71% of women in domestic violence shelters report their abuser threatened, injured or killed a pet.
Nearly half of victims choose to stay in abusive situations rather than leave their pets behind.
Nearly 1 in 4 victims return to an abusive situation due to fear over their pet’s safety
Nearly 48% of victims delayed leaving an abusive relationship for fear of pet safety.
52% of survivors in shelters leave their pets with their abusers.
Source: Red Rover
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The City Council has decided to postpone the approval of a professional services agreement with Citygate Associates for a study of the Public Safety Department.
The council was set to approve a contract with Citygate Associates to evaluate the Public Safety Department, both police and fire, but Mayor Rob Rafferty suggested the council take a bit more time on the matter. He proposed the council postpone the action item until September so that the matter could be discussed further at a council work session.
“I want to make sure we are addressing our needs for both police and fire,” Rafferty said. “I want to make sure that going forward we are all on the same page for this discussion. I think the extra effort to do so gives us a clear-cut understanding of exactly what we are approving.”
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Press Publications shared survivor Candice Amundson’s story about domestic violence a couple of years ago, but there is one story that has yet to be told — the story of an English bulldog named Linus.
“We always talk about the humans and the people, but we never really think about the animals,” Amundson said.
Amundson adopted Linus in 2016 as a puppy at the time her son was around 3 1/2 years old. “He did everything with us. We took him everywhere,” she recalled. Amundson wasn’t the only
one who spent eight years of her life living in constant fear. The incident that ended it all was when her then-partner not only tried to strangle her, but also their child. (See “Domestic Violence Awareness Month: First step is talking about it,” Oct. 12, 2022.)
SEE LINUS’ PET HAVEN, PAGE 2
The council directed staff back in April to seek proposals from consultants to perform a public safety study. In May, two proposals were received, but only one included both police and fire. The city created a selection committee (Council members Tony Cavegn and Michael Ruhland, City Administrator Sarah Cotton and Public Safety Director John Swenson) to review a second round of proposals; seven of them were reviewed by the committee in June.
Last month, the council chose to follow the committee’s recommendation and choose Citygate Associates as its consultant for a not-to-exceed amount of $150,000.
Ooftah, or should we say Woofda? Centerville resident Taylor Fairchild has launched her own pet accessory company, Woofda & Co. She started making dog collars during the height of the pandemic in 2020 but decided to share her creations with more than just family and friends after she received a positive reaction to her creations.
Press Publications recently
interviewed Fairchild to learn more about Woofda & Co.
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A. I was born here in Minnesota and currently work as an infant teacher while pursuing a degree in photography. I am also the owner of WoofDa & Co.
Driven by a lifelong passion for pets, I aspire to become a
wildlife or pet photographer upon graduation. Outside of work and studies, I enjoy houseplants, rock collecting, camping, caring for my axolotls and dog, and transforming a school bus into a camper! I am particularly excited to marry my best friend this October.
SEE WOOFDA & CO, PAGE 5
“(Linus) was there with us when it happened and didn’t stand by my side and protect me; he ran away and he was hiding under a table,” Amundson recalled. Linus, who had experienced abuse himself before, was afraid. After that incident, if there was ever a loud noise, Linus would run and hide in the bathroom or under a table. “I saw firsthand how domestic violence can affect an animal,” she said. “Being in an environment where it’s unknown and people are yelling or people are hurting people, it’s really scary for them.”
Amundson never sought shelter because she didn’t want to leave Linus behind.
“There was a lot of retaliation, and I think power and control around the dog,” she explained. “I believe that if we would have left and left the dog behind, something could have happened to him … I knew that it wasn’t going to be an option to leave him.”
One day, Amundson went to Alexandra House’s campus in Blaine and had a vision of making the shelter pet-friendly. She did some research and stumbled across the Greater Good Charities on RedRover. She took a six-hour course on how to make the domestic violence shelter pet-friendly and then pitched the idea to Alexandra House.
Tina Bronson, director of mission advancement at Alexandra House, said it has long been a dream of the organization to do something like that, but it has been difficult to secure the necessary funding.
“We have been talking about this for years. We were trying to do a capital campaign to do this back in 2017 when we lost our United Way funding,” she recalled. Ultimately, Alexandra House will need approximately $15 million to renovate and expand its Blaine campus to create a shelter with individual residential units.
Alexandra House continues to look for funding and grant options, but it has successfully secured nearly $100,000 and will break ground on Linus’ Pet Haven on Sept. 9.
Linus’ Pet Haven will be a full-service pet refuge that can house six pets (cats, dogs, rabbits, hamsters, etc.) while the family seeks housing for themselves or other temporary care for pets. In partnership with the Animal Humane Society, Linus’ Pet Haven will provide co-sheltering, routine veterinary care, enrichment areas for families and pets to interact, and outdoor runs for exercise and relief. Alexandra House is seeking additional rescue and low-cost veterinary partners to support the initiative.
Bronson says Alexandra House typically gets about three to five requests each month from survivors who are looking to leave their abusers but have a pet they would like to bring with them. “We have had to tell them that we are not set up for that … and we never hear from them again, and that is devastating,” she said. “We had one survivor who left to go grocery shopping and was planning to leave but hadn’t said anything, and while she was gone the abuser killed their dog.”
Linus’ Pet Haven will be the first of its kind in the Twin Cities. There are many options when it comes to housing pets, but most of those require people to be separated from their pets. “They are part of the family,” Bronson explained. “We know that having animals with us is healing and therapeutic … they can heal better together than alone.”
Linus’ Pet Shelter is anticipated to open in January 2025. For more information, visit www. alexandrahouse.org.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
When: 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9
Where: Alexandra House’s Blaine Campus, located at 10065 Third Street NE, Blaine Details: Community members are invited to join Alexandra House in marking a significant milestone and show their support for a pet-safe shelter for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Attendees are encouraged to bring new toys, blankets, dog beds, collars, leashes or other supplies. Contact: For more information, or to donate, visit www.alexandrahouse.org.
SEPTEMBER 3,
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12: 45 p.m. Thursday Sept. 5, and every 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday of each month.
Where: Rice Lake Centre in Hugo, 6900 137th St. N. Details: Games begin promptly at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee will be served. All senior citizens from the area are invited. Join us and bring a friend.
Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com
LEXINGTON FARMERS MARKET
When: 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lexington Municipal Liquor Store, front parking lot, 9271 Lake Drive
Details: Vendors selling veggies and fruit, baked goods, Maple syrup, tea and homemade gifts. Contact: Karen Gregory 612-272-3386 or kgregory244@gmail.com
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: WEASELS
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Free naturalist-led program for those 50+. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment provided.
Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
LAKE LINKS ASSOCIATION BIKE RIDE AROUND THE LAKE
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: Saputo Station rest stop, Bellaire Beach
Details: Family-friendly, guided 10-mile bike tour around White Bear Lake with groups departing every 10 minutes. Contact: lakelinks.net
TASTE OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
When: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road.
Details: Sample food and beverages from local establishments while supporting White Bear Rotary programs. Also music, silent auction, games and more. Information online Contact: tasteofwhitebearlake.com
WASHINGTON COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
When: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: Lake Elmo Park Reserve
Details: Bring lawn chairs or blankets for a family-
friendly afternoon of live bluegrass music. Food trucks and face painting. No animals or alcoho. Contact: washingtoncountymn.gov/1559/BluegrassFestival
FRIDAY NIGHT TRIVIA
When: 6-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6
Where: St. Jude of the Lake Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave.
Details: Teams compete for prizes. Pizza, beer, wine and other treats for sale. Register in advance or show up.
Contact: stjudeofthelake.org/cornfest-2024/
40TH ANNUAL CORNFEST
When: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7
Where: St. Jude of the Lake Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave.
Details: Community event with food, live music, bingo, raffles, bake sale, inflatables, contests, and corn.
Contact: 651-426-3245 or stjudeofthelake.org/ cornfest-2024/
MUSIC ON THE LAWN CONCERT SERIES
When: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8
Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St.
When: Saturday Nature Play: Fall in the Prairie Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: The prairie is bright, beautiful and full of life in the fall. We’ll explore the tall grass in search of the colorful flowers and jumpy, crawly, skittery creatures that call it home.
Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
Find the church that fits your needs
Celebrate Mass with us!
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 Join Us for Mass Mass Times: Saturday at 5:00 pm
we’re in this together.”
We welcome you to worship with us Virtually and in Person Sunday 9:30 am Fellowship & refreshments following the service 7330 Lake Drive | 651-784-7667 admin@linolakescommunitychurch.com & directions (1 mile south of Target on Lake
Details: Worship ad live music featuring Salsa del Sol and Shai Hayo. All are welcome. Bring blanket or lawn chair.
Contact: 651-429-9026
UNDERSTANDING TEENS AND MENTAL HEALTH
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10
Where: Living Waters Lutheran Church, 865 Birch Street, Lino Lakes
Details: Join in on an educational opportunity to learn about typical teen development, potential concerns/risks and how to navigate mental health struggles. Attendees should RSVP.
Contact: https://tinyurl.com/2vkh3mmj
September 4-8 vs. Iowa Cubs September 10-15 vs. Columbus Clippers
651-644-6659 saintsbaseball.com
One of my coping mechanisms when it feels like summer is slipping away too quickly is to add the month of September as a buffer to help moderate any sinking feelings of despair. We no longer have the luxury of the extended early evening light, but for the most part, the weather is equally if not nicer than during the peak of summer. There are no guarantees, but over the years, I’d have to say that the positive experiences traveling and camping out during slower and off-peak times of the year far outweigh any negative ones. By rolling the dice on a trip earlier or later in the season, you can be rewarded with lighter traffic, less crowding and fewer insects, including mosquitoes.
I have stellar early season memories of camping with friends up in Voyageurs National Park not long after the winter ice melted on Namakan and Kabetogama lakes. The only insects we had to deal with on one paddling excursion were the fireflies lighting up the woods behind our island campsite, creating an idyllic scene resembling a theatrical set. A late season October trip out to Yellowstone National Park, many years ago, included snow but also exceptional wildlife sightings that would not be possible any other time of the year. More than a decade before mobile phones came into use; while using a phone booth near a parking lot at Mammoth Hot Springs to place a call to my parents, I was suddenly surrounded by a herd of more than a dozen elk. It was mating season, and the males were jousting with each other and making throaty, high-pitched bugling sounds. My parents expressed their surprise and disbelief as I described the chaotic situation taking place outside the phone booth that enclosed me. Thankfully, the herd had other priorities and moved on just as suddenly as they had appeared. Before or since, I’ve never witnessed the behavior of a group of wild animals in such close proximity. The timing of an off-season December hike in the Grand Canyon was like walking through different climate zones. The heat can be deadly in the summer months, but the early winter temperature at the top of the canyon got down to zero at night while the temperature at Phantom Ranch, a historic oasis at the bottom of the canyon, was a moderate 50 degrees. During the hike out, the air at the bottom of the canyon rushed upward through the landscape and created a strong, warm breeze at sunset.
At a relatively early age I was introduced to the concept of leaving a campsite in the same, if not better, condition than how you found it. The National Park Service provides more specifics to this overall concept with the Leave No Trace Seven Principles which include: plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife and be considerate of other visitors.
According to the National Park Service website, these principles were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, and built on previous studies by the US Forest Service, National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management. The principles are based on and informed by scientific research in the fields of recreation ecology and the ways humans value, use and depend on the natural environment. Some of these principles can be referenced and applied in our daily lives. Specifically, I believe some of the friction and frustration that sometimes occurs on and around shared public spaces like parks, lakes and the growing number of multi-use trails in the area could be lessened by knowledge of the rules and simply practicing awareness of our surroundings and consideration for others.
Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238
s we wrap up summer and head into fall, it is imperative that we also reiterate to the teens and children in our lives the importance of safe activities. One activity that continues to be popular with teens is a practice called Nerf Wars. Nerf Wars involves players forming teams and then locating opposing players, before shooting them with Nerf guns. While on the surface this game is harmless, careless decisions have historically been made by participants which have resulted in property damage, injury and even death to people
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in Minnesota. Reports to law enforcement have included dangerous driving that impedes traffic, excessive speeds and failing to wear seatbelts to allow the participants to exit the vehicles quicker. These types of behaviors have resulted in both players and innocent individuals dying due to tragic and avoidable driving decisions. Additionally, some have chosen to escalate the game by using weapons such as airsoft or paintball guns instead of Nerf guns. These can obviously cause a greater amount of injury and damage to property and are not appropriate to be used in this type of scenario.
If you or an individual in your home plays or is likely to participate in a game like this, advise them regularly that they should only play in safe public areas in a respectful manner. Safe driving
is always more important than the game and the driver and passengers should not be playing while in the vehicle. Nerf guns or other similar toys should be brightly colored and NEVER use replica guns in public places. Finally, if encountered by law enforcement while in possession of a Nerf gun (or similar), put it down immediately and follow the instructions being given. Spending time outside with others is one of the best parts of this time of year. Using good judgement when engaging in any activity is of paramount importance to protect yourself and others. Educating younger individuals that sudden poor decisions can have long lasting consequences will help them have a school year to positively remember!
Brad Wise is the Anoka County Sheriff.
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Centerville’s Main Street Market this year. The business offers a variety of pet products including collars,
• Michael Bauman and Austin Kolden, of Renewal by Anderson, may show up at your door throughout the next six months after the company received a solicitor’s permit from the city.
• $742,000 will be added to the tax rolls now that tax increment financing (TIF) District 1-12 has been decertified. City Finance Director Hannah Lynch explained that TIF is a method of stimulating economic development in a targeted geographic area. TIF uses the initial property taxes that are paid as a result of the new development to pay for the development infrastructure costs.
TIF District 1-12 was created for the Clearwater Creek Business Park Project in March 2017 and is required to be decertified by Dec. 31, 2026. Lynch said the TIF note issued to Distribution Alternatives in November 2017 has been paid in full in the amount of $1.2 million. Now that all obligations of the district are satisfied, the district will be decertified to allow taxes generated by the affected parcels to be distributed to all local taxing jurisdictions.
• The Public Services Department has a new custodial worker for government buildings. Brie Scott will make $20 an hour, the starting rate for the part-time position.
• Cole Huebner is the city’s newest part-time firefighter. Huebner has completed Firefighter 1 and 2 as well as hazardous materials training and certification.
On any given day, you can find State Rep. Elliott Engen out in the neighborhoods of Lino Lakes, Centerville and Circle Pines personally meeting the people of District 36A. He remembers them, and they remember him. The exchanges of greetings are hearty. He listens and takes notes.
On the other hand, on any given day, you can find surrogates for his DFL opponent, not the candidate herself, at the doors in the district. On some days, Engen runs into six to eight of his DFL “colleagues” knocking doors for his opponent, handing out her materials.
Quite a contrast, one in-person, the other remote. To date, Rep. Engen has been at 12,000 District 36A doors. Since elected two years ago, he’s introduced dozens of forward-thinking bills at the Legislature on issues of affordability for families, public safety and education. Many of his original, unique bills came from talking with citizens. He’s also brought numerous amendments and actively participated in committee and floor debates, something he’s very good at. He’s an engaged, informed first-term legislator. Rep. Engen is at the top of the DFL’s target list of Republican legislators to defeat. They’ve got Elliott Engen in their sights and are committing major resources.
How far will the Democrats go? We know they are ruthless. They want all the power, all the control. Over the next weeks watch their brutish and deceptive media attacks on this promising Republican legislator. Any candidate would wither under the assaults. Many Republican votes will be suppressed. But that’s how the Democrats play.
Andrew Cravero Lino Lakes
Q. When did you launch WoofDa & Co., and how did it come about?
A. I officially launched WoofDa & Co. here in Centerville in October 2023, although I designed and created my first collar during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The inspiration for WoofDa & Co. came from my dog, Kota. I was frustrated by the high cost of bland, solid-colored collars and, fueled by my love for sewing, I decided to make my own. The positive response from my family encouraged me to share my creations with the world!
Q. What sort of things do you make? Do you make products for both dogs and cats?
A. At WoofDa & Co., we offer a variety of pet products, including collars, leashes, bandanas, bows and bow ties. We are also in the process of developing waste bag holders for leashes and preparing to launch a new line of dog treats. We do have cat collars that have also been well received.
His starting wage will be at $24.78 per hour, the starting step of six for part-time firefighters.
Scott Schmidt and Jake Crooks will also join the fire department as paid-on-call firefighters. Schmidt will be based out of Station 2 and Crooks will be based out of Station 1. Both will be paid $21.79 per hour, the starting wage for paid-on-call firefighters.
• The City Council has decided to postpone the approval of a professional services agreement with Citygate Associates for a study of the Public Safety Department. (See full story in this week’s paper.)
• The Public Safety Department will receive a grant from the 2024 Intensive and Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training (ICPOET) program. Deputy Director Kyle Leibel explained that there is currently a shortage of applicants for vacant police officer positions throughout the state of Minnesota. Through the legislative process, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Justice Program created the grant program to enable agencies to hire individuals that have a two- or four-year degree in any field and want to make a career transition to be a police officer.
The department last received a grant from the program in April, but additional grant funds are available for the remainder of the year. The city’s department has been awarded an additional $50,000, making the total grant award $100,000.
• Fifteen Motorola XTS 2500 portable radios will be donated to the Harris Fire Department. All Anoka County law enforcement and fire departments updated public safety radios in 2017 to the Motorola APX 6000i portable radios. Since the replacement, the Public Safety Department has moved 21 XTS 2500 radios to storage.
“In the interest of putting the portable radios to use, staff has identified a need for six of the radios within the Lino Lakes Public Works Department. The remaining 15 have no use within other city of Lino Lakes departments,” Leibel said.
Q. Tell us about the name and how you came up with it.
A. The name WoofDa & Co. is a nod to the Minnesotan phrase “Uff Da!” I wanted to share my Minnesota pride through my business.
Q. What makes your items unique from other products on the market?
A. Our products are distinguished by their unique designs, durability and customizable hardware options. We are currently testing a selection of collars with custom embroidered names.
Q. Where can people find your items? Do you sell in any local markets or shops or online?
A. I actively participate in local markets, which provide a wonderful opportunity to meet many wonderful people and their pets. While we currently maintain a Facebook page, a website is in development and is soon to be launched.
Compiled by Shannon Granholm
Public Safety Director John
thanks residents
and Karen Bye for 20 years of volunteer work with the public safety department. Look for a story about the Bye’s in an upcoming edition of the Quad Community Press.
• The city has signed off on changes to the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) and Vadnais Lake Area Management Organization (VLAWMO) boundary. The two watershed districts went through a hydrologic boundary review in 2022 and identified boundary discrepancies in need of modification.
City staff subsequently identified four parcels in the Nadeau Acres development that will be removed from the list. Grading information received from the development identified that these parcels remain within the RCWD boundary. A total of 34 parcels will be affected by the boundary adjustments. Eight parcels will switch from RCWD to VLAWMO and 26 of the parcels will revert to RCWD jurisdiction.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3. The next regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Pursuant to MN Statue 471.6161, notice is hereby given that Centennial ISD #12 requests proposals for Group Life and Long Term Disability Insurance. Specifications will be available from the District’s agent of record, National Insurance Services, at 300 North Corporate Drive, Suite 300, Brookfield WI, 53045, phone 800-627-3660.
Proposals are due no later than Monday, September 16th, 2024, to 300 North Corporate Drive, Suite 300, Brookfield WI, 53045 and as specified in the RFP.
Centennial ISD #12 reserves the right to reject proposals, waive formalities, and to select the proposal that best meets the Centennial ISD #12’s needs.
Criteria for the evaluation of proposals will be provided when the specifications are requested. Published two times in the Quad Community Press on August 27 and September 3, 2024.
CITY OF CIRCLE PINES
ORDINANCE NO. 168 (ORDINANCE SUMMARY)
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY OF CIRCLE PINES CITY CODE CHAPTER 10, SECTION 1000, BY ADDING SECTION 1000.06 SLOW NO-WAKE ZONE
The above-referenced Ordinance amends Circle Pines City Code Chapter 10 by adding Section 1000.06 Prohibits the operation of motorized watercraft at speeds exceeding 5 miles per hour within the designated area on Golden Lake. The Centennial Lakes Police Department will primarily enforce this regulation, with additional enforcement by other licensed officers, including conservation officers. Violations of this ordinance will be considered a misdemeanor. The ordinance exempts authorized emergency, resource management, and enforcement personnel. This summary is adopted pursuant
to Minn. Stat. §412.191, Subd. 4.
NOTICE: The full text of this ordinance is available for inspection and copying at the Circle Pines City Hall located at 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota. It is also available on the city’s website.
Dated: August 14, 2024
Patrick Antonen, City Administrator Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 3,
“I believe that they do just what we were asking for in the (request for
both police and fire services,” Swenson said. “It does meet all of our standards that we put forward in our RFP, to bring back a quality report for the council to review and if it so wishes to act upon.” Cavegn said he was comfortable with the way the agreement was written, but that he would be okay with postponing the item for further discussion. Council Member Christopher Lyden asked Swenson whether he had any reservations about moving forward with the agreement, and Swenson said no. Ultimately, the council voted 4-1 (Lyden voted no) to postpone the discussion to a special work session on Sept. 9 following the council’s regular meeting. Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
The Lino Lakes Police Department report the following incidents:
• A community service officer responded to a phone call Aug. 20 related to a drone flying in a local park in the 500 block of Aqua Lane. The area was checked, and the parties were gone on arrival.
• An officer responded to a report of four juvenile jumping off of a bridge into water Aug. 20 in the 6600 block of Hodgson Road. The officer met with the juveniles and talked with them about their activity.
• An officer took a report Aug. 20 of disorderly juveniles in the 7800 block of Gotland Lane. The officer documented the incident and found no crime had occurred.
• Officers responded to a school Aug. 20 in the 300 block of Elm Street to trespass an individual on behalf of school officials. The individual left prior to arrival.
• An officer received a report of an online scam Aug. 20. Officers advised the victim of options.
• An officer received a report of online fraud Aug. 20. The officer advised the victim of ways to protect themselves from fraud.
• A community service officer and a police officer assisted a member of the public Aug. 20 in the 7700 block of Main Street who was locked inside a secured gate on the property of a business. The officer unlocked the gate and let the individual out.
• An officer handled a call concerning a dog bite Aug. 21 in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The investigation is ongoing.
• A community service officer was dispatched for an animal complaint Aug. 21 in the 600 block of
County seeks feedback for Safe Streets for All survey
Anoka County is soliciting feedback on its Safe Streets for All plan. The county is developing a comprehensive plan to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes for all road users on county-owned roadways.
The safety action plan will focus on roadway safety challenges, such as reckless and distracted driving and speeding, and identify projects and policies to proactively address
Lois Lane. The homeowner was contacted about the issue and it was resolved.
• An officer received a suspicious activity report Aug. 21 regarding a juvenile in the 6700 block of Partridge Place. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers received a call of a possible impaired driver Aug. 21 in the 8000 block of Lake Drive. An officer located the vehicle and subsequently arrested the adult male driver for driving while impaired.
• While on patrol Aug. 21 near the intersection of Lake Drive and Second Avenue, officers observed illegal off-road dirt bikes operating on city streets. Officers attempted to stop the dirt bikes; however, the drivers fled. Officers eventually located and arrested two juvenile males for fleeing and reckless driving.
• An officer located a vehicle at a closed business while on patrol Aug. 22 in the 7000 block of 21st Avenue South. After an investigation, the driver was arrested on a warrant and booked at jail.
• Officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle Aug. 22 in a residential area in the 700 block of Vicky Lane. An officer founder the driver to be intoxicated and arrested them for DWI.
• An officer responded to an identity theft report Aug. 23. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers responded to a welfare check Aug. 23 of a male in a vehicle in the 8000 block of Lake Drive. The officers found the male to be impaired. He was arrested for several offenses.
• An officer stopped a vehicle for unsafe driving Aug. 24 in the 800 block of Birch Street. The driver was found to be impaired and was arrested and booked at jail for DWI.
• An officer took a report of a runaway juvenile Aug. 23. The officer notified a neighboring county
these challenges based on best practices. For more information, or to take the survey, visit https://alliant.mysocialpinpoint. com/anoka-ss4a/anoka-ss4amap#.
Sheriff’s Office enters partnership to reduce violent crimes
The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office will enter into a partnership with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to establish a taskforce that will seek to combat violent crimes
LWV hosts event on decline of local news
White Bear Lake League of Women Voters (LWV) will host “Decline of Local News and Its Impact on Democracy” from 6:15 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, at the social hall in the Maplewood Ramsey County Library.
The LWV of the United States and of Minnesota have both adopted a new concurrence on local news using a three-year study by LWV of Washington State. Dee Anne Finken and Lyn Whitley, who were
where the juvenile was suspected to be. They were located and transported home.
• An officer responded to a report of a missing person Aug. 25. The missing adult female was located in the garage by her husband while officers checked the area. There were no other problems.
• An officer responded to a motor vehicle theft report Aug. 25 in the 6200 block of Otter Lake Road. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers responded to a personal injury accident Aug. 26 involving two vehicles in the 2000 block of Ash Street. One party was transported to a hospital by ambulance.
Editors note: The Quad Community Press did not receive reports from the Centennial Lakes Police Department this week.
throughout the state.
The task force, known as the Violent Crime Reduction Unit (VCRU), will aid in the prevention, investigation and prosecution of violent crimes to include murder and assaults, the trafficking of illicit drugs and firearms, carjacking and other violent crimes. The VCRU position received five years of funding during the previous legislative session. One detective from the sheriff’s criminal investigation division will be assigned to the VCRU.
involved with the study, will present highlights. Charlie Weaver, co-publisher and executive director of the Minnesota Daily at the University of Minnesota, will provide some hands-on strategies on reversing the decline of local news. The last speaker will be from Press Forward Minnesota, a statewide movement to recenter local journalism as a force for community cohesion, civic participation and government accountability, with a focus on racial equity.
For more information, visit https://lwv-wbla.org.
state parks in Minn esota. Apply onlin e at greenviewmn.com or call 651.63 9.1913
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impa ired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844.220.9501 today!
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OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75
World Around Us Child Care Center
The job requirements for the teacher/teacher assistant position
cation skills,
and knowledge to
The job requirements for the cook position would be to prepare fun family style pre-cooked breakfast, lunch, and p.m. snack, ordering food, in charge of the monthly menu, washing dishes, and ensuring the kitchen is always health department ready. Having your ServSafe Certification is a plus.
Chamber hosts ribbon cutting for State Farm
Jen Korus of State Farm has relocated her business from Woodbury to Lino Lakes. The Quad Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon cutting to welcome her to the community. Her new location is at 6776 Lake Drive, Suite 240, in Lino Lakes. For more information about Jen Korus, visit https://www.jenkorus.com or call 651739-9676.
BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Skylar Dahl, a 2021 Centennial graduate, is competing this week in the Paris 2024 Paralympics as a rower.
A member of the renowned University of Virginia rowing team, heading into her senior year, Dahl earned a place on Team USA’s PR3 mixed four with coxswain. She qualified at a selection camp in Sarasota, Florida, in January. The Circle Pines native is joined by coxswain Emelie Eldracher, Ben Washburne, Alex Flynn and Gemma Wollenschlaeger on the USA crew.
Dahl, Eldracher, Washburne and Flynn were all part of the PR3 mixed four that won silver in the world meet in Servia last year.
Born with two club feet, meaning that the bones are out of the standard position, Dahl’s early childhood was filled with surgeries, casts, braces, physical therapy and specialized footwear. She walks normally, but running is painful, as she found out when she tried to play soccer and basketball.
Known for her persistence and never-give-up attitude, she found her niche in rowing during high school, starting with a club team in 2018. The rowing competition began Saturday.
SWIMMING
CROSS COUNTRY
Results first 2 weeks
Cougar girls 4th of 5 teams at Twin Ports meet, Duluth East
Cougar boys 5th of 5 teams at Twin Ports meet
Cougar girls 2nd of 4 teams at Crimson Twilight meet, Elm Creek
Cougar boys 3rd of 6 teams at Crimson Twilight
• Coming up
Thursday: Anoka Invitational, 3:30 p.m.
FOOTBALL
• Results this week
Cougars vs Coon Rapids*
• Coming up
Friday: Cougars at Blaine, 7 p.m.
SOCCER, BOYS
• Results first 2 weeks
Cougars 1, White Bear Lake 1 Park Center 2, Cougars 1
Coming up
Tuesday: Champlin Park, 7 p.m.
Thursday: at Maple Grove, 5 p.m.
SOCCER, GIRLS
Results first 2 weeks
White Bear Lake 1, Cougars 0 Stillwater 3, Cougars 0
• Coming up
Tuesday: Champlin Park, 5 p.m.
Thursday: at Maple Grove, 7 p.m.
Results first 2 weeks
Conference relays: Cougars had 2 second-places and 1 third place in a six-team meet Cougars at Maple Grove*
Coming up
Thursday: Blaine, 6 pm.
TENNIS
• Results first 2 weeks
Centennial 4, Forest Lake 3
Mahtomedi 7, Cougars 0 Elk River 5, Cougars 0
• Coming up
Wednesday: at White Bear Lake, 4 p.m.
Thursday: Andover, 4 p.m.
Saturday: at Roseville (also Mounds Park, South St. Paul), 8:30 a.m.
VOLLEYBALL
Results first 2 weeks
Cougars def. Cambridge-Isanti 25-15, 25-16, 25-20
Waconia def. Cougars 25-14, 25-21, 25-23
Cougars def Mounds View 25-12, 21-25, 25-16, 25-15
Cougars vs. Duluth East*
• Coming up Wednesday: Maple Grove, 7 p.m.
*Due to an early deadline this week, Thursday events are not included in this edition. They will be in next week’s edition. See presspubs.com for online reports.
Centennial volleyball beat Cambridge-Isanti 3-0 on Aug. 11, lost to Waconia 3-0 on Aug. 24, and clipped Mounds View 3-1 last Tuesday, to start the season. In the 25-15, 25-16, 25-20 win over C-I, Aubrie Wirkkala played a nice all-around game (see athlete of the week) while Elena Hoecke logged 12 kills and two aces, Emma Pederson nine kills and three aces, and Chase Manthey 22 assists and three kills. The Cougars beat Mounds View 25-16, 21-25, 25-16, 25-15. No details were available at press time.
Bruce Strand
White Bear Lake and Centennial jousted to a 1-1 tie in the opener at White Bear Lake Aug. 22. Sebastian Fernandez scored for the Cougars on a penalty kick in the 71st minute. The Cougars lost their conference opener to Park Center 2-1 on Wednesday.
The Cougars are still looking for their first goal after facing two of the state’s best teams to open the season. Ranked 10th in the first poll, the Cougars lost to No. 3 White Bear Lake 1-0 on Aug. 22 and to No. 2 Stillwater 3-0 this past Tuesday.
Bruce Strand
Centennial Volleyball
Aubrie Wirkkala, sophomore outside hitter, sparked the Cougar volleyball team’s opening win over Cambridge-Isanti last week as she rattled off nine kills, nine digs and five aces while compiling a solid 2.25 serve receive rating. The 5-foot8 athlete is coming off a promising freshman season when she contributed 89 kills, 120 digs and 11 aces.
Winter
If you are interested in learning more about
or adopting her, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org.