Quad Community Press

Local artists featured in ‘A Pandemic Picture Book’

Blue Heron Days

“The House We Sheltered In” and “The Masks We Wore: A Pandemic Picture Book” written by Freeman NG, is a dual-volume children’s book illustrated by 13 artists. Two of these illustrators are locals — Annie Kuhn from Marine on St. Croix and Sara Nintzel from Blaine.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself. Where did you grow up? How did you get to where you are today?

A: (Annie Kuhn) I grew up in Marine on St. Croix, Minnesota, where I read piles and piles of books. English classes were my favorites in high school, so I went to college with the intention of being an English/ Creative Writing major. But I came from a

SEE PICTURE BOOK, PAGE 6

Rice Creek Covenant Church merges locations with Gloryhouse International Church

BY MERRINA O’MALLEY PRESS INTERN

Rice Creek Covenant Church, a local Evangelical church in Lino Lakes, will merge with Gloryhouse International Church, a fellowship currently located in Wayzata that is mostly composed of people of African descent. Gloryhouse also has missions based in Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda.

Since 2018, Rice Creek Covenant Church has sought ways to use their

church building more effectively and to leave a positive, lasting effect on the community.

“Our mission is very basic,” said Rice Creek Covenant Church Pastor Toni Schwabe. “Love God and love others.”

Dave Abrahamson, a leader at the Rice Creek Church, first heard of Gloryhouse after meeting pastor George Ata-Baah. The two kept in contact to share their musical talent

SEE RICE CREEK, PAGE 2

Gloryhouse International Church leadership and Rice Creek Covenant Church Council members during a meeting to discuss joining the two churches together. From left to right: Pastor George and Florence Ata-Baah, Tom Brandt, Pastor Toni Schwabe, Jeremy, Jenny Sherer, and Nancy Olen. LISA SELLNER | CONTRIBUTED

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED Sara Nintzel Annie Kuhn

during services and special holiday events at both churches.

The plan to merge the two churches began when Tom Brandt, drummer and Church Council Chair, reached out to Gloryhouse International Church after hearing their need for another location from Dave Abrahamson.

After meeting with Gloryhouse Church members, the Rice Creek Covenant Church made plans to host both church services at their Lino Lakes location beginning on Aug. 6. For now, both churches will hold

separate services and Bible study times on Sundays, but will join together for coffee and mingling in between. Members of both churches are welcome to attend either service. Rice Creek Covenant Church will continue to host events like picnics, barbecues, and musical performances where both fellowships are welcome to join.

Merrina O’Malley is an intern with Press Publications. She can be reached by emailing intern2@presspubs.com or by calling 651-407-1200.

The city of Lino Lakes has crowned its three new ambassadors to represent the city for 20232024. They include (from left to right): Libbie Vander Vegt, Carley Gooder and Katie Kerr. Look for an article about the new ambassadors in an upcoming issue of the Quad Community Press.

CONTRIBUTED Blue Heron Days will be Aug. 17-20. See calendar listing for more information.

POPS ON THE PORCH

When: 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic and enjoy the Big Band sounds of the Moonlight Serenaders. Free; donations welcome.

Contact: whitebearhistory.org

GOLDEN LAKE GALLOP

When: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 12

Where: Golden Lake Park, 67 West Golden Lake Rd., Circle Pines

Details: Fun run for walkers and runners of all abilities supports the Centennial High School Cross Country program.

Contact: isd12.org/communityeducation

VADNAIS HEIGHTS HERITAGE DAYS

When: Aug. 14-20

Where: Community Park and Vadnais Heights Commons

Details: Annual community festival includes medallion hunt, pickball tournament, kickball tournament, bean bag tournament, fun run, car show, Lions pig roast, kids activities, vendor market, inlatables, grande parade, live music and fireworks.

Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com

CENTENNIAL FOOD TRUCK & FUN

FESTIVAL

When: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17

Where: Centennial Middle School, 399 Elm St., Lino Lakes

Details: Food trucks, Minnesota Sings vocal competition at 6 p.m., car show, cheer performance, robotics demo.

Contact: communityed.isd12.org

BLUE HERON DAYS

When: Aug. 17-20

Where: Kids games, contests, bounce houses, pony rides, touch-a-truck, food trucks, parade, corn feed. See schedule of events online.

Contact: linolakes.us

SOLAR DYEING

When: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19

Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Gather nature items to arrange patterns on cloth and apply a special dye that is activated by the sun to make a bandana. Registration required.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

CAMPFIRE TALKS

When: 7-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Campground; 7373 Main St, Lino Lakes Details: Join a naturalist at the amphitheater for a program that includes a campfire, interactive

activities, and presentation on “Wild Cats” Free.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

ONGOING EVENTS

CENTERVILLE MAIN STREET MARKET

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays, July 6-Aug. 10

Where: 1721 West View Ave., next to Centerville Elementary

Details: Items made by local artisans, produce, live music, and food trucks. Stay to watch Bald Eagle Water Ski Show.

CIRCLE LEX FARMER’S MARKET

When: 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays, June 14Oct. 4

Where: Back parking lot, Lexington Municipal Liquor Store, 4139 Woodland Rd.

Details: Open air market with local vegetables, crafters, and baked goods. Rain or shine.

Contact: 612-272-3386

In Vino Veritas: Couple opens wine bar next door

BY SEBASTIAN STUDIER PRESS INTERN

Take a break from your phone, make real-life connections and sip some wine at In Vino Veritas, Shoreview’s new intimate wine bar.

Cory Morrison remembers the moment he knew he wanted to create In Vino Veritas.

It was Halloween night and he was at a small wine bar in Sauk Rapids with his wife Farzana. Farzana looked at Cory and said, “I could see us doing this.”

“That’s all I needed,” Cory said.

Cory says he and his wife Farzana stumbled into the wine bar business.

Cory was in the Navy and is a former electrician who never saw that as his passion, but he always knew it would pay the bills. But the dream of a wine bar has always been there for Cory. He always wanted to run his own business and at twenty-five, he wanted to start a bar in Amery, Wisconsin but did not have the money available for a down payment.

Farzana worked for 22 years in corporate America as a program manager and submitted her resignation just days after the wine bar’s opening.

The couple feels blessed to run their business in Shoreview, an “amazing” city where all the other

business owners came together and supported the couple during their opening process.

The couple felt particularly welcomed by Doug McCulloh, the owner of the Winkin Rooster restaurant across the street who is one of the business owners who has helped without being asked.

“Shoreview is all about local owned,” Cory said. “They’re all about supporting their own, and I feel blessed to be in this area.”

Farzana was able to put her creativity to work when designing the relaxed atmosphere of the bar.

In Latin, the phrase “In Vino Veritas” means “In wine, there is truth”.

“The whole vibe and inspiration of this place is that we want to get to the truth,” Farzana said.

Farzana believes that the couple is trying to get away from the online culture existing in today’s society and would like their customers to have truthful, meaningful, face-to-face conversations inside of the bar. The couple hopes people can get turn off their phones and get the “truth” rather than the false reality that exists online.

“COVID really screwed up communication with people. People don’t get out there and shake hands anymore. They don’t say hi. They just keep their head down, texting on their phone,” Cory said. “Personal communication between people is what I wanted when I started this.”

In Vino Veritas is located at 1080 County Road E. West in Shoreview. Hours are 3-10 p.m. TuesdayThursday and Sunday and 3 p.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday.

For more information, visit i-v-v.com/.

Sebastian Studier is an intern at Press Publications.

He can be reached by calling 651-242-2775 or emailing intern1@presspubs.com.

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 761757

TOGETHER PLACE CHURCH

“Because we’re in this together.”

Call 763-784-1607

for Together Times

3860 Flowerfield Rd, Circle Pines togetherplacechurch.org facebook.com/togetherplacechurch 761679

SEBASTIAN STUDIO | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

In Vino Verita owners Cory and Farzana Morrison.

OPINION

Inflation is slowing

The Feds just raised interest rates a quarter percent, hoping to get inflation under 3%. The side effects are rippling through the economy. There are some signs that food prices are coming down. However, not gasoline, dining out, and perhaps most important of all, not mortgage costs which have doubled. There are no immediate signs of declining.

F inancial experts, lenders and real estate people tell us we should not spend more than 30% of our annual income on housing costs.

Higher interest rates have a big effect on the cost of your next home if you are planning to buy. For example, in the metro area if you were going to buy a $400,000 home and the mortgage interest was 3%, that would cost you $1,686 per month and your income would have to be at least $67,440.

About the Town

Gene Johnson

Now the interest is at 6%. That would bring the monthly payment to $2,398 and your income would have to be over $95,920.

A big issue before you make a decision.

T here is a shortage of homes on the market and the prices have gone up rather dramatically after the COVID crisis and inflation factors. What are young people who want to buy a home supposed to do? If you are single, you may continue to live with your parents. If you are married, maybe there is an apartment in your parent’s or a friend’s basement. Some singles are joining together with others, sometimes four or five, to rent a home.

I have also learned of some apartments and condos with as low as 500 square feet that are available to rent or lease.

It has been a dream for many to own a home because they grow in value. With inflation getting under control, I have talked to so-called experts and they tell me prices are not going down. They will still creep up with the short supply. Many home sales find the prices being bid up $10,000 and $20,000 more than the asking price just because of shortage and demand.

A s a result, people aren’t willing to sell. They are staying where they are. When interest rates go back down, that may be another story.

Caught in coin counting

T he other day I took my piggy bank to US Bank where they have a coin counting machine available. There was a sign indicating it was out of order so I inquired when it might be repaired. They said a part was ordered, but they weren’t sure. I innocently asked what happened to it and the staff member said you just won’t believe what we find people are trying to run through the machine. They said it’s not only odd coins, but recently they had teeth caught in it. I never thought of a piggy bank as a place to save teeth. I didn’t know what they meant by this, whether it was a gold-filled one or a child’s tooth that they hadn’t put under their pillow for a reward. I had to try another bank.

Showboat Relocated

I’m sure many of you, like Kathy and I, remember the Minnesota Centennial Showboat docked at St. Paul’s Harriet Island where the University of Minnesota theater group put on productions during the summers. It was fun to go there, the plays were good, and it made for a wonderful evening on the Mississippi River.

A couple weeks ago when we were in Winona with our daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Chuck, they took us up the Mississippi River to just below lock 5 where the old showboat is moored at a Wisconsin docking facility. It’s just sitting there.

W hat happened? Well, the U of M theater was able to get a new showboat in December, 2000. The partnership would be with the city of St. Paul Riverfront Development, the Padelford Packet Boat Co. and the University of Minnesota. The construction began the following spring in Greenville, Mississippi. The new showboat arrived at Harriet Island on April 17, 2002. The final curtain call was in the 2016 summer season.

T he William A. Thompson Dredge Museum hoped to raise enough money to purchase the old showboat and Dave Belz and Bob Harris set out to raise funds to buy the boat and transport it from St. Paul to Winona.

T he plan was to have it moored at the new updated Levee Park in Winona and it would be a venue for area arts, culture and events. The showboat arrived in Winona in 2019 and it looks like not enough money was raised to utilize it for that intent. Therefore, it continues to be idled below lock and dam 5. I cannot confirm, but it’s estimated that it cost them $60,000 to purchase it and have it delivered to Winona. Maybe someone will come along and help bring the old showboat back to life.

Legislature takes historic action

With the 2023 legislative session completed, I’m proud of the historic action we took to make Minnesota the best state to live, work, and raise a family. For the first time in a decade, we ended the gridlock and started addressing problems Minnesotans have been facing for years. My votes for better schools, responsible tax relief, public safety, mental health, environmental safeguards, and human rights were based on thousands of conversations I had with members of our community over the past two years. W hen you send your children back to the classroom this fall, they’ll return to a school with more funding than ever before, have access to robust mental health services, and every student will get a breakfast and a lunch at school – no questions asked. As Vice Chair of the Senate Education Finance Committee, I focused on providing schools with the resources they need to serve our students. Our education budget provides stability for

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

school budgets, increases aid for school safety, addresses the opportunity gap, and makes a historic investment in reading and literacy programs. The school districts in our area will receive a combined $60.7 million dollar increase in funding over the next two years.

We also took major action to prevent crime and improve community safety. I chief authored the $300 milliondollar public safety package that supports the needs of every city, county, and Tribal nation in Minnesota. My bill secured over $13 million for Anoka, Ramsey, and Washington counties, and a combined $3.76 million for the cities in our district, including White Bear Township. This law also maintains local control so local governments will decide how best to use the money.

Additionally, we delivered sensible gun safety laws by creating extreme risk protection orders and expanding background checks.

I’m also proud to report several of my bills concerning domestic abuse and sexual assault passed with bipartisan support. Our conservation work was also successful. We ensured a safer and healthier environment, preventing further PFAS pollution and expanding renewable energy.

I also secured $13.5 million dollars for a new Lino Lakes

water treatment center that will improve access to clean water for our residents.

Our caregivers are in crisis, and we responded to support them, too. At $1.35 billion, our Human Services budget is Minnesota’s largest ever investment in the caregiving industry. $889 million will address personnel shortages, while $556.1 million will help people receive care while staying in their homes. Family members who perform care can now be compensated financially. Another $400 million is provided to help nursing homes cover skyrocketing costs.

I promised to put money back in the pockets of our families too, and that’s what we did. We lowered the cost of living for the average family by $2,375 and put tax dollars back into our communities. In fact, thanks to my work on the tax bill, 85% of Minnesotans now get relief from Social Security income tax. This year, I also introduced legislation to provide tax relief to small businesses, and I look forward to advancing that bill next year.

I f you need assistance or want to share your views with me, reach out: sen.heather. gustafson@senate.mn.

S enator Heather Gustafson represents Minnesota Senate District 36.

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: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave. White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

651-407-1200

Witnesses to the Kingdom of Heaven

So many people understand the Kingdom of Heaven to be where we go after we die. But did you know it is both in the here and now AND after we die. Jesus does what he can to explain the kingdom of heaven many times to his disciples to make sure they understand, but even now as modern-day disciples, we don’t always know what the Kingdom of heaven looks like!

W hen I asked people what The Kingdom of Heaven is like, some of my answers included; a family reunion where long lost loved ones greet one another, or the feeling of holding your baby for the first time, or driving through a neighborhood and waving at those you pass.

T hese all make us, perhaps, feel all warm and fuzzy.

Pastor’s Ponderings

New election laws take effect

Many voting laws that were passed as part of Minnesota’s historic voting legislation are now in effect. The measures include expanding access to voting and clarify existing language around campaigning near polling places.

The new laws, include, but are not limited to:

• Expanding the right to be absent from work to vote any time during the 46-day absentee voting period, in addition to on election day; Extending the deadline for all absentee and mail ballots to be returned to 8 p.m. on election day; and,

• Allowing voters to sign in electronically when e-poll books are used.

in the coming year, that will improve the voting experiences across the state making us a leader in elections administration for years to come.”

In addition, language clarifying the existing prohibition on campaigning near polling places will take effect. The law will prohibit wearing, exhibiting, or distributing any item that displays:

• the name, likeness, logo, or slogan of a candidate who appears on the ballot; the number, title, subject, slogan, or logo of a ballot question that appears on the ballot; or,

• the name, logo, or slogan of a political party represented by a candidate on the ballot.

Several significant election laws that were passed in the 2023 legislative session have already gone into effect in Minnesota. These include the restoration of the right to vote for those with felony convictions who are not currently incarcerated; pre-registration for 16-and-17year-olds; and, protections for election workers from threats and harassment.

Mollie Dvorak

But what if we don’t know what the kingdom of heaven is REALLY like? Dear friends… there is no need to have it all figured out to understand what the Kingdom of Heaven is like, because we get to experience what the Kingdom of Heaven is like in the here and now.

T he Kingdom of Heaven is like, the simple gestures of kindness and generosity we see among the chaos. The Kingdom of Heaven is likeloving your neighbor and reminding them they are not lost or forgotten but remembered and so loved! The Kingdom of Heaven is like seeing people trying to do the right thing, learning and becoming aware of their gifts and figuring out how to share them in this messy, confusing, and broken world.

M ay we remain observant to the many ways we are witness to the Kingdom of Heaven this month… And even if it takes a few times, or a lot of times, seeing it in action in order for it to sink in, that’s ok… there is grace for that!

“Minnesota is seeing the enactment of once-in-a-generation legislation that will make our democracy stronger by expanding access while improving security,” said Secretary Steve Simon. “Numerous small and large changes are being put into place right now, and will continue

The updated law clarifies that these prohibitions apply only during voting hours. They also apply during the absentee/early voting periods, to include the polling place and “within 100 feet of the room in which a polling place is situated, to the extent practicable.”

Camila is a sweet and gentle young lady, patiently waiting for her forever family and home. She loves going for walks and is very social with other dogs. In fact, Camila quickly became best friends with her foster fur brother and sister, and she would do excellent in a home with another dog or dogs. Camila is a four-year old Shepherd/ Hound mix and weighs about 70 pounds. She is a bit timid and shy at first, but once she gets to know you and trust is gained, which is not a long timeline, Camila will love you forever. When she’s not playing with the other dogs, Camila likes to curl up on the couch next to her people and she really likes to snuggle in bed in the mornings. Camila arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the organization’s Lone Star to North Star program. She is house trained, social and friendly to everyone she meets. If you are interested in learning more about Camila 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.

Other election laws passed in the 2023 legislative session will go into effect in 2024 and beyond including automatic voter registration; legislative district map modifications impact in boundaries in senate districts 9, 12, 17, and 44; the creation of a permanent absentee voter list; expanded hours for voting before election day; and, the creation of an 18-day early voting period. Details on these laws and more are available on the Minnesota Secretary of State website.

Minnesota Secretary of State From project newsletter

BUSINESS BRIEF

Lyngblomsten looking for volunteers

Lyngblmsten in Lino Lakes is looking for volunteers. The senior living facility will host a new volunteer information session from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22 at its campus located at 6070 Blanchard Boulevard. This is a drop-in event, where people can learn about volunteering at Lyngblomsten’s new Lino Lake campus or its Como Park campus in St. Paul. iPads will be available for people to fill out applications online if they’d like to.

PET MEMORIAL

Upcoming Games

Mollie Dvorak is the pastor at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Circle Pines.

July 2023 Carrier of the Month Michael Luecke

Camila

PICTURE BOOK: Blaine author, illustrator finishing 3rd book

very creative family. My dad had been an art teacher when I was young, and my mom was also highly creative, always crocheting, sewing, taking ceramics classes and more. At college, I found myself pulled in the direction of art, so I followed my heart. I majored in art and minored in creative writing. I then bounced around creatively. I worked as a freelance artist, costume designer, art store manager, and more before I found myself wanting to write again. So, I got an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults. I then spent ten years teaching creative writing, composition, and literature courses at the college level. I also own Red Bridge Editorial, an editing and ghostwriting service, and I have ten years of experience working at independent children’s bookstores. I have poetry, essays, reviews and illustrations published in books and magazines in the U.S.

A: (Sara Nintzel) Creativity and Art have always been a big part of my life. I’ve enjoyed drawing since I was a kid and always loved children’s books. My Mom and I would take many trips to the library, and I remember studying the illustrations in the new books. I went to school for Fashion Design and currently design kids clothing for a large retailer.

Q: What drew you to being an illustrator?

A: (Annie Kuhn) I have known since childhood that I wanted

to make children’s books when I grew up. While I do not recall my specific age or the book which inspired it, I do know the exact moment the idea lodged itself in my soul. I was browsing through books in the elementary school library when I spied an old favorite. I pulled the book off the shelf and paged through, lovingly. Then I closed the cover and held the book tightly in my hands, feeling filled with emotion and gratitude toward the author. I said to myself, “Someday I’m going to make a book for kids that will touch someone’s life the way this book has touched mine.” I don’t know if I’ve achieved that yet, but that’s what motivates me.

Q: What inspired you during the creation of this book?

A: (Sara Nintzel) As a mom of two young boys, during the pandemic we spent much of our time at home and coming up with ways to stay busy. My artwork was inspired by them washing the dishes, this is something that would keep their attention for quite some time. They loved it! We also made a lot of window and chalk artwork as a way to spread some cheer which shows up in a couple of my illustrations.

Q: How long did it take? How was it working with 13 other artists?

A: (Annie Kuhn) This is a unique project. While picture books sometimes have writing or illustration “teams,” they are often pairs of friends or family members, such as Diane and Leo Dillon, a husband and wife illustration duo. Freeman’s

vision was to capture the diverse experience of the pandemic by having a diverse array of illustration styles. I loved this idea! We had a global shared experience, but it looked a bit different in each home or region. So, he reached out to hundreds of illustrators, and I was one of the lucky few who got to sign onto this project. As I was one of the last to sign on, I created four illustrations for the book over a period of about six months. And I was amazed at how smoothly everything ran, thanks to Freeman’s awesome management skills! What message do you hope to leave with the people that read your book? That there were some positives during this incredibly challenging experience. So many people worked so hard to help make the best of a situation. Maybe gratitude is the message.

Q: Do you plan to participate in any future projects?

A: (Sara Nintzel) Yes, I’d like to. I recently attended the Society of Children’s Writers and Illustrators Conference in St. Paul and it was great meeting so many people passionate about writing and illustrating children’s books. Also, I’m finishing my third book, “Wonderful Being: Positive Affirmations for Kids,” with illustrated forest animals, to launch in fall 2023.

More information can be found about “A Pandemic Picture Book” on the website pandemicpb.com.

Merrina O’Malley

“The House We Sheltered In” and “The Masks We Wore: A

Picture

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Pandemic

Book” written by Freeman NG, is a dual-volume children’s book illustrated by 13 artists. Two of the illustrators are locals — Annie Kuhn from Marine on St. Croix and Sara Nintzel from Blaine.

COPS&COURTS

POLICE REPORTS

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• An officer arrested an adult female July 25 for an outstanding warrant at her residence on the 200 block of Apple Lane. The female was booked at jail.

• An officer responded July 25 to a suspicious activity report on the 800 block of Oak Lane. The officer documented the information and told involved parties to call 911 if the incident occurred again.

A community service officer responded July 25 to a report of an aggressive dog on the 6700 block of Redwood Avenue. The community service officer spoke with the owner of the involved dogs regarding city ordinances for dangerous dogs and dogs at large.

• A delayed gas drive-off on the 7000 block of 21st Avenue South July 25 was reported.

• An officer was dispatched July 25 to a hit and run motor vehicle property damage crash on the 500 block of Apollo Drive. The officer documented the incident and the parties involved were provided with a case number. The investigation is ongoing.

• A community service officer observed July 26 a semi with its hazard lights on, blocking part of the roadway on the 1800 block of Ash Street. The community service officer provided emergency lights, until the vehicle was moved to a safer parking spot.

A community service officer responded to a report of an injured coyote on the 6400 block of 20th Avenue July 26. The coyote was dispatched and disposed of.

• An officer responded July 26 to the report of smoke coming from a wooded area behind a residence on the 1400 block of Woodland Drive. The officer arrived and found an illegal fire burning. The fire was put out and the resident was given a warning and educated on city ordinances/state laws.

• An officer stopped a vehicle July 26 for failure to display license plates on the 7900 block of Lake Drive. The officer determined the temporary license for the vehicle had been stolen in another

CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• The City Council will be discussing cannabinoid products and businesses.

“I think it needs to be on our radar … We haven’t had that discussion,” Council Member Dean Goldberg said. “There is still a lot of gray areas needing to be worked out. These things are upon us so we need to act soon.”

Other council members agreed possible regulations, enforcement etc. need discussion.

• Motorists will notice construction along Lexington Avenue. City Administrator Patrick Antonen says the city was notified by the county engineer about the

844-605-7368

jurisdiction. The officer collected the necessary information and entered the temporary license as being stolen. Investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded July 27 to a report of a fight in progress between two males on the 400 block of 62nd Street. Officers spoke with parties involved and determined the conflict began as a civil disagreement but escalated to a physical altercation. The incident is under investigation.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation and the driver was found to be impaired on the 7700 block of Main Street. The driver was later charged with a moving violation and 4th degree DWI.

• Officers conducted a traffic stop July 28 on a vehicle for multiple traffic violations on the 220 block of Main Street. The male driver was arrested for DWI and later booked at the Anoka County Jail.

• An officer handled an identity theft case July 28 on the 300 block of Thomas Street. The officer investigated and learned the unknown suspect likely resides in another state. The investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded July 29 to a report of a possible impaired driver on Interstate 35W. The vehicle was located and officers conducted a traffic stop. The male driver was arrested and booked for 3rd degree DWI.

• Officers responded July 30 to a report of a suspicious male following two juvenile females on the 600 block of Apollo Drive. The officers located and stopped the male and questioned his behavior towards the juveniles. Based on the information, the officers determined no crime had been committed.

• An officer responded July 31 to a residence on the 7200 block of Geneva Court for a delayed report of a dog bite. The dog will be quarantined for 10 days.

• Officers responded July 31 to a report of a criminal sexual conduct incident on the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The case is under investigation.

improvement project, which includes repairs to storm sewer structures, catch basins, man holes and curb and gutter. The project will take four to five weeks, and motorists should expect periodic lane closures.

• The 2024 Centennial Fire District budget will increase by 21% due to an additional $116,000 in state aid. The Circle Pines portion of the budget will decrease by 0.7%.

• The city will close out the 2022 street improvement project by paying the final pay voucher of $50,371 to Kuechle Underground, Inc. The final payment was the amount the city was holding back until all final construction details were

844-605-7368

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• Officers were dispatched July 26 to the 3900 block of Restwood Road for a lift assist.

• Officers were dispatched July 26 to the 800 block of Civic Heights for a medical incident. The victim was transported to the hospital.

• Officers were dispatched July 27 to the 1700 block of Peltier Lake Drive on a report of a missing juvenile. The child was found in the 1800 block of Main Street.

• Police responded July 27 to a domestic escort request on Restwood Road.  Community Service Officers were contacted regarding a lost passport on Edgewood Road.

• Police on July 28 located three juveniles out past curfew on the 9300 block of Hamline Avenue. Parents were contacted and the juveniles were picked up.

• Police were called July 28 to the 3800 block of Restwood Road on a report of suspicious activity. Upon arrival, police learned individuals were looking for a lost ring.

• Police responded in Circle Pines for a report of a domestic escort.

• Officers were dispatched July 28 to the 200 block of Twilite Terrace for a suspicious person report.

• Officers spoke to juveniles July 29 about a curfew ordinance in the 9000 block of North Highway.

• Officers July 30 noted a suspicious vehicle in the 50 block of West Golden Lake Road.

• Police July 30 mediated a dispute between roommates in the 3800 block of Patriot Lane.

• Police July 30 took a report of a civil dispute in the 1800 block of Main Street.

• Officers responded July 31 to a report of trespassing in the 9100 block of South Highway Drive.

Sebastian Studier

completed. There is a two-year warranty on the project.

• Mayor Dave Bartholomay was issued a variance for his property on Golden Lake Road to allow construction of a detached garage. Antonen says city code usually requires detached garages to be located in backyards, but this would be impossible on Bartholomay’s lot due to the lake behind the home.

844-605-7368

The next City Council meeting is 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8 at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

AUGUST 1 7 th - 20th

Blue Heron Days boasts something for everyone

BY MERRINA O’MALLEY PRESS INTERN

Blue Heron Days will be celebrated in Lino Lakes this year Aug.17 through 20. This annual celebration includes many different festivities that are sure to be fun for the whole family.

The first day will be on Thursday, Aug. 17 and there will be a Food Truck & Fun Festival hosted by Centennial Community Education. The event is from 4 to 8 p.m. at Centennial Middle School, located at 399 Elm Street. Foods will range from tacos to donuts and even Vietnamese cuisine. There will also be a car show, and karaoke hosted by Minnesota Sings, where vocalists get the opportunity to advance to a statewide competition.

Centennial Cheer will also make an appearance at 5 p.m.

On Friday Aug. 18, there will be a free open swim as well as other activities at the Rookery Activity Center, located at 7690 Village Drive. The “Super Mario Movie” will also air in the Rookery gym (time to be determined). Throughout the day, there will be a chalk art contest, bouncy house, pony rides, bubble blowing contest, an obstacle course, Touch-a-Truck, face painting and activities with Endurance Fitness.

On Saturday, Aug. 19, a parade will be held at 11am. The route will go down Lake Drive, starting at Market Place Drive and ending at James Street. On Sunday, Aug. 20, there will be a garden tour and corn feed at Waldoch Farm, located at 8174 Lake

Drive. The business will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

With many events to choose from, Blue Heron Days offers something for everyone. More information can be found online at linolakes.us/407/Blue-Heron-Days.

What: Blue Heron Days festival

When: Aug. 17– 20

Where: Various locations in Lino Lakes

Details: The city of Lino Lakes works with local community organizations to bring a fun filled family event.

Route

Parade

Longtime community builder selected as Grand Marshal

BY MERRINA O’MALLEY PRESS INTERN

Dorothy Radermacher, 72, has been selected to be the Blue Heron Days Grand Marshal. She has been an important member of the Lino Lakes community for many years, and is a former executive director of the Quad Area Chamber of Commerce.

Since working in the service industry for several years and caring for her family tirelessly, she has learned to value community and connection with others.

“I grew up in a family that’s very much into community,” Radermacher said. “And what that means to me is volunteering and working together for the greater good.”

Although Radermacher is retired, she still works to contribute positively to the Lino Lakes community and help the state’s veterans. She participates in the chamber and spends much of her time working for nonprofits like the Centerville Lions and the Freedom Fishing Foundation amongst others.

Radermacher has helped out with Blue Heron Days for many years, coordinating the car show, vendor fair and many other festivities.

She is excited to participate as the Grand Marshal this year, and is honored to be selected for the position.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Dorothy Radermacher is this year’s Blue Heron Days Grand Marshal.

Blue Heron Days August 17th -20th

Presented by the Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566

Front row seating for Royal Parade Starts at 11AM

Live Music • Meat Raffle @ 2PM

$2 Tickets for chances at Big Packs of Meat!

SAL / RIDERS

Burgers, Brats & Hot Dogs (Chips included)

FRIDAY Pig Roast 5PM

SATURDAY Family PicnicBurgers, Brats & Hot Dogs (Chips included)

DJ/Karaoke Outside starting at 6PM

Live music: Tailspin Band Outside from 2-6PM

DJ/Karaoke 7-11PM

Inflatables and kids games by ALA

Free activities by Boy Scouts of America

SUN-MON Pulltabs

+ E-Bingo!

Karaoke 1st Friday of the month

7PM

Sunday 3-4PM (Must be present by 3PM and present to win. Drawing is at 4PM)

Join

Thursdays 5PM

Saturdays 2PM

See Bartender for information

us for Burger Night!

Scrap meta l applianc e pick up 65 1-329-0815

Exp. trustworth y, dependable caregiver for seniors. 651-770 -177 8

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate adv ertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion bas ed 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 custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law.

KMS PU BLIC SCHOOLS has midd le sch ool leve l Math

Teaching positio n beginn ing Fall 2023.

Qualifications: Current MN Educ ation licens Appl y: w ww. kms.k12.mn .us. Attach letter of inte est, resume, copy of license transcr ip ts three le tte rs of re commendation.

KMS PU BLIC SCHOOLS has Spec ial Educatio n Teaching positio n beginn ing Fall 2023.

Qualifications: Current MN Educ ation licens Appl y: w ww. kms.k12.mn .us. Attach letter of inte est, resume, copy of license transcripts and three letters of re commendation.

AN NANDALE SCHOOLS ARE HIRING!

•FT Night Shift Custodian, ex cellent pay and benefit pac kage.

•PT Custodian, excellent pay , 4-9 pm M-F, ye ar-round.

•Cook's Helpers, 4.5 hours per day during the school year

•Sup erb su bs and helpers te achers, pa ras, custod ians and more! Pick your availability.

•Special ed parapr ofessional s, 6.5-hour days during th e school ye ar, exce llent pay

•Health as sistant

6.75- hour day s M-F, exce llent pay, other benefits. Join our team! Visit: w ww.isd876.org, human resources page.

Fancy Pawz

Robin Udstuen | owner 15190 Everton Av. North, Hugo, Mn. 55038

651-485-9774

tcdistributing@msn.com

Let’s

Did you know that dogs can take natural herbs and vitamins and it might be beneficial for them. Herbs and Vitamins could help your dogs live a healthier and happier life. You can learn more on my website: HolisticHerbsForDogs.com - where you can watch my Podcast.

Canine

651-303-8053

Toro Power Broom

Used for clearing sidewalks, ice rink & driveway. Toro profession al series $3,750 61 2-599-172 nine

Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings adv ertised in this newsp ap er are av ailable on an equal oppor tunity bas is 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

Now Hiring

Administrative Assistant

Part Time, Mon. & Tues., 7:55am-4:00pm

Press Publications publishes 6 community newspapers, magazines and coupon books, serving White Bear Lake and surrounding communities. Our publications brings news of school events, government, business, politics, and social events to local residents.

Desired Skills & Experience: High school diploma required.

Ability to interact well with a broad base of internal and external clients, both in person, telephone and written communication. Reliable, responsible, and dependable in fulfilling obligations.Strong attention to detail and the ability to organize, prioritize, and multi task effectively. User of Microsoft Office suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, as well as Microsoft Office.

CITY OF LEXINGTON

ANNUAL DISCLOSURE OF TAX INCREMENT DISTRICTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022

www.presspubs.com

Additional information regarding each district may be obtained from: Bill Petracek, City Administrator 9180 Lexington Avenue Lexington, MN 55014 (763) 784-2792; bill.petracek@cityoflexingtonmn.org

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on August 8, 2023.

RICE CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING MINOR AMENDMENT TO THE 2020 WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN

TAKE NOTICE that at its regular board meeting on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. in the Shoreview City Council Chambers, 4600 North Victoria Street, Shoreview, Minnesota, the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) Board of Managers will receive public comment on a minor amendment to the District’s 2020 Watershed Management Plan, intended to clarify existing capital improvement projects within the plan. Public participa-

PLEASE

tion using interactive technology will also be possible using Zoom. Please contact Theresa Stasica at tstasica@ricecreek.org for instructions. In addition, by a declaration under Minnesota Open Meeting Law Section 13D.021, all meetings of the RCWD Board of Managers are in person and public while recognizing that a Manager may, based on advice from a health care professional, have a legitimate reason for not attending a meeting in a public place in person, such as COVID-19 exposure or infection, and in such circumstances may participate in the meeting remotely. The proposed minor plan amendment may be viewed on the District’s website under the Reports and Plans page: www.ricecreek.org or at the District office at the address below. Comments/questions can be directed to Matt Kocian at mkocian@ricecreek. org, 763-398-3076, or 4325 Pheasant Ridge Drive NE, Suite 611, Blaine, MN 55449. Published one time in the Quad Community Press on August 8, 2023.

Northern Lights

Rehbein-Manthey ends prolific career as Cougar coach

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Jackie Rehbein-Manthey was nearing 400 wins as Centennial volleyball coach and coming off a state tournament season, but decided in late spring that it was time to step down.

“I’ll miss the camaraderie with the other fall sports coaches, and their support and advice throughout the years,” said Rehbein-Manthey.  Her resignation means someone else will coach two daughters who will soon be on varsity. “I won’t be far from the gym,” she said, “and look forward to supporting the program as a parent.”

With her full-time job at 3M, things were getting a bit hectic during volleyball seasons.

“Lots going on with work, and my focus needs to be there,” she explained. “It wouldn’t be fair to the volleyball program for me not to be able to dedicate the team and energy it deserves. There are lots of hours put into coaching that go beyond the hours spent in the gym.”

The new coach is Nicole Christensen. (See below).

Rehbein-Manthey coached the Cougars for 20 seasons. She posted

Christensen is new Cougar volleyball coach

Nicole Christensen, a volleyball coach for 17 of her 34 years at levels from U12 through college, will take over the Centennial Cougar team this fall.

a 380-185-1 record and took three teams to state, in 2009, 2010 and 2022. Last fall, her Cougars won Section 7AAA, lost in the first round at state, then won twice to take home the fifthplace trophy, giving the coach what turned out to be a great season to quit on.

Asked about highlights, RehbeinManthey cited the outstanding support from the district, community and families through the years. She added that it was always stimulating to compete in “one of the toughest conferences in the state (Northwest Suburban)”, which helped them finish

the season so strongly last year. Asked if there’s anything she won’t miss, she said, “The part I won’t miss is going through tryouts and possibly having to cut players from the team. That was always the hardest thing to do every year. I think any coach will tell you the same thing.”

Rehbein-Manthey, who played volleyball and basketball two years each at Mankato State, was 28, newly married, and eager to lead a program when then-activities director Bruce Hegseth gave her a shot. “I am so thankful that he gave me the opportunity,” she said.

Her daughters Chase and McKenna are going into ninth and tenth grade, respectively. “They were raised in the gym,” she mused. “It has been an adjustment for me to drop them off at practice, and not walk in to join them.”

It was late in the school year that she informed Matt St. Martin, activities director, about her decision. “Not ideal,” she said, “but I’m so excited they were able to find a strong coach in Nicole. She will be able to bring in new ideas and energy to the program.”

Kids get taste of Cougar football

CONTRIBUTED

“I’m very excited to be joining this successful program,and to continue to build on the already strong foundation,” Christensen said. “My heart lies in youth development, and I can’t wait to share my passion with this community.”

Christensen was hired by Activities Director Matt St. Martin to replace the retiring Jackie Rehbein-Manthey.

“Nicole Christensen brings a wealth of coaching experience with her, but more importantly, her coaching philosophy aligns with the Centennial School District vision and mission,” said St. Martin.

At her native Forest Lake High School, Christensen was the “B” squad coach and later varsity assistant over a nine-year period. She also coached 12U through 18U in their volleyball association and served as the group’s coaching advisor. The last two years, she was an assistant at Anoka-Ramsey Community College. She started her coaching career in club volleyball at Norwood Young America while in college.

At Forest Lake, Christensen set the career record for digs during three years as the Ranger volleyball team’s libero. She was also an Alpine Skier and a golfer, in which she qualified for the state tournament. At Gustavus Adolphus, she was a member of the golf team.

Dozens of future Centennial Cougars got a preview of the varsity football experience and a chance to hone their skills at the annual Cougar Youth Football Camp held Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 1-2. The camp was directed by Jeramie Burgoon, a member of the Centennial football staff, with drills supervised by juniors and seniors on the 2023 team. ”The youth camp is well attended,” said head coach Mike Diggins, “and a fun time for the younger kids to be instructed by the high school players.”

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Jackie Rehbein-Manthey, at far right, and her team were all smiles after winning the fifthplace match against Chaska at state in 2022, which was her 380th and final win.

Nicole Christensen

PHOTOS BY JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED

A youngster was hoisted by Cougar players Joe Streff and Marcus Whiting as they and his teammates celebrated him catching a ball machine-launched high in the air. The side with the most catches won.

A youngster makes a tumbling catch at the camp, cheered by Cougar players in the background.

Kids waited their turn to pass the football with Maverick Harper looking on.