Star Post 10-11-2023

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Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Utilizing state public safety funds Freeport council approves purchase of extrication cutter, AED

BY CAROL MOORMAN STAFF WRITER

Number 41 • Volume 134

Prost to German heritage

Melrose researching policing options ... pg. 3 HiltnerEve happy carry on legacy ... pg. 7 First Oktoberfest attoFarming Community Center a big hit ‘A Team’ has first baby boy in 2017 ... pg. 16 Gymnasts scoring with the bestgreeting ... pg. 10

BY HERMAN LENSING | STAFF WRITER from guests, said they are using There may not have been many people wearing lederhosen or speaking German Sept. 30 at the Farming Community Center in Farming, but there was plenty of authentic German food, German music and German beer at the first ever Farming Oktoberfest Eve. It was a tribute to the area’s German heritage.

Holly Roush, during a brief break

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it as a fundraiser for the community center.

Roush and others have been on the community center board since 2001, when the former Farming elementary school was converted into the center.

Oktoberfest

An extrication cutter page 3 for the Freeport Fire DeMelanie (left) and Joey Thelen laugh partment and an automated while waiting for their meal Sept. external defibrillator for 30 at Oktoberfest Eve in Farming.

They are wearing German public use will be purAlpine hats. chased using state public safety money the city of Freeport will receive in December.

COMMUNITY COVERAGE 127 YEARS Council members approved these purchases during their Sept. 26 monthly meeting, the extrication cutter at the recommendation of fire chief Andy Grieve.

Legislators, last session, passed a 2023 omnibus tax bill that included $210 million in onetime public safety aid that will be distributed Dec. 26, 2023, to cities across PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING the state. Unlike local The Tim Jarnot Polka band — Brad Savola (front, from left), Brad Loeks, Tim Jarnot, Roger Klaphake and Mel Hauck; (back from left) Van Battle, John Creasy and government aid, this aid Wayne Kuehl — entertain guests Sept. 30 at Oktoberfest Eve at the Farming Community Center in Farming. The band played a variety of old time music. cannot be used for general purposes but instead must thetosun was starting beAsused provide public to rise Monday, Commercial safety.

Contractors Company workers from Melrose were inThe of Freeport side thecity Lisa’s On Main building working on securing will $29,844. thereceive west wall.

PHOTO BY CAROL MOORMAN Grieve told the council the new three-piece extrication equipment is battery operated, with a “lot more Melrose Welcomes You cutting force.” Funding from the grant will be used sign a collaboration to purchase a cutter, one of the three pieces, which

BY HERMAN LENSING Grieve estimated would STAFF WRITER cost $15,000.

A motion was made to purchase the cutter and A Melrose Welcomes also an AED for placement You sign greets people in Freeport. traveling down County In other council news: Road 13 toward main street.

MELROSE — —Approved an Oct. On the back side are three Candidates for Mel31 public hearing, during murals reflecting the city’s rose School District the council’s monthly motto — Strong • Diverse • 740 School Board meeting, on the final Connected. will answer prepared plat for Welle Addition Close to 120 people questions and discuss Four. The council also attended an unveiling Sept. issues during a Meet awarded low bidder R.L. 29. the Candidates Night Larson, Inc., with a bid “A ribbon cutting cerat 7 p.m. Thursday, PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING of $506,947.63, the Welle emony marks an important Chris Barron (front, from left) and Dottie Pallansch, Melrose Area Arts Council members; Ahna Oct. 12, at the MelAddition Four lift station milestone for city life, a Matt, artist; Mary Loecken, MAAC; Joyce Westendorf, MAAC and artist; Barb Dettler, MAAC and rose City Center, 225 and sewer project, as the business or an organizaartist; and Mary Johnson, Eileen Maus and Liz Pohlmann, MAAC; (back, from left) Travis Frieler, First St. NE, Melrose. city moves forward with tion,” said Joelene Wieling, sign architect and Melrose City Council member; Ken Hinnenkamp, MAAC; Sheila Hellermann, Candidates parthis housing development Melrose Area Chamber Melrose community development director; Isaac Barten, Melrose Area Chamber of Commerce ticipating include on the south side of town. of Commerce executive and Melrose Lions; and Joelene Wieling, chamber of commerce executive director and city Keith Fischer, Alan —Delores Notch, director. “We have official- council member gather for the ribbon cutting of the Melrose Welcomes You sign Sept. 29 Schulzetenberg, Eric in Melrose. The sign was the first project for the MAAC as they collaborated with the city of Freeport Senior Center ly (unveiled) the beautiful Seanger and Allen Melrose, the Melrose Lions and Melrose businesses. manager, said it has been a sign. It serves to celebrate Wieling. They are runbusy year with 74 bookthe hard work that has gone ning for a seat vacated ings so far. She notified Enterprise constructed the give-up attitude. When they for the back of the sign. into making it possible.” by first term school the council that she and two-sided sign. faced hurdles, they worked Artwork by Barb Dettler Most of that work, it board member Becky husband Alcuin will conThe MAAC was formed to get over them,” said features the Sauk River was acknowledged, was Klassen who moved tinue doing the manager in 2021 and members Sheila Hellermann, Melrose and a heart held by many because of the Melrose out of the school diswork during the week but decided their first project community development hands. Ahna Matt’s mural Area Arts Council, who trict. The winner will starting Jan. 1, 2024, they collaborated with the city of would be a sign welcoming director. “We (the city) are highlights historical peocomplete Klassen’s would not do the weekproud partners on this proj- ple and eras in Melrose.

Melrose, Melrose Lions and people to Melrose. term, which ends Jan. end work. The council is “It was Mary Scherer ect. It’s a beautiful sign.”

Joyce Westendorf’s artwork other businesses. Liz Pohl6, 2025. looking for someone to Hellermann recognized shows a family looking mann, MAAC chairperson, Loecken’s idea to come up The candidates manage the senior center the Melrose Lions “for over the landscape. said the Melrose Feed Mill with an arts council, and it night is open to the on weekends. was Mary’s idea to have the picking it (the sign project) “We have three beauticontributed the land; the public and sponsored “Maybe every one of first project as the Melrose up and moving it forward. ful artists producing three city helped with landscapby the Melrose Area you wants to take turns,” welcome sign,” Pohlmann We are here today because beautiful works of art in ing, lighting, permits and Women of Today she said to the council. of the Lions.” order to commemorate the zoning issues; the Melrose said. to inform Melrose —Reappointed Jim It was a two-year projThe MAAC worked Melrose motto,” Pohlmann Lions laid the concrete School District votHemker to the economic with local artists for desaid. foundation and erected the ect. ers before the Nov. 7 development suthority “They are a determined signs on three murals. From stone pillars and contribspecial election. board. group. They believed in this various submissions, they uted financial assistance Sign page 2 project and had a neverselected three works of art and Sign Lava and CAP

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PUBLIC NOTICES City of Albany Hydrant Flushing Notice ................................ pg. 11 Melrose Area Public School Notice........................................ pg. 11 Albany School Baord Meeting Agenda, Oct. 11 .................... pg. 11 City of Albany Advertisement for Bids .................................. pg. 11 City of Freeport Notice.......................................................... pg. 11 City of Albany Summary Financial Statement ........................ pg. 7 City of Holdingford Summary Financial Statement .............. pg. 10 Holdingford School Notice of General Election ....................... pg. 7

Melrose school board Meet the Candidates Night Oct. 12

OBITUARIES page 4 Mary Ann C. Arnzen Robert F. Havard Robert J. Hiltner Michael D. Ogle Charlene S. Ohmann Raymond A. Pintok Melvin B. Pundsack Lydia R. Schulzetenberg Allan A. Warzecha

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THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | Page 3

OBITUARIES

Oktoberfest from front

Melvin B. Pundsack

Until 1998, the building was an elementary school in the Albany school district.

“It’s now the Farming Township Hall, and families can rent it for gatherings,” she said. “The Albany gymnastics started here. They rented the facility and were able to get the program off the ground.”

As with any building, it has to be maintained. That was the purpose of the Oktoberfest Eve celebration.

“Tom Holthaus, a board member, came up with the idea,” Roush said. “This will help with roof and floor repairs.”

The evening featured the Tim Jarnot Polka band, an eight-piece band playing polkas, waltzes and German drinking songs. There was a dining area for guests.

“It’s a sit down meal, with linen tablecloths, plates, glasses, no paper products,” Roush said. “There are homemade desserts.”

More than 160 people pre registered and they had walk-ins, Roush said, with around 170 served.

From the kitchen, came plates of wienerschnitzel, brats, spatzle, blaukraut, kraut and rolls. Desserts of apple strudel or Black Forest cake were offered later. At the bar people had their choice of beverages, including German beer.

PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING “Everything is from local businesses,” Roush said. Roger Rothstein turns a piece of schnitzel being fried for the By evening’s end there was already talk of making Sept. 30 Oktoberfest Eve meal in Farming. The meal was a fundOktoberfest Eve an annual event. raiser for the Farming Community Center.

Mass of Christian burial, a celebration of life, for Melvin Bernard Pundsack, 89, of St. Francis, was Oct. 9 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, with interment in the parish cemetery.

Melvin passed away Oct. 3, 2023, at the Melrose Care Center in Melrose, surrounded by his loving family.

Melvin Bernard Pundsack was born July 11, 1934, in Krain Township, Stearns County, to Joseph and Theresa (Ostendorf) Pundsack. He married Rose Mary Beste June 3, 1963, at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany. Together, they took over his father’s dairy farm and raised seven children.

He enjoyed working the land and taking care of the animals. He was proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Melvin’s hobbies were fishing, word finds, watching game shows like the “The Price is Right” and “Wheel of Fortune” and playing cards with family and friends.

Melvin is survived by his wife Rose Mary (Beste) Pundsack; seven children Keith (Roxane) Pundsack of St. Francis, Linda (Fred) Arnzen of St. Rosa, Greg (Karen) Pundsack of Farming,

Melvin B. Pundsack

Roy (Paul) Larsen of Farmington, Corey (Mariela) Pundsack of Melrose; Philip (Bill) Pundsack of San Francisco, California; and Steven (Katie) Pundsack of Greenfield, Wisconsin; 14 grandchildren, seven greatgrandchildren; and sisters Irene, Lorraine and Florence.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Theresa Pundsack; and brothers and sisters Alfred Pundsack, Regina Dobmeier, Walter Pundsack, Richard Pundsack, Alvin Pundsack, Mildred Pundsack and John Pundsack.

Many thanks to the Melrose Care Center staff for taking care of Melvin.

Arrangements are by Miller-Carlin Funeral Homes in Albany.

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Raymond A. Pintok Eucharist Christian Burial for Raymond “Ray” Anthony Pintok, 89, of Holdingfold, will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, Oct.12, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church with the Rev. Virgil Helmin officiating. Visitation will be 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, OBITUARY Oct. 11, at the church and one hour prior to the service.

Interment will be in the parish relatives and friends. four airplanes throughout Allan A. Warzecha cemetery with full military He was preceded in their marriage.

Allan had Allan A. Warzecha, 85, honors. death by his wife, Donna, a great passion for flying. of Holdingford, passed away Raymond passed away March 3, 2021; his parents, They attended many fl y-in peacefully of natural causes Oct. 4, 2023, at Quiet Oaks Sally and Stanley Warzecha; breakfasts and took many surrounded by his family, Hospice House surrounded by sisters Lucille Skroch, Cecelia cross-country trips in their Oct. 6, 2023, in the home his loving family.

Grebinoski and Jeannette airplane over the years.

He where he was born, built by Ray was a lifelong Fautsch and brothers Othmar enjoyed taking people for his parents on land purchased member of Our Lady of Mount and Leonard Warzecha. rides in his airplane and by his great-grandfather in Carmel Catholic Church in As his health declined was known for doing stunts, 1888 after he immigrated to Opole.

He served as an altar in the last few years, the especially for laughs. Donna Minnesota from Poland. boy from ages 6-14 and was family is grateful for the and he loved traveling and An open house an usher in his adult years. His wonderful care he received took many family road trips celebration of life will be faith was an important aspect throughout the United States. from all of his providers at Allan A. Warzecha from noon-5 p.m., Saturday, of his life.

Ray, the sixth of CentraCare, including Dr. Al, known as “Woody” Oct. 28, at the Holdingford eight children, was born Jan. Nee, Dr. Cowardin, nurse by some, was a beloved themselves at no charge Legion in Holdingford. A 16, 1934, to the late Joseph and Joyce and the rest of the member of the community. graveside service will be at St. to them. He was a natural Constance (Warzecka) Pintok nephrology team, Amy Al’s door was always open, Hedwig’s Cemetery at a later engineer, finding creative on the family farm in Opole.

Kramer, APRN,CNP., Dr. and he had frequent drop-in ways to make anything he date.

He attended Our Lady of Kern, the cardiology team at visitors.

He loved spending needed to overcome any Allan Alois Warzecha Mount Carmel Catholic School CentraCare, Dr. Abigael Luke time with his family, challenge.

He was a frugal was born Oct. 27, 1937, in and all of his care team at St. in his elementary years and especially his children, man and had a knack for Holdingford to Stanley and graduated from Holdingfold Cloud Hospital, especially grandchildren and greatSally (Kuklok) Warzecha. He creating useful tools out of Bre, Kathie and Sammi, who High School in 1951. Ray grandchildren. He was a found objects. His current grew up in Holdingford and had a passion for sports in project was rebuilding a 1959 humble man with a quiet faith were there toward the end. graduated from Holdingford high school. He participated Thank you to the Holdingford and will be deeply missed by High School in 1955. Allan’s Aeronca Champion airplane, in football and baseball, Fire and Rescue Squad, many. father passed away at a young which he was very proud of achieving All-Conference in Mayo Clinic Ambulance He is survived by his and close to completing. age, and Al stayed at home football. Ray was an enthusiast and the Stearns County daughters, Karen Knight Al had a great sense of to help his mother on the Sheriff’s Office who assisted of the Vikings and Twins. After (Greg) of Litchfield, Diane humor and loved playing farm and continued living high school, he worked on a in Dad’s last trip to the Warzecha of Menlo Park, practical jokes. He enjoyed on the family farm after his hospital and the Mayo Clinic shipping boat on the Great California, Kim (Wayne) marriage to Donna Determan animals, tools, attending Lakes, At age 18 he enlisted Ambulance service who Maciejewski of Avon, auctions and collecting June 17, 1967. He served in in the Army. He trained at Fort carefully and compassionately and Kathy Warzecha Cockshutt tractors. He loved the National Guard for six Knox, Kentucky, and served brought Dad home for his years, and he then owned and polka music, even learning to of Holdingford; seven his country in active combat last time.

A special thank grandchildren Kayleigh (TJ) operated Warzecha Plumbing play the button box and piano from 1952-1954. Ray was a you to Stephanie, RN, of Vernon of Casper, Wyoming, accordion by ear.

He looked & Heating until 2019 when he decorated combat gunner tank CentraCare Hospice, for her retired due to health concerns. forward to attending as many Jeremy (Katie) Lewerenz of commander veteran of the compassionate support and Mora, Arielle (Josh) Johnson live polka music events as he Al provided plumbing and care at the end of Allan’s life. Korean War in the Seventh could over the years. Walking of Darwin, Kalin Volinkaty heating services to many Infantry Division. He was Al’s family would like of Darwin, Crystal Czech into his house and shop, you in his community and was honored with two Bronze the community to know (Nat) of Little Falls, Rachel were guaranteed to hear polka known for his quality work Stars, a National Defense Maciejewski of Sauk Rapids, how grateful they are to all music playing over KASM and making his own duct Service Medal, a United of you for the visits, phone and Garrett (Linda) Warzecha work for heating systems. He radio. He also loved spending Nations Service Medal, a calls, homemade treats and of Phoenix, Arizona; six time in his shop, which would often respond to lateKorean Cross Medal and a friendship over the years. great-grandchildren Cannen, was an “organized mess,” night calls to fix furnaces in Good Conduct Medal. He was Arrangements are with Aurora, Easton, Amelia, yet Al knew exactly where the middle of the winter and honorably discharged at Camp Benson Funeral Home in St. Piper and Charlie. He is everything was located. phone calls from customers Carson, Colorado, as sergeant Cloud. also survived by his beloved Al obtained his pilot’s asking for a service call.

E-5. Ray was a patriotic person P-41-1P dog, Buster, and many other license in 1965 from Whitney Up until two weeks ago, he who continued to support and generously provided over the Memorial Airport, which “Our Country is in Mourning, A Veteran Died Today.” participate in several veterans was the original airport in St. phone guidance and taught groups and causes throughout Cloud.

Donna and he owned customers how to fix an issue his life. He was a member of the Catholic War Veterans of Opole and American Legion Post 642 of Bowlus. Ray stated his proudest accomplishment TH 215 East Main Street • Melrose, MN 56352 • 320-256-3623 was serving the military in the Full Service Automotive Korean War and assisting the South Koreans in gaining back Saturday, Oct 14th We Carry Efco their freedom.

We Service 6 pm -10 pm • Chain Saws Ray married the love of All Brands of Chainsaws his life, Bernadette Kulas, • Trimmers Meadowlark June 25, 1956, at Immaculate • Mowers les Chain Saning Country Club Conception Church in St. & Sharpe

Jackie (left) and Will Jones salute Sept. 30 during Oktoberfest Callie (from left), Greg and Bonnie Holthaus enjoy their OktoEve at the Farming Community Center in Farming. Guests were berfest Eve meal Sept. 30 at the Farming Community Center asked to join in salutes and in singing “Happy Birthday.” in Farming. They were among the close to 170 guests who attended the first ever event.

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Raymond A. Pintok

Anna. They shared 67 years of marriage and were blessed with three daughters. Family was very important to Ray. Spending time with them was his greatest joy. Ray and Bernie first lived in St. Paul.

Ray worked at Archer Daniels Grain Elevator while living there. In 1957, Ray and Bernie moved to Opole and settled on a farm where they resided for the rest of their years together. Ray had a natural desire for farming and was an avid farmer. His family especially admired his strong work ethic. Ray’s pastimes included watching “Nightline News,” listening to KASM radio in Albany, polka music, along with old-time dancing, planting crops on the farm and riding around the farm on his golf cart watching his fields prosper.

Ray will lovingly be remembered as a kind person with a generous heart who always had a smile to greet you, along with a wonderful gift to genuinely listen. Faith, family, country patriotism and hardworking ethic were his attributes.

To carry on his memory are his beloved wife, Bernie; daughters Cynthia Neis, Roberta (Mark) Anderson and Paula (David) PintokMergen; grandsons Ryan (Sarah) Mergen, Tyler (Deepa) Mergen and Andrew Mergen; five great-grandsons; sister Marcella (Charles) Cichon; sister-in law MaDonna Nentl; and many nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; son-inlaw Donald Neis; siblings Appolonia, Emil, Rita, Valeria, Angeline and Annette; brotherin-law Daniel Kulas; nephews and friends.

Our heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who enhanced a better quality of life for Ray. May he rest in eternal peace.

Caring for Raymond and his family is the Shelley Funeral Chapel in Little Falls.

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

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OBITUARIES

Page 4 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | THE STAR POST

Michael D. Ogle

Mary Ann C. Arnzen, 90, of Melrose, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, Oct. 3, 2023, at her home in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial was Oct. 10 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating.

Interment was in the parish cemetery.

Mary Ann C. Arnzen Mary Ann Catherine Vogel was born July 29, 1933, Zakrajshek of Sartell, Kenny in Melrose to Joseph C. and Catherine (Poepping) Vogel. (Pat) Arnzen of Sauk Centre, She graduated from Melrose Brian Arnzen of Avon and Brenda (Chad) Heitschmidt High School and worked at the Melrose Hotel and Chick’s of Princeton; seven Supper Club. She was united grandchildren Eric, Corey, in marriage to Elmer Arnzen Morgan, Devin, Kali, Brittany Nov. 27, 1954, at St. Boniface and Dalton; five greatCatholic Church in Melrose. grandchildren Braxton, Jayde, Raegan, Krew and Claire; and Mary Ann was primarily a homemaker while her children brother Tom (Marlene) Vogel of Sartell. were young but later also Mary Ann was preceded worked at Pallansch Grocery. in death by her husband, She was a member of Elmer Arnzen May 11, 2013; St. Mary’s Catholic Church parents; son Kevin Arnzen in Melrose, where she served as a volunteer greeter in 1966; granddaughter Angela; brothers and sisters and kitchen helper, was a Loretta Kortan, Roman Vogel, Christian Mothers member Leander Vogel, Warner Vogel, and was a board member and volunteer at the Melrose Ervin Vogel, Elmer Vogel, Joseph Vogel, Eugene Vogel Historical Society for many and Lorraine Gangl; and years. Mary Ann enjoyed infant sister Viola Vogel. reading, working crossword Arrangements were made puzzles, watching sports on with Patton-Schad Funeral TV and feeding the birds. & Cremation Services of Survivors include her Melrose.

PH-41-1B children, Sandy (Mike)

Lydia R. Schulzetenberg Lydia Rose Schulzetenberg left us peacefully Oct. 4, 2023, at the age of 100, at the CentraCare Care Center in Melrose.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 11, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Melrose with the Rev. Marvin Enneking officiating.

Interment will be in the parish cemetery.

Visitation was from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 10 at Patton-Schad Funeral Home in Melrose and from 10-11 a.m. Oct. 11 at the church. Parish prayers were 7 p.m. Oct. 10 at the funeral home.

Lydia Rose Marthaler was born Feb. 18, 1923, in Meire Grove. She was the youngest of nine children and the last remaining family member of the Simon and Rose (Schwegman) Marthaler family. She married Roman Anthony Schulzetenberg Oct. 14, 1947, in Melrose where they raised four children.

Lydia is fondly remembered for the love and care she showed to each family member. She created a strong family by providing a place to gather and share good times. Her amazing meals and generous love fed our hearts. Lydia was an excellent bridge player and was often in more than one club at the same time. She was a topnotch seamstress having made much of her daughters’ clothing in their early years.

Before marrying Roman, Lydia worked for the Melrose Beacon newspaper as the society editor for two years.

Roman and she traveled far

Michael D. “Mike” Ogle, 82, of Melrose, passed away peacefully Oct. 3, 2023, at the Estates of Roseville in Roseville.

A celebration of life will be from 1-3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Madelia American Legion in Madelia.

A private family inurnment will be held at a later date.

Michael Dean Ogle was born April 15, 1941, in Madelia, to George and Theresa (Starkey) Ogle.

He graduated from high school and served in the U.S. Navy. Michael was united in marriage to Charlene Haugen Jan. 11, 1992, and

Michael D. Ogle

they were blessed with 21 years of married life together.

Mike was known to be a prankster and was always quite mischievous. He had a certain grin on his face that led you to believe he was up

Robert F. “Bob” Havard Robert F. “Bob” Havard, 81, of Albany, went to join our Lord Oct. 1, 2023, at the St. Cloud Hospital in St. Cloud.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial was Oct. 9 at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Albany with the Rev. Edward Vebelun, O.S.B., officiating. Inurnment will be in the parish cemetery at a later date.

Robert Francis Havard was born March 24, 1942, in Rock Rapids, Iowa, to Robert and Cordelia Havard. He grew up in Salem, South Dakota, and attended 12 years at St. Mary’s Catholic School. He attended Dakota State College in Madison, South Dakota, then known as General Beadle State College, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial arts.

Bob met Connie Bousfield in college and the couple married Aug. 21, 1965, at St. Mary’s in Salem, South Dakota. Later, Bob earned a

Charlene S. Ohmann

Charlene S. Ohmann Lydia R. Schulzetenberg passed away in the morning hours of Oct. 1, 2023, with the and wide and enjoyed life to hearts and light of her family the fullest. nearby. She was 93.

She is survived by her A Mass of Christian children, James (Anita Gille) Burial was Oct. 9 at St. Schulzetenberg of Duluth, Andrew’s Catholic Church Joyce (Steve) Grong of Gary, in Greenwald with the Rev. South Dakota, Renee Marchel Marvin Enneking officiating. of Brainerd and Lea (Neal) Interment was in the parish Borgerding of Freeport; 10 cemetery. grandchildren Mara, Ben, Charlene was the Will, Paul, Evan, Aron “AJ”, sixth child born to Leo and Tyler, Courtney, Austin Carrie (Nathe) Schwieters and Alex; and eight greatin Greenwald, a town she grandchildren Josie, Kalli, loved and served for most Kendra, Paxton, Jameson, of her life. Charlene met her Nora, Allison, Blake and one husband, Jackie Ohmann, on the way. a returning WWII Navy Lydia was preceded in veteran, whom she wed in death by her husband, Roman, August 1950. Together they on April 18, 2006; her parents, had 11 children.

Simon and Rose; and her Charlene was a dedicated siblings, John, Albert, Alois, member of St. Andrew’s Ervin, Lawrence, Edwina Church in Greenwald, where Meyer, Gilbert and Mayme she sat with her children close Imdieke. to the front altar, always on The family thanks the the west side, during Sunday many friends and relatives Mass, while listening to who visited Lydia at Pine Jackie’s melodic tenor voice Villa over the last 3.5 years coming from the choir loft. and especially the staff and volunteers of Melrose CentraCare Care Center and CentraCare Hospice for their Robert J. Hiltner compassionate care of Lydia.

Robert “Bob” Joseph Arrangements were made Hiltner passed away with Patton-Schad Funeral peacefully Sept. 30, 2023, & Cremation Services of after a long, courageous battle P-41-1B Melrose. with advanced Parkinson’s disease.

Bob was born Dec. 2, 1949, in Melrose to Lawrence P. and Rose Marie (Moening) Hiltner. He grew up in Freeport and graduated from Melrose High School in 1967, where he fondly remembered playing and winning the baseball consolation championship in the Minnesota State High School ALBANY FREEPORT tournament. After high school, HARVEST CHURCH Bob attended St. Cloud State OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN CHURCH 338 Main St. W. 840 Lake Ave University and the University 320-836-2997 320-845-2405 of Minnesota. He spent most harvestchurchfreeport.org oursaviorslutheranalbany.org of his career in the hospitality and sales industry in the Twin Cities before retiring to AVON MELROSE Foxboro, Wisconsin, and later, AVON COMMUNITY CHURCH BIRCH HILLS COMMUNITY Lino Lakes.

204 Avon Ave. N CHURCH Bob was an avid 320-356-9001 225 1st St. NE, (City Center) outdoorsman and expert avoncommunitychurch.org 320-429-2440 waterfowler. He spent birchhillscommunitychurch.org countless hours setting duck HOLDINGFORD decoys each fall and sitting If you would like parishioners to see in a blind with his flat-coat COMMUNITY COUNTRY CHURCH retrievers, pheasant hunting, your church here, please contact Across from school deer hunting, camping and Robin at 320-351-7837 or 320-746-0005 fishing — all with family communitycountrychurch.org robin.b@star-pubs.com and good friends. Bob also

daughters LeRae (Doug) Sanders and Lisa Hopkins; grandchildren Lyndsy, Kendra, Kacee, Anna, Ozo, Elyssa, Shaiana, Brayden and Ricky; great-grandchildren Jayce, Theo, Julian and Thomas; brother Bill Ogle of Lake City; sister Theresa Curry of St. James; and many nieces and nephews who grew up with his humor.

Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Charlene Ogle March 7, 2013; parents; and many brothers and sisters.

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

homes. He did carpentry projects in the area for several years. Bob was very proud to teach many cabinet shops and carpentry owners in the area.

Bob grew up hunting pheasants and loved duck, goose and deer hunting. He also enjoyed open water and ice fishing. He could be found watching any football games and talking about playing ball in high school and college.

He was an avid gardener and preserved many tomato products. Cooking was his favorite and making stir fry dishes and soups were his specialties. He also made banana bread and loved giving loaves as gifts. He was a great problem solver in building and remodeling and loved playing cards too.

He was a very optimistic person and a man of faith.

He was a member of Seven Dolors Parish in Albany and served on the committee for the Senior Center in Albany.

His favorite color was green and always said, “I want

green.” Also, he was very fond of coffee and would enjoy several cups every day.

Survivors include his loving wife of 58 years, Connie Havard of Albany; children Karen (Grant) Jansons of Elk River, Kevin of Belle Plaine and Kristen (Kevin) Schauer of Glencoe; granddaughters, known as “grandgirls,” Ally Jansons, Paige Jansons, Katrina Simonette, Naomi Barnes, Harmony Jansons and Elsie Joy Schauer; siblings James (Sandy) Havard of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Mary Havard of Minneapolis; and many nieces and nephews Robert was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Jerry Havard, Ronald and Patricia Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite local charity.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, neighbors and friends near and far, all felt her tender and kind heart.

She faithfully kept others in her light. Her unfailing faith in goodness was guided by her deep and vigilant faith in her God. She exemplified that which we want to see in others.

Charlene is survived Charlene S. Ohmann by her children, Peg (Paul) As a young woman, Charlene Mercer of Long Lake, Pat began her career working (Bruce) Milbrett of Forest for the United States Postal Lake, John (Pam) of Wasilla, Service in 1950. After 38 Alaska, Susan Keen of years of dedicated service, Annandale, Virginia, Lisa Charlene retired as postmaster (Joseph) Krause of Corvallis, of the Greenwald post office Oregon, Laurie (Doug) Schley where she greeted townsfolk of Mounds View, Steven every day.

(Lisa) of Ham Lake, Michael Charlene will be of Lino Lakes, Tina (Angus) known for her capacity to Rowe of Zagreb, Croatia, love and the deep empathy and Sarah (Graham Leonard) she extended to her wide Sommers of Reno, Nevada. motherly, grandmotherly Her survivors also include and neighborly circles. She 22 grandchildren, 21 greatnot only cared deeply for grandchildren, her sister, Joan her family, but also for those (Jerry) Ehresmann, sisters-inwho came into her life. Her law Gloria Ohmann and Janet

(John) Haas, brother-in-law the Rev. Daniel Ohmann; and hundreds of nieces and nephews.

Charlene was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jackie; their daughter, Kate; her parents, Leo and Carrie Schwieters; her parentsin-law, John and Elizabeth Ohmann; brothers Herbert and Anthony; and sisters Loretta Meyer, Dolores Wehlage, Sally Uphoff and Jeanette Barten.

Charlene’s family deeply appreciates the caring staff at Pine Haven for their kindness and care and the companionship she received from her fellow residents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name can be sent to St. John’s-St. Andrew’s Catholic School in Greenwald to continue her legacy of supporting primary education.

Arrangements were made with Patton-Schad Funeral and Cremation Services of Melrose.

with family and friends over a good meal, fine glass of wine and occasional cigar. He will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, enjoyable conversation and being a good friend to all.

Bob is survived by his three children, daughter Andrea (Manuel) Garcia of Valencia, Spain, and twin sons Michael (Kari) Hiltner of Waconia and Reed (Kirsti) Hiltner of Centerville; his children’s mother and his former wife, Cheryl (Salk) Ellingson of St. Cloud; grandchildren Marcos, Emma, Owen, Emmett, Isla, Henrik and Kaija. Brothers and sisters include John Hiltner of Hickory Hills, Illinois, Judy (Dave) Stueve of Albany, Katie (Steven) Peschel of Victoria, Louie Hiltner of Wayzata, Darlene (Dennis) Gruenke of Kerrick and Tom (Pat) Hiltner of Freeport; and sisters-in-law Rita Hiltner of Circle Pines and Amy Hiltner of Richmond.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Daniel Hiltner and Paul Hiltner and sister-in-law Terese Hiltner.

There will be a private inurnment for family

Saturday, Oct. 14, at Sacred Heart Parish Cemetery in Freeport. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life from 12:30-4 p.m. Oct. 14 at The Park Event Center, 500 Division St., Waite Park.

Lunch will be served.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Parkinson’s Disease Research in the Neurology Fund, c/o University of Minnesota Foundation, 200 Oak St. SE, Suite 500, Minneapolis MN, 55455-2010 or the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department, 7401 Gunflint Trail, Grand Marais, MN 55604.

Bob requested his favorite poem be shared in his obituary.

The Hunter

by Ogden Nash The hunter crouches in his blind ‘Neath camouflage of every kind.

And conjures up a quacking noise To lend allure to his decoys.

This grown-up man, with pluck and luck, Is hoping to outwit a duck.

Robert F. “Bob” Havard

master’s degree in industrial education from Bemidji State University in Bemidji.

Robert taught industrial arts in Humboldt, South Dakota, then moved to Cosmos and in 1970, moved to Albany. He taught at the Albany Area Schools for 29 years, teaching mainly industrial arts and later social studies and physical education. After retiring from teaching, he was owner/operator of Havard Construction in Albany. Bob was proud of constructing the family home and two other

Robert J. Hiltner

Join Us in Worship

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to something.

He was a family man who loved helping family in any way he could. Mike was a loving husband to Char, father, grandfather and brother. He enjoyed traveling to see relatives from Tennessee to California, and was a Minnesota Vikings fan through and through. Mike was a proud member of the Legionnaires for 65 years.

Michael is survived by his children, sons Jim Ogle (Lindsay Bass) of Stillwater and Dan Roberts; step-

enjoyed golfing, watching and attending sporting events, and was a dedicated Gophers, Twins and Vikings fan.

His favorite place was the Gunflint Trail in Minnesota’s northwoods for annual Thanksgiving dinners with his family and friends and where he spent many years walleye fishing on Saganaga and Seagull lakes, including with his lifelong best friend, Ron Berg, with whom he also shared a passion for gourmet cooking and duck hunting.

He later enjoyed spending Christmas holidays along the North Shore of Lake Superior with his children and grandchildren. Bob genuinely enjoyed socializing

LOOKING FOR OBITS? • www.pattonschad.com

See our online Obituaries and Guestbook

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Mary Ann C. Arnzen

OPINION

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | Page 5

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.

The second child

When Hallie graduated two years ago, we not admitting culpability for. Rumor has it, set the baby scrapbook I made for her among it was a cat. The car’s check-engine light peher certificates, awards and diploma. As Hallie riodically comes on. And this past week the turned the pages of her book, little sister Katefront driver’s side door no longer opens from lyn asked for her baby book. the inside. We’ve talked a few times about I didn’t find hers on the bookshelf, nor in upgrading Katelyn’s car before she goes to the crate of photo albums. I wrinkled my brow. college next year, and brought up that topic “Where would it have gone?” I wondered, until again as she climbed over her passenger seat Katelyn asked if I even made one for her. to get out of her car. And then again as she The plight of the second child — or the settled on rolling her window down, opening third or the fourth. No baby book for Katelyn. her door using the outside handle, and then Katelyn graduates from high school next The Farmers Daughter rolling her window back up. She’s hoping spring; I’ve devoted the past few weeks to her for, as she argues, a much-deserved upgrade.

By Sonya Hoffarth baby book, grateful to discover I had taken Ryan examined the rust, and then discovered enough pictures of her as a baby to create a a replacement handle on Amazon for $12. book. She keeps reminding me, however, that it is quite He’s pretty sure he can repair the door handle. unfair that Hallie gets to be in her baby book, but she is On Friday morning, students streamed into my not included in Hallie’s. I give her my stink eye. classroom for an early morning National Honor Society This isn’t the first time Katelyn has felt like a forgotmeeting. As they arrived, with darkness and a bit of rain ten child. She needed her birth certificate after passing her blanketing Albany, one told another that his headlight driving test. We couldn’t find hers, and then recalled for was burnt out. Another student announced she had been some reason, we never received hers. We claimed Hallie’s pulled over the week before with a burned out headlight. had just been sent to us and we had expected the same for The next student to arrive lamented her windshield wipers Katelyn. Katelyn gave us the stink eye — and had to wait were not working well, and then they started comparing a week for her birth certificate to be issued. notes about their check engine lights. They decided if it’s Once she finally had her driver’s license, Katelyn was just on, that’s fine. It’s always on anyway. If it’s blinking, less than thrilled about the hand-me-down car she remaybe take notice. Katelyn entered the meeting and told ceived from her sister. We argued she ought to be grateful of needing to open her window to get out of her car. for any car. Katelyn felt Hallie should keep her car and I realized, as these kids told their stories, that they Katelyn get the nicer newer model. However, with Hallie were all second — or third — children leaving town for college, she needed the more reliable in their families, probably suffering the same handcar. me-down car blues as Katelyn. I wonder how many of Thus, our second child took the wheel of the car that them have scrapbooks or birth certificates.

Hallie had crunched into our garage, into the rear-end of her friend’s car and into some unknown object she’s still

Legends and parties

Two different news articles from the early 1886 and an auxiliary of the Knights of Macca20th century indicated early residents liked bees. historical links for some organizations.

The Knights of Maccabees, founded in An article from the Dec. 5, 1902, Melrose 1878, took their name from a Judean group who Beacon announced a series of card parties led a revolt against the Seleucid Empire about being held in the community. The sponsoring 150 years before Christ. The name Maccabees organization had the interesting title of the means “The Hammer.” The Maccabees successKnights of Pythias. Two decades there was a fully liberated Jerusalem (originating the Hamasquerade ball held at city hall, sponsored by nukkah festival). The war went back and forth A Peek at the Past until the Maccabees allied themselves with the the Lady Maccabees.

Both organizations had their beginnings in by Herman Lensing Romans, which paved the way for a Roman take the late 19th century. The Knights of Pythias over. was a fraternal organization founded in 1864, and was the The Maccabees had a desire for the membership to first fraternal organization to receive a charter through an care for its own. By the early 20th century, it had evolved act of the U.S. Congress. It took its name from the legend into an organization providing low cost insurance to its of Damon and Pythias. members.

The legend is of two pre-Christian era Greeks, The Lady Maccabees changed names over the years, Damon and Pythias, who journeyed to Syracuse. While but in 1915 it was known as the Women’s Benefit Assothere, Pythias was charged and arrested for plotting to ciation and in 1966, the North American Benefit Associamurder the ruler of the land. Sentenced to death, he asked tion. The group was the first benefit society to be operated permission to return home and settle affairs. The ruler exclusively by women. agreed, but only if Damon remained, and if Pythias did Just what the exact role of the organizations were not return by the appointed day, Damon would be execut- in Melrose is not spelled out in the articles. They seem ed. Damon agreed to the terms, stayed and Pythias set off. to have been, based on what was reported, interested in He returned just before Damon was to be executed. The helping the community relax and have a pleasant time. ruler was so impressed by their devotion to their promises The 1922 article on the Lady Maccabees promised that he pardoned Pythias.

“Music by the Markuson’s Orchestra” and “a good time The Knights of Pythias drew on the legend and were awaits all.” established with the principles of friendship, charity and According to the article about the Knights of Pythbenevolence. The organization still exists in a number of ias, the card party was well attended and predicted larger countries. gatherings at future such parties stating, “… Nowhere It would be harder to find a Lady Maccabee organiza- can a person better enjoy himself or herself, than at these tion as the name has changed. The group was founded in social meetings given by the K.Ps.”

LETTER T O T H E E D I T O R Community support drives progress

By Jakub Tolar, MD, PHD, dean of University of Minnesota Medical School and Ken Holmen, MD, president and CEO of CentraCare On behalf of CentraCare and the University of Minnesota Medical School, we want to say thank you. Our organizations have been working for the past two years to bring a regional medical school campus to St. Cloud, and the progress we’ve achieved is largely because of our remarkable physicians, staff and the support of our communities.

The vision to expand the UMMS’s footprint to central Minnesota is a bold idea to address a growing healthcare crisis. Rural Americans are at greater risk of death from heart disease, cancer, unintentional injury, chronic respiratory disease and stroke. One contributing factor is access to care. While 20% of the U.S. population lives in rural communities, only 11% of physicians practice in these areas. Greater Minnesota residents find it more difficult to get appropriate care in a timely manner close to home.

We want to change that.

And based on the community support we’ve received from people across Minnesota, we know you want to see

Offices at Published by 408 E. Main St. Star Publications Melrose, MN 56352 Copyright 2023 320-351-6579 522 Sinclair Lewis Ave. 561 Railroad Ave. Sauk Centre, MN 56378 Albany, MN 56307 320-352-6577 320-845-2700 www.star-pub.com Periodicals postage pending at Melrose, MN THE STAR POST (USPS 338-300) is published weekly on Wednesdays by The Star Post, 408 E. Main St., Melrose, MN 56352.

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change also. More than 150 businesses across the region formally expressed support for this concept — a clear recognition that health and wellness is foundational to communities’ ability to thrive.

What makes this situation even more urgent is Minnesota’s rural physicians are retiring faster than they can be replaced. That’s why we’re looking for the next generation of physicians. And the best way to attract new physicians to rural Minnesota is to train them in rural Minnesota.

This innovative collaboration is an investment in the future health of our region. Developing a medical campus in St. Cloud will be the first expansion of the University’s Medical School in 52 years and comes at a time when this region’s growing population needs better access to healthcare.

The next milestone for this effort occurs in mid-October, when the University of Minnesota Board of Regents votes on final approval. Once approved, we’ll work toward the goal of welcoming our first class of medical students in fall 2025.

As we continue this journey, it is gratifying to know our communities are as eager for the outcome as are our two organizations.

I am getting expensive Hailstorms, wind damage or car wrecks, we have had a bit of good luck so far this year in that we haven’t had to submit any claims. I have seen some damage to people’s siding on their houses from the storms we had this past summer and know how inconvenient it can be. Also, Ink on My Hands

by Kevin Zierden when someone is without a car for a while, it tends to create problems with simply getting around. Usually, they have insurance for that, and getting things back to good or normal eventually occurs.

Before I turned 60 last year, I used to boast about how I was never sick. My physicals would show a healthy, disease-free body. I was racking up sick time at work, and we were paying for health insurance that we never used. That was until I was diagnosed with prostate cancer last year and had to have it removed this past April. Although certain side effects have a longer recovery time, I was feeling great, and all of my post-operative check ups showed wonderful progression. I was back to my old self and doing all the things we loved to do.

A few weeks ago, our Up North group — close friends and family — headed up north to a resort near Outing. We scheduled the last weekend in September, as we have done for 20 years or so, to see the fall colors and do a little fishing and four-wheeling. The ride up there is the most interesting since we have a dress up theme each year, and we stop at garage sales along the way to show our costumes off. This year, we dressed in 80s style and reminisced about the glory days of early post high school, the movies “Breakfast Club” and “Chariots of Fire.” After a few detours for adult beverages for the non-drivers, we settled in that evening at a few cabins at the All Pine Inn and Resort.

It rained most of Friday morning and by evening we were ready for a nice bonfire and campfire stories. The All Pine Inn has karaoke on weekend evenings so a few of us delighted the guests with musical performances. Of course, those that stayed around the fire and listened to the music from outside thought they may have heard better concerts in their day, so who knows. Either way, we had fun.

I spent much of that night in bed fighting a bad stomach and woke up the next morning feeling the same. We went fishing during the day and managed to catch enough fish for everyone to have a few fillets. Some in the group took a long four-wheeling ride, looked for agates in the gravel pit or sat around relaxing. The bloated feeling in my stomach was becoming more localized on the lower right side and getting more painful. After another bonfire on Saturday evening, we packed up and were home on Sunday in time to see most of the Vikings win.

By Monday at work, since the pain in my abdomen had not gotten better, I went in to have it checked out. The doctor who examined me thought that I should have an X-ray taken so he could get a better look. Within the hour he called me at work and said he was scheduling an ultrasound for early the next morning. At 7 a.m. Tuesday I had the ultrasound, went to work for a while, then had a CT scan around noon, and within the hour was told to head to the hospital for an appendectomy. By 7 p.m. that evening, I was having my appendix removed.

When I googled the most common surgeries performed by doctors, appendectomies were at the top of the list. And most of these were emergency procedures. There is not really a purpose for an appendix so being rid of mine is not that big a deal.

Still, I would rather stop losing organs in my stomach every few months. I am getting expensive.

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The deadline for most news and advertisements 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 Shopper is noon Wednesday and Classy Canary is noon Thursday.

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

Page 8 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | THE STAR POST

PHOTOS BY MARK KLAPHAKE

Tanner Goebel (left) and his father, Dale, stand in their yard Aug. 14 on their farm near Freeport. Dale has served as a mentor to Tanner, who is returning to the farm full time after graduating from Melrose Area High School in June.

Goebel chooses to milk cows

All about

Agriculture

Born to farm

BY MARIA BICHLER AND MARK KLAPHAKE STAFF WRITERS

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Tanner Goebel was posed the question as a kindergarten student. His answer — a dairy farmer — has never wavered.

“I knew this would be my lifestyle someday,” said the 18-year-old from Freeport. “It gets to be long somedays, but I really enjoy it.”

Goebel, who graduated from Melrose Area High School in June, plans to farm full time alongside his parents, Dale and Brenda, on their 55-cow dairy farm in Stearns County.

While Goebel’s friends from high school might be pursuing a trade in welding or construction, or going off to college, he has found contentment returning as the fourth generation of his family to farm their site.

Goebel follows an eight-decade tradition started by his great-grandfather, Robert; grandfather, Melvin; and his father before him.

“I don’t want to give the farm up to somebody else,” Goebel said. “It’s always been in the family name. I’m hoping to hit 100 years here.”

The Goebels milk in a 55-cow tie stall barn. Together, father and son work to complete each day’s tasks. For milking, Goebel washes the teats and applies the pre and post dips, and Dale attaches units. The arrangement has been that way for over a decade.

Afterward, Goebel mixes the herd’s total mixed ration that Dale then feeds.

During this time, Goebel

Tanner Goebel feeds cows Aug. 14 in his family’s tie stall barn on their farm near Freeport. Goebel said he has known since he was a child he wanted a career in dairy farming.

cleans the barn and feeds the calves. Goebel is also involved with fieldwork during the growing season.

“Dad has really taught me to make sure you are keeping up with your cows every day,” Goebel said.

“Keep a good milking time schedule, and if you maintain your cows well, they will do good for you. If you don’t comfort them and give them everything they need, they will start going backward.”

Dale’s mentorship has served Goebel well as he plans to work for his parents before slowly transitioning into ownership of the farm’s livestock and machinery.

“Dad also said don’t stress out about the crops and the weather,” Goebel said. “There is nothing you can do about it.”

The determined teenager has plans to someday erect a freestall barn with a robotic milking system to

expand the said. “I’m happy herd to inbeing with the clude 120 cows and cows. seeing how Curthey are rently, improv“Going out in the morning to the ing.” milk the cows, see the milk GoebThe production and knowing the els are Goebels cows are going to make you upgradbreed money just makes me happy. ing their for milk I’m happy being with the calf barn. produccows and seeing how they Prevition but are improving.” ously, also focus - Tanner Goebel calves were on butterfat housed as and protein groups in content, teat pens, which length and spacing, were pitched out legs and stature. by hand. This fall, the “We have a family of 56- by 50-foot barn will cows that will always be be completed and used sticking around,” Goebel to house calves up to 5-6 said. “They have been good months old. producers over the years.”

Goebel is driven by the Goebel aspires to learn family’s cows. to A.I. so that he can further “Going out in the put his skills to use on the morning to milk the cows, farm. That mindset to learn see the milk production has helped shape Goebel’s and knowing the cows are character. going to make you money “I’ve learned a lot in just makes me happy,” he high school with my shop

‘‘

and my ag classes,” he said.

“I’ve learned how to build things in woods class and how to weld stuff. I also learned how to identify soil types, how your crops should be rotated and how to put your fertilizers on the field.”

His main teacher through the years has been his dad. Dale has taught Goebel valuable lessons from a young age, like how to read and balance feed rations as well as analyze feed results. Dale also taught Goebel how to read somatic cell count results, which led to learning how to balance the economics of keeping a cow versus culling those cows that are losing the farm money.

“I check the milk sheet to see if the cows were up or down in milk,” Goebel said. “Usually, I check every other day on my phone to see the butterfat content.”

If Goebel sees numbers going in a negative trend,

he monitors the feed in front of the cows to check for moldy corn silage or hay. The inquisitive part of Goebel’s personality helps in his career path as a dairy farmer.

“If I want to get something done, even if it’s going to be a little bit of a struggle, if I put my mind to it, I will get it done,” Goebel said.

Goebel said he is looking forward to fall on the farm. Hauling boxes full of fresh-cut silage and filling the silo puts a smile on his face.

“It’s rewarding when you are sitting in the tractor relaxing, knowing that you have the harvest done and you can sit back and relax until spring,” Goebel said.

He has also learned to face the challenge of days that do not go as planned.

Last fall, when the Goebels were chopping corn silage, the radiator quit working on a tractor. Goebel was able to repair a few hoses to make it operational. After a time, the fan, belt and all the bearings had to be replaced.

“I told Dad, ‘Let’s see if we can do it ourselves,’” Goebel said. “I put all the new bearings and bolts in, and within four hours, we had the tractor up and going again. That was a really good day, knowing that we fixed it and got back to chopping.”

Now, when posed a question about the strenuous workload of a dairy farmer, with work that never quits, Goebel is as enthusiastic as he was as that elementary boy years ago.

“A successful day to me is getting up in the morning to milk cows, then going out in the field and getting a bunch of work done and coming back to milk the cows and then coming in and eating supper, sitting down with the family and relaxing,” he said. “It’s worth it.”

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SPORTS

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | Page 9

thankful for

Lady Dutchmen shine Family Farmers on senior night

growing our future

Friday, November 10th | 9am - 1pm Melrose American Legion - Enjoy free lunch!

Speaker: Ted Mathews, MN Dept. of Agriculture Presented by NAMI St. Cloud Area Space is limited! To register, call:

320-654-1259

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

Do you have a 401(k) from a previous employer?

Gone are the days when people worked the same job for their entire life.

Theresia Nathe pulls herself into a pike in the diving competition Oct. 3 at Melrose Area High School in Melrose. Nathe posted her best dual meet score at the contest.

brought points to Melrose with her runner-up finishes in the 100 freestyle and 100 backstroke.

“Makayla had her season best in the 100 freestyle and had an excellent swim

in the 100 back,” Meyer said. “She had a nice drop to finish second in the backstroke.”

Seanger’s contributions were finishing fifth in the 200 freestyle, taking third and giving Melrose a 1-2-3 finish in the 500 freestyle and helping Melrose’s 400 freestyle B relay take third place.

“She works extremely hard in the pool and that has helped her become a very good distance swimmer,” Meyer said. “She had her season-best time in the 200 freestyle and provides us with a very strong distance core.”

Nathe logged her best Brooke Ruoff shows her versatility in the 100-yard backstroke race Oct. 3 at Melrose Area High School in Melrose. She won six-dive performance of the the event and also had her best time of the season in winning year, scoring a 217.55 to

win the event. Elli Dockendorf, 193.8, finished second.

“Theresia had an awesome score,” Meyer said.

“She was on all night long.”

The seniors were not the only ones excelling for the Lady Dutchmen. Foley won the 200 freestyle, 500 freestyle and 200 freestyle relay races. Other than that, Melrose generally earned 1-2 finishes.

The tone was set in the first race, where Zirbes, Drossel, Ava Wensmann and Ella Erdmann took first and Brooke Ruoff, Jaelyn Mayers, Georgia Anderson and Anika Berscheit took second. Those races blended proven and upcoming talent.

Seanger, Lauren Reed and Jaiden Smith had their season-best times in the 200 freestyle and Brooke Ruoff won the 50FS and 100BK with some good times. The focus, though, remained on the seniors.

“They have meant a lot to our program over the years,” Meyer said. “It was nice to have them have good swims and diving performances in their last home meet.”

Melrose results: 200MR: 1.

Zirbes, Drossel, Wensmann and Erdmann 2 minutes, .06 seconds. 200FS: 2. Reed 2:05.97. 200IM: 1. Drossel 2:14.19. 50FS: 1. Ruoff 26.6. Diving: 1. Nathe 217.15 points. 100FLY: 1.

Anderson 1:06.69. 100FS: 1. Reed 57.93. 500FS: 2. Jaiden Smith 5:52.94.

200FSR: 2. Reed, Wensmann, Smith and Maddi Kraemer 1:49.17. 100BK: 1. Ruoff 1:05.11. 100BR: 1. Drossel 1:06.75. 400FSR: 1. Reed, Kraemer, Ruoff and Drossel 3:51.04.

the 50 freestyle.

Last race gives Huskies swimming, diving win Albany tops Cathedral/St. John’s Prep

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

Also finishing first for Albany was Hoffarth in the 50 freestyle and Hennen in the 100 freestyle and 100 backstroke.

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Spotlight

Pictured L to R: Mike Steele, VP of Manufacturing; Dana Lynch, President; Dennis Middleton, VP of Quality Engineering; Brandon Hartung, Plant Manager; Janelle Stocker, HR Manager; Eric Rodarnel, VP of Sales and Marketing

October is Manufacturing Month!

About the Business Business Name: Columbia Gear Corporation How long have you been in business? 80 years, and we have been family owned since 1982.

How many years have you been a chamber member? Since the chamber first started.

What is the primary function of your business/what services do you offer? We are a full service, precision machining company, specializing in custom gear manufacturing How many people does your business employ?: 300, including contracts and full time Tell us one unique fact about your business: We have 5 employees who have worked for Columbia Gear for over 50 years!

What do you value most about being part of the Avon community?

We are proud to provide stable careers to people in a small town community where you feel like you are a person, not just a number.

“Building Careers and Gears for Eighty Years!”

Albany results: 200MR: 2. Justin, Teagan Crumley, Sara Eiynck and Hoffarth 2:08.57. 200FS: 2. Rayvin Pullins 2:19.25. 200IM: 2. Sara Eiynck 2:33.63 and 4. Kalla 2:55.14. 50FS: 1. Hoffarth 27.27. Diving: 2. Kennedy Buchanan 131.75 points. 100FLY: 2. Teagan Crumley 1:08.87. 100FS: 1. Hennen 1:02.17.

500FS: 3. Pullins 6:22.11. 200FSR: 2. Sara Eiynck, Teagan Crumley, Pullins and Hoffarth 1:54.43. 100BK: 1. Hennen 1:10.34. 100BR: 2. Teagan Crumley 1:18.82.

With the score tied and one event left, the Albany Huskies swimming and diving team finished first and third in the 400-yard freestyle relay to top Cathedral-St. John’s Prep 94-88 Oct. 5 at St. John’s University in Collegeville.

Becker 101, Albany 84 “This was a big win for us against a strong CatheThe Huskies traveled to Becker High School in Beckdral-St John’s Prep team,” said Dana Crumley, head er Oct. 3 and lost to the Bulldogs 101-84. coach. “The girls had many great swims throughout the Albany had fi rst-place fi nishes in the 200 medley meet to make this happen.” relay, 200 individual medley and 100 backstroke.

The team of Mya Justin, Lauren Hennen, Michaela 200MR: 1. Justin, Teagan Crumley, Sara Eiynck and Hoffarth 2:10.07.

Buersken and Trista Hoffarth finished in 4 minutes, 16.68 200FS: 2. Pullins 2:20.81. 200IM: 1. Sara Eiynck 2:34.46. 50FS: 2. Hoffarth Diving: 4. Buchanan 126.45. 100FLY: 2. Crumley 1:10.58. 100FS: 3. seconds, about seven seconds faster than the second-place 27.31.

Hennen 1:02.33. 500FS: 2. Pullins 6:19.99. 200FSR: 2. Sara Eiynck, Crumley, A relay from Cathedral-St. John’s Prep.

Mckenzie Eiynck and Hoffarth 1:59.13. 100BK: 1. Hennen 1:10.79. 100BR: Teagan Crumley 1:19.65. 400FSR: 2. Justin, Hennen, Mckenzie Eiynck and In third place for the Huskies was the grouping of Hoffarth 4:22.37.

Mckenna Lieser, Molly Selix, Elise Kalla and Quinn Hoeschen with a time of 4:40.74.

Lakes, Loons & Living

Area Chamber of Commerce

Purple PRIDE Andrew Olson Parents: Mark and Katie Olson.

Accomplishment: One of the captains and a senior on the Albany Area High School football team.

P41-1B-TV

PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING

Jaiden Smith pulls toward the wall in the 500-yard freestyle Oct. 3 at Melrose Area High School in Melrose. Smith’s finish gave the Lady Dutchmen second place in the longest race of the night.

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What do you enjoy most about being part of the football team? The natural chemistry we have together. We are all like a family, and it makes practices and games even more enjoyable.

What is something you’ve learned in class recently? How to code and create websites from Mr. Boone.

Tell us about the most memorable game you have been part of. In middle school when it was a mud bowl and below freezing.

Which teacher/coach has been most influential in your life? The staff at Albany High School are like nowhere else, and it’s difficult to choose just one person who impacted me. I’m extremely thankful to all my teachers and coaches who have turned me into who I am today.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Basketball, golf and Captains and Leaders Club.

What life lesson has being involved in activities taught you? Hard work is needed to succeed, and teamwork makes a dream work. Really good players won’t go far if you can’t work together as a team.

What are two goals you would like to accomplish during the school year? Earn state championships in football and basketball.

Tell us something about yourself most people don’t know? I’m a black belt in karate.

For dinner and a movie, what’s on the menu and big screen? If I’m not paying, my go-to dinner would be at Fuji Sushi and Steakhouse. If I have to pay, I’m ordering a bacon double cheeseburger meal from Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. I watch “21 Jump Street.”

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SALUTING GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE ALBANY HIGH SCHOOL

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The Melrose Area Lady Dutchmen saluted their seniors prior to their swimming and diving home meet against Foley Oct. 3, at Melrose High School in Melrose.

The 119-67 win came in no small part because of finishes by seniors Hallie Drossel, Makayla Zirbes, Leah Seanger and Theresia Nathe competing in their last home meet.

“For the seniors, it was a big night,” said Nathan Meyer, head coach. “They wanted to have good swims and dives and the seniors definitely did.”

Lady Dutchmen fans are used to seeing Drossel winning the 200-yard individual medley and 100 breaststroke. That night, they saw some of the best efforts of her career. She finished the individual medley at 2 minutes, 14.19 seconds, exceeding the 2:15.00 state cut time. In the 100 breaststroke, Drossel had another goal besides winning.

“She wanted to set the pool record,” Meyer said.

“She finished at 2:06.7; the pool record is 2:06.55. She holds that record.”

Drossel swam with the first-place 200 medley and 400 freestyle relays.

Zirbes was also part of the 200 medley relay. She

PS41-1B-RB

Swimmers race past Foley

SPORTS/ PUBLIC NOTICES

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | Page 11

Huskies reach 20 wins in tremendous fashion

Albany volleyball sweeps Milaca, Mora

PUBLIC NOTICES ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS CITY OF ALBANY ALBANY, MINNESOTA 56307 Project: Bids Close: Bid Location:

Albany Golf Club 500 Church Avenue Albany, MN October 30, 2023 – 2:00 pm local time Albany Golf Club 500 Church Avenue Albany, MN

Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting: October 17, 2023 - 10:00am local time Albany Golf Club 500 Church Avenue Albany, MN

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS - Contractor’s sealed proposals for the construction of Albany Golf Club, Albany, Minnesota, a project including General, Mechanical and Electrical Construction will be received by the Architect, at the above-menThe Albany Huskies tioned time and place in accordance with plans and specifications volleyball team went 3-0 in prepared by Ringdahl Architects, Inc. both of their competition Bids will be received as follows: Combined bid including this past week to improve general, mechanical, and electrical work. their record to 20-3 and Total bid should reflect any discounts or savings that will be passed through contractor to the City.

8-0 in the Granite Ridge Bids received after deadline will be returned unopened.

Conference, ahead of secBids will be opened publicly immediately after time of reond-place Pequot Lakes at ceiving bids.

6-1.

Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked in the Albany 3, Milaca 0 lower left-hand corner “Albany Golf Course” and with the name The Huskies domiand address of the bidder and the date and hour of the opening nated in a 3-0 win over and addressed to: Milaca Oct. 5 at Milaca Albany Golf Club High School in Milaca with 500 Church Avenue scores of 25-12, 25-10, Albany, MN Fax’d bids are not acceptable. Each bidder must accompany 25-16.

PHOTOS BY MIKE KOSIK Ava Hines had a perfect Albany’s Anna Schiffler stretches out to dig against Mora Oct. 3 at Albany Area High School in their proposal with a cashier’s check, bid bond or certified check equal to five percent (5%) of the amount of the proposal payable night serving, making all Albany. The Huskies defeated their Granite Ridge Conference foe 3-0. to the owner as guarantee of prompt execution of the contract in 27 attempts and recording accordance with the proposal and contract documents, and that five aces. Paige Lauer was blocks. Ellery Ehresmann “I thought we came out really excellent,” Hines he will furnish bond acceptable to the owner covering perfor14-for-14 serving with two had 27 set assists. a little sluggish in the first said. mance of the contract. aces. Hannah Klein led the Albany 3, Mora 0 set, but our girls bounced He said Albany’s serve Project documents will be available at Ringdahl Architects, team in kills with 15, with Albany endured a close back in sets two and three,” kept the ball away from Inc. 510 22nd Avenue East Suite 102 Alexandria, MN 56308, Brynn Panek getting first set against Mora but said Brian Hines, head Mora’s outside hitter and St. Rosa Lumber, Inc. 29033 County Road 17, Freeport, MN eight.

56331and the City of Albany 400 Railroad Avenue, Albany, MN took the next two by wide coach. middle.

56307.

The dig leader margins in its 3-0 victory Hines added the team “Our serve did a nice Bids may not be withdrawn for thirty (30) days after the was Kiley Lange Oct. 3 at Albany Area High played a lot better and more job in getting some aces and scheduled closing time for receiving bids. The owner reserves with 10 and School in Albany. efficiently. runs,” he said. the right to reject any or all bids and waive any irregularities in Panek had The score was tied In the second set, AlbaHines set the serving bids. four ace seven times early in the first ny jumped to a 17-4 lead on pace, making all 26 of her A Contractor responding to these Bidding Documents must set before the Huskies took its way to a 25-10 victory. attempts and getting six submit to the City/Owner a signed statement under oath by an an 11-10 lead. While they The third set played out aces. Klein had five ace owner or officer verifying compliance with each of the minimum never relinquished the lead, even better for Albany, who serves, going 11-for-12. She criteria in Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.285, subdivision 3. the Mustangs kept it close took the early lead, built on also led the team in kills Any prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that does before Albany closed out it and won 25-7. with 16. Ehresmann had 24 not meet the minimum criteria established for a “responsible conthe first set with a 25-18 “I thought our digging, set assists, while Klein and tractor” as defined in Minn. Stat. § 16C.285, subd. 3 or fails to comply with the verification requirements is not a responsible win. passing and serving were Lauer had six digs each. contractor and is not eligible to be awarded a construction contract for the project or to perform work on the project. A false statement under oath verifying compliance with any of the minimum criteria shall make the prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that makes the false statement ineligible to be awarded a construction project and may result in termination of a contract awarded to a prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that submits a false statement. The prime contractor shall include in its verification of compliance a list of all of its first-tier subcontractors that it intends to retain for work on the project.

Tom Schneider Interim City Administrator Albany, Minnesota Published in the Star Post this 11th day of October, 2023.

P-41-1B

BY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER

(Above) Hannah Klein prepares to knock the ball over the net in Albany’s match against Mora Oct. 3 at Albany Area High School in Albany. Klein led the team in kills with 16.

(Left) Ava Hines sets to serve against Mora Oct. 3 at Albany Area High School in Albany. Hines had a perfect week serving, making all 53 attempts while recording 11 aces in two matches.

CITY OF FREEPORT NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY Plat Four.

GIVEN that a hearing will be For more information, you held before the City Council of can write or visit Freeport City Freeport on Tuesday, October Hall (125 Main Street East, PO 31, 2023, in the City Hall lo- Box 301) 8am-4pm M-F, call cated at 125 Main Street East 320-836-2112 or email clerk@ at 7:00pm or soon thereafter, freeportmn.org. to consider approving the final Jon Nelson – Clerk-Treasurer plat of Welle’s Country Acres P-41-1B

Albany Public Works to conduct seasonal HYDRANT FLUSHING Monday October 16th through Friday, October 20th Beginning Monday, October 16th through Friday, the 20th of October, the Albany Public Works Department will be performing routine flushing of the City Water System and Fire Hydrants.

This is part of a regularly scheduled maintenance program that removes rust, manganese deposits and sediment from the City’s water lines.

When hydrant flushing is being performed in your neighborhood you may experience rusty water and discoloration along with pressure fluctuation.

Below are some precautions you may take: • When you notice flushing is occurring in your neighborhood, please check your water coming from your faucet before using your washing machine. You may need to run it for a bit until it runs clear.

• If by accident you do wash a load and rusty looking streaks appear on your laundry, don’t use bleach as this will set the stains permanently. A product called “Iron Out” has been shown to be successful in removing iron stains from fabric.

If you have any questions, please call Albany’s Public Works Supervisor, Joe Mergen at 320.980.2990.

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NOTICE OF TESTING OF OPTICAL SCAN VOTING SYSTEM INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 740 (MELROSE AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS) STATE OF MINNESOTA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Independent School District No. 740 (Melrose Area Public Schools) shall perform a public accuracy test of the optical scan voting system to be used in the School District’s November 7, 2023 special election. The test shall be conducted at Melrose Area Public Schools (High School Library) - 546 5th Ave. NE, Melrose, Minnesota on October 17, 2023 at 10 o’clock a.m. Interested individuals are authorized to attend and observe. If you have any questions, please contact Tammy Oliver at 320-256-5613.

Dated: July 24, 2023

BY ORDER OF THE SCHOOL BOARD /s/ Becky Felderwerd School District Clerk Independent School District No. 740 (Melrose Area Public Schools) State of Minnesota P-40-2B

Albany Area Schools Albany, Minnesota 56307 Administration Office Telephone 320/845-2171 – FAX 320/201-5878 REGULAR SCHOOL BOARD MEETING Albany Area Schools – ISD #745 District Board Room 30 Forest Ave Albany, Minnesota 56307 October 11, 2023, 6:00 PM AG E ND A 1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Public Forum 4. Agenda -- Additions and Deletions 5. Approvals 1. Previous Meeting Minutes 2. Cash Flow Reports 3. Acceptance of Gifts and Donations 6. Consent Agenda 7. Reports 1. Purple Pride 8. Business 1. Enrollment Report 2. Fundraiser Approvals 3. Memorandum of Understanding Regarding E-Learning Days 2023-2024 4. Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Robotics Assistant Coach 2023-2024 5. Resolution for Safe Routes to School Boost Grant 6. Administrative Procedure 7. School Board Policies - Third Read 1. 102 Equal Educational Opportunity 2. 418 Drug-Free Workplace/Drug-Free School 3. 419 Tobacco-Free Environment; Possession and Use of Tobacco, Tobacco- Related Devices, and Electronic Delivery Devices; Vaping Awareness and Prevention Instruction 4. 424 License Status 5. 425 Staff Development and Mentoring 6. 506 Student Discipline 7. 507 Corporal Punishment and Prone Restraint 8. 509 Enrollment of Nonresident Students 9. 513 Student Promotion, Retention, and Program Design 10. 912 Academic & Athletic Wall of Honor 8. School Board Policies - First Read 1. 514 Bullying Prohibition Policy 2. 516.5 Overdose Medication 3. 524 Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy 4. 532 Use of Peace Officers and Crisis Teams 5. 534 School Meals Policy 6. 601 School District Curriculum and Instruction Goals 7. 602 Organization of School Calendar and School Day 8. 603 Curriculum Development 9. 604 Instructional Curriculum 10. 613 Graduation Requirements 9. AFT Negotiations Strategy 1. Close the Meeting 2. Reopen the Meeting 9. Committee Reports 1. Staff Development Meeting 2. Schools For Equity In Education General Meeting 3. World’s Best Workforce Meeting 10. Superintendent Report 11. Adjournment Note: Items may be added to the agenda which have an immediate effect on the operation of the school district. An effort will be made to keep additions to a minimum.

Amy Sand, Clerk

SPORTS

Page 12 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | THE STAR POST

Perham Invite brings production

Howard Lake-WaverlyWinsted halts Dutchmen Throws 2 touchdowns passes

BY HERMAN LENSING | STAFF WRITER

The Howard Lake-Wa- quarter, HLWW stopped a verly-Winsted Lakers Dutchmen drive and scored downed the Melrose Area on a 41-yard touchdown football team 28-14 Oct. pass just before the half to 6 at Howard Lake-Wavertake a 22-6 lead into the ly-Winsted High School in locker room.

Howard Lake.

Neither team moved The Dutchmen had the ball early in the second problems controlling the half. The defenses, though, Lakers’ running game, who had good moments. The piled up 243 yards, all game Dutchmen recovered a long. HLWW built to a 16-0 HLWW fumble and the lead early in the second Laker defense intercepted quarter, with its second two passes. touchdown set up by recovIt was not until late in ering a Melrose fumble. the fourth quarter that either Running the ball proved side scored again. Followdifficult for the Dutchmen, ing a second interception, who had 66 yards on the HLWW again established ground. They did, at times, its running game and scored move the ball through the a final touchdown with 1 air. Hudson Bitz successful- minute, 20 seconds left. ly passed the ball to Teague The Dutchmen engiDusha, five catches for 95 neered a touchdown drive yards; Max Wehlage, two in the final 80 seconds. catches for 41 yards; James Connecting with his receivRieland, two catches for 25 ers, Bitz moved the ball yards; and Jackson Mayers, inside the HLWW 10-yard one reception for 15 yards. line. The drive, however, Those passes opened up the appeared to stall out after run. incomplete passes. Facing a This passing attack and fourth-and-6 on the HLWW runs by Mayers, nine car6-yard line, Bitz found Riries for 39 yards, and Bitz, eland for a touchdown with seven rushes for 19 yards, 16 seconds left and passed completed a 60-yard scor- to Devin Bauer in the end ing drive. With protection zone for the two-point confrom the offensive line, Bitz version. connected with Dusha for a Melrose is at home for 4-yard touchdown midway its final two regular season through the second quarter. games. The Dutchmen face On the next series, the 5-1 Rockford Friday, Oct. Dutchmen defense stiffened 13, at Melrose Area High and forced HLWW to turn School in Melrose.

0 6 0 8-14 the ball over on downs. The MEL HLWW 8 14 0 6-28 Lakers defense also stiffMelrose results: Passing: Bitz 10-for-20, 159 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT. ened and pressured MelRushing: Mayers 9 carries-37 yards. rose, forcing a punt.

Receiving: Dusha 5 catches-95 yards.

Late in the second

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BATTLE MELROSE

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the ball from getting to Melrose’s side. She teamed up with Berscheit for blocks and had some of her own, finishing the day with eight blocks.

Ria Nelson, 32-for-37 and Avery Birch with two aces, continued to serve well. Nelson was busy, setting 79 assists and digging

BY HERMAN LENSING out 37 hits.

STAFF WRITER Allie Hoppe’s 30 digs started successful Melrose The Melrose Area attacks. She also served Lady Dutchmen won three well, as it was her fourof their four matches and point run in the second set earned third place at the with Kittson Central that Perham Invite Oct. 7 at gave the Lady Dutchmen a Perham High School in 24-22 lead.

Perham.

Sauk Centre 3, Melrose 1 Melrose won 2-0 (25Melrose held off a Sauk 15, 25-21) over Kittson Centre rally in the second Central in its final contest. set for its only win in a 3-1 It had advanced to the loss Oct. 5 at Sauk Censemifinals with a 2-1 (25tre High School in Sauk 17, 19-25, 15-12) win over Centre.

Henning and a 2-0 (25-11, The Lady Dutchmen 25-20) victory over Park won the second set 25Rapids before losing to 23, tying the match after eventual champion Hawley a 25-16 first-set loss. The 1-2 (25-19, 17-25, 12-15).

Streeters won 25-15, 25-16 Melrose played well in in the third and fourth sets, all aspects but was esperespectively. cially impressive at the net.

Ellering and Birch each Hannah Hoppe brought slammed down five kills, points to the team with 23 and Birch finished with two kills and 3 blocks. When blocks. A number of kill serving (34 of 35), she put chances came from sets by in four aces. It was her kills Nelson, who was honored that ended the matches PHOTO BY MARK KLAPHAKE during the game for recordagainst both Park Rapids Ria Nelson (left) receives a hug from teammate Hannah Hoppe ing her 1000th career set and Kittson Central. after she recording her 1000th set assist Oct. 5 at Sauk Centre assist.

Primarily attacking High School in Sauk Centre. Nelson has been the team’s primary Holding the serve was a from the left side but effec- setter this season. real plus for Melrose in the tive from almost anywhere second set. Sauk Centre had on the court, Kaylee EllerAlea Berscheit’s ing with 14 on the day. She a 21-19 lead before Ellering ing kept finding openings in defense was a big part of also started a number of had a five-point run for a the opposing defenses and the third-place match. She attacks with 12 digs.

24-22 lead. finished with 28 kills. Her frustrated the Kittson CenIsabelle Jaenicke was Birch had three aces serving, 27-of-30, produced tral middle attack all match another player preventing serves. scoring runs and three aces. long with her blocks, finish-

Melrose runners take fourth in Sauk Centre

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

Middle-of-the-pack finishes were recorded

by the Melrose Dutchmen and Lady Dutchmen cross-country teams at the Mainstreeter Invite Oct. 3 at the Old Course in Sauk

Sunday, October 15th, 2023 The Holdingford Area Knights of Columbus

St. Isidore Council 9307 is sponsoring a

SAUK CENTRE

VS Streeters

3

CHICKEN & HAM DINNER at the

Pelican Lake Ballroom 1 mile west of St. Anna serving from 3:30 to 7 pm

The Sauk Centre and Melrose Lions are doing a Border Battle between Sauk Centre and Melrose high school sports. Each time one beats the other they will get a point. The winner gets a donation to their school’s booster club or a scholarship from the other club.

Adults & Youth Ages 11 & Up $12; Children 5-10 $7; Under 4 Free

Pay at the door | Take-out orders available

Proceeds are used to support the charitable activities of the Council.

P41-1B-JO

CHURCH RUMMAGE SALE

Nelson records 1,000th set assist for Melrose volleyball

Centre.

The Dutchmen placed five runners in the top 31 in the 64-competitor field, finishing fourth out of nine teams with a score of 106 points. Sauk Centre took the team title with 31 points as Jacob Drevlow, 17:06.3, won the individual crown.

Tim Wilwerding led Melrose’s scoring, finishing at 19:63.21 and taking 16th place. Malachi Piche, 19:48.47, won a sprint to the finish line, besting Walker Greeley of New London-Spicer to earn 21st place. It was Piche’s best time and highest finish of the season.

Running with a pack was Sullivan Stumler, 20:13.91, 25th; Sawyer Frieler, 20:15.62, 28th; and Isaiah Zink, 20:21.6, 31st.

Thirty-four seconds separat-

ed spots 22 and 31.

In the girls race, the Lady Dutchmen usually came in close together. Maria Hinnenkamp, 21:40.21, and Danica Kerzman, 21:53.39, were 11th and 12th in the 66-person race, respectively. Kaitlyn Klasen, 23:40.36, and Zoe Hoeschen, 23:49.54, earned 30th and 32nd, respectively.

Greta Von Wahlde, 44th, had a 25:31.28 finish to round out Melrose’s scoring. Her finish gave the Lady Dutchmen fourth place as a team. With 128 points, they had one fewer point than Paynesville.

First place in the girls individual race went to Long Prairie-Grey Eagle’s Caroline Kuehne and her 20:04.92 finish. The Rocori Spartans claimed the top spot with 54 points.

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SPORTS

THE STAR POST | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | Page 13

Losses end regular season for Lady Dutchmen soccer

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

The Melrose Area Lady Dutchmen girls soccer team began postseason play Oct. 10 at Walker-Hackensack-Ashley High School in Walker.

Melrose fell 2-1 to Hillcrest Lutheran Academy Oct. 7 at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy in Fergus Falls.

No other details were made available before press time.

SJP 6, Melrose 1 With 14 minutes, 20 seconds left against St. John’s Prep, Tania Martinez Montanez was smiling, cheering and leaping Oct. 3 at Melrose Area High School in Melrose.

“I made a goal,” said the senior forward. “I felt a lot of pressure, and this was my last home game. I’ve been playing varsity for two years and this was my first goal.”

The goal was the Lady Dutchmen’s only score in a 6-1 loss. It was set up by being in the right place at the right time.

HOLDINGFORD SPORTS

Cross-country teams score 3rd, 11th in Hinckley

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford Huskers boys cross-country team, with two runners in the top 10, placed third at the Hinckley Invitational Oct. 3 at Grand National Golf Club in Hinckley.

Huskers Dawson Hofer finished sixth and Joe Guthrie was ninth. They were among 121 runners in the boys race that featured 17 teams. Hofer finished at 17 minutes, 31.9 seconds and Joe Guthrie at 17:39.

The top three teams were within one point of each other. First-place Cambridge-Isanti had a score of 95, followed by Cathedral at 96 and Holdingford 97.

The next three Husker finishers in the 5,000-meter race to count in the team score were Quinn Guthrie, 23rd, 18:13.8; Jimmy Jensen, 24th, 18:20; and Aidan Pellett, 35th, 18:39.

In the girls race, the Huskers finished 11th among 16 teams.

Crossing the finish line first for Holdingford was Loretta Mrosla, 25th at 22:22.2, followed by Evie Aleckson, 66th, 24:34.1; Claire Arvig, 77th, 25:01.1; Gracelyn Gerads, 78th, 25:03.8; and Lorraine Mrosla, 99th, 27:17.

There were 116 runners in the girls race. CamPHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING bridge-Isanti placed first with a score of 77. Holdingford’s A celebration breaks out at midfield with Daisy Montanez Martinez (front, from left) and Natalie score was 301.

Ambriz Botello; (back) Tania Martinez Montanez and Linsey Martinez Oct. 3 at Melrose Area High School in Melrose. The joyful teammates were celebrating Martinez Montanez’s goal.

SJP had just foiled Lady Dutchmen passing play but did not control the ball. Tania Martinez Montanez saw an opportunity.

“I stole the ball, then made the goal,” she said.

Melrose gave up goals

in both halves. After Tania Martinez Montanez’s goal, SJP added two more.

Pamela Martinez Montanez and Tia Primus split goaltending duties. Pamela Martinez Montanez had seven saves and Primus had

four saves.

Cathedral 9, Melrose 0 Cathederal topped Melrose 9-0 Oct. 5 at Cathedral High School in St. Cloud.

No other details were made available before press time.

Football cannot complete comeback in close loss

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

Just two points separated the Holdingford and Kimball football teams as the Cubs defeated the Huskers 30-28 Oct. 6 at Kimball High School in Kimball.

Kimball had the edge in the first half, scoring two touchdowns and two 2-point conversions to take a 16-12 lead.

Drew Lange scored three of Holdingford’s four touchdowns, all on running plays.

Holdingford’s first score came in the opening quarter on a Lange 1-yard run. Luke Bieniek scored Holdingford’s second Pamela Martinez Montanez keeps the ball in play Oct. Nyayul Ruey (from left), Trini Aciencion and Macy Davis show their touchdown in the second 3 against St. John’s Prep at Melrose Area High School support for Melrose’s girls soccer seniors Oct. 3 at Melrose Area High quarter on a 19-yard run. in Melrose. SJP prevented her from getting the ball to School in Melrose. It was the final home game for the team’s seniors. A 1-yard run by Lange

and a 2-point conversion

by Bieniek came in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, Lange scored on a 4-yard run and also ran for the 2-point conversion.

Bieniek carried the ball 18 times for 154 yards and one touchdown. He also caught two passes for 14 yards. Lange had 105 yards on 11 carries for three touchdowns. He was 9-for13 passing for 76 yards.

Brandon Hall was the top receiver with 21 yards on three catches.

The loss puts the Huskers at 4-2.

Holdingford travels to Paynesville Friday, Oct. 13.

The Bulldogs are 1-5.

HOLD KMB

6 6 8 8-28 8 8 6 8-30

a teammate.

Rockets shoot past Huskies in overtime Albany football struggles against Rockford defense

BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER

The tale of the tape for the high-octane football matchup between the Albany Huskies and Rockford Rockets Oct. 6 featured two similar teams with similar playstyles.

However, only one of the 4-1 teams could emerge with the victory, as it was Rockford who got a key defensive stop before finding in the end zone in overtime to seal a 20-14 win at Rockford High School in Rockford.

“Defensively, it was one of those brisk fall games where both teams are playing really good defense,” said Mike Ellingson, Albany head coach. “They just made one more play than we did.”

The defensive nature of the contest was established in the opening quarter, as neither squad found the end zone in the opening quarter.

Albany, well-renowned for its multi-faceted ground game, struggled to eke out yards against the Rock-

ets, averaging 2.5 yards per carry. These struggles were amplified by a case of “fumbleitis,” as the Huskies lost the ball four times but thankfully jumped on three of them.

“Our execution and timing was just a touch off,” Ellingson said. “They were good, they were physical, they were bigger than us.

But, our execution can be better, and that will be a focus for us moving forward.”

Future Golden Gopher Harrison Brun reeled in a 22-yard touchdown for the game’s first tally in the second quarter, and the Rockets entered the halftime break with a 7-0 lead. That early advantage did not take away from the fact that the Huskies were challenging the Rockford offense every time it possessed the ball.

The Rockets also found little in the way of rushing yards, accumulating only 78 yards on 33 touches, and Albany also held Rockford quarterback Tim Houghton

to nine completions on 21 attempts.

“We knew they had a talented roster with some game-breaking, big-play type of guys,” Ellingson said. “It was an emphasis of making them earn it and limit the big play. We did a good job of it defensively.

Coach (Todd) Kuhn had a great scheme; our kids executed it well.”

With the Huskies’ defensive unit holding Rockford off the scoreboard, Albany finally took advantage on the offensive end.

After struggling to finish drives in the first half, the Huskies hit on two big passing plays for touchdowns in the third quarter: a 45-yard highlight-reel grab from Jack Rieland and an 18-yard touchdown reception from Ethan Meyer. Both balls were thrown by Andrew Olson, who went 10-for-24 with 138 yards.

“To our kids’ credit, they kept battling,” Ellingson said.

Rockford connected on a 35-yard pass play for the game-tying touchdown in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter to send the game to overtime. There, the Huskies were stifled on their offensive possession before the Rockets earned rare yards on the ground to clinch their fifth win of the campaign.

“Defense and special teams really went our way, (along with) yardage, first downs and a lot of categories you look at,” Ellingson said. “Unfortunately, we didn’t have more points than them.”

Albany will look to clean up its mistakes and regain its winning form against the Minnewaska Area Lakers at 7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 13, at Michael Field at Herges Stadium in Albany.

ALB RCK

0 0 14 0 0-14 0 7 0 7 6-20 Albany results: Passing: Olson 10-for-24, 138 yards, 2 TDs. Rushing: Adam Dennis 16 carries-48 yards.

Receiving: Rieland 2 catches-65 yards-1 TD.

Volleyball sweeps Little Falls

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford volleyball team had a happy trip back home from their match with Little Falls after defeating the Flyers in three sets.

The Huskers won 25-21, 25-9, 25-18 Oct. 9 at Little Falls High School in Little Falls.

“The girls played a great game tonight playing as a team and it showed,” said Molly Klatt, head coach.

“We hope to carry this energy further as we finish out our season in the next week.”

Makenna Hohbein led the team in serves with 22, seven aces and eight kills.

Maddy Mitchell piled up 11 digs and 33 set assists.

“Marissa Nienaber played a great night at the net with two blocks,” Klatt said.

Swimming, diving drop close match

BY MIKE KOSIK | STAFF WRITER

The Holdingford High School girls swimming and diving team lost a close match to Morris/Minnewaska 54-48.

The Huskers hosted the meet Oct. 3 at Holdingford High School in Holdingford.

No individual results were made available before press.

MIDMNSPORTS gives you up-to-date information on all the Melrose and Sauk Centre high school athletics.

Go to MIDMNSPORTS.COM MIDMNSPORTS has the live stream of the next game, watch your favorite team “live” with Mark Knoblauch on MIDMNSPORTS. Facebook.com/Midmnsports PH41-1F-MT

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Royalton 3, Holdingford 1 The Huskers played a close match against Royalton on the road Oct. 5, falling 3-1 at Royalton High School in Royalton.

The Royals won the first two sets 25-22, 25-23, with the Huskers taking the third 25-20. Royalton won the fourth and deciding set 25-22.

Gabby Bruns had 30 serves, five for aces, and 22 digs. Hohbein had 15 kills and Ava Hagerty had three blocks. Mitchell recorded 66 set assists.

“We played a tight game tonight, but Royalton fought hard and it showed,” Klatt said. “It was an enjoyable game, and we are learning how to stick together on the court.”

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Page 14 | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2023 | THE STAR POST

Remarkable regular season reaches conclusion Albany soccer opens section competition Oct. 12

BY MIKE KOSIK STAFF WRITER

The Albany Huskies girls soccer team capped a remarkable regular season and will open Section 8A competition at home this week. In its first year competing at the varsity level, the Huskies finished 11-4 overall and 5-3 in the conference.

Albany will host St. John’s Prep at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 12, at Michael Field at Herges Stadium in Albany.

The Huskies are seeded No. 2 in Section 8A South.

PHOTOS BY MIKE KOSIK If Albany defeats St. John’s Callie Holthaus (from left), Brynn Anderson, Savanna Pelzer and Kristina Dotseth celebrate Anderson’s goal in the second half against Fergus Falls Oct. 3 on Michael Field at Herges Stadium Prep, they will advance to the semifinals at the higher in Albany. Pelzer scored the other two goals in a 3-1 win. seed Saturday, Oct. 14.

Pelzer scored two goals expected. We were really Albany’s goal. Goaltender Little Falls 2, Albany 1 and Brynn Anderson buried just proud of our girls for Alyssa Sand had 14 saves.

Albany’s final regular Albany 3, Fergus Falls 1 one. Callie Holthaus picked keeping their cool and still season game was on the fighting hard.” up an assist.

The Huskies scored road at Little Falls High The Huskies lost to CaSand made eight saves.

School in Little Falls, where two goals in the first half thedral the night before 5-0. Eva Schwenzfeier sets to kick the ball against Fergus Falls Oct. 3 “It was an intense and one in the second they suffered just their on Michael Field at Herges Stadium in Albany. The Huskies won “I think it was a nice fourth loss by a score of 2-1 against Fergus Falls Oct. 3 battle,” said Samantha Tate, 3-1 in their final regular season home game. co-head coach. “They were bounce-back,” Tate said. at Michael Field at Herges Oct. 5 a lot more physical than we Savanna Pelzer scored Stadium in Albany.

Co-op crowned champions

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa/Melrose 14U fastpitch softball team consists of Fae Duevel (front, from left), Morgan Funk, Emalee Klasen, Paige Funk and Hannah Welle; (back, from left) assistant coach Doug Welle, Lydia Primus, Lillian Thompson, Paighton Oeltjenbruns, Mya Worms, McKenna Mueller, Celia Schoenberg and coach Eric Primus. The squad captured first place in the Albany goaltender Alyssa Sand saves a shot attempt against Fergus Falls Oct. 3 on Michael Field gold division of the Alexandria Fall Softball League, defeating No. 1-seeded Willmar by scores of 10-7 and 12-5. Not pictured are Emma Roelike and Jaylynn “JJ” Mayers. at Herges Stadium in Albany. Sand brought in eight saves against the Otters.

SALUTING GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT HOLDINGFORD HIGH SCHOOL

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What is your favorite part about football? Seeing our hard work and determination pay off on Friday nights, along with spending two hours a day making jokes with close friends.

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Parents: Brian and Michelle Heinen

What is your most memorable moment playing football? This year against Royalton.

We’ve had a rough couple of years against them and it was such a great feeling to shut them out on their home field. Although, I still think my most memorable moment is yet to come.

Accomplishment: Senior captain on the Holdingford High School football team

What other activities are you involved in at Holdingford High School? Baseball, basketball and leadership council.

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How do you try to make a difference at school? Encouraging other students to get involved in team sports or clubs.

What is one item on your bucket list? After high school, I am going to continue to lift and attempt to surpass the 1,000-pound club.

I want to get stronger and better myself.

What teacher/coach has made an impact on your life? He hasn’t been my coach for some time other than Legion baseball, but Josh Opatz has done a lot for me. Josh has taught me to push myself further than I thought I could and that you need to stay mentally sharp and not overthink things.

What are you thankful for today? The opportunities I am blessed with. I am grateful for amazing friends and family that surround me and make me a better person.

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What is your favorite way to spend a day off? At the gym lifting. I enjoy lifting weights more than I do playing any sport. I love the mental challenge, the need for discipline and the constant physical battle, but I love to push myself and see how strong and fit I can really be.

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DYNAM TE DUTCHMEN SALUTING GREAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT MELROSE AREA HIGH SCHOOL

Alea Berscheit Parents: Jeremy and Tracy Berscheit Accomplishment: Senior middle hitter on the Melrose Area High School volleyball team

What do you like most about being in volleyball? I love the team. My coaches are great. It is so much fun playing the sport with amazing teammates.

What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned in a class recently? In Spanish class, learning about the Spanish movie we are watching.

What is your most memorable experience in a match? This year playing BOLD (Bird Island-Olivia-Lake Lillian District). We played well against them and had good hits.

What teacher or coach has made an impact on your life? All of my coaches encourage me to get better and try to help me in different ways. They are always pushing me to become better.

What other activities are you involved in at school? Gymnastics and track and field.

What is your favorite restaurant and the meal you order? Pizza Hut and their stuffed crust pizza.

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How do you try to make a difference at school? By being a positive person for others.

How do you like to spend free time?

Hanging out with friends.

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