Quad Community Press

Celebrating a happy 100th birthday

Maria Geneva Niemczyk claps along with some of the more than 50 family members who participated in a group happy 100th birthday singalong during a recent gathering at the Forest Lake American Legion. According to family members, she is still active and living independently. She had six children and her extended family includes 16 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and a 3 month old great, great grandchild named Maria. Find more photos online at presspubs.com.

Quad chamber scholarship to honor late chef

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

The Quad Area Chamber of Commerce hopes to fund a scholarship for years to come in memory of Larry Giles Jr., also known as Chef Hot Hands.

Jiles was one of two people killed in a shooting on Dale Street in St. Paul Feb. 25.

The well-loved businessman and community personality operated his restaurant and catering business, Chef Hot Hands, in downtown Centerville. He was born in St. Paul, raised in Hugo and graduated from White Bear Schools in 2006. He was a familiar face at community events such as Good Neighbor Days, and was often willing to go the extra mile to give back to the community.

“It felt important to try to make something positive to come out of this heartbreak,” explained Michelle Koch, chamber marketing and social media director. “Larry was a special person to a lot of people, and I think many people feel that same desire.”

The Chamber wants to honor Jiles’ spirit by helping aspiring youth from Centennial High School or White Bear Lake Area High School with a scholarship to help them pursue their dreams. The scholarship is meant for students of color or students who are interested in culinary arts.

The hope is to give out $1,000 this year, and for many years to come. “We are hoping to fund the scholarship for years to come from a big push this year while it is top of mind,” Koch said. “We’ll see how it goes.”

The chamber has established the Jiles Scholarship Fund at F&M Bank in Lino Lakes. To donate, drop off or send checks to F&M Bank, located at 7641 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, MN 55014.

Centennial advocates connect families and students to resources

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

There are three faces that have become very familiar to families and students within the hallways of Centennial Schools.

They are Student and Family Advocates Kathy Berrios Cordero, Matthew Thao and Ramla Iman. The positions, which are new to the district this year, are funded via the Achievement and Integration grant through the Minnesota Department of Education.

“The student and family

advocates are to help students and families with needs that center around the students’ educational experience,” said Director of Teaching and Learning Mark Grossklaus. “(They) are a valuable resource that helps families connect with our schools and provide additional support that some families might need to support their students.”

Berrios Cordero has worked for the district for 23 years.

Prior to the advocate role, she wore a variety of hats including paraprofessional, substitute teacher, Hispanic and

cultural liaison, and Spanish interpreter. She was interested in filling the advocate role because she enjoys helping people, especially the Hispanic community, to pay tribute to her Puerto Rican heritage. She helps students with the last names starting with A-Har as well as Spanish-speaking families.

“My motto is, if you need help, I’m there for you no matter who you are,” she said.

Thao is a newcomer to the district. For the past six

SEE ADVOCATES, PAGE 11

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

CONTRIBUTED

Centennial High School employs three student and family advocates. Pictured (from left) are Ramla Iman, Matthew Thao and Kathy Berrios Cordero.

LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS COMMUNITY BRIEF

Meet new friends

Are you ready to emerge from your winter cocoon? North Suburban Neighbors Club (NSNC) invites prospective members to a spring coffee at 10 a.m. in the Fireside Lounge of the Shoreview Community Center, located at 4580 Victoria St. N. NSNC is a nonprofit friendship organization for women in the north suburbs. The organization strives to provide opportunities for members to become acquainted with others in the area through friendship, goodwill and fun. Activities include coffee, eating out, programs, events, book club, movies, community service and more. To learn more about NSNC, call or text Ellen at 651-247-9601.

POLITICAL BRIEF

Emmer announces 2023 Young Women’s Leadership Program

Congressman Tom Emmer recently announced that his office would begin accepting registrants for the 2023 Young Women’s Leadership Program. Since 2016, the program has connected high-school-aged girls in the Sixth Congressional District with local women leaders for guidance and mentorship.

The program will span three sessions this summer. Topics will range from leading in a crisis to financial literacy and mental health management. Location and session times will be announced at a later date. Further details on the program can be found online at https://emmer.house.gov/young-womens-leadership-program. Registrants have until the deadline of Monday, May 15, to apply. Questions about the program can be directed to Theresa Braid at theresa.braid@mail.house. gov.

• The city plans to sell its 1994 Chevy S-10 pickup (Grass No.1) that was used for responding to grass/wildland types of fires. The vehicle is no longer needed, as the city now has use of a utility terrain vehicle (UTV). The vehicle will likely be sold for $12-$15K to another municipality.

• The council continues to hear concept plans from US Homes LLC (Lennar) regarding the Watermark development. Although the overall number of housing units hasn’t changed, Lennar is proposing to construct some different housing types and lot sizes to better fit market demand.

“I like the original plan. I’m not really interested in trying to move in another direction,” said Mayor Rob Rafferty. Council Members Tony Cavegn, Christopher Lyden and Michael Ruhland all agreed with Rafferty. The council ultimately directed Lennar to get rid of the townhome product altogether, and introduce some more 50-, 55- and 60-foot-wide lots.

• The city will pay KMS Air Duct Cleaning $15,212 to clean the ductwork at the Rookery Activity Center (RAC). The building was constructed in 2007. Mike Rowe, of RAC building maintenance, explained that typically, activity center-type facilities should have the ductwork cleaned every two to four years, but there is no evidence that the building’s ductwork system has ever been cleaned. In addition, the recent renovations created significant amounts of airborne debris.

The duct system is comprised of 10 independent zones, which will allow the contractor to work around the classes and activities of the RAC without closing down the entire facility. Funding is provided by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant dollars.

• The Lino Lakes Civic Complex will also undergo some work. The city will pay NAC, a mechanical and electrical commercial contractor, $21,950 to balance the air handlers. The Civic Complex was constructed in 1999. Since that time there have been room modifications, replacements of boilers and air handlers, as well as other modifications that have caused the air handlers to become out of balance, Public Works Superintendent Justin Williams said.

This causes certain rooms to have hot or cold temperatures in comparison to the air handler temperature set points. By having the air handlers balanced, Williams said it will allow for equal and consistent air flow into all the areas of the building, which will provide better control at the thermostats and a more comfortable working environment. It will also improve the operation of the system. Other potential benefits include energy savings, improvement in diagnosing any system issues and better air quality. It can also increase the lifespan of the system.

• Due to cost increases, the city has decided not to purchase a Ford F-350. The adopted 2022 budget included $65,000 to purchase a Ford F-350 with dump box for the parks department maintenance position. Unfortunately, Ford F-350 truck costs increased by 43% between 2021 and 2022. Due to the significant cost increase, city staff has decided to forego the purchase of the new vehicle for the foreseeable future.

However, the city does plan to replace its 2008 1-ton for a total of $94,958 (including the chassis, dump box, plow and other accessories.

• City staff will select three to four firms to interview and from which to solicit proposals for the design of the future public works building and to determine the best site. Over the past 10 years, the city has been evaluating the con struction of a new public works building to replace the existing facility at 1189 Main Street. Constructed in 1971, the building does not meet the current and future needs of the city, Community Devel opment Director Michael Grochala said.

CNH Architects completed a site analysis and space needs study in 2017. Oertel Architects completed a subsequent evaluation in 2018 to refine configuration options at the existing site and downsize the facili ty and costs.

The $11.2 million project is cur rently included in the city’s five-year financial plan for construction in 2026.

“There is a real value to making sure we know what we are doing and do it right to begin with,” Rafferty said.

• The city plans to roll out a housing maintenance assistance program. In 2004, the city received $225,000 from the Metropolitan Council Local Housing Incentives Account (LHIA) to assist with development of workforce housing in the Legacy at Woods Edge development. The funding was provided to the developer in the form of a no-interest loan for construction of the Lakewood Apartment Building. Upon the sale of the building in 2022, the loan was repaid in full.

Under the terms of the LHIA agreement, the city can return the money to Metropolitan Council, or use the grant funds on a revolving basis to implement projects that would help the city meet its affordable and life-cycle housing goals, Grochala explained.

To implement the provisions of the housing plan, the Economic Development Advisory Council (EDAC) is discussing establishing a housing maintenance program to assist low- to moderate-income households and encourage home improvement. Grochala explained that projects would be limited to single-family homes that are at least 30 years old. Approximately 1,700 (or 20%) homes fall into that category. EDAC will further discuss the program and eventually bring it before the City Council for • City staff, Baker Tilly and Kennedy & Graven are currently preparing the city’s five-year street reconstruction plan, which will eventually be approved by the council. The 2024 project, which is estimated to cost $4.5 million, would include 81st Street, Elbe Street, Danube Street and Red Maple Lane along with thin mat overlays of Diane Street and Evergreen Trail. The project slated for 2027, which is also estimated to cost $4.5 million, includes Lakeview Drive (from Elm Street to Glenview Lane) Fairmont Drive and Gladstone Drive.

The next City Council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 24, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ONGOING EVENTS

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY '500'

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday April 20; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbcon nolly1958@yahoo.com

DROP-IN 55+ FITNESS CLASSES

When: 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays

Where: Rice Lake Centre, east end of Hugo Public Works building, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Free fitness classes for Hugo-area adults 55+ by Live 2B Healthy. Class designed for seniors to help improve balance, strength, and flexibility in a group setting. Periodic fitness tests so partici pants can track their progress. Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

CURRENT EVENTS

'BUT IT FELL IN MY CART!' TIPS FOR SMARTER PLANT PLANNING

When: 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 11

Where: Online

Details: Join guest speaker Diana Grundeen to discuss the difference between plant shopping and plant deigning, and ways to get the most out landscapes. Free.

Contact: vlawmo.org/events/it-fell-mycart-tips-smarter-plant-planning/

NORTH SUBURBAN NEIGHBORS CLUB

SPRING COFFEE

When: 10 a.m. Thursday, April 13

Where: Shoreview Community Center, Fireside Lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: NSNC, a non-profit friendship organization for women in the northern suburbs, invites prospective members to learn about their activities.

Contact: 651-247-9601

THE JOLLY POPS CONCERT

When: 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday,

Where: St. Jude of the Lake Catholic School, Mahtomedi

Details: Free children's concert with nationally-known dad band, The Jolly Pops, hosted by Lake Area Discovery Center. Activities, snacks and preschool tours. Bring a stuffed animal. RSVP.

Contact: bit.ly/3E7Y7LC

ANOKA COUNTY SENIOR EXPO

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 15

Where: Lord of Life Church, 14501

Nowthen Blvd., Ramsey

Details: Information booths, live entertainment, free pancake breakfast, blood pressure checks, mini massages, eyewear repair and cleaning. Open to

SONGBOOK LIVE: THE WOMEN WHO WROTE THE SONGS

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 15 and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 16

Where: Lakeshore Players, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Top performers present tribute to iconic female songwriters in a musical celebration.

Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

RESILIENT YARDS: BLUE THUMB WORKSHOP

When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 18

Where: Online

Details: Participants will learn DIY skills for assessing yards and creating a project plan, learn about ways to redirect runoff, select and place native trees and shrubs, design a native garden, incorporate turf alternatives, and more. Registration online.

Contact: 651-204-6070 or vlawmo.org/ events/resilient-yards-blue-thumbworkshop3/

SIP & LEARN

When: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 19

Where: The Rookery Activity Center, 7690 Village Dr., Lino lakes

Details: Monthly event for seniors hosted by the Quad Chamber includes educational speakers, fellowship and networking opportunities. Contact: quadareachamber.org

LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: WARBLER IDENTIFICATION

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday,

Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701

Details: Free naturalist-led program for those 50+. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacoun typarks.com

FAT TIRE BIKING

When: 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, April 19

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve, 7373 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Introductory class for novice bike riders. Registration and cost infor mation online. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacoun typarks.com

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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

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As you read through this week’s paper you may have noticed the balloon floating through the pages. We are asking you to take notice and subscribe.

Publisher’s

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Carter Johnson

OPINION

Balloons invoke a feeling of celebration and can bring a smile. Balloons expand and grow, and can even travel long distances - just like in the book “The Red Balloon” where it travels the streets of Paris. In this week’s paper the balloon as a metaphor to remind you our local newspaper expands and grows your knowledge and allows you to travel through your community. If you find that the paper helps you in this way, we ask for your support with a subscription. Readers are the backbone of our paper, and those who subscribe help keep the paper viable.

To help simplify the process, we have been using a QR code that takes readers to the subscription site. Today we are seeing a solid percentage of our subscribers using the online subscription system. We are also providing an envelope in this week’s paper for those who prefer to mail in a payment. Please remember it can take up to three weeks to start receiving the hard copy of the paper.

Subscribers also get full access to the online content on our website and the e-edition. If you are logging in for the first time, make sure to create an account then log in and use your subscriber code to starting viewing enhanced online content. Online readers can view more photos and videos, certain feature stories, and the full e-edition of the paper. This is a great option for readers who want flexibility to catch up on local news and happenings anytime and anywhere.

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Digital and cloud storage

What ever happened to the family photo album?

We have albums and photo boxes filled with family photos that have been printed over the years. My cell phone and icloud host thousands more, and I have more digital files stored on DVD, jump drives and hard drives. Recently I received a notice from a digital photo service that stores photos for free that my files may be deleted if I didn’t make an annual purchase. I began to wonder how many vendors I have stored photos with and how do I retrieve them? With my cell phone being my primary camera now, can I be certain that everything I think is stored on the cloud actually is? Photos taken on social media platforms adds a whole other element, and are those stored somewhere? What if the platform changes or shuts down? Technology keeps changing, and it’s confusing how to best archive photos and other important documents digitally.

Perhaps some technologies are too good to be true, like totally free digital cloud storage. Our local IT company explained to me how many start-up cloud servers have gone by the wayside because they have been displaced by tech giants. I’m beginning to think the best way to ensure my photos aren’t lost is to go back to storing them on jump drives, and keeping an extra copy with a family member or in a safe or safety deposit box.

Double check where your photos and documents are being stored. It seems advisable to back up in multiple ways, as it is hard to keep up with the speed of technology and know which companies are guaranteed to be around.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

What if today was their last day?

you love. Rather, you’re probably thinking of the things on your to-do list at work, at school, or at home.

Movers & Shakers

Dave Bartholomay

Iwas reading a news story about a woman who died when the plane her family was riding in suddenly started pitching up and down in flight. She was so badly injured that she died at the hospital after landing it was very tragic. Her son was giving a eulogy at his mother’s funeral, and commented on the old saying that a person should ‘live each day as if it’s their last.’ He said that saying should be changed to “You should live each day as if it’s the last day of someone you love.”

Just imagine the difference!

Instead of being focused on yourself, you are focused on someone you love. How can you show your love; how can you make that person’s day better?

If they were in a hospital bed or on hospice, you could probably imagine how you would feel and what you would say. But today is just another day, and like the young man in the story, you’re not thinking that today could be the last day for someone

• Limited to 350 words.

• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must

But what if it really ended up being the last day for someone you love? What person comes to your mind? Now, take a minute to think of what you would say to them, how you would show your love for that special person. Perhaps you would surprise them with a call, mail them a note, or show up unexpectedly and give them a hug and a smile. I can just imagine you showering them with love in the way you show it. Wow, what a day that would be for them, AND for you! Research shows that we all need those hugs and signs of love. In a time of high stress and anxiety, healthy and caring relationships are the key to not only surviving, but thriving. The support of our friends and family is extremely important to our mental health. With it, we can work our way through tough times. Without it, the path is much more difficult. I am especially concerned about young people, who face social media bullying and other pressures as they try to figure out who they are; how they ‘fit’ into the world. They need our support!

As you walk through school or the community, or see friends and colleagues at work or online,

do you sometimes wonder what challenges they are facing in their lives? Would you treat people a little kinder if you knew their struggles?

My friend Roger Worner (retired Centennial School Superintendent) writes note cards to friends, offering words of encouragement and support. With pen in hand, he thinks about the person and then writes a card. He intentionally shares optimism and support for people in the hopes of making their day a little brighter as they know someone is thinking about them, caring for them. I believe sometimes we are the card writer, and sometimes we are the card receiver. Such is the circle of life.

So is today really just another day? Or is today the day to be more special, more intentional, to those you love? Have you thought about anyone you know that could use an unexpected reminder that someone cares for them? Can you send them a personal note or give them a call? It may make all of the difference in their world, and focusing on the needs of others, rather than just on yourself, is the right thing to do.

Dave Bartholomay is the mayor of Circle Pines.

QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

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.

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• 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:

SP TTED

1. While locked together in flight, two bald eagles spiraled to the ground, crashing onto an asphalt lot in Lino Lakes. One of the eagles was able to fly away, but the other sustained an apparent wing injury. Thanks to quick help from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and its partnership with the University of Minnesota’s Gabbert Raptor Center, the injured eagle was carefully captured by volunteers and taken in for treatment. — Lino Lakes Police Department, contributed .

2-3. The Centennial Area Education Foundation (CAEF) April 1 Gala raised over $79,000 for Centennial Schools. This year’s Fund the Need Campaign raised $42,000. The funds will be used for equipment for the high school’s manufacturing program, such as a press brake, tig welders, a computer numerical control (CNC) mill and a CNC lathe. — Jamie Watkins Photography, Contributed

4. The Easter Bunny was recently spotted at American Legion Post 566 in Lino Lakes. — Contributed

5. Kevin Mattson, of the Wargo Nature Center, visits the Centennial Library’s IQ Kitchen for a Kitchen Creation Class on maple syrup and maple pie. — Contributed

Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to quad@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.

DECA students compete at state

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Centennial DECA meets weekly during Lunch, Energize, Achieve, Participate (LEAP) to prepare for competitive events, fundraising and social connections. Students compete at the district level against students from Chisago Lakes, Forest Lake, Irondale, Mounds View, North Branch, Spring Lake Park and Totino-Grace. The top six students from each competitive event qualify for the state competition, held in March.

The district competition starts with a 100-question test on general business knowledge. Madeline Perron and Lily Huynh received medals for the written test exam by finishing in the top 20 at the district level. Students then compete in role play/decision-making scenarios within the following categories that are selected by students: buying and merchandising, marketing management, sports and entertainment, travel and tourism, hotel and lodging management, and principles of hospitality and tourism. Three students also competed in the start-up business plan competition, where a business plan was created and presented to a judge. All of Centen-

CITY BRIEFS

Circle Pines will contribute to new playground

The city of Circle Pines, as it has done in the past, will contribute $10,000 to Golden Lake Elementary School for new playground equipment. The city’s contribution will come out of the city’s revolving playground equipment fund. The new challenge course will feature things like: Xscape Play Unit, 2-Way X-Pod Step, Bubble Climbing Wall, Sky Wheels and an Arched Chain Net Link. The new playground is expected to cost approximately $31,000. The Park Board has recommended the City Council approve the contribution. The City Council next meets Tuesday, April 11.

Upcoming Games

CONTRIBUTED

Nine of 16 students that make up the Centennial High School Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) Club competed at the state level last month.

nial’s students were asked to compete in the employment interview competition.

Lily Huynh and Madeline Perron took first place in the marketing management team decision-making event. Prahbleen Khosa and Tatum Knox took second place in the buying and merchandising team decision-making event. Gurleen Khosa took fourth place in the hotel and lodging management series individual role-play event.

Garrett Burns and Mario Rivera Quinones took fourth place in the sports and entertainment team decision-making event.

Due to some scheduling conflicts due to spring break, not all DECA students were able to participate in the state competition. Nine of the 16 students making up the 2022-23 team competed. None of the students qualified for the DECA International Career Development Conference being held in April in Orlando, Florida.

Now that the competitive season is over, students will continue meeting to plan for next school year’s competitions and generate fundraising ideas.

Contributed

Circle Pines spring cleanup scheduled

RENDERING CONTRIBUTED

The City Council will likely give its blessing to contribute $10,000 to Golden Lake Elementary School for additional playground equipment. The project, which includes a fitness challenge course, will break ground this summer.

The annual spring cleanup is scheduled for 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 29, at the public works facility, located at 760 Civic Heights Drive. As the weather continues to warm up, it’s time to clean out houses, garages and yards. Bring old appliances, tires, bikes etc. to cleanup day. Hazardous waste, recyclables and yard waste will not be accepted. Some items may have a fee. The cleanup is for Circle Pines residents only.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL BASEBALL

Coach — Robert Lynch

Assistants — Matt Scardigli, Craig Lynch, Jon Lieser

Last year — 15-9 overall, 7-5 conference

Captains — none chosen

Returning starters — Seniors: Will Whelan (P/1B), Vinny Wry (CF)

In the mix — Seniors: Peyton Streit (SS), Sam Menne (C), Anders Wessman (OF); Juniors: Aiden Lieser (P), Josh Lee (P)

Fast facts — Will Whelan (P-1B) is the only one of six allconference and honorable mention players returning. He hit .400 with 3 homers and team-leading 25 RBI, and was 3-4 on the mound

New coach — Lynch, a Centennial 2007 graduate, is the new head coach. He was previously head coach at St. Thomas Academy (with a state tournament team) and Irondale, an assistant at Centennial and Mounds View, and Centennial VFW coach. He is a PE teacher at Mounds View.

Coach says — “Pitching (is team strength). Will and Aidan are Division I commits. Then we have a bunch of supplementary pitching from our junior class. With the pitching we have, I believe we are contenders.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TRACK // BOYS

Coach John Kretschmer, Steve Thomson Assistants Abe Hartsell, Caleb Glass, Nate Balzer, Lydia DeBuhr, Ryan Evans, Jacob Namyst, Eric Hotakainen, Jake Storberg, Lance Liu, Cedric Okoi

Last year — 12th of 14 teams in NWSC, 7th of 8 teams in section Captains Jacob Podratz, Charlie Bolkcom, Timmy Ball, Isaiah Tandoh, Eli Berg Coaches’ notes — Eleven lettermen return. Timmy Ball (junior) placed 6th in discus and 7th in shot put at section last year. Some returning sprinters have a chance to make all-conference. Several cross country runners have joined the track team to bolster distance events. Turnout of 93 boys is the most in several years. It’s a young squad in rebuilding mode.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GOLF // GIRLS

Coach — Mary Erickson

Last year — 8th of 14 in conference

Returning starters — Junior: Marina Allen; 8thgraders: Taylor Thor, Ella Friedman; Gabby Steele

Fast facts — Allen and Thor were all-conference last year; It’s Allen’s fourth varsity season

In the mix — Juniors: Lily Rupert ; Freshmen: Kate Lee, Charly Weymann, Brooke Hayes, Charly Hayes, Olivia Tollefsen

Coach says — “Thor, Allen and Friedman are as good as any 1-2-3 players in the conference. The other budding golfers showed great progress last season, have worked hard in the offseason and have great potential. The players respect each other, work hard, and challenge each other.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TENNIS

Coach — Dan Haertl

Assistants —Arnie Lamers, Mark Deretich

Last year — 16-3 overall, 9-1 conference

Captains —Joaquin Bliss, Sean Oslund, Zack Chaffey

Returning starters — Seniors: (1S), Chaffey (2S), Jesse Simso (4S), Joaquin Bliss (1D), Matthew Hanson (3D); Junior: JJ Bliss (1D)

In the mix — Seniors: Ian Gangl, Trevor Allen ; Junior: Brody Johnson … Sophomore: Drew Gangl; Freshman: Andrew Abraham

Fast facts — Oslund, Chaffey, and the Bliss brothers were allconference last year

Coach says — “Sean, Zack and Jesse are solid players with lots of experience. Joaquin and JJ are a great doubles team … We should be a very good tennis team. I am looking forward to the season and working with a great group of guys.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL SOFTBALL

Head coach — Rick Thomas

Assistants — Jeremy Chell, Jenelle Mackie

Last year — 20-6 overall, 5th place in state tournament, 12-1 conference

Captains — Brooke Helseth, Lily Cummans

Returning starters — Seniors: Brooke Helseth (3B), Lily Cummans (OF), Adrianna Thomas (2B), Chelsea Burn (OF), Jordan LeMire (C/1B); Junior: Lily Gilmore (CF) … Sophomores; Riley O'Connell (P/1B), Kendall Seidenkranz (OF)

Fast facts — Thomas and O’Connell (10-1 with 0.70 ERA) were all-conference last year. The turnout of 52 players in grades 9-12 and 11 in 8th grade is up from previous years

Coach says — “A hard working group. All players support those on the team. In order for us to reach our full potential, this is a must.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GOLF // BOYS

Coach — Chris Kopp

Assistant — Gary Tolkinen

Last year — 3rd of 14 teams in conference, 3rd in the section

Captains — Hayden Frank, Peyton Blair, Hunter

Ubel

Returning starters — Seniors: Frank, Blair, Ubel; Junior: Harper

Searles

Other lettermen — Juniors: Tanner Youngbauer, Kaden Flint; Freshman: Cooper Dalkawa

Fast facts — Two state qualifiers graduate; the other four of the top six return

Coach says — “We will have 18 to 20 players on JV and varsity. There is a continued interest in golf, which is exciting. Our returning players have an excellent chance of all-conference honors.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TRACK // GIRLS

Coaches — Same as boys team

Last year — 7th of 14 teams in NWSC, 5th of 8 teams in section

Captains — Anna Peterson, Julia Zalewski, Abby Wood, Adyson Janacek, Brenna Person, Alexis Larson, Alyssa Draheim

Coaches’ notes — Fifteen letter-winners return. Kylie Nelson was all-conference in the 800 and 4x800. Draheim (high jump), Abby Wood (3200) and Julia Zalewski (400) reached finals in the conference meet. Throws leaders are Person, Annie Trettel and Gabby Maynard, after three strong throwers graduated. Distance corps could be strong with girls from strong cross country team ….Young squad in rebuilding mode.

Pictured are Taylor Thor, Marina Allen and Ella Friedman.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL LACROSSE // GIRLS

Head coach — Hailey Berg

Assistants — Alana Bordeaux, Hannah Backman

Last year — 13-3 overall, 10-2 conference

Captains — Callie Cody, Anna Jarpy, Elizabeth Clough

Returning starters — Seniors: Ella O’Hearn (attack/midfield), Callie Cody (attack), Anna Jarpy (attack/defense), Elizabeth Clough (defense), Mallory Hafferman (midfield/defense); Juniors: Peyton Brezney (goalie), Noelle Hemr (midfield), Karly Lacis (midfield), Maria Waller (defense); Sophomores: Ella Weist (attack), Avery Sauber (defense); Freshman: Makenzi Munger (attack)

Fast facts — O’Hearn tallied 61 goals last year, tied for thirdmost in the state, and has 144 goals in her career. Cody had 46 goals last year, second on the team

New coach — Hailey Berg, a 2018 graduate of CHS who joined the staff the next year, takes over as head coach. She succeeds Gary Nelson, who started the program and was the only coach the Cougars ever had

Good Luck, Cougar’s!

(651)

HOURS:

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL LACROSSE // BOYS

Coach — Seth King

Assistants— Calvin Waddle (defensive coordinator), Jack Steele, Nick Truen, Joe Tuzinski, Sam Orth, Zach Badeau

Last year — 15-4 overall, 4th place in state tournament, 10-1 conference champs, section 7 champs

Captains— Reese Littlefield, Cooper Larson, Brol Scherman Projected Impact Players— Seniors: Kai Hermodson (midfield), Reese Littlefield (defense), Cooper Larson (midfield); Juniors: Brol Scherman (attack), Logan Adams (attack)

CONTRIBUTED

Senior Anna Jarpy is a returning starter for Centennial lacrosse.

New coach — Seth King, after two years as assistant coach, takes over as head coach with Jon Beach stepping down after a long tenure. King was an all-conference defenseman for White Bear Lake. He was head coach one season at Roseville. Fast facts — Scherman was the points leader last year with 36 goals and 28 assists. Logan Adams had 19 goals. Littlefield was third in ground balls with 46. Two non-conference games this year are Mahtomedi (H) and Benilde-St. Margarets (A).

5 Cougar spring teams have new coaches

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Five Centennial spring sports teams have new head coaches, including four former Cougar athletes, as the 2023 seasons get under way this week.

Heading the track program for both boys and girls are John Kretschmer and Steve Thomsen. They were named late in the school year after Courtney (Ramsay) Johnson, former Cougar and Concordia-St. Paul runner who was slated to be coach, withdrew due to pregnancy. “Both Steve and I stepped in,” Kretschmer said, “and stated that with our combined efforts we would be able to take over the program for this spring.”

Kretchmer, an Obstacle Course

Racing athlete for about a decade, has a

Softball: Rebels trip Cougars

7-5 in opener

Centennial lost its season opener to conference rival Champlin Park 7-5 on Thursday at home in a game that was close despite the Cougars making six errors and just three hits. Reese Reimler pitched for the Rebels,

long association with Cougar runners. He was a track volunteer assistant for the past nine years and a cross country assistant from 2005-21.

Johnson, a 2015 Centennial graduate, was a football assistant from 2016-21 and has been the throws coach in track the past five seasons. Throws were a strong part of both the boys and girls team last year. One of his state qualifiers, Lance Liu, joined the staff this year as an assistant.

Two longtime lacrosse coaches, Jon Beach with the boys and Gary Larson with the girls, stepped down after the 2022 season.

The new boys lacrosse coach is Seth King, who was a Cougar assistant coach the last two years. King was a standout midfielder at White Bear Lake and got started coaching in the Bears

allowing three hits and seven walks, striking out eight. Centennial's Riley O’Connell gave up four walks and seven hits, striking out four, with four runs unearned. Anna Parent and Taylor Zahalka each had two hits for the Rebels. Getting RBI’s were Emma Husom and Zahalka for the Rebels and O’Connell for the Cougars.

youth program. He spent three years coaching at Roseville Area, including one as head coach.

The new girls lacrosse coach is Hailey Berg, a former Cougar star who joined the staff in 2019, the year after she graduated. Berg, who has been assistant coach for three seasons, led the Cougars in scoring as a junior with 36 goals and as senior (on a 10-2 team) with 34 goals.

The new baseball coach is Robert Lynch, a Centennial 2007 graduate. Lynch was previously head coach at St. Thomas Academy (where he had one state tournament team) and Irondale, an assistant at Centennial and Mounds View, and Centennial VFW coach. He is a PE teacher at Mounds View.

Madi Newman, Minnesota State-Mankato softball junior outfielder from Centennial, is batting .304 with 18 runs and 12 runs-batted-in after 30 games. She has seven doubles, four triples, two homers, and 11 stolen bases for the Mavericks (18-12). Newman hit .328 with 32 RBIs as a freshman, and .345 with eight homers. 19 steals and 47 RBIs in 62 games as a sophomore.

CONTRIBUTED John Kretschmer is shown here in a 2021 feature in Quad News.

DNR hosts I Can! Programs

I Can! is an award-winning series of outdoor programs hosted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that helps beginners of all ages and backgrounds learn new outdoor skills in a beautiful state park or recreation area setting. Programs begin the first weekend in June and continue through the end of August. They include:

• I Can Camp! – These programs provide hands-on instruction on setting up camp, starting a campfire, camp cooking and fun outdoor activities. All gear is provided, including the tent, air mattresses, cooking gear and other basic camping equipment. One-night, two-night and backpacking sessions are offered.

• I Can Paddle! – These programs

teach the basics of canoeing or kayaking, including launching, paddling efficiently and planning a safe outing. These programs are designed for firsttime paddlers. Equipment is provided. Two-hour canoe or kayak programs, river day trips, sea kayaking and overnight canoe camping programs are available.

• I Can Mountain Bike! – This program teaches mountain bike riding techniques at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area, Minnesota’s worldclass mountain bike park.

• I Can Fish! – These hands-on programs teach all of the basics, from fish identification to casting.

For more information about any of the programs, visit mndnr.gov/ican or contact the DNR Information Center at info.dnr@state.mn.us or 888-646-6367.

To register for I Can! programs, visit mndnr.gov/reservations or register by phone at 866-857-2757.

New payment options available at state parks, recreation areas, campgrounds

Minnesota DNR is modernizing payment options in state parks, recreation areas and forest campgrounds by discontinuing the use of on-site self-payment collection boxes and expanding electronic payment options. This includes deploying an app for mobile devices called Yodel.

Yodel is currently available for some transactions in state parks, recreation

areas and forest campgrounds. For information about Yodel, and a guide to the full suite of payment options available, visit mndnr.gov/state_parks/ payment-options.html. Products available to purchase via Yodel will expand throughout the summer camping season. Visitors should follow instructions on signs in campgrounds to pay camping fees via Yodel, or by mailing in the fees if payment via Yodel is not possible. As always, vehicle permits are not required for visitors to state forest campgrounds. For more information, contact the DNR Information Center by email ing info.dnr@state.mn.us or by calling 888-646-6367 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday or 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday.

Ages

Grades K - 12

5 to 11 Years

2 to 12 years

3 to 18 years

2 to 18 years

Grades 1 - 12

August

Activities

April is...AUTISM ACCEPTANCE MONTH

The shift from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month reflects input from autistic and other community leaders, including members of the Association of University Centers on Disability who are advancing support, research, evidencebased interventions, inclusiveness and advocacy for the human and civil rights of all people with autism spectrum disorder / developmental disabilities (ASD/DD).

Autism diagnoses are growing, both for children and adults. In December 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that one in 44 children are diagnosed with autism. Over 7 million people in the U.S. are on the autism spectrum. Autism affects people from all racial, ethnic and socio-economic standings. The numbers stress the urgent need for equitable access to diagnostic evaluations and early interventions that have a significant impact on lifelong outcomes.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Some people with ASD have a genetic condition. Other causes are not yet known. Scientists believe there are multiple causes of ASD that act together to change the most common ways people develop.

People with ASD may behave, communicate, interact and learn in ways that are different from most people. Their appearance may not set them apart from others, and their abilities can vary significantly. Some people with ASD may have advanced conversation skills whereas others may be nonverbal. Some with ASD need a lot of help in their daily lives; others can work and live with little to no support.

ASD begins before the age of 3 and can last throughout a person’s life. Symptoms may improve over time. Some children with ASD gain new skills and meet developmental milestones

until around 18 to 24 months of age then stop gaining new skills or lose the skills they once had.

As children with ASD become adolescents and young adults, they may have difficulties developing and maintaining friendships, communicating with others, or understanding what behaviors are expected in school or on the job. They may come to the attention of healthcare providers because of anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, which occur more often in people with ASD than in people without ASD.

Approximately 1 in 5 young adults with autism will interact with a police officer before the age of 21. Individuals with disabilities, including those with autism, are five times more likely to be incarcerated than people without disabilities. Police interactions lead to more injuries and fatalities within this population, largely due to lack of training and the improper use of excessive force.

Up to 85 percent of autistic adults with a college education are unemployed, and over 70 percent of adults with autism are underemployed or unemployed. Given the current labor shortage, employers could benefit from expanding their pool of applicants through inclusive hiring practices.

The Autism Society offers a series of fact sheets and brochures to educate first responders and partners with businesses to offer learning opportunities, resources and connections to the wide network of autistic individuals in the workforce to support inclusive workplace missions.

More information can be found at https://autismsociety.org/ and https://www.cdc.gov/

COPS&COURTS

POLICE REPORTS

The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• A community service officer (CSO) received a complaint from the 7300 block of Stage Coach Trail about dogs from the neighborhood defecating in a yard where the dog owners did not clean it up March 28. The CSO will follow up.

• An officer responded to a juvenile facility in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue on a report of an assault March 28. The officer documented the incident and a juvenile female was charged with a crime related to the incident.

• An officer was dispatched to the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue March 28 on a phone call report regarding identity theft. The investigation is ongoing.

• An officer took a delayed report of suspicious activity in the 7600 block of Behm Lane March 28. The incident was documented at the caller's request. Extra patrol was offered but declined.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for multiple traffic violations in the 2200 block of Main Street March 28. The male driver showed signs of impairment, was arrested, and was later booked into the Anoka County Jail for second-de -

• An officer received a call of a delayed assault report in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway March 28. An adult male was subsequently arrested and booked into jail for kidnapping and do -

• An officer responded to a walk-in report at base regarding the identity theft of a resident who lives in the 6600 block of East Shadow Lake Drive March 29. The incident

• An officer was dispatched on a driving complaint in the area of Sunset Avenue NE and Main Street March 29. After an investigation, two adults were charged with disorderly conduct.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of Ash Street March 29. During the stop,

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Blaine robbery leads to hostage situation

A robbery occurred at the Walmart located at 4369 Ball Road NE in the city of Blaine at approximately 6 p.m. April 4. A male suspect was shoplifting and, when stopped by loss prevention personnel, pulled a gun and threatened the employee prior to leaving the scene. The suspect was subsequently

the officer learned a crime had been committed by the driver in another city. The officer notified the appropriate law enforcement agency and provided assistance.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for suspicious activity and illegal driving conduct in the area of Phelps Road and Otter Lake Road March 30. An adult male was arrested for fourth-degree DWI. A search warrant was obtained and a urine sample was collected. The adult male will be charged accordingly when the test results come back.

• Officers responded to a check welfare request in the 6200 block of Ware Road March 30. Officers arrived and learned an adult male was extremely intoxicated and couldn't care for himself. The male was transported to a hospital.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for illegal driving conduct in the 1700 block of Main Street March 30. An adult female was subsequently arrested and charged with fourth-degree DWI and alcohol content of 0.08 or more.

• Officers responded to a report of a fire in the 500 block of Marshan Lane April 1. Officers located a power transformer, utility pole and trees on fire. The fire extinguished itself and the power company was notified. Officers attempted to make contact with a homeowner where the power line was down, but received no answer. The power company handled the situation.

• An officer responded to a report of a tree on a power line in the 6100 block of Centerville Road April 1. The power company responded and took care of the problem.

• An officer responded to a report of a fallen tree that blocked a roadway in the area of Woodchuck Circle and Woodchuck Court April 1. The officer was unable to remove the tree. Public works responded and cleared the tree.

• An officer responded to a hit-and-run motor vehicle property damage crash in the 300 block of Arrowhead Drive April 1. The investigation is ongoing.

• An officer responded to a call to assist a motorist who had hit a large pothole with their vehicle, which caused damage to a tire in the 8100 block of Lake Drive April 3.

• An officer responded to a report of an injured

identified by the Blaine Police Department. Personnel from the Blaine Police Department, Anoka Hennepin Narcotic and Violent Crime Task Force, Minneapolis Police Department, FBI and State Patrol attempted to take the suspect into custody in the parking lot of a business in the 600 block of East River Road in the city of Anoka. Upon doing so, the suspect rammed multiple law enforcement vehicles but was trapped

at the scene by police.

eagle near the 2300 block of Main Street April 3. The officer contacted a rescue center and a volunteer picked up the eagle for treatment.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• Officers responded to the 1900 block of Cardinal Drive in Centerville April 1 for a hit-and-run property damage accident.

• Officers were dispatched to the 8700 block of Hamline Avenue in Lexington April 1 for a fire.

• Mail theft was reported near the intersection of School Road and W. Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines April 1.

• An officer observed a vehicle commit multiple traffic violations near South Highway Drive and Griggs Avenue in Lexington April 1. The vehicle was stopped, and the driver was ultimately arrested for third-degree DWI and possession of marijuana.

• Officers were dispatched to a property damage accident at the intersection of Lake Avenue and Lexington Avenue in Lexington April 2.

• Police responded to a hit-and-run property damage crash in the 7000 block of Centerville Road in Centerville April 2.

• Theft was reported in the 20 block of West Road in Circle Pines April 2.

• Property damage was reported in the area of Lake Drive and Griggs Avenue in Lexington April 3. There is no suspect information at this time.

• Officers received a complaint of dogs being off leash at Baldwin Park in Circle Pines March 29. Community service officers will follow up on the matter.

• Police responded to a phone call report of possible identity theft in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington March 30. The female caller advised that an unknown suspect may have used her identity in past crimes. Police advised the victim of some options.

• Harassment was reported in the 2000 block of Willow Circle in Centerville March 30.

• A resident in the 200 block of Twilite Terrace in Circle Pines called to report fraud March 31. The caller advised an unknown suspect opened up a cell phone account in their name. The caller was advised of options.

Officers quickly learned that the suspect’s girlfriend was also in the vehicle and the suspect was holding a handgun and refusing to cooperate.

He told officers that he was holding a hostage. Anoka County SWAT teams and a negotiator were requested to the scene. After several hours, the suspect agreed to cooperate and was taken into custody without incident. There were

no injuries to the female passenger or any officers.

The suspect was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries and then booked into the Anoka County Jail on multiple offenses and active arrest warrants from multiple jurisdictions. The case has been forwarded to the Anoka County Attorney’s Office for recommendation of charges.

ADVOCATES: Help families, students

months Thao has helped students with the last names starting with Par-Z as well as Hmong families. Before coming to Centennial, he worked at a Hmong charter school in St. Paul. He has a degree in social work. He was interested in the position because he enjoys helping people.

“As a social worker you have this natural calling of wanting to help individuals,” he explained. “Being a first-generation student and understanding how difficult this process can be for folks … I wanted to help people in a similar situation.”

Iman has worked in the district for two years. She helps students with the last names starting with Has-Pa as well as Somali families. Before landing her current role, she volunteered helping families who live in the Landings of Lexington

apartment complex. Iman was born in Somalia and grew up in Texas. She has a paralegal bachelor’s degree but decided she wanted to help families in a different capacity.

“This is exactly where I need to be,” she said, “helping the community fill in the gaps so there is no gaps and make sure our district is well covered for everybody.”

The three advocates work to connect families and their students with resources both within the schools and the community. They help families navigate through the enrollment process, fill out forms, sign up for after-school activities and clubs, arrange transportation, apply for scholarships and get basic needs accounted for such as shelter, food, clothing, etc.

As the district goes paperless, a big part of the job is helping fam-

It’s one last hurrah for LifePoint Church in Maplewood, which will celebrate its 150th anniversary this April. After that, the church will close its doors as it prepares to become the 12th campus of Eagle Brook Church.

Back in 1873, the church began as First Swedish Baptist, and changed names several times over the course of its history. Over the years, the church has had a strong connection to Bethel University and its seminary school. In its heyday the church served a congregation of more than 1,000 people.

In recent years, the church has opened its doors as a worship space to several different intercultural congregations as part of its mission of community. Under Pastor Dan Munson, who was at first hired on as an interim pastor, the church made connections with the Karen community—a minority ethnic group from Myanmar. Minnesota is one of the biggest diaspora communities of Karen living in the U.S. after many refugees fled from the political persecution in their homelands over the last few decades.

“A lot of these kids remember seeing people killed, seeing people beat up,” Munson said. In 2008 the church began making an intentional effort to reach out to refugee families, and began teaching children from Karen families in Sunday school and through the children’s ministry.

Munson was one of the founders of a nonprofit, Anchored Ministries, designed to help support refugees who came to the community with very few resources. Munson was able to secure bus transportation for youth, as well as other youth programming to help fill the gaps and help kids from refugee families be successful in school.

LifePoint soon became the scene of Karen-language church services, which eventually drew a congregation of more than 500. In addition to Karen, LifePoint has been host to services for Nepalese, Thai, Hmong and Spanish-speaking communities.

However, LifePoint, like many churches, was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our church is experiencing what a lot of churches are experiencing, in that we’ve seen the numbers of the church and attendance dwindle for quite some time,” said LifePoint Board Chair Ross Rud. “Eagle Brook is in the same denomination as us, so God is really at work there. We reached out to them and said, ‘Here’s a

ilies navigate the new technology.

“Our job doesn’t end in school,” Iman explained. The job keeps them busy before the school day begins and after school lets out. All three of the advocates live in the community and often run into families and students outside of school walls.

Berrios Cordero recalled a time when she was shopping at a grocery store and she ran into a student who needed help with their math homework. So, she hopped in her van in the parking lot and helped the student.

“We want to help these kids to have a better quality of life,” Thao said. “We want to make sure these families feel confident, feel like they are a part of the community and a part of the district.”

Lexington swears in, honors firefighters

concern we have with our church, do you think you might be interested in bringing Eagle Brook here?’ After conversation, the answer was yes.”

The church community has expressed mixed feelings about the change. While many are hopeful for the future, it is not necessarily an easy or comfortable transition for everyone.

“Eagle Brook does wonderful work; they preach the gospel and reach great numbers of people, but there’s still sadness as we lose our relationships within the church and all the ministry we were doing,” said a longtime member of the congregation who wished to remain anonymous. “I’m 85, I don’t know what I’m going to do or where I’m going to go. Some are enthusiastic, others are heartbroken,” the anonymous source added.

Munson said that all of the partner communities have found new homes for the time being, but many are hopeful that Eagle Brook may be able to continue to offer support in some of the same ways and keep the same relationships thriving.

“When they get the place remodeled, there’s a good chance they may have a strong outreach to these same communities that we’re reaching out to,” Munson said. Several other organizations, including the Karen church community, offered to buy the property. “But we wanted it to be a place that’s full and that the resources of the building are used to the max for the gospel,” Munson said. “This particular group will do this. We got adopted, is what we’re saying, by a church that will continue the vision.”

After LifePoint passes into the hands of Eagle Brook leaders, the church will close for renovation and reopen to the community sometime later this year, hopefully by Christmastime.

“There’s a large degree of excitement about what the future holds,” Rud said.

The 150th anniversary celebration will be held at the 10 a.m. Sunday, April 16, service at LifePoint Church, 2220 Edgerton St. Several pastors from the church’s past have been invited to speak and share their memories, and Munson promised lots of music. Anyone who has ever sung in the choir will be invited to come up and sing. They can find the sheet music by reaching out to LifePoint beforehand, or join in on the day of the celebration. Learn more at https://www.lifepointmn.org.

Jackie Bussjaeger

Chief Erik Edwards (left) and firefighter David Hults III, firefighter Heidi Haakenson and Lt. Jeffery Geiger are presented with service awards. Service Awards are given to individuals who

and meet

PHOTOS

(From left) Cally Jacobson, Eric Quigley, John Jackson and Zach O’Connell are officially sworn in. Not pictured is firefighter Diego Rivera.

Church celebrates 150th anniversary

Waters Edge Craft Sale

Saturday, April 22rd

10am – 3pm

Waters Edge Clubhouse 15290

Farmham Ave N. Hugo

CCW Spring Jewelry & Craft Sale

The St. Odilia Council of Catholic Women is holding a Jewelry & Craft Sale. Huge selections of costume jewelry, fabrics, and glassware items will be priced to sell & must go! Quilts, blankets, baby items & more - handmade by CCW crafters.

Sale dates

Saturday April 29 - noon to 6:30 p.m.

Sunday April 30 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

St. Odilia Church, 3495 N. Victoria, Shoreview, MN. 55126

PRESS PUBLICATIONS IS SEEKING A

Staff Writer

Press Publications in White Bear Lake is seeking a staff writer to join its award-winning team. As a staff writer-reporter you will be responsible for coordinating editorial content and layout for our newspapers, website and social media pages. In addition to writing stories, the job will require attending meetings, taking photographs, assisting with the layout process, coordinating, writing occasional editorial columns and maintaining a positive relationship with the community at large. We are looking for a candidate who is an efficient writer, passionate about local community news and great at time managment. Candidates should have a degree in journalism (or a related field) and have relevant experience. To apply, please send resume, cover letter and three writing samples to quadnews@presspubs.com.

NOW HIRING DRIVERS

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

651-653-9845

4687 Bald Eagle Ave., WBL 55110

Housecleaners Needed!

Up to $18/hr

3-5 days/wk Must be thorough cleaner! Maids of White Bear

651-247-2807

PT Admin Position in WBL Circulation Dept. 15-20 hrs/week. Call Lisa 651-407-1205

www.presspubs.com

NOW HIRING!

Deputy Clerk/Office Administrator

White Bear Township, located in the Northeast Metro, is accepting applications for the position of a full time Deputy Clerk/Office Administrator. Applicant will execute a wide spectrum of administrative and office support responsibilities.

Duties include, but are not limited to, ensuring that Township policies, procedures, ordinances, legal requirements, and agreements are completed, followed up on, and/or updated as needed. Manages

daily, weekly and monthly organizational and procedural duties as required and/ or requested by the Town Board and its Boards and Commissions. Performs in-house legal tasks in conjunction with the Township Attorney’s oversight. Performs a variety

Snuggle Me Organic in V.H. Hiring FT & PT Warehouse; also Assembly Team Members, M-F Flexible Hrs. Send Resume to: becky@ snugglemeorganic.com

Part-time Public Works Employee

The City of Lexington is accepting applications for a part-time public works employee to assist the public works department in regular maintenance and repair work associated with the city’s parks, buildings, streets, and utilities. The position is 20-30 hours per week – flexible hours. A high school diploma and a valid driver's license with a clean driving record is essential.

Applications available

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm, at Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 or online at http://www.ci.lexington.mn.us/.

Salary Range: $17.05-$18.76/hour. For more information call 763-784-2792. Position is open until filled.

Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

Frank Watson

Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com Timing is everything. It hadn’t been the best weather heading into the Easter weekend with snow, sleet, rain, wind and thunder, but we saved the best weather since mid November for this past weekend. Temperatures soared into the 60’s and winds died down a bit and Easter weekend was a winner. The warmer temperatures even persisted into the workweek. With big temperature fluctuations, it looks like colder temperatures for this weekend. Lake ice watch is on. Any predictions of when area lakes will clear?

of administrative and support duties to ensure legal compliance and effective operation of the Township’s office functions.

Education and/or experience requirements are as follows: Bachelor’s Degree and/or a minimum of five years of experience in a Public Administration support role; or equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. Hiring range will be $65,542-$69,846. The Township provides health and retirement benefits.

Please apply through our applicant portal at the Township’s website: http://www.whitebeartownship.org/jobs.aspx

Priority consideration will be given to applicants who complete their application by noon on April 24th.

THE BEST PLACE YOU’LL EVER WORK!

Now hiring:

• Recreation Staff

• Park Maintenance Staff

• Building Supervisor

Learn more and apply at CityofRoseville.com/jobs

SEASONAL MAINTENANCE WORKERS POSITIONS

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance

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 starting at $20.00/hour. 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 “http:// www.whitebeartownship.org”

Application deadline: Open until positions filled.

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.

Centennial High School students hear the truth about substance use

Students at Centennial High School recently heard stories of addiction, overdoses and regret — but more importantly, hope.

Isaac, a presenter from Minnesota Prevention and Recovery Alliance’s (MnPRA) Know the Truth program, shared his personal story.

Growing up, Isaac had a loving family and everything that a child could ask for. But, in eighth grade, he was prescribed Adderall and began abusing his medication, even selling some to a classmate thinking it would be a onetime thing. Before he knew it, Isaac was selling Adderall to a bunch of middle school students. Within months, Isaac had made drug-dealing his lifestyle. It became his way to fit in while moving from school to school.

After being caught for selling Adderall, Isaac was sent to a summer treatment program, where he recalls, “The only thing that it did was surround me with more kids that had behavioral issues. I found my crowd.”

These new “friends” introduced him to marijuana and Xanax. The following years were filled with treatment centers, overdoses, 72-hour holds, self-harm and denial. By 17, Isaac was charged with a felony and was using Percocet during his probation to avoid positive drug test results. Consumed

by anger, regret and a lack of purpose, he attempted to take his own life. He survived and attended a nine-month treatment center, but it wasn’t enough to keep him clean.

At 19, Isaac finally chose his family over his addiction. He attended a 13-month treatment program at Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge, and has just hit his one-year sobriety date. Now, he feels blessed to work with Know the Truth and share his story with students to help them avoid the pitfalls he struggled with.

Know the Truth utilizes a peer-topeer format where presenters, often just a few years older than the students, share their personal struggles with substance use. This allows students to open up and helps Know the Truth bridge the gap between students and the parents, caregivers, teachers and community leaders who support them.

Reaching people early is critical for preventing future substance use. Nearly 90% of Americans who struggle with addiction started using illicit substances before age 18, and research shows that the likelihood of lifetime substance use drops by nearly 5% for each year that initial substance use is delayed. Sadly, youth substance use continues to be on the rise in Minnesota. More than one-third of high school students

reported using a substance during the past year, and more than half of students reported using or considering using substances to cope with mental health concerns.

Since the Know the Truth program began more than a decade ago, it has seen significant success in helping prevent substance use among Minnesota’s young people. After hearing the presentation, students are two times less likely to try a substance. For students at Centennial High School, this means that 94% of students said it would be very unlikely that they would use prescription pills not medically prescribed to them in a survey following the presentation.

One student said, “Hearing the personal stories was very impactful and gave me a bigger perspective on the topics discussed in the presentation.”

“Teachers and administrators often express how important the presentations are for their students,” says Sadie Brown, assistant director of MnPRA. “Our format sparks conversation and understanding. Students learn that no one wakes up wishing to be addicted, and most people who struggle with addiction don’t see it coming. Instead, little choices made along the way lead to addiction.”

Contributed

Editor’s note: Isaac’s last name could not be shared due to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

CONTRIBUTED

Isaac, a presenter from Minnesota Prevention and Recovery Alliance’s Know the Truth program, shares his story with Centennial High School students.

Kicking Grass: Native plantings foster environmental health

BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

For over 50 years, Earth Day has fostered awareness and action for the health of the environment. In that time, it has served to encourage large-scale efforts, like national and worldwide advocacy as well as localized work, in acts as simple as planting a tree.

The Earth Day theme for 2023 is “Invest in Our Planet.” One of their suggestions for homeowners is to “Plant native species and pollinators to support biodiversity and beautify your outdoor living space.” This is not a new idea; homeowners have been incorporating, and even replacing their lawns with, native plants for years.

Turf grass common to residential lawns promotes chemical use and supplemental watering, while offering no ecological value. Implications are far reaching, touching on groundwater and surface water quality, the pollinator crisis, and more. Converting lawn space to native plantings can help solve all of those problems, often with added benefits.

Native plants—especially those from the tallgrass prairie— require little to no watering to thrive. Their root systems reach deep into soils (some over 10 feet), which make them highly resistant to droughts. Placing them in the hottest, driest parts of a yard can reduce or even eliminate watering needs.

Because native plants have been present on the landscape for millennia, animal species utilize them heavily.

Mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects use native plant communities across seasons and habitats for food and cover. This is especially true for insects, many of which have suffered severe declines in population due to intensive farming, development, pesticides and other factors. Some have very specific plant needs for their life cycles.

One example is the Karner blue, a small butterfly classified as endangered in Minnesota. It requires habitats which include wild lupine (Lupinus perennis), the only plant Karner blue caterpillars eat. Due to overwhelming loss of those habitats, it is possible that only one site in the state still maintains

CONTRIBUTED

Replacing ordinary grass with native plants invites wildlife, while allowing us to water less often. Pollinators like this bumble beelove Rough blazing star (Liatris aspera), which does well in dry, sandy soils. (Photo by Roy Heilman)

a population of this rare species.

Monarch butterflies, which were classified as endangered last year by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, famously require milkweed for the production of their caterpillars. While there are several native milkweeds suitable for monarchs, they (and other butterflies) also need nectar-producing plants throughout the season. There are many such plants endemic to this region, including Meadow blazing star (Liatris ligulistylis), Stiff goldenrod (Solidago rigida), Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) and Purple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea).

Monarch Joint Venture (MJV) is a national partnership network for monarch and pollinator conservation headquartered in St. Paul. Executive Director Wendy Caldwell says homeowners can make meaningful impacts on behalf of pollinators.

“We embrace this research called ‘All Hands on Deck,’ which basically shows that to reach our monarch conservation goals—which can serve as a proxy for pollinator population goals—we need all hands on deck to get there. Getting homeowners to convert their lawn to more native plants, to pollinator habitat, certainly contributes to that collective goal of restoring pollinator populations.”

Caldwell says any thing helps, and that discontinuing pesti cides is critical: “With species like monarchs, more is always better. But monarchs use a lot of different kinds of habitat. No habitat is too small ... Remember, when you’re

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

board shall review the valuation, classification, or both if necessary, and shall correct it as needed. Generally, an appearance before your Local Board of Appeal and Equalization is required by law before an appeal can be taken to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization.

Given under my hand this 6th day of April, 2023.

Teresa Bender, CMC, City Clerk

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on April 11, 2023.

planting pollinator habitat, you’ll be attracting insects. So don’t use things that kill insects.”

Establishing a native garden can be done in a few simple steps:

1. Identify a site, preferably with good sun exposure.

2. Assess the soil in order to determine which plants will do well there.

3. Select plants that will bloom at different times, and from sellers that offer local genetic strains.

4. Keep plants watered for the first few weeks, and through any drought conditions in the first growing season.

An alternative to drier, prairie-like plantings is rain gardens. Designed to improve water quality by capturing runoff, they can replace grass in what is often the most parched portion of lawns: the boulevard. Native species adapted to moist soils are usually best, like Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) and Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium maculatum). By coupling a rain garden with other plantings, one can easily multiply the number of native plant species in one yard by a factor of two or more.

In preparing to convert turf grass to more beneficial vegetation, there are many good websites to consult, including Monarch Joint Venture and the Xerces Society, for information about things like how to kill existing grass without using herbicides.

Funds may also be available. Lawns to Legumes is a Minnesota cost-share program for establishing pollinator habitat. Ramsey County offers cost sharing and technical assistance for rain gardens and native plantings; consult its Soil & Water Conservation webpage for more information. The Landscape Revival Native Plant Market and Expo will take place June 10 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Shoreview. Consult bigriverbigwoods.org for details.

Roy Heilman is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He news@presspubs. or 651-407-1200.

WEEKLY WAG

1.

2.

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Ashley Maria Heck 1040 County Road B West,Roseville MN 55113

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: March 31, 2023

Signed: Ashley Heck

Published two times in the Quad Community Press Press on April 11 and 18, 2023.

CITY OF CENTERVILLE

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF ANOKA

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY

This may affect your 2024 property tax payments.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Board of Appeal and Equalization for the City of Centerville shall meet on April 26, 2023, 6:30 p.m., or shortly thereafter, at Centerville City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether taxable property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor, and to determine whether corrections need to be made. If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you are still not satisfied with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization. The

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 12

CENTENNIAL

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

REQUESTS FOR PROPOSALS

Independent School District #12, Centennial Public Schools will receive electronic proposals for: Section 403(b) Services for Employees until 3:00 pm on Thursday, May 4, 2023.

Proposals will be received by the Executive Director of Business Services Centennial School District 12 – Patrick Chaffey.

The Centennial School District 12 is seeking a recordkeeping service provider for a retirement savings plan set up under Section 403(b). These services may be provided by one Respondent providing all of the services or by multiple Respondents each providing one or more services together under one proposal. Interested parties may request additional information by contacting Patrick Chaffey at PChaffey@isd12.org.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #12

CENTENNIAL PUBLIC SCHOOLS, CIRCLE PINES, MN

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on April 11 and 18, 2023.

LINO LAKES STORAGE

PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the personal property listed below will be sold at public auction closing on April 21st, 2023 at 12:00 pm. The auction is being hosted on www.bid13.com. The property is being stored at Lino Lakes Storage 440 Park Court Lino Lakes, MN 55014. Description of the goods and the names of the persons whose personal property is to be sold is as follows:

Unit 413: Richard Willey with a last known address of Lino Lakes, MN. Household goods, tools.

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on April 4 and 11, 2023.

If you’re looking to train a young dog to become a wonderful partner or addition to your family, then Arthur is waiting for you. Arthur is a handsome young guy, about a year old. This 20-pound shepherd mix is goofy and friendly; he loves everyone he meets. He is eager to please and, according to his foster, has been easy to train. Arthur is already house-trained and knows some of his basic commands, but additional, formal training would be a wonderful bonding opportunity for Arthur and his new family member(s).

He loves to play, go on walks and explore, and he likes to go for car rides. Arthur is kennel-trained, but he is an affectionate boy who likes to be with his people as much as he can. Arthur arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local impound lap and is waiting for a family who will give him the love, time and training he needs to be his best.

If you are interested in learning more about Arthur or adopting him, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

Centennial grad publishes children’s book based on life

Lino Lakes native Emily Mireault, a 2015 graduate of Centennial High School, now lives on a hobby farm with her husband, Tanner. She was inspired to write a children’s book about their pig, named Easter.

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I’m Emily! Formerly O’Connell, now Mireault. I grew up in Lino Lakes and attended Centennial (graduated in 2015). I went on to Augsburg University for marketing and management and graduated in 2018. Now, I own a hobby farm about 30 minutes north.

Q. Is writing your full-time gig? Part-time gig? A hobby?

A: Writing is a hobby for me. I’m a big fan of poetry (specifically rhyming). I have been writing a lot on LinkedIn lately, and decided to blend that love for writing with my love for farm animals.

Q: Where did you come up with the idea to write a children’s book? Why was that something that interested you?

A: We rescued a pig named Easter in 2021 and it has been quite the adventure! She’s the center of a lot of stories we tell and reactions we get when people visit, so that’s where the children’s book writing began.

Q: Tell us about your book, “Easter the Pig,” and the entire Minnesota Farmstead book series.

A: Easter the Pig is the first (and currently only) book in the Minnesota Farmstead series. We also have sheep, dogs and donkeys, so stay tuned for future releases.

Q: Tell us about the process you went through to get the book published.

A: I wrote the book start to finish. After that was complete, I used Canva to lay out the pages and how the words and images would fall. Then, we decided to go the self-illustration route rather than hiring an illustrator. To do so, we used real images from the farm and cartoonized them using an app. Shoutout to my husband Tanner for all of his help! Once that was complete, we uploaded the full file to KDP, Amazon’s self-publishing arm. Once it was approved, we put it up for sale!

Q: What do you like about writing for a children’s audience?

A: There’s a childlike innocence that is so beautiful.

When I think of petting zoos, I think of smiling kiddos. It seemed like the perfect way to blend passions. Also, we have our first child on the way!

Q: What do you hope people gain from reading your book?

A: Honestly, smiles. It’s a true story and it’s our lives. We hope it brings joy to others, too!

Q: Where is the book sold?

A: “Easter the Pig” can be found on Amazon!

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