ST. PAUL, Minn. – Katie Kollar has announced that she will not return as the head women’s basketball coach at Macalester College. Kollar spent six seasons as the Scots’ head coach, guiding the team to its best season in 13 years this past winter.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Coach Katie Kollar for her outstanding leadership of our women’s basketball program” Macalester Director of Athletics Donnie Brooks said. “Under her guidance, Macalester emerged as a formidable opponent and fierce competitor in the MIAC. Katie brought stability that allowed us to grow our roster and establish a strong, resilient team culture. Her sharp eye for talent and relentless recruiting efforts have laid a foundation we’re proud of and one that positions us for continued success.”

Kollar steadily built the program into a competitive team in the MIAC. In her third year at Macalester in 2021-22, Kollar led the Scots to their most conference wins since the 2011-12 season. That improvement coincided with the recruitment and arrival of Peyton Starks ’25 and Katherine Norquist ’25, who both would earn All-MIAC accolades in their careers. Starks ended up leading the conference in scoring three straight years, the first MIAC women’s basketball player to accomplish the feat on record, and became the first Scot to be chosen the MIAC Offensive Player of the Year in 2024-25. Macalester went 12-13 overall this past year, compiling the most victories in a season since the 2011-12 team also finished 12-13.

Kollar also contributed to Macalester Athletics as chair of the department’s diversity, equity and inclusion committee. She also was selected to coach at the 2023 NCAA College Basketball Academy.

“I’d like to thank Macalester College, the Athletics Department, and the entire Mac community for the opportunity you all gave me over the last six years,” Kollar said. “I’m incredibly grateful to have worked and served alongside you all and I am proud of everything we have accomplished as a program. It is bittersweet to be leaving, but I know the women’s basketball program is in a great place and I am truly excited to see its continued growth and success. Team 47 and beyond – love y’all and stay relentless!”

A native of Johnstown, N.Y., Kollar graduated from Nazareth College in 2012 with a degree in business administration. She earned her Master of Education degree in athletic administration from Springfield College in 2015. Kollar began her coaching career at Averett University before serving as an assistant at Springfield for two seasons. She then spent four seasons as the head coach at SUNY-Cobleskill before coming to Macalester in 2019.

A national search for Macalester’s next women’s basketball will begin immediately.

Election Day is approaching, and the Gaston School District has two open seats on the school board.

The 2025 special district election is set for May 20. All candidates have filed their paperwork, and ballots were mailed to voters April 30.

In Gaston, two school board seats are up for election — and both are contested. A total of five candidates are in the running this year, with one bringing previous experience in helping lead the local district.

Gary Sarbacher, Position 2

Newcomer Gary Sarbacher is one of two candidates competing to take on the vacated Position 2 seat on the Gaston school board.

An application engineer at Synopsys Inc., Sarbacher previously worked for Intel as a mask designer and physical design engineer. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electronic engineering from DeVry University.

Sarbacher coaches multiple teams for Gaston Youth Sports while also running two after-school music programs.

“If elected, I’ll be accountable to the public by working closely with the board, teachers and parents to creatively solve complex issues,” Sarbacher said in the Washington County voters’ pamphlet. “I’ll drive effective spending of our tax dollars to support the longevity and quality of our campus, materials and employees.”

Sarbacher faces fellow newcomer Erica Stark for Position 2. The winner will serve a four-year term.

Erica Stark, Position 2

Erica Stark is making a bid to take on Position 2 for the Gaston school board.

Stark, who works as a part-time driver for Mid-Columbia Bus Company and as a winemaking consultant, has previous experience in various roles in the wine industry and market management. She attended Chemeketa Community College and studied viticulture and enology through an online program at UC Davis.

The candidate also has experience coaching softball and baseball for Gaston Youth Sports.

“My hopes are to bring some reality into the equality-focused school environment, putting strength back into the community and moving away from the data-driven confusion,” Stark said in a social media post. “I believe we need to use our assets as a small community and small school to prepare our children for the big bad world.”

Stark faces fellow newcomer Gary Sarbacher for Position 2. The winner will serve a four-year term.

Faye L. Claire, Position 3

Newcomer Faye L. Claire is in the running to take on the Position 3 seat on the Gaston school board.

Claire, who works as a technical program manager at Intel, has experience as a teaching assistant and tutor. She holds an associate degree in natural sciences from San Joaquin Delta College, as well as a bachelor’s in chemistry and a doctorate in inorganic physical chemistry from UC Davis.

“I am committed to working as a team to address areas of concern made visible from parents and teachers, making post-pandemic adjustments to help students and educators reach their goals,” Claire said in the Washington County voters’ pamphlet. “By prioritizing high-quality instruction and collaboration, we can strengthen our school and prepare students for success.”

Claire faces fellow newcomer Kathe Welch and incumbent TJ Johnson for Position 3 on the school board. The winner will serve a four-year term.

TJ Johnson, Position 3

Incumbent TJ Johnson aims to once again serve the Gaston School District on board Position 3.

Johnson, an architect, has an occupational background in advanced research and development as well as in the high-tech education and nonprofit sectors. He holds a bachelor’s degree in information technology from the University of Phoenix.

The incumbent has experience in contract negotiations and curriculum adoption with Position 3, and he previously served in Position 5, working on the policy subcommittee and educational program review. He also has experience on the Oregon School Boards Association Legislative Policy Committee.

“With roots in Gaston from generations before and after me in this district and community, as well as dear friends like family, I want to serve the district which prepared me for life in many ways,” Johnson said in the Washington County voters’ pamphlet. “Parents and community members have brought a number of concerns to my attention, and I would be honored to ensure such concerns have a voice in the larger board body.”

Johnson is challenged by newcomers Faye L. Claire and Kathe Welch for Position 3. The winner will serve a four-year term.

Kathe Welch, Position 3

Kathe Welch has her sights set on Position 3 on the Gaston school board.

A retired educator who taught middle school and high school art, Welch has an associate degree in communication from the Art Institute of Seattle and a bachelor’s degree in studio art from California State University, Stanislaus.

“I am a retired middle and high school art teacher and spent my career advocating for students. I think time spent in the classroom provides a good background for a school board member,” Welch said in the Washington County voters’ pamphlet. “It taught me that public education is essential and must be equally accessible to all students and that their learning environment must be safe and conducive to student growth.”

Welch is up against fellow newcomer Faye L. Claire and incumbent TJ Johnson for Position 3. The winner will serve a four-year term.

By Jeff Helfrich, Managing Editor

ROCHELLE — On Thursday, the Rochelle Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Dinner at the the City of Rochelle and Rochelle Municipal Utilities’ southside campus. 

The event saw remarks by Chamber Executive Director Tricia Herrera and Rochelle Mayor John Bearrows. 11 awards were presented to local businesses and organizations. 

“I am proud of the community I grew up in and now serve,” Herrera said. “Rochelle is an amazing community and the residents are a shining example of hardworking, midwestern values. Cheers to another great year at the Rochelle Chamber.”

A surprise award kicked off the night, with Ralfie’s BBQ and Catering and The 302 receiving the Community Impact Award. The businesses are owned by Ralf and Tricia Herrera.

“What makes them so special is the many ways they give back,” Chamber Board President Kari Andrist said. “They’re always willing to step up and support the youth of this community by sponsoring a team, being part of a fundraiser, or donating a dinner before a big game.”

The Retailer of the Year Award was presented to Rochelle Ace Hardware.

“They set themselves apart from the big box stores by providing excellent customer service,” Chamber Board Vice President Haley Brill said. “You’re always welcomed by a friendly smile. They support youth sports in town by carrying a full line of Hubs apparel and participate in Chamber programs.”

Chamber Board Member Matt Gerard presented the Family Business of the Year Award to Audyn Boutique, which is located downtown and run by the Hulthen family.

“Their beautiful clothing selection lines the window of their downtown storefront,” Gerard said. “They use their beautiful photography and expertise in social media to promote their sophisticated styles. They’ve made themselves a part of the community, while not being afraid to reach out to other communities to bring shoppers to Rochelle and their storefront.”

Chamber Board Member Ben Dougherty presented the Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Erin Bacon of Destiny Studios.

“She uses her creative thinking to uplift others, spark collaboration and create a lasting impact, beyond just the bottom line,” Dougherty said. “She’s behind the scenes at countless community events donating her time, heart and talents to make them shine.”

City Council Member Rosaelia Arteaga presented the Restaurant of the Year Award to Los 3 Molcajetes.

“This family is very giving and humble,” Arteaga said. “They’re always willing to help with something, even if it’s last minute. They always contribute and they’re always willing to participate in anything. This is the true meaning of the American dream to come here as a dishwasher and become a restaurant owner.

Chamber Board Member Kris Wexell presented Roiel Scoop Ice Cream with the Small Business of the Year Award.

“They’ve taken a quaint little downtown space and made it a place for families in our community and visitors,” Wexell said. “They support Rochelle Township High School athletic programs and rescue animals where possible and have made themselves a part of our community.”

Chamber Board Treasurer Brandon Svela presented the Welcome to Rochelle Award to  Rochelle Book Hub, the city’s newest bookstore located inside Cypress House.

“Her love for reading was a catalyst to starting her own business,” Svela said. “She has retail sales and has started book clubs, reaching out to those that share her passion for literature. She covers all genres of books and reaches out to the youth of the community to engage with them.”

Chamber Board Member Ashley Bick presented the Community Partner of the Year award to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation, which recently marked 20 years and $1.3 million in philanthropic work in the community.

“The community has embraced RACF’s philanthropic mission and employers and families make contributions and honor loved ones,” Bick said. “They’re a group that’s fueled by giving back to the local community that results in a wide impact and support staying local.”

Andrist presented O’Rorke Construction with the Legacy Award, as its owners recently retired at marked the end of the business’s long and storied run in the community.

“We’re fortunate to celebrate a business that has maintained a high standing over the years,” Andrist said. “What started in 1987 as a family business stayed true to its principles of hard work, dedication, attention to detail, and craftsmanship.”

City of Rochelle GIS Coordinator Casey Heuer was presented with the Chamber Delegate of the Year Award by Christa McGrath.

“We like to say that chamber delegates serve as the face of the chamber, but sometimes, we serve as the heart of it too,” McGrath said. “Casey is no exception to that. I am continually impressed with her dedication and willingness to always help with whatever is needed.”

Herrera presented her Director’s Award to the City of Rochelle Street Department. 

“They work tirelessly behind the scenes of our community without proper thanks or praise,” Herrera said. “They work in extreme temperatures and are assigned crazy tasks as part of their daily routine. We’re proud to recognize them for the work they put in for our residents.”

Bearrows made closing remarks at the end of the event and thanked Rochelle’s business community for its work over the past year.

“The Rochelle Chamber of Commerce serves as a cornerstone for local businesses,” Bearrows said. “It fosters economic growth and strengthens our community spirit. It has unwavering support for entrepreneurs large and small. When our businesses prosper, the entire community reaps the rewards.”

Lucie Devier, a French-born tennis professional and former Division 1 standout at the University of Mississippi, is launching an ambitious youth tennis program called Rising Rackets aimed at cultivating professional-level athletes.

Leveraging her experience as a D1 athlete and her leadership of youth programs at the Goose Creek Tennis Club, Devier, alongside the General Manager and Director of Raquet Sports Alexa Bortles, is poised to transform the local tennis landscape and nurture the next generation of Mississippi tennis talent.

“I strive to make tennis fun for young children while equipping them with fundamental

skills,” Devier said. “I believe we have an unprecedented opportunity to invest in young Mississippi players.”

Born in Étréchy, France, she was a member of the Ole Miss tennis team and graduated in May of 2024. She has since been working as a tennis pro at the Goose Creek Tennis Club. She is experienced in teaching all ages and levels and holds an 18U French coaching certification. She is a French National Champion in doubles and reached the quarterfinals in the national singles tournament.

Earlier this year, Devier launched the Rising Rackets program. It’s available for youth ages 3 to 12 and inspired by European developmental principles. This progression system incorporates the individualism of tennis in a fun environment where players have the chance to level up and celebrate their achievements at a graduation ceremony every 6-12 weeks.

The larger vision for Goose Creek Tennis is for the Rising Rackets program to feed into an elite-level Junior Tennis Academy currently led by Alexa Bortles who wants to make Mississippi a nationally recognized contender.

This will include a multifaceted player development and training program that will cover sports psychology, nutrition, fitness, visual film study, and preventative and restorative body care.

Registration for the summer program is now open. You do not have to be a member to participate.

Find out more by visiting https://www.goosecreekclub.com/risingrackets or call 662-380-5505.

The three-day raffle grossed $57,625 CAD ($41,327 USD) with net funds benefitting Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. A winner of 50% of the jackpot was identified and chose to remain anonymous. The raffle, available to fans in-venue and online to all residents throughout the province of Quebec, was the first to be held during an MMA event at the arena.

“We were thrilled to partner with UFC for the 50/50 raffle at UFC 315,” said Geneviève Paquette, General Manager of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation. “Thanks to the generous support of UFC, the spectators, and a dedicated team of volunteers, these funds will help support vital programs for underprivileged youth. The Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation’s flagship BLEU BLANC BOUGE program continues to inspire thousands of children across Quebec, promoting healthy, active lifestyles.”