, supported his community and served on various Albany area boards. John also served on numerous state telephone boards and committees, including president of the Minnesota Telephone Association. John was a member of the St. Rosa Lions.

John was loved by many, known for his integrity, humility and kind and caring nature. But, most of all, for his keen and witty sense of humor. He enjoyed a good card game, especially cribbage, eating salted in the shell peanuts while watching sports on TV, a good brandy Manhattan and

a beer or two with friends. He loved ice cream and Twinkies. John is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon; daughters Jeanne Zeinert (fiancé Matt Nelson) and Nancy (Terrence) Wahl; grandsons Nicholas and Nathan; brother Herman (Therese) Rose; and sisters Carol (Bob Flom) Loxtercamp and Judy (Marvin) Thielen. Preceding John in death were his parents, Jack and Christine (Rau) Rose; grandparents Herman and Theresia (Benolken) Rose and Peter and Bertha (Hageman) Rau; many aunts and uncles; and his beloved dog, Sadie. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: American Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, PO Box 61420, Staten Island, NY 10306; Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE First St. Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131; Elevate (formerly Birthline), 376 Third St. NE, Waite Park, MN 56387; or St. Mary’s School Education Endowment Fund, 320 Fifth Ave. SW, Melrose, MN 56352 Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose. P-30-1B

“Our Country is in Mourning, A Veteran Died Today.”

leading many work crews and getting dirty, in general.

Gerald “Jerry”/“Fred” Joseph Friedrichs four children and made many wonderful memories together. Jerry enjoyed playing on various teams in the Rockford men’s softball league, tending to the family’s large garden (including growing the largest tomatoes in Wright County), listening to classic country music on the deck, deer hunting with his sons, helping his buddies with construction projects and taking his kids out on the coldest winter days to ice fish.

As a 50-year member of the Laborers Local 563 Union, Jerry worked 33 hard years digging city manholes, running the jackhammer and backhoe, laying utility lines,

Upon his retirement, Jerry found the time to enjoy various hobbies he hadn’t always had the time for, including completing dozens of carpentry projects, fishing, watching NASCAR races and other sports, driving around to “supervise” local construction projects and growing even more tomatoes. He also enjoyed working on side cement and masonry projects with his best friend, attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and birthday parties and many other activities.

Jerry was a strong, humble man with a big heart, and will always be remembered for his one-liners, humor, mischievous smirk and eye twinkle, hard work ethic and great love and pride for his family.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Gerard “Bud” and Violet; his brother, Earl; mother-and father-inlaw Bernardine and Kenneth Braeger; and many other relatives.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of

50 years, Shirley; children Aaron (Debbie), Jason (Beth), Kacey (Chauncey) Neutgens and Sarah (Bryan) Trinka; 10 grandchildren Deserae (Jaden), Zachary, Austin, Jimmy, George, Hannah, Ella, Clara, Tristan and Morgan; two great-grandchildren Carter and Tommy; and many more family members and friends. Arrangements were entrusted to The Peterson Chapel in Buffalo. P-30-1B

“Our Country is in Mourning, A Veteran Died Today.”

Gerads

“Our Country is in Mourning, A Veteran Died Today.”

Leander J. “Dick” Hollenkamp

OPINION

The views expressed by our columnists are the opinions and thoughts of the author and do not reflect the opinions and views of newspaper staff and ownership.

Parks perks, now and in the past Not a village

The new campsites at the Sauk River Park in Melrose opened at noon July 14. It was much anticipated since it had been more than a year since the campsites were available with the construction of the new bridge. City staff worked hard to prepare the new sites, which include electric hookups, fire rings and picnic tables. Just getting the grass seed to grow, at each individual site, was challenging, with constant watering a must.

Eventually, the campsite area will include a renovated restroom with showers and a basketball court.

ropes. Fittingly, I suppose, we had skunks on our uniforms and the red jackets our sponsors, Ervin and Bertha Bueckers, bought for us. For the year 1976, they even bought us red, white and blue uniforms to celebrate the U.S. bicentennial, of course, with the skunk on the back.

by Carol Moorman

In Albany, I visited North Park last week, which is undergoing major renovations with the addition of pickleball courts, a nature walking trail, reflection pond, pier and dog park.

Parks are a popular draw for cities, now and in the past.

Years ago I passed down my left handed softball glove to my niece, Holly. That glove had caught its share of softballs when I played first base at the Sauk River Park softball diamond and many other diamonds around the area. That was back in the day when the Melrose diamond was close to the road, which allowed for fans to watch women’s and men’s slow-pitch softball while sitting in their vehicles. They didn’t have to walk a ways to sit on a bleacher. On tournament weekends, the campsites were filled with ball players, and their families, who pitched tents, walking back and forth to the diamond. Wednesday was women’s softball night, often with three games each night, with overflow on Friday nights. Some teams played twice in an evening. But remember we were young back then and could handle it.

Softball leagues and tournaments were a boon for the business community. When players, and often their families, came to town they maybe purchased gas or groceries and went out to eat or frequented the liquor establishments.

When I was 16, I started playing on the Bueckers Sanitary Service team. Many of us were in high school, with a few older – more experienced – women showing us the

Vanishing agriculture is lucrative for investors

Ron Branstner, Eden Valley

One of every 4 acres in Minnesota is already owned by the state, county and federal government, yet investors and government agencies target prime agricultural land and residential areas to advance costly solar and wind energy. With this, the questions begging to be asked are why not utilize the enormous amount of existing government land for these projects and why the targeting of productive agricultural land and inhabited residential areas?

The yet to be proven renewable energy experiment pits neighbor against neighbor as private property and Minnesota’s prime agricultural farmland disappears, all while wind and solar farms, towers, transmission lines and stations appear. Why does the government need more land? Why this ever-widening land grab?

Behind the enormous taxpayer expense is the lucrative business of this energy boondoggle. This movement shreds individual liberties, private property ownership and, as a bonus, destroys communities and Minnesota’s scenic landscape. These are being replaced through the implementation of environmental, social and corporate governance. ESG is a business framework to create value for the stakeholders with an end game resulting in monitoring the individual for their energy social credit score.

As an extension of the United Nations, via the Green New Deal, this construct has landed in our backyard courtesy of Gov. Tim Walz and his One Minnesota plan, a socialist program with a global agenda.

Key elements pitting neighbor against neighbor are found within public private partnerships. PPPs between the government, Minnesota utilities (investors and stakeholders) and the private landowner circumvent constitutional processes. Unfortunately, when county commissioners (Stearns) relinquish their authority to a department or agency composed of non-elected bureaucrats, your voice and vote is eliminated.

Per Stearns County administrator Michael Williams in an email to Stearns County Commissioners, “Our Environmental Services Department, as you all know, handles applications for less than 1 MW solar fields administratively. The board made the change some time ago which some might argue should not have been delegated to administration. Of course, it has nothing to do with any consulting company and we have not contracted out the process or the decision-making authority.”

Williams’ above statement confirms the Environment Services Department “handles” 1 megawatt solar fields administratively and that this responsibility was delegated/relinquished to administra-

Like me, players were dedicated to their teams. There was the Engelmeyer-sponsored team from St. Rosa, New Munich Ballroom, Bucky’s Bar in Elrosa and other Melrose business sponsored teams, like Funkys. Please excuse my memory, I can’t remember the other Melrose teams. We were highly competitive, especially in our early years; not so much as we got older. We took losses hard – drowning our sorrows with a beer or two or three – and returning the next week reenergized to win. But if we didn’t win, there was always next week, until there wasn’t.

We didn’t have fancy equipment; not even batting gloves. Our bats were often team bats in a bat bag, with a few players bringing their own bat.

I can still hear Ervin say, “Hit the ball Charlie.” Don’t ask me how I got the nickname Charlie, but Ervin is the only one who called me that.

Summer softball season meant it was time to catch up with people I only saw during that time of the year. I played so long I watched babies grow up and become softball players playing on the same team as their mom or dad.

A few years ago someone mentioned a softball reunion should be held with the women’s teams that played in the Sauk River Park. I said that would be fine if they could find someone to run around the bases for me. Hitting the ball or playing first base would be no problem, but running might be a little tricky. The legs just don’t want to run as fast as they used to – which wasn’t very fast in the first place.

My softball playing days may be gone, but fond memories remain.

More memories will be made in our renovated parks, with new amenities. And who knows – a softball may be tossed around a diamond, like years gone by.

tion, also known as non-elected bureaucrats.

Your elected officials are not being consulted in consideration for any part of the process for these projects. The transfer of authority to the ESD has yielded a lack of transparency and accountability. With no authority comes the reality your elected commissioners are not able to appropriately represent you.

Is ownership of Xcel Energy important? Owning Xcel is the second largest worldwide investment group, Vanguard Group, which is not a public utility. Being privately owned by investors, Xcel Energy enters public private partnerships with the authority to commandeer private property through the power of eminent domain. Is this land grab being facilitated through a back door?

Outside of federal consent, Walz chose to ignore the United States withdrawal from the United Nations Paris Agreement thus escalating global sustainable development goals through One Minnesota. Xcel Energy’s website expresses their support for implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It is through public private partnerships that world social and environmental governance is implemented. This is carried out at the state, regional, county, local and city levels through their comprehensive plans.

During communications while researching for this article Tom DeWeese, founder of American Policy Center, shared, “There is no science to back up these projects. They are not necessary. There is no pending environmental crisis to warrant this massive attack on liberty and property.”

At the local level, in the name of solar and wind energy for net zero carbon, is a land grab for your private property for international goals. With government facilitating and participating through an unconstitutional process, to enable globalist control, this ever-expanding project is expensive for the public, yet financially lucrative for investors – and they are coming for your property next.

Throughout local, and most of American history, the goal of most established communities was to be recognized as a city or village.

Over time, some have been abandoned but few have really voted to not be a city or village. There are incentives to being an incorporated political entity. Among them are having some control over land use inside their limits, deciding on public improvements and the availability to access fees for licenses, among them liquor licenses.

According to information in the Rev. Vincent Yzermans’ 1987 book marking the centennial of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and St. Anna, “The Shores of Pelican Lake,” those factors, as well as Prohibition and road improvements, played into St. Anna being one of the communities that has decided to not be incorporated.

St. Anna had seen some growth from its beginnings in the late 19th century through the early 20th century. In 1915, the community opted to incorporate.

Yzermans research indicated financial considerations may well have played a role in that decision. Incorporation meant it could charge for a license.

“They did so because they knew the village would realize $500 for granting a license to sell liquor,” Yzermans’ book stated.

That $500 in 1915, according to one calculation, would be slightly over $15,000 today. Prohibition (1920-1933) cut into that revenue source and affected the community. According to Yzermans, the license fees helped fund annual improvements in the community.

One improvement though was daunting. The community’s main street was part of the highway that ran from Avon to Holdingford – and it needed improvement. It was announced in 1933 that the road, then called Stearns County A No. 5, was to be reconditioned. When it was made known the community would pay for the reconditioning of 2.5 miles of the road within the city limits, St. Anna knew it would be expensive for the community. Their dilemma was they needed the road and needed it improved. Prohibition might have ended, but the sale of liquor licenses was not going to cover the improvement. With the Depression in force, money was tight.

At some point, someone asked why St. Anna had to pay for the road improvement, and why it was not a county expense. The answer was St. Anna was incorporated.

During one council meeting, the city voted to end its incorporation. There was a practical reason for doing so, according to Yzermans’ research. He quoted a St. Cloud Times article declaring, “With the village dissolved as a corporation, the entire highway from Avon to Holdingford comes under the jurisdiction of the county.”

It worked out – sort of. St. Anna ended being incorporated as a village May 4, 1933, but the road improvement did come that year. It wasn’t until October 1937 when the road, now called County Road 9, was put in. Since 1940 it has been black topped. Today, the road still exists as people drive from Holdingford to Avon through St. Anna, the town that voted to end its designation as a village.

CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY

Fatal crash July 21 in Krain Township

KRAIN TOWNSHIP – A 16-year-old Albany teen passed away after a one-vehicle crash July 21 in Krain Township.

According to the Stearns County Sheriff’s office, emergency personal responded around 10:30 a.m. to the report of a driver and his passenger trapped inside a vehicle at 248th Avenue just north of County Road 17. First responders found a heavily damaged 2007 Chevrolet Impala on its side resting against a tree. Freeport Fire and Rescue performed extraction operations to remove both occupants. The passenger, Ethan Gerads, was pronounced deceased at the scene, and the driver, Mason Geise, 15, of Freeport, was transported to the St. Cloud Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, the press release stated.

Geise reported he had been traveling south on 248th Avenue when he lost control of the vehicle, over corrected when trying to regain control, went into the ditch, rolled over and came to rest against the tree.

Also assisting at the scene were the Melrose Ambulance Service, North Air Care, Life Link, State Patrol, Centre Towing and Collins Brothers Towing.

The Minnesota State Patrol is conducting an accident reconstruction, and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.

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Annual Subscription Rates

Stearns, Todd, Douglas, Pope, & Morrison counties, $53. Elsewhere in Minnesota, $60. Elsewhere in the United States, $63.

Official Legal Newspaper for the cities of Albany, Avon, Freeport, Melrose and Holdingford; Independent School Districts 745, 738 and 740; surrounding townships.

Deadlines

The deadline for most news in The Star Post is 5 p.m. Friday. Exceptions are obituaries and reports of weekend events, which have a deadline of 10 a.m. Monday. The deadline for advertisements in The Star Post is 5 p.m. Friday, and in the Shopper and Classy Canary it is noon Wednesday.

Letters Letters to the editor are welcomed. Letters must be signed with first and last name and include address and phone number. Letters are limited 350 words. See political letters to the editor policy for additional guidelines.

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ISSN: Print: 2834-5916 Online: 2834-5924

A Peek at the Past by Herman Lensing From

The Avon City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, August 7th, 2023 at 6:30 pm at the Avon City Hall, 140 Stratford Street East, Avon, Minnesota to consider an Amendment to Chapter 90 of the Avon City Code “Parks and Recreation”. This amendment would prohibit grilling at the Avon Public Beach. The City Council will take public comment on this issue from members of the public in attendance. Written comments will also be accepted and may be submitted to the City Clerk on or before August 7th during regular business hours. Jodi Austing-Traut, Avon City Clerk/Administrator.

P-30-1B

1.

Amy Sand, Clerk P-30-1B

BOARD VACANCY- CITY OF MELROSE

The City of Melrose recognizes the importance of the input it receives from citizens through its boards and commissions. Currently there is a vacancy on the Melrose Area Development Authority (MADA). Any individual that wishes to be considered for possible appointment to the office listed above should submit their application to City Clerk Patricia Haase, 225 1st Street NE, Melrose, Minnesota, 56352 by no later than Wednesday, August 9, 2023. The applications are available at the Melrose City Center or on the city website at www.cityofmelrose.com.

P-30-1B

Notice of Application for a Livestock Feedlot Permit

OFFICIAL TITLE AND SUMMARY ORDINANCE NO. 07-20-2023-3

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 153 OF THE MELROSE CITY CODE ZONING REGULATIONS

The following Official Summary of Melrose City Code Chapter 153: Zoning Regulations, Section 1300. Regulation of Building Moves, Ordinance No. 07-20-2023-2 has been approved by the City Council of the City of Melrose, Minnesota, as clearly informing the public of the intent and effect of the Ordinance.

Melrose City Code Chapter 153: Zoning Regulations, Section 1300. Regulation of Building Moves, is hereby repealed, and in lieu of said section is substituted the following:

Section 1301 Moving Permit Required. A person must not move, or cause to be moved, a building or structure, into, within, or out of the City without first obtaining a permit to do so. Before a previously occupied building or structure may be moved into or within the City, a permit must be granted by the Council, following a public hearing and recommendation by the Commission. If a manufactured/mobile home is moved into or within a designated manufactured/mobile home park, the Zoning Officer shall issue the permit.

Section 1302. Building Requirements. Buildings, structures, and manufactured/mobile homes which are moved into or within the City, must comply with the provisions of this Section, the City Zoning Ordinance, and the State Building Code.

Section 1303. Moving Permit Application. Applications for a moving must include all of the information described in the ordinance, including a certificate of occupancy from the City Building Official that the building, structure, or manufactured/mobile home meets the requirements of the State Building Code. Section 1304. Permit Issuance. The Council or the Zoning Official may refuse to issue a moving permit if they find that the

Holdingford School Board Briefs

The Holdingford School Board held their regular meeting on July 19, 2023. Members present Evelyn Martini, Elissa Ebnet, Ed Feia, Rob Knettel, and Pat Meier. Member absent: Sarah Binek. Also attending was: Superintendent Chris Swenson, Business Manager Garrity Gerber, Secondary Principal Kevin Beehler, Adm. Assistant Linda Zapzalka, and guest Carlena Johnson. Chair Feia called the meeting to order, the pledge was recited, and the amended agenda was approved.

The meeting continued with approval of the consent agenda. Items in the consent agenda included: approval of the minutes from the June 21st School Board Meeting and Closed Meeting; approval of the schedule of bills in the amount of $460,837.42. Computer checks approved #54381 through #54538 and #30644 through #30687 in the amount of $24,177.24; approval of the electronic transfer for June 2023, $1,378,191.57; acknowledgement of the Treasurer’s Report balance per books $6,535,999.07; called for a Special Closed meeting to follow the August 16, 2023 Regular Board Meeting; hired Genell Jackson, LeAnn Ostendorf, and Georgia Slatinski for additional Summer School Staff; approve lane change for Kyle VanOverbeke from BS30 to MS10 Step 6 to be effective at the start of the 2023-2024 school year; accept the following donations: Casey’s Cash for Classrooms to Holdingford General Fund $10; Coborn’s Rewards to Elementary $165.74, HS $143.52; Lions Club to Environmental Resource $150.00; Fan Club to Musical $600 and PTA to Community Ed for Robotics $600. The Board thanked the Donors for their generosity!

Reports:

Superintendent Swenson gave an update on summer facility work. The gym painting is complete and the floor will be starting next week, the pool starting blocks have been replaced, other flooring replacements are in progress and the summer cleaning is going well. He introduced a Discipline Complaint Procedure that will need to be added to the Discipline Policy. Mr. Swenson explained as part of his goal to learn more about staff morale and retention he conducted a “Stay Survey” with staff. He presented the results of the survey to the Board. It indicated that for the most part staff enjoy the small school community atmosphere and typically only leave for career advancement or more money. Mr. Swenson informed the Board that he plans to add a Para Orientation for new staff similar to the Teacher Orientation Day and is looking at ways to recognize staff.

He reminded those members on negotiation committees to check their availability for August.

Lastly Mr. Swenson addressed the gym mural controversy and the process that was used. He asked the Board for their thoughts. The Board agreed that the process was done professionally and the history is preserved nicely on the hallway mural. They understand that some folks aren’t happy and that is unfortunate however there are a lot of folks that love the new updated look as well.

Secondary Principal Kevin Beehler reported he is getting acquainted with things and is starting to meet students. He took part in interviewing and hiring the new Paras, he is looking forward to meeting the new staff at Orientation Day, the rest of the staff on Workshop Days, and students and families at Open House.

Business Manager Garrity Gerber reported the Audit starts August 4th and he is busy preparing for it. He informed the Board that Health insurance bids are due July 26th and this is one thing the Teacher Union wanted prior to starting negotiations. Lastly Mr. Gerber reported to date twenty-five employees

requirements of this ordinance have not been met.

Section 1305. Supplemental Information. At least ten business days before the actual move is to take place, the applicant must submit to the Zoning Officer: (1) Confirmation of the proposed moving date and hours, (2) copy of the proposed building mover’s state license and an insurance certificate, (3) A signed statement from the applicant agreeing to secure the foundation, disconnect any utilities, and connect the building to its new foundation Section 1306. Building Moving Conditions. The building mover must comply with all the conditions of this ordinance, including being responsible for all damage caused by the move, complying with all applicable state laws and local ordinances, and a obtaining certificate of occupancy or a satisfactory final inspection report from the City Building Official.

Section 1307. Enforcement. This Section will be will be enforced by the Zoning Officer, the Chief of Police, and authorized agents. A printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person at the Office of the City Administrator. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and publication of this Official Title and Summary. Adopted the City Council of the City of Melrose on July 20, 2023.

ATTEST: /s/ Patricia Haase City Clerk

/s/ Joe Finken Mayor City of Melrose

P-30-1B

Notice is hereby given per Minnesota Statutes, chapter 116, that Robert and Donna Worms Farm has made an application to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency or the County of Stearns for permit to construct or expand a feedlot with a capacity of 500 animal units or more.

The existing and/or proposed feedlot will be located in the part of the NE ¼ of sec 1, T 124N, R 34W of Lake George Township, Stearns County, State of Minnesota. The existing facility consists of beef slaughter steers, dairy cows, replacement heifers, calves, and beef feeder steers for a total of 186.3 animal units; an open front heifer shed, open lots, total confinement barns, calf huts, and in ground concrete/earthen combo liquid manure storage areas (LMSA). The proposed facility will consist of the items listed above with an expansion of 530 slaughter steers with a 300’x67’ steer finishing barn and a 240’x56’x12’ in ground, concrete, underbarn LMSA. The total animal unit capacity will be 686.3 animal units.

This publication shall constitute as notice to each resident and each owner of real property within 5,000 feet of the perimeter of the proposed feedlot as required by Minnesota State Law.

Published in the Star Post, July 26, 2023.

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333

ASSUMED NAME: Pupusa St..

P-30-1B

are participating in unemployment and that is about three fourths of those eligible. He won’t know the financial impact until he has more data.

Other agenda items at the July 19th, 2023 meeting included:

Business Items:

• Rescinded adding a Media Center And Tech Specialist teaching position.

• Authorized adding a Grade V Ed Assistant Media Center/Tech Specialist position.

• Mr. Swenson explained the Discipline Policy will be amended when the Discipline Procedure is added. Approved Policy 506 Student Discipline.

• Approved Policy 515 Protection And Privacy Of Pupil Records and the revised Form 515 which includes some exceptions for release of student information.

• Mr. Gerber explained the change to free meals and that there will still be a charge for a second entree and there must be a positive balance in their meal accounts to receive a second entree.

Approved Policy 534 School Meals Policy.

• The meeting continued with the first reading of Policy 620 Credit For Learning. Mr. Swenson explained the revision to strike the weighted grade provision which was in the current policy however it wasn’t being utilized.

Personnel:

• Accepted the resignation from Food Service Employee Linda Hartung effective.

• Accepted the resignation from Custodian Taylor Runge effective.

• Approved the request for FMLA Leave for Ellen VanOverbeke.

• Approved a request for Paternity Leave for Kyle VanOverbeke.

• Mr. Swenson introduced Carlena Johnson, a new Para being hired. Hired Carlena Johnson for an Elementary Para position. The Board welcomed Ms. Johnson!

• Hired Ashley Krueger for a Secondary Para position.

• Hired Jessica Funk for an Elementary Para position.

• Hired Thomas Fussy for a 5.75 hrs/day student session days Food Service Assistant position.

• Hired Karen Kostreba for a 5.75 hrs/day student session days Food Service Assistant position.

• Hired Katie Novitzki for a 5.75 hrs/day student session days Food Service Assistant position.

• Hired Rachel Roering for a 3 hrs/day student session days Food Service Assistant position.

• Mr. Swenson explained the process used to fill this new position and recommended Jena Nelson. Hired Jena Nelson for the Media Center And Tech Specialist position at grade V of the Ed Assistant contract.

A review of the upcoming meeting dates took place.

The School Board Closed Meeting to follow this meeting is canceled.

Work Session August 2, 2023 @ 6:00 PM in the HS Meeting Room.

School Board Meeting August 16, 2023 @ 6:00 PM in the HS Meeting Room.

School Board Closed Meeting following the August 16, 2023 Board Meeting. This article is a summary of the minutes. The full text is available for public inspection at the District Office or online at http://www.isd738.org/school-board-meeting-agendasminutes. html.

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PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS IS: 510 7TH ST S, WAITE PARK, MN 56387 USA.

NAMEHOLDER(S): Rodrigo Ernesto Milla Vigil, 510 7th St. S, Waite Park, MN 56387 USA and Milla Culinary Ventures LLC, 510 7th St. S, Waite Park, MN 56387 USA.

By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath.

/s/ Rodrigo Ernesto Milla Vigil 07/20/2023 P-30-2P

CITY OF ALBANY

INTERIM ORDINANCE NO. 2023-01

PROHIBITING RETAIL SALE OF EDIBLE CANNABIS PRODUCTS AND LOWER POTENCY HEMP EDIBLES SUMMARY PUBLICATION

The purpose of this Interim Ordinance is to authorize a study related to the retail sales of recently legalized of edible cannabis products and lower potency hemp edibles. Staff will then make a recommendation to the City Council about whether the City should amend its zoning, business-licensing, or other general Code provisions related to these types of products and associated uses to better protect the residents of Albany. During the term of this Ordinance, the retail sale of edible cannabis products and lower potency hemp edibles is prohibited.

This material is a summary of the above referenced amendments. The full text of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at the office of the Albany City Clerk/Administrator.

This Ordinance was adopted by the City Council of Albany on July 19, 2023 and shall be effective upon publication. /s/ Tom Kasner, Mayor /s/ Heather Cruz, Deputy City Clerk ( S E A L )

This amendment was published in the Star Post on July 26, 2023. P-30-1B

ORDINANCE NO. 07-20-2023-1

AN ORDINANCE DECLARING A MORATORIUM ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OR OPERATION OF CANNABIS BUSINESSES IN THE CITY OF MELROSE MINNESOTA

Whereas, Minnesota Session Laws Chapter 63 (2023) (the “Act”), regulating the adult use of cannabis was adopted by the State of Minnesota on May 30, 2023.

Whereas, the Act established the Office of Cannabis Management.

Whereas, the Act directs the Office of Cannabis Management to develop model ordinances for reasonable restrictions on the time, place, and manner of the operation of a cannabis business.

Whereas, the Act permits local authorities to adopt reasonable restrictions on the time, place, and manner of the operation of a cannabis business.

Whereas, the Office of Cannabis Management has yet to develop model ordinances for reasonable restrictions on the time, place, and manner of the operation of a cannabis business.

Whereas, the Act permits local authorities to adopt an interim ordinance prohibiting the establishment or operation of cannabis businesses for the purpose of protecting the planning process and the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens

Now, Therefore, the City Council of the City of Melrose, Stearns County, Minnesota hereby ordains:

Section 1. The City Administrator, or her assignee(s) is authorized to conduct a study for the purpose of considering adoption of reasonable restrictions on the time, place, and manner of the operation of cannabis businesses.

Section 2. For the purpose of protecting the planning process and the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Melrose, the City Council declares a moratorium prohibiting the establishment or operation of cannabis businesses within the City of Melrose, Minnesota.

Section 3. The moratorium shall begin on the effective date of this Ordinance and continue until January 1, 2025.

Section 4. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage and publication according to law.

Adopted by the City Council on July 20, 2023.

Attest: /s/ Patricia Haase City Clerk Published

/s/ Joe Finken - Mayor City of Melrose

SCL North teams head to regions

Three area squads find playoff wins

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

Stearns County League

North teams New Munich, Spring Hill and Elrosa all qualified for the Region 15C Tournament with wins over the weekend. Region 15C will be hosted by Lake Henry Aug. 4 and 5, with night games in St. Martin.

New Munich 10, Greenwald 0

Jim Thull pitched a complete game in the New Munich SilverStreaks’ 10-0 seven-inning elimination game win over the Greenwald Cubs July 23 in New Munich. He allowed only four hits and walked one.

“We started putting up runs and that made it easier,” Thull said. “I throw strikes and let the defense play. I told the guys the zero in the error column looked beautiful.”

New Munich took over the game with big RBI hits. In the fourth, Brandon Holm’s three-run home run was followed by a solo shot from Caden Sand for a 9-0 lead.

“Those are immediate runs, so that was nice,” said Chad Funk, New Munich manager. “Sometimes, you

have to work hard for runs.”

Sand led New Munich with three hits, including a double, and Neal Anderson, Will Funk and Logan Funk singled.

Greenwald had doubles by Tyler Engelmeyer and Kegan Stueve and singles by Tyler Leukam and Gabe Schwieters. Brett Engelmeyer started and took the loss.

Spring Hill 10, New Munich 3

Ben Welle pitched a complete game in the Spring Hill Chargers’ 8-3 triumph over New Munich July 22 in New Munich. He went 4-for-5, hitting a double and

driving in four runs.

Devin Orbeck’s twohit day resulted in three runs. Corey Schoenberg and Dylan Gertken added two hits each. Jamie Terres doubled.

New Munich’s Holm homered and Sand, who had two hits, doubled.

Ty Reller took the loss and Sand pitched in relief. Pitchers for both teams struggled and walked a combined 14 batters.

Elrosa 6, Spring Hill 5

A Charger comeback came up short in a 6-5 loss to Elrosa in the division’s championship game July 23 in New Munich. The Char-

gers fell behind 4-1 in the first, then twice rallied to tie the game. Elrosa scored in the ninth for the win.

Orbeck had three hits. He and Ben Welle doubled.

Anthony Revermann started the game and Orbeck, who came on in the seventh, was charged with loss.

Elrosa 10, Greenwald 3

Tyler Thomas and Westin Middendorf led Greenwald with two hits each in a 10-3 loss to Elrosa July 22 in Elrosa.

Schwieters had a tworun home run while Sam Frieler, Leukam, Tyler Hoffman, Stueve and Ethan Ettel

singled. Hoffman and Ettel pitched for Greenwald.

The playoff losses ended Greenwald’s season. It was a campaign manager Doug Welle is hoping to improve on.

“They stuck together

and hustled all the time,” Doug Welle said. “A couple of plays and it might have been different. We had a good year. We didn’t have a great weekend, but I’m proud of the year and want to build from here.”

Martins win SCL South title

Lieser a walk-off hero

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

The St. Martin Martins claimed the Stearns County League South playoff title, winning 3-1 over the Lake Henry Lakers July 23 in St. Martin.

The win gave the Martins a 2-0 record in the playoffs. Both wins were nail-biters. In each, the Martins got key plays from Kyle Lieser for rallies.

Kyle Lieser singled, stole second and scored on Tanner Arceneau’s double in the first inning. The lead lasted through three innings. In the fourth, Lake Henry’s Grant Ludwig scored on Trent Wendlandt’s single to tie the game.

Ben Schroeder scored the game-winner for St. Martin in the seventh on a balk. Kyle Lieser, who walked, later scored on Brady Goebel’s double.

Lake Henry had the tying run on in the ninth before the Martins ended the game.

Goebel, Nolan Rueter, Avery Schmitz and Ben Schroeder each had two hits.

Carter Thelen earned the win, going six innings.

Tanner Arceneau pitched three frames for the save.

St. Martin 3, Richmond 2

In a 3-2 victory over the Richmond Royals July 21 in

St. Martin, only the first two batters and last three batters of the game scored. Richmond’s Kyle Budde and Dalton Thomas singled and Cole Schmitz doubled to open the game. Justin Schroeder followed with a sacrifice, giving Richmond a 2-0 lead against St. Martin

ace Scott Lieser. The Royals managed only two more hits and none after the fifth inning.

Scott Lieser pitched a complete game for the win but never pitched with the lead. Richmond’s Luke Jokela gave up a first-inning triple to Goebel and scattered singles by Bryan Schlangen, Jaylyn Arceneau and Scott Lieser across eight innings in maintaining the 2-0 lead.

“There are a lot of things we have to clean up,” Kyle Lieser said. “We are leaving way too many guys on base. It is one-throughnine. There is nobody that is really lighting it up. We are getting guys on, getting them over, but it is a matter of getting that one big twoout hit.” Richmond brought Austin Larsen to the mound to close the game and he did not record an out. Ryan Messer led off with a walk and was replaced by pinch runner Derek Koll. Pinch hitter Avery Schmitz was hit by a pitch, putting the tying run on. Kyle Lieser then ended the game with a home run to left field.

“These are the type of games we are used to playing in and we thrive,” Kyle Lieser said. “We pitch, we play great defense and we scrap together a little bit of offense. Tonight, it went our way.”

PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING

Spring Hill shortstop Eric Terres (left) watches Jamie Terres tag out Elrosa’s Blaine Fischer July 23 in the Stearns County League North Championship in New Munich. Spring Hill picked off two baserunners in the game.

PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING

Kyle Lieser (sans helmet) is mobbed by Scott Lieser (from left), Jaylyn Arceneau, Bryan Schlangen and the rest of his St. Martin Martins teammates July 21 in St. Martin. Lieser’s three-run home run gave the Martins a 3-2 win.

Jaylyn Arceneau dives back to first as Richmond first baseman Justin Schroeder applies the tag for a pickoff July 21 in St. Martin. The Martins overcame the pick-off in a 3-2 ninth inning win.

Greenwald shortstop Kegan Stueve throws to first after forcing out New Munich’s Logan Funk in the Stearns County League North elimination game July 23 in New Munich. The throw was too late for a double play.