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September 7, 2012 | Volume 33 | Number 28

Two Farmington fires, one house destroyed by Laura Adelmann

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Farmington | Lakeville

Two house fires in Farmington during Labor Day weekend left one home destroyed and the other with limited exterior damage. A 2-year-old home at 18524 Dunbury Knoll valued at $251,000 is a total loss after fire apparently started outside and spread rapidly to the interior Monday night, Farmington Fire Marshal John Powers said. There were no injuries related to the fire; homeowner Jaysen T. Smith was there alone when it was reported at 11:20 p.m. and escaped unharmed. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but Powers said it appears to have started on the deck and quickly moved to the interior. Farmington Fire Chief

Tim Pietsch said the home’s vinyl siding burned quickly, melting to become “like gasoline” on the blaze that firefighters fought for six hours. The 2,250-square-foot former builder’s model home was completely gutted and is surrounded by police caution tape. From the street, the home appears to have sustained significant damage to the upper level next to the garage. The upper level is completely blackened. The significance of the damage is apparent at the back of the house. The building is completely gutted, roof to floor collapsed from the center. Burned bed springs and a scorched dresser lay among the pile of fallen debris and See fires, 9A

Photo by Laura Adelmann

Fire gutted a two-story home on Dunbury Knoll in Farmington on Monday night. Farmington Fire Marshal John Powers said the 2-year-old house was a total loss.

Child care provider drops license suspension appeal

First-day greetings Art festival is ‘TENacious’

Dakota County considering charges against Farmington woman

The Lakeville Art Festival is marking its 10th anniversary Sept. 15-16 with a weekend of art exhibits and handson activities. Page 10A

by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

sports

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Cherry View Elementary kindergarten teacher Tisha Dixon introduces herself to her students on the first day of school. Dixon played an introduction song to break the ice to introduce themselves to their fellow students. More photos from the first day of school are at SunThisweek.com.

Panthers claw back in opener The Lakeville North football team kicked off the season with a huge win over its crosstown rivals. Page 14A

Farmington child care provider Rebecca Graupmann has withdrawn her appeal of the license suspension immediately instituted against her business Aug. 1 after a 3-month-old boy died while in her care July 31. An immediate temporary suspension is ordered when there is imminent risk of harm to children and remains in effect while a final sanction is determined, according to the state Human Services Department. Under state law, Graupmann, had five days to file an appeal of the temporary suspension, and an administrative hearing was set for Aug. 5 to review her request.

The hearing was cancelled after Graupmann dropped her appeal of the license suspension. Graupmann’s attorney Ryan Pacyga, said Graupmann has decided to end her 15-year career in child care after “a lot of soul searching” because she is “devastated” about the tragedy. “It just breaks her heart too much to think about going back now,” Pacyga said, adding that caring for children is Graupmann’s passion, but she would feel as if she was walking on egg shells if she re-opened her child care business. Graupmann was licensed to care for 12 children; the See daycare, 9A

County to keep using BCA for testing Backstrom: News accounts have been misleading

by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

revealed the unaccredited lab lacked written scientific protocols, employed an under-trained workforce that did not maintain equipment or properly store and track evidence. The revelations came to light under the investigations and questioning of public defenders Lauri Traub and Christine Funk.

“There have been so many issues raised, and we really have to see what has been found to be a real issue and what has been exploited by the defense,” said Dakota County Drug Task Force Cmdr. Dan Bianconi. He said county officials have determined the county will use scientifically

accredited labs for all evidence testing in the future. Accredited labs follow standard, written procedures performed by qualified, trained staff who use properly calibrated, maintained and validated testing equipment, employ specific proper sampling practices and scientific testing procedures.

Upon learning of problems at the St. Paul crime lab, Dakota County joined Ramsey and Washington counties in sending drug evidence to the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension crime lab. The accredited BCA lab has been retesting Dakota

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Dakota County officials are uncertain if they will ever again use the St. Paul Police Department crime lab for drug testing, which was just months ago used exclusively for those services. Days of courtroom testimony since July has

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Alossaimi calls for ‘engineering’ approach to policy

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Credit River man runs for District 194 School Board

by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

On most Saturdays, people can find engineering consultant Bader Alossaimi at the Heritage Library in Lakeville, as he sits in the reading area, taking in the latest issue of Barron’s or the Wall Street Journal. Financial responsibility is a theme for Alossaimi, an 18-year resident of Credit River Township. He has decided to run for a seat on the School Board after witnessing what he says is “too much turmoil.”

The closing of Crystal Lake Elementary, which is now the Crystal Lake Learning Center, rejected levy referendums and laid off teachers are among the sources of unrest Alossaimi cited. He said he wants to bring his innovative approaches to solving problems in business to the board to help the district get creative with addressing fiscal challenges. “Now is the opportunity to decide if you want to elect the same people or have new faces,” he said.

Instead of relying on referendums to increase taxes, Alossaimi said the district should get more creative with how it uses what it has. He proposes more cooperation with other school districts, such “coordinating purchasing and exchanging teachers temporarily.” The last part, he said, could prevent teachers Photo by Aaron Vehling from being laid off. “Every time you lay Bader Alossaimi of Credit River Township is running for people off and bring them a seat on the Lakeville Area School Board. He focuses on the need for business-like innovation to solve the district’s See Bader, 20A financial challenges.

September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Buttering up the Lakeville Dairy Princess

Photos by the Stiles family

Dakota County Dairy Princess and Princess Kay contestant Maggie Stiles, from Lakeville, had her likeness carved in butter at the Minnesota State Fair on Sept. 1.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

Farmington Council sets preliminary levy Sun Thisweek

Farmington City Council members passed a preliminary levy increase of 2.84 percent by a 3-2 vote Sept. 4. Council members Julie May and Jason Bartholomay cast the dissenting votes, with May stating the city budget could have been cut more, and Bartholomay citing concerns about the cost rising property taxes have on businesses. Proposed is a $8.8 million 2013 tax levy that will add $242,883 to the city budget. Complicating the discussion is that residential property values are declining faster than that for commercial properties. According to the city, the taxable value of the average home in 2012 was $165,480, and that is predicted to drop to $151,869 in 2013. The city portion of property taxes on that taxable value property is predicted to drop by about 23 cents. City Administrator David McKnight also presented a sample of eight actual Farmington residential properties with estimated changes that ranged from -$95.66 on their city portion of property taxes under the preliminary budget to an estimated increase of $21.87. Four commercial and industrial properties were shown to have dropping values but an estimated property tax increase of between 6 percent and 8 percent (between $235.45 to $754.67) based on the preliminary levy. McKnight’s estimate shows several $1 millionplus properties dropping in value by about $25,000 in 2013 and a $525,800 property value being cut by $11,400 or 2.21 percent in

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2013. Council Member Christy Jo Fogarty was critical of legislative changes to the state’s market value homestead credit, stating it creates a progressive property tax system that matches the state’s progressive income tax. “I’m frustrated over market value homestead credit and the way it affects our taxes,” Fogarty said calling the program a “disaster” that should be eliminated so the state can devise a formula that works equitably. May said no matter what it is called, the city’s conversation is still about whether to increase or decrease the levy. In the preliminary budget, two full-time positions are eliminated through attrition and two part-time positions are being cut, and a police department administrative supervisor will go from full- to part-time, saving the city about $242,000. In an interview, McKnight said enough council members have informed him between meetings that they had changed their minds about cutting pay for a school resource officer position, which he has kept in the budget. He said the issue was not discussed in an open meeting or budget workshop, but “there’s been some back-and-forth going on” between himself and council members about the issue, and they want to continue to talk about it before setting the final levy in December. During previous budget workshops, most council members had informally agreed they would not fund the school resource officer position, which was previously partially funded by the Farmington School District, but cut out of the district’s 2013-14 budget.

“We’re not done with this issue,” McKnight said, adding that the position may not remain a school resource officer. “We’ll see what happens, but it’s in there right now.” Bartholomay noted that the county said Farmington has the highest tax capacity rate of any city in Dakota County. He reported other cities’ tax capacity rates ranged from .31 percent to .47 percent, but Farmington’s tax capacity rate is .63 percent. The tax capacity rate is the rate needed from each property to collect the amount of dollars needed to operate the county, a municipality and schools, according to Dakota County. McKnight said his biggest concern about the 2013 budget was that the city’s general fund has dipped into negative status for four months every year since 2008. When the budget drops See levy, 6A

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Opinion

September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Lakeville man spends summer in the woods by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: Three men start in the forests of Alberta, Canada, and emerge three months and 1,900 miles later on the shores of Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba. In May, Lakeville native Jake Bendel, a senior at the University of Minnesota, joined two friends – Ryan Ritter of Owatonna and Adam Maxwell of Crystal Lake, Ill. – for exactly that expansive of an adventure. They tackled rainy days, whitewater rapids and black bear encounters to reach their goal. “There was some amazing scenery,” Bendel said. It all started for him when he heard of Maxwell’s similar adventure in 2011. “I was hearing about this trip all last summer,” said Bendel, a materials science and engineering major. “I was like ‘I’d love to do something like that.’ ” Bendel had experience with the outdoors. He had worked at Voyageur Canoe Outfitters in the Boundary Waters, where he had begun canoeing at 13 years old. The longest trip was a week long until he, Maxwell and Ritter embarked across Canada. When I spoke with him, Bendel discussed the huge undertaking with the kind of engaged nonchalance that only accomplished explorers can exhibit. But it was indeed a big deal, a journey without much contact with other people, no cell phones, no Internet and no movies or TV shows for most of the 85 nights. The sounds of wind through the trees, the flow of the water and the calls of birds were the most prominent soundtrack. Of those nights, Bendel said 81 were spent in ad hoc camping situations after days in which animals were more prominent than people. “I definitely like being in the woods,” he said. There were a couple nights of reprieve, though.

Sun Thisweek Columnist

Aaron Vehling

“We ended up meeting people a couple of the nights and staying at their houses,” Bendel said. Each man had his own boat (specifically, Bendel had a kayak). Their paddling covered the Athabasca, LaBiche, Beaver and Churchill rivers across three large provinces of western Canada. About all of that wildlife, Bendel said the variety was impressive. In Alberta, they saw big-horned sheep, mountain goats and elk. Along the way the three men encountered “about 40-some moose and 30-some black bears,” Bendel said. During the last few miles of their journey, seals, beluga whales and polar bears welcomed them. The whales were a highlight, Bendel said. The 16-foot-long, ivory-shaded mammals would swim around the men as they paddled their canoes and kayak in the vicinity of the Hudson Bay. “They definitely like boats,” Bendel said. “A dozen would follow you and rub up against your boat.” Preparations for the trip began in October 2011. Over the course of the subsequent months, the three men planned a route and assessed supply needs. They scanned and printed maps at the University of Minnesota. “It cost $60 to scan and copy (at the U of M), whereas it would have cost $1,000 to buy a set of maps,” Bendel said. Segments of their route were well-known and well-documented in some circles, but other segments required more research and careful planning, he said. Maxwell’s experience with these types of

Photo submitted

Jake Bendel, a Lakeville native attending the University of Minnesota, along with two friends, paddled nearly 2,000 miles across three Canadian provinces this past summer.

Despite encountering scores of wild animals, Bendel said the trip was largely a peaceful three months. There were some challenges, though. In a couple instances, the men encountered three straight days of rain. They paddled, ate and slept through a downpour. “Everything’s wet,” Bendel said. “You can’t do anything about it. It kind of sucks, but it’s definitely worth it.” The water would get aggressive at points. Unfortunately, there were no portage trails. In the Boundary Waters, there are often wellworn paths on which adventurers can carry a canoe on land to avoid prohibitive waters. But in these parts of Canada such things don’t exist. “You definitely are out in the woods now,” Bendel said. “It makes you think about how you to get down the rapids.” He was “90 percent confident” he could make it, but taking on rapids has its risks. “If you don’t make it, you lose your boat,” he said. Traversing the sparsely-populated Canadian frontier without the modern electronic appendages we take for granted seems risky, but the men had plans. They had a device that used GPS to tell others where they were (though it did not tell the men where they were.) The devices transmitted this data to a website so interested people could follow the journey in real-time. The personal locator beacon was a “lastditch” option. If they were profoundly lost and in trouble, the device would alert authorities to the whereabouts of Bendel, Ritter and Maxwell. Bendel said he would “definitely” do another extended outdoors trip. “A couple years ago I didn’t think I’d ever be on something like this,” he said, “but then you meet the right people and you really want to do it.”

trips came in handy, especially when it came to knowing what and how much to bring with them. “Especially with food,” Bendel said. They did not actually bring much. “We ended up getting a lot of our own food.” Maxwell gathered a sizeable amount of wild rice and apples. Bendel and Ritter were hunters, so they added venison to their subsistence. They wanted to do the entire trip on the cheap. Maxwell’s 2011 trip, from Grand Portage, Minn., to York Factory, Manitoba, on the Hudson Bay, required some flying, which was too expensive. So to get to Alberta they sought multiple forms of transportation. They drove from Duluth to Winnipeg, Manitoba. They left their car with friends and hopped a train to Jasper, Alberta, from where they would begin their adventure. Once they reached Churchill in August, Aaron Vehling can be reached at aaron.vethey were able to take a train back to Win- hling@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek. nipeg.

Letters The Truth has never changed To the editor: I think it’s easy to write a letter these days as long as it reflects what are considered Democrat or liberal ideals. Those of us who may see things from an opposing perspective, I feel, hesitate to write because as the letter goes into the mail box you can hear the countdown to the chants of racist, homophobe, bigot, zealot, hater or whatever the bogeyman du jour might be. The question always seems to be “How do you call yourself a Christian, Republican, conservative, man, father, American (fill in the blank) if you support a certain position?” My response to any and all of those questions is the same. Instead of letting Brian Williams, Chris Matthews, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity or anyone else tell me what to think, I study the argument. What I’ve discovered through study is, that yes, the current commercial supporting gay marriage correctly states that “The world has changed.” I’m happy to report, however, the truth never has. Not my truth, not your truth, not the president’s or the challenger’s, but “The Truth.” Others can try to rewrite history, but history and fact is what it is. I proudly call myself a Catholic, American, father, husband and conservative because I stand against the founding principles of Planned Parenthood (read Sanger).

I stand with the Americans that believe all life is sacred. I stand with the party that stood up for the civil rights for all Americans, born and unborn. I proudly stand with Americans who say there are winners and losers and it’s not our government’s job to pick ’em. Truth is a difficult thing to argue, but then again, it’s far easier to start the countdown. TIMOTHY DUECKER Lakeville

Cat owners beware To the editor: If someone recently lost a male orange tabby cat, it pains me to say that he has been found, but he will not be coming home. On Friday, Aug. 31, I was driving by the intersection of Hayes and Harrington in Lakeville. Up on the grass, by the stop sign, was a cat, flat on his side. His eyes were a little fixated open, but it didn’t seem that he was breathing. His body looked clean and fine. I talked to him, but no movement. I called animal control and she was quick on the spot. She determined he was recently deceased and then she made two other conclusions. One, he seemed to be a house cat (declawed), and then two, he appeared to have been hit by a car. I want to first and most importantly say how sorry I am for the loss. Growing up on a farm and also being an ardent animal lover, I hugged my cat a bit more that day

when I got home. However, I am distressed that I have to write this letter to hopefully find the owner and let them know what happened. The cat had no collar or microchip and seemed to be an outside cat. He also was declawed, which in and of itself would have shortened his life by years being an outside cat. If he was an outside cat, the owner may have loved the cat, but not enough. He deserved more than he was given. I am asking the owner reconsider having a pet, as this obviously is not in their skill set. Again, sorry for your loss. The animal control officer took a picture. I am not sure how long they will keep him, but the cat will be cremated at some point. I hope mer that our daughter could the owner has the chance to have up to 37 students in her say goodbye. fourth-grade class, we pulled our children out of public Darleen Komolo schools. Shame on the school Lakeville district for leaving teachers in a position where they would have to “try” to teach in the iPad spending midst of a chaotic classroom doesn’t add up of 37 students (by the way, To the editor: the classroom was maxed out When Lakeville residents with 28 students). decided not to vote for the Now even more disturbschools, I am sure they didn’t ing, the district buys 3,000 realize the direct impact that iPads one year later. I aswould have on their families. sure you $1.5 million spent We voted for the schools be- on teachers is a much better cause regardless if how the investment for students than district spends the money, we spending money on iPads want to have good schools that will be obsolete next for the students. Not only year. would children thrive but so If parents really feel they would home values. People need iPads in the classroom, desire to live in areas that the parents can buy iPads for have great schools and a their children to use. Those great community. We moved students who can’t buy iPads to Lakeville for its commu- can learn in the traditional nity, quaint downtown, and classroom. great schools. When we learned last sum- LISA MEYER Lakeville

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the most difficult times. That is why my vote for mayor is Matt Little. Little is a dedicated City Council member who I’ve come to greatly admire and respect. I first met Little because he spent his Saturdays waking up early and devoting his day to helping students, like myself, learn the valuable lessons of debate. The determination to give back to debate is revealing of Little’s character. He is a servant leader, one who devotes his time and passion to causes that better our community like debate, education and the safety of our residents. I got to know Little much better when we both became involved in the budget cuts Lakeville schools faced. Little was an innovative thinker and a strong advocate as we pushed for a solution that preserved our after-school programs. I know that Little’s leadership will yield fresh, creative, grounded ideas that will move Lakeville in the right direction. Little has inspired me to stay involved and give back to Lakeville. With his dedication to our community and his inclusion of younger people, like myself, Little is the candidate I will be supporting for mayor.

To the editor: Recently I had to decide whether to vote at college in Pennsylvania or at home in Lakeville. My decision was easy. I’ve come to love this community and know that if we elect good leadership, Dylan Slinger our town can flourish amidst Lakeville graduate 2011

Competitive edge dwindling To the editor: In response to guest columnist Dan Powers’ “Do Americans care enough to make a difference?” in the Aug. 31 Sun Thisweek, if you are a World War II veteran and a member of the “Greatest Generation” you question the current resolve of those who bought in to “hope and change.” Our education system is far behind those of other developed nations and it’s cheaper to ship the higher paying jobs overseas. As developing nations continue to close the gap, products will be more expensive to produce and we shall lose even more of what competitive edge we might have left. Finally, shareholders who depend on the success of their investments to survive an entitlement society are going to demand better products and cheaper prices. Paying workers not up to the skill level far more than those of other countries who do have the skills is a recipe for disaster. FRANKLIN WICKER Lakeville

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

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

Elementary class sizes lowered �� Farmington School District earns higher public-approval ratings by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

Two years and one district leadership change after public outcry against large class sizes, most Farmington School District elementary class sizes are at or below policy guidelines. School Board Chair Tera Lee says the numbers are impressive. “There’s a huge difference between two years ago and now,” said Lee, who pressed then-Superintendent Brad Meeks to reveal class size projections and advocated for reduction of those numbers in her 2010 campaign. “Then, eight classes were out of policy, and the district wouldn’t communicate with us,” she said. “Now, there’s only a couple grade levels out of policy district-wide, and we’ve been very proactive about communication.” Lee added the district is over policy by one or two students under the leadership of new Superintendent Jay Haugen instead of three-plus students over as in past years. According to the district, one fifth-grade class at Akin Road Elementary has 31 students, and three classes at Riverview Elementary’s third-grade have one or two students more than policy recommends. A few other classrooms in the district have higher class numbers, but they have been allocated additional staffing, making them in compliance with policy. The policy states administrators will consider adding staff for classes of

over 25 in K-2; 28 or more students in third and fourth grades and over 30 students in fifth grade. Although Riverview Elementary classes are over the recommended policy, its structure is different from other schools. One of the classes is designed to allow a class with multiple grades and teachers, under the direction of Principal Kim Grengs. There, 29 students in grades 1-3 learn together, according to the latest available district statistics. The district has allocated an extra teacher to help daily with third grade during the math hour. Lee said while she feels bad there are any classes that have any more students more than policy allows, she said: “That is so amazing compared to the history of it. … I’m just proud of the district.” School Board Member Julie Singewald also emphasized the importance of class sizes in the middle schools and at Farmington High School during an Aug. 13 board meeting. She questioned the board’s focus on elementary grades and said students should have all the tools they need to be successful after they step out of high school. Singewald said as the district employs its individualized learning plan utilizing iPads, in the future class size will not be as much of an issue. Board Member Tim Burke added that the state per-pupil payment for high school students is more than that for elementary students, and the district

has to be careful that money is not used to just subsidize elementary enrollment. District spokesman Jim Skelly said the district does not have class size limits for high school, in part because students are changing classes during the day. At that meeting, the board also reviewed survey results that shows public trust in Farmington public schools is growing. According to the survey, 66 percent of those polled rated the quality of the district’s schools as “good,” and 18 percent said the schools’ quality is “excellent.” Of those polled, 28 percent said a lack of funding was the district’s most serious issue. In 2007, 54 percent of those surveyed rated Farmington schools as “good” and 12 percent rated them excellent; lack of funding was also cited as the district’s most serious problem. According to the results 40 percent of those surveyed found the district’s quality over the past five years is either somewhat better or much better; 41 percent said its quality was about the same. Bill Morris, with Decision Resources said in general, the survey found people were more satisfied with the educational process than five years ago, and although “tax hostility” is “raging” it is not directed at the school, but the overall tax bill. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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Marriage amendment conversation Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville, and Minnesota Council of Churches will host “A Respectful Conversation on

the Marriage Amendment” from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, at Prince of Peace. The community is invited. Registration is required

by calling Prince of Peace, (952) 435-8102; Minnesota Council of Churches, (612) 230-3344; or online at www.mnchurches.org.

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September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Lakeville Seniors The Lakeville Senior Center is located at 20732 Holt Ave. Senior center inquiries can be directed to Linda Walter, senior coordinator, at (952) 985-4622 or lwalter@ lakevillemn.gov.

days beginning Sept. 14. Bring an exercise mat and a small blanket. A freewill donation of $1 to $3 per person per class will be used to purchase yoga props to be used during class. These props will be part of the fitness room Diner’s Club equipment in the new senior Both singles and couples center. Cost: One punch. are invited for a meal at Ernie’s in Burnsville on Sept. Harvest samples 13. Must be a current senior This Oct. 11 trip includes center member and pay a $5 a stop at the Yellowstone group registration fee in or- Cheese Factory and Store in der to participate. Meet at Cadott, Wis., and a horsethe restaurant at 5 p.m. Sign drawn wagon ride at Cabin up by Sept. 11. Ridge Rides followed by lunch. Then travel to the Yoga classes John McIlquham Orchard Yoga classes will be held and Autumn Harvest Winfrom 8:15 to 9:15 a.m. Fri- ery and the Jacob Leinenlevy, from 3A below revenues, the city cannot pay its bills from that fund and must draw from other funds. That issue is beginning to be addressed by establishing a budget document that better reflects actual expenses and income. All council members credited McKnight for delivering a budget that included realistic revenue numbers. McKnight also included $107,000 in the budget to cover human resource costs for compensatory time payout, health care savings plan contributions and other pay items that were previously excluded in the city’s bud-

get, but paid for each year. One of the most significant budget changes is the first payment of $120,000 for the new fire truck purchased this year. He also included in the preliminary budget $106,000 for vehicle and building repairs in the fire department budget. McKnight said he intends to discuss instituting a Capital Improvement Plan with the council next year. In 2011, the city was planning to implement a CIP to avoid repetitive bonding for predictable maintenance projects, but the costs ended up being prohibitive. This proposed budget includes $15,000 to be set aside for short- and long-

kugel Brewing Company in Chippewa Falls, Wis. Try out samples at each stop. Leave the Lakeville Senior Center at 7:45 a.m. and return at approximately 5:45 p.m. Cost is $57, payable by Sept. 20.

Singles group The Lakeville Single Seniors group holds monthly planning meetings on the third Friday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Must be a current senior center member and pay a $5 group registration fee in order to participate. The next outing will be lunch and walk bridge at Nicollet Island Inn on Saturday, Sept. 22. Leave the senior center at 11 a.m. term needs of city facilities. The budget also incorporates 1.75 percent cost-ofliving increases for two of the city’s four unions, and increases the city’s contribution toward employee benefits. There are two other union contracts remaining to be settled, as well as the non-union group of employees, which includes city department heads. State law requires cities to set a preliminary levy by Sept. 15. The levy amount can be reduced by the time a final levy is adopted in December, but it cannot be increased. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com

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Elko man pleads guilty to meeting teens for sex in Eagan by Jessica Harper Sun Thisweek

An Elko man plead guilty last week to prostitution charges after meeting two teenage girls for sex in Eagan. Mickey Albert Cupkie, 36, pleaded guilty in a Ramsey County court Aug. 31 to four counts of engaging in prostitution with a minor. Cupkie, who was charged June 21, admitted he used a smartphone while at work in St. Paul to look up the 16- and 17-year-old girls on Backpage.com, according to the criminal complaint. Explicit photos of both

girls were posted in the ad along with their cell phone numbers. Minneapolis police had been tracking the 16-yearold girl since May after suspecting the runaway was forced into prostitution. Once officers located the girls, both said they were forced into prostitution at an Eagan hotel. Using phone records and video surveillance, officers identified Cupkie as one of three men who paid the girls for sex May 9. Cupkie was arrested June 6 and allegedly admitted during an interview with police he paid the girls for sex.

He admitted to engaging in oral sex with the 16-yearold, but it is unclear whether he engaged in the same acts with the 17-year-old, according to the complaint. Cupkie confessed that the 17-year-old touched him sexually and was at least partially undressed, the complaint stated. He also said he felt the girls were “too young to be engaging in prostitution.” The Eagan incident is one of several connected to ads on Backpage.com, causing its owner, Village Voice Media, to come under fire from local authorities and advocacy groups. The Ramsey County At-

torney’s Office and victim advocates have called for the media company to close its adult-themed section. Village Voice Media, which also owns City Pages, told the Star Tribune in June it doesn’t intend to profit from prostitution and that it is working with local authorities to find “workable solutions.” Cupkie is scheduled to appear at a sentencing hearing at 1:30 p.m. Nov. 1. He faces up to 10 years in prison on each count. Jessica Harper is at jessica. harper@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Informed by experience Pat Hall’s been a pastor, teacher, businessman

by Tad Johnson Sun Thisweek

Pat Hall, the Republicanendorsed candidate in Senate District 57, said he was as surprised as anyone he was the GOP’s pick to run for the open seat held by Chris Gerlach for the past six Pat Hall years. Part of that surprise for the political newcomer might be because the Apple Valley resident says he won’t forget where he came from – a government-subsidized housing project in Minneapolis. Serving as a “voice for the impoverished” in the party not known for having such a voice, according to Hall, he became the delegates’ selection to run in the district that includes Rosemount, Apple Valley, a portion of Lakeville and Coates. “I am passionate about these things,” said Hall, who is running against former longtime Rosemount High School principal and DFL candidate Greg Clausen. “I’m not your typical Republican. I am a critical thinker. I think that’s what people want.” Hall says his broad range of experiences will help him connect with voters. “I am going to do the right thing,” Hall said. “I am delivering what I feel is a message that resonates with

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people about jobs, taxes and the economy.” The current pastor of Faith Covenant Church in Minneapolis is also a former small business owner, insurance agent, Rosemount police chaplain, banker and substitute teacher in public schools. He said it was commitment to education that elevated him and his family from poverty. “I’ve been in the hole and I know the way out,” said Hall, the brother of current Burnsville state Rep. Dan Hall. Pat remembers when his mother had to be hospitalized and that the family wouldn’t have been able to pay the bills if it wasn’t for the assistance the family received. Hall, who said he didn’t know he was poor as a child, talks about helping those who need it with a “hand up” instead of a “hand out.” “Education is a huge thing to me,” said Hall, who wants to create ways to increase parental involvement and tutoring for struggling students.

As a pastor at a church where about half of its members are in some kind of recovery program, he said he has seen the bad side of life. He’s advocated for people, helping them navigate the court system and understands the social services people use. He’s worked with reformed felons in helping them get a car and a job. He says he’s helped people who didn’t deserve to be in jail get out by working with law enforcement officials. Hall said he would like to see some of the social programs that operate based on income, rather be based on a timeline, so people can rebuild their lives. He said cutting people off assistance when they get a job and exceed a particular program’s income guideline does a disservice to them. Hall and his wife Debbie, who have three daughters and four grandchildren, have a long history in the area. He is a former pastor starting in 1991 of what was then known as St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rosemount. He recalls one of the largest events in the south

metro at the time was the church’s Celebration Athletic Games, which averaged about 1,500 participants annually. The all-sports clinic gave every child a chance to participate, no matter their financial state, and awarded them for their efforts. It’s events like this that Hall says helps build community. He hopes to bring that same kind of spirit to the state Capitol. When talking about the current polarized political climate, Hall illustrates what is happening by citing his work with struggling marriages when both people are pushing against each other. “The one who stops pushing first is the one who wins,” Hall said. Sun Thisweek has published a previous story on Clausen when he was endorsed by the district’s DFLers and its coverage of the primary election.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

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Tad Johnson is at tad.johnson@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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Credit River Township Continuation of Annual Meeting Meeting Notice This is a reminder that the Continuation of the Credit River Township Annual Meeting will be held on September 10, 2012 at 7PM. The meeting will be held at the Credit River Township Town Hall, located at 18985 Meadow View Blvd., Prior Lake, MN 55372. 3142430 9/7/12

�� District 194 School Board Proceedings

This is a summary of the Independent School District No.194 Regular School Board Meeting on Tues, August 14, 2012 with full text available for public inspection on the district website at www.isd194.k12.mn.us or District Office at 8670 210th Street W., Lakeville, MN 55044 The meeting was called to order at 8:02 p.m. followed by pledge of allegiance. All board members and administrators were present. Consent agenda items approved: minutes of the meetings on July 10, 31 and August 8; employment recommendations, leave requests and resignations; non-public school transportation contracts as presented; and donations. Consent agenda approved following discussion: payment of bills and claims subject to annual audit. Reports presented: 6th grade ELA resources; MCA report; district communication update; technology update; 2012-13 student enrollment update. Recommended actions approved: Resolution calling for election for board of education members; resolution approving Dakota County Intermediate School No. 917's Health and Safety Program budget; budget development process. Recommended action tabled: CLEC graphic display sign Adjournment at 10:59 p.m. ___________________________________ This is a summary of the Independent School District No. 194 Special Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, August 21, 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 7:07 p.m. All board members were present. Superintendent Snyder, Mr. Klett were present. Discussions held: Tax Levy/Refunding Opportunity; 2012-13 Board Goals. Meeting adjourned at 8:58 p.m. 3139302 9/7/12

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September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

fires, from 1A ashes in the gaping hole that was the home’s back walls and deck. A dresser precariously stood on the edge of the few feet that remained of a second-story bedroom floor. Powers said Tuesday the home’s remaining walls and roof could give in at any time, and he was not able to enter daycare, from 1A child care was immediately shut down following the death. Pacyga said the baby’s death was an accident. She had laid him on his back on an adult bed on the same floor as the kitchen, so she could keep a better eye on him as she was cleaning up after lunch. “There are reasons for what she did, and I think they’re legitimate reasons,” Pacyga said. “She had nothing but that baby’s care and safety in mind when she did that.” He said Graupmann checked on the baby at least once before returning to find him rolled over and not breathing. She immediately began resuscitation efforts and called 911, Pacyga said. Graupmann also cooperated with Farmington police, giving them several statements, but officers right away began “finger-pointing” and repeatedly told her they did not believe her, Pacyga said. “They were treating her like nobody wants to be treated,” Pacyga said, adding officers also warned Graupmann not to speak to the baby’s parents who are her neighbors. “She wants to reach out so bad, but law enforcement was intimidating about telling her not to talk to her neighbors,” Pacyga said. “Really, this is just tearing Rebecca up.

that area to investigate or retrieve anything. Thirty-nine Farmington firefighters worked the fire and Lakeville firefighters assisted. Another fire occurred Friday at 22480 Chippendale Avenue in Farmington, but the home’s damage was limited to the exterior, Powers said. He said all occupants were safely evacuated, including

two dogs. The fire was reported at 8:03 p.m. The blaze started on the deck by a carelessly discarded cigarette butt, Powers said. He added that the home had hardwood siding, and the fire never spread to the interior. The 18 Farmington firefighters who responded put it out within about an hour. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com

As a mom, she understands what parents would be going through in a situation like this, and her heart bleeds for them. She wants to be able to grieve with them.” Farmington police have not released details about the incident as it is still under investigation. Dakota County Attorney’s Office spokesperson Monica Jensen said the county has not decided whether to charge Graupmann with a crime. “We’ve been advised that it will take many weeks for an autopsy to be completed in connection with this infant’s death,” she said in an email. “Additional investigation may also be needed in the matter before any charging decision will be made.” Graupmann, then licensed under the name Rebecca Wilson, in 2005 was cited by Dakota County for having 14 children in her care between 8:15 and 8:30 a.m. She stated on the correction order that one family was no longer coming to child care there and she had discussed with all parents the importance of not dropping children off early. Graupmann was also issued a correction order in 1999 for toxic or hazardous items accessible to children in care, and another in 2001 for the area around her hot water heater being accessible to children in care and a child in care without a current immu-

nization record on file, Dakota County records show. A child suffered an elbow injury in a fall that occurred at her child care in 2001. The child was checked by a medical professional, which triggered the report. In 2008, a child at Graupmann’s child care was hit in the head and required staples to close the injury. In both of the medical situations, a licensing home visit to investigate did not reveal any violations, stated Dakota County spokesperson Sharon Madsen in an e-mail. The vast majority of infant child care deaths in Minnesota occur in home child care settings. Since 2002, there have been 84 reported deaths of children while in Minnesota child care, and 81 of them occurred in home child cares, according to Karen Smigielski with the Department of Human Services. This year, eight children have died in home child cares, and there have been none in child care centers, Smigielski said. Causes for the deaths involved violations related to safe sleep requirements, training, exceeding license capacity limits and failure to provide adequate supervision, according to the Human Services Department.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

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September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Art festival is ‘TENacious’ Lakeville Art Festival marks 10th anniversary Sept. 15-16

by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

File photo by Rick Orndorf

Art instructor Kim Yolitz demonstrated glass and lamp working at last year’s Lakeville Art Festival. Raku pottery, ceramics and watercolor painting are among the many art tutorials offered at this year’s weekend-long event. Left: bracelet by Cheri Meyer. Right: vase by Chad Jerzak.

Visitors to the annual Lakeville Art Festival get more than an art-gallery experience, says festival director Shelly Carney. The goal is total immersion in art. The festival, which this year runs Sept. 15-16 on the grounds of the arts center in downtown Lakeville, features a juried art show, art demonstrations and instruction, a community art project and children’s activities throughout the weekend. “You can have a true artistic experience,” Carney said. “We’ve got eight or nine demos, the Literary Art tent and lots of hands-on activities. It’s definitely an event you can spend a lot of time at.” This year’s theme is “TENacious Art,” a nod to the festival’s 10-year anniversary. For the more than 50 artists who have signed up to exhibit their work, the festival is a way to share their art with fellow artists and visitors, and also to win awards. The two-day juried show chooses first-, second-

and third-place Best in Show winners, as well as a Best in Show award for emerging artists. All the art – including jewelry, sculpture, photography, painting and other media – is for sale, and prices range from a few dollars to several thousand. Visitors who feel inspired to create their own art can participate in the community art project. This year, guests will paint small canvas squares which will be assembled into a massive wall hanging and displayed in the lobby of the Lakeville Area Arts Center this coming year. A special “Now and Then” exhibit will offer a where-are-they-now look at past Best in Show winners from the festival’s Emerging Artist program, which each year offers three to six young artists a chance to publicly debut their work. The weekend will also include plenty of food and entertainment. Saturday musical entertainment includes performances by Greg Herriges, Julie Johnson & the No-Accounts, and Phil Hal-

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Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

stead, as well as guitar students from Halstead’s music school. On Sunday, performances include the City of Lakes Chorus, Sasha Mercedes, Paul Christian, the Vecchione/Erdahl Duo and others. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 16.

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The Lakeville Area Arts Center is at the corner of Holyoke Avenue and 210th Street. More information about the festival is at www.lakevilleartfestival.org. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

File photo by Rick Orndorf

A community art project is an annual feature of Lakeville’s art festival. This year’s project will see guests painting small canvas squares which will be assembled into a giant wall hanging and displayed in the lobby of the Lakeville Area Arts Center this coming year. Left: painting by Dave Angell and bracelet by Julie Johnson.

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September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Thisweekend theater and arts briefs Frightmares at Patsy Cline Buck Hill tribute Frightmares at Buck Hill Colleen Raye will perreturns for its fourth season form her musical tribute to with 13 nights of frights be- Patsy Cline at 2 p.m. Sunday, ginning Friday, Oct. 5, and Oct. 7, at the Burnsville Perrunning through Sunday, forming Arts Center, 12600 Oct. 28. Live music will be Nicollet Ave. Tickets are $19 featured Friday and Saturday and can be purchased at the nights. box office, via Ticketmaster Hours are 7 to 10 p.m. at (800) 982-2787 or ticketon Wednesdays, Thursdays master.com. and Sundays, and 7 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Cost is $20. Information: www.frightmares.com.

Community bands perform

The Rosemount Com-

theater and arts calendar munity Band and the River Valley Community Band will perform at the inaugural Spring Lake Park Reserve Musical Festival from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 23, at Spring Lake Park Reserve, 8395 127th St. E., Hastings. Each band will perform a repertoire of marches, classical music, pop tunes and traditional band music outside of the Scharr’s Bluff Gathering Center overlooking the Mississippi River. The festival is free and open to the public. Bring blankets or chairs. It is sponsored jointly by Dakota

County Parks, the Hastings Prescott Area Arts Council and Rosemount Area Arts Council.

Zest event in Eagan Zest, an evening of global cuisine and entertainment, will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 20, at Lost Spur Golf and Event Center, 2750 Sibley Memorial Highway, Eagan. Emceed by local television broadcaster and entrepreneur Robyne Robinson, the event will benefit the Eagan and Lakeville Resource Centers and Cheerful Givers. Local foodies Elizabeth Ries, co-host of “Twin Cities Live,” and Amalia MorenoDamgaard, chef entrepreneur and author, will demonstrate and sample one of their favorite ethnic recipes. Entertainment will include traditional Mexican music, Middle Eastern and Irish dance, and a conversation with Barb Schaller, a state fair canning champion. Tickets are $50. More information can be found at http://zestevent.eventbrite. com.

To submit items for the Arts Calendar, email: darcy.odden@ ecm-inc.com. Auditions Giant Step Theatre will hold auditions for children in grades two and above for “Mission to Frostbite Mountain” on Sept. 7 and 8. All who audition will get a part in the play, which will be performed Oct. 18-28. To sign up for an audition and for more information, email giantsteptheatre@yahoo.com. The StringWerks Music Program offered through ISD 191’s Community Education will hold placement auditions for string, brass, woodwind, and percussion players beginning Sept. 10. Rehearsals are held on Monday nights and will culminate in a Nov. 17 concert at Burnsville High School. String players of all ages and ability levels are welcome. Youth brass, woodwind and percussion players are needed. To arrange an audition, call Carolyn Axt at (952) 890-1284. Twin Cities Ballet will hold “Nutcracker” auditions Sunday, Sept. 16, at Ballet Royale MN, Lakeville. Open to the public. Mandatory parent meeting for parents of all students under 18: noon to 12:30 p.m. Auditions for ages 7-12: 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. Auditions for ages 13 and older: 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. Information: email info@ TwinCitiesBallet.org. Comedy Steve Sabo with special guest Jake Dickey at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 7, and Saturday, Sept. 8, at MinneHAHA Comedy Club, 1583 E. First Ave., Shakopee (lower level of Dangerfield’s), (612) 8609388, www.minnehahacomedyclub.com. Tickets: $13. Concerts Bonfire Music Jam, Saturday, Sept. 8, 9975 W. 194th St., Lakeville. Bring a chair and dish to share. Come at 4 p.m., potluck at 5 p.m., music later. Porta Potty, dinnerware, utensils and beverages supplied. No alcohol, please. Held rain or shine. Hosts: Carol Monter & Wil Kelley, (952) 469-3191, (612) 845-9033, (612) 845-0266. Look for the “Bluegrass Jam” sign. 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. Harvest of Art Community Art Exhibit runs through Nov. 2 at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S., and other Eagan locations. Information: (651) 6755521 or www.eaganarthouse.org. Festivals/special events Burnsville Fire Muster runs Sept. 5-9. Information: www.burnsvillefiremuster.com/. Burnsville Convention & 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. Lakeville Arts Festival will be Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the grounds of the Lakeville Area Arts Center at the corner of Holyoke Avenue and 210th Street. Information: www.lakevilleartfestival.org.

“Musical Heart Notes – Treasuring Children,” a musical fundraiser for Children’s Lighthouse of Minnesota, will be held from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Steeple Center, 14375 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Information: www.childrenslighthousemn.org. 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) 8954680. 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. Free. Homeward Bound Theatre Company will offer “Dr. Seuss and Me” from 3:50 to 5:05 p.m. Mondays, Sept. 17 through Oct. 8, at Rosemount Elementary School where kindergartners through third-graders will act out their favorite Dr. Seuss stories. For more information and/or cost of registration, call District 196 Community Education at (651) 423-7920. Homeward Bound Theatre Company will offer youths age 8-14 an opportunity to be part of the theatre production of “Aladdin” at Falcon Ridge Middle School in Apple Valley. Rehearsals will be 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays, Sept. 22 to Dec. 8, with technical rehearsals from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, and Thursday, Dec. 13, and performances at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15. For more information and/or to register, call District 196 Community Education at (651) 423-7920. Cost is $199. Auditions will be held the first session. Everyone who signs up gets a part. Workshops/classes Adult painting open studio from 9 a.m. to noon the first and third Fridays of the month at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S. Fee is $5 per session. Information: (651) 675-5521. Music Together in the Valley offers classes for parents and their infant, toddler and preschool children in Rosemount, Farmington, Lakeville and Apple Valley. Information: www.musictogetherclasses.com or (651) 439-4219. The Eagan Art House offers classes for ages 4 through adult. Register now for fall classes. For a complete listing go to www.eaganarthouse.org or call (651) 6755521. Dan Petrov Art Studio in Burnsville offers oil painting classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skill level painters, www.danpetrovart.com, (763) 8432734. 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) 7363644. 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) 8950375.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

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Lynda Bogenrief Eileen (Beckius) L y n d a R o s e B o g e n r i e f Wagner (Perrizo), 63 of Cannon Falls,

died peacefully September 2, 2012; husband, children, Terry (sister) by her side, at North Memorial Residential Hospice. Lynda died following complications during the resection of a meningioma brain tumor. She was born December 15, 1948 in Blue Earth MN, to Kermit and Rosamond Perrizo. Raised in Aberdeen, SD, she attended St. Mary’s Catholic grade school and graduated with the first class at Roncalli Catholic High School in 1967. While attending college at Northern State University, she met her future husband, Bill Bogenrief. On August 19, 1968 she married him at St Mary’s Church. They continued to live in Aberdeen in the homes of Bill’s family, began their own family, and eventually relocated to the Twin Cities area in 1970. Lynda worked for National City Bank and the First National Bank of Hopkins until 1978. She devoted much of the middle of her life to her family; successfully raising three children and schooling one husband. In 1992 she earned an associates degree in accounting from Dakota County Technical College, and worked for several years in accounting. Lynda retired from working in 2010, and enjoyed reading, baking, gardening, traveling, RV camping, and the winter weather of Arizona; but mostly she loved and enjoyed her grandchildren, and spending time with them, her siblings, and her friends. Lynda was preceded in death by her parents Kermit and Rosamond Perrizo and her mother in-law Gloria Bogenrief. She is survived by loving husband Bill Bogenrief; children Jay (Mikki) Bogenrief, Carrie Niles, and Marlo (Cris) Schmidt; grandchildren Kaitlin, Andrew, Emilee, Sari, Hailie, Ethan, and Jaeger; siblings Thomas Perrizo, Linnea Blotsky, Terry Place, Patricia Gile, and Michael Perrizo; father-in-law and step mother-in-law Derald and Carole Bogenrief; and close friend Geri Maness. She is also survived by many more dear family and friends. At the family's request; in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, September 13 at 10:00 a.m at St Pius V Catholic Church in Cannon Falls, MN. Father Fernando Ortega will officiate. A burial service will be held at St Mary’s Cemetery in Aberdeen, SD at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 15 with Father Joseph Holzhauser officiating. Arrangements by Lundberg Funeral Home, Cannon Falls. On-line condolences may be directed to: www.lundbergfuneral.com

Eileen Ann (Beckius) Wagner of Apple Valley, MN, age 89; born on December 20, 1922 at Jordan, MN; died August 30, 2012 at Apple Valley, MN. Preceded in death by husband, Nick J. Wagner; parents, Alex and Catherine (Wermerskirchen) Beckius; brother, Virgil (wife, Pearl), sisters, Angela Sames (husband, Gerald), Hilaria Sheehan (husband, William) and brother-in-law, Don Muelken, and son-in-law, Dennis Factor. Survived by daughter Barbara A. (Dennis) Factor of New Prague, MN; sons, Nick M. (Gina) of Apple Valley, MN and Gary N. (Nancy) of Plymouth, MN and by grandchildren – Angela Factor, Joe (Sarah) Factor; Jamey (Katie) Wagner, Jill (Marcus) Hubers, and Jon (Jessica) Wagner; and Kari N. Wagner; great grandchildren – Marisa & Aavionna Lee; Ashley, Maren & Ryan Wagner; Laney (Wagner) Hubers; Julia & Jon Wagner. Also, survived by sister, Jean Muelken, of Richfield, MN. Formerly of Richfield, MN, Eileen retired in 1985 from Independent School District #196, Westview Elementary School in Apple Valley, MN where she worked as a school cook for 20 years. She was a member of Mary, Mother of the Church in Burnsville, MN and she was also a member of the local Apple Valley. Garden Club and the VFW Women’s Auxiliary at Prior Lake, MN. She had a passion for cooking and all things associated with menu planning. She also enjoyed golfing, gardening, crafts, and feeding the many birds she adopted in her backyard. She especially loved spending time with her family. She was loved by all who knew her, and she will be deeply, deeply missed. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at 12 noon at Mary, Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road (Cliff Road & Cedar Avenue) in Burnsville, MN. Visitation was from 4 to 8:00 pm on Tuesday, September 4, 2012 at White Funeral Home, 14560 Pennock Avenue, Apple Valley (952 432 2001) and one hour prior to Mass at the church. Interment at St. Mary’s & St. Mark’s Catholic Cemetery at Shakopee, MN. We want to express our appreciation to all of those who supported her in her final days, but especially to the medical and nursing staffs at Fairview Ridges Medical Center in Burnsville, MN and Augustana Healthcare Center in Apple Valley, MN. On line condolences at www.whitefuneralhomes.com

Born June 20, 1936 - Passed away peacefully September 3, 2012. Preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Mary Fitzgerald and Grandson, Alan Ring. She is survived by her husband of nearly 53 years, Joseph Peichel, and children, Kathleen (Ralph) Ring, Timothy (Rita) Peichel, Michelle (John) Huver and Grandchildren, Steven David & Andrew Ring, Jeremy and Vincent Peichel, Elizabeth, Jessica, Christina & Angela Huver and Great-Grandson Liam Peichel. Darlene was born and raised in Almena, Wisconsin and met Joe at a church dinner in Almena in 1959 and were married later that year. They moved to the Twin Cities and eventually settled in Eagan. She worked in the banking industry for 25 years, then worked and retired from Republic/Northwest Airlines for 17 years. She was a 33 year breast cancer survivor, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She enjoyed baking, arts & crafts/ceramics, embroidery & cross stick, church activities-especially rosary making, and spending time with all her grandkids and making a point to attend as many of their functions as possible. She so enjoyed travelling in her motor home and spending quality time with family. She was also an avid coca cola collector and enthusiast, along with her love of anything to do with Martha Stewart. Mass of Christian Burial Friday September 7, 2012 at 11 a.m. with visitation Thursday, September 6, 2012 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and one hour prior to the service all at the Mary Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Road East, Burnsville, MN. Interment Monday, September 10, 2012 at 11:15 a.m. at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis. Washburn-McReavy Funeral Chapel, Edina 952-920-3996

Francis G. Mahowald Mahowald, Francis G., age 94 of Lakeville went home to be with The Lord on Friday, August 31, 2012. Preceded in death by his previous wives; Marcella Friedges (1981) and Irene Donnelly Ruddle (2003). Survived by children and stepchildren Bob (Diane) and Kevin (Mary Kay)Mahowald, Karen (Bob) Riedfort, Linda Ruddle, Pat (Jim) Dooley, Bob (Katie) Ruddle, Gary Ruddle, Kathy Rollman; 17 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; also special friend Shirley Bjerke. Lifetime Lakeville resident, charter member of the Lakeville Fire Dept., defense worker building ships in Savage MN during WWII and owner of F.G. Mahowald Cement Construction until retirement. Senior member of the 5:00 a.m. breakfast club at the Buckboard Restaurant. He loved to fish and lived a full Life! Mass of Christian burial was held, 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 5, 2012 at All Saints Catholic Church (19795 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville, MN 55044 p.952-469-4481). Visitation was held on Tuesday at White Funeral Home (20134 Kenwood Trail, Lakeville, MN) and one hour prior to the Mass at the church. Interment: All Saints Cemetery, Lakeville, MN. On line condolences at: www.whitefunerahomes.com

Knight - Boote III Announcing the engagement of Sarah Rose Knight, daughter of David and Sandra Knight to Jack Judson Boote III, son of Sharon and Peter Pasvant of Apple Valley MN. Sarah is a 2005 graduate of Rosemount HS and 2009 graduate of the U of WI - River Falls. Jack is a 2000 graduate of Eastview HS and a 2004 graduate of the U of MN - Mankato. An Oct. 6th, 2012 wedding is planned at Shepard of the Valley Lutheran Church in Apple Valley.

Timothy Eisenbeisz left this world to be with his Savior on Friday, August 24, 2012. He was preceded in death by grandparents Fred and Rosemary Stephan and Reinhold Eisenbeisz. He leaves behind his loving parents Randy and Roby Eisenbeisz, his brother Eric (Renee), grandmother Irene Eisenbeisz and all his loving Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends. Tim graduated from Burnsville High School in 2006 where he excelled in his passion for music by playing the French horn in concert band and pit orchestra. Tim was surrounded by a network of wonderfully creative and talented musicians and players in the performing arts at Burnsville High. His passion was fueled by the dedicated music teachers who encouraged and supported him through his school years, but especially by his mentor, Scott Winters. After high school, Tim pursued his interest in software and technology, but always with music as a companion. He was a seeker of God’s word and shared with his family his firm conviction in the salvation given to him through Jesus Christ his Savior. It is that affirmation and our own belief that gives us comfort and will carry us through the time of pain and sorrow. Celebration of Life, was held Wednesday, August 29, 2012 at Hosanna! Church, 9600 163rd St. Lakeville, MN. Gathering of family and friends was one hour prior to service at church.

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Gianeskis Bielec

Laura Gianeskis and Bryce Bielec announce their engagement and upcoming wedding. Laura is the daughter of Anna and Mike Gianeskis of Guyton, GA. She is a 2007 graduate of Effingham County High School, Springfield, GA and a 2011 graduate of Georgia Southern University, Statesboro. Laura is completing her graduate studies in spanish education at GSU. Bryce is the son of Wanda and Jeff Bielec of Burnsville. He is a 2006 graduate of Apple Valley High School and a 2011 graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. Bryce is a band teacher at Calvary Day School, Savannah, GA. An October wedding is planned in Savannah.

In Memoriam Armando Guerra “The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when they discover that someone else believes in them and is willing to trust them” - Ralph Waldo Emerson You were that kind of friend to me, Armando. May 27, 1974 - Sept. 10, 2011

In Memoriam

Alyssa Jo Danielle Boehme Jan. 16, 1989 - Sept. 7, 2007 It's hard to believe we've survived the last five years. You are so dearly missed and nothing is the same; but you are more than remembered, you are never ever forgotten. We miss you, Alyssa Jo, and love you forever and always all the way to heaven and back again. xxxooo Your Family

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Sports

September 7, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Panthers take one from Cougars Ringeisen coaches Lakeville North evens the series at 5-5

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

When Lakeville North Panthers beat the rival Lakeville South Cougars to open the football season last week, South fans realized they might not get a chance to avenge the loss. The teams have played each other in the section playoffs each of the last four years, making for a thrilling varsity football game in late October or early November, but odds are they won’t see each other again this year. Both Lakeville programs were moved to the new Class 6A for 2012 and put in an eight-team Section 3 bracket with Burnsville, Eagan, Eastview, Park of Cottage Grove, Prior Lake and Rosemount. Only the first-round playoff game is guaranteed to be against another Section 3 opponent. The winners of the Section 3 first-round games Oct. 26 game will be paired with Section 4 teams for the second round Nov. 2. Section 4 features Cretin-Derham Hall, Forest Lake, Mounds View, North St. Paul, Roseville, Stillwater, White Bear Lake and Woodbury. The winners from there will go on to state. It’s still possible the Lakeville teams will be matched up in the first round, although both coaches had their doubts. “(North) will have a pretty high seed, but we’ll win some games,” Lakeville South coach Larry Thompson said. “We’ll

100th season

Number of swift swimmers back for Panthers, Cougars

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville South’s Josh Corchran (47) closes in on Lakeville North’s Jamiah Newell (3) in the season opener on Aug. 30. be up there too, so (we will) probably not (play North).” Lakeville North coach Brian Vossen was fine with playing South just once. “There’s a lot of distractions playing them on both sides,” Vossen said. “If we only play once, that’s fun. It’s fine.” So the Panthers will celebrate what they have. “We’re glad we got the win,” Panther linebacker Mitch Johnson said after his team’s 47-24 victory over South on Aug. 30. “I guess we should just cherish it and be glad we played a good game.” Lakeville North literally took the game away from Lakeville South by

causing five Cougar fumbles. “They’re too good of a team to be fumbling the ball and giving it to them like that,” Thompson said. “They have like nine guys back on defense. There was a lot of that firstgame stuff tonight for us. Tonight, they were a little more experienced and they made less mistakes. But everything we did tonight is correctable.” The win put the all-time record between North and South at 5-5. “It was a big deal to even the rivalry,” Vossen said. “It’s like a fresh start now. It’s exiting to see the tide come back in our direction.”

Lakeville North has won four of five since starting 0-4 against South. Vossen predicted the Lakeville North coaches would find plenty of areas to improve after reviewing the game video. “There’s going to be lots of mistakes we’re going to find,” Vossen said. “It’s a balance not to knock these guys down after such a great win. They’re great guys, but we’re always trying to improve.” The players agreed. Johnson, who scored on a 63-yard fumble return, said he wasn’t happy about giving up 24 points, although one of the South See panthers, 15A

Lakeville South girls swimming head coach Rick Ringeisen has hit a landmark few have ever reached. Ringeisen entered his 100th season as a high school coach this fall. “It struck me last spring,” he said. “I figured, 33 years, 33 seasons. Next fall that’s going to be 100. I’m kind of excited. I’m blown away by the attention. For me it’s always been about the kids. I’ve always been very comfortable on the sidelines as a coach.” He’s been a boys swimming coach during the winter, and a throwing events coach in track and field during spring, for 33 years. He’s now in his 34th year as a girls swimming head coach. “It’s really an unbelievable landmark,” Lakeville South activities director Neil Strader said. “It’s a pretty amazing feat to have that type of longevity.” His advice, Ringeisen admits, is full of clichés. “It’s funny but all the clichés add up,” Ringeisen said. “When I was a young coach I wasn’t a big fan of cliché, but just yesterday I said, ‘Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.’ ’’ He preaches hard work, but also tells his athletes to be proud of their accomplishments and those of others. “You learn to compete with people, not against people,” Ringeisen said. “In life, it’s how well you work

with people. If the people you work with don’t like you, it’s a dead end. It’s about competing with honor and integrity and class. Be genuine with people and show them you care. “Sometimes the cliché is what it’s all about.” He wouldn’t still be coaching if he didn’t have the passion required. “I’ve had some pretty tremendous kids to be a part of,” Ringeisen said. “Liz Podominick winning a national championship and competing in the Olympic trials was really something. Realistically, though, it’s the random email you get. It’s the thank-yous for the time and the effort that mean the most. “I’ve never discounted winning those championships. You remember those things. They’re far and few between.” He’s been a successful coach, too. “I have been blessed to coach many great teams and individual athletes,” Ringeisen said. “When I took over the program as head coach, the cupboard was bare; the team went three years before we won a meet. However, since that time, 80 athletes have swam in the state meet, 43 have been named All-State, and 40 have been named AllAmericans.” He hopes to add a few more swimmers to the list this fall. The Cougars were third in Section 2AA and See swimming, 15A

Tigers could have a special team Taubenheim nails four field goals in season opener

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

Special teams were pretty special in the Farmington football opener Aug. 31. Reid Taubenheim kicked a career-high four field goals and Athen Ashton had an 88-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the first half to secure a 19-7 non-conference victory over Rochester Mayo. “I went out there a little jittery,” Taubenheim said. “But it was all (the offense). The offense moved the ball. I just had the easy job. I just ignored the rush. The hold and snaps were perfect.” Taubenheim’s field goals were from 20, 48, 33 and 43 yards. The 48-yarder is a school record. He also recovered a botched snap in punt

formation and was able to kick the ball just before being tackled by Mayo players, saving his team almost 40 yards of field position. He was the team’s kicker and punter last season, and he spent much of the offseason honing his craft. “I’ve been working hard,” he said. “I did some camps once in a while. I live close to school so I would come out early before practice and stay after lifting to kick here on the field.” Ashton also gave the Tigers a boost with a kick return for a touchdown, something that hasn’t happened in Farmington for some time. “ I just thought get to the end zone faster then anyone else,” Ashton said. “Our coach said we hadn’t had a

Perkins wins Irish Invite Lakeville North girls second at 14-team meet

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The Lakeville North girls cross country team opened the season with a bang Aug. 31, finishing second at the Irish Invitational in Rosemount. Taylor Perkins was the first girl to cross the finish line at the 14-team invitational. She finished the 2-mile race in 11 minutes, 59 seconds, almost 10 seconds ahead of Kaia Bierman of Northfield. Chloee Sagmoe wasn’t far behind, finished seventh running in 12:29.5. Elle Severson (21st), Emma Drangsveit (38th), Riley Broughten (45th), Danielle Bellino (58th) and Taylor Loth (66th) helped push the team to second place behind Prior Lake and ahead of several other regular contenders, including Northfield, Rosemount, Wayzata, Minnetonka, Stillwater and Mahtomedi.

Boys cross country

The Lakeville North boys cross country team has a new coach this season who is well versed in what it takes to compete in the south metro. Rob Carney is a lifelong runner who got his start in the seventh grade with Burnsville. “I have volunteered with several teams around Minnesota and Wisconsin over the past couple of years and was very excited with this opportunity to work with the fine runners at Lakeville North,” Carney said. He also coached the distance runners on the track team last spring for the Panthers. The boys cross country team is led by seniors Corey Peterson and Perry Smith, with underclassmen Jason Windhorn, Justin Hanson, Ben Rauzi, Noah Omdal, Luke Anderson and Brian Vance keeping pace. See Perkins, 15A

kick return for a touchdown for like four, five years. I really wanted it this year after returning the past couple years. It’s nice to do it in the first game. Now I want to do it again.” Ashton also led the team in rushing with 142 yards. The Tiger offense failed to score a touchdown, but got close enough for Taubenheim. Farmington’s defense kept the Spartans quiet. “We really needed this win,” Ashton said. “It’s going to set the tone for the rest of the year.” It was a refreshing way to start the season for the Tigers. The Tigers haven’t won a season opener since beating Grand Rapids 37-14 in 2009. Last year Farmington lost at Mayo 35-28 in the

opener. Taubenheim (one tackle, nine assists) also was part of a defense that gave up just seven points along with Nick Ruark (five tackles, five assists) and Denver Robinson (three tackles, two sacks). “They really held it together for us,” Taubenheim said. Quarterback Darren Beenken scrambled a little more then he would have liked but he found Mac Bassett open on a 64-yard pass in the second half. “The main thing was our protection,” Ashton said. “We couldn’t really pick them up. In the red zone we couldn’t really get it in. That wins games. Our kicker really pulled through for us.” The Tigers will make the

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Farmington’s Darren Beenken (6) finds room to run in Friday’s win over Rochester Mayo. trip to Northfield on Friday for a highly anticipated Missota Conference game. Last season Farmington defeated Northfield 26-0, for its first victory over the

Raiders since 2008. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Cougar cross country is a step ahead Girls are runners-up at Dakota Classic

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

Most of the runners have returned for a Lakeville South girls cross country team that won the South Suburban Conference and Section 1AA titles and finished runner-up at state in 2011. The good news for the Cougars is only one of the team’s top seven from last season, Megan Kilbride, graduated. Sophomores Kaytlyn Larson (fifth at the state meet), Annie Brekken (12th) and Caraline Slattery (87th) will join forces with juniors Megan Lubow (26th), Erin Kilbride (47th), Jenny Machaj (57th) to form one of the early favorites in girls cross country in Minnesota. Mariah Gallagher and Erin Meyers should give the team a boost as well. The girls are aware of their potential, but they’re not getting ahead of themselves. “We’re going into it the same as every year – work-

ing hard and we’ll see how we do,” Erin Kilbride said. “Running is a hard sport. You can’t take breaks. We have teammates to push us and we try to make it fun.” Lakeville has been known to produce many of the best distance runners in the state with several alumni from both North and South earning accolades, such as current University of Minnesota runners Paul Hilsen and Michelle Volz. “When I joined all those years ago I really looked up to those runners,” senior captain Audrey Lane said. “I was inspired. I don’t know what it is about Lakeville. There’s a lot of great places to run. There’s lots of hills.” The Cougars came into the season ranked No. 1 in Class AA. “We want to have a lot of fun working hard and training smart so we can put ourselves in a position to be successful at the end of the season,” coach Jessica Just said. “We have a number of experienced runners that

hope to have the opportunity to compete with some of the best runners in the state.” The ranking was tested on Aug. 31 at the Dakota Classic in Eagan. The home team, Eagan, outran the Cougars, who ended up in second. Eagan has Danielle Anderson, who won the Dakota Classic, along with the majority of its runners from a team that finished ninth at state and second in the South Suburban Conference in 2011. Larson finished in second place at the Dakota Classic, with Brekken fifth, Machaj eighth, and Erin Kilbride 13th. The girls will get a few more shots at Eagan this season. The team will race at the Apple Jack Invitational in Lakeville on Sept. 14, the Apple Valley Invitational on Sept. 22 and the Chaska Invitational on Oct. 2.

return for another run. Up-and-comers Wali Ibrahim and Mitchell Miller along with senior captains Tyler Haar, Zach Gelineau and Evan Keil should help the boys improve on their fourth-place finish at the Section 1AA meet last season. “We’re hoping to develop for the future of our program with a lot of young guys,” Gelineau said. “We ran the whole summer and put in more than 500 miles.” The boys tied with Eagan for third at the Dakota Classic last week. Ibrahim finished seventh and Hanson eighth individually. “As a team our goal is to get to state,” Haar said. “It’s been a couple years. At least send a couple guys there. We have a couple good underclassmen. We like to have fun. We’re a big family.”

Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. Cougar boys com or facebook.com/sun For the boys team, Wade thisweek. Durham and Noah Hanson

swimming, from 14A

The girls also edged out Burnsville on Aug. 30 18th at state, qualifying in thanks to having a deeper lineup than the Blaze. all three relays in 2011. Several of the girls who Schrock won the 100 freeparticipated at state have style and Mikayla DePauw was the top diver. suited up again. Brianna Alexander participated in the 200-yard Lakeville North individual medley (fifth With four All-State place), 100 backstroke swimmers back in the pool (eighth), the medley relay this fall, Panthers coach (14th) and the 200 freestyle Dan Schneider is excited relay (12th). She’s joined by about his team’s potential Taylor Perko (backstroke for 2012, particularly in the and medley relay), Carrie freestyle events. Schrock (medley, 200 and Julia Bodnaruk (200 400 freestyle relays) and freestyle and 200 freestyle Shea Bougie (backstroke, relay), Erin Kleiner (freemedley relay and 400 freestyle relay), Alena Bodstyle relay). naruk (500 freestyle and While the individual freestyle relay) and Brenna parts may make waves at Smith (freestyle relay) are state, as a team there are ready to swim even faster a few spots expected to be after participating at state filled by younger swimmers. last season. “This will be a rebuild- The freestyle swimming ing year for the Cougars,” abilities of Smith and Julia Ringeisen said. “I expect it and Alena Bodnaruk from may take a few meets for 50 to 500 yards make the the team to discover their Panthers a contender. identity and fill in holes left And Kleiner already in the lineup from gradu- holds the school record in ations and the split. Look the 100 butterfly. She’s an for Lakeville South to build accomplished individual momentum as the season medley swimmer as well. progresses.” The girls will get some Although the girls have help from the versatile Zoya a core of experienced swim- Wahlstrom, whom Schmers, most of the team neider expects to be an All members are underclass- State swimmer. Wahlstrom men. can swim the butterfly, Senior captains Em- backstroke and IM. ily Pfieffer, Hilary Rost and The Panthers will be at Schrock hope to keep the a disadvantage during dual team in contention with help from newcomers Jenna Gruber, Jarin Simpson and Jamie McNamee. The girls won their season opener against Austin, taking first in all three relays and five individual events. Bougie won the 200 freestyle and 100 butterfly. Gruber (200 individual medley), Jackie Johnson (50 freestyle) and Schrock (500 freestyle) also contributed first-place swims.

meets after graduating four divers in the spring and having no one to replace them. “Right now we do not have any divers out for the team, which is a big concern,” Schneider said. With a loaded lineup again, Schneider expects to contend with Rosemount and Prior Lake for the South Suburban Conference championship. All three tied last year for the title, and all have several returnees. The Panthers lost to Prior Lake 97-86 on Aug. 30. The Panthers won more events, but the Lakers had more depth and scored more second- and thirdplace finishes. Julia Bodnaruk (200 freestyle, 500 freestyle), Alena Bodnaruk (200 IM, 100 breaststroke) Kleiner (100 freestyle), and the two freestyle relays won their events. Lakeville North will swim against Rosemount on Oct. 23. The first major invitational meet for both Lakeville teams is the 14-team Lakeville Relays on Sept. 15 at Dakota Trails Middle School. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

panthers, from 14A

15A pair of quarterbacks. Junior Branden Ordorff saw the most time under center, but sophomore Brendon Larson-Gulsvig was in for a drive in the second quarter and also received snaps late in the game. “We’ll see how they do,” Thompson said. “They both did a nice job. They’re both going to get better.” Lakeville North will play its home opener Friday against Bloomington Kennedy, which lost to Hopkins 45-33 on Aug. 30. Lakeville South will travel to Prior Lake, which defeated Eagan 30-11 on Aug. 31.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 7, 2012

touchdowns came on an interception return. “We’ve got to a lot to improve on,” Johnson said. “It’s week one. Turnovers always help, but we’ve always got to improve to next week.” Panther quarterback Zach Creighton threw two touchdown passes, one to Brandon Morgan for 34 yards and another to Ben Blake from 6 yards. Tanner Jacobus had a 91-yard touchdown run and Issac Sandberg scored from 10 yards. Morgan also returned a kick 90 yards for a touchdown and Greg Menard returned a fumble 30 yards to score. “Tonight was a bigplay game,” Vossen said. “Offensively we saw we perkins, from 14A “We are a pretty young team as far as numbers go so we’ll be working on creating a strong, tight pack,” Carney said. Hanson was the team’s top finisher at the Irish Invitational at Rosemount on Aug. 31, coming in 37th.

have some pretty special weapons.” Despite the score, Thompson said the Cougars found plenty to build on. “I’m proud of our team,” Thompson said. “We executed really well. I thought our game plan was pretty good for our young quarterback.” He was particular happy with the way running backs Austin Britnell, who had a 51-yard touchdown run, and Jordan Johnson, who scored from 12 yards, were able to break through against Lakeville North. Other Cougar highlights included Luke Benge’s 18-yard interception return for a touchdown and Brandon Boche’s 37-yard field goal. Lakeville South used a He was followed by Anderson (46th), Peterson (56th), Rauzi (64th) and Omdal (82nd), Lakeville North will hold the Apple Jack Invitational meet on September 14 at Aronson Park. The meet features 20 of the top teams in the state. “It is a great way to ex-

Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek. perience a cross country meet if you have not been to one,” Carney said. “It is a nice course with many points to view the runners as they compete.” Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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Bader, from 1A back, it is very hard for them to be dedicated,” he said. In his consulting role, Alossaimi helps clients with project budgets (including equipment costs), designs, and hiring and training of employees. He has two engineering degrees from the University of Minnesota, but said he has gained a lot of business experience over the course of his 30 years in the field. It is this experience that Alossaimi said would make him a new kind of board member. crime lab, from 1A County drug evidence first tested by the St. Paul crime lab. County Attorney James Backstrom said as of Aug. 31, the BCA had retested 28 of the county’s pending drug cases. “All of these tests have confirmed the final conclusion of the St. Paul Crime Lab that a specific controlled substance was present on or in the items seized by law enforcement officers in those cases,” Backstrom said in an email. Changing crime labs will save Dakota County money. Bianconi said in 2011, the county paid the St. Paul crime lab $40,000 to test drug evidence; testing at the BCA is free. He said the county used the St. Paul crime lab, in part, because of its quick turn-around time that often allowed same-day results. At the BCA, testing for the county’s drug evidence is estimated to take between three to six months to complete. The county has worked with the BCA to prioritize testing, and they expect retesting of the county’s drug cases to take 90 days. “They’ve done a good job trying to make sure we meet court dates,” Bianconi

“A school is a business, just like any business,” he said. “You give them money and they give you a product.” Alossaimi ended up at his 10-acre lot in Credit River because he wanted to live south of the river in a house on a property with a lot of space that was close to I-35, he said. He collaborated with a builder to construct the house. He lauds the neighbors. “One time my car stopped two miles from my house,” he said. “I was in my suit and was walking home. A neighbor pulled up and asked if I needed a

ride.” Alossaimi, curious, asked her why she would pick up a “stranger.” “Oh,” she told him, “we know you.” There will be three School Board positions on the ballot with six candidates (including two incumbents) vying for them this fall. Go to SunThisweek. com to read more about the candidates.

said. He said there was no red flag that anything was wrong at the St. Paul lab. Those admissions during multiple days of hearings were a surprise to county officials, Bianconi said. “Was I surprised? Yes, we were surprised,” Bianconi said. “Had we known those issues existed, we would have addressed them. We thought the issues being raised by the defense were either being exaggerated or looked worse than they were.” Backstrom said the county knew nothing about the extent of problems at the St. Paul lab, and was critical of press accounts that he said have implied Dakota County officials have done something wrong. He said the county’s recent request to end the Frye-Mack evidentiary hearing was misrepresented by the media, including this newspaper, as an effort by the county to shut down the defense’s challenges. “We have encouraged the St. Paul Crime Lab to fully cooperate with all discovery requests related to the on-going litigation challenging the procedures and conclusions of this lab and will continue to do so,” Backstrom stated in an email. “We also support the

complete litigation of all issues surrounding this matter, although it remains our belief that decisions related to the admissibility of evidence in our pending drug cases should be addressed by the trial judges assigned to the individual pending cases. This was another area where prior news coverage (including that of your paper) was misleading by implying our efforts were intended to shut down the defense’s challenges in these cases. Nothing could be further from the truth.” He also noted there have been previously published assertions by some that his office has done something wrong in connection with the crime lab issue. “I am not going to comment further at this time … other than to say we have not,” Backstrom wrote. “As I previously stated, we did not cause these problems and we are working diligently to address them in a manner that insures that all affected drug prosecutions are resolved in an appropriate, just and timely manner.” The Frye-Mack evidentiary hearing was to continue Sept. 6 and 7. Check www.SunThisweek.com for the latest news.

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

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

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