CONTRIBUTED
71% of women in domestic violence shelters report their abuser threatened, injured or killed a pet.
Nearly half of victims choose to stay in abusive situations rather than leave their pets behind.
Nearly 1 in 4 victims return to an abusive situation due to fear over their pet’s safety
Nearly 48% of victims delayed leaving an abusive relationship for fear of pet safety.
52% of survivors in shelters leave their pets with their abusers.
Source: Red Rover
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Press Publications shared survivor Candice Amundson’s story about domestic violence a couple of years ago, but there is one story that has yet to be told — the story of an English bulldog named Linus.
“We always talk about the humans and the people, but we never really think about the animals,” Amundson said. Amundson adopted Linus in 2016 as a puppy at the time her son was around 3 1/2 years old.
“He did everything with us. We took him everywhere,” she recalled.
Amundson wasn’t the only
one who spent eight years of her life living in constant fear. The incident that ended it all was when her then-partner not only tried to strangle her, but also their child. (See “Domestic Violence Awareness Month: First step is talking about it,” Oct. 12, 2022.)
SEE LINUS’ PET HAVEN, PAGE 2
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Planning for a three-story, 89-unit apartment building will move forward. HW1, LLC (Summit Management, LLC) is proposing to develop a 13-acre property located west of Everton Avenue and south of Rosemary Way to be known as Frenchman Place 5th Addition.
Summit Management is requesting: a comprehensive plan amendment to change the land use from Commercial (COM) to High Density Residential (HD); a rezoning of the property from General Business (C-2) to Medium Density Multiple Family Residential (R-5); a site plan and conditional use permit (CUP) for an 89-unit three-story apartment building of approximately 100,000 square feet, plus attached and detached parking garages; a CUP for the apartment use (apartments are allowed in the city’s multifamily zoning district with a CUP); a preliminary plat of the property to have the apartments on a separate parcel from a proposed public park; and a variance to allow the apartment building to be 39 feet in height, where 35 feet is allowed by the ordinance.
“The developer has done a good job with the overall site plan and the general design of the building. Staff will continue to work with the developer on the required revisions to the plans and architecture,” explained City Planner Rachel Juba. “Staff finds that the proposal meets all the requirements necessary
SEE FRENCHMANPLACE, PAGE 9
Ooftah, or should we say Woofda? Centerville resident Taylor Fairchild has launched her own pet accessory company, Woofda & Co. She started making dog collars during the height of the pandemic in 2020 but decided to share her creations with more than just family and friends after she received a positive reaction to her creations.
Press Publications recently interviewed Fairchild to learn more about Woofda & Co.
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A. I was born here in Minnesota and currently work as an infant teacher while pursuing a degree in photography. I am also the owner of WoofDa & Co. Driven by
a lifelong passion for pets, I aspire to become a wildlife or pet photographer upon graduation. Outside of work and studies, I enjoy houseplants, rock collecting, camping, caring for my axolotls and dog, and transforming a school bus into a camper! I am particularly excited to marry my best friend this October.
SEE WOOFDA & CO, PAGE 5
Centerville resident Taylor Fairchild was frustrated by the high prices of dog accessories, so she decided to make her own.
“(Linus) was there with us when it happened and didn’t stand by my side and protect me; he ran away and he was hiding under a table,” Amundson recalled. Linus, who had experienced abuse himself before, was afraid. After that incident, if there was ever a loud noise, Linus would run and hide in the bathroom or under a table. “I saw firsthand how domestic violence can affect an animal,” she said. “Being in an environment where it’s unknown and people are yelling or people are hurting people, it’s really scary for them.”
Amundson never sought shelter because she didn’t want to leave Linus behind.
“There was a lot of retaliation, and I think power and control around the dog,” she explained. “I believe that if we would have left and left the dog behind, something could have happened to him … I knew that it wasn’t going to be an option to leave him.”
One day, Amundson went to Alexandra House’s campus in Blaine and had a vision of making the shelter pet-friendly. She did some research and stumbled across the Greater Good Charities on RedRover. She took a six-hour course on how to make the domestic violence shelter pet-friendly and then pitched the idea to Alexandra House.
Tina Bronson, director of mission advancement at Alexandra House, said it has long been a dream of the organization to do something like that, but it has been difficult to secure the necessary funding.
“We have been talking about this for years. We were trying to do a capital campaign to do this back in 2017 when we lost our United Way funding,” she recalled. Ultimately, Alexandra House will need approximately $15 million to renovate and expand its Blaine campus to create a shelter with individual residential units.
Alexandra House continues to look for funding and grant options, but it has successfully secured nearly $100,000 and will break ground on Linus’ Pet Haven on Sept. 9.
Linus’ Pet Haven will be a full-service pet refuge that can house six pets (cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, etc.) while the family seeks housing for themselves or other temporary care for pets. In partnership with the Animal Humane Society, Linus’ Pet Haven will provide co-sheltering, routine veterinary care, enrichment areas for families and pets to interact, and outdoor runs for exercise and relief. Alexandra House is seeking additional rescue and low-cost veterinary partners to support the initiative.
Bronson says Alexandra House typically gets about three to five requests each month from survivors who are looking to leave their abusers but have a pet they would like to bring with them. “We have had to tell them that we are not set up for that … and we never hear from them again, and that is devastating,” she said. “We had one survivor who left to go grocery shopping and was planning to leave but hadn’t said anything, and while she was gone the abuser killed their dog.”
Linus’ Pet Haven will be the first of its kind in the Twin Cities. There are many options when it comes to housing pets, but most of those require people to be separated from their pets. “They are part of the family,” Bronson explained. “We know that having animals with us is healing and therapeutic … they can heal better together than alone.”
Linus’ Pet Shelter is anticipated to open in January 2025. For more information, visit www. alexandrahouse.org.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
When: 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9
Where: Alexandra House’s Blaine Campus, located at 10065 Third Street NE, Blaine
Details: Community members are invited to join Alexandra House in marking a significant milestone and show their support for a pet-safe shelter for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Attendees are encouraged to bring new toys, blankets, dog beds, collars, leashes or other supplies.
Contact: For more information, or to donate, visit www.alexandrahouse.org.
When: 10-11:55 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 12
Where: Shoreview Community Center Fireside Lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Nonprofit friendship group for older women in the suburbs invites prospective members to learn about activities.
Contact: 612-616-6142 or 651-500-7793 (text only)
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12: 45 p.m. Thursday Sept. 5, and every 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday of each month.
Where: Rice Lake Centre in Hugo, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin promptly at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee will be served. All senior citizens from the area are invited. Join us and bring a friend.
Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com
MAHTOMEDI AREA FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Sept. 28 Where: Veterans Memorial Park Details: Local growers, artisans, community resources.
Contact: mahtomedimarket.wixsite.com/mahtmarket
WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Friday through Oct. Where: Clark Street between Second and Third Streets Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week. Contact: whitebearlake.org
LAKE LINKS ASSOCIATION BIKE RIDE AROUND THE LAKE
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: Saputo Station rest stop, Bellaire Beach Details: Family-friendly, guided 10-mile bike tour around White Bear Lake with groups departing every 10 minutes. Contact: lakelinks.net
TASTE OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
When: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road
Details: Sample food and beverages from local establishments while supporting White Bear Rotary programs. Also music, silent auction, games and more. Information online. Contact: tasteofwhitebearlake.com
WASHINGTON COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
When: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Details: Bring lawn chairs or blankets for a familyfriendly afternoon of live bluegrass music. Food trucks and face painting. No animals or alcohol. Contact: washingtoncountymn.gov/1559/BluegrassFestival
FRIDAY NIGHT TRIVIA
When: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6
Where: St. Jude of the Lake Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave.
Details: Teams compete for prizes. Pizza, beer, wine and other treats for sale. Register in advance or show up.
Contact: stjudeofthelake.org/cornfest-2024/ 40TH ANNUAL CORNFEST
When: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: St. Jude of the Lake Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave.
Details: Community event with food, live music, bingo, raffles, bake sale, inflatables, contests and corn. Contact: 651-426-3245 or stjudeofthelake.org/ cornfest-2024/
MUSIC ON THE LAWN CONCERT SERIES
When: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8
Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St.
Details: Worship ad live music featuring Salsa del Sol and Shai Hayo. All are welcome. Bring blanket or lawn chair.
Contact: 651-429-9026
UNDERSTANDING TEENS AND MENTAL HEALTH
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10
Where: Living Waters Lutheran Church, 865 Birch St., Lino Lakes
Details: Join in on an educational opportunity to learn about typical teen development, potential concerns/ risks and how to navigate mental health struggles. Attendees should RSVP.
Contact: https://tinyurl.com/2vkh3mmj
CAREGIVER EDUCATION: CONSIDERATIONS FOR A MOVE
When: 3-4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11
Where: Zoom
Details: Learn about what to expect when moving someone with dementia, and living options. Register by 10 a.m. day of event.
Contact: 651-632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org
23RD ANNUAL BEAR WATER RUN
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
Where: Ramsey County Beach, 5050 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Ten or 20-mile course options around White Bear Lake. Event benefits the White Bear Lake Lion’s Club programs. See details and registration information online.
Contact: whitebearlions.org/bear-water-run
BALD EAGLE LAKE ART CRAWL
When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
Where: Locations around Bald Eagle Lake Details: Visit with a variety of artists, crafters and musicians around the lake. Free.
Contact: belartcrawl.com
FROM BARRY: THE PERFECT POP SONGS OF BARRY GIBB AND THE BEE GEES
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.
Details: Mick Sterling presents the early work of the Gibb brothers in a tribute concert. Ticket information online.
Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
MOVIE IN THE PARK
When: Dusk, Sept. 14
Where: Polar Lakes Park,1280 Hammond Road, White Bear Township
Details: Bring a lawn chair or banket and bug spray and watch a free family-friendly movie outdoors. “Migration” shows on Sept. 14. See weather updates on facebook.
Contact: facebook.com/ WhiteBearTownshipMNOfficialSite
LEARN TO STAND UP PADDLEBOARD
When: 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve Details: Instruction followed by time on the water. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
ONE LAST TRI
When: 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 15
Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Ave. Details: Four race options include shortened swim, longer bike through horse country, and run along the lake. Barbecue follows race. Ages 10+. Details and registration information online.
Contact: mmraces.com/one-last-tri
FAT TIRE BIKING
When: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve Details: Learn about fat tire biking with equipment provided. Ages 15+. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
Having a community event in the future? Contact us today to submit your event to What’s Happening. Call 651-407-1200 or email calendar@presspubs.com
One of my coping mechanisms when it feels like summer is slipping away too quickly is to add the month of September as a buffer to help moderate any sinking feelings of despair. We no longer have the luxury of the extended early evening light, but for the most part, the weather is equally if not nicer than during the peak of summer. There are no guarantees, but over the years, I’d have to say that the positive experiences traveling and camping out during slower and off-peak times of the year far outweigh any negative ones. By rolling the dice on a trip earlier or later in the season, you can be rewarded with lighter traffic, less crowding and fewer insects, including mosquitoes.
I have stellar early season memories of camping with friends up in Voyageurs National Park not long after the winter ice melted on Namakan and Kabetogama lakes. The only insects we had to deal with on one paddling excursion were the fireflies lighting up the woods behind our island campsite, creating an idyllic scene resembling a theatrical set. A late season October trip out to Yellowstone National Park, many years ago, included snow but also exceptional wildlife sightings that would not be possible any other time of the year. More than a decade before mobile phones came into use; while using a phone booth near a parking lot at Mammoth Hot Springs to place a call to my parents, I was suddenly surrounded by a herd of more than a dozen elk. It was mating season, and the males were jousting with each other and making throaty, highpitched bugling sounds. My parents expressed their surprise and disbelief as I described the chaotic situation taking place outside the phone booth that enclosed me. Thankfully, the herd had other priorities and moved on just as suddenly as they had appeared. Before or since, I’ve never witnessed the behavior of a group of wild animals in such close proximity. The timing of an off-season December hike in the Grand Canyon was like walking through different climate zones. The heat can be deadly in the summer months, but the early winter temperature at the top of the canyon got down to zero at night while the temperature at Phantom Ranch, a historic oasis at the bottom of the canyon, was a moderate 50 degrees. During the hike out, the air at the bottom of the canyon rushed upward through the landscape and created a strong, warm breeze at sunset. At a relatively early age I was introduced to the concept of leaving a campsite in the same, if not better, condition than how you found it. The National Park Service provides more specifics to this overall concept with the Leave No Trace Seven Principles which include: plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife and be considerate of other visitors.
According to the National Park Service website, these principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on previous studies by the US Forest Service, National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management. The principles are based on and informed by scientific research in the fields of recreation ecology and the ways humans value, use and depend on the natural environment. Some of these principles can be referenced and applied in our daily lives. Specifically, I believe some of the friction and frustration that sometimes occurs on and around shared public spaces like parks, lakes and the growing number of multi-use trails in the area could be lessened by knowledge of the rules and simply practicing awareness of our surroundings and consideration for others.
Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-4071238
Wayne Kazmierczak
s the school year begins, we are excited to open our newly renovated White Bear Lake Area High School— one campus welcoming all students grades 9-12. The new state-of-theart facility will expand student opportunities, inspire innovative instruction, and continue to welcome community members for more after-school activities. It’s awe-inspiring to reflect on how far we’ve come and more importantly — where we’re headed in the future White Bear Lake Area Schools. At the cusp of a new era, it’s clear that our district has been on a transformative journey to a future we’ve designed together.
There is an old adage: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Well, we’ve created it. And it is excellent! Let’s embrace it!
In a rapidly changing world, each student is best served when they have an opportunity to realize their unique talents and abilities and design their own future. Personalizing education is at the heart of building relationships for our exceptional staff, who are fully committed to student success.
More than five years ago, our community came together to envision the future for our children and our schools. We imagined trans-
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forming the way teachers teach and children learn. In 2019, our community approved the Building Our Future bond referendum, which upgraded and transformed every school.
We have undergone a remarkable transformation, resulting from strategic planning and community engagement that laid the foundation in 2018. We embarked on a journey to rebuild and redesign our schools to meet the needs of future learners. We are now about 90% complete with construction, with only a few projects left before we fully realize the vision we set out to achieve.
Our focus this year is to “Embrace the Future.” It is a call to action for every team member. This isn’t just about adapting to change but about owning the future we have collectively created. From new teacher development frameworks to innovative high school scheduling that maximizes student choice, we are not merely keeping pace with change but driving it.
In the past five years, we’ve made incredible strides in advancing our Strategic Plan priorities. Our focus on creating a safe and nurturing environment for all students focuses on connection, high-quality instruction, and educational excellence. Central to our mission is personalizing education and ensuring each student realizes their unique talents and abilities.
We are also rethinking how we engage students in their learning. We’ve been shifting from traditional lecture-based instruction to more personalized, inquiry-based learning experiences. This ap-
proach aligns with our mission and prepares students to take ownership of their education and, ultimately, their futures. Our new high school program, which increases access to rigorous courses prioritizes student choice and flexibility, a significant step in this direction. It’s a shift requiring us to reevaluate every aspect of our instruction, ensuring that we push the envelope on what matters most: academic excellence.
Educating the future leaders of our communities, businesses, healthcare systems and government is not easy, but it is vital. We must continue to innovate, push the boundaries of what public education can be, and ensure that every student in our district has the opportunity to excel. This year, all eyes will be on White Bear Lake Area Schools. Our community’s investments in education are significant, and we are prepared to deliver on our promises.
As we embark on this new school year, I am optimistic and hopeful. We have the talent, resources, and commitment to meet the challenges ahead and lead by example. We are a district embracing the future. Together, we will continue to build a school system that truly reflects our shared vision of educational excellence.
We’ve designed the opportunities. Let’s make this year one of the best yet for White Bear Lake Area Schools. Go achieve. Go excel. Go Bears!
Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak is the superintendent of White Bear Lake Area Schools
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• City staff has received a request from Denise Goiffon on behalf of her mother, Kitty, for permission from the city to exhume and remove her son’s urn and headstone from the Walker Cemetery. The urn was buried there by the father of Dennis Goiffon after Dennis’s death in 2009. The family would now like to relocate the urn and headstone to St. John’s Cemetery.
Staff has confirmed the headstone is on the cityowned cemetery property approximately 18-20 feet within the southwest property lines. Hugo City Code requires written approval of the city prior to any disinterment at the Walker Cemetery.
• The city continues to pay for the 125th/Dellwood Ridge neighborhood improvement project. Most recently, the council approved payment no. 3 for $371,766 to Dresel Contracting for work certified through July. The final layer of asphalt has been placed along 125th Street and work continues along Heather and Upper Heather Avenues.
• Schwieters Properties has requested approval of development sign criteria and an encroachment agreement. Development sign criteria allows for
Winter is a sweet, gentle and intelligent young lady who has a heart full of love that she is ready to share with her new forever person or family. Winter is a German shepherd/border collie mix and she is full of energy. If you are looking for a walking, jogging or hiking partner, then Winter is looking for you. She is very smart and a quick learner. Winter mastered learning her basic commands in no time at all, and she is anxious to learn more. She is about one year old and weighs just under 60 pounds.
flexibility for multitenant buildings and campus developments. Schwieters would like to locate freestanding signs within the right of way of Fenway Boulevard North. The locations have been reviewed by city staff and staff is comfortable with the locations.
• Summit Management, LLC is proposing to develop a 13-acre property located west of Everton Avenue and south of Rosemary Way to be known as Frenchman Place 5th Addition. The property has 4.09 acres of wetlands on site. The development will result in 0.43 acres of wetland impact. The applicant is proposing to replace the impacts to the wetland basin though the purchase of wetland credits from an approved wetland bank.
• A joint workshop with the City Council and Planning Commission is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12. The purpose of the workshop is to discuss the solar ordinance related to solar farms as well as residential zoning text amendments.
Shannon Granholm
Winter is social with other dogs and cats, and she is friendly to everyone she meets. Winter is playful and her favorite activity is fetch. She is leash trained and likes to go on walks and she likes to go for car rides. Winter is eager to please and will quickly become your best friend. She arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a reservation. If you are interested in learning more about Winter or adopting her, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org.
LWV hosts event on decline of local news
White Bear Lake League of Women Voters (LWV) will host “Decline of Local News and Its Impact on Democracy” from 6:15 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, at the social hall in the Maplewood Ramsey County Library.
The LWV of the United States and of Minnesota have both adopted a new concurrence on local news using a three-year study by LWV of Washington State. Dee Anne Finken and Lyn Whitley, who were
The North Suburban Neighbors Club (NSNC) will host a club social from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Sept. 12, in the Fireside Lounge at the Shoreview Community Center, located at 4580 Victoria St. N.
The NSNC is a nonprofit friendship organization for older women in the northern suburbs. Prospective members are invited to learn about the club and its activities. Bring your own coffee, and the club will supply the cookies and conversation.
involved with the study, will present highlights. Charlie Weaver, co-publisher and executive director of the Minnesota Daily at the University of Minnesota, will provide some hands-on strategies on reversing the decline of local news. The last speaker will be from Press Forward Minnesota, a statewide movement to recenter local journalism as a force for community cohesion, civic participation and government accountability, with a focus on racial equity.
For more information, visit https://lwv-wbla.org.
For more information, contact 612-616-6142 or 651500-7793.
The Washington County Historical Society will host a program featuring Madeline Johnson, Minnesota’s first female lieutenant governor, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 9, at the Washington County Heritage Center. The evening will include a conversational interview
minor subdivision request from Craig Anderson, 15550 Jeffrey Avenue North, Hugo, MN 55038. The request is to subdivide a 20-acre parcel into two 10-acre parcels. The property is not addressed, but is generally located west of Jeffrey Avenue North and north of 152nd Street North. The property legally described as that part of the South Half of the Northeast Quarter of Section 14, Township 31, Range 21, Washington County, Minnesota. Full legal description available at Hugo City Hall. The conditional use permit (CUP) request from Scott Neamy, 17220 Keystone Avenue North, Hugo, MN 55038 to construct an accessory apartment within the house in order to provide care to an elderly family member. Accessory apartments are allowed within the AG zoning district with a CUP. The property is generally located west of Keystone Avenue North and north of 170th Street North. The property is legally described as the North Half of
Week of August 25 – 31, 2024 Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories
1. Elevated bacteria levels detected at White Bear Lake beach. White Bear Press > News
2. New shop owner seeks to empower women. White Bear Press > News
3. Stillwater boy dies after Lily Lake swim; amoeba suspected. Lowdown > News (2012 archive story)
4. Introducing the new Lino Lakes Ambassadors. Quad Community Press > News
5. White Bear Lake Area High School Community Open House. White Bear Press > Featured
Press Publications’ website www.presspubs.com for stories from the
and
that highlights Johnson’s career and celebrate the launch of her new book, “Rise to the Challenge: A Memoir of Politics, Leadership & Love.” Books will be available for purchase at the event.
The program is free to the public. Reservations are required. Visit wchsmn.org/event/marlene to reserve your spot. For questions, contact Washington County Heritage Center Site Manager Emily Krawczewski at emily.krawczewski@wchsmn.org or 651-439-2298. The Heritage Center is located at 1862 Greeley St. S., Stillwater.
CHURCH DIRECTORY Find
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville
Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents:
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies escorted two juveniles home past curfew, after encountering them at the Kwik Trip in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 2:28 a.m. July 20.
• A motorist was arrested for DWI at 1:21 p.m. July 20 on 152nd Street N. and Freeland Avenue N., after being pulled over for speeding 54 mph in a 35 mph zone. During the traffic stop, deputies noticed signs of impairment and made the subject complete field sobriety tests. After the driver submitted a blood alcohol content of 0.12 on the portable breath test, he was taken in.
• A stolen Apple watch was reported mapping to an address in the 4000 block of 162nd Court N. at 4:01 p.m. July 21.
• A suspicious vehicle reported at 4:20 p.m. July 21 parked in a driveway in the 6000 block of 150th Street N. turned out to belong to a friend.
• Deputies conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle passing in the right turn lane at the intersection of Forest Blvd. N. and Egg Lake Road at 5:42 p.m. July 21 and cited the motorist for that offense. Deputies cited another motorist at 5:59 p.m. that evening on Forest Blvd. N. and 165th Street N. for undisclosed offenses.
• After a late afternoon storm July 22, numerous trees and branches were reported down in the middle of roads, including at 5:42 p.m. on Henna Avenue N. and 128th Street N. and at 6:21 p.m. on 129th Drive N. and Flay Road N. The Public Works Department was called to clear the roads.
At 5:57 p.m., a sewer manhole cover at 135th Street N. and Fletcher Lane N. was reported being blown open due to the excess rain. Deputies replaced the cover.
• A boys’ mountain bike was reported stolen at 1:25 p.m. July 23 from the 15000 block of Farnham Avenue N. The bike was later recovered at Lions Park, and deputies located the suspect, who admitted to the theft. The youth received a juvenile citation for misdemeanor theft.
• Deputies issued a citation to a motorist for expired registration at 5:29 p.m. July 23 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N.
• Extra patrols were ordered in the 7000 block of 165th Street N., after a woman reported an unknown male for approaching her and making lewd comments at 9:15 p.m. July 23.
• A garage door opener was reported stolen at 5:35 a.m. July 24 from the 14000 block of Ferrara Avenue N. A necklace was reported stolen at 8:29 a.m. July 24 following a burglary in the 5000 block of 142nd Street N.
• A resident in the 4000 block of Victor Path N. at 11:58 a.m. July 24 reported receiving a phishing email from a gmail account requesting updated information on her bank accounts. The complainant recognized the scam and did not respond to the phishing attempt.
• Residents in the 14000 block of Finale Avenue N. at noon July 24 reported an unknown person for entering their home while they were occupying it. Nothing was taken. A resident in the 14000 block of Ferrara Avenue N. at 3:30 p.m. July 24 reported that someone had entered his vehicle. Vehicle tampering without damage was reported at 8:04 p.m. July 25 in the 14000 block of Ferrara Avenue N.
Washington County partners with counties for 2025 survey
Washington County will work with Dakota, Olmsted and St. Louis counties
• A Minnesota motorist was cited for driving without a license and speeding 71 mph in a 55 mph zone at 4:44 p.m. July 24 westbound on 170th Street N., and Ingersoll Avenue N., by eastbound deputies on patrol, who clocked the vehicle on radar. During the traffic stop, the driver said he couldn’t find his driver’s license. After deputies referred to their squad computer, they realized the driver didn’t have any license at all and went back to talk to the motorist. When deputies asked the driver whether he was sure he held a driver’s license, the suspect came clean and admitted he only had a permit. After the driver apologized for not having been truthful from the start, he was made to leave his vehicle at the side of the road and await a valid driver to transport him.
• A sergeant of the Lino Lakes Police Department at 9:27 p.m. July 24 reported that one of their local businesses had located stolen credit cards from an incident at an undisclosed address in Hugo earlier in the day.
• Residents in the 15000 block of Glenbrook Avenue N. at 9:11 p.m. July 25 reported juveniles trespassing on their property while being disrespectful and threatening. Deputies arrived on scene to have a word or two with the youths and with one of the parents on scene.
• An unidentified male was arrested on a warrant at 4:43 p.m. July 26 at the intersection of Oneka Parkway N. and 149th Street N.
• A suspicious male reported for sitting on a bench in front of the Festival Foods store in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 2:47 a.m. July 27 turned out to be a male fixing his motorized skateboard. Deputies advised the male that the business was closed and to continue fixing his skateboard, as long as he did nothing involving the store.
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies at 3:36 a.m. July 28 initiated an investigation of a suspicious vehicle parked on the side of the road near Foster Drive N. and Farnham Avenue N. that turned out to be filled with juveniles “just hanging out.”
Deputies advised the youths to leave the park, as it was well after curfew.
• A suspicious male was reported at 7:56 a.m. July 28 walking toward the complainant’s driveway in the 5000 block of 141st Court N. Once the male saw the complainant, he pivoted around and returned to his vehicle to leave.
• Deputies issued a speeding citation to a motorist on 170th Street N. and Henna Avenue N. at 3:29 p.m. July 28. They issued a traffic citation to another motorist at 9:20 p.m. July 29 on Forest Blvd. N. and 147th Street N.
• A third traffic citation was issued at 10:55 p.m. July 29 on Main Street and Otter Lake Road. To round out July, a fourth motorist was cited for semaphore violation at 9:48 a.m. July 31 in the 13000 block of Forest Blvd. N.
• A business in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 11:16 a.m. July 29 reported a burglary that had occurred over the weekend, with damage to the property and multiple items stolen. Another burglary was reported at 4:29 p.m. Aug. 1 in the 13000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. A third burglary was reported at 5:04 p.m. Aug. 1 in the 16000 block of Henna Avenue N.
• Two juvenile females were reported at 8:00 p.m. July 29 for flipping the bird to the complainant while at a park in the 5000 block of Farnham Drive N., as part of an ongoing issue. These girls had been known to continuously harass the complainant’s daughter.
to conduct its 2025 resident survey. Washington County periodically surveys its residents to gather information about the services it provides. Washington County partnered with several Minnesota counties in 2006, 2008, 2013, 2016, 2019
The bird-flipping girls were reported to have returned home when deputies arrived on scene.
• A person who was likely locked out of places at 1:44 p.m. July 30 reported losing a set of keys somewhere in Hugo, after leaving the keys on the roof of a vehicle and driving off.
• A group of suspicious individuals reported for standing on the road in the dark at 11:25 p.m. July 30 on 170th Street N. and Elmcrest Avenue turned out to be stranded occupants of a vehicle that was awaiting the tow truck. Deputies kept the party company until the tow truck arrived.
• Can the start of school be far away?
Residents in the 4000 block of 158th Street N. at 3:14 a.m. July 31 reported juveniles knocking on their door and setting off fireworks in the area.
• A theft in progress was reported at 5:33 a.m. Aug. 1 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. The suspect left the scene in a vehicle before deputies arrived.
• A resident in the 15000 block of Fanning Drive N. at 7:10 a.m. Aug. 1 reported finding and recovering her own stolen vehicle in Crystal.
• A vehicle parked in the 14000 block of Jardine Avenue N. at 9:53 a.m. Aug. 1 received a citation under its windshield for being on a public roadway while displaying tabs that expired in March.
• A resident in the 13000 block of Goodview Avenue N. at 5:26 p.m. Aug. 2 reported receiving a suspicious parcel disguised as an Amazon package in the mail that she thinks was an attempt at fraud. The package was asking the recipient to deposit a check, which was not found. The complainant suffered no monetary loss but was advised to contact Amazon and the post office.
• Three juvenile females were reported for entering the closed Peder Pedersen Pavilion in the 5000 block of Upper 146th Street N. at 9:16 p.m., after employees had secured the building. The girls left when the complainant asked them to, but they told the complainant they knew the passcode and proved it.
When deputies arrived, the building was secure and the girls had left, unlikely to return, as the passcode had been updated.
• With only a few days left before school starts, a group of juveniles were reported for driving a golf cart around Fondant Trail N. and 126th Street N. at 9:24 p.m. Aug. 2.
• The August slate of traffic citations begins at 11:15 p.m. Aug. 2 with an equipment ticket on 122nd Street N. at July Avenue N. A second motorist was cited at 1:05 p.m. Aug. 3 on Goodview Avenue N. and Egg Lake Road N. for speeding 47 mph in a 35 mph zone. A third motorist was cited at 4:35 p.m. Aug. 3 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for expired registration and a malfunctioning driver’s side brake light.
• A suspicious vehicle reported at 4:10 a.m. Aug. 3 in a park in the 7000 block of 137th Street N. turned out to be a woman rolling up to let her dogs out for a run. When deputies advised the woman about park hours, she and her dogs left the scene.
Loretta Harding
and 2022. By partnering with other counties, there is a cost savings and the ability to compare outcomes on a national scale and locally with peer agencies.
The joint powers agreement includes the scope of services, cost sharing
and the delegation of authority for Dakota County to act as the fiscal agent on behalf of the partners. The four counties have proposed contracting with Polco/National Research Center to administer the survey.
Q. When did you launch WoofDa & Co., and how did it come about?
A. I officially launched WoofDa & Co. here in Centerville in October 2023, although I designed and created my first collar during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The inspiration for WoofDa & Co. came from my dog, Kota. I was frustrated by the high cost of bland, solid-colored collars and, fueled by my love for sewing, I decided to make my own. The positive response from my family encouraged me to share my creations with the world!
Q. What sort of things do you make? Do you make products for both dogs and cats?
A. At WoofDa & Co., we offer a variety of pet prod-
ucts, including collars, leashes, bandanas, bows and bow ties. We are also in the process of developing waste bag holders for leashes and preparing to launch a new line of dog treats. We do have cat collars that have also been well received.
Q. Tell us about the name and how you came up with it.
A. The name WoofDa & Co. is a nod to the Minnesotan phrase “Uff Da!” I wanted to share my Minnesota pride through my business.
Q. What makes your items unique from other products on the market?
A. Our products are distinguished by their unique
designs, durability and customizable hardware options. We are currently testing a selection of collars with custom embroidered names.
Q. Where can people find your items? Do you sell in any local markets or shops or online?
A. I actively participate in local markets, which provide a wonderful opportunity to meet many wonderful people and their pets. You can also find us on Facebook or our website at WoofDaCo.com.
Compiled by Shannon Granholm
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Incoming students and their families will have their first encounter with White Bear Lake Area High School Principal Russ Reetz during the back-toschool events, his face as fresh to them as the new building, but White Bear Lake Area High School’s new principal has already been working with staff and administration for a year! “We understood how complex it would be to combine those two schools,” said Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald states, “The buildings had completely different DNA and now we're bringing all that together. The complexity of finishing the building required us to have that principal on site who could help us help direct the finishing touches.”
Reetz heard about the position when he was an associate principal at Eden Prairie. “As I started to do more and more research, the district's mission and core values aligned with [mine], so I decided to apply for the position,” he said. Wald feels that Reetz has “got a terrific amount of energy. He's inspiring in how he presents his vision for the school.”
That vision, however, was initially met with an unforeseen frame of mind. “I wanted to harness the excitement of opening a new building. But much of the staff was also feeling a large sense of loss” Reetz shared. “I had to learn pretty early on to honor that sense of loss. All of the good things that existed from two separate sites, we're trying to bring over, but at the same time, we
are creating our new culture. We're not really adopting [North] or [South].”
For this reason, Reetz refers to this past year on special assignment as “a blessing.” Referencing past experience with principal transitions, Reetz has seen the challenges of meeting an entire new staff, implementing new systems, and making changes. So when I walk the building on the first day of school, I have an opportunity to continue to get to know students. I can dig into the actual work.”
Reetz believes the work for this upcoming year is getting each student to say “yes” to the following three questions:
Q. Do I belong here?
A. “The first 60 days of school will be a large focus on how we're going to operate as a 9-12 high school—how we treat each other, how we greet one another, the connections and the relationships created in different areas of the building,” Reetz reveals. “I felt like I was at my best when I felt a strong sense of belonging, when I felt a deeper connection to what I was doing or learning. We provide the viable curriculum but I also want [students] to lean into relationships and find what they’re passionate about, ‘charting their own course.’”
Q. Is this meaningful?
A. “The second 60-day segment of the school year, we’re really going to focus on the purpose, connecting learning targets to students,” Reetz elaborates, “It speaks to those projects that stoke curiosity. That provide a meaningful experience.”
Q. Can I do this?
A. Reetz concludes, “And then the last 60 days is our ‘land the plane’. We want to ensure that students understand that they can do high school, and they can do it well. They can figure out who they are and what's possible.”
FROM PAGE 1
for the city to approve the applications as outlined in the city code.”
The developer previously proposed rezoning and a different plan with the sketch plan review process in late 2022. At the time, the Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Planning Commission and the City Council all generally felt comfortable with an apartment use on the commercially zoned property, but had concerns about in regards to building placement, circulation and access points. They encouraged the creation of a plan that blends in with the surrounding development.
“This has certainly been one of the more challenging sites that I have ever had to work through… There are a lot of constraints that came with the property,” said developer Mark Lambert of Summit Management. “I think we have checked a lot of boxes and come up with a really good plan. I’m proud of what we came up with.”
Amenities would include a community room, exercise room, grilling spaces, a dog wash and a car wash. Lambert noted the apartment building will be self-managed with market-rate rents. Other perks include residents not having to pay for heat or internet.
Juba added, “The site is designed a lot better than it previously was, and most of the concerns that the Planning Commission, EDA and City Council had have
been addressed.”
The plans include two access points onto Rosemary Way, a one-story indoor parking garage as well as some detached parking garages. There will also be a 1.8-acre public park.
Due to all of the constraints on the property, Juba said a variance was warranted.
“The property constraints are unique, in that there is a limited amount of contiguous property to develop to meet the allowed density of 10 units per acre,” she explained. “… The applicant has a good start in meeting the intent of the design guidelines. If the variance is not granted, the building design would change significantly and would likely result in a compact pitched roof that would be architecturally unattractive.”
During the public hearing, Resident Ann Broste told the Planning Commission to be “wary” of the increased traffic that would come from the project. “Right now, Festival Foods is a bottleneck,” she said. She also questioned the placement of the building and mentioned that all of the future residents will have to look at the Festival Foods parking lot.
Juba explained that Rosemary Way is a collector street designed to accommodate a lot of traffic. Eventually, the road is planned to connect to 147th Street. She added that although there are some traffic issues at Everton Avenue and Frenchman Road, the intersection doesn’t
warrant a traffic signal just yet. “It is something that (the county) is watching,” Juba said.
Lambert added, “We spent a lot of time trying to find ideal location.” He added that the apartment being located closer to Festival Foods will allow for residents to more easily enjoy the amenities of the grocery store, restaurants and other businesses in the area.
Planning Commission
Member Cindy Petty noted she thought the city should consider making the intersection at the street out of Festival, south of the roundabout, a four-way stop instead of a two-way stop. “I have almost got creamed a number of times coming out of there,” she said.
Planning Commission Chair Bronwen Kleissler said she liked the improvements that have been made from the sketch plan. “I think it is better than it was before.”
Planning Commission
Member Scott Arcand thanked the developer for “his persistence” and said he thought the project would be a good fit for the city of Hugo. The Planning Commission unanimously voted to approve all of the requested items and to recommend project approval to the City Council. The City Council subsequently approved the items.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@ presspubs.com.
Hay Lake School was constructed in 1896. Largely brick (versus wood), the school stood as one of the finer one-room schoolhouses of its day. On the same property is the Erickson Log Home, which was built in 1868 by a family of Swedish immigrants who lived there until 1904. Hay Lake School served as a regular classroom until its final class of students in 1963. In 1974, the Washington County Historical Society purchased the old log house and moved it 1 1/2 miles to its present site. Both buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Those who attended a oneroom/two-room school anywhere in Washington County are invited to attend a Rural School Reunion hosted by the Washington County Historical Society later this month.
Washington County had 79 rural school districts and one joint district with Chisago County. These districts were slowly consolidated during the 1940s and 1950s until all of them were closed by the early 1960s. Today only a few of the Washington County rural schools still stand. These include the Hay Lake School in Scandia, Eder School in Oakdale, Valley School in Denmark Township and the Hopkins School in Hugo.
The reunion will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at the Hay Lake School Museum, 14020 195th St. N., Marine on St. Croix. Stop by and share your stories, photographs and memories of an era gone past. No reservations are required, and cake and lemonade will be served.
For questions, contact susan.stepka@wchsmn.org or visit the Hay Lake School and Erickson Log House Museum on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. For more information about the WCHS, visit www.wchsmn. org.
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
“School is different these days,” states Partner at Wold Architects and Engineers Sal Bagley. When she and her project partner Paul Aplikowski began the design phase of the “Building our Future” Facilities Planning Process, a group of staff and students asked for designs that centered around one concept: flexibility. “We were very conscious of student agency,” Bagley states of the school’s design, “It was function first… It’s had a huge impact on how users feel.”
At the same time, Bagley and Aplikowski wanted “a way for the building to be one-of-a-kind. We went with imagery unique to the community.” The concept, then, revolves around islands and coves that students sail to through pathways, charting their own course. Bagley emphasizes, “It’s open, welcome, and invigorating— not white-painted, concrete-block walls. When someone goes inside, it’s a space they want to spend time in.” The following are just a few facility features students will be able to use come the first day of school:
To call the Union a cafeteria is to limit it. White Bear’s central social gathering space serves lunch, yes, but with vast ceilings and stairs that can double as stadium seating, the Union is where every student will want to gather. It helps that the space is gorgeous to look at. Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald praises the “gigantic sails that double as acoustic control, steel beams that replicate sailboat rigging, and terrazzo floor that replicates water lapping up on the shore.”
Wald also highlights the studentrun coffee shop School Grounds. “Students came up with the idea, were challenged to design it,” he says. “Ms. Lamwers was their advisor… They sought out donations for equipment and they were going to open it in March of 2020…and then it was delayed. So the younger students were around to see it through, and that student idea is what brings that to our high school today.”
Each student will spend much of their school day in a “learning studio,” a breakout space with shifting boundaries based on each teacher’s needs. Each studio has flex furniture that provides different types of seating or standing options to accommodate a child’s learning style.
Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Dr. Alison Gillespie states, “A guiding principle through the facilities work has been making the big spaces feel smaller. One example of how we’ve done this has been through the use of Learning Studios in the new addition. When students enter a studio, that space becomes their ‘home’ with multiple adults supporting them.”
“Think of each one like a house or pod. Instead of 50 or 60 of the exact same room, there’s a parade of different activities. It’s more physically open, helps break down size of the school,” explains Bagley.
Principal Russ Reetz elaborates, “What does the studio experience look like and feel like? Teachers will not be assigned to a classroom. They’ll meet in the morning and decide within the studio, who’s using what space… ” Wald notes, “We have several breakout spaces that are enclosed. So you have the conference rooms look like a conference room. It's really a breakout space that's enclosed with glass doors so you can be supervised.”
Within each learning studio is “Flex Furniture,” movable seating, desks, and equipment to suit each student’s needs for the day. “We were charged with enhancing the flexibility of all environments. Furniture has the highest impact. It touches the most students in all the classrooms,” comments Bagley, "Talking about student agency, it provides a variety of options. “What best meets my needs for the day? A soft seating piece? Some
still want traditional. Some want to stand and work. It provides a landscape of options.”
On a more visceral level, Bagley reports, “It incorporates movement into one’s day as opposed to leaning back in a chair that wasn’t meant for that and tipping over.”
If this environment sounds noisy to some, Bagley states, “Learning doesn’t have to be shush-quiet. Other students can see learning on display. Sometimes, a quiet environment is the right thing. Again, it’s all about providing options.” Wald adds, “I mean, the flexibility is the key. There are times when, you know, teacher directed activity that looks old school is appropriate. And then there are times where the teacher is a facilitator of activity in the classroom. The goal was to create spaces that would allow that kind of facilitation and to flow outside of the four walls, but also allow for all types of instruction. So those learning studios really provide that. You have some very traditional spaces and some very open spaces… Each learning studio has one room dedicated to student support. If a kid needs to make up a test or needs a quieter area.”
“White Bear already had robust programming,” says Bagley. “Now they can do it in a space with purposeful design.” Each hands-on area—whether cooking, art, science, or mechanics—is an island that passersby can walk all the way around.
Career Pathways Coordinator Katy Olsen says, “The students are really in a special place to have such innovation at their fingertips, taking many forms throughout our Career Pathways program and career and technical education course offerings. WBLAS has always placed a strong emphasis on hands-on career immersion, and now students have state-ofthe-art facilities, equipment and technology to give them the most real-world experience possible without ever leaving the building. It’s also been exciting to have our Career Pathways industry partners support and provide input on these new spaces. Our industry partners are equally excited about these new facilities and the opportunities it’ll provide for collaboration and involvement with students!”
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The job requirements for the teacher/teacher assistant position would be someone who has strong communication skills,
the
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
A 50-yard field goal was the high point for White Bear Lake as the Bears lost to the Minnetonka Skippers 34-10 in their opener. It was the first football game at the new high school stadium.
Ernest Goodwin, senior kicker, blasted a field goal from 50 yards with four seconds left in the half, making the score 13-10. Goodwin had previously shanked a short field goal but quickly atoned. Back to punt a few plays later, he leapt to snag a high snap, sidestepped the
Skippers rush and dashed to the sideline for a nine-yard gain and a first down. That led to his long field goal.
Goodwin lined up from 54 yards late in the third period but that attempt was scuttled by a high snap. Both his kickoffs went through the end zone for touchbacks.
Minnetonka, ranked No. 6, was propelled by quarterback Caleb Francois as he sped for touchdowns of 10, 52 and four yards, and threw touchdown passes to Duke Richardson from five yards and Vincent May from 50 yards.
The Bears opened with an
80-yard march capped by Porter Cleary slashing the last seven yards for the score. Tomi Animasaun passed to Ben Lockwood twice in the drive and the Skippers had three offsides penalties.
Cleary carried 24 times for 67 yards. Animasaun completed 14 of 29 for 119 yards with one interception and ran seven times for 33 yards. Lockwood snagged five passes for 68 yards, Andrew Kolenich three for 23, Easton Miles four for 17, and Teegan Bartok two for 11. Defensive highlight was a Malik Duombia interception.
Dahl, a University of Virginia athlete, has made Team USA for the second time, this time for the Paralympics.
BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Skylar Dahl, a 2021 Centennial graduate, is competing this week in the Paris 2024 Paralympics as a rower. A member of the renowned University of Virginia rowing team, heading into her senior year, Dahl earned a place on Team USA’s PR3 mixed four with coxswain. She qualified at a selection camp in Sarasota, Florida, in January.
The Circle Pines native is joined by coxswain Emelie Eldracher, Ben Washburne, Alex Flynn and Gemma Wollenschlaeger on the USA crew. Dahl, Eldracher, Washburne and Flynn were all part of the PR3 mixed four that won silver in the world meet in Servia last year.
Born with two club feet, meaning that the bones are out of the standard position, Dahl’s early childhood was filled with surgeries, casts, braces, physical therapy and specialized footwear. She walks normally, but running is painful, as she found out when she tried to play soccer and basketball.
Known for her persistence and never-give-up attitude, she found her niche in rowing during high school, starting with a club team in 2018. The rowing competition began Saturday.
Centennial volleyball beat Cambridge-Isanti 3-0 on Aug. 11, lost to Waconia 3-0 on Aug. 24, and clipped Mounds View 3-1 last Tuesday, to start the season. In the 25-15, 25-16, 25-20 win over Cambridge-Isanti, Aubrie Wirkkala played a nice all-around game (see athlete of the week) while Elena Hoecke logged 12 kills and two aces, Emma Pederson nine kills and three aces, and Chase Manthey 22 assists and three kills. The Cougars beat Mounds View 25-16, 21-25, 25-16, 25-15. No details were available at press time.
Bruce Strand
White Bear Lake and Centennial jousted to a 1-1 tie in the opener at White Bear Lake Aug. 22. Sebastian Fernandez scored for the Cougars on a penalty kick in the 71st minute. The Cougars lost their conference opener to Park Center 2-1 on Wednesday.
The Cougars are still looking for their first goal after facing two of the state’s best teams to open the season. Ranked 10th in the first poll, the Cougars lost to No. 3 White Bear Lake 1-0 on Aug. 22 and to No. 2 Stillwater 3-0 this past Tuesday.
Bruce Strand
Centennial Volleyball
Aubrie Wirkkala, sophomore outside hitter, sparked the Cougar volleyball team’s opening win over Cambridge-Isanti last week as she rattled off nine kills, nine digs and five aces while compiling a solid 2.25 serve receive rating. The 5-foot8 athlete is coming off a promising freshman season when she contributed 89 kills, 120 digs and 11 aces.
