SUN Thisweek Farmington and Lakeville by Sun Thisweek

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Farmington | Lakeville September 28, 2012 | Volume 33 | Number 31

Lakeville’s Heritage Center opens Seniors excited about facility’s prospects

by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

SUPPLEMENT ADVERTISING 28, 2012 September

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Fall Home Improvement The city of Rosemount will host a solar workshop for residents and business owners to learn more about the green technology.

It was an atmosphere of excitement Sept. 25 at the new Heritage Center in Lakeville, which was in its second day of operation. Some Lakeville Senior Center members were touring the 17,000-square-foot facility that is home to the Senior Center, the Lakeville Area Historical Society and the Lakeville Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization.

They were often in awe of the larger size that allows for multiple programs under one roof without everyone “bumping into each other,” as one woman said. Another woman, recalling that the building was once a police station, asked “where is the jail?” Jeannine Anderson lives next to the old Lakeville Senior Center on Holt Avenue in downtown Lakeville, a site that is currently for sale but

has not had any firm offers. She said the new facility, which is about a half-mile north along Holyoke Avenue and across Highway 50, will require her to get rides to attend her choir practice and other programming. She also volunteers to greet people at the main entrance and help them find their classes. Nevertheless, Anderson Photo by Aaron Vehling said she is still pleased with Members of the Lakeville Senior Center enjoyed a game of the result. dominoes in one of the rooms at the new Heritage Center in See HERITAGE, 13A Lakeville, which opened on Sept. 24.

School tax levy projected to decline

opinion Voters need to do homework

194 Board talks taxes, tests, enrollment

ECM Publishers and Sun Thisweek offer the first of what will be six editorials about the upcoming election. See Page 4A

by Aaron M. Vehling Sun Thisweek

The Lakeville Area School Board and district administrators tackled a tax levy vote, mixed enrollment numbers and AYP results at its Sept. 25 meeting. The result is a reduced levy, projected declining enrollment and mostly positive standardized test scores.

thisweekend

Photo submitted

Suspense writer is packing heat Eagan police officer Dan McCarty will discuss his debut novel, “A Soldier Reborn,” at Rosemount’s Robert Trail Library on Oct. 2. Page 10A

sports

Preliminary levy

Chad Lewis is a paranormal researcher whose investigations have taken him across the globe – pursuing ghosts in the castles of Ireland, chasing Chupacabras in Puerto Rico, and searching for the elusive monster of Loch Ness. He’ll be presenting his Minnesota-centered findings at the Galaxie Library on Saturday.

On the heels of the announcement that the Oct. 9 “refunding” of bonds will save the taxpayers $10 million over 10 years, the School Board addressed its annual obligation to vote on a proposed tax levy for the district’s portion of taxes payable in 2013. The board voted on $32.01 million as the maximum levy for 2013. This is about $1 million less than originally called for because of the lower interest rate on debt service from the forthcoming refunding, said Executive

Land of 10,000 ghosts

Galaxie Library hosts ‘Minnesota Road Guide to Haunted Locations’ author Chad Lewis by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

Chad Lewis has the inside scoop on things that go bump in the night. The Minneapolis-based paranormal researcher has

probed reports of otherworldly goings-on at sites throughout the state, and he’s compiled his findings into the book “The Minnesota Guide to Haunted Locations,” which he co-

authored with Terry Fisk. There are the elevator doors that open and close on their own at St. Paul’s Landmark Center. See ghosts, 19A

Director of Business Services Mark Klett. This is also lower than the $32.18 million tax levy in 2012. State law allows for the board to reduce this levy before a December vote, but it cannot increase it. The timeline for approval runs through the fall: • November: Dakota and Scott counties issues tax statements based on the preliminary levy votes in September. • Nov. 27: Public meeting at District 194’s main office to address taxes. • Dec. 11: The Board votes to certify the levy.

Class sizes The district addressed an issue with too large of class sizes in some elementary schools by adding teaching assistants/ tutors. Executive Director of Administrative Services Tony Massaros said the district was able to bring back at least one teacher See LEVY, 19A

Rising taxes concern Farmington residents City has highest total tax capacity rate in Dakota County

by Laura Adelmann

Panthers hitting on all cylinders The Lakeville North volleyball team is undefeated and holds the state’s No. 1 ranking. See Page 14A

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A recent community survey conducted for the Farmington School District reported high levels of “tax hostility” among residents. Decision Resources Ltd. President Bill Morris said earlier this month the survey found residents’ tax hostility was not directed at the school district, but at overall property tax bills in Farmington. Clarence Everman, 89,

has lived in Farmington for 44 years. He did not define himself as hostile to taxes, but said he has come to “accept it, the way property taxes are going up.” “It has concerned me a little bit over the last year, because I’m getting a lot older,” he said. “I don’t have any source of income left, and that’s a rough deal when it comes to paying for anything.” Julie Houck, a Farming-

Python welcomed to podium

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Photo by Laura Adelmann

Farmington School Board members Brian Treakle, Melissa Sauser and Julie McKnight (not pictured) took turns holding “Sunny” a ball python snake visiting the board’s Sept. 24 meeting with Farmington Elementary School firstgrade elementary teacher Dawn Slinger who incorporates animals including snakes, geckos and hermit crabs, into classroom lesson plans.

over the years. Most city department heads now earn over $100,000, plus benefits. “I think they’re just paid ridiculous amounts of money,” she said. “I haven’t had a pay raise in three years; my husband has gone through no pay raises in five years.” Houck said she applauds City Administrator Dave McKnight for his recent decision to skip his pay raise See TAX RATE, 19A

Farmington School District levy to remain flat in 2013 by Laura Adelmann

Index

Sports . . . . . . . . . . 14A15A

Photo by Laura Adelmann

Farmington resident Julie Houck says taxes are a growing concern, and appreciates City Administrator Dave McKnight’s recent refusal to take a salary increase.

ton resident since 1981, said taxes in general are “craziness.” “Every time you turn around, they’re throwing a new tax on us,” she said. Houck said Farmington has a reputation for high property taxes that has kept some of her friends from considering moving to the city. She said the city budget needs to tighten, and was critical of pay raises some department heads received

The Farmington School District’s portion of homeowners’ property tax bills will likely remain flat in 2013, according to Finance Director Carl Colmark. As proposed, the School Board unanimously certified the levy as “maximum,” during its Sept. 24 meeting, instead of setting a specific amount. The action allows the district to change it to reflect Department of Educa-

tion formula adjustments, corrections or data updates, and has been done in the past. In 2012, the district levied about $19 million, with $12.5 million of the levy dedicated to debt service. According to the district, $6 million went into the general fund, and $455,640 of it funded community service expenses. “I think the good news is that I don’t anticipate a large increase in the property tax levy,” Colmark said.

During the meeting, the board also authorized the district to reissue a $20 million 2005 debt bond at a lower interest rate, a move that is projected to save the district $2 million over the next eight years. A final levy will be adopted in December, and the district will hold its truthin-taxation hearing Dec. 10 at 6:30 p.m. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Former DCC employee charged with theft

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Rosemount man allegedly stole computer parts for his own business

by Laura Adelmann Sun Thisweek

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A Rosemount man is accused of stealing computer parts from his employer, the Dakota Communications Center, and selling them or their components through his own computer business. Matthew Steven Brandenburg, 27, worked at the county-wide dispatch center’s information technology department when he took about $1,400 worth of computer monitors and towers from a locked storage room of items intended to be auctioned, according to a criminal complaint filed Sept. 21. Prosecutors say Brandenburg was caught on video on numerous occasions after hours when fewer employees were working, carrying and removing what

have been scrapped or sold. When questioned, the complaint states, Brandenburg claimed the items he had taken were “garbage” and needed to be recycled, and told investigators he believed he was saving the DCC money by taking the items. Brandenburg is charged with felony theft and felony computer theft; each charge carries a potential penalty of up to five years prison and a fine of between $3,000 to $5,000. According to DCC Operations Director Cheryl Pritzlaff, Brandenburg had worked at the DCC for about five years. She said he is no longer employed there. Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

EnergyWise Expo for local businesses set Dakota Electric will host the EnergyWise Expo for commercial and industrial businesses on Oct. 4 at the Eagan Community Center. Local businesses can speak to Dakota Electric’s

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Energy Experts, visit with local vendors who specialize in saving energy and hear speakers provide specific training on energy efficiency and cost-saving measures. Special seminars will

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was believed to be computer monitors and towers from the storage room. He allegedly admitted to police that he took about 10 computer towers, eight touchscreen monitors and many computer cables from the DCC without permission, and did not always sign out key access to the room, as was standard procedure. Deputies searched Brandenburg’s business and found 10 touchscreen monitors with DCC asset tags still attached, and the serial numbers matched those of ones that were missing from the DCC, the complaint stated. He also allegedly handed deputies a 160 GB hard drive that he said came from a DCC computer tower, and said the rest of the towers he had would

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be held regarding water conservation and facility energy monitoring for efficiency and profitability. The expo will run from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find out more at www.dakotaelectric.com.

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Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

Farmington Briefs Support Our Troops Haunted House The 10th annual Support Our Troops Haunted House will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 5-6 and Oct. 12-13 in the 4-H Building at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington. A $5 minimum donation will be received at the door. For more information, visit www.supportourtroopshh. com.

Blood drive set Oct. 4 The Farmington Community Blood drive will be 1 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4, at Fire Station 1, 21625 Denmark Ave., Farmington. To donate, contact Erin at (651) 755-9444 or go to www.redcrossblood. org.

Learn to Skate for free Farmington Youth Hockey Association, the Heritage Figure Skating Club, and the city of Farmington are offering two free skating sessions for newer skaters. These Learn to Skate sessions will be held at the SchmitzMaki Ice Arena in Farmington on the following dates: • Sunday, Sept. 30, 6:30 to 8 p.m. • Tuesday, Oct. 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Interested skaters are invited to both sessions. If attending, email fyha@

fyaasports.org with the name of the skater. For more details visit the FYHA website at http://farmington.pucksystems2.com and click on the player development tab.

Farmington Library events The Farmington Library, 508 Third St., has planned the following events. Call (651) 438-0250 for more information. • Wii Games for Teens, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 1. • Family History on the Internet, 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 1. Discover some of the best genealogy websites and learn to use Ancestry Library Edition free at the library. Registration required. • Farmington Library Book Group, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2. The group will discuss “Eve Ann” and meet the local author D.W. Belton. • Storytime for Babies, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 4. Stories, songs, bounces and playtime for newborns to 24 months and their caregivers. • Storytime for All Ages, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5. Stories and activities for mixed-age audiences such as child-care groups and families.

information. Monday, Oct. 1: • Dr. David Walsh, “Smart Parenting, Smarter Kids,” 7 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 1, Lakeville South High School. Cosponsored by ISD 192 and 194 school districts, Community Education and Early Childhood Family Education departments. • Kung Fu, youth, DMS Tuesday, Oct. 2: • Computer Basics for 50-plus, MVE Wednesday, Oct. 3: • Hypnosis/Weight Loss/Stop Smoking, MVE • The Last Keeper at Split Rock, FHS Thursday, Oct. 4: • Side by Side Chefs – Parent and Child, DMS • iPhoto on your iPad, MVE

Saturday, Oct. 6: • Adult CPR/AED, MVE • Fall in Harmony Trip, SHMS Tuesday, Oct. 9: • Intro to Making Money Online, MVE • Art-rageous Art Camp, MVE Wednesday, Oct. 10: • Spanish You Can Use, ARE • Wizard School, MVE • Carbs: Simply Complex, LSHS Thursday, Oct. 11: • iPad Study Hall, MVE Saturday, Oct. 13: • Safe on My Own, ages 8-11, DMS • Homemade Breads, KTM Saturday, Oct. 20: • Dog Training for Busy Owners, DMS

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Community ed classes

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Farmington Community Education will offer the following classes. Call (651) 460-3200 for more

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Opinion

September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Voters should do their homework before Election Day Election clerks are busy creating a long and detailed ballots for voters. We all know Barack Obama and Mitt Romney are running, but who are all those other candidates for president? The 2012 ballots will include candidates for city council, school board and the soil and water conservation district. Ballots will have county board candidates and possibly some candidates for boards some people have never heard of. Then comes that long list of judge candidates. Even experienced voters shouldn’t “wing it” this year. Voters need to do their homework before going heading to the polls. Read the Voters Guide, which will be published in the Friday, Oct. 26 Sun Thisweek. Talk with the candidate who knocks on the door. Don’t let candidates say, “I’m going to reduce your taxes” or anything so vague. Which taxes? Income taxes? Sales taxes? Property taxes? Pin them down and make them give details. Many cities and counties publish sample ballots in newspapers, and include them on their websites. These can be very informative. Many communities will have voters forums or debates. Take time out to attend and listen. Learn who’s running locally and

ECM Editorial what important matters are being discussed at local levels of government. Voters also need to prepare for the two constitutional amendment questions, which will be included somewhere in those many pages of ballot. It is very important for voters to understand that if they do not vote on either amendment question, it will be counted with the “no” votes. The state constitution requires that a majority of the people voting in the election must approve a constitutional amendment. Therefore a “no” vote and a blank ballot will both count on the “no” side. One amendment will ask voters whether or not Minnesotans should be required to have a photo identification to vote and make other voting procedural changes. The question reads: “Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to require all voters to present valid photo identification to vote and to require the state to provide free identification to eligible voters, effective July 1, 2013?” Proponents argue that requiring identi-

fication will cut down on voter fraud. We need IDs for everything else, why would presenting an ID to vote cause a problem, they ask. Others argue that this will discriminate against the poor and elderly. Some of those individuals cannot obtain official photo IDs because they do not possess birth certificates or other required documentation. It is the other amendment that is generating the most attention and emotion. The question reads: “Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to provide that only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as marriage in Minnesota?” If passed, that language will be added to our constitution. If the amendment fails, it does not mean that gay marriage would suddenly be allowed in Minnesota. Samesex marriage is not legally recognized in Minnesota. Legislative action would be required before same sex marriage would be permitted, or unless a judge rules current law unconstitutional. Some voters are confused as to what “yes” means and what “no” means. “Yes” means, add this to language to the constitution. A “no” vote means, do not add the statement to the constitution.

We appreciate that this topic is passionate and personal. Many churches have taken stands. So have city councils and corporations. This decision challenges both voters’ minds and hearts, as voters decide what they believe is right for them and for the state. We encourage all voters to read extensively, engage neighbors in conversation and listen to the leaders of faith communities. Over the next few weeks, we will be presenting endorsement editorials on the amendments and the top federal offices. The ECM Editorial Board has been researching the issues and meeting the candidates in person. After research and deliberation, the board members have voted on the stances that will be presented in these editorials. Our intent is to encourage voters to think, so that they will make careful and intelligent choices when they enter the voting booth Tuesday, Nov. 6. This is a product of the ECM Editorial Board. Sun Thisweek Newspapers is part of ECM Publishers Inc.

Letters All couples deserve marriage To the editor: When Katy and I went to our pastor to show off her engagement ring, Rev. Pennybacker leaned back in his chair with a huge grin. “Great!” he said. “Let’s talk.” And we did, about money, kids, communication, and sex; church, grad school, and employment. At some point, he said, “Promise each other that if things get rough, you’ll call me before you call a lawyer.” For 23 years of married life and pastoral life, I’ve become the one who gets to lean back and grin. Couples tell me how they met and fell in love. They tell silly stories about “his cat, who hisses when I sit on the bed.” We laugh and talk about how relationships deepen and progress, and how they’ll grow in faith. But some couples also share pain. Their love is real. They long to share life in covenant with each other and with God. They even promise to call me before they call a lawyer. But they face things Katy and I don’t face: unsupportive families, judgmental communities, political scorn, religion wielded like a weapon. The tears I’ve seen! One bride said, “I fought being lesbian because my church told me it was sinful, and for years I believed it. I hated myself.” And now? “After a long struggle, I’ve come to trust God loves me. I’m even beginning to love myself.” What’s still troubling you? “Dad always said when I fell in love for life, he’d walk me down the aisle. But because my ‘love for life’ is a woman, he won’t even come to our wedding. I have to walk

down the aisle alone.” Every couple I marry, gay or straight, deserves to be able to say: “Our families love us. Our church embraces us. Our neighbors welcome us. Our children are proud of us.” The path is hard enough without the state constitution also standing in the way. As a pastor privileged to unite loving couples, straight and gay, in marriage, I’ll vote no on the marriage amendment. It’s how I say to loving families a joyful and supportive yes. DAVID COBB Spirit of Joy Church pastor Lakeville

speak untimed and uncensored. He, truly, represents the citizens of Lakeville. If you feel that Lakeville has been a wonderful place to live, raise a family, and run a business, I would encourage you to once again, give your vote to re-elect Bellows this November. CHARLES GERK Lakeville

Opportunity to strengthen City Council

Christian To the editor: In this November election, voters in Lakeville should know there are two seats are up for grabs on the Re-elect City Council and only three candidates vying for the Bellows for roles. Unlike any time in remayor cent history, there are just a To the editor: few candidates entering the I am writing this letter race which makes our job a to ask people to vote in No- bit easier. Fortunately, the vember to re-elect Mayor candidates are solid; includMark Bellows and allow ing two fresh new faces, one him to continue leading the of which is Doug Anderson city forward. I could talk who deserves thoughtful about Bellows’ personal consideration. commitment and steward- Anderson is a longtime ship to the community, but Lakeville resident with an I think many already know astute business mind; he is a lot about Bellows and his a family man who is very personal commitment to committed to strengthening the community. our city. Anderson brings What a lot of people do great moral character, a not know about, however, strong ethical foundation is his true commitment as a and a history of commupublic servant. During his nity involvement through nearly 10 years on the City Lakeville Rotary, Hosanna! Council, and the past two and chair of the city of years as mayor, Bellows has Lakeville Financial Advialways put the voice of citi- sory Committee. zens before the interests of Anderson delivers the the council and staff. He is bench strength our City not afraid of making hard Council needs; a business decisions. He is not afraid mind, compassionate heart, to ruffle some feathers integrity throughout and with city staff and council communicates with clarity. members. He isn’t afraid to Join me and vote Anderson speak honestly and openly for council. during council meetings. Most importantly, he isn’t JOE BLEE afraid of letting citizens 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.

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Camp promotes skills in students To the editor: I would like to thank Lakeville Area Schools Community Education and Kenwood Trail Middle School for hosting the Camp Invention program this summer. Camp Invention director Terri Tech and talented local teaching camp staff helped to prepare local youths for future success through practical application of the 21st century learning skills such as teamwork, creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving. Eighty-seven Lakeville elementary students joined over 77,000 students nationwide in tackling exciting hands-on STEM challenges at the Camp Invention program. The science, technology, engineering, and math concepts that they learned were used to solve a series of real-world problems that required innovative solutions. I especially want to thank the adult and youth staff and the students in Lakeville for the exceptional creativity and inventiveness that they displayed throughout the week. Susan Z. Clarke Regional consultant Camp Invention

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Lind brings variety of perspectives To the editor: I am writing to support Terry Lind for the Lakeville School Board. Lind is an outstanding candidate and should be elected. I feel that the voting public should know of Lind’s qualifications. Lind has dedicated his life to the Lakeville School District; he has worked as a classroom teacher, an elementary principal and just about every other job in between. Lind started his career as a classroom teacher in Lakeville and finished his career as the principal of Lakeview Elementary. The only break in his service was the time he served in the armed forces during the Vietnam War. Lind’s experience and expertise in education will be a tremendous asset. As an administrator, Lind fully understands school finance, and as a homeowner he understands the local tax burden. Lind will see that we get the most educational value for our tax dollars. I like the fact that there will be no learning curve for Lind when he is elected. His experience proves that he intimately knows the Lakeville School District and the job expectations of school board members. Now that Lind has retired, he continues to be a

stakeholder in the Lakeville schools. Today his grandchildren attend Lakeville schools just as his children did. This means that Lind is uniquely qualified to become a member of the Lakeville School Board. He brings a career of teaching, administrative, and parenting experience to the table. I highly respect Lind as a professional, as a colleague, and as a friend. I have known Lind for over 40 years and I was one of his first students here in Lakeville. It was because of Lind and his teaching that I too became a Lakeville teacher. Now after teaching for 34 years myself I know that Lind will make an excellent school board member. When you vote in November, vote with confidence, vote for Lind for School Board. RICK RINGEISEN Lakeville

Rieb has integrity, honesty To the editor: I’ve had the privilege of working with Laurie Rieb for the past few years and through this work have had the pleasure of watching her leadership skills shine. What I admire the most about Rieb is her ability to respectfully listen and then make decisions that are best for everyone. She is a bold leader who balances what’s right for both the residents and the businesses of Lakeville with integrity and honesty. Rieb believes in partnership and collaboration to maximize the community’s resources. Through her work at 360 Communities, she is constantly thinking about how the services provided will have a positive impact on the Lakeville community as a whole. Rieb has a passion for Lakeville and through her leadership skills, she will ensure the city of Lakeville continues to be one of the best places to live and work in the country. Vote for Laurie Rieb on Nov. 6. GWEN AABERG Lakeville

Supports Harmening for School Board

a “live within your means” budget. Her experience as past president of Crystal Lake Elementary PTO, a member of the district Boundary Adjustment Committee, founder and facilitator of the Elementary School Roundtable, plus founder of the Middle School Roundtable, proves that she works with parents, teachers and principals to protect and improve quality education. Her broad range of work experiences provide her with valuable insights and understanding of the board’s role within the school district. I feel fortunate that our two sons attended and graduated from Lakeville schools and went on to rewarding careers as a successful businessman and an attorney, respectively. They received the skills for their success from competent and caring teachers, staff and principals. Being an “empty nester,” I still want that same opportunity for this generation of children. A vote for Harmening means a vote for a fresh perspective for Lakeville schools. MARGE TRAISER Lakeville

Obermueller will work with others To the editor: The 112th House of Representatives has been called the “do-nothing” Congress. As I write this, the Congress is on another “break” having worked just eight days in September. This Congress has also made history as the single most anti-environmental House in U.S. history. There has been an endless assault on our right to breathe clean air and maintain clean drinking water. The GOP-controlled House has blocked the president’s American Jobs Act, the Bring Jobs Home Act, and has made it a strategy to stand in his way as he tries to help the nation recover from the Great Recession. U.S. Rep. John Kline, RLakeville, has been a willing participant in these actions, and it is time he be retired by the voters of the 2nd Congressional District in favor of someone who will work for the people of this district and help President Obama advance the nation. We need someone who will vote to protect our air and water, someone who will vote for veterans’ benefits, and someone who will vote for jobs in America. That person is Mike Obermueller. Let’s send a person to Congress who will work with our president and work for the people of the 2nd Congressional District.

To the editor: As a previous three-term Lakeville School Board member, I’m writing to support the candidacy of Jennifer Harmening for District 194 School Board. Her common sense and business experience will be a great asset in making decisions that include the best interests of MIKE JOHNSON students, but also maintain Burnsville

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

Lakeville Briefs Heritage Center auction Help support the Heritage Center by participating in an online auction. Drop-off day is Saturday, Oct. 6, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the old Lakeville Public Works building located at 7777 214th St. Any item in good condition with a value of $20 or more will be accepted (no clothing or bedding). Small items valued at $20 or more also can be dropped off at any Lakeville Liquor location during regular business hours through Oct. 5. For larger items, call (952) 985-4901. Bidding will begin on Oct. 11. The auction will run through Oct. 23. Viewing of the items will be open on Oct. 22 at the old Public Works building. A link to the auction site will be posted on the city’s website at www.lakevillemn. gov.

Candidate forums slated The Lakeville Area Chamber of Commerce will host several candidate forums in October. Call (952) 469-2020 for more information. Schedule: • School Board Candidate Forum, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 6:45 to 8:30 p.m., Lakeville City Hall Council Chambers. • Lakeville Mayor Candidate Forum, Tuesday, Oct. 9, 6:45 to 8:30 p.m., Lakeville City Hall Council Chambers. • Lakeville City Council Candidate Forum, Tuesday, Oct. 16, 6:45 to 8:30 p.m., Lakeville City Hall Council Chambers. • State Candidate Forum & Luncheon, Tuesday, Oct. 23, Crystal Lake Golf

Club, 11 a.m. to noon – Senate Candidate Forum; noon to 1 p.m. – Luncheon; 1 to 2:30 p.m. – House Candidate Forum. Cost: $20/ members, $30/nonmembers. RSVP by Oct. 20; no walk-ins.

Budget open house The city of Lakeville will hold an open house from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2, for residents and businesses to learn more about the preliminary 2013-14 budget and tax levy. The open house will be at the Water Treatment Facility, 18400 Ipava Ave. To view the budget, go to http:// www.ci.lakeville.mn.us/ whatsnewpdf/PreliminaryBudget.pdf.

Education center holds grand opening The Crystal Lake Education Center, 16250 Ipava Ave., will hold a grand opening celebration from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4. A ribbon cutting will be at 5:45 p.m. The Splatter Sisters will perform at 6:30 p.m. The event also will include a Usborne book fair, face painting, tours and classroom activities. The center is home to several programs including: Early Childhood Family Education, Early Childhood Screening, Small Wonders Preschool, Wonder Zone Care & Enrichment and Early Childhood Special Education.

lowing children’s programs: • Storytime for 2s & 3s, 10:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24. • Storytime for 4s, 5s & 6s, 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24. • Baby Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 12. Stories, songs, bounces and playtime for children newborn to 24 months and their caregivers. • Books and Beyond: Pumpkin Time, 10:15 to 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 15. Program of pumpkin stories and a craft for children up to age 6 and their caregivers. Presented by ISD 194 ECFE Advisory Council. • The Comical Adventures of Mr. Punch, 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 18. For children of all ages and their caregivers. Presented by Z Puppets Rosenschnoz. • Book Bingo for Kids, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 19. Play Bingo for gently used book prizes For ages 5 to 12. • Waggin’ Tales, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 20. Children ages 5 to 12 can read aloud to a therapy dog. • Halloween Storytimes: A program for children ages 2 and 3 and their caregivers will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31. A program for ages 4 to 6 and their caregivers will be at 11:30 a.m. Siblings welcome at both programs. Costumes may be worn. These library programs are free. For more information, call (952) 891-0360.

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Heritage Library children’s programs The Heritage Library in Lakeville will host the fol-

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Bar association holds vote

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The Dakota County Bar Association, comprised of 149 members, conducted a plebiscite with respect to the contested judicial races in the First Judicial District. Ballots were sent to all 149 members. Eighty-four ballots were returned. Six ballots were rejected because they did not comply with the plebiscite rules. Seventy-

eight ballots were valid and were counted. The results in the Judge 10 race between incumbent Diane M. Hanson and Michael L. Larson: Hanson, 65; Larson, 7. In the Judge 20 race between incumbent Kathryn D. Messerich and Brian A. Gravely: Messerich, 76; Gravely, 2.

Members of the Dakota County Bar Association are lawyers who reside in Dakota County or who regularly practice law in Dakota County. Questions can be directed to Chris Lehmann, vice president of the Dakota County Bar Association, at (651) 455-1661.

Teen short story contest begins ��

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Teens can showcase their writing skills, and win prizes, by viewing a picture and writing a short story – 1,000 words or less – about what’s going on in the picture. Dakota County Library’s annual Teen Short Story Contest runs Oct. 1-31 and is open to teens 12 to 18 who live or attend school in Dakota County.

The Rambling River Center is located at 325 Oak St. For more information on trips, programs and other activities, call (651) 280-6970.

Metro Dining Cards Metro Dining Cards are for sale now through January.

Dental health coffee chat

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entries will be published online on the library’s teen Web page. Six winners will be contacted by the library. Each winner will receive a subscription to Teen Ink magazine and a Barnes & Noble gift card, courtesy of the Dakota County Library Foundation.

Farmington Seniors Farmington seniors

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The photo can be found in the library’s Fall Teen Program Guide or online at www.dakotacounty.us/ library, search short story. Contest rules and an entry form are available online or at any library branch. Entries can be submitted to any Dakota County Library by Wednesday, Oct. 31. All

Dr. Tu from Park Dental will answer questions and showcase dental aids

made specifically for individuals with less dexterity at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9.

Defensive driving class A four-hour defensive driving refresher class will be offered from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12. Register with the MN Highway Safety and Research Center by calling 1-888-2341294. Cost is $20.

Dad’s Belgian Waffles Rambling River Center will hold its Dad’s Belgian Waffles & Silent Auction fundraiser from 9 a.m. to

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1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 27. Advance tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for children. Tickets at the door are $8 for adults, $5 for children. Ages 5 and younger eat free. To volunteer for the breakfast or to donate to the silent auction, call (651) 280-6970.

‘Christmas on the Ranch’ See “Christmas on the Ranch” Wednesday, Nov. 14, at the Plymouth Playhouse. A holiday buffet by Green Mill will be served prior to the performance. Cost: $50/members, $60/ nonmembers. Program time: 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Bus will leave from the Rambling River Center. Deadline: Oct. 22.

Happy Harry’s fundraiser Mention the Rambling River Center when buying furniture at Happy Harry’s Furniture, 22210 Chippendale Ave., and Happy Harry’s will donate 10 percent of the purchase price to the center.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

A little ‘Zest’ in Eagan

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The Eagan and Lakeville Resource Centers partnered with Cheerful Givers to present the first “Zest! A local event of global cuisine” at the Lost Spur Golf and Event Center in Eagan on Sept. 20. Proceeds from the event will support the mission of both of these nonprofit organizations in providing toy-filled birthday gift bags and nutritious meals to those �� in need of a helping hand �� in the community. From �� left, Robin Steele, Cheerful Givers founder; Lisa Horn, �� Eagan and Lakeville � �� Resource Centers executive �� director; Robyne Robinson, �� news broadcaster and �� entrepreneur; Karen Kitchel, Cheerful Givers president; �� Nancy Wester, Eagan and �� Lakeville Resource Centers �� community relations manager. ��

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Ritchie to discuss amendments Secretary of State Mark Ritchie will be on the Eagan campus of Rasmussen College hosting a town hall-style discussion about the voter ID and marriage amendments that are on the ballot this November. The event will be at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 16, and will be open to the public. Rasmussen is at 3500 Federal Drive.

NASA climate scientist speaks NASA climate scientist Dr. James Hansen will speak via conference call on the connection between climate change and extreme weather from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Galaxie Library, 14955 Galaxie Ave., Apple Valley. The event is sponsored by Citizen Climate Lobby. Contact Chuck Prentice at (612) 9658284 for more information.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

Sports

Panther tennis second in conference Tough section tournament looms large

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The Lakeville North girls tennis team continued its strong push through the South Suburban Conference this season. After years of dominance, the Panthers went 8-1 in the conference putting it second in South Suburban Conference. The girls secured the spot thanks to a 4-3 win over Eagan on Tuesday along with earlier season 4-3 wins over Rosemount and Eastview. “The team has really improved over the last couple of weeks and have gained a lot of confidence in themselves,” coach Trish Staehling said. “Beating good Eastview and Rosemount teams were our most exciting victories because they could have gone either way.” Lakeville North losses have come against some of the best teams in the state including Edina 7-0,

Rochester Century 4-3 and Mounds View 4-3. The Panthers have leaned on their singles lineup with Sarah Lindstrand leading the way at No. 1. Sydney Parkinson is 11-2 at No. 2 singles and Lori Ahuja is 11-3 at No. 3 singles. Parkinson and Ahuja both got wins against Eagan. “Maddy Simpson has stepped up and has played a great No. 4 singles for us this year after playing doubles the last couple of years,” Staehling said. “Doubles teams have improved a bunch so I am very pleased with our season so far.” Cat Braaten and Sami Folkman got the win at No. 1 doubles against Eagan, and Megan Upham and Toni Reiland won at No. 2 doubles.

With playoffs beginning on Oct. 1, Staehling is hoping the girls peak just in time, but with power programs such as Rochester Mayo and Rochester John Marshall in Section 1AA, playoffs are never easy.

Lakeville South The Cougars are 7-8 overall and 3-6 in the South Suburban Conference thanks to a 4-3 win over Burnsville on Tuesday. Winning hasn’t been the only measure of success for the Cougars this season. With a young team mixed with talent, improvement is paramount. “We have gotten better each week,” coach John Pieri said. “Our record probably doesn’t show it, but tennis can be a strange game. I have seen improvement especially from Abby

and Amanda Bloomquist, Farisha Ali and Jenna Sergent.” The girls have had fun this season. “We seem to know where we are at as a team and we accept that,” Pieri said. “The girls are super nice, do what is asked of them and they are all good students as well. That sure makes it a little easier when the wins don’t come easy.” The girls have had some thrilling wins against Northfield 4-3, Bloomington Jefferson 4-3 and East Ridge 5-2 to hang their rackets on. Pieri praised the efforts of Kendra Kix, Kaila Larson and Elise Carlson, who have played many different spots this year and given the team better chances to win matches. Playoffs provide another

challenge for the Cougars, and Pieri hopes no matter what happens they all play hard with Lakeville North, Rochester Mayo, Rochester Century and Hastings all competitive. “I am hoping for continued improvement; a willingness to fight for every point no matter how good the opposing team might be,” Pieri said. “There is some outstanding talent in our section.” Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Thisweekend Suspense novelist is packing heat theater and arts calendar Eagan cop featured at Robert Trail Library’s ‘Meet the Author’ event

by Andrew Miller Sun Thisweek

When Dan McCarty writes about the military and police work in his suspense novel “A Soldier Reborn,” he relies less on library research and more on his own life experiences. As a U.S. Army infantry veteran and Eagan poMcCarty lice officer since 2005, he had plenty of source material to work with. “I think I’d gotten tired of seeing things in military movies and law enforcement movies that weren’t real,” he said of writing “A Soldier Reborn,” which was published last year by Beaver’s Pond Press and centers on a small-town murder investigation. McCarty will be discussing his book at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 2, at the Robert Trail Library in Rosemount as part of the ongoing “Meet the Author” series presented by the Rosemount Area Arts Council. “A Soldier Reborn” is McCarty’s second novel but the first he’s published. The Rosemount native wrote his first book over the course of his years at Eastview High School, where he graduated in 1999. “I’d just kind of sit down and write a page or two here and there,” he said. “It’s about a high schooler, and there’s a lot of high school stuff in it. I never pursued publishing it – it was kind of a learning experience.”

McCarty dedicated “A Soldier Reborn” to Dane Ableidinger, a 3-month-old boy who died at a day care around the time the novel was being published. McCarty was the responding officer to that call. “It’s just been a way for me to deal with some of the feelings I’ve had from that call,” he said of the book dedication. “The book will be a lasting monument to a life that was lost too early.” “A Soldier Reborn” is the first novel in a trilogy McCarty has planned. He recently began work on the next book, “A Soldier Returns.” “It’s a work in progress,” he said. “My wife and I had our third son this summer, so I’d been kind of taking a hiatus from writing with three little boys running around the house.” Admission is free to the Robert Trail Library event. More about McCarty and “A Soldier Reborn” is at www.danmccartybooks.com. Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew. miller@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

To submit items for the Arts Calendar, email: darcy. odden@ecm-inc.com. Books Author Mark Forgy will sign copies and discuss his book “The Forger’s Apprentice” from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, in the art gallery at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Free. Minneapolis author Monique Hammond will sign copies of her book, “What Did You Say? An Unexpected Journey into the World of Hearing Loss,” from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at the Apple Valley Barnes & Noble, 14880 Florence Trail. Hammond will speak about important hearing loss topics, answer questions and provide prevention tips and resources on coping with hearing loss.

(952) 898-9404. Colleen Raye will perform her musical tribute to Patsy Cline at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 7, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Tickets are $19 and can be purchased at the box office, via Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster.com. Lucy Michelle, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 4. Part of the Minnesota Zoo’s Acoustic Concert Series in the Target Learning Center. Tickets: $25. Information: www.mnzoo.com/ events/Events_LiveOnStage. asp. Exhibits/art shows Harvest of Art Community Art Exhibit runs through Nov. 2 at the Eagan Art House, 3981 Lexington Ave. S., and other Eagan locations. Information: (651) 675-5521 or www.eaganarthouse.org. The Savage Arts Council will present the third annual Scott County Art Crawl from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6. Information: www.scottcountyartcrawl.org.

Comedy Andy Beningo with special guest Nate Ambruster at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, and Saturday, Sept. 29, at MinneHAHA Comedy Club, 1583 E. First Ave., Shakopee (lower level of Dangerfield’s), (612) 860-9388, www.minnehahacomedyclub. com. Tickets: $13. Chad Daniels at 7 p.m. Oct. 11, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Oct. 12-13, and 7 p.m. Oct. 14 at Laugh Lines Comedy, GrandStay Hotel, 7083 153rd St. W., Apple Valley. Tickets are $12 (Thursday/Sunday) and $15 (Friday/ Saturday). Tickets are available online at www.hahatickets.com or by calling (651) 528-8454.

Festivals/special events “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.

Concerts/music Acoustic guitar jam, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, at The Guitar Shop, 14555 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. Free and open to the public. Anyone who wants to sing or play acoustic guitar is welcome. New Life Band from Tanzania will perform at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 13801 Fairview Drive, Burnsville. Information: Susan at sjambor@ princeofpeaceonline.org or

Workshops/classes Teen artist gatherings at the Eagan Art House from 3:30 to 5:30 Thursdays, Oct. 4, Nov. 8 and Dec. 6; and from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 6, Nov. 3 and Dec. 1. Cost: $3. Information: (651) 675-5521. 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) 6755521.

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Music Together in the Valley offers classes for parents and their infant, toddler and preschool children in Rosemount, Farmington, Lakeville and Apple Valley. Information: www. musictogetherclasses.com or (651) 439-4219. The Eagan Art House offers classes for ages 4 through adult. Register now for fall classes. For a complete listing go to www.eaganarthouse.org or call (651) 675-5521. Dan Petrov Art Studio in Burnsville offers oil painting classes for beginners, intermediate and advanced skill level painters, www.danpetrovart. com, (763) 843-2734. Teens Express Yourself with Paint, 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays at Brushworks School of Art in Burnsville, www.BrushworksSchoolofArt.com, (651) 214-4732. Drama/theater classes for ages 4 and up at River Ridge Arts Building, Burnsville, (952) 736-3644. Show Biz Kids Theater Class for children with special needs (ASD/DCD programs), In the Company of Kids 13710 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville, (952) 736-3644. Broadway Kids Dance and Theater Program for all ages and abilities, In the Company of Kids, 13710 Nicollet Ave., Burnsville (Colonial Shopping Center), (952) 736-3644. Join other 55-plus adults at the Eagan Art House to create beaded jewelry. The Jewelry Club meets on the third Friday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Information: (651) 675-5500. Savage Art Studios, 4735 W. 123rd St., Suite 200, Savage, offers classes/workshops for all ages. Information: www. savageartstudios.com or (952) 895-0375. Soy candle making classes held weekly in Eagan near 55 and Yankee Doodle. Call Jamie at (651) 315-4849 for dates and times. $10 per person. Presented by Making Scents in Minnesota. Country line dance classes held for intermediates Mondays 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Rambling River Center, 325 Oak St., Farmington, $5/class. Call Marilyn (651) 463-7833. Country line dance classes on Wednesdays at the Lakeville Senior Center, 20732 Holt Ave. Beginners, 9-10 a.m.; Intermediate, 10 a.m.-noon. $5/ class. Call Marilyn (651) 4637833. The Lakeville Area Arts Center offers arts classes for all ages, www.lakevillemn.gov, (952) 985-4640.

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theater and arts briefs Scarecrow Alley entries

Entries will be taken through Oct. 3 for the Minnesota Zoo’s fourth annual Scarecrow Alley contest; prizes will be awarded to the top three scarecrows. The contest is open to individuals or groups. All scarecrows must be imaginative, family-friendly and have an animal theme. Up to 40 entries will be accepted on a first-come, firstserved basis. All entries will be on display as part of the zoo’s Scarecrow Alley Oct. 6-31. Complete contest rules and entry forms are available online at mnzoo.org and facebook.com/mnzoo.

Youth symphonies The Minnesota Youth Symphonies will open their 2012-13 season with a concert at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11. The performance will feature all four MYS orchestras and guest artist David Baldwin. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for students

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and groups of 10 or more. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or via Ticketmaster at (800) 982-2787 or ticketmaster.com.

Church ladies Christmas Troupe America will present “Away in the Basement: A Church Basement Ladies Christmas” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4, at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, 12600 Nicollet Ave. Tickets range from $34 to $39 and are available at the box office or by phone at (952) 895-4680.

Harvest Moon volunteers Dakota City Heritage Village is seeking volunteers for its annual Harvest Moon Festival set for 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, and Saturday, Oct. 20. Volunteers are needed to help staff the event. Some positions involve wearing a period-appropriate costume. To volunteer, call Dakota City at (651) 4608050. For more informa-

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Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

tion about the event, visit www.dakotacity.org.

Event to benefit children’s group “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. KSTP anchor Bill Lunn will emcee the event. Entertainment will include the Eagan Women of Note, singer/songwriter Dale O’Brien, Latino band Shandy Jimenez, Sawtooth Bluegrass Band, flamenco dancers Las Zapatistas and magician Darren Maar. The event will include door prizes and a drawing for a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Tickets are $30 at the door. More information can be found at www.childrenslighthousemn.org.

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

Saturday, Sept. 29 G.A.P. Seminar (God Answers Prayer), 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Messiah Lutheran Church, 16725 Highview Ave., Lakeville. Registration and continental breakfast, 8 to 8:30 a.m. Cost: $10 (includes breakfast, box lunch and instructional materials). Timeless Biblical truths are presented and reinforced in a relaxed atmosphere. Email questions to: gapseminar@messiahonline.org. or call (952) 4840386. Kids’ Used Clothing & Equipment Sale by the Minnesota Valley Mothers of Multiples from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Eagan Community Center, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan. Entrance fee: $2. Tickets on sale at 10 a.m. Cash or checks only. Information: www.mvmom.org. Sunday, Sept. 30 Community Cares Food Bank and Buffalo Wild Wings will hold a fundraising event from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. A total of 15 percent of all food purchases will go to Community Cares Food Bank. Stop in and mention that you would like to support Community Cares Food Bank. Thursday, Oct. 4 Crystal Lake Education Center grand opening, 5:30 to 8 p.m., 16250 Ipava Ave., Lakeville. Ribbon cutting, 5:45 p.m.;

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music by the Splatter Sisters, 6:30 p.m. Throughout the night: Activities in the classrooms, face painting and tours. Information: (952) 232-2150. Free solar workshop from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Rosemount Community Center, 13885 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. Learn the basics, get resources. RSVP: http://rosemountsolarworks. eventbrite.com. Sponsored by Metro Clean Energy Resource Team, in partnership with the city of Rosemount.

Friday, Oct. 5 Senior Scams and Fraud Education Workshop, 10 a.m., Burnsville Senior Center, 296 W. Burnsville Parkway. Free. Information: Home Instead Senior Care, (952) 882-9300. Forever Wild Family Friday: Movie Night – The Lorax, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Lebanon Hills Visitor Center – Discovery Room, 860 Cliff Road, Eagan. Rated PG. Free. Registration required. Course No. 4267. Information: http://www.co.dakota.mn.us/LeisureRecreation/CountyParks/ Calendar. Saturday, Oct. 6 Eastview Lightning Dance Clinic for ages 4 to 14 from 11

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a.m. to 3 p.m. at Eastview High School. Registration: 10:15 a.m. Cost: $35 if registered by Sept. 26; $39 at the door. Information: http://www.lightningdanceteam. com/. Community Wellness Day, noon to 3 p.m. at the Eagan Civic Arena, 3870 Pilot Knob Road. This all-ages event provides information on health, safety, environmental, and financial awareness. Features door prizes and family entertainment. Free. Information: Dr. Barb Kaiser at (651) 757-5096. Blood drives The American Red Cross will hold the following blood drives. Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. • Sept. 28, 2 to 7 p.m., Kowalski’s Market, 1646 Diffley Road, Eagan. • Oct. 1, 2 to 7 p.m., Walmart, 2200 Highway 13 W., Burnsville. • Oct. 4, 1 to 7 p.m., Fire Station 1, 21625 Denmark Ave., Farmington. Call Erin at (651) 755-9444 for an appointment. • Oct. 5, noon to 6 p.m., Hosanna Lutheran Church, 9600 163rd St. W., Lakeville.

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Business Briefs Chamber honors Business Excellence winners The Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce honored recipients of its Business Excellence Awards, “Be Green, See Success,” on Sept. 27 (today) at the Lost Spur Golf and Event Center in Eagan. Those honored include AAA Auto Salvage, Rosemount; CNH Archi-

tects, Apple Valley; CocaCola Refreshments, Eagan; International Office Technologies Inc., Eagan; Materials Processing Corporation, Mendota Heights; Rapid Refill Ink, West St. Paul; SKB Environmental Inc., Rosemount; Sprint by ASW, Eagan; and Superior Service, Eagan.

Lakeville Area Chamber sets sail for fall gala Lakeville Area Chamber

of Commerce’s Fall Gala will set sail Nov. 2 aboard White Star Line’s R.M.S. Titanic departing from Brackett’s Crossing Country Club at 6 p.m. for cocktails with dinner at 7:15 p.m. Activities will include silent and live auctions, door prizes, casino action, music and dancing. Sponsorships and auction donations are needed for this fundraising event. Tickets are $125. For information, email todd@lakevillechambercvb.org.

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Kleman Remley Cassandra Ann Kleman, daughter or David and Joan Kleman of W. St. Paul, and Craig Michael Remley, son of Frank and Beth Remley of Lakeville, announce their engagement. Cassie is a 2006 graduate of Henry Sibley High School. She is Co-Manager at Bath and Body Works. Craig is a 2007 graduate of Lakeville North High School and received his B.A. in Political Science at the University of MN, Twin Cities. He is a General Manager for Panera Bread. A wedding is planned for Spring of 2013.

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

Therrien - Volk Debbie and Vince Therrien as well as Rebecca Volk and Larry Volk proudly announce the engagement of their children, Jeanine Therrien and Ryan Volk. Jeanine is a 2006 graduate of BHS and a 2010 graduate of the University of Minnesota. Ryan is a 2000 graduate of BHS. They met while working at Buca di Beppo restaurant in Burnsville eight years ago and it was love at first sight! Both continue working at Buca, and Jeanine is pursuing a pop music career. They will marry this coming December 1 at Church of the Risen Savior in Burnsville.

�� Norman D. Olson (July 3, 1944 - September 20, 2012) Age 68 of Hastings formally of Farmington passed away on September 20, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. Preceded in death by parents Norman and Ella Mae; son Bobby. Survived by children Brenda Olson, Bradly (Theresa) Olson and Elizabeth (Troy) Larson; 7 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and 3 brothers. Memorial Service 4pm, Monday, October 1st, 2012 at White Funeral Home, 901 3rd St. Farmington, MN. Gathering of family and friends one hour prior to service. White Funeral Home Farmington (952) 463-7374 www.whitefuneralhomes.com

�� PUBLIC NOTICE Credit River Township Board Meeting Monday, October 1, 2012, 6pm Agenda

6 PM: Call Meeting to Order, Pledge of Allegiance 7 PM: Informational Meeting on Fern Drive & Birch Road Project 1) Approve or Amend Agenda 2) Consent Agenda 1) August 2012 Treasurer's Report 2) September 2012 Developer' s Escrow Statement 3) September 4, 2012 Board Meeting Minutes 3) Open Forum 4) Old Business 1) Township Parks 2) County 44 Service Road Turnback 3) Lower 167th Street E 5) New Business 1) Clerk's 6 Month Review 2) 2013 Meeting Schedule 3) Attorney Report 4) MS4 Ordinance 5) Discuss Interior of Town Hall 6) Town Hall Snow Removal 6) Road Report 1) Township Mileage Report 7) Engineer's Report 1) Lynn & Monterey 2) 195th Street E 3) Territory 8) Treasurer’s Report 1) Transfer Funds 2) Levy Resolution 3) 2 0 1 3 B u d g e t e d R e v e n u e s / Expenditures 4) Proposed CSTS Certifications/ Resolutions 5) Proposed Service Charge Certification/Resolution 6) CSTS Budgeting 7) Escrow Update 9) Clerk's Report 1) Accessibility Of Documents for Website 2) General Election is November 6, 2012 2.1) Head Judge and Assistant Head Judge 2.2) Supervisors Needed to Assist Clerk 10) Review and Pay Bills 11) Adjourn 3165874 9/28/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

City of Elko New Market Winter Seasonal Public Works Position The City of Elko New Market is accepting applications for a winter seasonal maintenance worker in the Public Works Department. The position will be responsible for assisting with plowing, snow and ice removal from City streets, sidewalks, trails and facilities. This position may also assist in the maintenance of the City's infrastructure, including storm sewers, water and sanitary sewer systems, parks, buildings and other City property. Minimum qualifications include a valid Minnesota Class B Drivers License and must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Preferred qualifications include experience in plowing, removing snow and applying sand and other ice control on roads; heavy, medium and light equipment; and general property maintenance and groundskeeping. The position will be scheduled as an on-call position. The position is available to start November 1, 2012. Salary is $15.00 per hour. City application required. For a copy of the application materials, contact the City of Elko New Market at (952) 461-2777 or visit the city web site at www.ci.enm.mn.us . Submit completed application to the City of Elko New Market, P.O. Box 99, Elko New Market, MN 55020. Completed application packet must be received by 4:30 p.m., October 12, 2012. 3159763 9/28/12

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

“We needed it,” she said. Construction began on the facility this year, following bid approval in March, though the City Council began its of ten heated and controversial discussions on the project in early 2011. The idea for a hybrid site goes back to 2009, when the historical society proposed the idea to the city. In 2010 talks continued and a plan became more concrete. The Lakeville Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization joined the effort in fall 2011. The building had served as the police station until 2008, when the police moved into the new station toward the geographical center of the city. After this, it sat empty but for the Lakeville school district’s brief flirtation with it as a possible community education site. So the challenge was twofold: Remodel a facility built for the police into something oriented toward commu nity programs; and the City Council instructed that the project be tax-neutral. The three organizations have raised about $110,000 in cash donations toward paying back a $400,000 bridge loan from the city’s liquor fund. The groups hope to raise about $150,000 more. The rest of the loan would be paid back with the sale of the old building. The total cost of the proj ect was $1.09 million, with most of that coming from the city’s existing building funds. The Heritage Center has received a wealth of in-kind donations, including pave ment work, carpentry and supplies. Lifetime Fitness donated some exercise equip ment and someone donated a baby grand piano, among other things. Donated labor hours exceed 1,500.

Tour The Heritage Center in cludes game rooms, a room for a computer, two larger gathering spaces and recep tion areas, a commercial kitchen, an atrium, an art room, an exercise room and locker rooms. All rooms featured furni ture repurposed from other city buildings or donated from outside parties. The three tenants share some gathering spaces and reception areas, but the His torical Society and Yellow Ribbon also have their own spaces. Most of the rooms are available to the public for rent, said Senior Center Co ordinator Linda Walter. “It’s awesome,” Walter said of the new space. “It’s so much fun to see the excite ment the seniors have.”

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

Wally Potter, historical so ciety treasurer, was busy un packing. Boxes with old copies of the Dakota County Tribune newspapers abounded amid other relics of Lakeville’s past. He has been on-site at for months, helping remodel as well as moving boxes. He said he enjoyed all the sup port for the new place. “I’ve got to thank all the volunteers for helping out,” he said. “It’s great to be here.” The historical society for years was housed in the old parsonage on the Lakeville Area Arts Center property, but the building became un able to accommodate the pub lic (it is not Americans with Disabilities Act compliant). The fate of the parsonage is not entirely certain, but it will be moved off its current site and the foundation will be filled in to accommodate more space for arts center activities, according to discus sions at the city.

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Debate Support for the Heritage Center was never unanimous during discussions of 2011 and 2012. The City Council vote was typically a 3-2 split, with council members Matt Lit tle, Laurie Rieb and Kerrin Swecker in support of and Mayor Mark Bellows and Council Member Colleen Ratzlaff LaBeau against it. LaBeau and Bellows were concerned about the cost of the project – both the con struction and the upkeep. Bellows also said he thought the project was not visionary enough, because it did not seem to accommo date future growth of the se nior demographic. Both also took issue with a bridge loan from the city, de signed to further the project while donations are raised. The supporters saw it as a way to honor the seniors, whose previous facility was aging and unable to host the depth and breadth of pro gramming Walter has orga nized. There are more than 216 programs per month. They also said that a new space for the historical society and a permanent space for Yellow Ribbon were muchneeded. The confluence of all three organizations in a build ing the city already owns add ed to the attraction for them. Anderson, sitting at her post in the front lobby, said she sees a great future for the new facility. “I think it’s going to be nice,” she said. The Heritage Center will host a grand-opening cer emony in two weeks. Aaron Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ecm-inc. com.

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Sports

September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Cougar volleyball growing Tigers football a winning team undefeated at midpoint into Young program has a record above .500 Farmington readies for Homecoming game

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

The Farmington football team is officially off to its best start since 2008 with an undefeated record at the midpoint of the regular season with more victories than the team had in all of 2011, 2010 and 2009. “We are very excited about the beginning of our season,” head coach Mark Froehling said. “With returning all-conference quarterback Darren Beenken and running back Athen Ashton and more returning starters than the last few years, we have been able to be more competitive to start the season.” With a 4-0 record and the fact that it’s homecoming on Friday, the buzz is as loud as ever. The Tigers will be up against a formidable Missota Conference opponent in Chaska (3-1) at home Friday night. The Hawks give up an average of 12.3 points while scoring

25.5 in four games this season. Chaska’s loss came against Chanhassen 18-7 on Sept. 7. Otherwise the team blew out Winona 35-7 on Aug. 30 and Red Wing 33-0 last week, and edged Shakopee 27-24 on Sept. 14. “They have a good mobile quarterback, they spread the field well offensively and they have a strong, athletic defense,” Froehling said. “We will need to play our best game to compete with this team.” Froehling is treating the game just like any other. “Homecoming is always a fun time in high school, but it can create distractions,” Froehling said. “We focus on our job as a football team to prepare like any other week for a big game on Friday.” The last Tiger victim was New Prague on Sept. 21 when Farmington avenged a 30-17 loss from a season ago. The Tigers took a 14-0

lead by halftime and held on to win 14-7. Beenken threw for 143 yards, a touchdown and an interception from the quarterback position. Mackinley Bassett caught the touchdown pass from 22 yards. The team’s leading rusher was once again Ashton, who had 125 yards and a touchdown off 25 carries. Still, Froehling feels the team has a better, more complete game in there. “We certainly haven’t played a perfect game and we need to continue to improve,” he said. Mason Auge had seven tackles, Gaylord Mason had six and Alex Chadwin totaled 5.5. The Tigers will make the trip to Chanhassen (2-2) on Oct. 5 and play host to Holy Angels (3-1) on Oct. 12. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

One senior and a few players with varsity experience rarely equals success in South Suburban Conference volleyball, but the Lakeville South team has managed a winning record after 17 games. “We’ve had our ups and downs,” head coach Steve Willingham said. “We’ve had stretches where we play really well and stretches when we’re cold. We’re happy with what the girls have been able to do.” The downs were expected when the Cougars went through stretch in midSeptember when it faced last year’s state champion Eden Prairie, top-ranked Lakeville North and highly-ranked Eagan, all losses. Four of the Cougars’ seven losses were against ranked teams in the top 10 in Class AAA at some point this season.

The girls stretched the Eden Prairie match to four games and beat a quality Prior Lake program 3-2 during that run, which impressed Willingham. “I’m happy with the record so far,” Willingham said. “We have a lot of young players, but we’re a little ahead of schedule.” Considering the team is starting mostly underclassmen playing varsity for the first time, a record above .500 has been a pleasant outcome. Setter Jazzmyn Tingelhoff had been the leader as the only senior on the court with varsity experience along with her sister sophomore Jade Tingelhoff. Samantha Kremer has emerged as a powerful outside hitter leading the team in kills against Eden Prairie with 14, and Willingham has liked the progress of young middle blockers Ashley Pratt and

Taylor Unke. The trouble has been the first contact on defense — getting the digs and blocks to set up the offense. “We’re young, but we still expect them to play really well,” Willingham said. “Sometimes they do some things that are real surprising, but sometimes they really get into a rhythm.” The girls play at a tournament at Cretin-Derham Hall this weekend before playing host to Bloomington Kennedy on Tuesday. The Section 3AAA tournament is scheduled to begin Oct. 23. “We just want to be playing our best by then,” Willingham said. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ ecm-inc.com or facebook. com/sunthisweek.

Undefeated Panthers win Eagle Invite Top-ranked volleyball team runs record to 14-0

“She’s been in the school for a while now and has worked out with our players. There’s never been an issue with that.” The Panthers swept Shakopee 25-17, 25-13, 25-20 in a non-conference match Monday night and returned to South Suburban Conference play Thursday at home against Eastview. North entered the week tied with Eagan for first in the SSC at 4-0. Lakeville North will play at Eagan on Oct. 16.

by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

Coming to Lakeville North, a school with state volleyball championship aspirations, could create a lot of pressure for a newcomer. Erica Handley, the Panthers’ new setter, doesn’t look at it that way. If anything, she said, the opposite is true. “On this team, there are a lot of great players and a lot of girls who can hit,” Handley said. “There’s not so much pressure on one player.” Handley, a senior, was an All-State player at Class 1A Win-E-Mac last season. She then moved to Lakeville and has been attending Lakeville North High School since January. She helped lead the Panthers to first place at the Eagle Invitational last weekend at Apple Valley High School. No. 1-ranked Lakeville North (14-0) beat Wayzata 25-18, 25-21 in the championship match. On its way to the title, North beat Marshall, the top-ranked team in Class 2A, and exacted a small measure of revenge against Eden Prairie, the team that beat the Panthers in five sets in the state Class 3A championship match last season. Lakeville North and Eden Prairie met again in the Eagle Invitational semifinals, and North won 25-21, 21-25, 15-11. It was in the first game against Eden Prairie that North faced – and passed – a character test. “We were down 8-1 in the first game,” Handley said. “Then we went on a sevenpoint run, came back and

Mader back on North bench

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville North’s Alyssa Goehner blocks a shot by Photo by Rick Orndorf Alexandria’s Adrianne Wensman during the Eagle Hailey Lonergan of Lakeville North goes up to hit the ball Invitational volleyball tournament in Apple Valley. The No. 1-ranked Panthers won the 15-team event and remained during the Eagle Invitational volleyball tournament last weekend in Apple Valley. undefeated this season. won the game.” “That’s a pretty good indication of this team’s toughness,” North coach Walt Weaver said. The Eagle Invitational is regarded as the state’s top regular-season tournament. The event, in its 35th year, attracted the No. 1-ranked team in each of the state’s three enrollment classes and six of the top eight in Class 3A. “It was a great weekend,” Handley said. “We had fun

and we won the tournament, which is what we wanted to do.” Even though Weaver lives in Lakeville, returning to the Apple Valley High School gym was something of a homecoming. He coached volleyball at Apple Valley for 31 years before retiring in 2006. He not only founded Apple Valley’s program, but the Eagle Invitational as well. In all of Weaver’s years at Apple Valley, his teams won

the ultra-competitive Eagle Invitational only once. But then he won it in his first attempt as Lakeville North’s coach. “Obviously no one’s going to question the amount of talent on our team,” he said. “This is a talented, experienced team that’s hard to play against. But we can still improve, and teams like Wayzata, Eden Prairie, Marshall and Eagan can challenge us.” Junior outside hitter Alys-

sa Goehner, the Panthers’ top player, had 18 kills in the two games against Wayzata. Hailey Lonergan, a senior middle hitter, had four kills. Senior Laura Larson and junior Abby Monson kept the Panthers organized on defense. “Those two are exceptionally talented in the back row, and really in every aspect of the game,” Weaver said. How did Handley fit in with that veteran group? “Perfectly,” Weaver said.

Milan Mader retired in the summer of 2011 after 35 years as head volleyball coach at Lakeville North, but he didn’t stay away from the Panthers’ bench for long. He’s back this season at Weaver’s request. Mader is a part-time volunteer assistant coach. “(Weaver) asked me, and I told him I’d be honored to come back,” said Mader, who coached the Panthers to the state Class 3A championship in 2010. He has a granddaughter playing ninth-grade volleyball at Lakeville South. He is attending North’s home matches and as many others as his schedule permits. “He not only built this program for 35 years, he’s coached an Olympian and more Division I regular players than I can count on two hands,” Weaver said. “And, he knows the school. Milan has a lot to offer.” Mike Shaughnessy is at mike.shaughnessy@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

A strange sight for Lakeville swimmers North, South practice together, compete against each other

by Andy Rogers Sun Thisweek

It was an odd situation for the Lakeville North and South swimming and diving teams at Kenwood Trail Middle School on Sept. 20. In some ways it was familiar. The Cougar and Panther girls swimmers were in the same pool. Not so strange because they practice with each other at the same time at the same pool with the same coaches. But this time they were cheering against each other, sort of, in a dual meet. There’s a winner and a loser. In every other rivalry match between Lakeville North and South, the winner gains

bragging rights. But the traditional handshakes give way to hugs at the end. “I would say that this meet is my least favorite of the season due to the fact that we work with all of the girls regardless of what school they are from,” Lakeville North coach Dan Schneider said. “How can I cheer against them when I want them all to succeed? That is something I can’t do.” Still, the girls on each team wanted to win. “It was very much like when brothers and sisters take each other on in family competitions,” Lakeville South head coach Rick

Ringeisen said. “You don’t back down and you give everything you have to do your best.” The pool was at capacity with many alumni attending. The programs were celebrating the fact that Ringeisen is now coaching his 100th high school sports season. He’s entering his 34th season coaching girls and boys swimming as well as track and field. “I was overwhelmed and deeply honored,” Ringeisen said. “The athletes felt the energy and tradition seeing so many of the alums and really responded.” The coaches have each

other’s teams scouted well after working with them in practice all season and often coaching them. Each coach does his own lineup, and then they’re posted to much excitement as the girls are anxious to see the matchups. “Going into the meet I knew Lakeville North would outlast us on team depth so I set up as many races as I could,” Ringeisen said. “The plan was to leave the pool that night a much better team than when we started the meet, and that is exactly what happened.” Lakeville North won 95.5-85.5, handing South its first dual loss of the season. Any Panther win is im-

pressive considering the team doesn’t have divers. “We are always down 13-0 before we start the meet,” Schneider said. “It makes it tougher to win.” The Panthers won seven events including the 200yard medley relay (Zoya Wahlstrom, Alena Bodnaruk, Erin Kleiner, Emily Spencer) and the 200 freestyle relay (Kleiner, Brenna Smith, Julia and Alena Bodnaruk). Other winners were Julia Bodnaruk (200 freestyle), Kleiner (50 freestyle), Wahlstrom (100 butterfly), Smith (100 freestyle) and Alena Bodnaruk (100 breaststroke), South won the 400 free-

style relay (Carrie Schrock, Brianna Alexander, Jarin Simpson, Shea Bougie). Other winners included Bougie (200 individual medley and 100 backstroke) and Alexander (500 freestyle). The Cougars are 4-1 in the South Suburban Conference, good for a secondplace tie with Lakeville North. Rosemount is in the lead with a 5-0 record. Lakeville North went up against Rosemount on Thursday, after Sun Thisweek’s deadline. Andy Rogers can be reached at andy.rogers@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

Up in the air until the final play

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Eagles edge Cougars when 2-point conversion falls short

by Mike Shaughnessy Sun Thisweek

Perhaps Apple Valley could have just held its three-touchdown lead and cruised to an easy victory, but where’s the fun in that? Why not give the fans a little suspense and a reason to stick around until the end of the game – and beyond? The Eagles’ 28-27 overtime victory over Lakeville South on Sept. 21 was filled with as many plot twists as a football game can deliver. Apple Valley took a 21-0 lead midway through the second quarter, then didn’t score another point until overtime. Lakeville South picked itself off the ground and got back in the game, but missed a field-goal attempt with 1:12 left in the fourth quarter that would have put the Cougars ahead. Apple Valley had two touchdowns called back because of penalties and lost a fumble near the Cougars’ goal line. Lakeville South was stacked up inches short of the goal line on a twopoint conversion attempt in overtime that, if successful, would have won the game. Just another Friday night in the South Suburban Conference, Apple Valley coach Mike Fritze said. “We had a lot of things go against us in this game, and to the kids’ credit, they came back,” Fritze said. “This was a great game for our kids to experience, where they had a little adversity and had to battle through it.” “Lakeville South’s a good team, and we knew they’d fight back,” said Apple Valley receiver Steven Wilson, one of the Eagles’ captains. “Then we were in trouble, and it was, ‘Look, are we giving up, or are we going to fight back right now?’ The way we responded, I loved it.”

Photo by Rick Orndorf

Apple Valley’s Quinn Hooks heads for the end zone on a 26yard first-quarter run against Lakeville South. Photo by Rick Orndorf

Lakeville South’s Branden Ordorff hands off to running back J.P. Haack during the first quarter of the Cougars’ 28-27 overtime loss to Apple Valley last Friday. Apple Valley had the pile of bodies formed at the first possession in overtime goal line before an official and scored in two plays, ran in and planted his foot both runs by senior Dom about six inches from the stripe, signaling that JohnMcDew-Stauffer. Lakeville South’s Jordan son did not reach the end Johnson then scored on a zone. 2-yard run on third down, “Our player said he was cutting Apple Valley’s lead in and got pushed back, but to one point. The Cougars that’s not how the official went for two points and the saw it,” South coach Larry victory, pitching to John- Thompson said. “We had son on a play similar to the two shots to win and just touchdown he just scored. A didn’t do it.”

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Thompson said the Cougars’ first-half lethargy was puzzling. At halftime, he said he spoke for two minutes, then all the South coaches left the locker room. Whatever the players said to each other must have worked, at least by the fourth quarter. South, trailing 21-3 at halftime, narrowly avoided falling further behind when defensive back Luke Benge

touchdown pass to Tyler Lattery. Lach then threw to Mark Ruhl for a two-point conversion, cutting Apple Valley’s lead to 21-18. On Apple Valley’s next possession, Seger intercepted a Tommy Singer pass and returned it to the Apple Valley 16. Moments later, Brendan Boche kicked a 28-yard field goal to tie the game. Lakeville South believed it had made a statement when it pounded Prior Lake 49-14 on the road in the second week of the season. But consecutive losses to Edina and Apple Valley have left the Cougars 1-3 overall and looking to regroup. They’ll play Burnsville (3-1) at home on Friday night. “We didn’t have a good first half at all” against Apple Valley, Thompson said. “But I saw a lot of intensity and character from our kids in the second half.”

recovered a McDew-Stauffer fumble in the Cougars’ end zone. South then went 80 yards in 13 plays, with Johnson scoring on an 8-yard run on the first play of the fourth quarter. Grant Seger then made two huge plays for South, the first a 52-yard punt return to Mike Shaughnessy is at mike. the Apple Valley 9-yard line shaughnessy@ecm-inc.com that set up Dylan Lach’s

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville

Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville September 28, 2012

ghosts, from 1A There’s the ghost of a suicide victim that haunts the Washington Street Bridge in Minneapolis. And in Duluth there’s the spirit of a recently deceased bar patron who still inhabits the saloon, looking for one last drink. Lewis will be sharing his scariest findings on Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Galaxie Library in Apple Valley. The 11 a.m. presentation, titled “Minnesota’s Most Haunted Locations,” will include ghost lore from Apple Valley and throughout the region. And, yes, Apple Valley has had its share of paranormal reports and rumors, accordtax rate, from 1A after his first year in office; he will continue at his $113,000 salary until his 2013 performance review. She said McKnight’s action was personally significant for her. With about 10 years before retirement, Houck is concerned Social Security will be depleted, and worries about her children and grandchildren’s financial future. “I personally feel he’s taking it to the realistic level, looking where that raise is coming from – the community’s pocketbook,” she said. “That extra, whatever it breaks down to – $5 or $10 per person – that could be a lot of money, it could be a gallon of milk and a box of cereal for somebody.”

Taxes rising Like other cities, Farmington’s property taxes have increased annually for years, and according to the 2009 city budget document, a goal during the city’s explosive growth years was to cap levy increases at a 10 percent maximum. Levy increases in Farmington have declined in recent years as the economy

ing to Lewis. One of the more prominent local ghost stories, he said, involves the spirit of a small boy who haunts Scott Park at Galaxie Avenue and 140th Street, a park whose amenities include a sledding hill and an archery range. “The details are sketchy,” Lewis said. “The legend is a kid died there – he was sledding and he was shot by an arrow – and he now haunts the park. But there’s no specific date and no specific time given with the story.” “I hope someone from Apple Valley will have some more details on that,” he added. As to the truth of the ghost tales he presents, Lewis leaves it to his readers, and his

audiences, to decide. “I try to sort fact from fiction, and I show people the evidence I’ve collected,” said Lewis, whose investigations also include UFOs, crop circles, Chupacabras and a host of other strange phenomena. “I want people to decide for themselves.” Admission is free to Lewis’ Galaxie Library presentation on Saturday but registration is required. Guests can register www.co.dakota.mn.us/ library under “Programs.” More about Lewis is at www.chadlewisresearch.com.

broke the big development trends of the last several decades. In 2011, Farmington’s levy rose by 3.42 percent; in 2010, the levy increased by 3.73 percent and in 2009, Farmington’s levy increase was 5 percent. On a split vote this month, the City Council approved a preliminary maximum levy increase of 2.84 percent for 2013; the school district is anticipating a flat levy, and Dakota County has passed a preliminary levy decrease of .20 percent. Funding the local levies falls almost entirely to homeowners in Farmington, as almost 90 percent of the city’s tax base is residential. Under Minnesota’s property tax system, commercial properties pay a greater percentage of the levy, but with fewer of those property types in the city, more of the levy is spread to residences. Business owners, too, have complained of significant property tax increases, and City Council members Jason Bartholomay and Julie May cited business’ increased tax burden as part of their reasons for casting the dissenting votes against the preliminary 2013 city levy. Farmington leaders have

targeted economic development as a major need in Farmington, and ways to attract business growth is a frequent campaign issue for candidates. Business leaders have also initiated and led initiatives like “Grow Farmington” to increase commercial development and stimulate local economy; a volunteer group “Ice for Tigers” have included economic development as a key feature of their plans to build a second sheet of ice at the city’s Schmitz-Maki Arena.

Andrew Miller can be reached at andrew.miller@ecm-inc. com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

By the numbers To calculate property tax, the tax capacity value of each property (typically 1 percent of a home’s taxable market value) is multiplied by the tax rate, the rate needed from each property classification to collect the levy amount set by entities including the county, city and school district. Farmington’s total tax capacity rate, including city, school and county, in 2012 was 1.5 percent, the highest in Dakota County, resulting in higher property taxes than neighboring cities, according to the county assessor’s office. Lakeville properties in-

levy, from 1A who had been laid off. Enrollment was 150 students higher than the district anticipated for the 2012-2013 school year. It is too early to predict the financial benefit of the larger-than-anticipated enrollment this year, Klett said. Though more students does mean more funding typically from the state. Massaros said there is no reason to celebrate when taking a longview. “The concern I have is what the numbers illustrate in kindergarten,” he said. He projected 676 stucluded in Farmington School District have the highest tax capacity rates in that city, according to county records: While Lakeville properties in School Districts 194 and 196 have a total tax capacity rate between 1.03 percent and 1.08 percent, the properties in Farmington’s school district have a total tax rate of 1.3 percent. Tax capacity rates in Apple Valley, Burnsville, Eagan, Lakeville and Rosemount range between 1.02 percent to 1.3 percent; Eagan’s tax capacity rate is 0.99 percent. In Farmington, the city’s portion of the tax capacity rate is .63 percent, second only to Hastings, which has a city tax capacity rate of .66, according to Dakota County. In comparison, Apple Valley’s tax capacity rate is .44 percent; Burnsville is .43 percent; Eagan is at .34 percent and Lakeville’s is .39 percent. School district tax capacity rates in Dakota County vary widely, including .21 in parts of Apple Valley and Eagan to .55 percent in Lakeville schools and some areas of Rosemount. Most of Farmington’s School District 192 tax capacity rate is .42 percent.

dents, but enrollment is at 613. Couple that with the 899 seniors who will leave the district and what exists is a demographic reality supporting previous predictions of an enrollment decline trend.

Progress report The state of Minnesota has a waiver from the sanctions and some requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act, but Lakeville is still required to administer the same tests and meet progress goals. The original goal of 100 percent proficiency in reading and math by 2014 has been replaced by a Falling property values also affect property taxes charged residents, said Dakota County Assessor’s Office Manager Gloria Pinke. “If a tax base is 5 percent lower than it was the year before, and you’re collecting they same money … the rate has to increase to garner that same amount of levy,” Pinke said. Property values across the county have all dropped significantly in recent years. Between taxes payable 2008 and payable 2013 the median value home in Mendota Heights lost $83,100 worth of value; in Lakeville and Rosemount the median home’s value dropped by $66,100 and

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goal to close the achievement gap between demographic groups over the next few years. The district’s students were tested last school year. They met all 80 targets for math and missed only one of 80 in reading, according to a report from Jason Molesky, director of program evaluation and accountability. There are 10 graduation targets, which Molesky said the students missed one. Aaron M. Vehling can be reached at aaron.vehling@ ecm-inc.com or facebook.w

$66,000, respectively, a recent fact sheet from Rosemount shows. The document also found Farmington’s median-value home lost $64,100 in value over the same period; in Burnsville, the loss was $60,400; Apple Valley, $55,600 and in Eagan, $54,500. For Houck, raising taxes is a concern she carries daily. “It’s getting tighter,” Houck said. “We can still pay our taxes, but you second-think everything you’re doing, because I need this much more for taxes.” Laura Adelmann is at laura. adelmann@ecm-inc.com or facebook.com/sunthisweek.

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September 28, 2012 Sun Thisweek - Farmington - Lakeville