SUN Thisweek Farmington and Lakeville by Sun Thisweek

Farmington | Lakeville

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August 24, 2012 | Volume 33 | Number 26

Roundabout planned in 2014 Some residents concerned about access after project at junction of county roads 50 and 60 by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

Farewell, dolphin friends The Minnesota Zoo is inviting the public to come and say goodbye to its Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, which are on exhibit through Sept. 9. Page 10A

mature lifestyles

Rush-hour commutes in Lakeville often involve passage through the intersection of county roads 50 (Kenwood Trail) and 60 (185th Street). County Road 60 feeds to and from I-35 and County Road 50 takes Lakeville residents through a huge swath of the city northand southbound. But navigating that intersection (or near it) has become an exercise in traveling at a molasses pace. Both roads are near capacity where they meet. The most recent data, from 2009, indicates that about 28,250 vehicles a day enter the intersection. So traffic becomes slow- or no-going as motorists wait several minutes and multiple stoplight cycles to clear the hurdle. Because of this, Lakeville and Dakota County will redesign the

intersection to be a multi-lane roundabout, which a 2011 study said was the best way to control traffic. The city currently has a small roundabout on Kenrick Avenue and 175th Street. There has been some concern voiced about the project. The City Council tabled a joint powers agreement at its Monday, Aug. 20, meeting because it had questions about the agreement with Dakota County. City Administrator Steve Mielke said the level of service, combined with cost-effectiveness, makes the roundabout the best option. The cost comparison is significant, he said. A standard, expanded intersection would cost $8.3 million, whereas a multilane roundabout would cost $3.5 million. See roundabout, 16A

Graphic submitted

The city of Lakeville and Dakota County are planning a multilane roundabout at county roads 50 and 60 in Lakeville as a way to address increasingly gridlocked traffic.

County refuses to plea bargain Defendants weren’t shown results from St. Paul crime lab

Lakeville man back to school Lakeville man who suffered a life-changing injury didn’t let it stop him from going back to school. Page 12A

sports

by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Dakota County Attorney Jim Backstrom’s office refused in May to make plea bargains in cases where defendants requested their full files from the St. Paul Police Department Crime Lab, according to court documents. In the case of a 33-year-old St. Paul man charged with possession of methamphetamine and misdemeanor theft, Assistant Dakota County Attorney Vance “Chip” Grannis III told Judge Karen Asphaug in May his office decided

to make those refusals to expedite cases. Court records quote Grannis: “And your honor, he’s not being punished; it’s — the rules regarding plea bargaining say one of the things to take into consideration in making plea bargains is efficiency, and it’s our office’s position that if the St. Paul crime lab and our office need to gather all that additional information,that isn’t effecient. And therefore, if we put in that extra time gathering all that information, we’re not going to make plea bargains in those cases.”

Phil Prokopowicz, chief deputy Dakota County attorney, wrote a six-page request Monday to Judge Kathryn Messerich asking to halt the evidentiary Frye-Mack hearing brought by public defender Lauri Traub and Christine Funk of the State’s Trial Team that has uncovered multiple inadequacies of drug evidence testing procedures, a lack of written policies and little personnel training in seven cases. Those revelations have led to questions of whether drug eviSee crime lab, 20A

Legion Post 189 to survive Building name will change to Tailgaters after purchase, but members will continue to meet there and maintain pulltab operation by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Football season starts Thursday Lakeville North will open with a crosstown match at Lakeville South. Page 14A

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Photo by Laura Adelmann

Craig and Vickie Loeschke are the new owners of Tailgaters Sports Bar & Grill, formerly the American Legion. The Loeschkes’s purchase allowed the American Legion to continue selling pulltabs and holding meetings at the same building.

A Farmington couple pulled out of the stock market to invest in themselves, the community and the future of the American Legion Clifford Larson Post 189. Craig and Vicki Loeschke, with additional financial backing from investor Howard Nissen of Savage, purchased the service organization’s restaurant, saving the post from bankruptcy after a fire and a string of bad luck. The restaurant, renamed Tailgaters Sports Bar & Grill, serves a variety of food including a salad bar, Mexican and American fare, sandwiches and hamburgers Friday night fish fry specials. Loeschke said they wanted an investment opportunity that See Legion, 22A

Rollover crash in Burnsville kills two teens Car spun out of control, rolled onto I-35

by Aaron M. Vehling

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Sun Thisweek

A rollover crash on Buck Hill Road near I-35 and County Road 46 caused the deaths of two teens and injured three others Tuesday afternoon. The Minnesota State Patrol identified Alesha Roehl, 17, of Northfield, Minn., and Frederick Alexander, 16, of Burnsville, as the teens who died in the crash. All five passengers were teenagers, according to media reports. At about 2:30 p.m., a 1992 Toyota Camry, driven by a 17-yearold Lakeville boy, was speeding

along Buck Hill Road when it went out of control, rolled down the embankment and landed on the southbound lanes of I-35, according to the State Patrol. Alexander died at the scene and Roehl was transported to Hennepin County Medical Center with serious injuries, where she was later pronounced dead in the evening. The driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at Fairview Ridges in Burnsville. Two other passengers received minor injuries and were treated at HCMC. No alcohol was involved in the crash, but both Roehl and Alex-

ander were not wearing their seat belts when they were ejected from the Camry, according to the State Patrol. Crews closed the southbound lanes of I-35 for hours Tuesday evening, which caused significant backups on both I-35W and I-35E during rush hour. The State Patrol is still investigating the cause of the accident. Aaron M. Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Lakeville candidates come from variety of backgrounds Almost all of Lakeville City Council is running for office Editor’s note: Due to incorrect information from the Minnesota Secretary of State, last week’s story on Lakeville City Council candidate filings omitted the name of Doug Anderson as a City Council candidate. Sun Thisweek regrets any confusion this has caused and regrets the error. by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

With the filing period over, voters are turning their attention to those who are running for Lakeville city or school board positions. Those candidates who declared their candidacy before the July 31-Aug. 14 filing period have been featured in profiles in Sun Thisweek over the course of the first part of the year. Links to those stories are included in the online version of this story at sunthisweek.com/ Lakeville-Candidates/. Stories on the newly declared candidates will be published over the coming weeks.

City Council, mayor There are three candidates for two open seats on the Lakeville City Council. Doug Anderson, a member of the council’s newly created Financial Advisory Committee and chief financial officer at Hamline University, announced in late June. David Bares announced his run in late February. Bares is a member of the Lakeville Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary. Bares owns and manages Bares Executive Search LLC, a search firm that recruits talented executives for leading Minnesota companies. This month Kerrin Swecker announced her intention to seek re-election to the council. She was appointed in 2007 and won her current seat in 2008. Swecker is an account manager for CenturyLink. Before her appointment to the council, she was chair of the Planning ComSee candidates, 21A

August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

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Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

Area food shelf becomes mobile

Mobile Pantry to stop at Apple Valley Church on Sept. 10 by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

In 2007 the Eagan and Lakeville Resource Centers joined the food revolution by offering fresh produce, dairy and meats at the two food shelves. Now, the Eagan nonprofit is taking the food revolution to the streets by bringing the pantry to those in need. “When looking at our clients’ greatest need, we found that a big part is transportation — many don’t have reliable modes,” said Sarah Schmidt, fresh food coordinator for the Resource Centers. “So we decided to take it to them.” The nonprofit recently purchased a refurbished short bus that will roll out for the first time Sept. 10 to bring goods to Restoration Covenant Church at 7707 147th St. W. in Apple Valley. The center chose the church as the Mobile Pantry’s first destination since it is a gathering place in a busy location. The Mobile Pantry can carry up to 1,800 pounds of food, which will consist primarily of fresh produce, dairy, eggs and meats. Providing healthy options has been a large part of the center’s focus since it first began offering produce four years ago. Since then, the center’s pantries in Eagan and Lakeville have boosted the amount of fresh foods each year. In 2011, fresh and perishable foods accounted for 50 percent of the pantries’ stock, which rose to 70 percent this year.

“Our goal is to make it easier for families to access fresh and healthy food,” Schmidt said. Families will be able to walk inside the truck, which is accessible to those with disabilities, to select items, which Schmidt said sets the center’s Mobile Pantry apart from others in the Twin Cities. Several food banks offer mobile pantries but provide pre-packed bags of canned goods rather than allow clients to choose items that include fresh foods. “We want people to have the freedom and flexibility to make choices,” Schmidt said. Not only will families have access to food through the Mobile Pantry but also resources that connect them to assistance programs. The Resource Centers plan to bring the Mobile Pantry to other sites in

March. Long-term, the center plans to deploy the Mobile Pantry about four times a month in several communities. When selecting a destination, the center will examine which communities are most in need, Schmidt said. “We’re trying to look at it as one neighborhood at a time to get to that very localized need,” she said. The Resource Centers are in need of volunteers to help pack the bus. Those interested in volunteering can call (651) 605-2886 or email mobilepantry@eaganrc.org. Those who are in need of services provided by the Mobile Pantry can call (651) 686-0787.

Photo submitted

Eagan and Lakeville Resource Centers leaders Nancy Wester, community relations manager, John Jaeger, operations manager, Sarah Schmidt, fresh foods coordinator, Mary Freeman, program manager and Kris Albright, office manager, show off the nonprofit’s new Mobile Pantry. The Mobile Pantry will be deployed for the first time on Sept. 10 at Restoration Covenant Church in Apple Valley.

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

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Opinion

August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Opening doors with 360 Communities Dakota Healthy Families by Molly Perry Special to Sun Thisweek

Amanda wants to be good mother to her son Kyle. However, she has struggled with a history of sexual, physical and emotional abuse, and her own mother is an alcoholic. She has self-esteem issues and, as a teenager, she was diagnosed with ADHD and mental illness. Without a solid role model in her life, developing good parenting skills has been elusive. During Amanda’s pregnancy, the father of her child was imprisoned. When she gave birth to Kyle, a hospital parent visitor determined she was eligible for 360 Communities Dakota Healthy Families and referred her to the program. Amanda agreed to participate out of fear her child would be taken away. In many ways, Amanda’s story is why programs like Healthy Families are critical. Healthy Families has done essential work to promote safe, healthy and nurturing homes for children and prepare them for kindergarten. Healthy Families home visitors use an early intervention and prevention-focused approach to teach parents how to provide early learning, to help build social and emotional intelligence in their children, to keep the children current on immunizations, and to help prepare them for a successful preschool screening. A 2006 University of Minnesota study found that Healthy Families nearly pays for itself by avoiding cases of child neglect and abuse. The study also noted that “long-term

In Brief

Guest Columnist

Molly Perry

cost-avoidance is much greater, as early intervention programs like (Healthy Families) often head off long-term dependency on government programs such as welfare, special education and the criminal justice system.” Art Rolnick, a senior fellow with the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs and a former director of research with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, says early childhood development programs have an annual return on investment of up to 16 percent, beating stock portfolios and other forms of economic development. “The return of investment in early childhood development is extraordinary, resulting in better-working public schools, more educated workers, and less crime,” Rolnick has said. Amanda’s involvement with Healthy Families home visitor Sarah was only sporadic during the first few months. Her history of abuse made it difficult for her to trust people. She started drug and alcohol use at a young age and never finished school. Consequently, her self-esteem was low. Since Kyle was born, Amanda had been told by her mom, Kyle’s

Dakota Healthy Families is one of the 360 Communities school success programs that help break the cycle of poverty by engaging parents in their children’s development and giving families a vested interest in their future and the future of their children. More information about Healthy Families is at (952) 985-5300 or the website 360Communities.org. Healthy Families currently has Spanishspeaking home visitors available to assist Latino clients. If you or someone you know would like to inquire about this kind of support, contact 360 Communities at (952) 985-5300. father, the police and even perfect strangers she was not a good mother. This criticism prompted her to act out of fear, and attempt to make changes like giving up drugs and starting anti-anxiety medication. However, none of the changes would stick. Healthy Families’s curriculum is set up to affect sustainable change with clients and their children. It includes activities that focus on identifying and cultivating family values. Sarah worked with Amanda to lay out and examine her core values. Amanda wanted to be a good mother, stop using drugs and finish school. It was clear Amanda tried hard to achieve these things, but with little support and few life skills to draw from, she had so far

been unsuccessful. Sarah spent four years building a bond of trust with Amanda and working with her through the Healthy Families curriculum. And the program has paid huge dividends for both Amanda and Kyle. “The supportive and consistent nature of our program and our strength-based approach has helped Amanda no longer act completely out of fear, but from the goals and values that she has for her family,” says Sarah, “Amanda looks to me for support and I have been able to have some pretty honest and difficult discussions with her.” According to Sarah, Amanda is now connected to Early Childhood Special Education and is more aware of other resources in the community. She is now married and belongs to a church community. In addition, she no longer uses drugs, alcohol and tobacco. “She would like to go to therapy for herself in the future and knows that she can do it when she is ready,” says Sarah, “I am excited because she feels hope. She actually believes me when I praise her and she believes she can live out her values for her family.” Amanda graduated from the Healthy Families program in July with an open door of possibilities for herself and her son Kyle. Molly Perry is 360 Communities Dakota Healthy Families supervisor. Names in the column have been changed to protect confidentiality. Columns reflect the opinion of the author.

‘Beat the Odds’ schools can help train new teachers by Joe Nathan Sun Thisweek

If you received millions of dollars to help prepare teachers and wanted to include nearby public schools, wouldn’t you include some of the area’s most effective public schools? Yes, I think many of us would. Unfortunately, that’s not what some teacher preparation programs are doing as part of their work, supported by the Bush Foundation. In a recent annual report, the Bush Foundation says its goal in providing tens of millions of dollars to improve teacher preparation is “to improve educational achievement for all students and close persistent achievement gaps.” For several years, Minnesota’s largest daily newspaper, the Star Tribune, has published lists of metro area district and charter public schools that are “beating the odds.” These are schools that have 75 percent or more students from low-income families. They are bringing these students’ reading and/or math skills up to, and in some cases, above, Minnesota’s statewide average.

Sun Thisweek Columnist

Joe Nathan

Wouldn’t you think that colleges that want to help the Bush Foundation achieve its goals would include, as partners, public schools that are closing achievement gaps? So far that’s not what the University of Minnesota is doing. I asked Mistilina Sato, a professor who directs the Bush funded program at the University of Minnesota, “on the record” which of the metro area’s “Beat the Odds” schools they were working with as partners. Her response was: “None. We did not target ‘beat the odds’ schools from this list and in Minneapolis and St. Paul, the district leadership played a role in assigning certain schools to the university for partnership de-

velopment. We are proud to be in partnership with Brooklyn Center schools and have worked with their high school in their School Improvement Grant and in Minneapolis with Roosevelt high School which is in a school turn-around status. We are aiming to be an added value to our school partners in helping them improve student achievement through co-teaching and professional support that we might offer. Maybe one day we will see some of our partner schools on the Beat the Odds list!” The Bush Foundation also has funded a group of private colleges of education to help improve teacher preparation. They include Augsburg, Bethel, Concordia, Hamline, St. Catherine’s and St. Thomas. I asked Laura Mogelson who helps direct this effort if any of the these schools were using “beat the odds” as sites to train teachers as part of their Bush funded work. She responded, “Of the six TC2 institutions, I do not believe they have official partnerships with the schools on the list.” But Mogelson said they planned to “start partnership conversations with additional sites,

including secondary charter schools) for future cohorts (possibly 13-14).” Conversations are a good first step. But several years after the Bush Foundation started providing funds, it’s still not clear whether teacher preparation programs it is supporting are going to use some of the “beating the odds” schools as “partner” sites to help train new teachers. I mentioned this to former teacher principal, superintendent and Minnesota Department of Education assistant commissioner Mary Ann Nelson. She responded, “ Unbelievable. They need to rethink what they are doing.” I agree. Including some of Minnesota’s most effective public schools as partner/training sites would help more teachers, and more students, succeed. Joe Nathan, formerly a Minnesota public school teacher and administrator, directs the Center for School Change. Reactions welcome, joe@centerforschoolchange.org. Columns reflect the opinion of the author.

Letters Township official won’t vote for Garofalo

even though he has espoused to being pro local government. He voted for large corporations over the need of his constituents. To the editor: Being an area township of- He will not get my vote this ficial I have made it a practice year. to watch the state Legislature and their lawmaking as it per- Larry Odegard tains to local governments. I Northfield was worried this last session when House File 389 was in- Little listens, troduced. then acts House File 389 would have weakened local governments To the editor: by stopping the ability of that When I moved to Lakeville local government from impos- nine years ago, one of the first ing a moratorium. The power things I noticed was the exof a moratorium allows the tremely dangerous condition local government to put a on Flagstaff Avenue between temporary freeze on a major 160th Street and Dodd Bouledevelopment when the com- vard. munity is caught off-guard by There was rampant speedunanticipated and potentially ing every day no matter the harmful proposals. Some po- time. I repeatedly called the tentially harmful proposals police to have them send adcould be frac sand mines, large ditional patrol, which helped, factory farms, quarries and but only for a short time. I have three children and was big-box stores like Walmart. I was dismayed when Rep. very fearful for their safety, so Pat Garofalo, R-Farmington, much so, I didn’t allow them voted in favor of H.F. 389 in the front yard. There were weakening local governments, times when I almost got hit by

speeding cars getting my mail. About a year ago, I approached Council Member Matt Little to get help regarding this dangerous condition. I have seen too many drivers put people’s lives at risk on Flagstaff. Little understood the issue as he has lived in the area most of his life. He listened to my concerns and took this issue head on. After researching traffic calming techniques, he talked to city staff about ways to decrease speeds and they came up with a few great ideas. To gain additional support, Little suggested that we go door to door in the neighborhood to let residents know about some of the ideas. I was very impressed that Little was willing to go above and beyond what I thought a council member would and should do. Because of Little’s involvement and action, late this summer two speed signs were installed on each end of Flagstaff Avenue and the lanes were narrowed to slow drivers.

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I have already seen a marked decrease in speed. Drivers are now more aware of how fast they are going thanks to Little’s efforts. I feel safer for my family than I have since moving in. I have every confidence that if speeding returns, Little will do what is right for my family and the citizens of Lakeville and take additional steps in calming the traffic conditions. Because of this I hope Little becomes our next mayor. The past two years on the council are a testament to his ability to listen to residents and get things done. Chris Johnson Lakeville

Doug Anderson for council To the editor: Lakeville City Council candidate Doug Anderson not only has a lifelong finance background but has successfully run his own business and held many management roles that include his current position as CFO of Hamline University. As longtime Lakeville business owners and residents ourselves, it is important to us that our city is held to the same fiscally responsible standards that we need to practice to survive. After all, it is all Lakeville property owners that cover the blunders. Anderson’s lifelong finance history, education and hands-on experience back up his campaign commitment and assure us of this. He truly possesses the credentials to stand behind his fiscally conservative platform. Additionally, Doug and Deb Anderson have raised both their children in Lakeville calling Lakeville their home for 29 years. They both continue their parents’ legacy’s of giving back to our community through the numerous civic and service

organizations they volunteer in. Seems obvious that what he claims and stands for he has proven by his past performance and thus it makes him the perfect candidate for Lakeville City Council. Tim & Cindy Murphy Lakeville

Maintaining precious investments To the editor: Recent mention of the state’s $2 billion debt to public schools is worth a look. The state Legislature cast around for a place to borrow money to be able to “balance” Minnesota’s budget. It’s like the “raids” Congress has organized on the Social Security fund, except this money is part of the treasure of hardpressed school districts. We hear from “budget hawks” that schools are not being “accountable,” that they harbor waste. Yet the University of Minnesota’s investment research chief, Art Rolnick, a self-described conservative, says we are “under-investing” in education. It’s said extreme caution about spending state money created an atmosphere where engineers didn’t have the courage to propose necessary, expensive repairs to U-shaped gussets that were only half the strength they needed to be, on the I-35W bridge in 2007. The result was a loss of 13 lives and hundreds of millions of dollars. The state education budget has parallels. It wasn’t long ago that Minnesota was an education leader. Class sizes of 30 students were considered too large for effective learning. We have since passed the 40-student mark in many places, and the number is climbing. School fees have shot up and property taxes, which most hurt people on fixed incomes, have increased

dramatically. People who say that’s interesting but they have no children in public schools are missing the point. Our economy did well when we invested money in our public education system. Good schools are a catalyst in reviving our state’s financial activities and a way to ensure the ability of Minnesotans to compete on an increasingly competitive world stage. Larry Koenck Eagan

Who is paying the largest share? To the editor: What possible creative juices can Paul Hoffinger (“A puzzle and key,” Sun Thisweek Aug. 17) relate to when he says our problems stem from an underpaid workforce that is taxed far beyond their “fair share”? Sounds like the platform of a party that has led us into a debt crisis which obligates our families to come up with almost $50,000 in order to eradicate it. My friends, clients and colleagues are well aware they are picking up the tab for the 99 percent who are paying their “fair share.” Who is putting $10,000 in the education pot for every child they have in our public schools? Nobody I know, except me and my friends and clients. If you check closely you will find huge numbers of Minnesotans aren’t even covering their maintenance with the taxes they pay or don’t pay. As I have said many times in a multitude of letters, my clients range from the upper 5 percent to 1 percent and the only thing they consider “luck” in their lives is finding someone who could open their eyes to the opportunities available to all. FRANKLIN WICKER Lakeville

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

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Grassroots effort for ice grows Farmington will consider arena location next month

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by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Walter ‘Dean’ Worcester

Laurie Burchett (Orndorff)

Born 1/22/1925, went to heaven at 87 of Farmington, MN. Preceded in death by sister Julia “Olive”, brother Lewis and parents Henry & Mary. He was a popular figure in the Lakeville and Farmington areas, at the Sr. Center and the many areas he visited. He had a unique style and was loved by all who knew him. He always had a handful of fresh cut flowers for the ladies and a joking style with the men. Dean represented many qualities of an era gone by, yet brought those without concern into the present day. Dean will be sadly missed by all who loved him. Dean had many special friends who cared for him; John Emory, Jim Kempainen, Ray & Lorraine Swedeen, Kenny Schonning, Jan Gilmer, Marv & Rosy Luedke, Vern Peterson, Judy Christensen, Lee Slavicek, Joe Harris, and many others not counted. A Christian Service will be held at the United Methodist Church, 278th St. W., Castle Rock, MN at 11:00AM on Saturday, August 25, 2012, with visitation 1 hour prior to service White Funeral Home Lakeville (952) 469-2723 www.whitefuneralhomes.com

Age 47 of Argyle, IA (formerly of New Market) died peacefully August 12, 2012, from a short battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her father, Allan Orndorff; Grandparents, Chester and Viola (Kroll) Orndorff, and Joseph and Rose (Welter) De Gross; Survived by Mother, Rose Orndorff, husband, Ron; siblings, Suzanne (Dan) Slater, Patty Orndorff, Kurt Orndorff, Jess Orndorff, Lynnette (Tom) Walentiny, and Lynn (Pat) Magalis. Also many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins and in-laws. Laurie graduated from Lakeville High School. She was employed for many years at BCBS until moving to Iowa. Laurie loved to spend time with family, friends, with her pets, and gardening. Though she was taken from us too soon, she will be forever loved and greatly missed. So will her laughter and compassion. Laurie was cremated shortly after passing, per her request. A Benefit/remembrance was held Aug. 25 at the NoWhere Bar in Ft. Madison, IA. 319-376-5904. Laurie, your star will ‘forever shine bright”.

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Support is growing for a grassroots organization’s plan to privately fund construction of a $3 million ice arena for the city of Farmington. Next month, City Council members will consider a proposal by the volunteer organization “Ice for Tigers” to attach a second ice sheet to the east side of Farmington’s Schmitz-Maki Arena, open the concessions area and allow safer storage of the city’s Zamboni. Without initiating a formal fundraiser, organizers are already $360,141 toward their $1.5 million goal from investors and contributors to start the project by 2013. Any debt incurred is planned to be repaid within five years. Past obstacles to development can be overcome, said Ice for Tigers member and city resident Rob Juncker. Late 2010 soil tests have shown the preferred property can be built upon and that environmental requirements necessi-

Photo by Laura Adelmann

Farmington-area residents Mitch Snobeck, Cal Huntley, Brian McGregor and Rob Juncker are core members of Ice for Tigers, a grassroots organization working to build a second ice arena in Farmington. tated by its proximity to the Vermillion River can be addressed. Ice for Tigers members have researched various building options, including a dome that would be taken down in the summer, and determined the preferred option is pre-formed

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and insulated cement walls resembling the SchmitzMaki Arena. 292 Design Group of Minneapolis, which is experienced in arena construction, developed blueprints for the group. Members are presenting the concept to business, city and school

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Doris ‘Dorcas’ Ulvi

Kari Elizabeth Goddard (April 8, 1996 - August 18, 2012) Age 16 of Lakeville, passed away August 18, 2012. Preceded in death by her grandmother, Terecita Kostner and grandfather, Douglas Goddard. Survived by her mother, Renee` Kostner Osberg (Rick Osberg) and father, Del (Michele) Goddard; sister, Katie Goddard; Grandparents: Ray (Mary) Kostner and Allenor Goddard; step-siblings: Katy Coyle, Jacob Osberg, and Martin Osberg. She is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives and many friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. Funeral service, was 11am Thursday, August 23, 2012 at White Funeral Home Chapel (20134 Kenwood Tr) Lakeville. Visitation was held from 4-8pm Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at White Funeral Home. White Funeral Home Chapel Lakeville (952) 469-2723 www.whitefuneralhomes.com

Sister Ann Dominic, O.P, (nee Karen Mahowald), daughter of George and Maureen Mahowald of Lakeville, made her first profession of vows at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, Nashville, TN on July 28, 2012. Sister is a member of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia congregation. She graduated from Lakeville High School in 2004 and the Catholic University of America in 2008, with a double major in Secondary Education and French. Prior to entering the convent she taught high school at Pope John Paul the Great High School in Dumfries, VA. Friends are welcome to send greetings to: Sister Ann Dominic, O.P., 801 Dominican Drive, Nashville, TN 37228.

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See Grassroots, 6A

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district leaders to garner support for the project they hope will begin next year. An alternative location for the rink is the Farmington High School. Mitch Snobeck, a 14year Farmington resident,

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Of Farmington passed away unexpectedly August 18, 2012. Preceded in Death by parents, James and Anne Tuite; sister: Annamarie. Survived by her loving Husband of 60 Years: Edward; son: James (Lorrie), daughters, Pam, Debbie (Ed), Mary (Fred), Marla, JoLynn (Randy), MaryHelen (Jim); fifteen grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren; brothers: Joe, Pat and James; sister; Margaret, and many other relatives and friends. She will be missed dearly. We love you (Gone but Never Forgotten) Doris was well known at the Farmington Bakery where she worked for 34 years. A luncheon was held at St. Michaels Catholic Church in Farmington on August 21, 2012 at noon for family and close friends. Online condolences at www.whitefuneralhomes.com White Funeral Home Farmington, 651 463 7374

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Grassroots, from 5A tion costs low. Snobeck added the District 196 teacher and Schmitz-Maki Arena would hockey parent, started Ice remain the city’s main ice for Tigers last winter after for varsity games. many parents expressed “The second sheet would frustration with the amount be regulation size, but it of gas, time and effort it won’t have the seating or takes to travel for practices, amenities,” he said. games, tournaments and ice For example, seating in the second arena would be skating shows. Concerns were raised provided by portable metal about the commerce those chairs. school district travels transfer from Farm- The ington businesses to cities has indicated a desire for like Faribault, Hastings improved varsity locker and South St. Paul where rooms, but final plans are yet to be determined, ice time is available. Members also voiced Juncker said. frustration that some Those issues are planned time-crunched families are to be included in an joint forced to keep their chil- powers agreement among Ice for Tigers, the city and dren from ice sports. Ice for Tigers member school district. Brian McGregor said his The group has devised daughter is a hockey player fundraising programs to and his son would like to pay ongoing costs. pursue the sport, but with Ice for Tigers member the way things are now, he Brian McGregor said they expect the arena will be a will not have that chance. “The reason we don’t city facility, and McKnight want our second in it is confirmed city staff is travel time,” McGregor working with Ice for Tigers said. “He would like to be regarding the financial imin it, but we can’t make that plications of a second sheet, but declined to indicate if commitment.” Ice for Tigers members he supported the project. said even in ideal winter A few years ago, costs weather, parents spend to build a new arena were more time traveling than estimated at $6 million, but their children spend on the Juncker said the new plan cuts costs in part by sharing ice at practice. Financing the project resources like the surfacer, is the major hurdle, es- pumps, cooler and back-up pecially since profitabil- compressor. ity has been an issue at the Ice for Tigers member arena. In 2011, the arena Cal Huntley said one of the lost $14,823, according to main goals is to utilize local City Administrator Dave businesses in the project’s construction. McKnight. Mayor Todd Larson said “One of our goals is to research indicates it is near- keep this project as local ly impossible for cities to as possible,” Huntley said. make money with only one “We want to make sure this sheet of ice, but cash flow is is the community’s rink, much easier with two rinks. and something the commu Also a hockey parent, nity can be proud of.” Larson called the second ice Juncker added Ice for sheet a “huge economic de- Tigers organizers are wary velopment tool” that could of plans that could escalate result in weekend tourna- costs and threaten the projments that bring hundreds ect’s viability. of people into town, pur- “Each group that has an chasing food and drinks, interest in the new ice is going to have to decide their gas and hotel rooms. “This sheet of ice could level of need and particilift it into profitability,” pation and with that level will have some stipulations Larson said of the arena. One of the primary con- if their need is outside the cerns of Ice for Tigers’ vol- bounds of the basic plan unteers is to keep construc- to build a basic structure.”

Juncker said. “We’re hopeful, though, that the groups will focus on the short-term need as well as get on-board to support the other participants to make it a win-win situation for everyone involved.” Ice for Tigers will seek Farmington City Council approval for the arena’s location and the ability to sell naming rights next month. Farmington City Council Member Jason Bartholomay said he is in support of the plan. “It’s very promising,” Bartholomay said. “This group looks like they’re very well organized. It appears to me that this time I think we should be able to get something done as long as … the school district, city and youth hockey association really partner up. … One body can’t absorb all the cost of it.” Larson supports the plan and is encouraged by the efforts to get the project built with private financing. “I think it’s a wonderful deal if it works out the way they say it’s going to work out,” Larson said. “It’s refreshing to see people actually give back to their community.” Farmington School Board Chair Tera Lee, whose great-uncle is Louie Schmitz, one of the Schmitz-Maki Arena’s namesakes, predicted the project will be successful and will be “great for the community.” She said her grandfather Leonard Schmitz, Louie’s brother, was involved in the original arena project but was unable to devote the same amount of time as Louie did. “I feel like (the new arena) would just affirm all the work that Louie and my grandpa did in town,” Lee said. “In my heart, I know if he were alive, Louie would be hopping up and down.” Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Lakeville makes Money Magazine’s Top 20 ‘best U.S. small cities’ list by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

Lakeville has made the Top 20 on Money Magazine’s 100 Best Places to Live, a list of the publication’s top-ranked best small American cities. “I think it’s an honor and a tribute to the community,” City Administrator Steve Mielke said. Coming in at 19, Lakeville was lauded for its educa-

tion and parks systems and its proximity to the various happenings in Minneapolis and commercial centers in neighboring suburbs. “Kids have it good in Lakeville,” the magazine writes. “All 14 of Lakeville’s public schools beat the state averages; summertime brings swimming, boating and fishing at Marion and Orchard lakes…” Money also had kind

words for the trails in the city, though it mistook the Genesee Valley Greenway system in New York State for one in Lakeville. Lakeville previously rated 26 on the list in 2008. Aaron M. Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/ sunthisweek.

Police investigating thefts from vehicles Sun Thisweek

Farmington police are investigating about 25 thefts from unlocked vehicles that have occurred since the first week in August. Most of the thefts have involved cars parked on streets or inside unlocked garages, Det. Sgt. Lee Hollatz said. “None of them have been break-ins,” Hollatz said. “So, it’s the going into unlocked cars. Once again, we encourage citizens to make sure doors are locked on their cars, and garage doors are shut and locked.” He said the majority of the thefts have occurred in

the city’s downtown area east of Highway 3, but they have also happened throughout the city. Hollatz said the department is investigating two incidents where the thefts occurred inside a garage, and those cases can be charged as a burglary. The department is investigating one burglary that involved a house break-in and theft of many items including jewelry. “We do not believe that is linked to the theft from cars,” Hollatz said. Among the items stolen out of the cars are navigational devices, sunglasses, change and cigarettes. He said the department

believes the culprits are teenage youths, and they have identified several suspects and spoken to several parents and juveniles regarding the crimes. Hollatz emphasized that residents should be diligent about locking their homes and cars. “Anyone who leaves their car unlocked is a target,” he said. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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by Laura Adelmann

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Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Asbestos, roof repairs OK’d for old senior center by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

After four years of vacancy, the former Farmington Senior Center building will be repaired. Farmington City Council members reluctantly agreed to spend $54,998 to remove asbestos and repair roof damage in the 6,000square-foot building on a 3-2 vote. City Council Member Christy Jo Fogarty cast the tie-breaker, concluding the city will either pay for the repairs by doing the work or taking a reduced price for the building when it sells. “It might move the property,” Fogarty said, adding the improvements

might not result in a sale of the 1923 building, but the city has to protect it. The orange brick building at Third and Spruce streets was vacated when the senior center was moved to the old City Hill on Oak Street. Before the vote, council members wrestled with the decision. Fogarty said she was not sure the city is responsible for funding the asbestos removal, and suggested the city delay the project until grant funds became available. “I’m just not 100 percent sold that this should be a taxpayer burden,” she said. Council Member Julie

Photo by Laura Adelmann

Damaged shingles can be seen on the former senior center building. Across the street is the new Farmington City Hall, which has a roof line that soars above the older city-owned building, built in 1923. May said she wished the city would have repaired the building years ago.

“Although I’m typically not one to say spend money, I wish we would have

done this the first month that I was on the council,” May said. “As soon as we agreed to remove the seniors we should have made this decision.” Council Member Terry Donnelly said doing the repairs would give the city more options and make the building more marketable. “We’ll get the money back in a higher sale price,” Donnelly said. Mayor Todd Larson and Council Member Jason Bartholomay voted against the resolution. City staff will replace damaged shingles and a $2,000 contingency was included in case plywood beneath the shingles needs to be replaced.

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Contractor Mavo Systems will remove asbestos from the building. The project was not included in the 2012 budget and will be paid using the city’s general fund. Once the repairs are made, the building will be put back on the market for sale, Parks and Recreation Director Randy Distad said. Previously when it was on the market, the city received a purchase offer but rejected it after it was deemed too low. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

Education Community Ed classes Enrollment is open for the following classes offered by Farmington Community Education. Call (651) 460-3200 or visit www.farmingtonCE. com for more information. Sept. 5: The Hobbit (Youth Play), Great Photos Sept. 8: Fall Swimming Lessons (DMS) Sept. 10: Fall Session 1 Gymnastics, Music Academy Guitar and Violin Lessons Sept. 11: Healthy Heart Yoga, Tiger Sparkler Cheer Squad, Zumba Sept. 12: Fencing Sept. 13: Cheer America (MVE) Sept. 15: Self Defense and Safety Awareness (DMS), Introduction to Billiards Sept. 16: In the Field Photography

Sept. 17: iPad and Your Student, Music Academy Piano (ongoing enrollment), Music Academy Percussion Sept. 18: ACT Prep Class, iPhoto and your Mac Sept. 19: Fitness Yoga, Open Woodshop Sept. 20: Accessorize Any Outfit, Infant and Child CPR, Getting Started with iPad, Yoga Sculpt Sept. 22: Small Batch Preserves (KTM), Tiger Cheerleading Clinic (FHS) Sept. 24: The Beat Goes On (FES), Animal Hideouts (MVE), Explore German (BMS) Sept. 25: Explore German (DMS), Animal Hideouts (RVE), Fall Boot Camp Sept. 26: Animal Hideouts (NTE) Sept. 27: Animal Hideouts (FES), Animal Hideouts (ARE), Kung Fu–

Adult and Youth (DMS), Going Further with iPad (MVE), Raising Savvy Money Managers (KTM) Sept. 29: Positive Approach to Perimenopause (LSHS), Women, Weight and Hormones (LSHS), Advanced Billiards (FB) Oct. 1: Kung Fu–Youth (DMS)

Caregivers need respite Volunteers are needed to give family members of older adults a respite. Volunteers are needed four hours once a week or every other week. To volunteer or for more information, contact Barb Tiggemann at DARTS, (651) 450-1560 or barb. tiggemann@darts1.org, or visit www.darts1.org.

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Thisweekend Zoo bidding farewell to its dolphins Discovery Bay exhibit runs through Sept. 9 by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

The Minnesota Zoo is inviting the public to come and say goodbye to its dolphins, which will be on exhibit through Sept. 9. Regular dolphin training sessions will continue until the end of August, and from Sept. 1 to 9 the zoo is hosting a daily “Dolphin Open House” with special events for visitors. The zoo’s two Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, Allie and Semo, will be available for viewing in the Dolphin Stadium during the open house, and guests can get their pictures taken with an image of Allie or Semo superimposed on a green screen. There also will be a giant card for guests to sign and wish the dolphins safe travels. This fall, Allie and Semo will be moving to other accredited facilities, and joining larger social groups, to allow for major repairs to the zoo’s 15-year-old, saltwater-damaged Discovery Bay building. Repairs are expected to take at least a

File photo

The zoo’s two Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, Allie (above) and Semo, will be permanently relocated to other facilities next month to allow for major repairs to the zoo’s saltwater-damaged Discovery Bay building. year, during which time the dolphin tank will remain empty. Zoo officials have not

disclosed the specifics of where Allie and Semo will be moving, which is standard practice during trans-

portation of dolphins and other marine mammals to ensure the health and safety of the animals. After

Allie and Semo have been moved, the zoo plans to provide details and status updates to the public.

office, ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 982-2787.

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. Information: (651) 675-5500. Savage Art Studios, 4735 W. 123rd St., Suite 200, Savage, offers classes/workshops for all ages. Information: www. savageartstudios.com or (952) 895-0375. Soy candle making classes held weekly in Eagan near 55 and Yankee Doodle. Call Jamie at (651) 315-4849 for

The open house events next month will mark the end of the zoo’s popular dolphin program, which started in 1978, as Allie and Semo won’t be returning to the zoo after Discovery Bay reopens. According to Minnesota Zoo officials, dolphins typically live in social groups, and the Minnesota Zoo would need several dolphins to create this type of setting in Discovery Bay. There are not enough dolphins available from other institutions to create a new, cohesive social group. After repairs are completed at Discovery Bay, zoo officials say there will likely be a temporary exhibit of rays and fish until a larger exhibit can be funded and built. More about the dolphin open house events is at www.mnzoo.org. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek.

theater and arts calendar To submit items for the Arts Calendar, email: darcy. odden@ecm-inc.com. Comedy Todd Andrews with special guest Tom Baumgartner at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, and Saturday, Aug. 25, at MinneHAHA Comedy Club, 1583 E. First Ave., Shakopee (lower level of Dangerfield’s), (612) 860-9388, www.minnehahacomedyclub.com. Tickets: $13. Concerts Summer Salon chamber concert at 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25, at Presbyterian Church of the Apostles, 701 E. 130th St., Burnsville. Suggested donation: $20. Information: (952) 890-7877 or www. ChurchApostles.org. Break Even Band, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 25, The Black Stallion Saloon, 23385 Emery Ave., Hampton, (651) 437-6625. The Suburbs with Magnolias, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, Subway Music in the Zoo, Minnesota Zoo amphitheater, Apple Valley. Cost: $34. Tick-

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ets available at ticketmaster. com. Little Feat with Tom Fuller Band, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 2, Subway Music in the Zoo, Minnesota Zoo amphitheater, Apple Valley. Cost: $34. Tickets available at ticketmaster. com. Exhibits/art shows A botanical art exhibit by The Great River Chapter of Botanical Artists is on display through Sept. 16 at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Ave. Information: (952) 985-4640. Pilgrims and Passages, a joint exhibit featuring art by Anthony Donatelle and Jon Reischl, is on display through Sept. 8 in the gallery at Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. For more information, call (952) 895-4676 or visit www.burnsvillepac.com. Festivals/special events Burnsville Fire Muster runs Sept. 5-9. Information: w w w. b u r n s v i l l e f i r e m u s t e r. com/. Burnsville Convention &

Theater The Chameleon Theatre Circle and Segue Productions will present “Steel Kiss” at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7-8 and 2 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville. Tickets are $13 for adults and $10 for students, seniors and groups. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or by calling (952) 895-4680. The Chameleon Theatre Circle’s 13th annual New Play Festival will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Tickets are $20 for adults; $17 for students/seniors; $17 for groups of eight or more. Tickets are available at the box

Workshops/classes Allegro Choral Academy is currently accepting registrations for its 2012-13 season for students in second to eighth grade. Classes available in Rosemount and Lakeville. Early bird discount if registered before Aug. 24. Registration information: http://www.allegroca.org/ or nmarschall@allegroca.org. Adult painting open studio from 9 a.m. to noon the first and third Fridays of the month at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S. Fee is $5 per session. Information: (651) 675-5521. Music Together in the Valley offers classes for parents and their infant, toddler and preschool children in Rosemount, Farmington, Lakeville and Apple Valley. Information: www.musictogetherclasses. com or (651) 439-4219. The Eagan Art House offers classes for ages 4 through adult. Register now for fall classes. For a complete listing go to www.eaganarthouse.org or call (651) 675-5521.

dates and times. $10 per person. Presented by Making Scents in Minnesota. Country line dance classes held for intermediates Mondays 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Rambling River Center, 325 Oak St., Farmington, $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. Country line dance classes on Wednesdays at the Lakeville Senior Center, 20732 Holt Ave. Beginners, 9-10 a.m.; Intermediate, 10 a.m.noon. $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. The Lakeville Area Arts Center offers arts classes for all ages, www.lakevillemn.gov, (952) 985-4640.

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Visitors Bureau’s Canvas & Vines will be 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center. Includes wine, craft beer, food, art, music and a silent auction. Admission is $35. Guests must be 21 or older to attend. Call (952) 895-4690 for more information and to purchase tickets, or visit www.canvasandvines. com.

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Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

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Book sheds light on the lives of atheists family calendar ‘Atheist Voices of Minnesota’ features essays from four Dakota County residents

by Andrew Miller

Friday, Aug. 24 Outdoor movie, “Casablanca,” 7:30 p.m. seating, dusk showtime, part of Burnsville’s “Flicks on the Bricks” series at Nicollet Commons Park in the Heart of the City.

Sun Thisweek

A new book edited by Bill Lehto of Farmington seeks to dispel misconceptions about what he says is one of America’s most misunderstood groups of people. The book, “Atheist Voices of Minnesota,” is an anthology of personal stories from 36 Minnesota atheists. It’s set for release Aug. 28. The essays deal not so much with rationales for atheism – which, generally, is rejection of belief in God – as they deal with the experience of being an atheist. The writings are broken into sections including “Life as an Atheist,” “Coming Out as an Atheist” and “Letting Go of Faith.” “We really think it’s a good introduction to atheism – it’s not in attack mode, there’s not anti-religion rhetoric,” said Lehto. “We have a couple people who wrote about dealing with grief. One guy wrote about being an alcoholic and trying (Alcoholics Anonymous), but finding the ‘higher power’ didn’t work for him.” In addition to Lehto’s essay “Rough Sea,” the book features writing from three other Dakota County residents. Among the contributors are Jill Carlson of Burnsville, Todd Torkelson of Eagan, and Eric Jayne of Apple Valley.

Bill Lehto

There are also essays from high-profile Minnesota atheists such as Huffington Post blogger Chris Stedman and University of MinnesotaMorris biology professor PZ Myers, who’s billed as “the world’s most popular atheist blogger.” Jayne, a social worker who serves as associate president of the nonprofit Minnesota Atheists, said the book is the first of its

theater and arts briefs Harvest of Art exhibit starts Sept. 9 The Eagan Art House will hold its seventh annual Harvest of Art Community Art Exhibit Sept. 9 through Nov. 2. The exhibit opening will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 9, at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S. A variety of media will be on display, and pottery sale will be for sale. The exhibit will then be divided to go on display at various community locations including the Eagan Art House, Easter Lutheran Church, Ring Mountain Creamery, Dunn Bros. Coffee, and the Eagan Community Center. Additional information is available online at www.eaganarthouse.org. For more information, call (651) 675-5521.

Programs explore stories that shape state Highlights of the Dakota County Library’s fall programs of Minnesota history and stories include: Author and local organic farmer Atina Diffley will discuss her book, “Turn Here, Sweet Corn: Organic Farming Works,” which has been called a memoir, a class in organic farming, a lesson in entrepreneurship, a love story, and a legal thriller. Wednesday, Oct. 10, 7 to 8 p.m., Farmington Library, 508 Third Street, Farmington. News anchor and investigative reporter Don Shelby will discuss his career and current projects, including his book, “The Season Never Ends: Wins, Losses, and the Wisdom of the Court.” Saturday, Nov. 3, 11 a.m. to noon, Galaxie Library, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley. Local author Annie Wilder will discuss her book, “Spirits Out of Time,” where she reveals true family ghost stories. Thursday, Nov. 8, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Robert Trail Library, 14395 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount.

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

KARE-11 journalist Boyd Huppert will share some of his favorites from the “Land of 10,000 Stories” series. Saturday, Nov. 10, noon, Farmington Library, 508 Third St., Farmington. The free programs are offered through the Minnesota Mosaic cultural arts series. For more information and a list of programs being offered, visit www. dakotacounty.us/library and search Mosaic.

Fundraiser for Children’s Lighthouse “Musical Heart NotesTreasuring Children,” a musical fundraiser for Children’s Lighthouse of Minnesota, will be held from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Steeple Center, 14375 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. KSTP anchor Bill Lunn will emcee the event. Entertainment will include the Eagan Women of Note, singer/songwriter Dale O’Brien, Latino band Shandy Jimenez, Sawtooth Blue Grass Band, flamenco dancers Las Zapatistas and magician Darren Maar. The event will include door prizes and a drawing for a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. More information can be found at www.childrenslighthousemn.org.

Area residents perform in ‘The Music Man’ Apple Valley residents Kati Devitt and Atlee Jensen and Eagan residents Morgan Guinta and Tawny Greene are featured as members of the ensemble in the Eat Street Players’ production of “The Music Man” at the Howard Conn Fine Arts Center, 1900 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis. Performances are Aug. 26, 30, 31; Sept. 6-9, 14-15. For more information, visit www.eatstreetplayers.org.

kind – the first ever book of personal stories from atheists in any state in the country. “One of the most common misconceptions is that atheists are angry, immoral nihilists,” Jayne said. “This book will show that atheists are very thoughtful, moral people who have a deep concern about justice, happiness and well-being.” Lehto is releasing the book through his newly

created publishing house, Freethought House, in collaboration with Minnesota Atheists. After the publishing costs are covered, proceeds from sales of the book will be donated to Minnesota Atheists to help cover expenses for the group’s weekly “Atheists Talk” radio show on KTNF-AM 950, along with operating expenses such as speaker fees and volunteer outreach programs. “Atheist Voices of Minnesota” can be purchased from online booksellers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as at many local bookstores. More about the book is at MnAtheists.org. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek.

Saturday, Aug. 25 Kids & More Back-to-School Sale from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Ames Arena, 19900 Ipava Ave., Lakeville. Clothing from infant to adult, toys, books, home decor, sports equipment, and more. Free parking and admission. Drawing to win a prize package worth over $200 Saturday only. Information: http:// www.treasurehuntsales.com/. Tech Dump free electronic recycling from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway Eagan. All computers and electronic devices will be sanitized of personal information and data. Drop off location is at the parking lot; look for signs. Visit www.JobsFoundation.org or call (763) 432-3117 for information. Pet vaccination clinic from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Windmill Feed and Pet, 350 Main St., Elko New Market. Discounted fee. No appointment needed. Vaccinations, microchipping, heart-worm testing and more. Additional health care products available. Pets must be on leashes or in carriers. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Windmill Animal Rescue. Information: (952) 461-2765. Sunday, Aug. 26 Kids & More Back-to-School Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ames Arena, 19900 Ipava Ave., Lakeville. Discount Day, with many items half price. Information: http://www. treasurehuntsales.com/. 10th anniversary celebration for Arbors at Ridges and Ebenezer Child Care Center, 4 to 6:30 p.m., 13810 Community Drive, Burnsville. Free food, games for all ages, prizes and live Big Band entertainment. Information: (952) 898-8419. Tuesday, Aug. 28 Family Fun Tuesday – Pages of Music with Rolf and Carrie, 10 to 11 a.m. in the Sculpture Garden at Caponi Art Park, Eagan. $4 per person donation is suggested. Information: (651) 454-9412 or www.caponiartpark.org. Tuesday Evenings in the

Garden – Fairy Garden with Kathy Bonnett, 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the garden at UMore Park, 1605 160th St. W. (County Road 46), Rosemount. Create an adorable, mini fairy garden that can be used indoors or out. All supplies are included. Fee: $40. Questions or to register by phone, call University of Minnesota Extension: (651) 480-7700. Wednesday, Aug. 29 Eagan Market Fest, 4 to 8 p.m., Eagan Festival Grounds. Farmers market and bluegrass concert featuring The Barley Jacks along with free kids’ art, family games and more. Information: www.cityofeagan.com/marketfest or (651) 675-5500. Friday, Aug. 31 Blue Moon Walk, 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Ritter Farm Park, 19300 Ritter Trail, Lakeville. For all ages, families encouraged. Cost: $5 per person and/or $15 per family. Information: Lakeville Parks and Recreation, (952) 985-4600. Ongoing Firearm Safety Class will be offered at Rosemount Middle School, 3135 143rd St. W., Rosemount, Sept. 11, 18 , 25, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 29. Tentative range day: Oct. 27. Registration: 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 11. Minimum age is 11. Fee is $7.50. A legal guardian must accompany students for registration and stay for approximately the first hour of class, which begins at 7 p.m. No preregistration. Information: Mike Kottwitz, (952) 884-8001. Blood drives The American Red Cross will hold the following blood drives. Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767) or visit redcrossblood. org to make an appointment or for more information. • Aug. 24, noon to 5 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 7800 W. County Road 42, Apple Valley. • Aug. 24, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Westview Elementary School, 225 Garden View Drive, Apple Valley. • Aug. 27, noon to 5 p.m., Culver’s, 15225 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley. • Aug. 28, 8 a.m. to noon, Dakota County Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley. • Sept. 4, 12:30 to 6:30 p.m., Messiah Lutheran Church, 16725 Highview Ave., Lakeville.

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Mature Lifestyles

Photo submitted

Kevin Sweeney credits instructors like Harold Torrence (left) and Scott Gunderson for much of his success at Dakota County Technical College.

Lakeville man refuses to let paralysis keep him from living by Emily Hedges Special to Sun Thisweek

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Kevin Sweeney, 51, of Lakeville doesn’t think of himself as much different than the average person. Everyone has obstacles to overcome in life, and he is no exception. But most people would agree that his obstacles are anything but average. While volunteering at the Jaycees dunk tank during the 1996 Pan-O-Prog festival in Lakeville, Sweeney fell off the back and was paralyzed from the neck down. Suddenly, the auto mechanic, part-time VFW bartender, and avid softball player had to invent a whole new life. “With an obstacle you have to go over, around or through it,” he said. “You have to adapt to what you have to do and do it.” The first thing he put his mind to was regaining as much movement as possible. “They say that what feelings and movements you’ve got after one year is what you’ll have, but I disagree completely,” he said. Sweeney began to watch

people around him that could do things he wanted to do. “I studied babies and kids, how they learned to get up off the ground,” he said. “I observed others in their everyday activities they take for granted. Now I can move my hands and I have started walking with a walker some. I refused to let things stop me.” Sweeney is limited in his hand usage, but he has adaptive equipment that helps him hold a telephone and drive his van. He says that when he’s in his chair, he doesn’t feel disabled because he can go where he wants to. “I just always look on the high side of things. What other people are doing, to an extent, that’s what I want to do. I’ve been parasailing. I mow my own lawn. I do weed whipping and drive an adapted motorcycle. I never look back. I just keep looking forward.” The next challenge Sweeney took on was how to make a living. But the active people-person wasn’t interested in just busy work. “I wanted to find a posi-

tion in today’s society where I could fit in,” he said. “Sitting around stuffing envelopes isn’t my cup of tea.” Although Sweeney already held a bachelor’s degree in science from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, he felt he lacked the appropriate education and experience to land the one thing he now required – a desk job. He started to look around the area for educational possibilities. When he saw that Dakota County Technical College offered two-year degrees with evening and online courses, he knew it was just the program he was looking for. “This made it easy for someone like myself. I could do much of it online,” he said. Sweeney graduated with honors in May. He earned a management for technical professionals degree. He also earned an accounting clerk diploma and a quality improvement certificate. He estimates that he devoted 20 hours per week studying, spending about 80 percent of his time in the classroom and See sweeney, 13A

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

sweeney, from 12A 20 percent online. Now he hopes to find a new career, perhaps with a small business. “I can manage and organize. I have finesse with numbers. I just want to find a place that will give me a chance to show what I can do,” he said. Instructors like Harold Torrence, Scott Gunderson, Patti Wiegand and others at Dakota County Technical College certainly got the chance. “Regardless of any possible limitations, you can always see Kevin inspiring and motivating fellow students to move forward with their dream,” said Torrence. “He has the ability to build strong and lasting human relationships with a compassionate leadership style. His personal story is more than inspirational.” Sweeney found his instructors to be just as inspirational for him. “They gave me wonderful ideas, enthusiasm and confidence to continue learning. They sought out opportunities to help me and taught me how times are changing so I can adapt,” he said. One of Sweeney’s class projects was to give a speech to his classmates and he decided to give it on handicap awareness. But overall, he says he was the one who did the learning from his class-

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Kevin Sweeney graduated from Dakota County Technical College with honors. The 51-year-old Lakeville resident hopes to find a job working for a small business. mates, especially the foreign students. “Seeing how they adapted to the United States was amazing,” he said. “It was sort of the same thing I was doing – learning to function in a new culture.” Sweeney views his challenge in changing careers as a common one in today’s economic climate, especially for baby boomers and seniors. “My story is related to how all people have to change. Look at businesses that are closing, laying off, and downsizing. If you’re one of those workers, you’ll have to learn to do something else. This is where baby boomers are coming in. Companies are getting rid of older workers, so they have to go back to school to learn technology to get back up to

date.” Sweeney knows from experience that it can be daunting entering a classroom for the first time in decades, but he encourages other older students not to let it stop them. “Don’t be afraid to step in the limelight of school. Your brain can adapt and learn again,” he said. “Keep an open mind and look forward. If there is something you want to do, go for it.” Institutions like Dakota County Technical College make it easier than ever for older students to feel comfortable and get the education they need. For more information, call (651) 4238301, or go to www.dctc.edu. Emily Hedges is a freelance writer for Sun Thisweek.

�� District 194 School Board Proceedings

This is a summary of the Independent School District No.194 Regular School Board Meeting on Tues, July 10, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on t h e d i s t r i c t w e b s i t e a t www.isd194.k12.mn.us or District Office at 8670 210th Street W., Lakeville, MN 55044 The meeting was called to order at 7:02 p.m. followed by pledge of allegiance. All board members and administrators were present except Bob Erickson. Public Comment: Randy Pronschinske, 9885 Upper 173rd Ct, spoke regarding digital learning programs. Consent agenda items approved: minutes of the meeting on June 26; employment recommendations, leave requests and resignations; 2012-13 collective bargaining agreement with LASA as presented; payment of bills and claims subject to annual audit; authorization to release checks; new alt facilities projects at OHE and EVE as presented; non-public school transportation contract as presented; and donations. Reports presented: Summary of the Superintendent's evaluation that was held on June 26 was shared. Recommended actions approved: Annual memberships in MSHSL, Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce, and MSBA; and the Health & Safety budget. Adjournment at 7:24 p.m. ___________________________________ This is a summary of the Independent School District No. 194 Special Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, July 31, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on the district website at or 8670 210th www.isd194.k12.mn.us Street W., Lakeville, MN 55044 The meeting was called to order at 5:04 p.m. All board members, Superintendent Snyder, Mr. Massaros, Ms. Knudsen and Mr. Klett were present. Public comment: The Lions Club presented their donation of backpacks and school supplies for families in need. Discussion: Review summary of district-wide survey data; review community engagement survey data; board self-evaluation; and cabinet salaries/benefits 2012-13. Recommended actions approved: LSHS Girls' Tennis fieldtrip to Spooner, Wi from Aug 17-19; elementary handbook revision. Meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m. ___________________________________ This is a summary of the Independent School District No. 194 Special Board of Education Meeting on Wednesday, August 8, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on the district website at or 8670 210th www.isd194.k12.mn.us Street W., Lakeville, MN 55044 The meeting was called to order at 8:01 a.m. All board members except Jim Skelly and Roz Peterson were present. Superintendent Snyder, Mr. Massaros, and Ms. Ouillette were present. Recommended Action: Employment recommendation of Chris Endicott as CMS principal was approved unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 8:10 a.m. 3122732 8/24/12

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Farmington football has high expectations With several veterans back, Tigers expect to be contenders

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The buzz surrounding Farmington football was noticeable during the first week of practice. With a new section on the horizon and several veteran players back, the Tigers expect to be on the winning end of several games in 2012. On offense, quarterback Darren Beenken will start his third year behind center after throwing for 1,265 yards and nine touchdowns in 2011, along with running for 272 yards and two scores. He won the team’s Iron Man, a multi-event competition testing strength and speed, on the first day of practice. He’ll be handing off to a familiar tailback in Athen Ashton, who had 770 rushing yards and 201 receiving yards last season. Both have started since they were sophomores, when the team finished 1-8. Last year the Tigers improved to 3-6. This year Beenken and Ashton expect the next step to be huge. “We’re aiming high this year,” Beenken said. “When sections come around we’re going to be ready. That’s what we’re focused on. We’re sick of losing this year.” “This is our year,” Ashton said. The offensive line is also loaded with Josh Boat-

wright, Ryan Gowen, and David Silber all back to open running lanes for Ashton and keep Beenken upright. Newcomers Josh Patterson, Nate Retterath and Alex Witkowski hope to help push Missota Conference defensive lines around in 2012. Beenken’s top three receivers from last year have graduated, but John Dittman and MacKinley Bassett caught a few passes last season and C.J. Wynings is back at tight end. After a week of practice, the Farmington offense has been impressed with Tiger defense. “They’ve gotten a lot faster,” Ashton said. “They’re probably the fastest defense we’ve faced the past couple years. They’re looking really good.” There’s plenty of experience at cornerback and safety, with three-year starter Alex Chadwick returning, along with Jack Erickson and Kevin Clifton. A linebacker core of Mason Auge and Godfrey Mpetey has some reinforcement in the form of linebacker/kicker Reid Taubenheim. “He looks great out there,” Ashton said of Taubenheim. “He worked really hard in the off-season. As he goes, so goes the defense.”

Photo by Andy Rogers

The Farmington football team practices Monday afternoon. Returning starters for the Tigers include quarterback Darren Beenken and leading rusher Athen Ashton.

Photo by Andy Rogers

Expectations are high for the Farmington football players who started practice last week in anticipation of the 2012 season. Defensive linemates Denver Robinson and Tom Sell are also hoping to help push

the Tigers back into contention. While they’re still a few

months away, playoffs will be a whole different story in 2012.

The Tigers will leave Section 1-5A and enter Section 3-5A on Oct. 23 along with an unfamiliar cast of opponents such as Apple Valley, Minneapolis Southwest, St. Louis Park, Bloomington Jefferson and Bloomington Kennedy. “We’ve got to focus on the Missota for now,” head coach Mark Froehling said. “We don’t have any experience with that group. Only time will tell. It’s exciting to be new. We’re looking forward to that. We’ve got a lot of games to go before that.” The Minnesota State High School League established a new 6A class for this year, moving teams from Lakeville and other larger schools up a bracket. Minneapolis Southwest is the only team in Farmington’s section with a winning record over the last five years, although the competition each team faces varies. The Tigers open the season with a home game at 7 p.m. Aug. 31 against Rochester Mayo. The “Tractor Trophy” will be up for grabs on Sept. 7 when Farmington pays Northfield a visit. The team’s homecoming game is scheduled for Oct. 5 against Chanhassen. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Panthers aiming for an even better 2012 Season opens on Thursday against Lakeville South

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The Lakeville North football team is coming off one of its best seasons ever, but the Panthers hope to top it this fall. North was one of the top teams in the state in 2011, earning the South Suburban Conference and the Section 1-5A titles while winning 10 consecutive games. A swarming, opportunistic defense was a big reason for the success. The Panthers allowed an average of 12.1 points per game last season. The good news for Panther fans and bad news for anyone else is the defense is still stacked with most of its starters back. Mitch Johnson, who led the team in tackles, has suited up again at linebacker along with Alex Wood, Josh Robinson and Alec Larson. Sacks leader Karl Finkel anchors a stout defensive line with Charlie Peters and Greg Menard Jr. In the secondary, Kyrell Newell, Zach Creighton and Grant Erickson were

Photo by Andy Rogers

The Lakeville North football team takes part in a rowdy practice Monday afternoon. Most of the Panthers’ defense returns to action for 2012. stalwarts on an alreadystrong defense. As good as they were in 2011, the defensive players said they can be even better this season. “We’re a step ahead,” Wood said. “We were able to put everything in right away. We already know the base defense, we’re just putting the toppings on right now.” So how do they improve

Photo by Andy Rogers

on last year, where most of The Lakeville North football team opens the season with a highly anticipated matchup at the same guys held teams to Lakeville South on Thursday. less than two touchdowns a game? “We want to take the averaged about 30 points a starter.” “We always want to im- ball back and put it with the game last season. The new quarterback prove,” Johnson said. “We offense,” Peters said. “The defense often has isn’t new to the Panthers’ want a few more turnovers.” The offense took a blow the upper hand in early starting lineup. Creighton, While the offense might during graduation last practice, but it’s been nice one of last year’s defensive not have as much experi- spring with quarterback to see our offense step up,” standouts, takes over under ence returning, the defense Trey Heid, receivers Joel head coach Brian Vossen center. It’s something he’s figures it can help by forc- Oxton and Charlie Hayes, said. “We have some really been anxiously awaiting for ing turnovers and putting and offensive lineman A.J. great runners and the quar- years. the offense in good field po- Miller moving on. North terback has been a two-year See panthers, 15A sition.

Lakeville South football reloads for 2012 Despite graduation losses, Cougars expect to contend by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

Since Lakeville South High School opened, the football team has never really had a down season. The Cougars have never finished below .500 and they contend for a top spot in the conference annually. Lakeville South was senior-strong in 2011, meaning the 2012 version will have several new starters. But the players’ goals haven’t changed. This isn’t the first season the Cougars have experienced high turnover. “Everyone is expecting us to have a rebuilding year, but we’ve had so many kids step up and come together and work their tails off,” offensive lineman Matt Photo by Andy Rogers Leidner said. “I played with The Lakeville South football team practiced Monday in these guys last year. I think preparation for the 2012 season. The team opens play on we’ll be just as good, if not Thursday when crosstown rival Lakeville North visits for a better.” The 2012 version of the 7 p.m. kickoff. Cougars is filled with new-

comers on offense who have been preparing for varsity for years. “We have a lot of fast kids – a lot of strong kids,” senior captain Austin Britnell said. “Last year we had a lot of talent. Our talent and skill level may not be as good, but we’re faster. We’re one big family.” They have a few familiar numbers. One of their top rushers, Britnell, has put the helmet back on along with the speedy J.J. Johnson. “We have to be a way better running team than we were last year,” head coach Larry Thompson said. “We’ve got some real good backs. If we can control the ball on the ground, we’ll be all right. We’re not going to be as great of a passing team. We’re just not as skilled there, but we have some real good football players. They’re warriors.” In the first week of practice, senior Phil Rholl was

competing for the quarterback spot with junior Branden Ordorff and sophomore Brenon Larson-Gulsvig. “The bottom line is, who doesn’t screw up and throw it to the other team” likely will win the job, Thompson said. Several offensive linemen are back in the trenches, including Leidner at center. Travis Soleta is another returnee. “Our offensive line will be fine,” Thompson said. “We’ve got a couple other guys who are really coming through.” Nearly everyone who caught a pass last season has graduated, but the Cougars believe they have replacements ready. “The offense looks really fast,” Britnell said, “We don’t make very many errors so far in practice. It’s pretty perfect. We have pretty smart kids on that side.” Thompson was excited

about tight end Tyler Lattery’s early practices. “He’s as good as they come,” the coach said. With help from wide receiver Mark Ruhl, Lattery should help keep the offense moving. On defense, the Cougars have a veteran in each unit. Tommy Petersen will anchor the defensive line as one of the top athletes at Lakeville South. Last winter he was a state individual wrestling champion at 195 pounds. He’ll join another playmaker, Zach Richter, on the defensive line along with newcomers John Novaes, Alonte Alexander and Ben Geary. At linebacker, Kyle Fatturi is a “flat-out playmaker,” according to Thompson. Fatturi leads the unit with newcomers Josh Corcoran and A.J. Westrude also expected to play. See cougars, 15A

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

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cougars, from 14A Defensive backs Ross Curran and Grant Seger return, and Chris Garcia also will see playing time. The Cougars have extra motivation heading into the season. The defense will be without Dillon Borowicz, who broke his neck over the summer in a pool accident. His teammates will wear his number (74) on their helmets. “It’s a really sad deal,” Thompson said. “It’s something we always tell our players, if you think you’re hot or you’re tired, just think of him. He’d love to be out here running, so be happy you’re doing it.” The Cougars will open the season on Thursday with a highly anticipated game against Lakeville North, last year’s South Suburban Conference champion, a state playoff qualifier and the Cougars’ closest rival. “As a team we’re not scared of anybody,” Leidner said. “North is the Super

panthers, from 14A “I’ve been working with (offensive coach Bob) Kovich since eighth grade,” Creighton said. “I’m very comfortable. I feel like I’m ready.” One thing that he hopes to use to his advantage is reading defenses after playing defensive back for years. “It gives me a step ahead when I know what the other guys are going to do,” Creighton said. Brandon Morgan, North’s leading rusher from 2011, is back along with wide receiver/tight end Ben Blake.

Photo by Andy Rogers

The Lakeville South football team has a number of returning starters on defense as well as its leading rusher last season, Austin Britnell. Bowl for us. I’m ready to Thompson said. “That’s play. I’ve been playing with frustrating, but the bottom those kids since third grade. line is we need to be a better Some of them are my best team at the end than at the friends. I can’t wait.” beginning. We need to get The game is scheduled our quarterback some expeto begin at 7 p.m. Following rience.” Thursday night’s matchup is The homecoming game is a trip to Prior Lake, another scheduled for Oct. 5 against 2011 state playoff team, on Rosemount. Sept. 7. Lakeville South plays a non-conference Andy Rogers can be reached game at Edina on Sept. 14. at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. “Our schedule is really com or facebook.com/sunheavy-loaded on the front,” thisweek. “We’re acclimated to the speed and the mindset of where we need to be,” Blake said. “We look pretty quick out there. It doesn’t hurt that we’re going against what I think is the best defense in the state every day in practice.” Offensive linemen Zach Zeimer and Zack Blake hope to create a wall in front of Creighton to help ease him in. “We have a bigger and stronger offensive line than we’ve had in the past,” Vossen said. With all those returning players from a team that

won the South Suburban Conference, expectations are high. “If we don’t end this season with a win we’re going to be disappointed,” Creighton said. The Panthers kick off the season at Lakeville South at 7 p.m. Thursday. The home opener is Sept. 7 when Bloomington Kennedy comes to town. Homecoming is scheduled for Sept. 28 against Prior Lake.

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

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

roundabout, from 1A Two additional components of the project will bring the projected cost to about $6.5 million: Expansion of County Road 50 to a four-lane highway from County Road 60 to Jurel Way and County Road 60 to four lanes from County Road 50 to Orchard Trail, according to the city. The reason for the cost difference between intersection types is a matter of the scope of each option. “You have to buy a lot of land and build a full signal system,” Mielke said about the non-roundabout option. The cost obligations would be 55 percent Dakota County and 45 percent Lakeville, with the federal government offering grant money. The county said there are a number of reasons a roundabout works better than simply adding additional lanes: • A decrease in vehicle delay time at the intersection; • Lower vehicle speeds, resulting in less severe crashes and increased pe-

destrian safety; • Long-term overall reduction of crashes; • Lower vehicle operating costs and lower construction costs; and • A decrease in right-ofway impacts. Construction is expected to start sometime in spring to fall 2014. Design, public outreach and engineering began in late 2011 and will persist through summer 2013, according to the county.

Concern Residents along County Road 50, in addition to officials at Kenwood Trail Middle School, are concerned about access issues. Bob Erickson, on behalf of those living along the road, said during the public comment portion of the Aug. 20 meeting that when traffic backs up now it is bad enough, but what about when motorists have to confront a roundabout? Erickson pointed out gaps in traffic – those points between red lights when traffic is flowing enough to allow cars in and out of driveways and roads that pour out onto County Road 50.

“They are concerned about safely getting out of their neighborhoods between 7-9 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.,” said Erickson, a current District 194 school board member and former resident of the Jaguar Path neighborhood, which is located down the street from the intersection. The county has indicated that gaps and access would not be a problem, but Erickson said he has not read a study that supports that. He did praise the lane expansion plans. A few years ago, Richfield installed a multilane roundabout that Lakeville’s would resemble in terms of the traffic counts and general design. Concerns at the time were similar to those Erickson expressed, Mielke said. After time, he said, it became evident there were no problems with gaps and access.

Future According to the county, traffic at the 50-60 intersection is expected to nearly double over the next couple decades. Status quo would push it over capacity, creating

an “unacceptable level of service.” The council voted Aug. 20 to table a vote two weeks on a revised JPA between the county and the city because the council “asked me to have conversations with the county to verify county’s commitment to project and process,” Mielke said. This includes confirmations about the ease of access for intersecting roads on County Road 50. But there is also future growth to consider along the whole stretch of the corridor (and not just that particular intersection). The roundabout project is expected improve traffic conditions now and pave the way for some room to grow, but that thoroughfare will only become busier as Lakeville develops. Unlike Richfield, Lakeville is not built-out. The council asked Mielke to talk with the county to pursue a corridor study of the area. This three- to fourmonth, $100,000 process would gather enough data to help the organizations plan for the needs of the corridor. It would be paid for 55 percent by the

county and 45 percent by the city. “The study is going to proceed, but we don’t have a time line for it initially,” he said. The city would then pass the study along to the county and School District 194. A corridor study would, among other things, look at future traffic signal needs. Right now, Mielke said, there is a nearly two-mile stretch of County Road 50 that has no signal. “It’s very likely there will need to be another traffic control device on that stretch of road in the future,” he said. Though the federal grant funds for the project are slated for 2013, Mielke said a delay in the project should not put those funds in jeopardy. For more information, check out the project’s website at http:// www.50and60.com/. Aaron Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Lawyers debate if drug evidence ruined for retesting by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Witnesses were to testify this week that drug evidence handling at the St. Paul Police Department Crime Lab was so poor that retesting cannot rectify damage done, according to public defenders Lauri Traub and Christine Funk in an Aug. 16 summary of witness testimony they expected to present. Wednesday’s hearing was to continue three days of testimony that began last month and revealed multiple problems at the lab including lax standards, improper testing procedures, failures to maintain equipment and an under-trained workforce. Phil Prokopowicz, Dakota County Attorney’s Office chief deputy, asked a judge on Tuesday for an immediate end to the court hearing that has raised questions about the reliability of evidence tested in the county’s drug cases. Referring to the process as a “fishing expedition” by Traub and Funk, Prokopowicz told Judge Kathryn Davis Messerich the hearing is a waste of time and resources. A week after that hearing started, Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom and prosecutors in Ramsey and Washington counties began sending drug evidence first tested at the crime lab to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for retesting in an effort to continue prosecutions. “To allow the pretrial evidentiary hearing to proceed in its current form is to allow defense counsel to engage in nothing more than a ‘fishing expedition’ with the potential for vo-

luminous irrelevant information to be presented that has no bearing on the issues related to tampering or contamination of evidence in this case,” Prokopowicz wrote in an Aug. 21 letter to the judge. Testimony in the hearing has prompted numerous changes at the highest levels of the crime lab and vows from St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and Police Chief Tom Smith that improvements and changes were coming. Since the hearing, Sgt. Shay Shackle has been replaced as head of the lab, all drug testing has ended there and Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties are retesting drug evidence at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s certified crime lab. St. Paul Police announced Monday it would hire two independent experts to review lab operations and drug evidence handling. Backstrom and Washington and Ramsey county attorneys requested to meet with Smith on Tuesday to have input into the scope and nature of the review, according to a joint Aug. 8 letter from the prosecutors to the chief. “We are particularly interested in learning how that review will address past controlled substance criminal cases in which drug samples were tested by the SPPD Crime Lab,” they state. “The results of this review will be critical to our ability to appropriately calibrate our responses to any past cases in a manner that furthers both justice and public confidence in our criminal justice system.” Howie Padilla, St. Paul Police spokesman, said they will announce the

two consultants hired to conduct the review once the contracts are signed. “We want someone who has got a wealth of experience in working with crime labs,” Padilla said, “and can help us identify what training we have and what we don’t have, and how we can supplement that training.” Asked how procedures and training at the lab had gotten to this point, Padilla said “that’s the question everybody wants to know.” He expected the administrative review would help find those answers. According to court documents filed Aug. 16, the hearing may reveal additional problems at the lab, as testimony was expected to detail contamination issues at the lab and why those issues are not alleviated by sending evidence to another lab for testing. St. Paul Police Officer Jamison Sipes was to testify that drug evidence was left in unsecured hallways, which concerned him. Witnesses were to testify that drug evidence was stored, transported and stacked together without ensuring each was kept in secure packaging and would not be in contact with other drug evidence. Glenn Harden, former BCA Forensic Lab supervisor, who was expected to testify that the lab never performed a validation study or testing to verify if the cleaning methods they employed were effective or ensure work surfaces were clean and free of drug residue before additional tests were performed. In the summary document, Traub stated Harden is saying it is “simply unknown what is and

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what is not contaminated because of the poor record keeping and the lack of standard operating procedures in the SPPDCL.” Prokopowicz challenged that assertion in his letter. He said there has been no evidence of actual contamination of items and substances that were submitted to the BCA for retesting. He added that the state acknowledges testimony that indicated the presence of contamination in samples subjected to gas chromatography testing performed by the crime lab. He stated those samples and solutions were not submitted to the BCA for retesting. Prokopowicz wrote the prosecution must prove that it is reasonably possible that tampering or contamination did not occur, and repeatedly called for the evidence to be reviewed and presented in individual trials “where they will be fully addressed.” Traub declined comment about the issue. Laura Adelmann is at laura.adelmann@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

crime lab, from 1A dence tested at the St. Paul crime lab is at all reliable in multiple drug cases. The Dakota County Drug Task Force has used the St. Paul crime lab for testing for the past decade, according to Backstrom. Traub successfully argued on Wednesday that hearing each case multiple times would be less efficient than hearing all seven of the cases at once. She also said if the court ends the Frye-Mack hearing, the public defender’s office would be depleted of funds to bring in experts to testify, and they would have to go to the county taxpayers to continue funding the case. Messerich expressed concern that her eventual ruling in the hearing could bind future judges to it in other cases. She decided to continue the hearing, but focused the remainder of the testimony on whether evidence tested

by the St. Paul crime lab has remained uncontaminated enough to be retested by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s crime lab. Prokopowicz said he has received one test back from the retesting at the BCA that verified the St. Paul crime lab’s original finding of heroin. He said the county has not received the results of any other evidence to be retested. Roberta DeCrans, a criminalist at the St. Paul crime lab, testified Wednesday regarding procedures she employed to test drug evidence against John Thomas Peters, 21, one of the seven cases included for review in the hearing process. Her testimony is scheduled to continue Friday. Watch the Sun Thisweek website, www.sunthisweek. com for updates. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Colonoscopy Classic slated Sept. 7 Tee One Up for Jack – The Colonoscopy Classic in memory of Jack Sprague will be held Friday, Sept. 7, at Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville. Sprague passed away from colon cancer last year. The tournament is an 18hole, four-person scramble with games and contests featured on a number of holes. The $100 registration fee includes a round of golf,

shared cart and dinner. The shotgun start is at 12:30 p.m., with dinner and a silent auction/raffle at 6 p.m. Proceeds from the golf tournament will support research at Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota and cancer care at HealthEast Care Center. For more information or to register for the tournament, visit www.cancerbenefitfund. org.

candidates, from 1A mission. Council terms are four years. In the mayoral race, there are three candidates. In June, incumbent Mayor Mark Bellows announced that he would run for another term. Before his election to his first mayoral term in 2010, Bellows served for 10 years as a council member. Bellows is the pastor at Hope Community Church in Lakeville and is a chaplain for the Lakeville Police Department. Matt Little, first elected to the City Council in 2010, announced his run for mayor in November 2011. Little is currently studying law at the University of Minnesota. He helped start the Lakeville Resource Center, a local food shelf. Council Member Laurie Rieb announced this month her run for mayor, instead of pursuing another term on the council. She has held her seat since her election in 2000. Rieb is the development director for 360 Communities. A mayoral term in Lakeville is two years.

School Board There are six candidates vying for three open seats on the Lakeville

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville August 24, 2012

ber of Commerce. Harmening currently is the executive director for MedNet of Minnesota, a medical device association. She also serves on the board of directors and executive committee for Daystar U.S., a national organization that provides funding and services for Daystar University in Nairobi, Kenya. Judy Keliher, the board’s longtime chair, began her tenure on the board in July 1997. The Lakeville resident is district sales manager for Staples Advantage and owned and operated a family hardware business for more than 25 years. Terry Lind of Lakeville worked in Lakeville schools for more than 40 years before retiring as principal of Lakeview Elementary School in 2011. Outside of the school, Lind has served as director of education and as president of the church council at Family of Christ Lutheran Church. Board Member Kathy Lewis, who has had her seat since July 1986, announced her retirement this month. The election is Tuesday, Nov. 6.

School Board. Bader A. Alossaimi of Credit River Township has lived in the district since 1995. The engineering consultant helps companies design machines that manufacture a number of products. In his 30 years in engineering, Alossaimi has served a number of management and coordination roles for clients, in addition to helping them with designs. Lakeville resident Lori Amborn is currently employed at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare and Fairview Ridges Hospital as a clinical pharmacist. She has also been a pharmacy manager for Regions Hospital. Outside of work, Amborn has been a den leader for Cub Scout Pack 263 and a volunteer photographer for several sports programs. Incumbent Bob Erickson, the board’s treasurer, was first elected to his seat in 2008. He is running for re-election for the first time. Erickson, a Lakeville resident, is a retired Lakeville city administrator and currently works for Welsh Companies. Jennifer Harmening of Burnsville, is a former president of the Crystal Lake PTO and a former president of the Dakota County Regional Cham-

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

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August 24, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Legion, from 1A relied on their own efforts rather than someone else’s after twice losing retirement money in the stock market. A Navy veteran, Loeschke said he also likes the fact that they were also able to help the Legion survive. “I’m keeping them in the pull tab booth, so they can still sell pull tabs,” he said. “They can keep their meetings and all their stuff is still there. We just want to take over the business in the kitchen, so we can take that burden off their hands.” Although the couple never owned a restaurant before, Loeschke said he

is relying on his history of broad experience that includes cooking, bar security, billing clerk and commercial heating and refrigeration. “All that stuff relates to what I’m doing now,” Loeschke said. They have plans to take down an interior wall to make the bar bigger and move the dance floor to a larger space. “When we put a band in there, people are dancing right in front of the singer,” Loeschke said. “So we want to make the dance floor bigger.” The dance floor will be transformed into a gaming area, and they eventually want to add more windows to show off the amenities

patrons sometimes forget are there because they can’t see them, like the volleyball courts, gazebo, and temporary bar tucked into a shed. The couple have made a long-term commitment to Tailgaters and have family members helping out. They hope their youngest son will one day take over daily operations so they can retire in about 15 years. “It’s really busy,” Loeschke said. “But I want to build that place up and put it in the black … hopefully everything works out as we have planned.” Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

English Channel fundraiser this Saturday Lakeville resident and Army veteran Darren Campion, who suffered stroke and paralysis after being mugged in 1999, will be swimming across the English Channel next week.

To help raise funds for this and for benefiting organizations, Campion is holding a pig roast at Lakeville Family Bowl at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 25. The cost is $10, which

includes pulled pork, beer and the opportunity to participate in a bowling competition.