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opinion New newspaper debuts today This is the first edition of Sun Thisweek. Managing editor Tad Johnson writes in his column about why you shouldn’t live without it.

sports

Panthers place second at state Lakeville North boys basketball team lost to Osseo 49-47 in the Class 4A state final. The Panthers finish the season with a 30-2 record, best in school history.

thisweekend

Acting dream comes true Diagnosed with cancer, Jana Tack-Norland made a bucket list. She’ll be crossing one item off her list this month when she makes her acting debut.

Farmington

Lakeville

March 30, 2012 | Volume 33 | Number 5

Veterans come Home to work? Civilian job market proves tough to crack as clock ticks for Apple Valley couple

Park dedication fees were an original, unpopular consideration by Aaron Vehling Sun Thisweek

by John Gessner Sun Thisweek

Sam Root’s service in the U.S. Army — the Guard, the Reserve and active duty — has spanned 21 years. Now the gig is up. Sam has been without a military paycheck since last October, and he’s retiring in August, when his last sixyear enlistment expires. “I figured 21 years was a pretty good run,” said the 38-year-old Apple Valley resident, who can’t imagine continuing in the military after a hernia operation and surgery on his left shoulder and left knee. Sam and his wife, Mindy, 33 — a fellow Guard veteran he met while both were training for deployment to Iraq — aren’t completely unprepared for this fallow period, when both lack full-time work and the couple’s second child is on the way. But the clock is ticking on the full-time job that the Roots say at least one of them needs to land. Sam said he’s applied for nearly 50 jobs and landed only two interviews, one for a janitor position. And the $197-a-month military insurance that covers Sam, Mindy, their son, Alton, nearly 2, and Sam’s two children from a previous marriage will expire in August, he said. “Fortunately, we’ve got money to last probably until about July or August to pay the bills,” Sam said. “We wisely were stashing cash for that. If worse comes to worst, I can probably get a contracting job in Afghanistan really easy. That’s kind of our worstcase scenario.” But Sam — who is See civilian, 9A

Lakeville eyes liquor fund for Heritage Center bridge loan

Photo by John Gessner

Sam and Mindy Root of Apple Valley, pictured with their son, Alton, are both veterans re-entering the civilian job market at the same time. Mindy is expecting their second child.

Employment Resource Team deploys to Kuwait to help Rosemountbased Red Bulls by Tad Johnson Sun Thisweek

returned to the United States in November 2010 from a tour in Iraq to find a fork in the road: Stay in active duty and be sent to North Carolina or transition to civilian life and be a part of his young daughters’ lives on a daily basis. He chose the latter. It took another year to transition from active duty to the Na-

The last thing on the minds of U.S. troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan should be whether they have a job waiting for them when they return home. But for many returning veterans the inability to find work is a pervasive problem. It is estimated that the Minnesota unemployment rate is 6.4 to 7.4 percent higher among post Sept. 11, 2001, veterans, which prompted a first-of-its kind Employment Resource Team to deploy this month to Kuwait, where the Rosemount-based 34th Red Bull Infantry Division is outfitted. Jim Finley, veterans employment services director for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), said the effort was a way to get ahead of the curve for the estimated

See search, 8A

See employment, 10A

Photo submitted

Bruce Jensen of Lakeville (right) has been looking for a job for three months. He is pictured here with General Raymond Odierno, who was head of the United States’ Iraq War operation and is currently the Army Chief of Staff.

A veteran’s search for a job: Local organizations available to help by Aaron Vehling Sun Thisweek

In the three months he has been unemployed, Lt. Col. Bruce Jensen, 44, of Lakeville, has sent out more than 50 applications, has had five phone interviews and has been invited for two in-person interviews. Jensen has been in the military for 20 years, half of that on active duty. He

Work on the Heritage Center in Lakeville is progressing. The City Council decided at a work session Monday to use the city’s liquor fund as a source for a bridge loan to Kerrin cover about Swecker $400,000 the city anticipates it will receive from fundraising and the sale of the existing downtown Senior Center over the course of time. Parks and Recreation Department Director Steve Michaud proposed last month to use park dedication funds for that purpose, but it was unpopular with the Council. Park dedication funds are levied on developers to pay for amenities such as parks and trails. This project, which will house the new Senior Center and offices for Lakeville Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and the Lakeville Area Historical Society, was deemed to exist outside those parameters. The liquor fund serves as a suitable alternative, some of the council members said, because it has often been used to pay for various building and improvement projects. This would apply to the Heritage Center, which is a remodel of the former police station. It is set to open this fall. Kerrin Swecker was one of the council members to echo that sentiment with regard to the liquor fund, highlighting precedent. “I don’t think park dedication (funds) should be used at all,” she said. Council Members Laurie Rieb and Matt Little agreed with Swecker that the liquor fund was a good option. Mayor Mark Bellows and Council Member Colleen Ratzlaff LaBeau said they did not want to proceed with the project

See Liquor, 10A

Lakeville North gets close

News Tackling peer pressure Lakeville high school students are teaching younger kids about the dangers of peer pressure.

Photo by Laura Adelmann

The Thin Blue Line Memorial Vehicle was previously driven by North St. Paul police officer Richard Crittenden Sr., who was killed in the line of duty Sept. 7, 2009. The vehicle will appear in parades and events across Dakota County and at the Peace Officer’s Memorial Day event May 15 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Index

Local project is moving tribute to fallen officers

Opinion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4A Public Notices. . . . . . . . 12A Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16A Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . 18A

Thin Blue Line vehicle to travel nation

Announcements . . . . . . 22A

The Thin Blue Line Memorial Vehicle, refurbished in After her mother whis- Schrader’s shop near Farmpered in her ear, the small ington last year, commemoblonde girl stopped excitedly rates the sacrifice of a life pointing at the police car in given for others. Across the Crown Victothe parade. Appearing stunned among ria’s trunk is a list of 261 Minthe people with their hands nesota officers killed in the and hats over their hearts, she line of duty. held an American flag in her Included are five law enleft hand and gave a solemn forcement officials who served wave to Thin Blue Line Me- in Dakota County: deputies morial Vehicle driver Leonard Luther Klug and Rudolph Fischer; Eagan police investiSchrader of Castle Rock. “I waved back,” said the gator Louis Jeska; South St. former police reserve officer, Paul police officer Leo Pav“but here’s this 50-year-old lak; and Hastings police offiman driving this car, crying cer Albert Jacobson. his eyes out.” See tribute, 10A by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

General Information 952-894-1111 Distribution 952-846-2070 Display Advertising 952-846-2011 Classified Advertising 952-846-2000 Photo by Rick Orndorf

Trey Heid is overcome with emotion on the floor of the Target Center as Lakeville North is defeated by Osseo 49-47 on a last second shot to win the 2012 state boys basketball tournament on March 24. The Panthers made a furious second-half comeback after being down for most of the game, but Osseo swished a shot from the corner with no time left to win the championship. This was the first state tournament appearance for a boys Lakeville basketball team. Lakeville North finishes the season with a 30-2 record.

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Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

Lakeville fire victim dies First fire-related death in city in 20 years

A Lakeville man who sustained injuries from a March 4 house fire has died. Arthur Raymond Jones, 84, died on March 25 at Hennepin County Medical Center. On March 4, the Lakeville Police Department responded to a medical assistance call at Kalmar Trail, according to city reports. A neighbor had

not seen an elderly male neighbor in several days and became concerned for his welfare. Upon arrival at the home, police officers found Jones on the kitchen floor with burns to his legs and evidence of a small fire that had extinguished itself in the kitchen. Allina Paramedics responded to the scene and transported Jones

to the Hennepin County Medical Center. Jones regained consciousness before being transported. No foul play is suspected and the Lakeville police and fire departments continue to investigate the cause of the fire. Lakeville Fire Chief Mike Meyer said this is the first firerelated death in Lakeville in 20 years. -Aaron Vehling

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Dakota County property values change Building permits up slightly

Sun Thisweek

Residential property values continued a downward trend in 2012, while agricultural property values increased, according to Dakota County Assessor Bill Peterson. The value of most Dakota County residential properties dropped between 6 and 8 percent in 2012, he told Dakota County commissioners on Tuesday. Some agricultural property values jumped 20 percent in 2012, causing estimated property tax payments to rise in 2013. Commissioner Paul Krause of Lakeville said he has received calls from agricultural property owners worried about the increases. Peterson said the state uses agricultural values from southwest Minnesota to determine true agriculture property values, where land is not influenced by nearby development. “Our county has always gotten ag values from other parts of the state because of the metropolitan influence on lands,” Peterson said in an interview with Sun Thisweek. He added that the farming economy is very good, with corn prices up and farm land selling for

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over $10,000 per acre in some areas. “While locally in townships, land is selling for upwards of $6,000 an acre, the taxable value is at $5,700,” Peterson said. Countywide, property values dropped from $37.7 billion in 2011 to $35.9 billion in 2012, a 4.8 percent decrease. Peterson said about 40 percent of commercial properties saw an average of 2 to 5 percent reductions in their values. Residential construction permits increased from 460 in 2011 to 467 in 2012, a statistic that Peterson said was encouraging that this year would mean better growth in the county. While the numbers are not near pre-recession

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numbers where the county would average 2,500 to 3,000 residential building permits in a year, Peterson said “at least we’re heading in a better direction.” Taxpayers wishing to discuss or challenge their property tax assessments can attend open book meetings scheduled throughout Dakota County in April. The one at the county’s Western Service Center, at 14955 Galaxie Avenue in Apple Valley, is April 10-12 from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

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Laura Adelmann is at laura.adelmann@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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Opinion

March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

You can live without Sun Thisweek, but why should you? by Tad Johnson Sun Thisweek

Is there someone in your life who is always there when you need him or her? It’s the person who listens to your concerns, offers good advice, and has the answers to tough questions. I like to think of this newspaper as that mom, dad, sister, brother, friend or neighbor you can call on for nearly any reason. Today your sounding board, counseling office and information desk just got a whole lot better. This first edition of Sun Thisweek has merged the resources, knowledge and talents of both ECM Publishers and Sun Media Group to roll out a new look, expanded coverage and a strong commitment to be there when you need us – in print or online. Loyal readers view the best media as essential in their lives; something they can’t live without. We listen to readers concerns through letters to the editor and online comments attached to our stories and on our Facebook page. We offer advice – with attribution – from the experts in our communities. We print lots of answers to questions, ranging from softball (even the sporting kind) to hardball. Whether the answers are the right ones depends on your per-

Sun Thisweek Columnist

Tad Johnson

spective. And if you disagree with those answers, remember we are your proverbial soapbox, too. If you haven’t ever considered how our newspaper and website can be essential, think of the information we disseminate about the things in your life – food, water, air, a place to live, a car to drive, clothes to wear, family, friends and community. We write stories about healthy eating, water quality, pollution, new roads and housing developments, in addition to carrying ads for restaurants, car dealers and places to shop. While we carry plenty of information about those “essentials,” we specialize in the “people” part of that list. It’s the part of our work that can best differentiate ourselves in a highly competitive media market and it’s the most satisfying for us and our readers. For the past combined 198 years, Sun, Thisweek and our sister publication, the Dakota County Tribune, have told the sto-

ries of countless people that never would have been written had it not been for a curious reporter with the desire to write the story. We’ve told you about paraplegic artists, cancer survivors, child prodigies, energetic 100-year-olds, life-saving rescue workers and volunteers who give selflessly of themselves for so many causes. Today we are telling you about the challenges facing returning veterans as they seek employment in a very tight job market. We know these are the stories that matter when ticket sales for local arts programs take off after those programs are featured in Thisweekend. We know these stories matter when readers start a fund to pay for surgery for a man injured while breaking up a domestic dispute after we reported he would have been permanently disabled without medical treatment. We know these stories matter when we get a call from someone at a suicide hotline who says a depressed teen just called them after reading their phone number in our story about the topic. Unlike a famous New York Jets quarterback, I never make guarantees, but it is my sincere hope that the momentum we have summoned by creating this new newspaper will result in a greater capacity

to tell more of these kinds of stories. In the coming weeks, we plan to take a look at the problem of and solutions to teen drug abuse, the high cost of youth sports participation, commuting gridlock and much more. While you are enjoying the new look of Sun Thisweek newspaper, I hope you will notice the increased news, sports and arts coverage. And as you are sitting at your computer, cruise on over to the new SunThisweek. com and check out the reorganized menu of choices. We hope you like our additions of Must-Read and featured stories and that you browse the site a bit using are new related-content widget. Remember all of that content you are reading and viewing comes from an editorial staff with over 100 years of combined experience covering Dakota County. We wouldn’t have been here this long and invested so much in merging Sun Thisweek if we didn’t think the people of Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Farmington, Lakeville and Rosemount deserved to have their stories told. We hope you feel the same way. Tad Johnson is managing editor of Sun Thisweek and the Dakota County Tribune. He can be reached at tad.johnson@ecminc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

ECM’s tradition of giving grows stronger This newspaper’s parent company, ECM Publishers Inc., is dedicated not only to publishing news about your community, but to giving thousands of dollars to make your community better. The company’s Community Affairs Council, and its nine local area councils comprised of ECM associates, have during the past 20 years given to community organizations and scholars a grand total of $1,565,400. Of that amount, the ECM board of directors has allocated $1,423,500, while local area councils have raised $141,940. The late Elmer L. Andersen founded the company based on four basic tenets: service to our customers, employees, shareholders and communities.

ECM Editorial The company, through the leadership of publisher Julian Andersen, continues to fund the CAC and to encourage local councils to raise funds and to distribute them to worthy organizations. Over the past 20 years, the local councils in your communities awarded $409,694 for children and family assistance, $210,437 to food shelves, $193,630 to community services, $174,773 to youth services, $105,212 to the physically and mentally challenged and $85,569 to help senior citizens. In addition, local councils organize

food drives. Last year the associates of ECM Publishers Inc. collected a total of 61,600 pounds of food, led by the Caledonia Area Council with 27,073 pounds. The area council in your community also conducts fundraisers with employees, ranging from pop-can recycling to silent auctions. They give those funds to such causes as youth homeless programs, adopted families and holiday projects. That’s not all. The CAC coordinates granting five $3,000 scholarships annually to collegebound students of employees. So far, the company has funded $180,500 in scholarships. Elmer Andersen reminded us many times, “The real reward comes to each who

has been involved with the knowledge that they have made a difference in the lives of others.” ECM is grateful to the employees who lead this remarkable service. Not all community newspapers give back more than a million dollars to the communities in which they publish. We thought you should know that over the past 20 years, the company that publishes your newspaper not only informs you but enriches your community and your lives. This editorial is a product of the ECM Publishers Editorial Board. Sun Thisweek and the Dakota County Tribune are part of ECM Publishers Inc.

State leaders still uncomfortable in new roles by Tom West Sun Thisweek

If you think Minnesota’s state government may be somewhat dysfunctional, I may have stumbled upon a contributing factor. On March 16, I joined 10 other members of the ECM Publishers Editorial Board for a day at the Capitol. We spent 45 minutes of quality time each with DFL Gov. Mark Dayton, Senate Majority Leader Dave Senjem and Senate Minority Leader Tom Bakk individually, and Republican Speaker of the House Kurt Zellers and House Majority Leader Matt Dean together. The only leader we missed was House Minority Leader Paul Thissen. Dayton mentioned that it may be unprecedented that, after the 2010 election, the governor and all of the top legislative leadership positions changed personnel simultaneously. In a stunning change of direction, the governor’s seat went from Republican to DFL, and both houses of the Legislature went from DFL to Republican. After the governor said that may never have happened before, I did some digging, and I think he may be right. The Legislature’s website has complete records on the top positions only back to 1933, but those revealed that no matter which party was in charge, not all of the seats changed hands simultaneously.

Sun Thisweek Columnist

Tom West

Much of that has to do with the state Senate. The Senate has had only 11 majority leaders in all that time. The Legislature was ostensibly non-partisan until 1972. From 1933 to 1972, the Conservatives held the majority, but only four different senators served as majority leader: Sens. Charles Orr, Archie Miller, John Zwach and Stanley Holmquist. The DFL then took control with the 1972 election, but only two senators, Nick Coleman and Roger Moe, served as majority leader from 1973 to 2003. Since then, five people have held the post, a sign of the growing political instability in the state: DFLers John Hottinger, Dean Johnson and Lawrence Pogemiller and Republicans Amy Koch and Senjem. Bakk thought the Republicans were surprised when they gained the Senate majority for the first time in any of its caucus members’ careers. He said, “In 38 years, they never had a majority and didn’t have a clue what to do.” Asked what he considered his biggest

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.

surprise since becoming minority leader, Bakk said, “The degree of their ineptness.” Strong words. Dayton used only slightly less so. Asked what has surprised him the most since becoming governor, he said, “The intransigence of the Legislature. I have never before seen the inability to compromise.” The Republicans, of course, see things differently. Dean said when he first came to the Legislature he was told to vote his conscience first, to vote his constituents’ wishes second and to vote his caucus’ position third. “You pull closest together when you’re getting shot at,” he said, “which we’ve been getting a lot of.” Senjem noted that of the 37 senators of the Republican caucus, 21 are freshmen. He served as minority leader from 2007-2010, and stepped aside when the party gained the majority. However, Koch then resigned after having an affair with a Senate staffer, and the GOP again turned to Senjem. He said his biggest surprise has been, “How important people think this position (majority leader) is. All of a sudden, people seemed to care what I said and what I thought. … I came out of the fabric of (the Mayo Clinic) where one leader doesn’t decide everything.” Zellers said his biggest surprise as speaker has been “the ebbs and flows of every day.” When the GOP took control, it had a $5 billion budget deficit to fix. Today, the state’s financial analysts say Minnesota has a $1.3 billion budget surplus. Zellers said they have a good record to run on because they closed the gap without increasing state taxes. DFLers have charged that local property taxes have gone up significantly, at least in outstate Minnesota, because the Republicans changed the formula re-

garding the homestead credit. Dean countered that, saying, “(The DFL’s) only response is to raise taxes and grow government.” “It isn’t about us,” Zellers said. “It’s about small business owners.” Bakk said that he has never seen a caucus vote with more unity than the Republicans do now. While acknowledging, “they (the Republicans) are very principled,” Bakk characterized the GOP position as “this is what we promised on the campaign trail, and we aren’t going to change, even if we learned something down here.” Zellers said he was proud of progress made by the 33 freshmen GOP legislators. “If you’re not careful, you can learn a heck of a lot down here every day,” he said. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years covering politicians is that when you get to speak with them faceto-face, generally you will find most of them are decent people trying to do the job for which they were elected. With every one of the legislative leaders and the governor in new positions last year, it is less surprising that they all miscalculated about what it would take to pass a budget, thus leading to the summer shutdown last year. You can decide for yourself from the statements above who is being most partisan, but I came away thinking neither side is comfortable in their new roles. Nor should they be. The voters have them on a short leash, and that won’t change any time soon. Tom West is the editor and general manager of the Morrison County Record, which is part of ECM Publishers Inc. He may be reached at (320) 632-2345 or by e-mail at tom.west@mcrecord.com. Columns reflect the opinion of the author.

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Business tax cuts are same old malarkey To the editor: Republican legislators are proposing a further series of business tax cuts with an implied promise of job creation. Historically, tax cuts make the state’s budget-

balancing problems worse, not better, as we try to dig out from under all the school, local government and human service “shifts” the Legislature has made. Moreover, after 20 years of business tax cuts, we have seen job creation nearly static, and our manufacturing sector gutted by outsourcing to China and Mexico.

There is no visible connection between tax cuts and actual job creation or balanced state budgets. What the Republicans are proposing is the same old malarkey that got us into our current mess. WILLIAM J. GRAHAM Burnsville

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

Farmington A place to turn in crisis Mental health urgent care collaborative opens diesel spill cleanup completed by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Recycling business source of leak by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

The amount of diesel spilled into the Vermillion River on March 21 in Farmington was 25 gallons or less, according to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. Hours after Farmington Parks Department workers discovered the diesel leak, roads near Fourth and Willow streets were closed as state, county and local officials worked to contain the fuel from traveling farther down the river, parts of which are a protected trout stream. Officials have concluded the spill came from a storm sewer located on a nearby lot owned by Farmington business owner Collin Garvey. In an interview with Sun Thisweek, Garvey said he had leased the property to Cole Empey since November, and Empey operated a metal-recycling business there without problem. Empey previously operated a similar business in Castle Rock, but shut down after the township took legal action against him for alleged zoning ordinance violations. Rolland Meillier, environmental specialist with Dakota County Environmental Management, said last week at the Castle Rock site Empey had “some minor hazardous waste violations as far as containerizing certain solids, and just organizational stuff.” City Planner Lee Smick said last week Farmington officials were unaware of how big Empey’s new operation had grown, and she cited concerns about possible zoning violations and a lack of business permits for the site. She would only say on Monday that the investigation is ongoing. Garvey said he had notified the Farmington Planning Department that the operation would be located on the lot before he rented it to Empey. “He’s just a guy trying

Today’s The Day Stop Smoking

to make a living,” Garvey said. “He’s a hard-working guy.” Since the incident, Empey has significantly cleaned and organized the Farmington site. In an interview with Sun Thisweek, Empey said he has been waiting “quite a while” for a permit from Dakota County, and that he has cooperated with investigators. He added he has not been told to stop work. Empey said the leak came from an old 45-gallon gas tank and estimated held about 5 gallons of old diesel fuel in it. He said he laid it about 40 to 50 feet from a storm drain, and surmised rain washed the diesel out. “I feel like I’m walking on eggshells, because everyone’s upset with me,” Empey said. “Nobody wants to feel like they’re bugging people. I’m not a jerk of a person.” Empey said he operated a drywall company until the economy and nonpaying customers ended that business. He said he started recycling metal by cleaning up old farm sites; now he buys old machinery of liquidated companies to sell the metal. The MPCA hired Bay West to oversee the river cleanup, which involved floating booms collecting fuel and a vacuum device used to skim it off the river. Farmington Fire Chief Tim Pietsch said on Wednesday that cleanup is complete, but the MPCA may keep floating booms on the river to ensure all the fuel has been collected. Farmington Fire Marshal John Powers said last week that cleanup costs and any possible civil penalties are likely to be billed to the responsible party. He added that if the costs are not paid they will likely be assessed to the property. Laura Adelmann is at laura.adelmann@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

After nearly a decade of multi-jurisdictional planning, residents in three Minnesota counties, including Dakota, have access to urgent care for adults in mental health crisis. Instead of bringing adults who may be depressed, suicidal or irrational to hospital emergency rooms, under a partnership with Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties, adults can receive emergency mental health treatment at a new urgent care facility dedicated to mental health. “We’re talking about a huge culture shift,” said Kirk Fowler, Ramsey County Human Services Department, to a crowd of Dakota County social workers at a March 23 meeting. “There’s probably anywhere from 2,000 to 4,000 folks per year who go to (an east metro) hospital voluntarily, either walk in or dropped off by a family member, who could easily go to an urgent care center,” Fowler said. The new urgent care center, at 402 University Ave. E. in St. Paul, allows patients to receive crisis psychiatric care, assessment, stabilization and support. Dakota County Social Services Supervisor Brian McGlinn said in hospital emergency rooms, patients have waited hours, sometimes even a day, before they are assessed. “So they can sit there in the emergency room or locked in a (padded) room for a number of hours before they are even seen,” McGlinn said. At the adult mental health urgent care, certified peer recovery specialists, people who have received mental health treatment themselves, are available to help calm and guide patients. They also serve as hopeful examples of how to live with a mental health diagnosis. Walk-ins are welcome, and patients do not need to have health insurance to receive services. In the same building is a new detoxification center, because people with mental health needs often also need chemical health treatment, said Brian Smith, a Dakota County social worker. “Someone under the influence has to sober up before we can do a true mental health assessment,” he said. People treated at the urgent care center may be in severe depression, suicidal, paranoid or hearing and see-

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952-892-5300

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Photo by Laura Adelmann

Kirk Fowler, manager with Ramsey County Human Services, informed a crowd of Dakota County social workers March 23 about a new multi-jurisdictional mental health urgent care that is an alternative to hospital emergency rooms. ing things, McGlinn said. “Families may be concerned about their safety, and their ability to take care of themselves,” McGlinn said. Fowler said urgent care patients receive drug and mental health screenings and are stabilized so they can begin receiving psychiatric help quickly. The new system avoids gaps between the time they have an emergency and when they have a consistent mental health provider.

While a collaborative effort, the urgent care services are not meant to replace emergency services also available in Dakota County. A Crisis Response Unit operates 24 hours a day at (952) 891-7171 if a person is an immediate danger to self or others. Available to callers are phone and in-person crisis consulting, intervention, and if needed, crisis beds available through a residential treatment provider contracted by Dakota County.

Ramsey County bonded for $9 million to pay for the urgent care center, and services are funded by the Mental Health Crisis Alliance. Funding includes a two-year, $800,000 grant provided by an anonymous donor. Mental health urgent care can be reached at (651) 266-7900. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

Street eats in Burnsville City Council member to unveil American-style food truck

by John Gessner Sun Thisweek

Customers of the Wicked Palate food truck soon to debut in Burnsville should approach the fare without remorse. The proprietors sure aren’t offering any apologies. They will serve American food writ large, with high regard for flavor and little for calorie or cholesterol count. The still-developing menu will include the “Fat A$$ Burger,” the Palate’s thick double burger. The “OMG Burger” will be topped with pulled pork, deep-fried cracklin pork, caramelized onions and “MOJO” sauce. “Which is our secret sauce,” said Dan Gustafson of Burnsville, who is launching the Wicked Palate with his wife, Suzanne. “We’re going to have some fun with this,” Gustafson said. “This business is not only about providing good food, but people need to have fun when they stop at our truck.” The Wicked Palate will

start arriving in a matter of weeks at parks and business parks in Burnsville, said Gustafson. Last week the couple took delivery of the 20-foot culinary caravan, a trailer hauled up from Georgia and deposited along the curb in front of their Lacota Lane home. The Wicked Palate is a comeback attempt for Gustafson, a two-term City Council member whose Chapter 7 bankruptcy made headlines in 2010. Gustafson, now 59, had $1.28 million in debts discharged in federal bankruptcy court. Before filing for bankruptcy he experienced a sharp, recessiondriven downturn in his business, an Eagan freightforwarding franchise called Concert Group Logistics. The franchisor took over the failing franchise and cancelled Gustafson’s contract. Gustafson claimed $223,375 in assets, the largest of which was his home, worth $212,000 in 2009.

Photo by John Gessner

Dan Gusafson checked out the inside of his new food trailer, which he plans to name the Wicked Palate and cart around Burnsville.

Post-bankruptcy, he worked for nine months as a route manager for the Mendota Heights location of freight company Manna Distribution Services. “It just didn’t work out,” Gustafson said. He and Suzanne pivoted to the growing foodtruck movement in the Twin Cities. “It’s pretty good-sized,” Gustafson said of their investment in the Wicked Palate. “We were blessed by Suzanne’s parents, let’s put it that way. They both died in the past year. She got a small inheritance, (divided among) six kids.” Is it scary launching a Photo by John Gessner Dan Gustafson, a Burnsville City Council member who business at 59? has emerged from bankruptcy, is going into the food-truck “Actually, no one employing me is far scarier,” business with the Wicked Palate. Gustafson said.

“We chose to invest in a business that we thought we could grow,” he said, freely admitting that he would have been a poor candidate for a business loan. “You’ve got to take risk in life if you want reward.” Food trucks in the Twin Cities tend to have gourmet or specialty leanings, leaving an opening for his American fare, said Gustafson, who promises high-quality meats and buns on his truck. “I haven’t eaten off a truck yet that wasn’t good food, and trust me, we’ve tried them,” he said. He’s taking menu advice from a friend, trained chef Nate Bode, the former owner of Burnsville businesses Kraemer’s Ca-

tering and the AppleWood Rustic Grille and AppleWood Event Center. “The core menu is what we came up with, Suzanne and I,” Gustafson said. “Nate is helping us develop the different spices and sauces we’re going to use.” Along with those burgers, entrees will include Chicago-style hot dogs and beef sandwiches and Southern pulled-pork sandwiches. “That’s a Southernstyle pulled pork with the cole slaw on top,” Gustafson said. “In the South, when you order a hot dog or pulled pork, they always ask if you want slaw.” Don’t forget fries. “We’re going to have regular fries and sweet potato fries, like Nate served

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at AppleWood,” said Gustafson, who, after losing his freight franchise, helped Bode at his business before it was felled by what Gustafson described as a recession-driven drop in catering clients. “Nate used to sell out of those all the time.” Gustafson has obtained a transient merchant permit from the city of Burnsville and was in the process of finalizing a license from the state Department of Health. “You can park your truck on any (Burnsville) street it’s legal to park on,” he said. “Because I’m a council member, I did my diligence. I went from the city attorney on down, talking to people about how to make this thing work.” He and Suzanne hope to draw enough business to hire an employee or two. For now, Dan said, the Wicked Palate will remain in Burnsville. Where, exactly? “All over — wherever there’s a crowd,” he said. John Gessner is at john. gessner@ecm-inc.com.

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Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

Teens teach fourth-graders about peer pressure U of M Extension program aims to illustrate dangers of drugs, alcohol

by Aaron Vehling Sun Thisweek

Lakeville North senior Alexa Kloncz held a jar up for all the class to see. The brown sludge rolled slowly like molasses as Kloncz tipped the jar in various directions. The fourth-graders in Joe Hemann’s class at Oak Hills Elementary in Lakeville looked aghast. The tar-filled jar served as a powerful visual aid to complement Lakeville North senior Olivia Gustafson’s lesson about the dangers of cigarettes. Its contents amounted to the tar from a year of smoking. “I think cigarettes should be against the law forever,” blurted out one girl. There was a series of visual aids on display for the students to understand some of the 4,000 chemicals in cigarettes: a vial of formaldehyde and accompanying fake frog to illustrate that chemical’s preservation properties; rat poison, toilet bowl cleaner; batteries (to represent battery acid); and a candle wax, among others. The students also underwent an experiment centered on breathing through straws, to simulate the effect on respiration associated with smoking. Students expressed varying degrees of awe and disgust as Gustafson and Kloncz navigated information on the ills of all types of tobacco. One student

admitted that her parents smoked and that she was going to tell them all about the dangers. The Kids Teaching Kids program is provided by the University of Minnesota’s Extension service. High school teens volunteer to teach elementary students about various chemical and peer pressure issues over the course of three sessions. Bryan Wilkom, Extension’s Dakota County coordinator for the program, said there is immense value in using the practice known in the education community as “cross-age teaching.” It is one thing for a teacher or another adult to lecture, but there is extra power in the student-to-student peer connection. “Younger kids see high school students in the classroom and their eyes light up,” he said. Judy Johnson, the Lakeville school district’s chemical prevention specialist, said the program has been active in Lakeville since the mid1990s. A federal “Safe and Drug-Free Schools” grant had funded the program for the bulk of that time. But the funding was cut last year and so Johnson sought a $3,500 grant from the Lakeville Education Foundation to keep it going. She is not sure where funding will come from next year and beyond. For Gustafson, the pro-

Photo by Aaron Vehling

Lakeville North senior Alexa Kloncz shows Oak Hills Elementary fourth-graders a jar filled with tar as Lakeville North senior Olivia Gustafson discusses the dangers of cigarette smoking. gram is about connecting with the students as a form of early intervention. “I realized that substance abuse has gotten out of hand in high school,” she said. “If you teach them when they are younger, they will realize the bad effects when they are older (when peer pressure is stronger).” It is also rewarding to spend time with the young students. “They are super fun and energetic,” she said. Gustafson and Kloncz also showed a video starring kids in peer pressure settings. One week the program centered on alcohol. The

video they showed at the Friday session last week depicted typical scenarios relating to chewing tobacco and smoking. It also echoed

a lesson Gustafson and Kloncz gave about advertising, designed to give the students the power to see through the psychology of

certain types of marketing. At the end of the session, two Lakeville North teens read the fourth-graders’ anonymous questions on index cards and passed out a letter for the children to give to their parents. “It’s a way to keep parents involved,” Wilkom said. Among the major components of the lesson that the young people are to use is a three-part mantra for fending off temptation: Be candid (speak up/against peer pressure); be prepared (think about reasons not to drink alcohol or do drugs or smoke); and be yourself (make positive choices). Gustafson hopes the program has an impact, “It’s important for the youth to know these things.” Aaron Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

Search/from 1A tional Guard. “That was a family decision,” he said. “They need their father in their lives.” Unemployment has been frustrating, Jensen said, but he is “not ready to throw in the towel just yet.” The unemployment rate for veterans who served post-9/11 was 12.1 percent in 2011, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A survey by the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America of 4,000 military members puts the rate closer to 17 percent. Add to that the lifestyle transition from a constantly stressful combat situation to the vastly different world of civilian life, and the challenges veterans like Jensen face are daunting. Right now he could technically be qualified as “very underemployed,” because he works one

weekend a month with the National Guard at Camp Ripley as a comptroller for the U.S. Property and Finance Office. But that is not enough on which to raise two daughters, ages 10 and 13. “Looking for a job is kind of like sales,” he said. “You need to fill your funnel full of names. Also, ask for help. So many people are oriented toward helping vets.” Jensen’s active duty military experience involved overseeing a staff of about eight people at the U.S. Joint Special Operations Command in Baghdad. His team issued regular briefings to Gen. Raymond Odierno, commanding general of the U.S. Iraq War efforts. Outside of his military experience, Jensen has an accounting degree from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn., is a certified public accountant and has about 10 years of experience in sales and ac-

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counting he earned while serving as a reservist prior to 2002, when he went into active duty. The Army paid well, he said. Nowadays, Jensen tries to seek out and apply for at least one job a day, or book an informational interview or networking meeting each day. “I’m trying to maintain a positive attitude,” Jensen said, conceding that a constant upbeat attitude is impossible. “You just have to keep that ‘warrior ethos’ – like we like to call it in the military – and keep plugging away.” To get job interviews, Jensen has relied heavily on personal contacts, “rather than sending an application into the abyss.” “It’s about getting your story out there,” Jensen said. “That is so important.” He still recommends applying for jobs online if that is required. But working those contacts is key. “A person could literally lock themselves up for 40 hours a week on their computer, sending applications out until they are blue in the face,” he said. Jensen has found in his job searches that companies often use software to detect buzzwords in applicants’ resumes. This makes it hard for someone like Jensen, with nuanced experiences, to articulate them on paper. His resume in the federal system is 12 pages long, he said. That format allows for a more complete picture of his job history, but it doesn’t translate to the civilian sector.

“It has got all my certifications, awards, courses. … It goes into the ‘nth’ detail about what I did for different jobs,” he said. “I wish I could use my government resume for civilian jobs.” Which is why personal connections are so valuable. “Utilize the local unemployment center vet rep,” he said. “Network with people you know … friends that perhaps you won’t get a job from, but might know people.” Local organizations that can help in Lakeville include churches and Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. Jensen also recommends veterans try LinkedIn, the professional social media site that can connect job-seekers with job-providers. Jensen seeks help from resources such as the veterans services of the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and his community at Trinity Evangelical Free Church in Lakeville.

Back to school

But for veterans who do not have Jensen’s credentials and are looking to go back to school, Dakota County Technical College might have a solution. In August it debuts its web-centric Yellow Ribbon Entrepreneurs Initiative, a veterans-oriented offshoot of DCTC’s existing entrepreneurial program. Program instructor Christine Pigsley said the inspiration for it came from her experience as DCTC dean of students. “I was seeing veterans coming back to college and having a hard time fitting into the mainstream college system,” she said. “They were often missing class because of issues such as PTSD (post-trau-

matic stress disorder) or the needs of their family as part of the reintegration process.” Jobs were an issue, too. It is illegal for an employer to not save a space for a vet’s return to his or her old job, but the exact job description does not have to be the same. “Self-employment seemed like a natural fit,” Pigsley said. “They could use the military experience and skills they had gained to create a new job for themselves with more flexibility than in a traditional 8-to-5 job.” Veterans are in an especially good position to return to college and study in fields such as entrepreneurship. As part of the GI Bill, the federal government covers most of a veteran’s tuition and materials, Pigsley said. To top it off, she said, veterans can still qualify for financial aid. Pigsley and DCTC staff members surveyed veterans who were currently attending the school. “Flexibility was the key,” she said. In this case, flexibility meant making the program Internet-oriented, she said, “so students could go to school at the time when they were most effective; some during the night and others during the day. If a student has a bad day, they can do their school work on the next day.” Family was also key. DCTC sees the program as a family affair centered around a veterans-only cohort. This allows for them to support each other as they progress through the program. There is also the opportunity through Credit from Prior Learning, which Pigsley said awards veterans college credit for past post-secondary coursework and military

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experience and training. To achieve its goal of a 30-student cohort, DCTC is taking advantage of the online component to “branch out nationally, even internationally … if we had a cohort group that was going to deploy and we had soldiers interested in taking online courses together while deployed,” Pigsley said. “It really makes our program globally applicable and, we believe, unique.” For more information on the program, go to DCTC’s website (http://blogs.dctc.edu/youblue/2012/03/08/yellowribbon-entrepreneurs/).

Maintaining perspective

Meanwhile, Jensen tries to maintain some perspective in his job search. He said he realizes that with a large number of veterans and nonveterans seeking jobs, it is a “classic supply and demand issue.” Jensen has informational interviews coming up, and by sticking with his networking methods and warrior ethos, he is optimistic that he will soon find an accounting/operations job. In the midst of active duty in Baghdad, Jensen took that time to contemplate what he really wanted out of life when he returned to Lakeville. The single father finds himself coaching his daughter’s track team and passing the time with both his children as much as he can. “I want to be able to have a day job and spend time in the evenings with my family,” he said. “The American Dream is really ‘it.’ ” Aaron Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek.

Civilian/from 1A trained in ground surveillance radar operation and electronic warfare signals intelligence — hates the thought of once again leaving his family, including 11-year-old Becca and 12-year-old Noah. His last deployment, to Iraq, ended in 2007 and consumed 22 months of preparation and service in country. “I missed all of Becca’s kindergarten and first grade, and all of Noah’s first and second grade,” Sam said. “I don’t want to do that again.” Despite his training as an intelligence analyst and the administrative work he’s done for the Guard, Sam said his job search is likely hampered by his lack of a college degree. Not that the 1992 Eagan High School graduate would trade his years of service. He did his basic training between his junior and senior years in high school. “It’s in my blood,” Sam said. “I’m not sure how many greats it is grandfather, but he was captain of the militia on the Mayflower, Miles Standish. My family on my mother’s side has fought in every war the U.S. has been in. It just was my calling, I guess.” He went straight into the Army Reserve and signed up for four years of active duty in 1993. When that was over Sam joined the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division of the Minnesota National Guard. “I was going nuts without the Army,” Sam said. “I loved the brotherhood.” While doing weekend warrior duty, Sam worked on the ground crew for Northwest Airlines. “I was a bag-smasher,” he said. In late 2000 Sam started a temporary Guard job processing security clearances in preparation for a Red Bull deployment to Bosnia. After that he returned to stacking luggage for Northwest — “a pretty mindless job” — until training for his Iraq deployment began in 2005. Sam said his deployment included three months’ duty on a gun truck.

“I got shot at twice,” he said. “Fortunately, there were no IEDs.” After the deployment, which Sam said was lengthened for three months by President Bush’s troop surge, Sam returned to Northwest Airlines. But in the last few years he’s been a self-proclaimed “Guard bum,” taking temporary job assignments as they came. He said he coordinated training and intake of new equipment in preparation for deployment of the 34th Infantry Division’s headquarters to Iraq. “We had 24 different contracts. We had 27 systems,” Sam said. “It was worth $240 million. All sorts of stuff, from new weapons to communications gear. We trained 900 soldiers in a nine-month period.” After that he landed a job at the Minnesota National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in St. Paul. “I was their all-hazards intelligence analyst,” Sam said. “The first thing I did when I got there was preparing for the 2009 flood.” The assignment ran out, and so has a six-month waiver that kept Sam employed in temporary positions longer than Guard protocol allows. Mindy, a stay-at-home mom after Alton was born, is in the midst of her own job search. She’s a substitute paraprofessional in School District 196. “She’s re-entering the work force for the first time in a few years, too,” Sam said. “She has her communications degree and she’s close to getting her master’s. I think that’s the reason she’s getting more interviews than me.” Sam would love to work

as a crime analyst for a police department, or maybe as a veterans service representative with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. He’s applied to Target, Best Buy and other companies that he figures could put his intelligence and security knowhow to work. There’s always Afghanistan. Or maybe, Sam said, a government intelligence job in Washington, D.C. “I have been a little selective on where I’ve put my application in,” he said. “I want to enjoy my job. It’s getting to the point, though, where I’m going to start applying for the jobs I don’t want.” John Gessner can be reached at john.gessner@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

In Brief

There are two online resources for Minnesota businesses and veterans to tap into: • Positivelyminnesota. com/veterans allows businesses to post openings and allows veterans to search postings in addition to having tools to help them in their searches. • Minnesotaworks.net is the state’s labor exchange pool, which is free for businesses and job seekers. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development will have its Veterans Career Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 11 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center, 6155 Earle Brown Drive, in Brooklyn Center. Up to 100 Minnesota businesses are expected to have booths at the event, which will be pre ceeded by a job-search workshop for veterans from 9-10 a.m.

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Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

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Tribute/from 1A Created in 2011, the moving legacy is scheduled to appear at local and national events this year, including in Washington, D.C. The vehicle was once driven by North St. Paul police officer Richard Crittenden Sr., who was shot and killed Sept. 7, 2009, while protecting a woman and her daughter from a repeat violent offender. Purchased at auction by Crittenden’s widow, Christine, the squad has been painted and once again equipped with sirens and lights. Graphics of a bald eagle in flight, riding wings of stars and stripes, are displayed on both sides of the vehicle, and

another more detailed eagle design is planned to be displayed across its hood. Two flags, mounted in special holders, are carried in the vehicle’s front end during events. A memorial to Crittenden appears on each side with his name and photo. Driving the vehicle, said Schrader, is a “privilege” and a way to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Schrader, owner of a police equipment installation business near Farmington, said “countless” hours have been put into assembling and maintaining the memorial vehicle. Equipped with a light bar, siren, speakers and public address system for

parades, the vehicle is scheduled to appear in Lakeville’s Pan-O-Prog parade and in Hastings this summer. Organizers plan for the vehicle to appear in parades at Burnsville’s Fire Muster, Farmington’s Dew Days and Rosemount’s Leprechaun Days, said retired Northfield police Capt. Roger Schroeder, another of the memorial’s organizers. On May 15, the vehicle will appear in Washington, D.C., for Peace Officers Memorial Day, an annual event during Police Week to honor America’s fallen officers and the families left behind. Along the way, the Thin Blue Line Memorial Vehicle will appear at memorial

events in Mississippi, Tennessee and Kentucky. “We’re looking for smalltown America events,” Schroeder said. Minnesota officers’ funerals are the top priority for use of the vehicle, available at the family’s request, Schrader said. “If we’re requested by a family, we’ll be there,” he said. “It is truly, truly an honor to drive this car anywhere we go, and to tell people of the daily sacrifice that Minnesota law enforcement makes.” For more information and to request a visit, go to www. tblmemorialvehicle.com.

Liquor/from 1A

that would eventually be reimbursed from the sale of the current building. The balance would need to come from fundraising. So far, Michaud said, the city has raised about $55,000 toward the project. The city received lowerthan-expected bids on the project, in addition to some reprieve with regard to the amount of money the city would have to repay the fed-

eral government in community development block grants connected to the current Senior Center building. This brings the cost of the project down from $1,120,000 to $1,095,524. The City Council is expected to vote on approval of the bid award in April.

cused in such areas as building a resume, job interviewing, networking, and organizing a job search. In addition to DEED staff, representatives from the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, U.S. Bank, Best Buy and Target conducted workshops. Finding work is necessary because Finley says having a job solves a lot of other problems that soldiers will already face. Those include reconnecting with family, friends and their community; concerns about finances, and overcoming negative psychological issues related to their service (of which about 49 percent of National Guard members encounter to some degree, according to a 2007 Department of Defense report). “Most of these (veterans) are going to come back with none of these issues,” Finley said. “Unfortunately the ones you are going to hear about are the ones who have issues. Our hearts break every time we read about these (veterans who have problems).” Finley knows the value of community support services

because he saw the negative effects when many of his fellow soldiers were derided and dismissed when they returned home from the Vietnam War. “We are all veterans,” Finley said. “We have been through our reintegration. We have been through all of the things these veterans are going through.” He said about half of his staff served in a recent conflict, which helps them to stay current with challenges. For a department whose motto is “Serving America’s Finest,” its sole purpose is to help these veterans find work. To that end, Finley said his co-workers feel very responsible for each veteran and had to put forth this extraordinary effort in Kuwait to help them find success. “It was an incredible experience,” Finley said. “I think everyone on our team would agree with that. “We wanted to get in front of all of these soldiers,” Finley said. “I am sleeping better at night because we were able to do that.”

until the current Senior Center building is sold. “The former police station stands as a monument to government ineptness and inefficiency,” Bellows said. Before its current remodel, the former police station was vacant for about four years. Of the approximately $400,000 the city would need to cover, about $208,000 of

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20 percent of the 2,700 soonto-be returning Minnesota veterans who don’t have a job waiting for them. Organized by the Minnesota National Guard, the program helped his office, which provides intensive services to about 4,000 veterans annually, to prepare for the influx of unemployed veterans. Finley said the program planned to connect with about 550 Minnesota service members over five days, but it ended up reaching 1,100 troops from 10 different states. A majority of those veterans are in their early 20s and don’t have much work experience beyond their military service. “The Red Bulls is an infantry division,” Finley said. “Because of the nature of their work and that they are younger soldiers, we see that high unemployment rate. “They may not have had a job when they were deployed,” Finley said. “A number of them left unemployed.” The workshops, of which six were held each day, fo-

Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Aaron Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Tad Johnson can be reached at tad.johnson@ecm-inc.com.

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

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Photo by Rick Orndorf

Riders participate in last years Ironman bike ride that starts and ends in the city of Lakeville. The event is slated for the first Sunday in May this year.

City, cyclists prepare for Ironman Annual event slated May 6 in Lakeville

by Michael Ricci Sun Thisweek

With the event a few weeks away, preparation required to accommodate thousands of riders is in full swing for what has been described as the kickoff to the outdoor bicycling season. The 2012 Minnesota Ironman Bicycle ride will begin and end in Lakeville on Sunday, May 6, at Lakeville North High School, 19600 Ipava Ave. The event marks the 13th consecutive year the state’s longest, and one of the largest, tours to start and finish within the city. The shorter routes are almost entirely within city limits. The Ironman ride is the primary means of funding for the Minnesota Council of Hostelling International, whose mission is to develop culturally sensitive world citizens through educational programs, promotion of responsible travel, and positive hostelling experiences. According to Jon Ridge, Ironman director, the ride is the perfect way to kick off the spring biking season, and it continues to offer a number of features to which riders can look forward. This includes four route options. “This allows for all levels of riders to find a distance that meets their interest and level of riding challenge,” Ridge said. “When the weather is lousy we often see riders switch to a shorter route allowing them to still finish the ride even on a bad weather day.” Ridge added that sections of each route may follow along with other routes, but they split off as needed to cover the various distances offered. Beginning in Lakeville, the 68-mile route heads west to Jordan along with the 100-mile route. “At this 22-mile mark, riders will choose between the 68 or 100-mile route,” Ridge said. “The 68-mile route continues through

New Prague and on to the second rest stop of Lonsdale before returning to Lakeville. The 100-mile route will offer rest stops in Le Sueur, Montgomery and Lonsdale.” The ride continues to offer two popular route options of 17 and 30 miles, which wind through Lakeville, Prior Lake and Burnsville. These shorter routes offer fully stocked rest stops. Though the Ironman event may be a dream to the Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce due to the thousands of people who will be descending upon the city the first Sunday of May, organizers still have work to do. Lakeville Police Chief Tom Vonhof said the first planning meeting for the upcoming Ironman ride this year occurred March 31, 2011, and one command staff person attends all the planning sessions. But certainly more than one of Lakeville’s finest is needed the day of the event. “We dedicate one supervisor for the all-day event,

and in 2011 we had a total of 22 officers, including both sworn and volunteer police reserve, work the event,” he said. “All of the costs of the additional police staffing are paid for by the Ironman organizers.” Vonhof added that the biggest challenge each year is planning and coordinating the event and that due to shorter routes being almost entirely in Lakeville, “there is a significant amount of coordination needed between the ... police, parks, and public works departments. To facilitate the planning and coordination, we have (many) planning sessions with Hostelling International.” The chief noted the one area in which all concerned benefit. “We are very fortunate in Lakeville to have a site in LNHS, which is very conducive to handling the volume of both people and vehicles associated with the event,” he said. “The volume impact of persons and vehicles is also lessSee Ironman, 12A

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Ironman/from 11A ened to some degree by the variety of the lengths of the ride routes, as not everyone shows up at the same time of the day to begin their ride.” Mike Popovich of Burnsville is a 59-yearold who has taken part in the ride each of the past four years, in addition to several years prior, since the ride was relocated to Lakeville more than 12 years ago. “I really enjoy it. It’s a very serious hobby with

me,” he said, adding that he owns many bicycles with the newest being around 15 years old. “It’s got a lot of intrinsic value in the machine.” Popovich said he is not obsessed with the activity like some riders, but he instead takes pride in getting the most out of his ride. “I don’t have all of the latest and greatest stuff,” he said. Popovich said he has one bike that he has ridden more than 10,000 miles. Popovich began train-

ing for this year’s event earlier this year. “(Late winter) is the time of the year I do a lot of strength training, alternating with inside bike riding,” he said. Popovich said he uses a wind trainer - a device that allows one to ride a bike indoors while remaining stationary - to help prepare, along with maintaining his equipment. “Those are just the things that you prepare for,” he said. “You just want to succeed, so you set yourself up to do that.”

Popovich defines success by enjoying the ride and taking all of the scenery in, not finishing as quickly as possible since the event is a tour and not a race. “The main objective is to complete the ride and have fun doing it,” he said. However, this does not mean that the ride comes without challenges, such as cold weather and even snow once in a while. “At least if you are in decent shape, the physical is easier,” he said. “You just need to get past the

mental aspect.” Popovich said what he enjoys most about the annual event is the ride itself and camaraderie with other riders. “I look forward to it ever year,” he said. “It’s like opening day.” Riders who sign up as a team or group of eight or more will get a $5 discount on registrations made on or before March 31. The ride and registration hotline is (651) 2511495. The website is ironmanbikeride.org.

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Credit River Township Board Meeting Monday, April 2, 2012, 6pm Agenda 6 PM: Call Meeting to Order, Pledge of Allegiance 1) Approve or Amend Agenda 2) Consent Agenda 1) M a r ch 5 , 2 01 2 Bo a rd M e e t i n g Notes 2) March 19, 2012 Board Meeting Notes 3) February 2012 Treasurer's Report 4) March 2012 Developer's Escrow Statement 3) Open Forum 4) Old Business 1) Three Rivers Parks, Cleary Lake master plan 2) Township parks update 5) New Business 1) SCTA Update 2) Board Reorganization 6) Road Report 7) Treasurer's Report 1) Transfer Funds 2) Lakeview Bank CD 3) Escrow Update 4) Township Financial Advisor 8) Clerk's Report 1) MAT Conference 2) Audit Report Update 3) MAT paperwork for Boards 4) UND Alumni Association Charitable gambling permit for the Legends Club. June 11, 2012. 9) Review and Pay Bills 10) Adjourn 2955040 3/30/12

�� District 192 School Board Proceedings

This is a summary of the ISD 192 Regular School Board Meeting on Monday, January 9, 2012 with full text available for public i n s p e c t i o n o n t h e D i s t r i c t w e b s i t e at or District www.farmington.k12.mn.us Office at 421 Walnut Street, Farmington, MN 55024. Superintendent Haugen called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Members Sauser, Treakle, Lee, McKnight, Burke, Singewald and Superintendent Haugen were present as well as other staff and community members. Board Member Tera Lee was nominated as Board Chair, Board Member Treakle was nominated as Vice Chair, Board Member Sauser was elected Clerk, and Board Member McKnight was elected Treasurer. Chair Lee assigned board members to the 2012 standing committees. The Board discussed the current salaries and stipends. A motion was approved to establish the 2012 salaries for the board members at $4,200 for the Board Chair and $3,600 for all other members and no compensation for other meetings. A $30 stipend is paid to members for each negotiations, retreats, and non-regularly scheduled meetings. Board members shall be paid an addition $30 per hour beyond the initial three hours for negotiations, retreats, and non-regularly scheduled meetings. Recommended Actions Approved: Resolution Authorizing the Sale of $16,350,000 General Obligation Tax and Aid Anticipation Certificates. Superintendent Haugen shared the good news and provided an update on his first six months as Superintendent. The following Consent Agenda items were approved: Certified Employments, Certified Resignations, Certified Leave of Absences, Non-Certified Employments, Non-Certified Resignations, Non-Certified Leave of Absences, Extra-Curricular Employments, 12/12/11 School Board Meeting Minutes, Grant Application Approvals, Extended Field trips, and gifts and donations. Reports and communications approved: Riverview and Meadowview Elementary School Improvement Plan Reports, School Board Meeting Format, Facilities Update, and Budget Update. Recommended Actions Approved: Resolution Authorizing the Sale of General Obligation Tax and Aid Anticipation Certificates, Designation of the District Local Education Agency (LEA) Representative, and adopt 2011-12 Budget Amendments. Board members shared their remarks. Adjournment at 9:15 p.m. __________________________________ This is a summary of the ISD 192 Regular School Board Meeting on Monday, January 23, 2012 with full text available for public i n s p e c t i o n o n t h e D i s t r i c t w e b s i t e at or District www.farmington.k12.mn.us Office at 421 Walnut Street, Farmington, MN 55024. Chair Lee called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. Members Singewald, McKnight, Lee, Burke, Treakle, Sauser and Superintendent Haugen were present as well as other staff and community members. Superintendent Haugen shared the good news and provided a review of the community round table meetings held in December. Mr. Ken Porter, parent and community member, spoke regarding program offerings in the district. Ms. Lisa Drewry, former Farmington student, spoke regarding the German program and how it prepared her for college. Ms. Peggy Olson, parent and community member, spoke regarding the German program and her son's success. The following Consent Agenda items were approved: January Claims and Accounts, Certified Employments, Certified Retirement, Certified Change of Status, Non-Certified Employments, Non-Certified Resignations, 1/9/12 School Board Meeting Minutes, gifts and donations, the audit report, and AMSD membership. Reports and communications approved: Farmington Elementary School Improvement Plan Report, Technology for Customization Report, MSBA Conference update, and Strategic Planning update. Recommended Actions Approved: Strategic Planning. Board members shared their remarks. Adjournment at 8:05 p.m. ___________________________________ This is a summary of the ISD 192 Special School Board Work Session on Monday, January 23, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on the District website at or District www.farmington.k12.mn.us Office at 421 Walnut Street, Farmington, MN 55024. Chair Lee called the meeting to order at 4:30 p.m. Members Burke, Treakle, Lee, McKnight, Sauser, Singewald and Superintendent Haugen were present as well as other staff and community members. Audit Report -Mr. Carl Colmark introduced Mr. Matt Meyer with KDV. He reviewed the comprehensive annual financial report including financial statements and the management letter. They offered an unqualified opinion which is the best opinion that they can give a district. German Program Discussion - Mr. Caleb Drexler Booth reviewed the enrollment for German and the attrition rates. Board members reviewed the options and discussed next steps. Adjournment at 5:58 p.m. 2951142 3/30/12

A mission of love Apple Valley Medical Clinic doctor and nurse provide health care in impoverished Peru

by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

Sue Seline called it “the most amazing experience of my life.” Seline, a nurse, and Dr. Katie Klingberg, both of the Apple Valley Medical Clinic, recently spent a week providing medical care to the poverty-stricken residents of Chimbote, Peru. The mission trip through Los Amigos Medical Aid, a group of medical professionals who volunteer their time and pay their own expenses to treat individuals in impoverished areas, saw Seline and Klingberg’s team of about 50 doctors, nurses and dentists providing care Feb. 25-March 3 to about 4,000 people in an old church converted into a clinic.

“I have never seen poverty like that before,” Seline said. “The people I helped, the people I met – it was such a humbling, eye-opening experience for me.” Life expectancy in Chimbote is 10 years less than in the rest of Peru due to illnesses such as tuberculosis and polio that can be prevented with vaccines. A former thriving fishing village, Chimbote was hit by economic difficulties that forced people to move inland where they now live in crowded shacks with no running water, and no means of support for their families. With the exception of some “controlled chaos” at the makeshift clinic, Klingberg said the treatment she provided in Chimbote

wasn’t much different than what she provides in Minnesota. “The difference was they can’t afford ibuprofen or simple over-the-counters,” said Klingberg, a family medicine specialist who also has volunteered on medical mission trips in the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica. The Apple Valley Medical Clinic donated $1,500 for the mission trip, and the money was used to purchase mattresses and bed frames for families who previously had been sleeping on the floor. Seline and Klingberg personally delivered a set of bunk beds to a family with a 15-year-old son who, because of bone cancer, had one of his legs amputated.

“We met the family and the son – that was probably the best experience of the whole trip,” Seline said. More striking than the heart-rending poverty in Chimbote, Klingberg said, was the joy of the people and the gratitude they had for the simple medical care provided. “I received a hug, a thank you, bright eyes and smiles that will fill me for months to come,” Klingberg said. “You go there expecting to change things, but you’re the one who’s changed.” To learn more about mission work in Chimbote, visit Friendsofchimbote.org. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek.

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

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Flint Hills seeks advisory council members The Community Advisory Council to Flint Hills Resources Pine Bend Refinery is seeking six new members to fill positions of current members whose terms will expire in May 2012. The new members must be residents Apple Valley, Rosemount, Nininger Township or Vermillion Township. The council, in operation since December 1998, provides community volunteers an opportunity to discuss issues and make recommendations to Flint Hills Resources regarding environmental, safety, and other issues of concern. In addition to the previously mentioned areas,

members of the council are from Coates, Eagan, Empire Township, Hastings and Inver Grove Heights. Monthly meetings are held September through May and are led by a professional facilitator. Childcare costs are reimbursed for expenses incurred while attending council meetings. Applicants must complete an application and return it postmarked no later than April 20, 2012 to: Community Advisory Council, P.O. Box 110, Rosemount, MN 550680110. To obtain an application, call (651) 429-8391 or go to the council’s website at www.finthillscac.org.

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March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

Thisweekend Bucket list brings her to the stage Diagnosed with cancer, Jana Tack-Norland fulfills acting dream

by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

There’s an urgency to Jana Tack-Norland’s bucket list. The 54-year-old Savage resident was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in June of 2010, and underwent surgery to have a tumor removed from her abdomen. It was during the two and a half months she took off work to recover from the surgery that she drew up a list of all the things she wants to do before she dies. This month, she gets to cross “act in a play” off her list. She’s cast as the funloving eccentric Rema Jean in “Mama Won’t Fly,” an ensemble comedy opening April 13 at the Lakeville Area Arts Center. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Tack-Norland, a social worker whose only prior acting experience is a school play in junior high. “In a roundabout way, cancer motivated me to pursue a dream.” After chancing upon an online auditions announcement for the play being produced by the Lakevillebased community theater group Expressions, TackNorland decided to take the plunge. “I walked in (to auditions) and I was totally

intimidated by all these people who have a theater background,” she said. “I thought, they’re gonna think I’m a nut.” Shortly after auditions, she got a call from Andy Wilkins, the show’s director, offering her a part. “I was absolutely overjoyed – I didn’t think I’d hear back. If he had offered me a job as a prop person, or even a job scrubbing toilets, I would’ve done it,” she said with a laugh. Wilkins said Tack-Norland’s lack of stage experience is overshadowed by the zest she’s brought to the stage during rehearsals. “It’s really nice to see someone with that much enthusiasm,” he said. “She’s brought out the sort of sassiness I was looking for in the character. … She’s really just stepped in and helped bring the character to life.” To stave off stage fright, she’s made one request of friends and family who will be coming to see her perform. “The only thing I’ve asked is for everybody not to tell me the night they’re coming,” she said. Acting in a play is the first of three items on Tack-Norland’s bucket list. This fall, provided her health remains stable, she’ll be traveling to England, Scotland and Wales with her daughter. And next

Photo by Andrew Miller

With a ninth-grade play her only prior acting experience, Jana Tack-Norland said she didn’t have high hopes of landing a part when she auditioned for “Mama Won’t Fly” in Lakeville. “I walked in (to auditions) and I was totally intimidated by all these people who have a theater background,” she said. “I thought, they’re gonna think I’m a nut.” year she hopes to take part in a cattle drive. “I’m a cowgirl, I own a horse, and I’ve always wanted to go out West and do a cattle drive,” she said. “When I tell people this they think I’m crazy.”

Her role in “Mama Won’t Fly” is modest – about 15 lines in a single scene in the first act. But the experience, she said, has been a dream come true. “It’s a really nice diver-

sion from living with my illness, which has a high probability of coming back, usually with a vengeance,” she said. “I try to keep busy and stay positive, and this has been wonderful – it’s like adult play

time. “It’s really been the time of my life.” Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Farmington Community Theater debuts ‘The Odd Couple’ opens Friday in the high school’s Recital Hall

by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Local actors have invested their time, talent and even their furniture to bring theater to Farmington. The Farmington Community Theater will debut Friday and Saturday with its first performance, “The Odd Couple,” at the recital hall in Farmington High School. “We’ll be the first ones to do an actual show on that stage,” said Ana Hellzen, the play’s director and

Farmington Community Theater’s artistic director. “It has only been used for concerts and dance recitals.” Hellzen, a Lakeville resident, was recruited to start the intergenerational community theater group by Dayna Railton, director of The Play’s the Thing Productions, a nonprofit children’s community theater group that performs in Burnsville, Lakeville and Farmington. Hellzen intends for the Farmington Community

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See Theater, 15A Photo by Laura Adelmann

Jim Berger of Eagan and Tony Sasso of Rosemount star in “The Odd Couple,” Farmington Community Theater’s first production.

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Theater to attract participants from youths to seniors to perform or work behind the scenes in productions that she said will include major musicals. She hopes to receive a grant to cover significant royalty fees for the group’s first musical this fall, which may be “Mamma Mia,” “The Music Man” or “South Pacific.” With funds tight, actors in “The Odd Couple” have provided their own costumes, props and even donated furniture to help the fledgling theater group.

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Theater/from 14A “We’re building from the bottom up,” Hellzen said. “The set is open, so it leaves it to the imagination what the walls look like.” The theater group intends to share its props and costumes with the high school theater department and will raise funds so a stage curtain and rigging can be installed in the recital hall. “We are trying to start pooling our resources together … do some more plays and build up money so we can do bigger productions and shows,” Hellzen said. “The Odd Couple” features Jim Berger of Eagan as tidy, sinus-honking Felix Unger and Tony Sasso of Rosemount as sloppy, cigarsmoking Oscar Madison. Other actors include Gordy Schmidt of Farmington; Catherine Hunter of Burnsville; Franklin Heller of Mendota Heights; Scott Hellzen of Lakeville, and Anne Felix of Prior Lake, who plays Vinny, a male poker player with a high-pitched voice. Set in the sloppy New York apartment of Oscar Madison, the comedy asks the same question as the movie and television show upon which the original Neil Simon play is based: Can two divorced men share an apartment without driving each other crazy? Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 30 and at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 31. Tickets available at the door are $14 for adults and $10 for seniors and children ages 12 and under. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

theater and arts briefs ‘True Love’ The Chameleon Theatre Circle will present “True Love” at 7:30 p.m. April 13-14, 20-21, 23, 2728 and at 2 p.m. April 29 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. The performance on Friday, April 20, will be audio described for the visually impaired and will be followed by a post-show discussion with the actors, director

and members of the production team. The performance on Saturday, April 28, will feature American Sign Language interpretation. General admission tickets are $20 ($17 for seniors, students, audio description and ASL patrons). Purchase in person at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center box office, via Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or www.ticketmaster. com.

‘Bell Fantasia’ Three local handbell ensembles will present “Bell Fantasia” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 27, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Bells of the Lakes, a group of auditioned ringers from the Twin Cities, will be joined by the St. Olaf Handbell Choir and one of the few auditioned community youth handbell ensembles in the

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nation, Northern Lights Ringers from the Twin Cities. The performance will feature some of the music from the Disney film “Fantasia.” Tickets range from $15 to $25 and can be purchased at the box office, at Ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 982-2787.

theater and arts calendar Call for Artists The 18th annual Eagan Art Festival is now accepting artist applications for World Art Celebration to be held 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 23, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 24. Applications can be completed online or on paper and must be postmarked by April 2. Find it all at www.eaganartfestival.org or email artfest@weston.borman.com with questions.

and Women’s Chorales will “Sing into Spring” with their concerts at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 20, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rosemount, and Saturday, April 21, at Grace Lutheran Church in Apple Valley. Tickets are available at the door or from any chorale member for $5. Lorie Line’s “Live In The Sunshine” performance, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 8, at Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave. Tickets are $39 and are available at the arts center or by calling (952) 985-4640.

Comedy Bob Phillips with special guest Kate Brindle at 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 30, and Saturday, March 31, at MinneHAHA Comedy Club, 1583 E. First Ave., Shakopee (lower level of Dangerfield’s), (612) 860-9388, www.minnehahacomedyclub.com. Tickets: $13. Lisa Lampanelli, “The Lovable Comedy Queen of Mean,” 8 p.m. Friday, March 30, at Mystic Showroom, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Prior Lake. Tickets: $59, (952) 4459000, mysticlake.com.

Exhibits The Burnsville Visual Arts Society will hold its 30th annual member art show, Art Fete, March 8 through April 14 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. The exhibit is free and open to the public during gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. An exhibit of oil paintings by artist Holly Stone is on display through April 17 at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave. Information: (952) 985-4640.

Concerts Glen Campbell’s “Goodbye Tour” at 8 p.m. Friday, April 13, Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, Prior Lake. Tickets go on sale at noon March 3. Prices are $32 and $39. Information: (952) 445-9000 or mysticlake.com. The Minnesota Valley Men’s

Theater The Prior Lake Players will present “Fiddler on the Roof” March 30-31 at 7 p.m. at Twin Oaks Middle School, 15860 Fish Point Road S.E., Prior Lake. Ticket prices are $14 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and $8 for children age 12 and un-

To submit items for the Arts Calendar, email: reporter. thisweek@ecm-inc.com.

der. Information: www.plplayers.org. The Play’s the Thing Productions will present “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave., on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays March 23-April 1. Tickets are $12 adults, $10 seniors/students, and can be purchased online (http://www.ci.lakeville.mn.us) or at the door. Workshops/classes 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 all ages. 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. Special needs theater program (autism-DCD), ages 5 and older, Burnsville, (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. Fee is $3 and includes all supplies. Bring any old jewelry you would like to re-make. 3981 Lexington Ave. S., (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) 4637833. Beginner country line dance classes on Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Lakeville VFW, 8790 Upper 208th St. $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.

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Sports

March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

Panthers fall two points short of state title

Boys basketball team finishes with 30-2 record by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

That second-half magic Lakeville North relied during the Class 4A state tournament didn’t happen in the 49-47 state-final loss to Osseo on Saturday night at the Target Center in Minneapolis. After falling behind in both the quarterfinal against Moorhead on March 21 and the semifinal versus Eden Prairie March 22, no one was too concerned when the Panthers were down 23-16 at halftime against Osseo. But the Panthers were stuck with arctic-cold shooting figures, shooting 28.6 percent from the floor and 23.8 percent from be-

yond the arc. “We battled and scrapped and did a lot of good things, but we just didn’t make enough shots,” head coach John Oxton said. For a team that has relied on its depth, size and defense, things have had a way of working themselves out by the second half for Lakeville North. “We were fine at halftime,” Oxton said. “Rebounding-wise we did a really poor job and we thought we would make more shots (in the first half). We battled so much more (in the second half) on the boards and that’s what got us back into it. Our pressure got us back into it.” In the last 18 minutes, Lakeville North had its chances. Two minutes into the second half, Lakeville North cut down Osseo’s lead to one point thanks to a spark

from Trey Heid and Tyler Flack, who led the Panthers with 12 points and seven rebounds. North’s Ryan Saarela, who had eight points, tied it up at 30 with a pair of free throws and the teams exchanged leads twice midway through the second. Fouls started to pile up for the Panthers with Flack watching courtside in the final minutes with five fouls, so the Panthers looked elsewhere. Grant Erickson connected from beyond the threepoint line to cut Osseo’s lead to one point with 2:11 left. He found himself at the charity stripe with one minute remaining and tied it up at 47. Osseo ate up the rest of the clock until Bridge Tusler found Ian Theisen open for a jump shot that turned into the game winner at the buzzer.

Saarela, Flack and Erickson were named to the Class 4A Minnesota State Boys All-Tournament Team. The Panthers finished the season with a 30-2 record, a South Suburban Conference title, and a silver medal at state, by far the best season ever for the school. “That’s unreal,” Oxton said. “That’s not a good year, it’s an unbelievable year. It hurts the way it ended, but we had an unreal year.” Leading up to the state final, the Panthers were behind 27-13 at one point against Eden Prairie before going on a 45-14 run the rest of the game. Lakeville North was also behind by three points against Moorhead at halftime before pulling away in the final four minutes. “We weren’t really shooting our shots that we were normally shooting,” senior

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville North’s Ryan Saarela, No. 21, drives to the basket in the Class 4A state final on Saturday night at the Target Center. The Panthers finished second after a last-second jump shot from Osseo in the state final one minute after Grant Erickson tied the game from the free-throw line. The Panthers finished the season with a 30-2 record, best in school history.

Brett Rasmussen said. “Our defense concepts went out the window for a little bit, but we got our heads back in the game and our coach talked to us at halftime. “Rebound and defense have been key for us all year. If we’re not shooting our best we can still win with defense and rebounding.” The Panthers’ depth pulled them out on several occasions this season. “We knew we would be good,” Oxton said. “These kids have been successful the whole time. Did I think they would play for a state championship? I don’t know ... The biggest thing is they’re playing as a team. I do know that we’d win a True Team state tournament. If we had to play with all our 10 guys, we’d win that for sure.” Lakeville North players may have gotten a little inspiration from playing in

another state tournament a few months ago. Kyrel Newell, Zach Creighton, Joel Oxton, Heid, Erickson, Rasmussen and Devin Shockley were all part of the South Suburban Conference championship Panther football team that qualified for state last fall and finished 10-1 after losing to Cretin-Derham Hall by two points in the quarterfinal game. The class wanted another shot at a trophy. “We’ve been dreaming about this since we started playing together in grade school,” Rasmussen said. “Our 2012 class has always known we wanted to make some noise. Our basketball team just wanted to do the best we can.” Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville North’s Trey Heid goes up for a lay-up in the Class 4A state finals on Saturday at the Target Center in Minneapolis.

A rewarding run for father and son Lakeville North’s Oxtons reach the finals at state basketball tourney by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

It was difficult enough for Lakeville North senior Joel Oxton to watch Osseo’s Ian Theisen take the jump shot that ended the high school boys basketball season. Equally difficult was the realization that it was the last time he would suit up in a varsity game with his childhood friends, or for his father John, the Panthers’ head coach. Theisen’s 15-foot jump shot at the buzzer gave Osseo a 49-47 victory in the state Class 4A championship game March 24 at the Target Center and sent the Panthers home with the runner-up trophy. The following evening, Joel Oxton reflected on what it all meant, and what he would remember from North’s 30-2 season. “What I’ll remember is how much fun it was to play with all my friends,” he said. “We had nine seniors on the team, and all of us played on the eighth-grade A (traveling) team. I’ve been playing with them since way back, and it was fun to have such a special year as seniors.” The Panthers were the first Lakeville boys basketball team to have a 30-win season, win a conference

title or reach a state championship game. The title appeared to be within reach when North, which trailed by as many as 12 points in the first half, tied the game 47-47 with one minute left. Osseo held the ball for 30 seconds, called timeout, then ran off almost all of the remaining 30 seconds before Theisen’s 15foot jumper went through. Joel Oxton said his father accentuated the positive as the distraught North players gathered in their Target Center locker room following the championship game. “He said, ‘Just keep your head up,’ ” said Joel Oxton, who played 14 minutes and scored three points in the Class 4A final. “No. 2 in the state is nothing to be ashamed of.” Since the Lakeville high school split in 2005, Lakeville North has had two teams play in the state boys basketball tournament, and each had two Oxtons on them. John Oxton coached both of them (as well as Lakeville High School teams that reached state in 1995 and 2004). Joel’s older brother Darren played for North at state in 2006. By now people in Lakeville don’t bat an eye when they see John Oxton coach-

Photo by Rick Orndorf

John Oxton coached the first Lakeville team to play in a Lakeville North’s Joel Oxton pressures Osseo’s Bridge Tusler during the state Class 4A boys basketball state boys basketball tournament championship game. championship game Saturday night. ing one of his son’s teams. Joel Oxton said his father has been his coach since he started playing basketball. “I’ve been coaching a long time on different teams,” said John Oxton, who took a sabbatical from the North job several years ago to watch his daughter, Megan, play basketball for Lakeville South. “If anything, I’m tougher on my own kids than other kids. It’s a non-issue. And it’s been a great time coaching them.” Joel Oxton laughed when his father’s statement about being tougher on his own children was relayed to him.

“Yeah, I’d say so,” he said. “He could be a little bit hard on you, but that’s a good thing. I think I’m a smart player, and I got that from him.” Although the Oxton family lives in the Lakeville South attendance area, Joel transferred to Century Middle School – which feeds into Lakeville North High School – before eighth grade so he might one day have a chance to play basketball for his father. Joel Oxton said he and his father discussed basketball “very rarely” away from the gym.

“We talked about it all the time in the gym, but we didn’t bring it home, and I think that’s pretty cool,” he said. He averaged 6.6 points a game during basketball season but will play football in college. The wide receiver caught 39 passes for 640 yards and four touchdowns in Lakeville North’s first 10 games as the Panthers won South Suburban Conference and section championships. He was named All-South Suburban Conference and honorable mention All-State and will continue his foot-

ball career at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. First, though, he will try to become the rare high school athlete who competes in state tournaments in three different sports. He’s a captain for the Lakeville North boys golf team, which returns five of the top six players from a team that finished sixth in last year’s state Class 3A tournament. Mike Shaughnessy is at mike.shaughnessy@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Notebook: All-star weekend for hoops, hockey Thirteen local players in Great 8 festival by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

Eastview standout Joey King and Lakeville North seniors Tyler Flack and Ryan Saarela will be among 40 players participating in the Minnesota High School

Basketball Series this weekend in St. Cloud and St. Paul. The event, in its 30th year, is a four-team, twoday tournament featuring the state’s top high school seniors. King and Saarela will play for the Maroon team, while Flack will play for the Green squad. Action begins Friday

at Halenbeck Hall on the St. Cloud State University campus, with the Blue and Gold teams playing at 7 p.m., and the Maroon and Green teams playing at 8:45 p.m. The all-star series moves to Macalester College on Saturday, with the losers of Friday’s games playing at 2:15 p.m. and the winners tipping off at 4

p.m. King, a 6-foot-9 forward who has signed with Drake University, averaged 23.9 points this season and helped the Lightning finish 28-2. Eastview tied for the South Suburban Conference championship and won the Class 4A, Section 3 title. Flack and Saarela led Lakeville North to a 30-2

record and second place in the Class 4A tournament, the highest finish ever for a Lakeville boys team at state. Flack, a 6-7 forward, missed the Panthers’ first 10 games of the 2011-12 season because of a broken wrist but averaged 13.4 points a game after his return. He had 12 points, seven rebounds and three blocks in North’s 49-

47 loss to Osseo in the Class 4A championship game March 24 at the Target Center. Flack has signed with the University of South Dakota, becoming the first Lakeville player to join a Division I men’s college program. See Hoops & Hockey, 17A

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

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Harrington takes over for Tigers softball Ashley Betzold back throwing strikes for Farmington by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

Paul Harrington, Farmington’s new varsity coach, knows a thing or two about softball. He spent the last 11 years coaching Totino Grace, where his teams won five Northwest Suburban Conference titles and made five appearances at the state tournament. He has 30 years of experience playing men’s fastpitch and he’s been an umpire for 25 years. He takes over the Tigers team that finished fourth in the Missota in 2011 with a record hovering around .500. The Tigers got by with solid pitching and defense, and the good news is their pitcher is back. Ashley Betzold, who had 11 wins last season, is winding up for another season of throwing heat. She also led the team with a .379 batting average. She’s been pitching varsi-

ty for the Tigers since eighth grade. “Hopefully she can step up and be one of the top pitchers in conference play and section playoffs,” Harrington said. “She has looked good on the mound so far in our scrimmages. However, she has looked even better with the bat, which is a plus, too.” Not only will Betzold have Harrington coaching her this year, but one of her closest mentors is back to help. Her sister Mallory Betzold, a 2007 Farmington graduate, will be Harrington’s assistant this season after completing four years of pitching at St. Mary’s University in Winona. Good pitching can take a team far in varsity softball, hence the loud buzz about the Tigers’ potential this season. “I believe we can be a definite contender to win our section playoff and conference,” Harrington said. “I believe we will be at or near the top in both.” Other returning players

such as Taylor Yousse and Aleah Williamson, both of whom were all-conference honorable mention in 2011, and senior captains Allie Rice, Taylor Haakana and Erin Wurst bring talent and experience to the potent lineup. “It’s looking like we have kids that can play multiple positions,” Harrington said. “We have a good mixture of speed and power at the plate, so it’s looking like we will have a balanced attack. We have some speedsters, so hopefully we can steal some more bases this year.” The one question is, who will Ashley Betzold throw to? “We do not have a lot of (catching) experience at the varsity level,” Harrington said. “We have kids that can catch, but will need someone to step up.” The season opener is Thursday at home against Shakopee.

Baseball

Last season the Tiger baseball team was 4-17 overall and finished seventh in the Missota. The Tigers

were the conference’s lowest-scoring team, averaging 4.5 runs per game. The Tigers did have their moments of excitement, including a 4-2 victory over Chanhassen, which went on to play in the Section 2AAA final. “Last year was a tough one based on wins and loses,” head coach Mike Winters said. “With the experience coming back, we need to improve on last year’s performance.” While Farmington lost eight seniors to graduation, the good news is several of its stars from 2011 were underclassmen. Jake Baskerville has returned after leading the team in hitting last season. He was named AllMissota Conference along with Nathan Graham. The team’s top pitcher, Jonathon Ellis, in back on the mound, but he can’t throw every inning. “We need pitchers who want the ball and will throw strikes,” Winters said. “We also need team players willing to accept and excel at the roles they’re given.” Last season’s top new-

comer, Spencer Merle, looks to take on a bigger role. First-year varsity player Kevin Olund is a strong athlete who has played hockey and football. Ryan Schoening, Drew Hegseth, John Stibal, Nick Newman, Ty Vincent and Andy Morris are returning veterans. The team will rely on experience and depth to reverse its record in 2012. The Tigers’ season opener is against Hastings at 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Metrodome in Minneapolis.

Winter All-Missota Conference list

Chloe Batta (honorable mention), Haley Doll (honorable mention). Boys swimming: Christopher Kirchmann (all-conference), Evan Carufel (allconference), Zach Holton (all-conference), Aaron Lane (all-conference), Conner Kealy (honorable mention), Aaron Cochnauer (honorable mention). Wrestling: Taylor Venz, (all-conference), Jacob Gabbard (all-conference), Joe Hoeve (all-conference), John Walz (honorable mention), Bret Hoffman (honorable mention). Dance Team: Kelsey Erickson (all-conference), Courtney Wahl (all-conference), Kayli Rudeen (honorable mention), Julie Tang (honorable mention). Gymnastics: Kiana Lord (all-conference), Nadia Lorencz (all-conference), Kylie Wharton (honorable mention).

Boys basketball: Nick Varner (all-conference), Darren Beenken (honorable mention). Boys Hockey: Victor Simones (all conference), Blake Weinand (honorable mention), Kevin Olund (honorable mention). Girls basketball: Taylor Meyer (all-conference), Isis Andy Rogers can be reached Alexander (honorable men- at andy.rogers@ecm-inc.com tion). or facebook.com/sunthisweek. Girls hockey: Jessica Erchul (all-conference), Betsy Anderson (all-conference),

Two new head softball coaches lead the way in Lakeville Powers comes to South, Hall switches from North St. Paul to Lakeville North by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

Colleen Powers appears to have found a home coaching varsity softball. The newly installed Lakeville South head coach was a three-sport star with Benilde-St. Margaret’s in the early 2000s, and played for the University of Minnesota softball team where she was errorless as an outfielder while gathering numerous awards. After graduating in 2008 she coached with West Texas A&M University and by 2010 she worked her way up to coaching at the Division I level at Central Michigan University, where she worked with former Team USA assistant coach Margo Jonker and earned a master’s degree in sports administration. Powers spent her summers working as club coach, where she was drawn to coaching younger studentathletes. “I find I’m able to have an impression on the kids,” Powers said. “I love to teach the game. The collegiate level gets so bogged down with

paperwork and recruiting. I felt like I didn’t have any time to focus on the task at hand like winning games and teaching the girls.” She was a late hire in the process, so it’s been a whirlwind for Powers the past three weeks, but she praised support she’s received from the administration and coaching staff. She describes her coaching philosophy as one centered on growth and fundamentals. “My main goal is to graduate from my program strong and confident young women,” Powers said. “I’m very fundamentally based. I really love the adrenaline rush of calling an offense and positioning a defense. At the end of the day, how I judge a team is if they leave it all on the field – if they’re the dirtiest team when the game is over.” Last season the Cougars went 11-8, but suffered an early exit in the playoffs, losing to Eastview by 10 runs in the first round. Losing high-caliber players such as Kendall Palfi, Taylor Donnelly and Molly Olson to graduation will hurt, but every team goes through turnover. “We have a strong core of starters back,” Powers said. “Offensively our lineup is going to be strong from top to bottom. What they lack in experience, they

Story/from 16A Hoops & wards Cory Chapman and Hunter Anderson will play Hockey for the Section 2A-2AA Saarela, a 6-5 forward, team. Maxson had seven averaged 12.1 points for goals and eight assists for the Panthers this season. 15 points for a Blaze squad In three state tournament that was runner-up in Secgames, he averaged 10.7 tion 2AA. Chapman, one points and 9.3 rebounds. of the top forwards in the Suburban ConferGreat 8 hockey South ence, had 57 points on 26 Thirteen boys from goals and 31 assists. AnderApple Valley, Burnsville, son had 18 goals and 30 asEagan, Lakeville North and sists for 48 points. Lakeville South will com- Twin brothers Derick pete in the Ted Brill Great 8 and Nick Kuchera will repHockey Festival beginning resent Eagan on the SecFriday at Wakota Arena in tion 3A-3AA team. Derick South St. Paul. Kuchera, a defenseman, had Defenseman Charlie 22 points (seven goals, 15 Heller and forwards Alex assists) for a Wildcats team Harvey and Mike Chui- that won the South Suburnard of state Class AA ban Conference championthird-place finisher Lakev- ship and finished sixth in ille South will play for the the state tournament. Nick Section 1A-1AA squad in Kuchera played forward the eight-team tournament, and scored 55 points on 17 which showcases many of goals and 39 assists. the state’s top senior play- Apple Valley forward ers. Tate Erickson (9-17–26) Heller had 22 points and defensemen Anthony (two goals, 20 assists) this Leong (6-9–15) and Derek season. Harvey, playing on Smith (5-19–24) also will the Cougars’ top line with play for the Section 3AMr. Hockey award winner 3AA team. Apple Valley Justin Kloos, had 79 points High School assistant coach on 36 goals and 43 assists. Chris Sikich will be one of Chuinard had 14 goals and the coaches of the 3A-3AA 15 assists for 29 points. team. Also playing for the The Section 1A-1AA Section 1A-1AA team are team will play a quarterfiLakeville North senior for- nal game against Section wards Blake Winiecki (25 5A-5AA at 6 p.m. Friday. goals, 32 assists, 57 points) The Section 2A-2AA and and Evan Peterson (28-23– 3A-3AA teams will meet at 51). 9 p.m. Consolation semifi Burnsville defenseman nal games are 12:30 and 3 Jake Maxson and for- p.m. Saturday, with semi-

bring with them knowledge and skill.” Two of the top players from 2011 have returned in Lindsey Uphoff and Lindsey Kamleiter along with returning starters Sammi Harris, Baylee and Bree Meier and pitchers Kylie Stober and Madeline Bianchi. The season opener is scheduled for April 9 with a visit from Prior Lake.

Lakeville North

New Panther head coach Sean Hall, who has coached 190 teams in soccer, basketball and softball in the past 25 years, is one of the big names in the softball coaching world. He was the head softball coach for a North St. Paul team for the past nine years, winning a state title in 2007 and coming home with the silver in 2010, 2009 and 2004. Before North St. Paul, Hall won a state title with St. Bernard’s in 2002. He’s also the owner of S&C Sports Services and coach of the Minnesota Sting, one of the premier fastpitch programs in the Midwest. So why Lakeville North? “I had the chance to coach a few of the girls in summer programs and got to know them through clinic,” Hall said. “I had a lot of contacts and thought they were really good people. A final games at 1 and 3:30 p.m. Games Sunday are at noon (seventh place), 12:30 p.m. (third place), 2:30 (fifth place) and 3 (championship). Top players from the Great 8 tournament will be named to a team that will compete in the Minnesota High School National Invitational Tournament the weekend of April 19-22 in Plymouth.

Season openers

Unusually warm weather in March figures to give the Minnesota high school baseball season a chance to start on time. One of the earliest regular-season games scheduled is Park of Cottage Grove at Rosemount at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday. Two South Suburban Conference games are scheduled the next day, with Eastview playing at Apple Valley and Eagan traveling to Lakeville South. Track and field teams also are starting to move outside. Burnsville will go to a meet at Farmington High School at 4 p.m. Tuesday. Burnsville and Prior Lake also are scheduled to compete in a co-ed meet at Apple Valley at 3:45 p.m. April 5. Mike Shaughnessy is at mike.shaughnessy@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

little bit of it was it’s just time for a change for me. This is a good chance to build a program.” He was attracted to the high level of competition in the south metro. “You’re challenged every week out,” Hall said. “That really prepares you for the state tournament, if you’re lucky enough to get there. In North St. Paul, you played in a conference that really didn’t prepare you for state. It didn’t really matter what you did the first part of the year. It only mattered what happens in he last three games.” He’s taking over for longtime head coach Randy Schmitz, who he has admired for years. “I have a lot of respect for what he did,” Hall said. Coaches will often say the players make them

look good, and Hall said he’s blessed with some of the best young talent in the state. He said he wouldn’t be surprised if sophomore pitcher Michaela Zins leads the metro in strikeouts by June. An ace can take a team far in the varsity softball world, even after moving the mound to 43 feet from the plate last year. “The dominant pitchers still get strikeouts,” Hall said. Zins has a veteran catcher in classmate Erika Rozell. Hall is also excited about the team’s speed, particularly from outfielders Sarah Nelson and Jessica Meidl as well as Emily Shinn at shortstop. “Our pitching and defense will be our strength this year,” Hall said. “We’re

going to need to work out our hitting, though. It’s got to get better.” The Panthers won’t be the oldest team in the league this season with just two seniors on the roster, Allison Moore and Angela Turner, but with the right attitude, Hall feels they could improve on last season’s 8-12 record and first-round exit in the playoffs. “I’m impressed with how the younger players, all of the players, have gotten along really well,” Hall said. “They all respect each other and have a great team attitude.” Lakeville North’s first game is April 11 at Burnsville. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

18A

March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

2012 State Tournament

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Nadia Lorencz of Farmington performs her bar routine at Lakeville South head coach Rick Ringeisen talks with his swimmers at the Class AA state swim meet in early March. the Class AA state meet. She took home a silver for her The Cougars finished in 14th place with Mitch Herrera taking fourth in the 500-yard freestyle and Evan Ostendorf fifth efforts on the vault. in diving. Photo by Rick Orndorf

Mr. Hockey Justin Kloos, No. 15, of Lakeville South skates at the Class AA state tournament on March 7 at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul where the team finished third in the state. The Cougars won the Section 1AA title and stunned top-ranked Duluth East in the state quarterfinal game, but lost to eventual state champion Benilde-St. Margaret’s in the semifinal.

Photo by Andy Rogers

Lakeville North’s Ben Saxton won the state Nordic title.

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Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

19A

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Farmington’s Charlie Kirchmann starts the 50yard freestyle event at the Class AA state meet on March 3. He finished in 15th place and the Tigers were 34th overall.

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville North’s Taylor Stewart, No. 32, splits her Hopkins defenders in the Class 4A state tournament on March 14. After winning the Section 1-4A title, the girls lost in the opening round to eventual state champion Hopkins.

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville North’s Alexis Joyce, No. 20, and Christi Vetter, No. 21, celebrate after a goal. The Panthers won the Section 1AA title and finished fourth at the Class AA state tournament.

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Any Other Outdoor Needs. Call 952-278-0126 aggressiveoutdoorservices.net

RICHTER Landscaping, LLC Retaining Walls, Pavers,

Lawn & Garden

16 Yrs Exp. Wkly Mowing Serving South Metro SORENSEN LAWN CARE Free Ests 651-454-6100

www.greenvalleymn.com

Landscaping

2360

Painting

“George's Painting” *Int/Clean Quality Work!* Lowest $$ 651-829-1776 3 Interior Rooms/$250 Wallpaper Removal. Drywall Repair. Cabinet Enameling and Staining. 30 yrs exp. Steve 763-545-0506

Edging, Mulch, Rock, Plantings

Call 952-250-5865

Dependable

Great Service

JOE'S LAWN SERVICE

Commercial & Residential �Dethatch �Clean-up �Mow �Aerate �Fertilize Reas Rates/Free Ests/Insured

Landscapes by Lora

Call us for all your landscaping needs! 612-644-3580 landscapesbylora.com

952-894-9221

Green & Black LLC

Full Lawn Maintenance Svc

•Irrigation Install• Repairs • Patios • Walls • Driveways Licensed Insured Nate 651-356-9193

Modern Landscapes •Retaining Walls •Paver Patios •Design & Installation 'Committed to Excellence' 612-205-9953 modernlandscapes.biz

Wall Paper Removal INTERIOR EXTERIOR

•Ben's Painting•

accept Visa/MC/Discvr

Water Features & Pavers.

REILAND'S GROUND MAINTENANCE, LLC Comm. & Res. Lawn Mowing & Trimming, Spring/Fall Clean-Up, Dethatching, Aerating & Shrub Pruning. Insured. “Offering over 20 years of professional experience in the field.” Contact Len at 952-237-9132 or len@reilandsgroundmain tenance.com

30+ Yrs Exp /Owner Operator

763-420-3036 952-240-5533 Offering Complete Landscape Services

alandsapecreations.com Lawn & Garden

TOM'S LAWN SERVICE

$40 Lawn Aerations

Spring Clean-ups & Aeration New Customers Free Fert.

Multi Neighbor Discount

Mark 651-768-9345

2350

H20 Damage – Plaster Repair

Paint/Stain/Ceilings We

RETAINING WALLS

Call 952-882-9029

2350

Landscaping

Ideal Tree Service & Landscaping

Retaining Walls • Tree Planting 20% Spring • Plants & Shrubs • Fencing • Sod Discount • Bobcat Work • Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Rock & Boulder Retaining Walls

952-432-2605 DAVE'S PAINTING and WALLPAPERING Int/Ext • Free Est • 23 Yrs Will meet or beat any price! Lic/Ins Visa/MC BBB 952-469-6800

FREE ESTIMATES • INSD

Full Interior & Exterior www.ktpainting.com

KEITH THOMAS PAINTING

651-452-4802 BBB

Int./Ext. Painting & Remodeling, 25 yrs, Ins., Ref's. Mike 763-434-0001 Jerry's Painting Interior Exterior & Texture 952-607-1009/612-636-9501 Painting Int/Ext., Sheetrock/Repair, Staining Free est. Ins./since 1992. Jerry's Remodeling LLC 952-447-3587

2360

Lawn & Garden

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1978

Mowing • Fertilizing Spring & Fall Cleanup Landscaping Snowplowing

READERS’ CHOICE

Awards

Voted #1 Lawn Care Company by Sun Readers

www.MinnLocal.com

www.fertilawnmn.com Bloomington, MN • 952-884-7331 FREE Estimates

952.278.0126

Residential & Commercial

CALL NOW FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPING NEEDS!

Design, Retaining Walls, Boulders, Rock, Mulch & More.

CONCRETE: Driveway, Walks, Steps, Patios • Professional Applications • Kill those nasty weeds • Guard against disease and insects

• Control Crabgrass • Lawn Aerating • Hydroseeding • Sprinkler Installation • Mole Control Serving the area for over 24 years!

952-492-3005

2510

Window Cleaning

Roofs, Siding, & Gutters

3100

A Family Operated Bus.

Re-roofs Tear-offs BBB Free Est. MC/Visa No Subcontractors Used. Lic/Ins. 952-891-8586 A Family Operated Business

Bormann Brothers Roofing

New, Tear-Offs, Free Est. No Subcontractors Used Lic 20170064/Ins. 952-891-8586 BBB Re-Roofing & Roof Repairs 30 Yrs Exp Insured - Lic#20126880 John Haley #1 Roofer, LLC. Call 952-925-6156

Roofing * Siding Gutters * Soffit/Fascia

TOPSIDE, INC. 612-869-1177 Licensed * Bonded * Insured 32 Yrs Exp. A+ Rating BBB

Window Cleaning 651-646-4000 3000

Merchandise

952-500-1088

Interior/Ext Painting Texturing Drywall Deck Staining Epoxy Resin Garage Floors Wood Floors • Sanding • Refinishing Fully Insured/Free Ests. Book now for the 2012 Season!

2470

Plumbing

A RENEW PLUMBING •Drain Cleaning •Repairs •Remodeling •Lic# 060881-PM Bond/Ins 952-884-9495

2420

Painting

Tear-offs & New Construction Siding & Gutters Over 17 yrs exp. Free est. Rodney Oldenburg

'91 World Champion MN Twins – Bobbleheads, full set (26). New – in original pkg., $599. Call 952-927-0788

3130

Antiques

Estate Sales

Pine Log Handmade Twin Loft Bed $500or OBO 763559-9344.

3900

Simmons Loveseat

3260

COURT RESOURCESSAVE! Bkrptcy Debt Relief $860* Divorce/Custody $570* Civil/Criminal DUI start $165* *court fees additional 763-792-4940, 218-828-4483 Elec. Wheel Chr, Walkers, Bedside commodes, Hospital bed, 6” toilet seat w/side loc. Price to Sell. 612-26-2977

3270

2950 Pilot Knob Rd. 3/31 (10-6); 4/1 (2-5) and 4/14 (10-5)

Antiqs, tools, furn., HH items

Thurs & Fri 9-8; Sat 9-6; Sunday 10-3

5543 Bristol Lane

MINNETONKA

Buying Old Trains & Toys

Sat., March 31 (8:30-4:30)

952-933-0200

Bachman's 6010 Lyndale Ave S., Mpls FREE ADMISSION

651-247-9935

www. agatheringoffriends.net

#'s Saturday at 8am

3280

Eclectic collection of furn., high quality jewelry, Gold & Silver all in modern home.

Furnishings

Good Samaritan Garden $7,000 for all. 320-243-3165

2510

Roofs, Siding, & Gutters

2600

3700

Come Boat the Mississippi www.watergatemarina.net Slips available for all sizes Plenty of water!

Immaculate Clean-up! Tree Removal/Trimming Lot Clearing & Stump Removal Free Estimates 952-440-6104

General Contractors Storm Damage Restoration Roofing ■ siding ■ windows Established 1984

(763) 550-0043 (952) 476-7601 (651) 221-2600

2620

5100

absolutetreeservicemn.com

Painting

Great Service Affordable Prices Boutiques/Craft Shows & Gifts

612-825-7316/952-934-4128 www.afreshlookinc.com Boutiques/Craft Shows & Gifts

3050

THINK SPRING Arts&Crafts Show Penn Ave. & 494, Bloomington

Heart Promotions 651-438-3815

Wednesday, March 14 thru Sunday, April 15, 2012 CLOSED MONDAYS, TUESDAYS & EASTER SUNDAY

Our job is to make you look good!

763-225-6200

www.sparklewashcmn.com

Lakeville, Licensed. 35 yrs exp. FT openings infant to 5 yrs. 952-953-6162

5000

Rentals Townhouse For Rent

Eagan, 2BR, 1BA, 900.00 2 bedroom with washer and dryer shared off street parking big yard own entrance 651-500-3015 FGTN: 2 BR, 1-1/2 BA, 2-lvl TH, appls, gar. Avail 5/1 $850mo+util. Call 651-463-4921

Pets

Senior Rentals

5100

Senior Rentals

Please call Cindy at 952-461-1644 or 612-865-6625 to arrange for a personal tour of the model.

SPRING & SUMMER SCHEDULE

No strollers allowed. Handicap accessible.

FMGTN, licnd., Home child car FT opngs Inf+ 18yrs exp. Preschool program & more RVES Lynn 651-463-2758

Market Village for 55+ Opened March 1, 2012

March 30, 31 & April 1 Fri 10-9 • Sat 10-6 • Sun 11-4

Hours: Wed thru Fri 10am-8pm • Sat 10am-6pm • Sun12pm-5pm

Commercial and residential pressure washing Decks strip & seal, roof washing, house washing, concrete cleaning and staining. Full exterior washing.

Farmington M,W,F Daycare 2yrs+. Drop in avl. Kathy (651) 463-3765

Boutiques/Craft Shows & Gifts

Powerwashing

BOB’s

Child Care

You are invited to tour our Model Apartment Home

Southtown Mall

Lic. #BC626700

Credit Cards Accepted

3050

Senior Discounts

3050

Family Care

Tree Service

Absolute Tree Service Exper. prof., lic., Ins. Reas. rates. 651-338-5881 NORTHWAY TREE SERV. Trim/Removal, brush chipping, stump grinding. Ins'd. Terry 952-461-3618

4000

Last Hope, Inc. (651) 463-8747

3500 Vicksburg Lane Suite 400-351 P l y m o u t h , M N 5 5 4 4 7 Lic # 6793

Tree Service

Puppies Lab / Retriever / mix ready 4/6. 3 black female, 3 black male, 3 white male. $150. 651-463-2185.

Charlie is 6 years old and was an elderly lady’s dog. He would love a quiet home with just one human and he shines. He is overweight and only can eat dog food! He is neutered and current with shots. If you cannot walk much, don’t worry, he loves playing ball and will bring it back to your chair!! See him and all our dogs on www.last-hope.org. Call Barb at 651-7794148 to meet Charlie!!

MN License # BC 639318 | Lakeville, MN 55044

2620

Peeka & Boo, 2 sweet & beautiful, bro & sis, orange tabby cats, together only to a special loving home. All tests/shots/spay/neut. $75 for both. Jerry 952-888-9524

3970

Pets

15 yrs exp.

Thomas Tree Service

Pets

CHARLIE IS QUIET & PLAYFUL!

Family Owned/Operated — 30 Years Experience 952-469-5221 | www.allsonsexteriors.com

AJ's Tree Service

2420

Boat Services, Storage & Slips

Don't Be Left Aground

3970

5200

Call JP at 651-695-3783

612-275-2574

A Good Job!!

Leisure

3730

Tree Service

Trimming & Removal Free Estimates & Insured

Musical Instuments

Piano player: mahog. Upright. $849 612-377-4715

www.willmatthill.com

Qn. size, light wood, bkcase hdbrd, triple drssr, 2 nite stands. Mint cond! $400. 952-831-2998

Roofs, Siding, & Gutters

STEVE'S TRAIN CITY

Sun., April 1 (8:30-3:30)

Agriculture/ Animals/Pets

4100

Misc. Wanted

Vintage / Garden Finds Primitives/Cottage Wares

March 29, 30, 31 & April 1

We Take Care of Insurance Claims Offering the Best Extended Manufacturers Warranty Stump Removal

Misc. For Sale

� � WANTED � � Hifi/stereo equip., HAM, & misc. old electronics. Andy 651-329-0515

Antiques Market

Sporting Goods & Misc

Personal Gun Collection for Sale. High quality! Call for pricing. 612-408-0222

EAGAN

A Gathering of Friends

3810

Couch, loveseat, chair Tan, microfiber, Solid Exc cond $499. 952-843-8138

Lic #20156835 • Insured

Interior/Exterior Painting by the Pros Bonded & Insured Free Est. • Senior Discounts

2490

Collectibles & Art

612-210-5267 952-443-9957

A Fresh Look, Inc.

Check us out online at

3010

Ladies: 3X Wm's Clothes good condition $50 651-686-7167

3110

Furnishings

Hunter green, fabric. Exc. cond! $250/BO 952-423-1303

Clothing & Jewelry

Cemetery 3160 Why Wait 3090 Lots Roofing LLC For Sale: 4 Lots Glenhaven BR Set:

________________________

2490

Powerwashing

Grandview Park Cemetery, Hopkins, MN. 2 side by side plots, $950 ea. 602-861-8082

$0 For Estimate Timberline Tree & Landscape. Spring Discount - 25% Off Tree Trimming, Tree Removal, Stump Grinding 612-644-8035 Remove Large Trees & Stumps CHEAP

sunthisweek.com

2490

2660

2620

2nd Generation Company… 3rd Generation Customers Powerwashing

SAVE MONEY - Competent master plumber needs work. Lic#M3869 Jason 952-891-2490

952-451-7151 Ins/Bonded

612-599-6385 • www.idealtreemn.com

3160

Cemetery Lots

Glen Haven: 2 plots, 2 vaults w/companion headstone. Value $8,990. Asking $4,300/BO. 218-828-3608

Old World Craftsmanship/24 Yrs

St. Christoper Decorating Int Painting/faux/Rlph Lauren Expert Cabinet Refinishing Wallpaper Installation

DAN WIMMER • (952) 881-2122 Lawn & Garden

3090

Tree Service

TREE REMOVAL/TRIMMING Shrub Pruning Free Ests Lic'd / Ins'd / 20 Yrs Exp. 651-455-7704

Al & Rich's Low Cost Stump Removal, Portable Mach. Prof tree trimming & removal. 952-469-2634

Complete Landscaping Service / Free Estimates Quality Work and Low Rates

2360

2620

New Remodel & Repair 952-492-2440 lic. 59502PM

Plumbing, Heating & AC

Ceiling & Wall Textures

Int/Ext, Drywall Repair

J 4 Outdoor Services Lawn Care Residential/Commercial Lawn Care, Landscaping, Tree Trimming 612-998-9093

Plumbing

Painting & Drywall

Will meet or beat prices!

New Customer Special 1st Mowing is FREE!! Full Service Lawn Care • Weekly Mowing • Spring Dethatching Visit our website at www.gmlawnsnow.com Gary at 612-490-7712 GM Lawn & Snow Care

2360

Quality Residential

2470

Market Village 100 J Roberts Way Elko New Market, MN 55054

Furniture • Garden Ware • Florals • Home Accents Primitives • Antiques • One of A Kind Glassware • Treasures & So Much More • • Inventory Restocked Daily • • 9242 HUDSON BLVD NORTH • LAKE ELMO, MN

651.730.8006

www.HomeEssentialsBoutique.com

RT030812

20A

classifieds

Advertise in Sun•Thisweek Newspapers and reach 62,000 homes every Friday!

TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM COMPLETELY Note: Newsprint does not fax legibly, you must fax a photocopy of the completed order form below. Please use this order form when placing your Classified ads.

• Use the grid below to write your ad. • Please print completely and legibly to ensure the ad is published correctly.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

• Punctuate and space the ad copy properly. • Include area code with phone number. • 3 line minimum

Please fill out completely.

Incomplete forms may not run.

Amount enclosed: $________________________ Classification: ___________________________ Date of Publication: _________________ Credit Card Info: ■ VISA ■ MasterCard ■ Discover ■ American Express Card # ____________________________________ Exp. Date __________________CID #__________ Name: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________________________ Zip _____________________ Phone: ________________________________

• Deadline to submit ads is 12 p.m. Wednesday • Cost is $48 for the first 3 lines and $10 each additional line Mail order form to: Sun•Thisweek Classifieds, 15322 Galaxie Ave., Ste. 219 • Apple Valley, MN 55124 OR 10917 Valley View Road • Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Or fax order form to: 952-846-2010 or 952-941-5431

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

5500

7400

Rental Information

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women; and people securing custody of children under 18.

RENTS START AT 1BR $685 $250 OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT Rosewood Manor 14599 Cimarron Ave. Rosemount 651-423-2299

8200

Farms & Land

LAKE PEPIN FARM $49,900!

Vast views overlooking the lake; email for video tour!

Thousand Lakes Realty Inc.

866-346-7006 www.1000Lakes.com

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

6400

Apartments & Condos For Sale

9020

Business Opps & Info

Advertising Disclaimer Because we are unable to check all ads that are placed in our media, we encourage you to be safe and be careful before giving out any important information such as credit card numbers or social security numbers, when responding to any ad.

Apartments & Condos For Rent

If you're not afraid to speak in front of small groups and like the idea of unlimited income potential, please call Andy Besser @ 612.454.5821

AV–Palomino East Apt. Blowout special, 3 BR, 2BA , 1st floor corner unit. Avail immed. W/D in unit. Free cbl $99 dep Call David 952-686-0800

9050

Health Care

9100

Help Wanted/ Full Time

CSR/Account Rep Responsibilities: Providing Information for Potential Members. Update Current Members Account Information Assist in Setup & Troubleshooting of New Member Equipment General Sales & Marketing Support Efforts Qualifications: College degree is a strong plus. (High School Diploma / GED required) Excellent verbal and written communication skills required. Flexible Schedule (nights, weekends and holidays are a must). Ability to multi task 1+ year experience in a customer service environment is a strong plus. Knowledge of computers and Microsoft software required (Word/Excel) We offer a starting salary of $14 - $17 per hour. (PT/FT) Interested Candidates should forward resumes to : entrylevel00@gmail.com

Eagan

Set back in a secluded area of Eagan. Beaut. landscaping, 55+ co-op unit, 2BR, 2BA. Reduced! Easy access to trails & Eagan Comm Ctr. 651-994-6778

Join Our Team Crew Leads/Crew Members Needed

Lakeville, 2BR, 1BA, 650sq. ft. Heat, Parking Included $695 Immediate occupancy in top 4 Plex 2 Bdrm apt in quiet neighborhood close to downtown. Newly rennovated, quiet neighbors. No Pets. 952-564-9801.

Full-time Clinical Services Director (Must be an RN and have 2 yrs exp with Hospice, Mgt, and Medicare)

At Hospice Advantage, we believe our employees are our Greatest Asset! We offer: 401k program w/match - All employees eligible! Competitive Salary w/bonus program! Mileage reimbursed at $0.51 per mile! Full Benefits Package! Paid weekly!

LV, 2BR, 1BA, $675 Quiet 4-plex, Heat/water/gar included, No pets, Avail 4/15, 1 month free w/ 12 month lease, (612) 802 5775 Rosemount: 2 BD Off St. pkg. Includes heat & water. NO PETS. Available NOW. $600. 952-944-7983

7000

Real Estate

7400

Apartments & Condos For Sale

If interested, please visit our website at:

www.hospice advantage.net

RENTS START AT 1 BR $685 $250 OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT Rosewood Manor 14599 Cimarron Ave. Rosemount 651-423-2299

& click on the "Careers" tab at the top to search & apply for Lakeville, MN or Minneapolis, MN openings.

Prescription Landscape is looking for energetic and motivated persons to join our production teams. We have openings at both locations, Crystal and St. Paul. Job duties include operating mowing equipment, physical labor; up to and including bending, kneeling and lifting up to 45 lbs, and other duties as assigned. Seasonal and year-round positions available. Year-round positions include snow and ice management; plowing, shoveling, etc. Experience helpful but not required, on the job training available. Some positions require a valid and clean driver's license. Pre-employment drug/alcohol testing required. Compensation: $10.00-$18.00 pending experience. For more information visit our web site at: www.rxlandscape.com or email sueleatherman@ rxlandscape.com or phone Sue at 651-379-4713

9100

Help Wanted/ Full Time

Castle Rock Bank is currently accepting applications for a full-time bilingual (Spanish) teller position. Previous teller experience is required. Please contact either Eric or Dave Nicolai at 651-463-4014 DRIVER/WHSE NEEDED FT to deliver cabinetry and work in a warehouse environment. Good driving record req. Knowledge of the Twin Cities area helpful. Warehouse exp. Preferred. Health benefits, 401K & 2 weeks pd vacation. Immediate start. Apply in person at: DIVERSIFIED DIST., INC. 11921 Portland Ave. So., Ste A., Burnsville, MN 55337 (952)808-9646

Open House from 9am to 11am on Wednesday for Food

Manufacturing. All skill levels & warehouse/Forklift. Call for more info 952-924-9000

Now Hiring Foldcraft Co., a 100% employee-owned, foodservice furnishings manufacturer is seeking energetic, qualified candidates for the following positions at our Bloomington, MN location: 1st Shift ProductionSewing 1st Shift Production-general (cabinetry, warehouse, upholstery) Staff/Job Cost Accountant Account Manager To learn more about these opportunities, and how to apply, visit our website at www.plymold.com and click on our News and Events tab.

OTR TEAM DRIVERS EAGAN, MN

The TFE Toro Transport Express is seeking qualified professional OTR Team Drivers (Class A) to support the private Toro Fleet. An Excellent safety record is required. Benefit package includes competitive wages, comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage; company paid pension, matching 401k, 9 paid holidays, company paid vacation, fuel and operational bonus incentives and more. Home every weekend! Male/ Female teams welcomed. To apply, contact Jack at 800-476-3514. The TFE Toro Transport Express is an EOE

AFFORDABLE, INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY Senior (62+) bldg, 1 bdrm, 525 sq ft, clean apartments, elevators, indoor atrium w/gold fish pond, backyard with gazebo, library, laundry on-site, professional staff, great location near shopping, transit, and library, off street parking, heat/ electric/water/trash paid. Rents starting at only $493.

9000

Employment

9100

Help Wanted/ Full Time

CITY OF APPLE VALLEY Information Technology Intern Intern position available June 2012 - August 2012, Monday - Friday, 40 hours per week. Provide technical assistance with the I.T. Department for the support of PC users, hardware and software installation, and other IT related projects and tasks. Job posting, qualifications and application information available at;

www.cityofapplevalley.org

click on employment.

Sun•Thisweek Classifieds Work! Call

952 – 846– 2000 to place your ad. 9100

Help Wanted/ Full Time

952-469-5112 www.expressHRcenter.com

Production Support Specialist

Seeking dependable energetic person w/positive attitude to work with other team members in a clean, naturallight office environment. Successful candidate must be able to work w/various data sets within MS Word & Excel, perform mail merges and have data entry skills. Attention to detail is critical. Other duties include light paper assembly and the use of office printing equipment. FT position, M-F, 8:30 am-5pm. Solid benefit offerings. Must have AA/AS or equivalent work experience. Apply online at: www. medimedia.com/ careers.aspx

To apply call or E-mail: Hollie (507) 664-3038 mnhr@mclaneco.com • Fax: (507) 664-3042

IMMEDIATE NEED! * BURNSVILLE BRANCH *

GENERAL LABORERS

$11-$12 Hourly (DOQ) + X½ O.T. Benefits: Paid Training & benefits you would expect from the United States Industry Leader Required to Pass: Drug Screen, Background & Motor Vehicle Record Check

We are leaders! We are experts! We are stewards! We are partners! We are Customer Service Specialists! We are innovators! We are part of the Service Master Family! APPLY TODAY!

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN SUN-THUR 9:30pm-6:00am $12.10 - $14.65/hour MUST HAVE 1-2 YEARS EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Sales Reps * BURNSVILLE & MINNETONKA BRANCH * Looking for a CAREER, NOT just a pay check? All experience levels encouraged to apply! Competitive base + commission Benefits: Paid Training, benefits package and fuel reimbursement. Required to pass: Drug screen, background and motor vehicle record checks. Apply at: jobs.TruGreen.com Burnsville 952-895-3400 Minnetonka 952-933-7360 AA/EOE/M/F/V/D

FULL CASE GROCERY SELECTOR

Rosemount • Burnsville Mendota Heights Seasonal Outdoor Work April to July

Employee Discount Flexible Hours

Apply Online:

Linders.com School Bus Drivers First Student’s Burnsville location is seeking School Bus Drivers. What we offer: • Competitive hourly pay Starting at $14.00 • Full training leading to a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) • Chance to work independently • Family-friendly position Requirements: • Be at least 21 years of age • Have a valid driver’s license • Have a minimum of three years driving experience • Be able to pass a background investigation and a drug test To apply please contact Jared Reid or Dale Clementson Jared.Reid@firstgroup.com or Dale.Clementson@firstgroup.com 952-894-3460 Burnsville, Minnesota www.firststudentmn.com Equal Opportunity Employer

M-F 8am start $13.10/ hour

LOADING POSITION

M-F 11am start $13.10/hour Contact

McLane Minnesota Human Resources by phone: (507)664-3000

Social Services

Thomas Allen Inc.: Registered Nurse

South St.Paul, Bloomington, Burnsville: 5-6 hrs/wk Position/ hours can be split into two positions. Must be a Registered Nurse, valid driver's lic., own vehicle/insur., Clean record. Prefer 3 yrs exp. with cognitively impaired and/or disabled individuals, and/or seniors. Fax resume to Sandy Q. at: 651-450-7923 www.thomasalleninc.com AA/EOE Window Cleaners Wanted Will train, starting salary $10hr. Ladder exper. a plus. 952-431-5521 Window Cleaners Wanted: Will train, starting salary $10hr. Ladder exper a plus. 952-431-5521

9500

Automotive

9621

Dodge

'2000 Dodge Intrepid ES,

exc runner, new tires, uses no oil. $2850. 952-941-5183

Junkers & Repairable Wanted

Runners & Non Runners 612-810-7606 Licensed/Bonded/Insured www.cash4clunkers.com

$$$$ $200 - $10,000 $$$$ Junkers & Repairables More if Saleable. MN Licensed www.crosstownauto.net

612-861-3020 651-645-7715

$225+ for most Vehicles Free Towing 952-818-2585 CASH! For Your Junked Wrecks or Unwanted Vehicles. Free Tow-Aways

612-805-2692

Motorcycles Wanted! Cash for used & Damaged 651-285-1532

9200

9999

Help Wanted/ Part Time

Fantasy Gifts Part time sales clerks Evenings and weekends at our Lakeville, St. Louis Park and Coon Rapids locations. Applications at all locations or email resume to helpwanted@ fantasygifts.com

NAR - PT AM/PM/NOC

We are seeking nursing assistants to serve in our 65-bed skilled nursing facility. Duties include assisting residents with their daily grooming, dining needs, ambulating and transferring residents. Candidates must be on the Minnesota Registry.

Dietary Aide PT PM

We are seeking a dietary aide to serve in our 65-bed skilled nursing facility. Duties include basic food preparation, serving & cleaning. Please apply at: TRINITY CARE CENTER 3410 213th Street W. Farmington, MN 55024

Or send resumes to: mpomroy@sfhs.org EEO/AA

Newspaper Delivery Minneapolis Star Tribune Apple Valley, Eagan, Inver Grove. Immediate weekend openings. Call and leave a message. 651-968-6039 PT Dog Handler Required hours are 6am1pm &/or 1pm-8pm. Weekends & holidays a must. Looking for motivated, dependable individuals. Dog exp. pref. Required to manage & care for a large group of dogs. Excellence in customer svc necessary. Apply online at: www.dogdaygetaway.com

$$$$$$$$ Sell your items in Sun•Thisweek Classifieds

952-846-2000

9810

Junkers & Repairable Wanted

9820

Motorcycle, Moped, Motor Bike

Classified Misc./ Network Ads

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21A

Classified Misc./ Network Ads

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22A

March 30, 2012 sun THISWEEK

Business Briefs Uponor North America names new president Bill Gray has been named president of Uponor North America, effective Feb. 15. He is also a member of the Uponor Group executive committee. Gray has served as the vice president for UNA Sales since June 2011. In that capacity, he was responsible for the leadership of all Uponor North American sales efforts in the United States and Canada. Previously, he was general manager for Uponor Ltd. in Canada for three years where he oversaw all Canadian operations, including sales, marketing, demand management and technical and customer service. Gray is a seasoned veteran in the HVAC and industrial supply industries with more than 17 years of sales and marketing experience, with bachelor degrees

in arts and commerce. He is based in Apple Valley, Uponor North America’s headquarters. The company is in the process of finding a candidate to fulfill the vice president of Uponor North America Sales position.

Chamber hosts Human Resources Roundtable Hiring the right candidate will be the topic for the next Human Resources Roundtable hosted by the Dakota County Regional Chamber from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 25, at the chamber office, 1121 Town Centre Drive, Suite 102, Eagan. Industry professionals Kelly Brenna and Emily Ruhsam will lead the roundtable, which will include a continental breakfast. Cost is $149 for each business and includes up to two company representatives. Additional representatives may attend at a reduced fee.

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For more information or to enroll, contact Kelly Brenna, SPHR, at kbrenna@kainsurance.com.

Valley Natural Foods sets second Run for Hope 5K Burnsville-based Valley Natural Foods will host its second annual Run for Hope 5K, scheduled for Saturday, May 12. Last year’s event attracted over 170 participants and raised $5,500 for Hope for Tomorrow Mentoring, a local organization that works with middle school students in Burnsville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Lakeville, Bloomington and White Bear Lake schools. More than 70 HFT leaders in the local business community volunteer to mentor students each month, helping them set goals, build confidence and outline a path for future success. All race proceeds from donations and participation costs will benefit HFT.

The timed event will begin at 8 a.m. at Valley Natural Foods, 13750 County Road 11, Burnsville. The route starts on McAndrews Street East and turns off to follow roads in the residential areas surrounding Valley Natural Foods. Last year, HFT used the funds raised to open a new Lakeville chapter, to pay for mentee transportation costs for corporate and college visits along with paying for curriculum materials. Funds raised at the event will help the organization support the start-up of new chapters, develop new curriculum, invest in website upgrades and support the hiring of an executive director to solidify future growth. The Run for Hope 5K event is open to individuals of all ages. Children under the age of 18 need the signed permission from a legal guardian to participate. The registration cost is $28.25 per person. Register before April 20 to be guaranteed a T-shirt the

�� Maxine Mackey

Ronnei - Nelson Amy Ronnei, daughter of Scott and Kathy Ronnei of Eagan, MN, and Brian Nelson, son of Wayne and Rita Nelson of Apple Valley, MN, announce their engagement. Amy is a 2004 graduate of Burnsville High School and a 2008 graduate of UW-Madison. Brian is a 2007 graduate of Burnsville High School and a 2011 graduate of the U of M. An October 2012 wedding is planned.

See Briefs, 23A

Maxine Mackey, 83 of Mesa, AZ passed away on March 22, 2012. Maxine was born on may 21, 1928 in Okemah, OK where she spent her childhood days. She married Oak Mackey in 1949 in Anchorage, AL. Being a dedicated airline pilot’s wife, she lived in numerous states including Alaska, Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota (Farmington) while raising their six children. She was an active member of the Republic Airline Pilot’s Wives group for over thirty years. In 1992 she moved to Mesa, AZ and has been an active member of the community. She was the Chairman of Conventions and Director of Correspondence for the Second Air Division Association-Eighth Air Force; an active member of the Assistance League of East Valley serving as Chairman of the 2011 & 2012 Annual Fashion Show Fund-raiser; regularly attended her Red Hat luncheons and served in various Ministries at St. Bridget Catholic Church. Maxine is survived by her husband Oak of 62 years, their children, Randall, Susan, Doug, Robert, James & Anne; five sons and daughter’s in-law, seven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Memorial donations can be made to Assistance League of East Valley, Attn.: J. Parnell, 1950 N. Arizona Ave, Ste. 3, Chandler AZ 85225 in lieu of flowers.

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Women of Faith

Rivard - Mihm

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Lakeville Dental Associates

$50 OFF!

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952-469-3300

www.lakevilledental.com New Patients Welcome! 7 to 7, Mon-Thurs., 7-2, Friday

Dr. Jen Harrison voted a 2012 “Top Dentist” in Mpls. St. Paul Magazine

REAL ESTATE AUCTION – 78 RESIDENTIAL LOTS • 2 EXCEPTIONAL COMMERCIAL ACREAGES IN THE CITY OF LAKEVILLE, MN • ST. FRANCES WOODS ADDITION

Raymond and Ruth Rivard of Lakeville are pleased to announce the upcoming wedding of their daughter Kassi to Austin Mihm, the son of Steve and Jacque Mihm, also of Lakeville. Kassi, a 2007 graduate of Lakeville South High School, is a student at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities majoring in Interior Design, with a minor in Family Social Science. Kassi is also working as an intern at Cuningham Group Architecture in Minneapolis. Austin, a 2004 graduate of Lakeville High School, is a graduate of Metro State University, with a degree in International Business. Austin is employed at Best Buy Corporate as a Merchant Analyst. Kassi and Austin are planning on outdoor wedding in July.

Brunch & Antique Appraisals

“What’s it Worth”? Bring in an antique for appraisal by

The Peterson Sisters April 14, 2012 Brunch 11:30am

Faith United Methodist Church 710 8th Street Farmington, MN Brunch $8 Reservations Req. Appraisal Fee: $5 per Item Check - in begins at 11am! More info call 651-460-6110 or 651-463-8735. No coins, stamps or large pieces, 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@ecminc.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.

MATT MARING

CO. The Pexas have been builders and developers on the St. Frances Woods Addition for many years. They are at a point in life in which they will slow down and sell the remaining lots and acreage at public auction. AUCTION LOTION: 20800 Kenrick Ave., Lakeville, MN (the Holiday Inn, Lakeville, MN 55044).

Friday, April 20, 2012 10 A.M. SUPER SAVINGS – GREAT LOCATION

ATTENTION: Developers, Investors & Builders Anybody looking for great savings.

PARCEL 3 & 4 ARE CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE NEW WALMART AND MANY OTHER COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES

PARCEL 3 – 3.14 Acres

136,778.40 sq. ft. • Zoned C Commercial • Great location Hwy. 35 visibility H Located on 205th St. W., Lakeville, MN H Right across the street from Porter House Steak Restaurant H From the intersection of Kenrick & 205th St. W., first open lot east of intersection H PAD IS READY TO BE BUILT UPON.

PARCEL 4 – 12.11 Acres

527,511.60 sq. ft. • Zoned C Commercial • Great location Hwy. 35 visibility H Located off of Kenrick Ave. H Next to Holiday Inn Motel, Lakeville H Kenrick Ave. is frontage road to Hwy. 35. HUGE SAVINGS - EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION

Parcel 2 62 Paper Lots

Call for a complete detailed information packet: Maring Auction Co. • 800-801-4502 TERMS: Down payment - Parcel 1: $2,500 per lot; Parcel 2: $25,000 for entire parcel; Parcel 3: $30,000 for entire parcel; Parcel 4: $30,000 for entire parcel. The balance of purchase price is due and payable in full to the seller in 45-60 days. At closing the buyer shall receive a clear and marketable title. All parcels sell with pro-rated 2012 real estate taxes. All parcels sell with no contingency whatsoever. A parcel sells in as-is condition. All parcels sell with any and all matter of record. All earnest monies are nonrefundable if buyer fails to close. All buyers must have all finances in order. All buyers/bidders are encouraged to do their own due diligence. A 5% buyer's fee applies to this auction. This 5% shall be added above and beyond the bid price to equal full purchase contract price. Statements made day of auction may take precedence over any and all printed material.

PARCEL 1 – (16) Platted Residential Lots

Engineered and designed ready to build your single family home or twin home ST. FRANCES WOODS 8TH ADDITION Block 5 – RW01, RW02, RW03 Block 4 – RL01, RL02, RL03, RL04 Block 2 – RL06, RL07, RL08, RL09, RL010, RL011 ST. FRANCES WOODS 7TH ADDITION 3 pad lots off of Kearney Path. ALL LOTS LOCATED OFF OF KEARNEY PATH, LAKEVILLE

www.maringauction.com

PARCEL 2 – (62) Paper lots in St. Frances Future Addition Lakeville, MN

Plotted and ready for final plat. May be eligible for single family housing. Most lots off of Kaiser Way, Lakeville. All buffer and wetland complete. FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY FOR DEVELOPERS AND INVESTORS

Live and Online bidding at www.proxibid.com

proxibid

SELLER ATTORNEY: Scott Marek CLOSING AGENT FOR SELLERS: Dakota County Abstract, Apple Valley, MN • 952-997-4661

Dale & Fran Pexa

owners/sellers St. Frances Woods Subdivision of Lakeville, MN

We Sell the Earth & Everything On It.

MATT MARING AUCTION CO. INC. Kenyon, MN 55946 507-789-5421 • 800-801-4502

Matt Maring, Lic. #25-28 • 507-951-8354 Kevin Maring, Lic. #25-70 • 507-271-6280 Adam Engen, Lic. #25-93 • 507-213-0647 Charlie Sinnwell

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Briefs/from 22A size desired. To register for the event or to learn how to sponsor it, visit www.runforhope5k. com.

Lakeville networking group to have Visitors Day

The Power Links chapter of Business Network International will hold Visitors Day at 7:20 a.m. Thursday, April 5, at the Highview Hills Senior Living Center, 20150 Highview Ave., Lakeville. Local business representatives are invited. Visitors should park in the church parking lot behind the senior center. All visitors are asked to bring 100 business cards to network with local professionals. BNI is a group of business professionals that meet once a week, get to know and trust each other, and refer business back and forth. Only one business from each industry is allowed to join the group.

Cat medical service makes house calls House Calls for Cats, an at-home veterinary service just for cats, is accepting new clients in the Eagan area. Owner and veterinarian Dr. Lisa Mekka offers appointments Tuesday through Saturday, with afternoon and evening hours regularly available. For more information go online to www.HouseCallsforCats.com or call (651) 300- 4 -CAT.

Stylist finishes hair color training Eric Rushing of the Fantastic Sams salon in Eagan

located at 1629 Lena Court is one of 20 stylists who recently completed advanced Redken color training to become master color artists.

ture is the brainchild of brothers Randy and Don Stenger. Randy, who has three young boys was driving by a construction site several years ago when one of his boys said: “Dad wouldn’t it be fun to go play on those construction trucks.” From there, an idea was born. “We all remember digging and moving the sand in our sandboxes,” owner Randy Stenger said. “Before now, unless you were in the construction industry, you wouldn’t have the chance to harness the amazing power and strength of an excavator that weighs 10 times as much as an average car. Our experienced trainers ensure it’s a safe and fun adventure for anyone age 14 and over.” Extreme Sandbox will start operations Saturday, April 7 and have an open house from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, May 5. Gift certificates are available for all programs. Participants must be aged 14 and over. Extreme Sandbox primarily operates on weekends but is available during the week for groups of three or more. In addition to the individual programs, Extreme Sandbox customizes events and team-building programs for corporate and social groups from 4 to 40 people. Packaging for groups include the mandatory safety orientation, obstacles courses to complete on heavy machinery, team relay events, and catered lunches. “There are unlimited possibilities in working with corporate groups,” said Stenger. “Forget about golf outings or cooking classes, this will be the new thing corporate groups will dig – literally.” For reservations and information call toll free (855) DIG 4 FUN or go online to www.extremesandbox.com.

Legacy Awards will be presented April 12 Lakeview Bank, 9725 163rd St. W., Lakeville, will recognize the three recipients of its Legacy Award at the April 12 Business After Hours event from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. to be held at the bank. For more information, email Tom Mork at tmork@lakeviewbank.com.

Floral design company hosts bridal workshop As part of the grand opening of Studio B Floral Design, Burnsville, the wedding professionals at Make it Grand! will host a free DIY Bridal Workshop from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 22, at The Garden of River Ridge, 190 S. River Ridge Circle, Burnsville. A number of do-it-yourself ideas for weddings will be demonstrated. Studio B Floral Design is at 190 S. River Ridge Circle. Call (612) 788-7575 for more information.

Extreme Sandbox Launches in the Twin Cities A new company is offering the opportunity to experience the amazing muscle of heavy construction equipment to groups and individuals. Hastings-based Extreme Sandbox: The Heavy Equipment Adven-

Sun Thisweek March 30, 2012

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Education ‘Art for Kids’ program a success When the art teacher position at Lakeview Elementary School was cut, members of the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) came up with a program called “Art for Kids,” where classroom teachers and parent volunteers partner to present an art lesson once a month to the students at Lakeview Elementary. Since the program begin in November 2011, the teacher/parent partners have worked with kids on assemblages, self-portraits and a variety of other projects during this once-amonth, one-hour class. On March 30, 35 designers from Target Corporation will be at Lakeview Elementary to hold an Art Fair, open to students in grades

three through five. Stations will be set up to teach students about 3D creation, printmaking, product design and illustration. The designers will present general information about these topics and the related careers. Following that, during two 30-minute lessons, the students will have the opportunity to learn in detail and ask questions on two topics of their choice. Talks are under way to provide this program once every quarter. For more information on the Lakeview Elementary Art for Kids program, contact Laura Boche, PTO president, (952) 232-2600.

DCTC Foundation hosts True Blue

Gala Dakota County Technical College’s Foundation will host its inaugural True Blue Gala on Thursday, April 19, at Brackett’s Crossing County Club in Lakeville. Community members and college supporters are invited to attend the event, which was established to raise scholarship funds for students in need. The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a social hour and silent auction followed by dinner at 7 p.m. and an awards ceremony at 8 p.m. Gala tickets can be purchased online at dctc.edu/ go/trueblue or by calling (651) 423-8777. For more information on the True Blue Gala, contact Tharan Leopold, DCTC Foundation executive director, at tharan.leopold@ dctc.edu or (651) 423-8293.

Religion Eagan Used athletic shoes wanted

The St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church youth ministry group is seeking donations of used athletic shoes from the community through Thursday, April 5, as a Green Sneakers project to raise funds for a June mission trip. Twelve youth participants ages 16 to 18, and four adults, will head to Jamaica to serve the community of St. Ann’s Bay for seven days, working in people’s homes, in orphanages, and in community centers. The Green Sneakers project helps to raise funds for the trip. The youth ministry group receives $.50 per pound of sneakers it turns in to Green Sneakers (www. greensneakers.org). A collection bin is lo-

cated in the church’s gathering space area. Donations can be dropped off during weekend mass hours (Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.) or during weekday office hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). For questions about the project, visit www. st.thomasbecket.org or contact Eric Duffy at (651) 683-9808 or eduffy@ st.thomasbecket.org.

Burnsville Christ in Passover

Liz Goldstein of Jews for Jesus will recreate the traditional Passover service and explain how it foreshadowed Jesus’ death and resurrection in a presentation called “Christ in the Passover” at 7 p.m. Satur-

�� day, March 31, at Lutheran Church of the Ascension, 1801 E. Cliff Road, Burnsville. The event is free. For more information, call (952) 890-3412.

Greg Tamblyn comedy concert Humorist and songwriter Greg Tamblyn will perform a comedy concert at 7 p.m. Sunday, April 15, at Unity of the Valley Spiritual Center, 4011 W. Highway 13, Savage. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tamblyn’s concerts feature songs such as “SelfEmployment Made Harder by Difficult Boss,” “Analog Brain in a Digital World,” and “The Shootout At The I’m OK You’re OK Corral.” More information about Tamblyn is at GregTamblyn.com.

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