SUN Thisweek Burnsville and Eagan by Sun Thisweek

www.SunThisweek.com Special Section Senior Lifestyles ion Highlighting A Special Sect: Volunteering focus This month’s

ir ncentrate theive Volunteers come erat op co ho at rts effo

energy. to betwoman of constant and talents “Using my giftsty is important to ter my communi worked me,” said Rutschke. retired nurse, joining Rutschke, a care before BY EMILY HEDGES in home health She spent 10 years WRITER CONTRIBUTING area the Red Cross. the five-state retiring, n and Diane traveling around can mobile. Since Shirl Amundso volunteer work with the blood that same energy into at Rutschke believeLike so many of the has thrown tirelessly she Park She works begin at home. n, is Gramercy volunteerism. of and, like Amundso two donate residents her church in Eagan, the improving cooperative. Cooperative to active in her out of the house. I love and effort a their time for oth“It gets me ings and building people, caring safe. I their surroundbe proud of. dealing with to sure they’re doing making community a cooperative,” said and and ers, , and be out there “We’re just need to “We try to cooperate here said. Amundson. things,” she on several committees, to make living we all do things enjoyable. That’s my works building She marketin g, at the Gramercyjob,” she said. She is also including the committees. group that main volunteerworks with the comand social Gals, a on Amundson e of sale and serves part of Gramercy for a wide-rang munity rummage Shelf. e to find enterraises money the local Food I the buildthe social committe causes, including speakers for all work together. tainment and y, so “At a coop, we a farming communit speakers ing. been part of came from first-Friday ty, and have always “I arrange landscaping, cooperatives health, communi enterhere is vibrant, Gramercy Park Cooperative book on topics of govern ourmy life. Everybody stand in front of of residents. also work to dinstuff done and self-care. I and Diane Rutschke funded by the volunteer efforts eager to get we have catered Amundson (right) projects two years ago. selves,” she said. tainment when “I don’t remember Shirl of the many improvement For this senior her husband said. one ways. lost five just she agrees. who about ners,” in different and needed Amundson for it. It was do about feeling t years it inspires me.” at home, “People volunteer volunteering said, ‘Can you aren’t as visible ing citizen, it’s all others, and your retiremen to her efforts Maybe they volunteer years ago. Someoneit happened.” In addition and spending and helping others. hours help- vocal, but they are still how is many you That when spends this?’ more connecting with Amundson Commun ity time or goods.” believes that a need for Amundson help, volthe Eagan Rutschke shares “There’s always Some people want serves as a available to ing out at Neighbor Diane on volunmake yourself She most often for greeting philosophy people to volunteer. ties find you. their missing is a Center. Amundso n’s d makes herresponsible alone. I feel like is what God unteer opportuni to do things t room host people attending events teerism. The 66-year-ol needs to get to be left volunteering “Being available for what ing. It’s importan out. I think and serving Amundson. self available known within the way of volunteer me a reason to get at the center. us for,” said gives g,” and keep involved. done, and is ty as a made for myself. It “I stay busy and do somethin way of taking Gramercy Park communi up, get dressedn. “It’s important for That’s one important Amundson, said Amundso aging to get involved care of yourself,” said being with those who are people. I like with other

Mature Lifestyles Special Section Included in this issue

Burnsville | Eagan September 21, 2012 | Volume 33 | Number 30

Clegg announces retirement He’ll leave District 191, education next June 30 by John Gessner Sun Thisweek

School District 191 Superintendent Randy Clegg announced Sept. 17 he’ll serve out the school year and retire, saying he thinks the

School Board is “looking the board subsequently for a different style of leaddowngraded Clegg’s perership.” formance in his latest job Clegg, 56, said he’ll leave review. the Burnsville-Eagan-Sav Yet board officials – and age district – and probably Clegg – say they’re pleased education – next June 30, with reforms he’s made when his three-year contract Randy Clegg over four years in a district expires. whose rapidly changing de His announcement comes after mographics have added urgency to a turbulent period in which the dis- narrowing race- and income-based trict faced public outrage over the achievement gaps. $255,000 buyout of former district “He brought a laser-like focus to administrator Tania Chance, and these four questions: What do you

want students to learn, how are you going to teach it, how are you going to know if they learned it, and if they didn’t, what are you going to do about it?” board Chair Ron Hill said. “That was critical to the kids that we have in this school district.” Board Vice Chair Sandy Sweep praised Clegg’s educational expertise and his work on aligning district curriculum. “I am confident in the direction See Clegg, 11A

Opinion

Partners For Success works Partners For Success shows that getting parents and families involved in a child’s learning leads to gains in the classroom. Page 4A

Photo submitted

thisweekend Photo submitted

Daniel Busquets of Eagan will travel to Las Vegas in February to compete in the National Grocers Association’s Best Bagger Contest after taking first place in the statewide competition. The 17-year-old had worked at Kowalski’s in Eagan for only four months at the time.

Eagan is again home to Minnesota’s best bagger Kowalski’s employee took home first place with only four months’ experience Middle Ages come to life Caponi Art Park in Eagan is offering guests a break from life in the 21st century when it hosts the Medieval Fair on Sept. 30. Page 12A

sports

by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

With only four months of experience, 17-year-old Daniel Busquets of Eagan never imagined he would place in the Minnesota Best Bagger contest. Not only did he earn the Balance Award, he took first place last month in the

annual Minnesota Grocer Association contest. “I was surprised and very excited to go to Vegas,” said Busquets, who works at Kowalski’s in Eagan. In February, the teen will travel to Las Vegas to vie in the national competition.

Both the state and national contests judge baggers on their speed, technique, style, attitude, and how evenly they distribute weight among three bags. The high school senior began working at Kowalski’s in May to earn a little See Bagger, 3A

A 47-unit affordable townhome development called Northwood is set to open in the summer of 2013 in Eagan. The development will be operated by the Dakota County Community Development Agency under its Family Townhome Project, which is aimed at providing affordable housing for moderate-income families with children under age 18. Northwood’s design will look similar to Carbury Hills in Rosemount (pictured above).

Affordable housing project set to open in 2013 CDA development will provide affordable housing for moderateincome families, officials say by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

A 47-unit affordable housing complex is set to open in Eagan next year. The Dakota County Community Development Agency plans to open Northwood Townhomes along the Northwood Circle in the summer of 2013. “The goal of workforce housing developments like this is to provide safe, affordable housing for fami-

lies,” said Kari Gill, deputy executive director of the Dakota County Community Development Agency. The $5.6 million project is part of the CDA’s Family Townhome Project, which is designed for moderate-income families with children under age 18. Northwood will be the largest development under the program, which includes See Housing, 11A

Dakota County could be bellwether Lawmakers look to the suburbs to determine control of Legislature by T.W. Budig Sun Thisweek

Wildcats lead the pack The Eagan girls cross country team is showing why its top ranking is deserved. Page 14A

Index Opinion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4A Announcements . . . . . . . 7A Public Notices. . . . . . . . . 7A Thisweekend. . . . . . . . . 12A Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14A Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . 16A

General Information 952-894-1111 Distribution 952-846-2070 Display Advertising 952-846-2011 Classified Advertising 952-846-2000

Democratic leaders look to the suburbs for critical seats they need to take back the Republican-controlled Legislature. Currently, Republicans grip the Senate by holding 37 seats against the Democrats’ 29. One seat that is vacant — held by former Sen. John Harrington, DFL-St. Paul, who is resigning to assume law enforcement duties with the Met Council — is a safe seat for Democrats. Democrats would need to pick up four seats to recapture the Senate. Republicans wrested control of the Senate from Democrats two years ago, breaking a Democratic lock going back almost 40 years. “I feel pretty good about it — yeah,” Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk, DFLCook, said of winning back

the Senate. Though speaking of the economy and education as key issues, voters “can feel” an aura of mismanagement radiating from the Republican Senate Caucus, Bakk argued. He spoke of a “cascade of missteps,” pointing to a recent administrative law judge panel finding that 11 Republican senators and former House Speaker Steve Sviggum broke state campaign law by distributing taxpayer-paid literature containing a political fundraising link. The senators, including former Sen. Chris Gerlach of Apple Valley, and Sviggum, who has insisted he’s the one to blame, were given small fines. The public may not know or understand the details about the ruling or the extraSee Elections, 5A

Photo by John Gessner

DECA members and seniors in Meggan Malone’s advanced marketing class at Burnsville High School include, from left, Joe McGraw, Shelby Hamblin, Talon DeWitz, Riley Robertson, Sam Dimmen, Justin Clark, Adam Saba, Mayowa Lekuti, Andrew Suel and Taylor Smith.

Blaze Burger just a warm-up for BHS DECA students by John Gessner Sun Thisweek

The Blaze Burger takes some work to finish and even to fathom, depending on your appetites. “It’s spicy,” said Sam Dimmen, a DECA member and senior at Burnsville High School, for which the burger is named. “It’s got jalapenos

and pepper jack cheese. It’s got a fried egg on it.” The Blaze Burger will be available during October at the Burger Jones restaurant in the Aurora Village Mall south of County Road 42 and east of County Road 5 in Burnsville. BHS DECA members have more than a meal-

time interest in the bold burger. For every one sold during October, Burger Jones will donate $1 to BHS DECA. The fund-raiser is part of a partnership between Burger Jones and its parent company, Parasole, and DECA, a co-curricuSee DECA, 3A

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

Lakeville woman Senate District 51 candidate forum slated killed in Eagan crash All candidates have indicated their intent to participate by Tad Johnson Sun Thisweek

��

sor with the law firm Faegre Baker Daniels LLP, will moderate the forum. The forum is being organized by the Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce and Rasmussen College with assistance from Sun Thisweek. People who attend the forum will be allowed to submit questions that will be considered for inclusion. The forum will be filmed by Eagan Cable Access Television and be aired on Channel 16 several times after the forum. Among the topics that will be addressed during the forum are education, jobs and health care.

Burnsville and Eagan voters in Senate District 51 will have a chance to hear candidates talk about a range of topics during a forum at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26. Candidates for Senate and House in the district have all indicated their intent to participate in the forum at Rasmussen College in Eagan. The candidates are incumbent Republicans Sen. Ted Daley and Reps. Diane Anderson (51A) and Doug Wardlow (51B). The challenging DFLers are Jim Carlson, Sandra Masin (51A) and Laurie HalverTad Johnson can be reached son (51B). Phil Stalboerger, senior at tad.johnson@ecm-inc.com government relations advi- or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

van heading westbound through the intersection. The Mini Cooper was pushed into another car at the red light on southbound Highway 149. Dale Brodin sustained non-life threatening injuries in the crash. The drivers of the other two vehicles were uninjured. Everyone involved in the crash were wearing seat belts, and no alcohol was involved, according to the State Patrol.

A Lakeville woman was killed last week in a threevehicle crash in Eagan. The crash occurred at approximately 1:50 p.m. Sept. 12 at the intersection of Highway 55 and Highway 149, killing 68-year-old Sandra Brodin who was riding a car that turned into the path of a minivan. According to the State Patrol, Brodin’s husband, Dale, 69, turned left in his Mini Cooper from eastbound Highway 55 to Jessica Harper is at jesnorthbound Highway 149 sica.harper@ecm-inc.com or and was struck by a mini- facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Fitness center open house The Eagan Community Center will host a fitness center open house Oct. 1-7. This event provides people the opportunity to try the fitness center the entire week for free, including

group fitness classes. For more information, visit www.eagancommunitycenter.com or (651) 6755550. The Eagan Community Center is located at 1501 Central Parkway.

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

Bagger, from 1A extra cash. Within a few months he heard about the competition and decided to enter. Busquets trained for about three weeks to improve his speed, technique and balance among the bags. “He was very dedicated,” said Eagan Kowalski’s human resources coordinator Brittany Wellvang, who trained Busquets for the competition. “I haven’t seen anyone work quite that hard in a long time.” Though he won’t be old enough to gamble in Las DECA, from 1A lar club whose mission is helping prepare students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. DECA, an international association formerly known in the United States as Distributive Education Clubs of America, was absent from BHS for more than 20 years before business education teacher Meggan Malone revived it last year. Now seniors in her advanced marketing class, who are also DECA members, are putting their skills to the test in a pair of projects with Burger Jones and Parasole. The first is promoting the $10 Blaze Burger. The second is designing an ad campaign for Burger Jones that the students will be able to submit for the state DECA competition. “That’s really going to be the big project,” Malone said. “The students are going to have to be really creative and think on a different level. That’s why we’re getting our feet wet with this (Blaze Burger) promotion.” Their goal is sales of 15

Vegas — the legal age is 21 — Busquets said he is excited to visit the city for the first time, and hopes to drive a dune buggy while out there. Busquets’s recent award is far from his only significant accomplishment. At only 17 years old, Busquets has started his first year of college at North Central University in Minneapolis through a high school Post Secondary Education Option program. Busquets said he is still researching colleges to attend after high school graduation this spring but is most interested in Whea-

ton College in Illinois where he expects to study international relations. Although Busquets is the first Kowalski’s employee in Eagan to take home first place at the contest, he is the second Eagan resident to do so in recent years. Blake Westling, of Byerly’s in Eagan won the Minnesota Best Bagger contest last year and took home second place in the national competition.

Blaze Burgers a day. (Customers will be able to pick and choose from among the exotic toppings, DECA member Joe McGraw noted.) “We’re going to use this homecoming week (Sept. 17 to 22) as a big way to advertise it,” Dimmen said. Social media, banners and possibly lawn signs and homecoming-game car flyers were being planned. “We want to especially get to the parents,” DECA member Taylor Smith said. “They’re the ones taking their kids out to dinner and wanting to support their schools.” The seniors were recently visited in class by a Parasole team that included Amber Helman, a manager at the Burnsville Burger Jones; Kip Clayton, Parasole’s vice president of marketing; Donna Fahs, a senior operations executive who oversees Burger Jones and other Parasole restaurant brands; and Sarah Nerison, marketing manager and social-media guru for Parasole Restaurant Holdings. “Getting DECA kids closer to the reality of what it’s like to have to sell something is, to me, pretty

exciting,” Clayton said. Once the Blaze Burger campaign is finished, “I’m going to work with them to kind of write a business plan for the next year, which takes much more of a broad-based view of what the restaurant is and what the challenges and opportunities are.” Burger Jones is a little edgy, not a button-down brand, Clayton said. “I think Burger Jones is such an engaging brand for the kids,” he said. “It kind of fits into their sense of humor.” The students’ marketing plan for the restaurant will run the gamut from identifying the target market to selecting advertising media and writing a budget. It will include setting sales goals and writing and delivering an executive summary. “The students don’t even realize they’re learning a ton as they put all this together,” Malone said. “People do this for a job. If some of the ideas are good, they (Parasole) are going to use them.”

Jessica Harper is at jessica. harper@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

John Gessner can be reached at john.gessner@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Opinion

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

360 Communities partners with Families for School Success by Lisa Lusk Special to Sun Thisweek

Reading proficiency is widely accepted as a major predictor of future school success. According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, students who do not read proficiently by third grade are four times more likely to leave high school without a diploma than proficient readers. And that leads to a whole host of challenges for not only the student, but for the community as a whole. This is why 360 Communities Partners For Success promotes literacy and parental involvement in students’ education from kindergarten through high school graduation. Partners For Success has family support workers in 27 schools in seven school districts in Dakota County working to remove barriers to school success for at-risk youth. A large portion of the work involves engaging families in their home and working with parents to provide tools to better equip them as a partner in their child’s education. In the 2011-2012 school year Partners For Success family support workers sat

Guest Columnist

Lisa Lusk

down with families and teachers to create 384 family learning plans to help engage parents and keep students on track to reach their potential. Structure and expectations at home can make all the difference between a student who struggles and one who succeeds. After all, according to the Michigan Department of Education, children spend 70 percent of their waking hours at home during the school year, including weekends and holidays. Helping students to learn and achieve their academic potential cannot be the sole responsibility of schools; parental involvement and engagement with their child’s academics at home is a critical part of a child’s success in school. According to Dr. Jeremy D. Finn of the

University at Buffalo’s Graduate School of Education, there are three kinds of parental involvement at home that are consistently associated with higher student achievement: • Actively organizing and monitoring a child’s time. • Helping with homework. • Discussing school matters. Partners For Success family support workers understand the important role of family life in a student’s success. They also understand the other needs a family may have and can tap a wide network of 360 Communities resources to surround a family with support. If a child is coming to school hungry, the family support worker can refer the family to one of five 360 Communities food shelves in Dakota County. If there is a safety issue at home, 360 Communities has two Lewis House domestic violence shelters. Family support workers are also very knowledgeable of other resources within the community and can assist families with accessing what they need by the relationships 360 Communities has with other organizations.

This partnership between school, homes and family support worker has demonstrated success. A 2011 study of the Partners For Success program conducted by the University of Minnesota Center for Applied Research and Educational Improvement found that 88 percent of students in the evaluation met, exceeded or made progress toward their reading goals, some by more than 200 percent. The study also found parents appreciated the greater sense of connection they developed with their schools through the family support workers. A bright future for all students is achievable with programs like Partners For Success, with dedicated educators and engaged families and communities. Discover more about 360 Communities Partners For Success by visiting 360Communities.org. Lisa Lusk is 360 Communities Partners For Success supervisor. 360 Communities’ mission is to provide hope and support to people by engaging communities to prevent violence, ensure school success and promote long-term self-sufficiency. Columns reflect the opinion of the author.

Letters Vote Kautz for dynamic community

representative who will put students first. On paper House District 56B Roz Peterson looks like she could be the person to fit that role, having served on the Lakeville School Board. But upon closer inspection of her record, nothing could be further from the truth. Not only did she lead the charge in closing Crystal Lake Elementary when it wasn’t absolutely necessary, uprooting students from a stable learning environment; but she laid off nearly 100 teachers then turned around and bought thousands of iPads. I recognize that technology is becoming increasingly more present in our everyday lives, but we need to have the right priorities. How many teachers could have been hired back? How much lower could class sizes be? An iPad is no replacement for a teacher when class sizes are soaring over 40 students. When you combine these poor choices with her record of supporting an excessive retirement buyout for a retiring superintendent, it becomes clear that Peterson has the wrong priorities. She’s certainly not the person I would like representing our community and students at the Capitol. I’m voting no on Peterson’s misplaced priorities in November.

To the editor: Mayor Elizabeth Kautz has served Burnsville well. Much of what makes Burnsville the dynamic community it is today is a result of many key actions initiated by Kautz: i.e., business activity, the Medical Alliance (now ST(H)EM), the Heart of the City, the Performing Arts Center, expanded parks and recreation, clean water in our lakes, citizen participation and so much more. She managed to pull together a coalition of community leaders, volunteers and existing and new organizations, all working together to meet short- and long-term goals addressing improvements in our community. If Kautz is willing to continue to serve this community, the citizens of Burnsville are very fortunate to have a person with her energy, foresight and experience as its mayor. Change “for the sake of change” makes no sense, especially when, under her leadership, Burnsville has seen continuous change for the better: financial stability, growth and expansion in the private sector, improved quality of life, and citizen involvement in ongoing planning and development for the future. We proudly support Kautz for the coming term JENNI WOOD as she continues to make Lakeville Burnsville a superb city for Wardlow is us and our family. RICHARD and MARGUERITE DALY Burnsville

the best candidate

To the editor: State Rep. Doug Wardlow is the best candidate to represent Eagan in the Peterson poor Minnesota House of Representatives. As a lifelong choice for Eagan resident, Wardlow schools understands the issues facTo the editor: ing citizens of his commu As my son begins school nity. Wardlow has put getthis year I am reminded of ting Eagan residents back to the importance of electing a work and getting the econo-

my moving atop his priorities. In his first term as state representative, Wardlow helped pass many reforms that make Minnesota a more business friendly state. Wardlow, like Ronald Reagan, understands government does not create jobs, people do. He was awarded the Guardian of Small Business Award by the National Federation of Independent Businesses for his commitment to small business owners. Wardlow supported common sense reforms, like the photo ID constitutional amendment, which will close the door to fraud in our election system. He has supported Eagan schools by voting to increase funding by $100 per student over the course of the next two years. He was awarded the 2012 Best Friends of the Taxpayer Award by the Taxpayers League of Minnesota because of his effort to ensure every penny of taxpayer money is used wisely. Eagan needs genuine leadership and a representative who is not afraid to make tough decisions for our community in St. Paul. Wardlow is that person. I hope you will join me in supporting Wardlow for House. Kathi Weinzetl Eagan

Re-elect Workman

MIKE and JOYCE TURNER Burnsville Editor’s note: Mike Turner preceded Workman as the Dakota County commissioner in District 5.

State still owes schools To the editor: Two CPAs walked into a bar with $3 billion which had been stolen from the local schools. They bought rounds of drinks until $1.2 billion was left and then the police came. The second CPA declared that the thief was actually a hero for having the $1.2 billion still available and should get a reward. That is what Peggy Benson basically told us in her Aug. 10 letter while supporting Sen. Ted Daley’s claim of credit for a budget surplus. Minnesota schools are owed many times the amount in pocket at the state. CPA does not stand for Certifies Practically Anything (yet). Benson’s and Daley’s fiscal fairy tales of a surplus reflect poorly on CPAs and themselves. Some accountants at ENRON went to jail for this kind of lying. As a small business person, I support Jim Carlson who supports quality education which results in quality jobs and the supporting infrastructure.

To the editor: Liz Workman has done an excellent job of representing her constituents in her first term on the Dakota County Board of Commissioners. For many years Dakota County has been a leader, providing citizens with a BETTY FEDDE high level of services at the Eagan lowest tax rate in the state of Minnesota. Workman Those who look has done a great job of preserving that legacy. Her ex- to the future perience on the Burnsville deserve votes

Letters to the editor policy Sun Thisweek welcomes letters to the editor. Submitted letters must be no more than 350 words. All letters must have the author’s phone number and address for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be accepted. Letters reflect the opinion of the author only. Sun Thisweek reserves the right to edit all letters. Submission of a letter does not guarantee publication.

City Council has been very beneficial in her first term, enabling her to make significant contributions to the board. We urge to join us in supporting Workman for re-election to the Dakota County Board.

Photo Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rick Orndorf Sports Editors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andy Rogers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Shaughnessy Sales Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mike Jetchick Office Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ellen Reierson

15322 Galaxie Ave., Suite 219, Apple Valley, MN 55124 952-894-1111 fax: 952-846-2010 www.SunThisweek.com | Office Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Friday

To the editor: As I near the end of my eight years serving the citizens of Burnsville as a City Council member, I look back on all the progress we have made, and the challenges we have faced over the years, and how these relate to the future. While we all did not always agree on the issues we worked through, over time, we learned to approach each matter with thoughtfulness and respect for one another and for the citizens we represent. This was not always the case. Prior to 2005, some council members would bluster and pound their fists in disagreement and make decisions based on emotions. Or, as a last course of action, resort to name-calling over issues they did not agree with. This year’s election, as all elections, is very important to us all, and the direction that Burnsville will take going forward. Our policy makers must

continue to deliberate in a respectful and informed manner. This is what is working for Burnsville today and will continue to keep us moving in a positive direction. The citizens of Burnsville cannot and should not allow any future council member to continue to live in the past and try to resurrect issues that the market is already resolving. We need people with vision, consideration for others, and a desire to serve all of Burnsville. With that said, I ask you to please join me and my family, in looking to the future and cast your vote with us to elect for the first time, Suzanne Nguyen, who will bring new energy, a collaborative spirit and strong leadership to our City Council. With equal energy, I ask you to re-elect both Elizabeth Kautz and Mary Sherry to another four years of leading our city on a path that, thanks to their leadership, is working. I look forward to the future of our vibrant city with a feeling of excitement, and promise for continuing growth and a renewed prosperity. DAN GUSTAFSON Burnsville City Council

Fire Muster was a success To the editor: The 33rd version of the Burnsville Fire Muster and Community Celebration this year from Sept. 5-9 was an unqualified success due to the hard work of several committees and many volunteers. We are grateful to all our volunteers. As gate-staffing coordinator, I am very thankful for the work of the following organizations and people: Burnsville City Council members Mary Sherry, Bill Coughlin, Dan Gustafson and Mayor Elizabeth Kautz; Liz Workman; School District 191 Board of Education members Ron Hill, DeeDee Currier and Bob Vandenboom; Lions Club members Dave Moen, Terrie Moen, Christian Moen, Deb Mehr, Mickey Stanczak, Andy Stanczak, Mark Moen, Anita Johnson, Steve Knudsen, Peg Knudsen and Sandy Richter; Anchor Bank personnel Jim Louwagie, Maggie Kase, Emily Nichols and Erik Hegg; 360 Communities members Sal Mondelli, Jeff Mortensen, Scott Reindl and Tony Compton; volunteers Steve Schofield, Andrea Erickson and Sheila Schilling, Ruth Vander Laan, Rich Vander Laan, Terry Crichton, and Sue Kirk; Foundation 191 members Steve Fiebigger, John Christiansen, Pat Christiansen, Will Williams and Samoa Ali; Beyond the Yellow Ribbon members Tom Hansen, Jill Hansen, Joy Adams and BK Jungian; DARTS members Steve Haschig and MJ Haschig; and Clearwater Chiropractic Dr. Kristin Hammer and

Jennifer Hoffman. If I missed anyone, I apologize. I am grateful for your help. Thank you all. CHUCK ERICKSON Member Board of Directors Burnsville Fire Muster

Pothini for School Board To the editor: I believe Seema Pothini has the skills, experience and values to be a very effective member of the School District 191 School Board. She has served on districtwide committees including the diversity committee, is a former classroom teacher, is currently the president of two other nonprofit boards, and is very involved in her children’s school through classroom volunteering, the Parent-Teacher Organization, and the advisory council. As a former member of the ISD 191 School Board, I had the chance to work with many board members over the years. The most effective board members had a personal commitment to ensuring that all students succeed and excel, a willingness to cultivate family and community involvement throughout the district, an understanding of the complexities of education finance, an ability to clearly describe the district’s strengths and opportunities, and most importantly, a commitment to creating and supporting a shared vision for the district with the superintendent and fellow board members. Pothini is such a candidate. I encourage you to vote for Pothini for the School Board. GAIL MORRISON Savage

Voting for Anderson again To the editor: The most important thing for a state legislator to do is to make sure that limited taxpayer funds are spent wisely. That’s why I’m supporting state Rep. Diane Anderson, R-Eagan, for reelection to the Minnesota House. Previously, the Legislature and the governor agreed to meet budget shortfalls by, in part, delaying payments promised to school districts — the “school shift.” It wasn’t an ideal choice, but it was defensible under the circumstances. When the idea came around this last legislative session to make good on the state’s promise by repaying the shift, Anderson voted “yes.” Gov. Mark Dayton chose to veto that bill, saddling school districts with extra borrowing costs. Getting the priorities right is a measure of a legislator. By that standard, I plan to vote again for Anderson. John LaPlante Eagan

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

Elections, from 1A marital affair with a Senate staffer that drove Sen. Amy Koch, R-Buffalo, to resign as Senate majority leader, but they sense things have gone awry, Bakk argued. “I am confident we’re going to pick up seats in the suburbs,” said House Minority Leader Paul Thissen, DFL-Minneapolis. House Republicans currently hold 72 seats, House Democrats 61 seats, with one open-seat. Democrats would need to win six seats to regain control. Thissen argues that looking at the current head count is misleading. With lawmaker retirements and redistricting both House caucuses are essentially starting in the mid-50s and the battle is really over the remaining 24 seats, he explained. Fifteen seats are open. Thissen is “cautiously optimistic” House Democrats will regain control. He points to House races in Dakota County as “ground zero” in the suburban political fray, adding House Democrats look for success in Edina and in Eden Prairie, too. This election will not be a “wave” style election as seen in 2006, 2008 and 2010, Thissen argues. Thissen views the proposed same-sex marriage ban constitutional amendment as one factor that could bring young voters to the polls, which could help Democrats, he said. A youth surge could play a role in suburban House races where Republican lawmakers, in supporting the marriage amendment, voted against the grain of the district, he argued. Thissen views the political repercussions from a sex scandal involving Duluth DFL lawmaker Rep. Kerry Gauthier as limited to that district.

DFL State Party Chairman Ken Martin of Eagan is upbeat about a Democratic legislative revival and looks to the suburbs helping bridge the gap. “We have a number of legislative targets in the suburbs,” Martin said. Martin cites Senate District 49 in Edina as a district in which Democrats can win all three seats. If he had to bet on a race, he’d bet on former Republican Rep. Ron Erhardt of Edina, now running as a Democrat, to win House District 49A. “Yes, I am that certain about that race,” Martin said. Bakk looks to DFL Senate candidate Greg Clausen in Senate District 57 in Dakota County as a possible Senate Democratic win. “We have an awfully good candidate down there,” he said. “Bellwether” races are found in Dakota County, Martin explained, with former DFL state senator Jim Carlson, state representatives Sandra Masin and Will Morgan, all seeking to regain seats lost last election. “I think we have a good chance at all three,” Martin said. Martin views the proposed amendments on the ballot, Photo ID and the marriage ban, less about bringing out more voters than fired-up voters more likely to vote Democratic down the ticket. Republicans see things differently. Senate Majority Leader David Senjem, R-Rochester, indicated Senate Republicans are holding strong. “We’re getting frankly very good vibes (from voters),” he said. Senjem expressed confidence Senate Republicans would not only keep the majority but even pick up seats. “I don’t know who we’re going to lose,” Senjem said. “I’m confident we’ll be OK.”

��

Polling has shown that jobs and the economy are the leading concerns of voters, Senjem explained. He said the state economy is improving, and Senate Republicans are going to take some credit for the improvements seen and those yet to come. Senjem views the presidential race as “absolutely” impacting legislative races. It’s critical that Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney articulate his plans for improving the nation’s economy, Senjem explained. As for the Koch scandal, Senate Republican candidates say they’re not hearing about that at the front door, Senjem said. House Speaker Kurt Zellers, R-Maple Grove, said it’s too early to have a strong sense of how House Republicans will fare this election. “I feel confident we will hold the majority at the current number of seats,” Zellers said. There’s a “good chance” of House Republicans picking up seats, he explained. House Republican candidates include an impressive group of women candidates, Zellers said. Voters are most concerned about jobs and the economy, he said. “There’s nothing else that touches it,” Zellers said. The No. 2 issue for voters is one state lawmakers have no control over, he explained. That’s the national debt, he said. Like Bakk, Senjem, and Thissen, Zellers does not expect a “wave” style election in November. “It will be a one-on-one candidate year,” he said. Republican Party of Minnesota Chairman Pat Shortridge did not respond to an interview request. T.W. Budig can be reached at tim.budig@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

��

�

��

� ��

��

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

�� NOTICE OF SALE The following goods will be sold at public auction to cover storage liens. Sale to be conducted at North Star Mini Storage, 1900 West 143rd St., Burnsville, MN 55306 at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 10, 2012. North Star Mini Storage L.P. reserves the right to accept or decline any or all bids. UNIT #2000 Michael Doss 574 Wheelock Pkwy West St. Paul, MN 55130 Furniture UNIT #2222 Chad J. Duda 1401 W. 143rd St. #235 Burnsville, MN 55306 Furniture UNIT #2238 Amy C. Anderson 14652 Greenridge Lane Burnsville, MN 55306 Misc. Household, Electronics, Furniture UNIT #2115 Michael C. Hunter 1004 Knob Hill Road Burnsville, MN 55337 Furniture, Tools, Hockey Equipment UNIT #1114 Steve Shirley DCO 3-13 INF Regiment Ft. Jackson, SC 29207 Furniture, Bed, Electronics UNIT #1063 Barry Mackey 1401 W. Burnsville Pkwy #315 Burnsville, MN 55337 Misc. Household, Tools, Sporting Equip. UNIT #1148 Tim Wolfe 9300 Collegeview Road #221 Bloomington, MN 55437 Clothing, Ladder, Misc Household UNIT #4004 Warren Binion P.O. Box 1215 Burnsville, MN 55337 Misc. Items UNIT #3008 David R. Youngman 13645 Glendale Trail Savage, MN 55378 Tools, Bike, Shelving, Misc. UNIT #4055 Sandra K. Pickus 1721 Burnsville Pkwy. #305 Burnsville, MN 55337 Tools, Electronics, Collectibles UNIT #4014 Scott A. Leinum 1721 W. Burnsville Pkwy. Burnsville, MN 55337 Musical Instruments, Tools, Displays, Shelving, Misc. THE SALE WILL TAKE PLACE AT: North Star Mini Storage 1900 West 143rd Street Burnsville, MN 55306 3147409 9/21-9/28/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be held on September 24, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible by the Burnsville Planning Commission, 100 Civic Center Parkway, in the Council Chambers on the application of M.G. Astleford Company for an Interim Use Permit Amendment to continue soil processing and storage located west of Ladybird Lane, east of Dupont Avenue (commonly known as 900 Ladybird Lane). The application will be scheduled for the next appropriate City Council meeting following the Planning Commission meeting. All persons desiring to speak on this application are encouraged to attend. For more information concerning this request, please contact Planner Chris Slania (952) 895-4451 at the City of Burnsville. Chris Slania On Behalf of the Chair of the Burnsville Planning Commission 3146532 9/14-9/21/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Public Sale: SS MNRI, LLC doing business as Simply Self Storage intends to enforce its lien on certain personal property belonging to the following, at the facility. The sale will take place (unless otherwise withdrawn) on Wednesday October 10, 2012 on or after 9:30am at the Simply Self Storage location at 4025 Old Sibley Memorial Highway, Eagan, MN 55122 Phone 651-894-5550. This public sale will result in the goods being sold to the highest bidder. Certain terms and conditions apply. J. Lynch #118A Furniture, Plastic Tote, Bags V. Sandelin #148 Luggage, Boxes, Childrens Toys J. Velazquez #402B Furniture, Luggage, Baby Items

3145379

R. Palme #518D Black Plastic Bags 9/21-9/28/12

�� District 194 School Board Proceedings

This is a summary of the Independent School District No. 194 Special Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on the district website at or 8670 210th www.isd194.k12.mn.us Street W., Lakeville, MN 55044 The meeting was called to order at 6:02 p.m. All board members and administrators were present. Discussion held: Integration & equity/EL staffing and programming. Meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m. __________________________________ This is a summary of the Independent School District No.194 Regular School Board Meeting on Tues, August 28, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on the district website at www.isd194.k12.mn.us or District Office at 8670 210th Street W., Lakeville, MN 55044 The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. followed by pledge of allegiance. All board members and administrators were present. Consent agenda items approved: minutes of the meetings on August 14 and 21; employment recommendations, leave requests and resignations; wire transfers and investments as presented and donations. Consent agenda approved following discussion : payment of bills and claims subject to annual audit. Reports presented: CLEC update; 2012-13 student enrollment update. Adjournment at 7:39 p.m. 3151843 9/21/12

PUBLIC NOTICE ORDINANCE NO. 1274

��

CITY OF BURNSVILLE, MINNESOTA AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 10 OF THE BURNSVILLE CITY CODE, BEING THE ZONING TITLE OF THE CITY OF BURNSVILLE AURORA INVESTMENT LLC CASE FILE NO. DEV12-0024 The City Council of the City of Burnsville ordains as follows: Section 1. Title 10 of the Burnsville City Code is hereby amended to allow for exterior sign deviations for a Best Buy Mobile Store in accordance with the Amended Planned Unit Development Agreement on file in the City Clerk's office dated September 4, 2012, for the following described property located within the City of Burnsville, Minnesota: Lot 1, Block 1, Aurora Village Addition Section 2. The zoning map of the City of Burnsville referred to and described in said Title 10, shall not be republished to show the aforesaid rezoning, but the Community Development Director or his/her designee shall appropriately mark the zoning map on file in the city clerk's office for the purpose of indicating the rezoning provided for in this ordinance and all of the notations, references and other information shown thereon are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this ordinance. Section 3. This ordinance shall be effective immediately upon its passage and publication according to law. PASSED AND DULY ADOPTED THIS 4th day of September, 2012, by the city council of the City of Burnsville. _______________________ Elizabeth B. Kautz, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________ Macheal Brooks, City Clerk 3151873

9/21/12

PUBLIC NOTICE ORDINANCE NO. 1275

CITY OF BURNSVILLE, MINNESOTA AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 10 OF THE BURNSVILLE CITY CODE, BEING THE ZONING TITLE OF THE CITY OF BURNSVILLE SOCCER BLAST PROPERTIES MN INC. CASE FILE NO. DEV12-0021 Section 1. Title 10 of the Burnsville City Code is hereby amended to allow an Interim Use for a fabric dome located at 3601 West 145th Street in accordance with the Amended Planned Unit Development Agreement on file in the City clerk's office dated September 4, 2012, for the following described property located within the City of Burnsville, Minnesota: Lots 6, 7 and 8, Block 1 Burnscott Industrial Park, Dakota County, Minnesota. Section 2. The zoning map of the City of Burnsville referred to and described in said Title 10, shall not be republished to show the aforesaid rezoning, but the Community Development Director or his/her designee shall appropriately mark the zoning map on file in the city clerk's office for the purpose of indicating the rezoning provided for in this ordinance and all of the notations, references and other information shown thereon are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this ordinance. Section 3. This ordinance shall be effective immediately upon its passage and publication according to law. PASSED AND DULY ADOPTED THIS 4th day of September, 2012, by the city council of the City of Burnsville. _______________________ Elizabeth B. Kautz, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________ Macheal Brooks, City Clerk 3151921

��

Cari J. Bykerk (Nyland) Age 49, of Grand Island, Nebraska, died Thursday, September 13, 2012, at her home with her family by her side, after a courageous two year battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Cari's wishes were to be cremated. Curran Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. Cari was born October 3, 1962, in Golden Valley, MN. She was the daughter of Clifford and Dorothy (Giese) Nyland. Survivors of the immediate family include her three sons, Kyle Nyland of Savage, MN; Kley McColl of Lonsdale, MN; and Tanner Werre of Grand Island, NE. One daughter, Jessica Bykerk of Grand Island, NE. Her mother, Dorothy Nyland of Lakeville, MN; Three sisters, Colleen & Jim Elliott of Savage, MN; C a r o l D o n n e l l y o f Lakeville, MN; and Cathy Jensen of Lakeville, MN; and one Granddaughter Hazel Ingold (Werre) of Grand Island, NE. Others left to cherish her memory include her special friend, Ted Robb of Grand Island, NE. Eight nieces and nephews and eight grand nieces and nephews, and her cherished Jack Russell Terrier, Biscuit. Cari grew up in Lakeville, MN and graduated in 1980 from Lakeville High. She lived in South Dakota and Nebraska for the past 30 years. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. She was preceded in death by her father. Celebration for Cari will be held on Saturday, September 29th at the home of Cathy Jensen 8990 211th St. West, Lakeville, MN from 1-4pm. Memorials for the family accepted at the above address. On line condolences may be given at www.curranfuneralchapel.com under Cari's obituary.

9/21/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be held on September 24, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible by the Burnsville Planning Commission, 100 Civic Center Parkway, in the Council Chambers on the application of the City of Burnsville for an Ordinance Amendment to Title 10, Zoning Ordinance, of the Burnsville City Code addressing dynamic display billboards. The application will be scheduled for the next appropriate City Council meeting following the Planning Commission meeting. All persons desiring to speak on this application are encouraged to attend. For more information concerning this request, please contact Planner Chris Slania (952) 895-4451 at the City of Burnsville. Chris Slania On Behalf of the Chair of the Burnsville Planning Commission 3146470 9/14-9/21/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing will be held on September 24, 2012, at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible by the Burnsville Planning Commission, 100 Civic Center Parkway, in the Council Chambers on the application of Menard Inc. for a Planned Unit Development Amendment for outdoor display and storage at the existing building located at 3100 Highway 13. The application will be scheduled for the next appropriate City Council meeting following the Planning Commission meeting. All persons desiring to speak on this application are encouraged to attend. For more information concerning this request, please contact Planner Chris Slania (952) 895-4451 at the City of Burnsville. Chris Slania On Behalf of the Chair of the Burnsville Planning Commission 3146519 9/14-9/21/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

ISD 194 ONLINE AUCTION Lakeville Area Public Schools is posting surplus items for purchase online with Public Surplus, a governmental auction site. The web address is Select http://www.publicsurplus.com/ “Browse Auctions within Area”, then “Select Region” (Minnesota), then “Select Agency”, (ISD 194 Lakeville Area Public Schools). The auction begins on Friday, 9-21-12 and ends on Friday, 10-12-12, at 5:00 PM. Bidding, payment, and inquiries will be handled through the auction site. Independent School District #194 8670 210th Street West Lakeville, Minnesota 55044 Kathy Lewis, Clerk Publish: September 21 September 28 3157989 9/21-9/28/12

Gardner L. Miller Age 88 of Eagan passed away September 11, 2012. Preceded in death by his siblings: Earl Jr., Inez, and Florence. Survived by his wife, Karen; sons: Mark (Tami), Paul (Julie), Loren (VaNita), and Chris (Shannon); grandchildren: Luke, Cory, Lee, Seth, Dale, Erin, Anna, Samantha, and Shane; also survived by other loving family and friends. Funeral Service, 10:30am Saturday, September 15, 2012 at River Hills United Methodist Church (11100 River Hills Dr) Burnsville. Visitation from 5-8pm Friday, Sept 14, at White Funeral Home (12804 Nicollet Ave) Burnsville and one hour prior to the service at church. Gardner was born and raised in East Chain, MN. He graduated from East Chain High School and the University of Minnesota. Gardner served his country in WWII. He worked for Northwest Airlines where he met his of 52 years, Karen. Along with two other employees, he was the original IT department at Northwest converting their payroll to the computer. He also worked for Control Data and Donovan Companies in St. Paul. After retiring, he purchased a farm near Lonsdale and raised sheep for many years and enjoyed vegetable gardening Gradner was active in 4-H as a youth in Martin County, raising sheep and as an adult leader in Dakota county. He initiated and orienteering project in the county. He also served on the State 4-H Advisory Committee. He was a member of the Richfield Men’s Garden Club at one time and won many awards with his flowers. His other interest was woodworking. He built many pieces of furniture for the family, mainly using black walnut. He was the soccer commissioner for the Eagan Athletic Assoc. for several years. Gardner was also active in church serving on various committees and as a greeter on Sunday mornings. His trip to Israel with his son Mark’s church group and his grandson Luke was a highlight of his many travels. Gardner’s family meant a great deal to him. He always took an interest in their activities, careers and achievements. He chose the songs in 2008 for his grandchildren to sing at his funeral. White Funeral Home Burnsville 952 894 5080

�� Anthony J. Krejce Beloved Father, Grandfather & Great Grandfather. Age 76. Lifelong Lakeville resident. Passed away unexpectedly Sept 13, 2012. Preceded in death by wife Gerri and son Dan. Survived by children Ken, JoAnn (Harold) Puri, Pam (Jim) Hobson, and Toni (Mike) Zitek; 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Funeral Mass Friday, Sept. 21, 11:30AM at All Saints Catholic Church, 19795 Holyoke Ave, Lakeville. Reviewal one hour prior to service at church. Memorials preferred to the church. Arr w/ Twin Cities Cremation 651-645-1233

Happy Birthday Marcy Rotty! Please join our family as we celebrate these 80 years of our Mom Marcy Rotty Saturday, September 29 2-5 pm Celt’s of Farmington 200 3rd St., Farmington

��

“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” - Abraham Lincoln No gifts please.

To submit an announcement Forms for birth, engagement, wedding, anniversary and obituaries announcements are available at our office and online at www.thisweeklive.com (click on “Announcements” and then “Send Announcement”). Completed forms may be e-mailed to class. thisweek@ecm-inc.com or mailed to Sun Thisweek, 15322 Galaxie Ave., Suite 219, Apple Valley, MN 55124. If you are submitting a photograph along with your announcement, please only submit photographs for which you have the right to permit Sun Thisweek to use and publish. Deadline for announcements is 4 p.m. Tuesday. A fee of $50 will be charged for the first 5 inches and $10 per inch thereafter. They will run in all editions of Sun Thisweek. Photos may be picked up at the office within 60 days or returned by mail if a self-addressed, stamped envelope is provided.

��

PUBLIC NOTICE

��

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Only rubble was left after a haunted house at Buck Hill’s Frightmares attraction burned down last weekend. Despite the fire, Frightmares will open as planned on Oct. 5.

Fire destroys haunted house, but show will go on A weekend fire destroyed one of the haunted houses at the annual Frightmares attraction at Buck Hill in Burnsville. “The fire destroyed the Bellharm-Lovejoy Asylum, one of four houses and many other attractions at Frightmares at Buck Hill. No one was injured in the fire,” said a statement from ski, snowboarding and snow-tubing venue, which features a variety of other seasonal attractions. According to FOX 9 News, Burnsville Fire Chief B.J. Jungmann said the fire broke out at about 1 a.m. Sunday inside a large tent with temporary walls. No one was inside at the time. Crews from Lakeville helped extinguish the flames, and investigators spent several hours looking for a cause, FOX 9 reported. Buck Hill General Manager Don McClure said in the statement that Frightmares at Buck Hill remains on schedule to open its 13day run on Oct. 5. It’s the attraction’s fourth season. “Frightmares at Buck Hill’s other primary attractions — Orchard Manor Dead and Breakfast, The Fright Factory, and the

Haunted Hallow — as well as the regular features such as live musical entertainment and Kevin Hall’s Magic Show, will open and entertain guests as sched-

uled,” the statement said. “As soon as the scene of the fire is cleared, a new attraction will be put in its place.”

10A

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

Teach them now, or pay later Workshop to focus on investment in early childhood education by Tad Johnson Sun Thisweek

The co-author of the often-cited report from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis that found investments in early childhood education have a high public dollar rate of return will share his research with Dakota County professionals who work with children. Rob Grunewald, the Reserve Bank’s associate economist who has made similar presentations throughout the country, is the keynote speaker of the New American Services Collaborative session “Early Childhood Education: The Key to Success for New Americans” from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at Dakota County Technical College. About 50 people have signed up to attend the session, which is free and open to educators, faith leaders, social services and early childhood providers.

Grunewald, a Minneapolis resident, will talk about the results of the 2003 reRob port that he Grunewald co-authored with former research director at the Reserve Bank, Art Rolnick, that compared investments with early childhood education to construction of a sports stadium as two different kinds of economic development tools. Early childhood education returns $16 for every dollar invested, Rolnick and Grunewald found. “Children who arrive prepared to succeed in school are more likely to graduate from high school and be a productive member of society,” Grunewald said. Those who are unprepared tend to stay behind their peers and earn less

money in their careers. They are also more likely to commit crimes and need social assistance. Grunewald said the early investment means schools spend less as the child ages and in other parts of government, particularly the criminal justice system. “We were surprised to see the results,” Grunewald said. So were others. Rolnick and Grunewald captured the attention of business leaders across the nation and in Minnesota. So much so that a group of Minnesota CEOs decided to create the Minnesota Early Learning Foundation after Grunewald and Rolnick wrote a follow-up report outlining how to invest in early learning. The foundation, comprised of CEOs of some of the state’s largest companies (Cargill, Best Buy, General See workshop, 20A

Apple Valley man sentenced for fatally shooting friend An Apple Valley man he didn’t know the gun had was sentenced Sept. 13 to been reloaded after being 90 days in jail and 10 years emptied. probation for fatally shoot- Dahl told police it was ing a friend with a gun he the first time he’d handled thought was una gun, the criminal loaded. complaint said. Derrick Wallace “He said Dahl, 23, accidenthat all three of tally shot 22-yearthem had earlier old Benjamin Albeen pointing the len Hanson in the empty guns at each head on July 23, other, just playing 2011, at a home on Derrick Dahl around,” the crimiEast Crystal Lake nal complaint said. Road in Burnsville. Dahl, who pleaded Wallace, Dahl and a guilty to second-degree third man who lives at the manslaughter in May, was home were handling fire- originally charged with arms kept there when Dahl second-degree manslaughpointed a .45-caliber hand- ter, reckless discharge of a gun at Hanson and fired. firearm in a municipality, He admitted to police he’d intentionally pointing a gun pulled the trigger but said at another and recklessly

handling a gun. It was expected Dahl would avoid prison time under his plea agreement with the Dakota County attorney’s office. Sentencing guidelines called for 48 months prison, but the prosecution agreed to stay the prison term, County Attorney James Backstrom said at the time of the plea agreement. “I agreed to the downward departure because this was an unintentional act of negligence,” Backstrom said. “It think it’s reflective of the significant danger associated with mishandling firearms. But it was not an intentional act on Mr. Dahl’s part.” —Andrew Miller

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

Clegg, from 1A the district is headed and the changes that have been made under his leadership,” she said. “It’s just time for us to start a new year and keep all of that going.” Earlier this month the board said Clegg didn’t meet three of seven standards on his job review. He’d met all standards in three previous annual reviews. Board members haven’t elaborated, saying job evaluations are protected by state data privacy law. “It’s the life of the superintendency,” Clegg said in an interview Monday, adding that board members have voiced approval of his revamped curriculummanagement and budgeting systems and the magnet schools that opened under his guidance. “I think they’re looking for a different style of leadership,” he said. Specifically, “I think they’d like a warmer style of leadership, maybe not so direct.” Direct with whom? Clegg was asked. “They’d probably say everybody.” After 35 years in public education and five superintendencies – four of them in Iowa, the last in Clinton – Clegg said he hasn’t asked the board to consider a new contract past next June 30. “I came here with the idea thinking that I was going to see these projects through,” he said, adding that another contract period “would have been helpful,” but “things change.” Clegg said he has “no doubt at all” that the outcry from taxpayers and teachers over the Tania Chance buyout soured the board’s relationship with him. “Not uniformly,” Clegg added. “Each board member shared their thoughts and feelings, and some would share that feeling.” He defended the boardapproved buyout with the district’s controversial former executive director of human resources, whom the

Housing, from 1A 19 townhome complexes operated by the CDA. The CDA’s most recently completed projects include Meadowlark in Lakeville and Quarry View in Apple Valley, which opened in 2010 and 2011, respectively. Once complete, Northwood Townhomes, which is funded by the federal lowincome housing tax credit, will feature one-, two- and three-bedroom townhomes with a picnic area, basketball hoop and tot lot outside. Residents will able to pay a fixed rent of $570 for a one-bedroom home, up to $650 for a two-bedroom and up to $705 for a three-

board hired under Clegg’s watch. A separation agreement allowed Chance to resign on Feb. 1 with a payment of $255,000 and 18 months left on her two-year contract. The agreement revealed that Chance agreed to drop charges against the district she had pending with the state Department of Human Rights, and to drop a complaint about Clegg she made to the Minnesota Board of School Administrators. No other details are public. A separation agreement “is a pretty common practice” in public education and one District 191 has used in the past, said Clegg, whose annual salary is $180,000. “There are sometimes employees that aren’t working out well, they need to move on, and this is a way to facilitate that process as opposed to going through a formal termination process, which can get very messy and oftentimes can be very expensive,” he said. Furor over the buyout surfaced in the spring and is resurfacing this election season. Some 200 residents and teachers packed a board listening session on March 1, objecting to the payout and the lack of detail the district offered. The district had blacked out lines in the agreement referring to the charges and complaint. In April, the state Department of Administration said the district had erred in redacting the information. The district then released it. Recent Star Tribune interviews with some of the challengers in the November School Board race indicate that at least two – Tom McCasey and Mark Traikoff – want Clegg out, and at least two others – Steve Dove and Seema Pothini – are unhappy with the district’s handling of the Chance episode. Incumbents Hill, Sweep and DeeDee Currier are

seeking re-election to fouryear terms in the 10-way race for four seats. Appointee Robert VandenBoom is seeking election to a twoyear term. Only Hill and Dan Luth remain from the 2008 board that hired Clegg. Superintendents always hope the board that hired them “is going to be there throughout the long haul,” Hill said. “Rarely does it work out that way.”

bedroom. Although the Northwood and similar CDA developments offer affordable fixed rent, it will not accept state subsidized rent. “This development will be for people in modest paying jobs who need affordable housing,” Gill said. Applicants must meet income guidelines, provide good landlord and credit references and pass a criminal background check to become a resident. For a three-bedroom home, for instance, the minimum income required is $19,032. The program also sets a maximum income, which includes $50,400 for a family of four. More than 1,800 applicants are on a waiting list

for the program, including 1,000 who are interested in the new Eagan development. The Northwood will be the program’s third development to open in Eagan in the past 16 years. Erin Place opened in 1996 on Erin Drive off Cliff Road and Oak Ridge opened in 2004 near Diffley Road.

Clegg’s legacy Under Clegg, the district has opened magnet schools, reinstated free, all-day kindergarten (this school year) and updated 17 school buildings, among other projects. The district now has a budget broken down by program area and more transparent than the old line-item budgets, Clegg said. Under Clegg, the district designed a system of managing curriculum that he said is crucial to improving learning and a vast improvement over the old system. “There really was not a district-defined curriculum when I came here,” he said. “What they were defining as curriculum was textbook adoptions. That’s not the same. A textbook is a resource. It’s not the curriculum.” Hill credits Clegg with insisting that the district move toward “equity” and uniformity in classroom content across grade levels and schools. The district has now developed K-12 content sequences in language arts, math and science, Clegg said. “We’re starting to work on social studies,” he added. “The goal is to eventually have it for every single area of instruction in the district, including the arts, physical education and music.” A “clear, viable curriculum” is “absolutely essential to closing the achievement gap,” he said.

He pointed to Edward Neill Elementary, now labeled by the state as a “Celebration School” for making progress toward closing the achievement gap. Last year, the school didn’t make Adequate Yearly Progress under the No Child Left Behind system that’s been waived in Minnesota. “We’ll get there,” Clegg said, noting that about 47 percent of district students qualify for free or subsidized school meals. “It doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a slow, slow process.” He’s expanded the traditional superintendent’s executive cabinet from six members to 12, now calling it a leadership team charged

with charting the district’s “strategic road map” developed on his watch. One of the members is Bob Nystrom, president of the teachers union, the Burnsville Education Association. “I would say we’ve seen an improvement in labor relations over the last six months,” Nystrom said. That period included settlement of a teachers contract – which was wrapped up without Chance, the district’s former lead negotiator, at the table – and reinstatement of an incentive-pay plan teachers had suspended last year. “I think we’re heading in the right direction,” Nys-

11A

trom said. Clegg said it’s unlikely he’ll work again in education after leaving 191. “I’m absolutely committed to the idea of public education,” said Clegg, who lives in Savage with his wife, Linda. “There does reach a point when you just get exhausted. How much longer can I keep working 80-hour weeks? My wife is really looking forward to having a normal relationship. I mean, she’s the superintendent widow.” John Gessner can be reached at john.gessner@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

��

Jessica Harper is at jessica. harper@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

� ��

��

� ��

��

12A

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount

Thisweekend

Caponi Art Park hosts Medieval Fair Sept. 30 by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

Those who need a break from the 21st century will find much to enjoy at Caponi Art Park next weekend. The art park in Eagan is partnering with the Society for Creative Anachronism, an historical recreation group, to host the Medieval Fair on Sunday, Sept. 30. The family-friendly living history event, now in its fifth year in Eagan, will see the park transformed into a medieval village with authentic pavilions, period clothing and demonstrations. The Barony of Nordskogen, the local SCA chapter staging the event, will be leading activities such as cooking, glass bead making, fiber arts

and more throughout the afternoon. Coin making and pewter casting demos have been added this year, and one Barony of Nordskogen member is bringing an array of animals – goats and rabbits mostly – to give the park the ambience of an authentic medieval village. Past Medieval Fair favorites such as period games, storytelling, music and dance, and an armorer demo are back. Armored combat – in which Barony members don armor, take up swords and engage in mock combat – returns in all its glory this year as well. Similar in appearance to the Renaissance Festival held annually in Shakopee, the Medieval Fair places an emphasis on education

Photo submitted

Armored combat – in which members of the Society for Creative Anachronism don armor, take up swords and engage in mock combat – returns in all its glory to this year’s Medieval Fair. and historical accuracy, according to Medieval Fair coordinator Liz Pearson. Food concessions will be available from local Boy Scout Troop 293, with proceeds going toward the troop’s canoe trip in the Boundary Waters. The Medieval Fair runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 30 in the park at 1220 Diffley Road, Eagan. Admission is free with a $5 per person suggested donation. More about the event is at www.caponiartpark.org. The Barony of Nordskogen is on the web at www. nordskogen.northshield. org. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ Photo submitted ecm-inc.com or facebook. An armorer’s demonstration is one of the many hands-on activities planned at the Medieval com/sunthisweek. Fair.

theater and arts calendar To submit items for the Arts Calendar, email: darcy. odden@ecm-inc.com. Books Minneapolis author Monique Hammond will sign copies of her book, “What Did You Say? An Unexpected Journey into the World of Hearing Loss,” from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Apple Valley Barnes & Noble, 14880 Florence Trail. Hammond will speak about important hear-

ing loss topics, answer questions and provide prevention tips and resources on coping with hearing loss. Comedy Chad Thornsberry with special guest Nola J at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14, and Saturday, Sept. 15, at MinneHAHA Comedy Club, 1583 E. First Ave., Shakopee (lower level of Dangerfield’s), (612) 860-9388, www. minnehahacomedyclub.com.

��

� ��

��

Tickets: $13. Chad Daniels at 7 p.m. Oct. 11, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Oct. 12-13, and 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at Laugh Lines Comedy, GrandStay Hotel, 7083 153rd St. W., Apple Valley. Tickets are $12 (Thursday/Sunday) and $15 (Friday/Saturday). Tickets are available online at www.hahatickets.com or by calling (651) 528-8454. Concerts The Rosemount Community Band and the River Valley Community Band will perform at the inaugural Spring Lake Park Reserve Musical Festival from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 23, at Spring Lake Park Reserve, 8395 127th St. E., Hastings. Free. New Life Band from Tanzania will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 13801 Fairview Drive, Burnsville. Information: Susan at sjambor@princeofpeaceonline.org or (952) 898-9404. Colleen Raye will perform her musical tribute to Patsy Cline

at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Tickets are $19 and can be purchased at the box office, via Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster. com. Exhibits/art shows Harvest of Art Community Art Exhibit runs through Nov. 2 at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S., and other Eagan locations. Information: (651) 675-5521 or www.eaganarthouse.org. Festivals/special events Holz Farm Lone Oak Days runs 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, and Sunday, Sept. 23, at Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan. Information: (651) 6755500 or www.cityofeagan.com. “Musical Heart Notes – Treasuring Children,” a musical fundraiser for Children’s Lighthouse of Minnesota, will be held from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Steeple

Center, 14375 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Information: www.childrenslighthousemn.org. Workshops/classes Adult painting open studio from 9 a.m. to noon the first and third Fridays of the month at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S. Fee is $5 per session. Information: (651) 675-5521. Music Together in the Valley offers classes for parents and their infant, toddler and preschool children in Rosemount, Farmington, Lakeville and Apple Valley. Information: www.musictogetherclasses.com or (651) 439-4219. The Eagan Art House offers classes for ages 4 through adult. Register now for fall classes. For a complete listing go to www. eaganarthouse.org or call (651) 675-5521. Dan Petrov Art Studio in Burnsville offers oil painting classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skill level

painters, www.danpetrovart.com, (763) 843-2734. Teens Express Yourself with Paint, 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays at Brushworks School of Art in Burnsville, www.BrushworksSchoolofArt.com, (651) 214-4732. Drama/theater classes for ages 4 and up at River Ridge Arts Building, Burnsville, (952) 736-3644. Show Biz Kids Theater Class for children with special needs (ASD/DCD programs), In the Company of Kids 13710 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville, (952) 736-3644. Broadway Kids Dance and Theater Program for all ages and abilities, In the Company of Kids, 13710 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville (Colonial Shopping Center), (952) 736-3644. Join other 55-plus adults at the Eagan Art House to create beaded jewelry. The Jewelry Club meets on the third Friday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Information: (651) 675-5500. Savage Art Studios, 4735 W. 123rd St., Suite 200, Savage, offers classes/workshops for all ages. Information: www. savageartstudios.com or (952) 895-0375. Soy candle making classes held weekly in Eagan near 55 and Yankee Doodle. Call Jamie at (651) 315-4849 for dates and times. $10 per person. Presented by Making Scents in Minnesota. Country line dance classes held for intermediates Mondays 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Rambling River Center, 325 Oak St., Farmington, $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. Country line dance classes on Wednesdays at the Lakeville Senior Center, 20732 Holt Ave. Beginners, 9-10 a.m.; Intermediate, 10 a.m.-noon. $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. The Lakeville Area Arts Center offers arts classes for all ages, www.lakevillemn.gov, (952) 985-4640.

Sun Thisweek - Apple Valley - Rosemount September 21, 2012

13A

Thisweekend theater and arts briefs Photo contest winners

Book signing is Oct. 3 at BPAC Author Mark Forgy will sign copies and discuss his book “The Forger’s Apprentice” from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, in the art gallery at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. “The Forger’s Apprentice” is a memoir and coming-of-age journey of Forgy’s years as personal assistant to art forger Elmyr. The event is free and open to the public. Books will be available for sale and signing.

Winners in the first Burnsville Fire Muster Photo Contest were Joy Adams of Burnsville for her photo of the Police K-9 Demonstration with Burnsville Police Officer Ben Archambault and his K-9 partner Echo. Adams won first place. Second place went to Brian Esmay of Bloomington for his photo of the Burnsville Fire Department’s ladder truck. Both won a prize package from the Burnsville Fire Muster Committee.

Art crawl set Oct. 6

family calendar To submit items for the Family Calendar, email: darcy. odden@ecm-inc.com.

samaritanspurse.org/occ. For more information, call (612) 359-7025.

Friday, Sept. 21 Girl Scout recruitment night for girls in the Rosemount area, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Falcon Ridge Middle School cafeteria, 12900 Johnny Cake Ridge Road, Apple Valley. Membership dues: $12. Financial assistance available. Information: Keri Chumbley at thechumbleys@charter.net.

Wednesday, Sept. 26 Eagan Market Fest, 4 to 8 p.m., Eagan Festival Grounds. Last day of the farmers market for the 2012 season. Information: www.cityofeagan.com/ marketfest or (651) 675-5500.

Saturday, Sept. 22 Fourth annual Pedal the Parks, 9 a.m. to noon, Pioneer Plaza, 20801 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville. Registration and bike safety check, 9 a.m.; bike rodeo, 9 to 10 a.m. Bike 6, 10 and 20 miles. Preregister at www.lakeville-rapconnect.com, program No. 4902. Information: (952) 250-3320 or www. lakevillefriends.org. Monday, Sept. 24 Flapjack breakfast, 7:30 to 10 a.m., Ebenezer Ridges Campus, 13820 Community Drive, Burnsville. All-you-caneat pancakes, sausage, juice and milk. Cost: $5. Information: (952) 898-8400. Tuesday, Sept. 25 Open house for Operation Christmas Child, 4 to 6 p.m. at Prince of Peace Church, 13901 Fairview Drive (Door i), Burnsville. Short presentation from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Free green and red shoe boxes (GO boxes) available for new churches, groups, and other promotional opportunities. Call Dawn, (612) 231-6031, to reserve GO boxes or order online at www.

��

Saturday, Sept. 29 G.A.P. Seminar (God Answers Prayer), 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church, 16725 Highview Ave., Lakeville. Registration and continental breakfast, 8 to 8:30 a.m. Cost: $10 (includes breakfast, box lunch and instructional materials). Timeless Biblical truths are presented and reinforced in a relaxed atmosphere. Email questions to: gapseminar@messiahonline. org. or call (952) 484-0386. Kids’ Used Clothing & Equipment Sale by the Minnesota Valley Mothers of Multiples from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan. Entrance fee: $2. Tickets on sale at 10 a.m. Cash or checks only. Information: www.mvmom.org. Blood drives The American Red Cross will hold the following blood drives. Call 1-800-RED

��

Thursday, Sept. 27 Guatemala and Volunteer Vacations, 7 p.m. at Heritage Library, 20085 Heritage Drive, Lakeville. Part of a travel series hosted by Friends of the Heritage Library. Information: (952) 891-0360.

��

� ��

�

��

�

��

�

��

CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. • Sept. 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 4150 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan. • Sept. 28, 2 to 7 p.m., Kowalski’s Market, 1646 Diffley Road, Eagan. • Oct. 1, 2 to 7 p.m., Walmart, 2200 Highway 13 W., Burnsville.

The Savage Arts Council will present the third annual Scott County Art Crawl from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6. The juried art crawl weaves through urban and rural areas in northern Scott County, with more than 30 stops at artist studios and artist host sponsors. The event includes a

variety of media including oil paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass art and more. Artwork is available for purchase during the art crawl. A pre-show exhibit is on display through Oct. 13 at the Prior Lake, Savage and Shakopee libraries during normal library hours. For more information, visit www.scottcountyartcrawl.org.

Lone Oak Days at Holz Farm Lone Oak Days Fall Festival will be 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 22, and Sunday, Sept. 23, at Holz Farm, 4665 Manor Drive, Eagan. Activities at the 1940s farm include a hayride, rope making, farm animals and pony rides. A blacksmith will show how metal tools were made. Admission is free but some children’s activities require tickets which can be purchased for 50 cents each. For more information, call (651) 675-5500

or visit www.cityofeagan. com.

Auditions for ‘The ReGifters’ Auditions for “The ReGifters” will be held at the Lakeville Area Arts Center on Tuesday, Sept. 25, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Expressions Community Theater will be presenting this stage comedy in November. When a couple “regifts” a not-sogreat Christmas present, then finds out it’s worth a fortune, they will stop at nothing to get it back. Auditions will be readings from the script. Producers of the show are currently casting for the following two roles: one male age 40s to 50s (key role), and one male late 30s to mid 40s (smaller role). Show dates are Nov. 9-11 and 16-18. For more information, contact the director, Pege Miller, at (612) 670-8663. The arts center is located at 20965 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville.

14A

Sports

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

Wildcats race to the top at Applejack Anderson places second at 21-team meet by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The Eagan girls cross country team etched in cement the thought of a No. 1 ranking in Class AA after winning the Lakeville Applejack Invitational on Sept. 14. The Wildcats beat several other ranked programs, including Lakeville South, Edina and Forest Lake. After winning the Dakota Classic on Aug. 31 and the St. Croix Invitational on Sept. 6, the Wildcats haven’t let anyone get ahead of them this season. “They’re proud of what’s going on and they want to push that much harder,” head coach Lisa Langenhahn said. “We’re keeping a level head. We know everybody is out to get us, but that makes

us a better team. They’re such a loving group of kids and that’s a main thing.” Leading the pack is Danielle Anderson, who placed second at the Applejack. Anderson was about 27 seconds behind Shakopee’s Maria Hauger, a three-time state champion, with a run of 14 minutes, 4.3 seconds. She cut 17 seconds off her time at the Applejack in 2011. “I feel OK about it,” she said. “I wasn’t feeling great. It was nice to run with Maria and see where I’m at. It’s very mental running against her. She’s really good. It makes me nervous. She definitely pushes me.” She said she got an idea of what she needs to do to close the gap between her and Hauger and stay ahead of rivals such as Taylor Perkins of Lakeville North, who finished in third place. “I trained a lot more than previous summers,” Anderson said.

“I ran with the 400 (mile) club. I just really wanted to do better this year, my last year.” Eagan finished second last year at the Applejack behind Lakeville South, which had most of its runners returning this season. But Eagan’s young runners made great strides over the offseason. “It’s been so nice to be around these girls,” Anderson said. “They all love the sport so much. We didn’t really think about (our ranking coming into the season). We had (Lakeville South) in the back of our minds, but we felt really prepared.” Junior Raissa Hansen finished in fourth place, about 40 seconds behind Anderson. Sophomores Kelli Praska (eighth), Karina Johnson (11th), Anna Van Wyk (13th), and freshman Olivia Mitchell (24th) along with senior Elizabeth Frick (29th) have helped the Wildcats become the team to beat in Minnesota.

Praska cut 34 seconds and Johnson 37 seconds off their times at last year’s Applejack, and Hansen cut more than 1:10 off the time she ran at the state meet last season. “Raissa is really coming on strong,” Langenhahn said. The younger girls have been trying to keep up with Anderson in practice, which has only made them better. “I think it’s a chase mentality,” Langenhahn said. “In practice they’re friendly competitors. They all want to make each other better.” The Wildcats will see several more elite programs at the Eagle Invitational at Apple Valley on Saturday before running at the Photo by Andy Rogers Roy Griak Invitational at the University of Minnesota on Sept. 29. Eagan’s Danielle Anderson nears the finish line at Lakeville’s Andy Rogers can be reached at Applejack Invitational at Aronson andy.rogers@ecm-inc.com or face- Park on Sept. 14. She finished in second place. book.com/sunthisweek.

Burnsville swimmers are keeping stride Elling, Le leading a young Blaze swim team by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The Burnsville girls swimming team narrowly lost to Prior Lake, one of the top teams in the South Suburban Conference, after winning most of the events by a score of 92-91 on Tuesday. Considering Burnsville doesn’t have divers, automatically giving the opposition 13 points in duals, coach Kim Harrod was elated by the results. Burnsville hasn’t had diving facilities since the early 1990s. “They murdered us last year,” Harrod said. “We’ve come a long way. We know how fast (Prior Lake) can be. (The Burnsville swimmers) were a little scared, but I’m beyond impressed with what they did today.” Anna Elling, Angela Le, Sidney Christopherson, and Alexis Dobrzynski won their events against Prior Lake. Elling and Le are both undefeated in dual meets this season. When you’re armed with swimmers of Le and Elling’s caliber, Harrod uses them strategically. Le has won the individual medley, butterfly, backstroke and 50-yard freestyle in various duals this season. Elling has won the 100 freestyle, backstroke, individual medley, 500 freestyle, 200 freestyle and butterfly. “I like switching up my events,” Le said. “I don’t mind doing things out of my comfort zone.” Burnsville coaches will place them where they feel they can get the most points. “I can put them in just about anything and expect them to win,” Harrod said. Elling is willing to do just about anything to help the team. “She’s consistently giving words of encouragement,” Harrod said. “She really understands the sport of swimming. It’s

Photo by Andy Rogers

Burnsville’s Angela Le swims the backstroke against Prior Lake on Tuesday. The Blaze lost 92-91. great to have her around with a young team. She’s so supportive. She loves to race and she’s super-duper competitive.” Elling swam in the butterfly at state in 2011, finishing 13th and 15th in the individual medley. She’s been swimming within a second of her state times already, but this year she’s focusing on the sprint and distance freestyle events. “The events I’ve had the past couple years haven’t worked out as well as I’ve hoped,” Elling said. “I used to do IM and butterfly, but last summer I got into distance freestyle. It just started to click for me.” Last season, Le finished seventh in the state in the 100 butterfly and 17th in the 100 backstroke. She has already surpassed her times set in 2011. The Blaze also rely on Dobrzynski, who won the 50 and 100 freestyle against Prior Lake. She was out last season with a broken ankle, but she’s back “and thrilled to be racing,” Harrod said. “It was the biggest disappointment possible to have to watch all the races last year. She’s really coming around.” Christopherson has provided several solid points in the breaststroke and freestyle events, as well as a confident leg in the relays. Although, with 15 of the 30 girls in eighth grade,

the girls don’t have a deep lineup. Teams receive points for three participants in each event, so even if a swimmer wins, it’s not a guarantee they get the most points overall. “We started the season getting first, fifth and sixth,” Harrod said. “But the girls are stepping it up. We’re moving up to one, four and five; one, three, five.” The girls have lost to Prior Lake and Lakeville South, but they defeated Apple Valley and Eagan. The Blaze head to Bloomington Kennedy on Thursday and to Rosemount Oct. 4 before hosting a home meet on Oct. 9 against Lakeville North. No matter what happens at the remaining duals, sections or at the state tournament, the girls will finish the season knowing they had fun. “It’s a party every day,” Elling said. “It’s all sunshine around here.” The girls have their own cheers and dance routines to pump each other up during the meets. “They’re always dancing and laughing,” Harrod said. “They just get along. That’s not always something you can say with 30 girls. Drama can tear that apart.”

Photo by Mike Shaughnessy

Eastview’s Kayla Tuthill (26) battles an East Ridge player for control of the ball during the Lightning’s 2-0 victory Saturday afternoon.

Defense is no liability for Eastview girls Soccer team shuts out 7 consecutive opponents by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

Opponents looking for a weakness on the Eastview girls soccer team might have targeted the Lightning defense, which had several younger players in front of a returning goalkeeper. It’s not working out so well for the opposition. After losing its season opener, the Lightning won eight in a row, seven by shutout, and moved to third in the state Class AA rankings. Tuesday night the Lightning edged No. 2-ranked Burnsville 2-1 in a South Suburban Conference showdown. Burnsville had won eight in a row, all by shutout,

before losing to Eastview. The Eastview victory only slightly eased the congestion at the top of the SSC standings. Before Tuesday, four teams were tied for first. After Tuesday, Eastview, Lakeville North and Prior Lake were tied for first, each at 5-0 in the league. It’s becoming evident that defense can take Eastview a long way. “Bri Lindstrom was our only returning defender,” coach David Herem said after the Lightning defeated East Ridge 2-0 in a nonconference game Saturday afternoon. “The other girls we’re playing there came in at the beginning of the year

and won those jobs. We have a really good defense right now.” Before allowing Burnsville a goal in the second half of Tuesday’s game, Eastview had shut out its previous seven opponents. The shutout streak was not the result of a soft schedule. It started with a 1-0 victory over defending state Class AA champion Wayzata on Aug. 30. Eastview has defeated several other teams with solid reputations, including Eagan, Lakeville South and Duluth East. “We knew our goalkeeper (Anhthu Huynh) was really See Soccer, 15A

Blaze on fire

Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sun-

Burnsville softball coach resigns after 13 years with program Burnsville High School athletic director Jeff Marshall announced last week that head girls softball coach Hillary Johnson has resigned to spend more time with her family and newborn baby daughter. Johnson has been with the Burnsville program since 1999. From 1999 to 2005, Johnson served as an assistant coach under Pat Feely, with the team earning five conference championships, two section championships and two state championships. In 2006, Johnson took

over as head coach and served in that capacity through the spring of 2012. During her tenure as head coach, Johnson’s teams were 140-31, earning conference championships in 2007, 2009 and 2011, a section championship in 2010, and a state championship in 2010. Johnson was named section and state coach of the year in 2010. Additionally, Johnson coached two metro players of the year, one Gatorade state player of the year, one Ms. Softball award winner,

17 All-State players, 12 allstar game participants and three Academic All-State players. She has served on the softball advisory committee to the Minnesota State High School League, as the Section 3AAA representative to the state softball coaches association, as the coaches association treasurer and as the girls coaches representative to the MSHSL Region 3AA committee. Johnson also previously served as an assistant coach with Burnsville’s volleyball program.

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Burnsville’s Will Reger (7) throws out a pass against Bloomington Jefferson on Sept. 14. The Blaze defeated Jefferson 43-21 to improve to 2-1 on the season. Reger threw for 250 yards and three touchdowns in the victory. Andrew Herkenhoff caught seven passes for 99 yards and a touchdown. Ben Sherman caught a 75-yard touchdown pass and Tyler Hanson caught the other. Ben Gillies had 11 rushes for 77 yards and a touchdown and Lucas Grossoehme rushed for two touchdowns. The two victories match the total from 2011. The last time Burnsville won two straight games was in 2006. The Blaze will play host to Bloomington Kennedy, who are 0-3 with losses to Hopkins, Lakeville North and Rosemount, on Friday.

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

15A

Wildcats, Lightning need same thing – a victory South Suburban Conference football rivals have played close games recently

by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

Two football teams desperate for a victory will meet Friday when Eagan visits Eastview in a South Suburban Conference game at 7 p.m. The Wildcats are 0-3 after losing to fifth-ranked Minnetonka 34-13 last week. Eastview lost to third-ranked Lakeville North 24-7 and fell to 1-2. The Lightning lost to No. 2-ranked Wayzata on Sept. 7. If recent history is an indication, Friday’s game could be close. Eastview defeated Eagan 36-35 in overtime last year, 23-21 in 2010 and 27-25 in 2009. Eastview has won the last 12 games between the teams; Eagan’s last victory in the series was in 2000. It was at about this time last year that Eagan turned around its season. The Wildcats started 0-3 in 2011, then won six of their next seven games to reach the section final. Eagan junior quarterback Ian Entzion made his first varsity start in the Minnetonka game and completed eight of 15 passes for 121 yards. Sophomore wide receiver Andy Jubenville caught a 7-yard pass soccer, from 14A good,” said senior midfielder Taylor Heppner, one of Eastview’s captains. “Our first game (a 2-0 loss to White Bear Lake), we didn’t play well as a team but we were still getting used to each other. But we’ve put in a lot of effort, a lot of hard work, and now I think we’re great in the back.” In addition to Lindstrom, Lightning defenders include Christina Barry, the only ninth-grader on the varsity roster; sophomore Claire Pueschner; and Jazzy Chanthalakeo and Chandler Peterson, both juniors. Eastview played against the wind in the first half against East Ridge and kept the game scoreless. Once the Lightning got the wind at its back, forwards Kellie McGahn and Melisse Chasse struck for goals.

from Entzion for the Wildcats’ only touchdown. Shane Ringkob kicked field goals of 24 and 22 yards for the Wildcats. Entzion also led his team in rushing with 54 yards on nine carries. Defensive backs Nick Wolff and John Paulson had 10 and nine tackles for Eagan. Paulson made seven unassisted stops. Eastview took a 7-3 second-quarter lead against Lakeville North on Mark Dwyer’s 58-yard pass to Henry McIsaac. The lead lasted 14 seconds – which is as long as it took the Panthers’ Brandon Morgan, a former Eastview student, to catch the kickoff and return it 95 yards for a score. Lakeville North (3-0) added two rushing touchdowns in the third quarter by Jamiah Newell, who finished with 154 yards on the ground.

Apple Valley

Singer to Steven Wilson. Prior Lake’s rushing game then took control, as senior running back Jack Johnson scored three consecutive touchdowns. Johnson finished with 201 yards. Trailing 27-6, Apple Valley got back in the game behind three rushing touchdowns by senior Dom McDew-Stauffer. McDewStauffer, a starting linebacker who also plays quarterback in short-yardage situations, scored on runs of 1, 5 and 6 yards. But the Eagles’ comeback stalled when they lost the ball on downs with less than two minutes remaining. Singer completed 12 of 25 passes for 221 yards. Wilson had five catches for 74 yards and Dustin Fronk caught four passes for 106 yards. Friday, the Eagles (2-1) are at home against Lakeville South (1-2). South’s season has been up and down. In their opener, the Cougars committed six turnovers and lost to Lakeville North 47-24. The next week they buried Prior Lake 49-14. Last week, however, South was shut out 13-0 by Edina.

Prior Lake’s 352 rushing yards helped prevent Apple Valley from starting the season 3-0. The Lakers led by 21 points in the third quarter before holding on to beat the Eagles 34-26. Apple Valley scored the Mike Shaughnessy is at mike. game’s first touchdown on shaughnessy@ecm-inc.com or a 30-yard pass from Tommy facebook.com/sunthisweek. Herem said the Lightning wasn’t trying to just keep East Ridge at bay until it got the wind advantage, even though it might have looked that way. “We just wanted to play good soccer, with or without the wind,” he said. “When you’re playing good teams, you’ve got to play your best the whole game.” Huynh has been in goal for all seven shutouts. Eastview had 17 goals during the eight-game winning streak, scored by nine different players. Emily Sutliff, a junior forward, led the team with four goals. Junior forward Elise Abbott and junior midfielder Katie Eaton scored in the first half of Tuesday’s victory at Burnsville. Herem said the Lightning’s early success also can be attributed to the players being willing to accept what-

ever roles they’re given. “We have girls who were stars on their club teams,” he said. “Coach (Mary) Dye (varsity assistant) look at what we need on the team, and they might not be the same things their club coaches asked them to do.” Eastview got a boost in the South Suburban Conference standings by defeating Burnsville but is far from assured of winning the title. Four of the top five teams in last week’s state Class AA rankings – Lakeville North, Burnsville, Eastview and Prior Lake – are from the SSC. Eastview still has games remaining against No. 1-ranked Lakeville North (Sept. 27) and fifthranked Prior Lake (Oct. 2). Mike Shaughnessy is at mike.shaughnessy@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Lakeville North’s Grant Erickson (22) secures one of his two interceptions against Eastview on Sept. 14. Photo by Rick Orndorf

16A

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

17A

18A

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan September 21, 2012

Art donations needed The Eastview Community Foundation is seeking donated art to be sold at its fifth annual Art Madness. Photography, paintings, mixed media, original and limited edition prints, jewelry, weaving and sculpture will be accepted. Dining, theatre and sports contributions also are needed. The Eastview Community Foundation provides financial support to students, teachers and schools in the Eastview community through scholarships and grants. This year’s event goal is $20,000. To donate art, volunteer or for more information, contact Laurie Gilles at laurie.gilles@evcf.org or (952) 322-4828 or Molly Wellik at molly.wellik@evcf.org. Art Madness will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, at The Barn at Spirit of Brandtjen Farms located at 16965 Brandtjen Farm Drive in Lakeville. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.evcf. org for $35 or at the door for $40. All tickets purchased before Oct. 10 will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift certificate for Zest Restaurant in Eagan.

19A

Burnsville Briefs Stretch of Nicollet down to one lane Construction continues on Nicollet Avenue in Burnsville between Burnsville Parkway and Civic Center Parkway. Traffic is restricted to one lane in each direction. Congestion and delays are expected as part of this city project, which is expected to last six weeks (through mid- to late October). To sign up for updates on the Nicollet Avenue project, visit www. burnsville.org/streetrecon.

VFW essay contest for students High school students are invited to enter the Voice of Democracy essay contest sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The contest, for students in grades nine through 12, is a three- to fiveminute recording of an original essay on standard cassette or CD. This year’s theme, “Is our Constitution still relevant?” All entries for the 2013 contest

must be submitted to the Burnsville VFW Post 5833 no later than Nov. 1. Plaques and cash prizes will be awarded: $300 for first, $200 for second and $100 for third place. Winners at the local post level will advance to district/state competition. For more information or to download an application, go to www.vfw. org/Community/Voice-of-Democracy. Submissions through VFW Post 5833 will be coordinated through Harry Peake, (952) 435-8289 or Lyle Schaible, (952) 431-6719.

Free ACT practice tests Sylva n Learning, 170 Cobblestone Lane, Burnsville, will offer free practice ACT tests for sophomores, juniors and seniors from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 23, Oct. 14, Nov. 18, and Dec. 16. Bring a calculator. Reservations required. Call (952) 435-6603 to reserve a seat. To receive test results, parents must be present at a scheduled follow-up appointment.

��

�

��

�

��

�

��

� �

��

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � ��

��

� ��

��

20A

September 21, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Burnsville - Eagan

workshop, from 10A

Harvest time at Valley Natural Foods

Mills) funded the 2008-11 early childhood education pilot program in St. Paul’s Frogtown neighborhood. Through the program, $6 million in scholarships were provided to low-income families to enroll in an approved two-year early childhood education program. Grunewald said many of the students were new Americans who spoke English in addition to their native language. Many of them were Hmong and African Americans. Program results have been promising, according to Grunewald. He said parents were more engaged in their child’s learning and the program was a catalyst to increase

the number of high-quality early childhood education openings in the area. Students showed statistically significant improvements in literacy, math, social skills and attention, according to the study. Could such an investment in early childhood education happen in Dakota County? Monica Jensen, community relations director of the Dakota County Attorney’s Office and member of the county’s New American Services Collaborative, says the program isn’t intended to create such a program. “Our goal is to connect people and resources,” Jensen said. The collaborative has been doing just that for the past several years offering

resource fairs and speaker events like the Sept. 28 workshop. Past topics have been crime prevention, domestic violence prevention and continuing education. Friday’s workshop will include a panel discussion led by the state director of Head Start, Mary Vanderwert. The foundation’s full report on its scholarship program is at www.pasrmn. org/MELF/Scholarship_Pilot_Research. Register for the workshop by contacting Jensen at (651) 438-4440 or monica. jensen@co.dakota.mn.us. Tad Johnson can be reached at tad.johnson@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Visitors strolled through a garden Saturday, Sept. 15, at Valley Natural Foods in Burnsville, which held an event called Farm Fest 2012. Activities included music by the Eelpout Stringers and tours of Valley’s co-op gardens. More than 20 of Valley’s partners — including cooperatives, farmers, coffee roasters, food producers and distributors — were on hand.

��

� ��

��