Quad Community Press

What to do if you find a baby animal?

If you find an injured wild animal (adult or infant), bring it to WRC during operating hours (10 a.m. – 6 p.m. every day of the year); no need to call first. During baby season, the WRC can help determine whether or not the baby animal needs to be brought to rehabilitation, so call before bringing in the young animal: 651-486-9453. Leave a message if staff cannot answer the phone; someone will call back within the hour.

Found a Baby Squirrel?

If you accidentally cut down a tree or branch containing a nest of squirrels, place the entire nest (or just the squirrels if nest was destroyed) at the base of the stump/ tree as soon as your trimming activity has ended. Give the mother squirrel time and space to move her babies (keep away from the area, keep children and dogs away, etc.). Squirrels are industrious and keep a few fully-constructed nests in the area. The mother will most likely move the family one at a time to another tree.

You might find baby squirrels laying on the ground with no obvious injuries. If you see no sign of bruising or other injuries, and they are warm and dry, they should be left where they are. Giving mom a chance to retrieve her babies is important to keeping wild families together.

Any squirrels on the ground should be gently picked up and set on an old t-shirt or fleece (tiny squirrel toes can get caught on towels) to keep them off the cold ground. Place two activated hand warmers underneath the fabric. This will provide necessary warmth to the young squirrels. Do not cover the squirrels.

If for any reason baby squirrels are still laying on the ground after four hours, or it is after 4:30 p.m., bring them to WRC.

If you cannot get to WRC before close at 6 p.m., bring the squirrels in at dusk and keep them contained and warm overnight. Set up a shoebox with air holes, line it with old t-shirt or fleece, put half the box on a heating pad set to low, and tape the lid shut. It is critical to not give baby squirrels any food or liquids to prevent aspiration pneumonia.

Doors are open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and phones are answered from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., 365 days a year.

Taylor completes Centerville council

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Centerville City Council is whole again, after her new fellow council members voted 2-1 to appoint Dr. Raye Taylor to the seat left vacant by Michelle Lakso.

She assumed office on March 9 and will serve through 2024, unless council holds a special election prior to the November 2024 election.

Mayor D. Love and the other council members said they were pleased with the four candidates who came forward, and thanked each of them.

“We couldn’t lose,” Love said. “Great people came forward. But it was time the council made the decision to fill the seat, because you never know what might happen.”

The appointment came almost two months after Lakso formally submitted her resignation on Jan. 11.

At first, council talked about trying to have Lakso’s replacement seated within a month. But the thoughtful approach turned out to be beneficial, because it allowed more candidates to apply for the position, Council Member Russ Koski said.

“It really mattered that we took our time to talk about this,” Love said. “I was ready to move forward a while ago, but I’ve had time to think.”

Love recalled being first appointed to council straight from his position as chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission. But Taylor was appointed directly from the community and was not serving on an advisory board. Taylor comes to council as a voice from the community, Love said.

Taylor is well qualified, though she hasn’t held any city board seats, Koski said. Not being on a board could be an asset, because it shows residents they can have the opportunity to serve on council without having to be on a board. “She has a fresh view and gives council

a fresh set of eyes,” he said.

Council members also said they appreciated the different perspective a woman would bring to city governance.

A Centerville resident for the past five years, Taylor is a veterinarian and business owner.

Centerville City Council Snippets

• Larry Jiles Jr., also known as Chef Hot Hands, brought vitality to Centerville's business community, along with delicious gourmet food. He will be missed by many, following his unfortunate death earlier this month. To honor Jiles, the City Council passed a resolution in memoriam for his contributions to the community. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, when businesses everywhere were shutting down, Jiles set

SEE CENTERVILLE, PAGE 6

UPPER MIDWEST SCUBA AND TRAVEL SHOW

When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, March 25

Where: Mermaid Event Center, 2200 Mounds View Blvd., Mounds View

Details: Event features speakers on Great Lakes shipwrecks, a 3-D shipwrecks virtual reality booth, exhibitors, and award lunch. Registration information online.

Contact: umsatshow.org

NOODLES FOR NORTHWOODS

When: 4-7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 25

Where: Forest Lake American Legion Post 225, 355 W. Broadway Ave.

Details: Fundraiser for Northwoods Humane Society includes pasta dinner, silent auction, wine pull and raffles. Dinner portion of event requires advance ticket purchase.

Contact: 651-982-0240 or northwoodshs.org/fundraising-events/noodles-for-northwoods-2

VIETNAM VETERAN'S DAY CEREMONY

When: 2 p.m. Sunday, March 26

Where: American Legion Post #225, 355 West Broadway, Forest Lake

Details: Public event to honor Vietnam Veterans.

Contact: post225.com

LAKESHORE QUILTER'S GUILD

When: 6:30-9 p.m.

Tuesday, March 28

Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview

Details: Members will present information on “ThreeYard Quilts” and “The Sisters Oregon Quilt Show.”

CONTRIBUTED

Enjoy a slideshow of the largest outdoor quilt show in the world, held annually on the second Saturday of July.

Contact: quiltshopcoop.com

Business owners: Don’t leave your ERTC calculations to anyone but the experts.

AN INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRIC VEHICLES

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 29

Where: Shoreview Library, 4560 Victoria St. N.

Details: Guest speaker is Brian Anderson, a local engineer who has transitioned to 100% electric transportation. EV's will be on display in the parking lot at 6 p.m. Contact: bit.ly/NEMCA03

“THE WIZARD OF OZ”

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 30 and Friday, March 31; 1 & 5 p.m. Saturday, April 1; Senior preview 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 29

Where: Centennial Middle School auditorium

Details: Performance by middle school students. See ticket information online. Contact: centennialtheatre.org/the-wizard-of-oz/

HOME LANDSCAPING AND GARDEN FAIR

When: 8:20 a.m.-3:15 p.m. Saturday,

April 1

Where: Bunker Hills Activities Center, Andover Details: Community event hosted by Anoka County Master Gardeners features educational and hands-on classes and workshops, speakers, vendor booths and resource fair. Optional lunch available. Registration required; walk-ins accepted at higher cost. Class sizes limited.

Contact: z.umn.edu/2023HLGF or anokamastergardeners.org

CAEF GALA

When: 6-11 p.m. Saturday, April 1

Where: Majestic Oaks Golf Club, 701 Bunker Lake Blvd., Ham Lake

Details: Support education programs, teacher grants, and scholarships in the Centennial School District through auctions, games, fund-a-need, dinner and dancing. See ticket information online.

Contact: 612-756-8099 or caefoundation. org/gala

Business owner s: Don’t leave your ERTC calculations to anyone but the exper ts.

The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is one of the best kept secrets around and was recently expanded to benefit more businesses. Even if you received a PPP loan, you can still qualify for this federal Covid-19 benefit for up to $26,000 per employee

We analyze every business from scratch. That’s why we’ve helped thousands of businesses like yours claim hundreds of millions of dollars in ERTC funds. EasyTaxCredits.com

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Jimmy Carter in hospice

Ihave fond memories of our 39th president of the United States that goes back to 1977 when he was elected. I was included among six publishers of community weeklies from around the United States to visit with President Carter in the Oval Office to share conditions of the state of the country from a small town perspective.

It was an awesome, almost speechless, experience. I had voted for this president for his fundamental character and Christian principles. He set out to make government competent and compassionate. As we all remember, it was a time of inflation and a difficult time to meet those high expectations.

About the Town

Gene Johnson

Another part of our favorite memories includes visiting Plains, GA, while our daughter, Stephanie, spent a year with Habitat for Humanity in nearby Americus, GA. We would visit with Stephanie and go to the president’s church in Plains and sit in on the service as well as his Sunday school class. We were even there on his 70th birthday and had a family picture taken with him.

Jimmy Carter was perhaps most significant following his presidency for his leadership in world peace and conflict mediation throughout the world.

He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.

Carter is the author of 32 books, and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center in Atlanta, GA.

It was February 18 this year that President Carter decided to spend his remaining time at his home with his family and receive hospice care at the age of 98.

High school hockey tournament

The Minnesota state boys high school hockey tournament this year was exciting as ever. Mahtomedi won over Warroad 6-5, but it took a double overtime after three periods. Charlie Drage scored with a minute and 20 seconds to go in the third period to tie the game, which brought the teams into overtime.

Jonny Grove made the winning goal in the second overtime. The Zephyrs also won the State Class A title in 2020.

Now there is energy and excitement in our basketball programs.

Signs of spring

Potholes are everywhere, the days are longer, and American robins have been spotted but they may not have migrated. The first commercial tow, Niel Deal, arrived in Winona on March 8. This is considered a normal time.

Thank you, Carter

To my surprise, my son’s column recently pointed out my 87th birthday. As a result of that and people’s internet reminders of birthdays, I had a wonderful period of greetings, emails, letters, gifts and calls. It is proof of friendships, Press readership and a community that cares. God is good.

Gasoline prices

Gas prices are creeping up again. That’s part of our inflation problem. I think it’s unfortunate that our government policies are pushing us prematurely to electric vehicles when we have so much oil and natural gas in our country.

It’s an expensive program to get charging stations set up along the highway systems, but even more costly for individuals when they live in apartments and condos. Our automobiles have become more efficient with their engines and reducing weight, thus adding miles per gallon.

I think we should continue to research new energy concepts and phase them in gradually and voluntarily, and not use legislated deadlines like California. The American people aren’t stupid. When they see that it’s practical, they will consider hybrid electric cars and full electric vehicles that can get to 400 plus miles before recharging.

Gene Johnson is Publisher Emeritus at Press Publications.

Mid-Session Update by Senator Gustafson

It’s been a busy couple of months here at the Capitol, and already so much legislation has passed to improve the lives of Minnesotans and strengthen our communities.

Heather Gustafson

I’ve already voted for bills to cut taxes, repair infrastructure, support public safety efforts in local communities, and much more. I’ve also chief authored over 50 bills, had almost three dozen bill hearings, and have heard countless bills in the committees I am a member of.

Due to years of partisan gridlock in the legislature, so many pressing proposals have been waiting in the pipeline. We still have a lot more work to do to make up for lost time and deliver on the promises Minnesotans have been waiting for. When I ran for office in 2022, I made commitments to my own community that I would fight for and prioritize efforts that are priorities to my constituents. Here are some things I’ve been working on:

As many of you may already know, I’ve been a teacher for over a decade and education is one of my top priorities. This week, the Senate will be debating and voting on

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my bill to offer Universal School Meals to all k-12 students (SF 123). When kids are hungry, learning becomes almost impossible. I’ve seen firsthand as a teacher and a parent how critical this policy is for the wellbeing and education of our kids. In addition to this bill, I’ve also authored legislation to increase school funding to address overcrowded classrooms, invest in mental health support, recruit and retain teachers and staff, and more (SF 448).

In addition to education, public safety has also been a top priority. I’ve authored bills to invest $300 million in public safety across MN, hire more corrections officers, and multiple bills to provide aid and justice to the survivors of domestic & sexual assault (SF 2416, SF 2137, SF 294, SF 1038, SF 1475, SF 2019, and SF 2712).

I’ve also authored bills to invest in agriculture, our water supply, and the climate. My bill, SF 450, would require manufacturers who intentionally add dangerous PFAS chemicals to their product to report it to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. This will empower consumers to make informed and safer consumer decisions. This bill is just a first step, combined with other PFAS bills at the Senate this session, towards protecting our communities from this dangerous chemical.

In Lino Lakes, dangerous levels of manganese, which can lead to significant cognitive impairment

in children and adults, was found in the wells. I was able to secure funding in the bonding bill to address this issue by building a water treatment plant (SF 2621). In an effort to support our farmers and agriculture industry, I’ve also authored a Continuous Living Cover Crops (SF 1353) bill that would create new economic opportunities for struggling farmers, fund growth of crops that keep our soil covered all year, and mitigate erosion and nitrate leaching into our water. Additionally, I authored a Soil Health Grant Program (SF 1245) which provides grant money to farmers to help them transition to better soil health practices which, in turn, leaves our water cleaner, keeps our soil healthy, and benefits us all.

These are just a few examples of the work being done at the Capitol for Minnesotans right now. I am excited and committed to fighting to ensure these proposals pass in the legislature, and get to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. I thank you all for your continued support and for choosing me to represent our community in the Senate.

Senator Heather Gustafson represents Centerville, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Gem Lake, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township, and Birchwood Village in the State Senate. She is Vice Chair of the Senate Education Finance Committee.

QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject

matter will not be published.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.

• All letters are subject to editing.

• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to:

Publications

Legislator Lingo

Church is not doom and gloom

Recently you had an article listing a lot of statistics of how churches have lost membership, especially since the 2-year shut down by COVID. You interviewed a pastor from Lino Lakes Community Church. The article neglected to tell the positive side of church. My husband and I have lived in 5 states, raising 4 children along the way. Not having family for a thousand miles, we needed moral and spiritual support, so we always looked for a "church family.” Wherever we lived, we knew the Methodist church would accept us with open arms.

Yes, COVID spoiled a lot of good things, but we will find our way back. Kids of today, spend too much time alone and on the computer, not to mention the rest of the family. People are hurt socially, mentally and spiritually. We and our church family are still here to help. It's a good way to bring happiness back. For kids church is fun by playing, singing and learning with friends. The adults need to be together too, to make sense of a difficult world.

Also the news talks of seniors having the risk of dementia, if they don't socialize. Bringing their grandkids to church and visiting with others after the service helps them smile, and have hope and friendship. There are many examples of how the church helps us and our community become strong, such as: volunteering for food shelf, choir, band, teaching, worshiping and entertaining at nursing homes and serving at many special events.

Don't let a gloom and doom article make you think there's no hope. In spite of the chaos around us, we live in a wonderful world. Count your blessings and celebrate at the church of your choice.

• Brian Olson will be appointed to a three-year term on the city’s utility commission.

• The city has signed off on a request from the new property owners of Glen Oak Center to terminate the existing highway easement. There is no longer a need for the easement, as South Pine Drive offers access to

the neighborhood behind the Glen Oak Center property. Signing this request terminates the county’s easement that is on a portion of the city’s land.

• The City Council conducted a closed session to discuss the appeal of a resolution ordering abatement on the property located at 10100 Lake

Drive. According to the council, the closed session was necessary in order to have a candid discussion with the city attorney, which required a confidential setting.

Corinne Stremmel

Barb Raby, Lino Lakes

LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• Joshua Buganksi will join the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department as a part-time firefighter. He has completed his firefighting and hazardous materials training.

• Ashley Rudvik will take on a paid on-call firefighter position with the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department. Rudvik will be assigned to Fire Station 2.

• Ryan McConnell will take on the role of part-time custodial worker within the Lino Lakes Public Services Department. He has over 10 years of custodial experience and has worked for the Centennial School District.

• Jolene Chaka will be the new city clerk for the Lino Lakes administrative department following the retirement of longtime city clerk Julie Bartell. Chaka has over 15 years of experience and currently works for Washington County. She will begin the position on April 3.

• Eight unclaimed bicycles will be donated to Bikes4Kids following police investigations of several lost property incidents. Bikes4Kids is a nonprofit in Anoka County that takes bicycles and refurbishes them, then donates them to local kids in need. Since no one has claimed these bikes as property, the city has decided it is best to donate them.

• There will be an update to City Code Chapter 1010 dealing with signs, following a review by the city attorney’s office. This will ensure that the city’s sign ordinances will be in line with federal court case Reed vs. Town of Gilbert, which discusses content neutrality when it comes to the regulation of signs. The ordinance currently states the maximum size of a sign can be 20 square feet, but the city will increase the maximum size to 32 square feet.

• The city will move forward in the process to receive a grant agreement between the city of Lino Lakes and the Metropolitan Council of Environmental Services to improve public municipal wastewater collection. The intent of these improvements will be to reduce the amount of inflow and infiltration in the sanitary disposal system. Improvements will include repairing manhole linings and the East Shadow Lake Drive sewer line. The city is eligible to receive up to $50,000 in funding. In past years, the city has received approximately $42,000 toward repairs.

• Aquinas Roman Catholic Home Education Services has been approved to conduct an excluded bingo event.

• The Rookery Activity Center will move forward in hiring a part-time staff member.

• Student Sam Murillo presented to the council, requesting that Lino Lakes put on a parade to celebrate the community members of Lino Lakes.

Corinne Stremmel

CENTERVILLE: City council snippets

FROM PAGE 1

the wheels in motion to open his gourmet take-out restaurant on Main Street and Centerville Road. With his passion for great food, outgoing personality and positive energy, Jiles was ready to make an impact the minute the business community reopened after COVID-19. Chef Hot Hands was a presence around the community, participating in the city's Main Street Market, Fete des Lacs, and many other local events.

• After many years of owning two small parcels at 1737 Main Street, the city now has a party interested in constructing a commercial building on the site to house their salon business. Following negotiations, F&M Holdings LLC, dba Guys and Dolls Salon, has purchased the land for $5,000. The purchase agreement will give the prospective buyers a window of time to complete their due diligence and work through the design and zoning process with the city. The agreement ensures that the city would retain the land if the project does not move forward.

• When a developer changes the floodplain by redirecting a creek or culvert, the city must submit a map with the changes to the Federal Emergency Mangement Agency (FEMA). Council approved the submission of a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) application to FEMA for 21st Avenue S. As part of the construction of 21st Avenue S., from Commerce Drive to the cul-de-sac on the south end of the Distribution Alternatives building at the Amazon site, changes were

made to the floodplain of Clearwater Creek/Judicial Ditch 3. Specifically, the floodway was moved to the location of the new culvert under 21st Avenue, rather than through the field culvert, which previously carried the flow from the creek. The LOMR must be accompanied by a No Rise Certificate (a statement from an engineer that the change will not raise the flood elevation). The completion of the process requires an application fee of $8,000, to be paid to FEMA for the review and approval of the submission. The city will share this cost equally with the city of Lino Lakes. Centerville's $4,000 share of this fee will be paid from the storm water utility fund.

• The city has changed its mind about not giving its veteran ice rink attendants a raise. At first, the city was going to keep the ice rink attendant pay at $12 per hour, despite increases to all other job categories, due to the nature of the ice rink work requirements. However, city staff came to realize the value of employees who return to this seasonal work for a second year. Therefore, staff has revised the nonunion and parttime worker pay schedule to add a pay category for ice rink workers returning with at least one year of experience. The new hourly rate will be $13 per hour, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2023.

• The Centerville Lions Cadillac Dinner is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. April 22 at St. Genevieve's Parish Center, 6995 Centerville Road. Council also approved a temporary on-sale liquor license

CONTRIBUTED

and a temporary gambling license for a raffle and bingo. The Lions have sponsored this event for many years. As a nonprofit organization, the Lions have had the permit fees waived by the city.

• The new convenience store at 1801 Main Street will also sell tobacco, after council issued a new tobacco license, effective March 18 to Dec. 31, 2023, for Center Market LLC, subject to successful background checks. The new permit voids CenterMart's existing tobacco license for 2023, per city code. The license becomes effective upon the transfer of ownership.

• The State of the City address will take place at the St. Genevieve Community Parish Center from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, March 30. Mayor D. Love will provide an update on all the great things happening in Centerville.

• The Parks Committee has scheduled its annual park cleanup for Saturday, April 29, with a rain date of May 6. The committee will meet at City Hall at 9 a.m. and requests volunteer assistance from the public. Eagle Park needs additional cleanup activities associated with the removal of several trees in 2022. A sign-up sheet will be available on the city's website. Volunteers are urgently needed!

The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 22, at City Hall, 1880 Main St.

Loretta Harding

The 118th Congress is underway. Two bipartisan local journalism bills will soon be introduced. The Journalism Competition and Preservation Act, or JCPA, is authored by U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (center) of Minnesota, and is supported by an even mix of Republicans and Democrats. Matt McMillan (left), America’s Newspapers board member and CEO of Press Publications, and Dean Ridings (right), CEO of America’s Newspapers, meet to discuss local journalism role in communities. McMillan is talking to eight Minnesota and Wisconsin lawmakers “on the Hill” about the bills. He is part of a delegation whose members represent more than a dozen independent, family-owned U.S. newspapers and are visiting members of Congress. Recent studies show communities without local newspapers pay higher taxes and have fewer people vote, fewer people run for office and more partisanship.

Lino Lakes skater Myers holds 3 U.S. records after world tour

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Greta Myers, speed skater from Lino Lakes, emerged as one of the top-ranked junior skaters in the world, and as America’s best with three national records, after the 2022-23 Senior and Junior World Cup Tours.

As the youngest of 14 skaters (seven men, seven women) on of the American senior team, Myers competed in Norway, The Netherlands, Canada, Poland and U.S. events in Milwaukee in January and the finale, the American Cup Finals in March in Salt Lake City.

“My long term goals are to qualify for the 2026 Olympic Team, and to win World Cup and Olympic medals,” said Myers, who got her start with Midway Speedskating Club of Roseville.

Myers, who will turn 19 in May, finished first in season points for Juniors with 159,815, followed by Jade Groenewoud of The Netherlands (164,820),

Aurora Lovas of Norway (167,150), Lotte Groenen of The Netherlands (168,354) and Kang Soo-Min of Korea (168,518). The next American is Thalia Staehle in 10th place.

Myers posted personal best times this season in all four of her distances — 38.75 in the 500 meters, 1:16.09 in the 1000, 1:58.11 in the 1500, 4:12.64 in the 3000, and 7:16.50 in the 5000 — and the first three of those are national junior records.

In the season-ending American Cup at Salt Lake City, March 10-12, Myers won the 1000, 1500 and 3000 races and placed second in the 500. She was the only skater with multiple golds.

After that meet, she got to come home for a while.

“I trained out of Milwaukee for most of this past season,” she said. “My home is in Lino Lakes, but I have been on the road competing and training since August and this is the first I have been home since then.”

Asked about goals, she said, “My goals for the next upcom-

ing season are to continue improving my skating technique and times, and to qualify for the Senior World Cup Championships.”

Myers set the 1000 and 1500 records Oct. 22-23 in the fall World Cup qualifier, placing fourth and third, respectively. She was also second in the 3000

and 5000. As the top junior female in all of those distances, she earned a spot on the 2023 Junior World Team, while also qualifying for Senior World Cup tour with Team USA.

One highlight on the Junior World Tour for Myers was becoming the first American woman in 20 years to earn a

podium finish in the women’s All-Around while placing second at the Junior World Cup on February 10-12 in Inzell, Germany, behind Angel Daleman of The Netherlands. She placed fifth in the 500, third in the 1500, third in the 1000 and sixth in the 3000.

Another highlight, on the Senior World Tour, was placing third in the B Division in the 1000 meters at World Cup six in Poland on Feb. 19.

Myers has attended Hand in Hand Montessori, Concordia Academy and Gentry Academy. She was a varsity hockey player in ninth grade with Roseville/Concordia before leaving the team in mid-season to pursue speed skating. She is currently finishing her senior year online with Gentry Academy.

“I am planning on attending college next year,” Myers said, “but am undecided whether I will join the national team in Utah and go to school out there, or continue my training and education in Milwaukee.”

Cougars bring home 5th place trophy from state

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

The Centennial Cougars had an encouraging first three minutes against Eden Prairie in the state tournament opener Wednesday. That didn’t last long and the Cougars lost to a very talented Eagles team 78-57 at Williams Arena.

However, the Cougars, in their third straight state appearance, regrouped and won two consolation games, over Eagan 55-45 Thursday and Lakeville North 71-54 Friday, at Concordia-St. Paul. They earned fifth place and the consolation championship trophy to finish the season 21-11.

Another highlight: junior guard Marisa Frost was among 10 players on the Class 4A All-Tournament team after scoring 54 points in three games.

Coach Jamie Sobolik called it “an exciting eight days in our program” starting with defeating Blaine in the section final (and avenging a late-season loss to them) which was “a huge weight dropped off our shoulders” and

led to fun, loose practices and evening activities leading up to state. “We enjoyed a couple team meals before having to head down to Williams Arena,” he said.

After losing to Eden Prairie, which finished third in the state tourney, the Cougars faced two familiar teams. They beat Eagan for the second time (the first was 45-44 in December) and avenged a loss to Lakeville North (61-59 in overtime in December.)

“A very positive way to end the season,” Sobolik said.

The consolation games are away from the limelight but the Cougars were determined to make the most of it.

“We thought of it as a new tournament. We kept our trust in each other and played our lockdown defense,” said Emma Walsh, senior guard. “It was very important to end the best way possible, which was with the hardware from the consolation championship.”

About Eden Prairie, Walsh reflected, “We went into it thinking anything is possible. Although it didn’t go our way,

and we didn’t execute exactly how we wanted to, we didn’t go down without a fight. Overall they just have more talent.”

Eden Prairie 78, Cougars 57

A half-minute into the game, Frost made a mid-court steal against one of the best point guards in the state, Molly Lenz, and dashed for a three-point play for a quick 3-0 lead. The Cougars added some nice slashing drives and opened an 11-6 margin.

Then the roof fell in as the deep, swift, talented, No. 5 ranked Eagles started to take the underdog Cougars apart on the way to a 41-22 halftime lead. The final count was 78-57.

“Eden Prairie was a lot quicker than they appeared on film. They took us out of a lot of things we want to do on offense,” Sobolik said. “We only attempted one 3-pointer in the whole first half.”

The Eagles (21-9) play in the Lake Conference which had three of the four Class 4A semi-finalists. They

SEE BASKETBALL, PAGE 9

Emma Walsh, Centennial basketball guard, closed her career on a high note, playing in the state tournament and notching 27 points in three games to help the Cougars go 2-1 and place fifth. The quick 5-foot-9 senior averaged 7.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.6 steals for the season and made 24 three-pointers. “Emma brings us additional speed in the back court. She has an ability to get to the rim, and extend the defense with her 3-point shooting,” said coach Jamie Sobolik, adding that she was also one of the team leaders in pre-season, organizing participation in an acceleration program.

USA SKATING | CONTRIBUTED

Greta Myers, 18, in action with Team USA on the 2022-23 world tour.

BRENNAN SCHACHTNER | CONTRIBUTED

Emma Walsh dashed in for a layup against Eden Prairie at Williams Arena.

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Miscellaneous

Mark your Calendar

ANNUAL SPRING

BOUTIQUE & BAKE SALE

Friday, March24: 9am - 7pm

Saturday, March 25: 9am - 4pm

White Bear Area Senior Center 2484 East County Rd F, WBL

All Items are handmade

362

Miscellaneous

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Press

City of Hugo Position Vacancy Notice

SEASONAL PUBLIC WORKS POSITION.

The City of Hugo is currently accepting applications for a seasonal public works employee. This position is responsible for assisting the public works department in a wide variety of tasks including: park, street and utilities maintenance. This position will exist from May through September and will not exceed 40 hours per week. The rate of pay is $16 per hour.

Applicants must have a valid Minnesota driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age.

Applications are available at City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Av. N., Hugo, MN 55038, 651-762-6301 or on the City’s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us. Applications must be completed and returned to City Hall by 4:00 p.m., March 24, 2023.

NOW HIRING DRIVERS

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MOVING SALE!

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Staff Writer

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WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion based on race, co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal cu stod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing cusody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly acept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9 777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

Guaranteed minimum salary up to $20 per hour depending on shift

651-653-9845

4687 Bald Eagle Ave., WBL 55110

FROM BOATWORKS APARTMENT BUILDING, WHITE BEAR LAKE

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI

SEASONAL FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT MAINTENANCE WORKER

THE BEST PLACE YOU’LL EVER WORK!

Now hiring:

• Recreation Staff

• Park Maintenance Staff

• Building Supervisor

Chair – Very good condition. $100 High-top Metal and Glass Table with 4 Upholstered Metal Chairs – Excellent condition. Bought at HOM Furniture, 2017. $350 MOVING SALE!

Side

The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $16.00/hr. to $18.00/ hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at HYPERLINK "http://www.ci.mahtomedi.mm.us" www. ci.mahtomedi.mn.us. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

38 t h Annual

Wedding Show

Learn more and apply at CityofRoseville.com/jobs

Tidbits

SEASONAL MAINTENANCE WORKERS POSITIONS

FOUR SEASONS AIR SPECIALISTS, INC. “Experts in Indoor Air Comfort Since 1974” www.4seasonsairwbl.com | (651) 426-5254 WEEKLY AVERAGES HIGH LOW SUN PCP 46° 26º 59% 0.28 “

I think this past weekend’s low morning temperatures, in the single digits, may have been the last of the season. We always have that last one cold spell in March and I think that was it. Many people will be happy to hear this. There’s still a lot of snow on the ground. In my yard alone it varies from 13-19”. The upper air flow is featuring more Pacific flow for this period so we should enjoy temperatures near normal. It will feel wonderful.

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance

SUNRISE/SUNSET MAR. 22-28 2023 7:12 7:29 7:10 7:30 7:08 7:32 7:06 7:33 7:05 7:34 7:03 7:35 7:01 7:37 Frank Watson CLASSIFIEDS 8 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS www.presspubs.com MARCH 21, 2023 PHONE: 651-407-1250 | EMAIL: classified@presspubs.com

Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 7 am to 3:30 pm (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).

Salary range from $14.00 /hour to $18.00/hour depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.

Applications are available Monday –Friday, 7 am – 4:30 pm, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship.org.

Application deadline: Open until positions filled.

Mosquito Control District presents annual report

Alex Carlson, Metropolitan Mosquito Control District public affairs manager, and Dave Dirkswager, MMCD regional operational manager, attended the Anoka County board meeting to present MMCD’s annual report. Carlson noted that beyond being a nuisance, mosquitoes are also disease spreaders, so that’s why MMCD works to reduce their numbers in the metro area. Mosquitoes can spread West Nile virus, Jamestown Canyon virus, La Crosse encephalitis, Eastern equine encephalitis, and dog heartworm. In addition to the mitigation efforts performed by MMCD staff, staff members offer education about how to decrease the number of mosquitoes at residences –– this information can be found at mmcd. org/residents-guide/. Carlson and Dirkswager also said MMCD is currently hiring for seasonal employees.

Pavilions at Bunker Hills Regional Park to be torn down

Commissioner Mike Gamache, chair of the Parks Committee, noted that at the last committee meeting, engineering firm TKDA presented information about its

BASKETBALL: 2 consolation wins

assessment of pavilions 1, 2 and 3 in Bunker Hills Regional Park. Due to structural deficiencies, which includes substantial rotting to areas integral for support, all three pavilions will be torn down at some point this year. Gamache said the county will seeking funding through state bonding and possibly the Metropolitan Council to rebuild pavilions 1 and 3 with materials that should last several decades. Pavilion 2 will likely remain a concrete pad after teardown of the structure, until funding can be identified to possibly rebuild that pavilion.

Board agrees to new settlement documents related to opioid crisis

The board has signed onto a new settlement agreement through the Minnesota Attorney General related to opioid crisis litigation. According to the original settlement between the state and several large manufacturers and distributors of opioid pharmaceuticals, Minnesota was set to receive about $300 million. The updated agreement could yield up to another $235 million over 15 years.

From press release

FROM PAGE 7

had remarkable depth. Ella Hardwick and Annika Anderson scored 12 points each, Rae Ehrman and Lenz 10 each, and Tori Schlagel nine. Ten players scored, and nobody played more than 23 minutes.

“Our defense was excellent. We rebounded really well. And we had our best shooting game of the year — fifty percent on three's,” coach Ellie Wiese summarized. “So we had a little too much for Centennial today.”

Frost had a big game with 21 points on 7-for-10 shooting, with four steals. The junior guard played in her fifth state tournament (three basketball, two soccer). Walsh had nine points, Macey Littlefield eight and Autumn McCall seven.

The Cougars shot extremely well — 20-for37 on field goals, 16-for-24 on free shots — but Eden Prairie had the ball most of the time and shot a blazing 30-for-55, including 9-for18 on three’s.

Cougars 55, Eagan 45

Macey Littlefield sank 17 points for the Cougars, including 11 of the last 12 points, going 7-for-7 at the line along with a pair of layups when Eagan tried to trap them. Jordan Metz added 13 points, shooting 5-for-9 overall, 2-for-2 on three’s. Frost had nine points, and McCall six points and 11 rebounds. Lydia Schmitter had 17 points for Eagan.

Cougars 71, Lakeville North 54

Frost led with 24 points as Centennial took a 35-32 halftime lead and pulled away in the

second half. McCall scored 18 points, Walsh 12, Littlefield nine, Kati Anderson five and Metz three. Hayley Bryant led the Panthers (23-9) with 12.

A basket for Megan

In the loss to Eden Prairie, the Cougars cleared the bench and got all 15 girls in the state tournament game, with 10 scoring, most notably senior Megan Stacy, who banked in an uncontested layup on an inbounds play.

BRUCE

| CONTRIBUTED Marisa Frost, who made the all-tournament team, drove for a threepoint play against Eden Prairie.

Sobolik explained after the game that Stacy is a five-year varsity player — but with a career interrupted by one injury after another. She was relegated to manager status this year but Sobolik activated her late in the season.

“We wanted to get Megan in so she could get a basket in the state tournament,” said Sobolik. He had arranged with Wiese before the game to help make that happen if the opportunity arose. She agreed. The Eagles stood back and let Stacy score, after which she left the court to a high-five from Sobolik and warm embraces from her teammates.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

NOTICE OF SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY OF CENTERVILLE PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION TO CONSIDER AMENDING LANGUAGE CONTAINED IN CITY CODE, CHAPTER 156: ZONING CODE, §156.015-156.052, DISTRICT AND USE REGULATIONS AND §156.200-156.263, PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT

ALONG WITH TABLE 156-A.1 BEING REVISED ACCORDINGLY

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City of Centerville Planning & Zoning Commission will be holding a Public Hearing to consider language amendments to City Code, Chapter 156: Zoning Code, §156.015-156.052, District and use Regulations and §156.200-156.263, Planned Unit Development along with Table 156-A.1 being revised accordingly. They will meet on April 4, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers of the Centerville City Hall, located at 1880 Main Street, Centerville, MN 55038. The purpose of the meeting is to obtain public input regarding these sections of the code, allowable uses within the Zoning Districts and requirements for issuance of a Planned Unit Development associated with development within the Zoning Districts.

You may call City Hall (651) 792-7933 or email mstatz@centervillemn. com or tbender@centervillemn.com if you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter. A copy of the proposed amendments will be available for inspection at City Hall and the meeting is open to the public. If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing, written comments are welcome and will be accepted until 12:00 p.m. the Friday prior to the meeting date at City Hall or via: info@centervillemn.com

In accordance with the Americans With Disability Act, a hearing-impaired individual(s), wishing to attend the Public Hearing may request a sign language translator by contacting City Hall at (651) 792-7933 within one week prior to the scheduled public hearing.

Teresa Bender, City Clerk

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on March 21, 2023.

CENTENNIAL IND. SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 12

CALL FOR BIDS

Independent School District #12, Centennial Public Schools will receive sealed bids for: Centennial Middle School – Tennis Court Relocation and Parking Lot Addition until 10:00am on Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Sealed bids will be received by the Executive Director of Business Services Centennial School District 12 – Patrick Chaffey :4707 North Road Circle Pines MN 55014 then publicly opened and read aloud. There is no agent for the receipt of bids other than the Executive Director of Business Services Centennial School District 12 – Patrick Chaffey.

Bids will be received by the Director of Business Services, Patrick Chaffey at the District Office, 4707 North Road; Circle Pines, MN 55014 then publicly opened and read aloud. There is no agent for the receipt of bids other than the Director of Business Services for Centennial Public Schools, Patrick Chaffey.

Bids shall be submitted on bid form provided by the Bid Documents. The completed bid form shall be submitted without alterations, additions, or erasures. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed marked separately “Centennial Middle School – Tennis Court Relocation and Parking Lot Addition”

with the name and address of the bidder, Work Scope Number and Title, and the date and hour of the opening. Bids shall be delivered to:

Mr. Patrick Chaffey, Director of Business Services Independent School District #12, District Office 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, MN 55014

Lump sum bids for the defined work scope are solicited from responsible contractors specializing in, or highly experienced in this work. Procurement of documents will be sent via Procore, for access, contact: Nexus Solutions, Brenda Schultz bschultz@nexussolutions.com (763) 370-6029

Bidding documents will be available on or about March 15, 2023. Each bid of $10,000 or greater shall be accompanied by a certified or cashier’s check, or a bid bond in the amount of at least five (5%) percent of the amount of the bid made payable to Centennial Public Schools as bid security that, if the bid is accepted, the contractor will execute the contract and file the required performance and payment bonds within the allotted time period after notice of award of contract.

The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or parts of bids and waive any formalities or irregularities in the bidding. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of forty-five (45) days after bid opening without consent of the Board of Education.

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on March 14 and 21, 2023.

STRAND

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• Police responded to a report of a theft in the 2000 block of Main Street in Centerville March 8. Upon investigation, they found an adult male had stolen about $36 worth of items from the store earlier that morning. Charges are pending, and an investigation continues.

• An officer responded to a report of a fire in the 1700 block of Peltier Lake Drive in Centerville March 8. Upon arrival, the officer found a chicken coop was on fire and assisted in the rescue of the chickens. The fire was then extinguished by the Centennial Fire Department.

• Officers were dispatched to a private residence in Centerville March 9 in response to a no-contact order violation. One adult was arrested.

• An officer was dispatched in response to a vehicle stuck on a snowbank in the area of South Highway Drive in Lexington March 11. The driver was arrested for DWI.

The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• Officers responded to a local business in the 1300 block of Pheasant Hills Drive March

7 on a report of a shoplifting suspect in custody. Officers cited the suspect accordingly and trespassed them from the business.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop for expired registration in the 1100 block of Birch Street March 8. The officer recognized the odor of marijuana and a small amount of marijuana and paraphernalia were discovered and taken into police possession for destruction.

• Officers responded to a local gas station in the 7000 block of 21st Avenue South March 8 on a report of a gas drive-off. Officers reviewed security camera footage and were unable to properly identify the driver or the vehicle. An electronic alert was sent out in an effort to identify the vehicle and driver. The investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded to a domestic situation at a private residence March 8. Upon investigation, it was determined an assault had taken place. An adult male was arrested and booked at jail on domestic-related charges.

• An officer responded to a delayed report of a no-contact order violation at a private residence March 10. An adult male was arrested and booked into Anoka County

Jail for the violation.

• An officer responded to an address in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway March 10 for a report of child pornography. Officers seized multiple evidentiary items and are investigating the incident.

• An officer stopped and cited a driver for driving without a valid license and no vehicle insurance on I-35E March 11 and told the driver it was illegal for them to drive. The vehicle was stopped a second time shortly thereafter with the same driver, who was arrested and booked at jail for driving without a valid driver’s license.

• Officers responded to a call in the area of Gray Heron Drive and Elm Street March 11 and learned three people were having a verbal domestic dispute. Officers separated all parties and learned that no assault had occurred. A male driver was arrested for DWI and booked at jail.

• An officer stopped a vehicle being driven by a driver without a license in the 6600 block of Pelican Place March 12. The driver was found to be intoxicated, was arrested, and later was booked at jail for second-degree DWI.

WEEKLY WAG

Meet Lola Marie, a happy, fun and energetic young lady, who is full of affection and sloppy kisses. Lola is a 2-yearold pit bull terrier mix. She likes everyone she meets, is social with other dogs, and loves to play with any dog who will play with her. In fact, she would do very well in a home with another social, active dog. Lola arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter. She weighs about 60 pounds, knows her basic commands and is house-trained. Having a fenced yard isn’t required, but would suit Lola very well. She would enjoy having a place where she could be let out to run and play. When she’s not playing, Lola enjoys curling up and cuddling on the couch with her favorite people. Lola is anxiously awaiting a semiactive family who will love her and welcome her into their family. She has a lot of love and joy to give in return. If you are interested in learning more about Lola Marie or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue. org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

Price & Length