Quad Community Press

Council looks at options for Tart Lake Road

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Adding center island medians, sidewalks, raised intersections and crosswalks are all options that the Lino Lakes City Council could consider to improve Tart Lake Road.

City Engineer Diane Hankee explained that over the years, the city’s Traffic Safety Committee, which is comprised of engineering, public works, planning and public safety representatives, has received numerous complaints regarding traffic, speed and pedestrian safety. The residential street connects Otter Lake Road with 24th Avenue/ Elmcrest Avenue on the city’s border with Hugo.

4 Minnesotans benefit from ‘robot legs’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

On Sept. 16, four Minnesota children will put on their “robot legs,” all in an effort to build awareness around accessibility and inclusion while raising money so that another child can have the experience of walking on their own.

The Kourageous Karter Foundation will host the second

annual fun run/walk, but this year closer to home in Hugo rather than in St. Paul.

“It just made sense to do it at Lions Park. It is the one playground that we go to frequently, we were involved in the design of the project, and it represents access and inclusion, which is the main point of the foundation that we created,” said Kourageous Karter founder Tiffany Goodchild. “We want

to showcase the (inclusive) playground … it is one of the best ones.”

Goodchild, a Hugo resident, launched a nonprofit, the Kourageous Karter Foundation, back in 2020 right before the pandemic hit. The organization’s mission is to raise money for causes that directly affect families like hers as well as to

SEE ROBOT LEGS, PAGE 8

Public Safety Captain William Owens said every now and then the Public Safety Department receives complaints about cutthroughs, vehicle noise or commercial vehicles driving through the area.

Residents who live in the area have requested sidewalks, road closures at 24th Avenue, intermittent trail crossings and additional stop signs.

The city performed multiple speed studies in 2013, 2015 and, most recently, 2022. Along with that, the Public Safety Department has also provided extra enforcement in the area. The city has tried installing a driver (speed) feedback sign for eastbound traffic and added some crosswalks to help pedestrians access the neighborhood park.

Tart Lake Road, a 32-foot-wide roadway, can accommodate up to 2,500 vehicles per day.

SEE TART LAKE ROAD, PAGE 9

Centennial Theatre continues to expand programs

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Centennial Theatre’s participation numbers continue to rise at both the middle school and high school levels. In an effort to create as many opportunities for students of all abilities, the theater will launch some new programs this year.

Theater Director Eric Webster explained that since he took over management of the high school theater program four year ago, the

program has averaged more than 100 students per show (not including COVID-19 years). At Centennial Middle School, that number is also up to around 80 students per show.

“The goal is to create as many opportunities as possible … It’s always been the goal to expand these programs and do as much as we can,” Webster said.

Webster says that with any other sport, such as football, athletes have the opportunity to play junior varsity and continue to improve their skills

and eventually play varsity. That is not the case for theater.

“(Because that opportunity doesn’t exist), we are trying to create more opportunities for these students to perform, to work with teaching artists, to have the opportunity to not only perform but get better at it,” he said.

Centennial Youth Theatre

Historically, Centennial Community Education has brought in an outside

SEE CENTENNIAL THEATRE, PAGE 9

MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED

The Centennial Theatre program is adding new programs this year to offer students more opportunities to get up on stage.

CONTRIBUTED

The second annual Kourageous Karter Fun Run will be held Saturday, Sept. 16. Pictured (from left) are: Tiffany and Karter Goodchild, Megan and Cole Carlson and Jessie and Mitchell Starken.

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men. In 2022, the American Cancer Society estimated there would be about 268,490 new cases and about 34,500 deaths from prostate cancer. The American Urological Association suggests men ages 55 to 69, with an average risk for prostate cancer, talk to their doctor about whether prostate cancer testing is right for them. For men with a higher risk of getting prostate cancer, which includes African-American men or men with a family history of cancer, think about talking to your doctor as early as 40-54 years of age.

The prostate and seminal vesicles are part of the male reproductive system. The prostate sits below the bladder, in front of the rectum, while the seminal vesicles are two smaller glands attached to the back of the prostate. The main job of the prostate and seminal vesicles is to make fluid for semen. Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells form and grow in the prostate gland. Not all abnormal growths, also called tumors, are cancerous (malignant). Some tumors are not cancerous (benign), such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and are not life threatening. Cancerous growths, such as prostate cancer, can

spread (metastasize) to nearby organs and tissues such as the bladder or rectum, or to other parts of the body.

Prostate cancer stays “localized” when cancer cells are found only in the prostate or even a little bit beyond it, but do not move to other parts of the body. If the cancer moves to other parts of the body, it is called “advanced” prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is often grouped into four stages.

• Early-stage | Stages I & II: The tumor has not spread beyond the prostate. This is often called “early-stage” or “localized” prostate cancer.

• Locally Advanced | Stage III: Cancer has spread outside the prostate, but

only to nearby tissues. This is often called “locally advanced prostate cancer.”

• Advanced | Stage IV: Cancer has spread outside the prostate to other parts such as the lymph nodes, bladder, bones, liver or lungs. This stage is often called “advanced prostate cancer.”

What Causes Prostate Cancer?

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but researchers know many things can increase a man’s risk for the disease.

Age: As men age, their risk of getting prostate cancer goes up.

Ethnicity: African American men have a higher rate of the disease. Prostate cancer occurs less often in Asian American and Hispanic/Latino men than in non-Hispanic white men. Family History: Men who have a history of prostate cancer in their family face a higher risk of getting the disease. Having family members with breast and ovarian cancer also raises a man’s risk for prostate cancer.

• Weight: Studies link being overweight in your 50s and later to a greater risk of advanced prostate cancer. Doctors advise keeping to a healthy weight to reduce risk.

What

are the Signs of Prostate Cancer?

In its early stages, prostate cancer may have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can be urinary symptoms like those of an enlarged prostate or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). A prostate cancer screening assessment tool can be found on www.urologyhealth.org under Early-Stage Prostate Cancer Basics. This information was found on Urology Care Foundation: www. urologyhealth.org.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

CURRENT EVENTS

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 8

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: William Kent Krueger will sign copies of his new standalone novel 'The River We Remember'. Call to reserve a copy.

Contact: 651-426-0918

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

When: noon-6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13

Where: St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes

Details: Make an appointment online or by phone at 1-800-RED CROSS or redcrossblood.org.

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING

When: 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, 7401 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Learn basic strokes, boat safety, and which boat is best; see registration information online.

Contact: 763-324-3300 or co.anoka.mn.us

STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING

When: 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 13

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes, Centerville Beach, 7401 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Learn paddle boarding; no experience necessary. See registration information online. Contact: 763-324-3300 or co.anoka.mn.us

'INSPIRED BY NATURE' COMMUNITY RECEPTION

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.

Details: View the exhibit by the Great River Chapter of American Society of Botanical Artists depicting plants with scientific accuracy and aesthetic sensitivity. Meet the artists and the WBCA's new executive director. Free with registration

Contact: whitebeararts.org

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS-WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA

When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 14

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, 1520 Mahtomedi Ave.

Details: Speakers will present about the 2023 legislative accomplishments and election laws. Free to the public, RSVP encouraged.

Contact: https://bit.ly/LWVWBL2023

9TH ANNUAL NORTHSTAR WATERMEDIA NATIONAL JURIED EXHIBITION

When: Sept. 15 to Oct. 29

Where: The Phipps Center for the Arts, 109 Locust St., Hudson, WI

Details: 80 selected paintings by regional and national

watermedia artists. Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. ; Sun noon-5 p.m.

Contact: northstarwatermedia.com/exhibitions

'THE THREE MUSKETEERS'

When: Sept. 15-Oct. 1

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Lakeshore Players' presents the story of adventure, unexpected heroes, and everlasting friendship. Ticket details online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 15

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: David LaRochelle will sign copies of his two new children's books '100 Mighty Dragons All Named Broccoli' and 'See the Ghost: Three Stories About Things You Cannot See'.

Contact: 651-426-0918

WILDLIFE TRACKING AND TRAILING

When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16

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

Lakes

Details: Find and follow fresh animal tracks with a goal of seeing who made them, led by a certifies tracker. Free; registration required. Ages 16+.

Contact: 763-324-3300 or co.anoka.mn.us

FOREST BATHING

When: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16

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

Lakes

Details: Connect with nature through an immersive, meditative walk based on the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku with a forest therapy guide. See registration information online.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

11TH ANNUAL GLORIA'S SHORTEST MARATHON

When: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16

Where: Corner of Bald Eagle Ave. & 3rd St., White Bear Lake Details: Fundraiser for the White Bear Area Food

Church Directory

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

Shelf begins with a White Castle card feed followed by a one-block run/walk/roll. Register by Sept. 7; see information online.

Contact: whitebearfoodshelf.org or 651-426-3088

25TH ANNUAL NORTHWOODS HUMANE SOCIETY'S WALK WITH THE ANIMALS

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16

Where: Lent Town Hall, 33155 Hemingway Ave., Stacy

Details: A 1.5 mile walk, silent auction, bake sale, raffle, dog and cat nail trimming and microchipping for purchase, food for sale, shopping, and other activities for pets and humans.

Contact: northwoodshs.org/fundraising-events/25th-annual-walk-with-the-animals

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP DAY

When: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16

Where: Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Rd.

Details: Free community festival with live music and entertainment, vendor market, demos, Viking Automotive Car Show, kids activities, Bingo, food trucks, beer garden and fireworks show.

Contact: whitebeartownship.org

MARINE FALL FESTIVAL

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16

Where: Marine Mills Folk School, 550 Pine St., Marine on St. Croix

Details: Free community festival with artist marketplace, crafting demos by skilled artisans, children's activities, live bluegrass musioc and dancing, sheepdog herding, food and raffle.

Contact: marinemillsfolkschool.org

METRO CREATIVE | CONTRIBUTED

Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church will host a blood drive

Routines return

Schools and colleges return to the fall routine. For some students, it’s the beginning of a school or education experience. For others, it’s moving on to middle school and high school, as well as colleges and universities. For others, it may be vocational schools, home schooling or internships.

This brings about challenges for our state leaders, our local superintendents and our teachers, because after COVID many student evaluation scores dropped.

Parents are concerned when subjects like reading, math and science have lower standards.

About the Town

Attendance is a key factor which shows students may be in class only 90% of the time.

State education departments have recently released their assessments and parents and school boards need to take special notice. Everything worth doing is worth evaluating. Winning in athletics is important, but winning in the classroom is even more important.

As a parent, stay in touch with your children’s teachers. Don’t overlook conferences and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Teachers are willing to take time and make suggestions on how to overcome serious deficits. They want students to succeed. Just remember their time is valuable and they can’t always help with issues that are better addressed at home.

It’s the beginning of a new school year. Let’s make the best of it. We spend a lot of tax money for it. I believe everyone involved takes it seriously.

Eliminating senior poverty

AARP Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, David Whitehead, is encouraging financial support for a future without senior poverty.

In a recent piece of information crossing my desk, the numbers are staggering nationwide.

1. More than 38 million older adults do not have adequate financial resources.

2. 9.5 million older adults struggle to put food on the table.

3. More than 19 million people 50 and older live in unaffordable, unsafe, or inadequate housing.

Danger of cell phones

If you have a teen with a cell phone, as a parent you need to be concerned about what they are following. You need to have good rapport with your children so you can discuss issues like social media and how harmful it can be. 95% of all teens are reported to be online in areas of social media.

Also harmful is too much time on cell phones. You lose the opportunity for building relationships with other teens and oftentimes you don’t know how to look another person in the eye and have meaningful conversations. Being a parent is not easy. It’s especially challenging these days with dangerous material online that can suck you and your kids right in.

Let them run

A friend of mine, Barbara Baade, was a very successful business lady in the Milwaukee area. She died last year. When I was with her, I could always pick up management tips. Following are some that might be helpful to our readers who are involved in business or leadership.

1. When it comes to projects, just do it.

2. Focus daily on two items that must get done.

3. If a problem is brought to you, a manager should have three solutions to present. Give your opinion as a leader, but let them run.

Insurance rates going up

Minnesota and California are leading the nation when it comes to hail and wind damage to homes and businesses, but then there are the areas where hurricanes and tornadoes have been hitting. You can be sure insurance rates are going to continue to climb and it’s very likely to be spread across the nation. I think that’s part of the inflation spiral, too.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

School resource officers play valuable, meaningful role for students

Legislator Lingo Elliot Engen

Ihope everyone has enjoyed the tail-end of summer as we head into the season of fall colors, football Sundays, pumpkin spice everything, and the start of a new school year. To all our community’s students, parents, teachers and school staff, I wish you a great year of achievement and success.

As an alumnus of our local public schools, I remember feeling both anxious and excited during the first days back on campus. Whether it be from the all-too early morning alarm clock, the fear of not finding my classroom in time for the bell, or getting the first homework assignment of the year, the first days of a new school year always came with some trepidation. Despite the initial worries, I was lucky to be surrounded by peers, teachers, staff and

• Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election.

Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that.

Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $45 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

role-models who always made sure I knew that everything would be alright.

One of these role-models was Officer Touma, our school resource officer (SRO). He would always go out of his way to give us all a smile, chat with us during lunch, and check in on us when it was apparent something was wrong. He would also occasionally break-up a school fight and conduct public safety measures in severe situations.

He became a friend and trusted protector to many of us. His passion for helping students did not go unnoticed. He even earned the 2015 Service to Youth Award from Northeast Youth and Family Services.

Occasionally, I’ll still say hi to Officer Touma while I see him out and about. To me, he will always be the role model I met in high school.

Fast forward to 2023. Minnesota House Democrats included a provision in their education bill to prevent SRO’s from having the tools necessary to effectively do their jobs. With liabilities higher, and new, ambiguous laws that make it harder for an

SRO to ensure school safety, resource officers in our district and across the state are being pulled from schools altogether. This law the DFL passed is shortsighted, erroneous, and dangerous altogether for every Minnesotan who works or learns in a school.

My GOP colleagues and I are calling on Governor Walz to set aside politics. We need a special session so we can pass legislation that will ensure School Resource Officers are available for our students this year, just as they were there for me years ago.

While we wait and hope for action by the DFL majority, I’ll continue to support our school resource officers just as they have stood by us.

The safety of our students and teachers cannot wait. We need to act now to give every student, parent and teacher what they deserve: Safe schools.

Rep. Elliott Engen represents District 36A. He can be reached by phone at 651-296-2365, or by email at Rep.Elliott.Engen@ house.mn.gov

LETTER GUIDELINES FOR ELECTION SEASON 2023

Letters for or against a candidate will qualify as paid letters. Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification.

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

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits.

Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer.

Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.

Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters. Letters reprinted as part of letterwriting campaigns are paid letters.

All letters are subject to editing. We reserve the right to not publish any letter.

The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication.

The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 7 election will be printed in the Oct. 24 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.18.

To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651-4291242 or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

Gene Johnson

Celebrate Constitution Day, National Voter Registration Day this month

We the People: it’s time to celebrate! Constitution Day, always on Sept. 17 when the constitution was signed by our founders in 1787, is a chance to celebrate what it means to be American. Observance of this day started in 1953. Yes, Independence Day on July 4 is important to celebrate, but Constitution Day celebrates what we stand for — our guiding principles and basic rules and laws.  Crafted over 230 years ago, the Constitution, including the amendments, is still considered a brilliant document that shapes the lives of Americans today. This is an anniversary worth celebrating.

The Bill of Rights is a section of the Constitution that includes the first ten amendments to the Con-

stitution. Added in 1792, it guarantees many personal freedoms. Check it out. Is this something you can share with your children by asking, “How many constitutional amendments are there?”

(Answer: 27). Schools who receive federal funds will be doing some kind of educational event or activity for Constitution Day. You can also find many videos and age-appropriate documentaries online. This is a great chance to learn something new about the Constitution. Constitution Day is also known as Citizenship Day, a day especially important to our newest citizens who have done the hard work of becoming naturalized.

National Voter Registration Day is about building community and democracy (small ‘d’).  This year it falls on Sept. 19. One of our fundamental duties and privileges as Americans is to become informed voters.  There will be events to register voters at high schools and others for naturalized citizens.  Have you recently turned

18, moved, changed your name or haven’t voted in a while? Find information on registering or checking your voter registration at the Secretary of State’s office at sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting.  You can also see what will be on your ballot.

Finally, the League of Women Voters — White Bear Lake Area invites the public to a meeting on Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mahtomedi District Education Center, 1520 Mahtomedi Ave. What happened this year at the Legislature? So much! Check for more information on our website at lwv-wbla.org. The website also provides links to local contested candidates forums, available after the forums are held.

The League of Women Voters remains a trusted, nonpartisan, grassroots organization.

Stephanie McNamara is the President League of Women Voters White Bear Lake Area.

Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories

1. White Bear’s new police chief ready to partner with community. White Bear Press > News

2. White Bear Area Food Shelf to get 2nd home. White Bear Press > News

3. Swimming: Bears end long victory drought with win a Park-Cottage Grove. White Bear Press > Sports

4. Football: Cougars rumble past Coon Rapids 48-22 in opener. Quad Community Press > Sports

5. Marine Mills Folk School will host fall festival. The Lowdown (SCV) > News

Name)

Stephanie McNamara

Discussions on future of fire department continue

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

LINO LAKES — The City Council is still not sold on spending approximately $100,000 to bring in an independent consultant to study the city’s fire services.

Council Member Christopher Lyden has requested that the city use some of its approximately $929,000 public safety aid dollars it received from the state of Minnesota to hire the consultant for long-term planning for the department.

Last month, the council directed city staff to obtain a range of services and cost estimates for a consultant and prepare a summary of the city’s current cost of fire services.

Public Safety Director John Swenson explained that the city of Hopkins put out a request for proposals in the spring of 2023 for a consultant to evaluate its fire services and received proposals ranging from $68,000 to $160,000. The city is set to receive the final report Sept. 19, and

the cost will likely turn out to be $95,000 to $100,000.

Swenson thought it would be a good investment for the city to make. “(It would put) everything on the table and look for a long-term solution, not a reactionary solution, to the challenges that we are having related to the delivery of fire services in our community,” he said.

City staff looked at what the city has spent on fire services since 2008. In 2008, while Lino Lakes was part of the Centennial Fire District, the city spent approximately $557,000. In 2022, that number was approximately $1.66 million. For 2024, the city is projecting that number to be over $2 million. (See graph for details).

Mayor Rob Rafferty pointed out that back in 2014, the city hired Springsted to do the same thing: evaluate fire services and came up with some options for the department.

“We have been looking at things for the fire department for quite some time related to the issues that are happening throughout not only the

state of Minnesota but other states, cities and communities. We put a great deal of time into it,” Rafferty said. “The problems we have are going to be just like everyone else. We can’t win the battle if we aren’t going to bring money to the table.”

Rafferty said he would not be in favor of doing any additional analysis at this time and, bottom line, he felt the salaries need to be increased.

Lyden said, “It’s an obvious problem, and choosing to ignore a problem doesn’t solve it …

The challenge is to look forward. I plead this council to look forward.” He added that the analysis could look at whether a collaboration with a neighboring agency might be beneficial, like Spring Lake Park, Blaine, Mounds View Fire Department.

Council Member Michael Ruhland said he wasn’t necessarily for or against bringing in a consultant, but that first, he’d like to see some data from neighboring communities such as what they are paying their paid-

Attention big dog lovers, Rexx is an XL Doberman Pinscher mix who is looking to become part of an active family or to find an active partner. Rexx is 3 years old and weighs about 85 pounds. He is playful and social with other dogs, and he hasn’t met a human he doesn’t like. He loves to be with his people and will always be by their side.

Rexx is smart, friendly and even-tempered. He likes to play fetch and he likes to go on car rides. Rexx arrived at Ruff Start Rescue through a shelter transfer. He is kennel-trained and is still working on becoming 100% house-

on-call staff, what their pensions and department structure are, etc.

Council Member Dale Stoesz said he didn’t feel that bringing in a consultant would be helpful to tell them what they already know.

“As I think of the next 20 years, we are going to have two fire stations, fully equipped, paid for by the local municipality. That’s not questionable, is it? Do we need a consultant to tell us we are going to have two stations, fully equipped, paid for by local municipalities?”

Ultimately, the council directed city staff to continue gathering information on neighboring departments for a comparative analysis. The council did not make any decisions as to whether to hire a consultant. The council will continue to discuss the item at upcoming work sessions.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

trained. Although he knows some of his basic commands, a great opportunity for Rexx and his new partner or family would be a formal training schedule. This will help him be the best boy he can be.

If you are interested in learning more about Rexx 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.

Another reason to look forward to Tuesdays!

CONTRIBUTED

The city continues discussions about whether the city should invest approximately $100,000 to hire an independent consultant to look at the future of the fire department. This graph shows the total cost of fire services from 2008 up to 2023 and what is budgeted for 2024.

The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• An officer responded to a theft report at a convenience store in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road Aug. 30. The incident is under investigation.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 700 block of Main Street Aug. 31. The male driver was charged with fourth-degree DWI.

• Officers responded for an assault at a construction site in the 6600 block of Chestnut Street Aug. 31. After investigation, one male was arrested on assault charges.

• A community service officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Teckla Court for a complaint regarding cats in a neighborhood Aug. 31. The investigation is ongoing.

• An officer responded on a report of a broken window in the 2200 block of Lacasse Drive Aug. 31. The officer determined the window was broken by an unintentional rock strike.

• An officer was requested to assist another agency with a K-9 track after a suspect fled from a crashed vehicle in the 7600 block of University Avenue NE Aug. 31. The suspect was located and arrested without incident.

• Officers and fire personnel responded to assist two stranded kayakers near the 7700 block of Main Street Aug. 31. They were transported to shore without incident.

• While on patrol in the 6500 block of Pheasant Run South Sept. 2, an officer located a vehicle in a city park after hours and three males on the playground. The males were advised of the park hours and left without incident.

• Officers responded to a senior care facility in the 600 block of Market Place Drive for an assault Sept. 3. An ambulance transported an

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Sheriff’s office hosts open house

Anoka County families are invited to come and see their Anoka County Sheriff’s Office and the diverse services the department provides to the citizens of the county during an open house from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21. Outdoor demonstrations, displays and opportunities to interact with the department’s public safety partners will be available. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from Mansetti's, Eggroll Queen, PJs Grill and Original Hockey Mom Brownies food trucks. The sheriff’s office is located at 13301 Hanson Blvd. NW in Andover.

adult female to a hospital to be evaluated. The investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded to a report of juveniles climbing on scaffolding on a construction site in the 600 block of Apollo Drive Sept. 3. The juveniles were gone upon officers’ arrival.

• An officer took a report of property damage in the 200 block of Baldwin Circle Sept. 3. There is no suspect information at this time, and the investigation is ongoing.

• Officers were advised of a stranded boat on a local lake near the 7400 block of Main Street Sept. 4. The officers worked with fire personnel to assist the boat operator back to shore.

• An officer was dispatched to a possible personal injury crash near Enid Trail and Sioux Lane Sept. 4. The incident was reported automatically by a smartphone. The officer determined there was no accident, and that the phone had fallen from a vehicle. The phone was located and returned to the owner.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for multiple traffic violations on I-35E near Main Street Sept. 4. The male driver was charged with fourth-degree DWI.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:

• Officers responded to the 800 block of Civic Heights Drive in Circle Pines Aug. 23 for a report of theft. The investigation is ongoing.

• Property damage was reported in the 0 block of Oak Leaf Lane in Circle Pines Aug. 24.

• Officers were dispatched to a business in the 7000 block of Centerville Road in Centerville Aug. 25 for a burglary. Suspects were gone on officer arrival. The incident is under investigation.

• Police conducted a traffic stop near the

CALENDAR BRIEF

Alexandra House hosts

HopeFest

HopeFest is one of Alexandra House’s signature events.

It raises awareness about domestic and sexual violence, while raising funds for Alexandra House. The core principles of the event are to

intersection of Pointcross Drive and Lake Drive in Circle Pines Aug. 25. The driver was subsequently arrested for third-degree DWI.

• Officers located juveniles in Lexington Memorial Park after hours Aug. 27. Their parents were contacted and the juveniles were escorted out of the park.

• Police were dispatched to a parking lot near the 9000 block of South Highway Drive in the city of Lexington Aug. 28 on a report of a possible dead body. Officers subsequently located a deceased male in a vehicle and notified the Anoka County Criminal Investigations Division for an investigation.

• Officers were dispatched to the 9200 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington Aug. 30 on a threat report. Officer took information regarding a party who was making threats over the phone. There are no known suspects at this time.

• Officers received a phone call from a resident in the 800 block of Civic Heights Drive in Circle Pines Aug. 31 regarding a neighborhood dispute.

• Police were dispatched to the 4100 block of Woodland Road in Circle Pines Aug. 31 on a hitand-run accident. Officers subsequently located the suspect, who was arrested for DWI.

• Officers conducted a traffic stop near North Road and North Star Lane in Circle Pines Sept. 1. The driver was subsequently arrested for third-degree DWI. That same day, an officer observed a driver without a seatbelt near Pine Drive South and South Drive in Circle Pines. That driver was arrested for possessing a controlled substance.

• Police were dispatched to a water rescue near Indian Hills Drive in Circle Pines Sept. 4.

raise awareness about domestic and sexual violence, remember those we have lost and honor the many survivors. The event includes a brief program, a 1-plus mile walk, Kidz Dash and Kidz Zone with balloon twisters, face painters and games, BBQ from The Bones Brothers, and a vendor/

exhibitor resource fair.  The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at Anoka City Hall Plaza, 2015 First Avenue in Anoka. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. alexandrahouse.org/hope-fest.

ROBOT LEGS: Fun run raises awareness for accessibility and

offer them resources.

The foundation gets its name from her son Karter, who was born via an emergency caesarean section after his mother experienced a spontaneous fetal maternal hemorrhage. Karter suffered a massive hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy injury (HIE). At first, the family was told Karter wouldn’t survive, then it turned into “he might not live to see his first birthday” … and then, “You can probably make a fiveyear plan.”

Goodchild describes Karter, 7, as a “medically complex child.” As a result of the brain injury, he has cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a feeding tube; he is also nonverbal. One technology Goodchild and her family will be forever grateful for is the Trexo Robotics Gait Trainer or, more simply, “robot legs.” Karter was the first child in the state of Minnesota to get one back in January 2020.

A man from Canada created the robot legs for his nephew, who had cerebral palsy and was told he would never be able to walk. The family continues to see progress and many benefits from using the device.

Christopher Schlemmer, 10, of Forest Lake has had his robot legs for a year. Christopher’s mother, Melissa Schlemmer, explained that he has congenital disorder of glycosylation, also known as PMM2.

IF YOU GO

“When he was born, we were under the impression that he was typically healthy. We had no idea that he had this underlying condition,” she said. “It wasn’t until (he was) a few months old that we thought something wasn’t right.”

Christopher was not gaining weight the way he should have, and he had low muscle tone. At the age of 9 months old, a bunch of tests revealed he had PMM2. Christopher is more severely affected than many of his peers who have

What: Second annual Kourageous Karter Fun Run

When: Saturday, Sept. 16. Kids’ run at 8:30 a.m.; 5K fun run at 9 a.m.

Where: Lions Volunteer Park, 5524 Upper 146th St. N., Hugo

Details: The second annual run will feature a kids’ fun run/walk, 5K fun run/ walk, silent auction, face painting, food trucks, bubble station and more. To register, visit https://kourageouskarter.org/kkf-fun-run-2023.

Contact: kourageouskarterfoundation@gmail.com

PMM2. He is nonverbal and struggles with gross motor skills.

Melissa is happy that she decided to make the investment in robot legs for Christopher, as she has seen some improvement. “The therapists have said using it on a consistent basis has improved his endurance; he is able to go longer hours in therapy and he is not as tired out. It has improved his trunk control/strength and his head control,” she said.

Mitchell Starken, 4, of Woodbury, had an in-utero stroke attributed to an extremely rare genetic disorder called Gould syndrome, which led to cerebral palsy. Among other diagnoses, he has epilepsy. He got his robot legs in December 2022.

Cole Carlson, 6, of Hastings, has a similar story to Karter in that he was not expected to survive when he was born. He suffered a brain injury at birth, resulting in HIE, cerebral palsy

and a seizure disorder. He received his robot legs in October 2022.

Although some specialized clinics and hospitals have a set of robot legs, it is rare for children to have them at home and in their communities because they are expensive. Families can lease a set of robot legs for $1,000 a month. After three years, if the child is still experiencing benefits from the technology, they will own the device for $36,000.

Goodchild says some good news is that Minnesota’s medical assistance program is beginning to cover the technology with waivers; however, many families are forced to choose between robot legs or other necessities like home modifications or nursing staff.

The Kourageous Karter Foundation hopes to raise $25,000 this year, which will be used to provide a scholarship for at least one child. Last year’s event raised just over $20,000. Thirty-eight applicants applied for the scholarship, but the foundation was only able to fund one.

Although some children with robot legs may eventually be able to walk independently, many of them never will. “For Karter, that (walking independently) is not a reality,” Goodchild explained. “We use this technology because it allows him to get that experience and the medical benefits of walking.”

For more information on the event or the foundation, or to register for the event, visit https://kourageouskarter. org.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

The Korageous Karter Fun Run will be held at Lions Volunteer Park in Hugo Saturday, Sept. 16. The event

CENTENNIAL THEATRE: Creates more opportunities for students on stage

company to put on a weeklong camp to stage a show. That fell through this summer, but Centennial Theatre stepped in to fill the gap and launched Centennial Youth Theatre. In one week, 82 students, ages 7 to 14, put together “Cinderella.”

“We treated it like a real production,” said Brandy Wallace Eckman, vice president of the Centennial Theatre Boosters. Webster added, “It was a full set, full costume, full props, full lighting, full sound … a full show.”

Centennial Youth Theatre is already planning for next summer. Next year, group one (second through fifth grade) will meet for one week and perform, followed by group two (sixth grade through ninth grade). Both will perform “Snow White.”

Theatre Beyond

A new program this year that is already up and running is Theatre Beyond. The program is designed for students who are considering a career in the performing arts. Webster said, “That could be on stage, it could be marketing, it could be producing, (or) a playwright.”

The program is designed to bring more opportunities for education, learning, fundamentals and experience to high school students. The program will bring in a variety of expert guest speakers. Students will also have the opportunity to attend professional shows with venue tours and opportunities for Q&As with cast and crew.

Those who want to participate should routinely check the Centennial Theatre website to stay up-to-date on the latest offerings.

Apeiron

on Stage

Beginning this January, students with special needs will also have an opportunity to get on stage if they so desire. “Apeiron” is a Greek word that means unlimited and boundless.

Webster said the program was loosely inspired by Edina’s Theatre For All program. During the regular

FOR MORE INFORMATION: visit centennialtheatre.org

school day, high school students will head to the Performing Arts Center for an hour, where they will be paired with a neurotypical theater student.

“It is a great learning experience both ways,” Webster said. “We're going to talk to those students. Do they like to sing? Do they like to move? Do they like to dance? Do they want to do monologues? And we'll put on a show based on what kind of performance they want to do and come up with some kind of theme.”

This first year, the program will likely start out small, capped at 10 students, with the potential to expand in the future.

On Feb. 15, the group will put on a show for Centennial High School as well as the community.

Actors Workshop and Monologue Cabaret

Over spring break, middle school or high school students can participate in a one-week workshop. Students will work with a Twin Cities theater teaching artist one-on-one, over five 30-minute sessions, on a monologue of their choosing, or that is chosen for them by the teaching artist. The experience will lead up to a final performance of monologues at the end of the week (March 15). The program is open to students with little experience up to those who want to improve their skills with hopes of pursuing theater beyond high school.

Classic Movie Club

Beginning in June, Centennial Theatre will launch the Classic Movie Club. Webster said the new expansion was “personal.”

“We grew up with four channels. That means that we all had the same information in our head. We've watched classic movies or we’ve watched classic TV shows. With the amount that they have now of streaming and everything, there's no connection to the past like we grew up with,” Webster said. “I’m way too young for ‘Casablanca,’ but I know it really well because it came on every year. We know ‘Wizard of Oz’ because of that fact. When you say Marx Brothers, Lucille Ball, Humphrey Bogart, there's no recognition.”

The movie frequency has yet to be determined, but several movies will be shown to audiences ages 14 and older. The program is open to all students, beyond theater students, as well as interested community members.

Each movie will be hosted by an expert on that particular film. Before the movie plays and after the movie finishes there will be discussion on the movie.

Webster says Centennial Community Education has been a big partner in the theater program’s expansion.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm

TART LAKE ROAD: Not a ‘statistical problem,’ but a ‘perception problem’

FROM PAGE 1

Hankeee explained that before the driver feedback sign was installed, the average speed limit was 33 mph. Now, the average speed is around 29 or 30 mph. Hankee did say that traffic volumes on the roadway have continued to steadily increase over the years.

She added that there likely is cut-through traffic. One of the problems is that Google Maps likely lists it as the shortest route for people who are not from the area. WSB has submitted a proposal to evaluate the data and provide recommended solutions. The study would cost $16,500 and include a traffic generation analysis incorporating projected volumes, an all-way-stop warrant analysis, a pedestrian volume review, improvement recommendations and preparation of concept alternatives.

“When you look at the data, there is not a statistical problem here. This is a perception problem,” said Public Safety Director John Swenson. “We have tried to address that several times in our community with little success … and we are still talking about Tart Lake Road. If your goal is to get all of our residents happy with the volume of traffic or their perception of the speed, that is an unlikely goal; you won’t meet that goal.”

Owens elaborated further. “We ran targeted enforcement in the spring and summer of 2022. We had 40 sessions where we had officers out there, and the fastest speed we recorded was 31 mph. We are not getting a lot of speeding violations,” he said.

Deputy Director Kyle Leibel added that the police department has yet to see a crash in the area that was related to pedestrians or children.

Council Member Michael Ruhland suggested that before the city spends money on analysis, it host an open house or solicit feedback from the neighbors in some way.

Mayor Rob Rafferty said he would like to see another driver feedback sign for the eastbound direction. Ruhland said he agreed.

Council Member Dale Stoez said he wanted to hold off on the analysis and keep monitoring the situation. “We have a lot of roads that have complaints,” he said.

The council ultimately directed city staff to look into purchasing a portable driver feedback sign that could be moved around to other locations in the city, and to solicit feedback from the neighboring residents.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

can be reached at 651-4071227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

JOEL ECKMAN | CONTRIBUTED

Centennial Theatre now boasts an abundance of programs for students of all ages. In addition to the musicals and plays, students can consider One-Act, Improv, Centennial Youth Theater, Theatre Beyond, Apeiron on Stage, Classic Movie Club and more.

JOEL ECKMAN | CONTRIBUTED

One opportunity for students at the high school level is One-Act.

MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED

This past summer, Centennial Theatre launched Centennial Youth Theatre and 80 students participated in the show, “Cinderella.”

JOEL ECKMAN | CONTRIBUTED

Another opportunity for students at the middle school and high school levels is Improv.

CONTRIBUTED

Over the years the city has received several requests for improvmenets along Tart Lake Road. Lino Lakes performed multiple speed studies in 2013, 2015 and, most recently, 2022. The blue dots indicate the location where speed/volume of traffic data was collected; the green triangles indicate the location of pedestrian data collection; and the red star indicates where the speed driver feedback sign is located.

Cougars hit the ground running, thump Cardinals, Bengals

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

A rampaging ground game has carried the Centennial Cougars to a 2-0 start, vanquishing the Coon Rapids Cardinals 48-22 on Aug. 31 and the Blaine Bengals 45-20 last Friday, both at home. The Cougars are averaging 7.8 yards in 94 rushes behind stout blocking.

“I love how physical we have been as an offensive line,” coach Mike Diggins assessed. “I think Daylen Cummings and Mav Harper have played as advertised. Both are demonstrating leadership  and physical play. Ty Burgoon has played outstanding. He is a more physical and more violent runner than last year.”

The Cougar defense, meanwhile, has given up some big plays. A brilliant Coon Rapids receiver burned them for three long touchdowns, and Blaine’s quarterback rushed for 191 yards. Diggins isn’t worried: “We have some younger kids playing on that side of the ball that are improving each week.” The Cougars have made some key stops, too, including five interceptions.

Next for the Cougars will be Maple Grove there Thursday evening.

Cougars 48, Coon Rapids 22

Three long pass plays by the Cardinals kept the game close for a

SPORTS BRIEFS

VOLLEYBALL

Centennial had a busy week with six matches in four days, winning two of them. The Cougars are 3-6. Roseville Area defeated Centennial 25-22, 2519, 25-17 on Wednesday. Maple Grove topped the Cougars 25-13, 25-18, 25-20 on Thursday in the conference opener. Elena Hoecke logged 10 kills and three blocks, and Aubrie Wirkkala 13 digs. In the Apple Valley tournament Friday and Saturday, the Cougars beat Cretin-Derham Hall 25-20, 21-25, 15-10, lost to Caledonia 25-14, 25-18, beat Mounds View 25-19, 26-24, and lost to Fillmore Central 25-19, 25-17. In the tournament, Hoecke logged 38 kills and 27 digs, Wirkkala 28 digs and 13 kills, and Chase Manthey 70 assists.

while but the Cougars pulled away, enjoying a huge time of possession edge with 339 yards rushing and four interceptions.

Harper carried 28 times for 170 yards and powered for four touchdowns, from one, one, 27 and five yards.  Cummings scored from three and nine yards out, and Marcus Whiting from one yard.

Cummings carried 12 times for 87 yards. He completed three of five passes, to Burgoon (22 yards), Kellen Binder (17 yards) and Brock Burgraff (seven yards).  Burgoon gained 40 yards in seven totes.

The Cougars made just one run over 15 yards but had to punt only once. Powering the ground game were linemen Joe Streff, Logan Wakefield, Trenton Campbell, Benson Hartman, Bradley Brown, Alex Johnson, Alex Larkin and Kellen Binder.

Khijohn Cummings-Coleman, Coon Rapids receiver lauded in a Star-Tribune article as one of the top 10 recruits in the state, lived up to his billing. The blazing 6-foot senior scored from 47, 63 and 69 yards on passes from Jackson Hettwer, rolling up 252 yards in nine catches. Hewter was 20-for-31 for 332 yards plus a pair of two-point conversions. The Cardinals (1-1) were within 27-22 midway through the third period.

However, the Cougars tempered that air game with interceptions by  Josh

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Centennial placed third of six teams in a meet at Elm Creek Park in Maple Grove on Aug. 31. Scoring was Wayzata 29, Minnetonka 38, Centennial 83, Perham 88, Maple Grove 124 and Irondale 190. Avery MarascoJohnson placed first in 18:27. For Centennial, Kylie Nelson placed ninth (19:34), Abby Wood 13th (20:12), Abby Smith (20:17), Julia Zalewski 22nd (20:47) and Anna Swanson 32nd (21:18) among 72 runners.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Centennial placed seventh of nine teams in a meet at Elm Creek Park in Maple Grove on Aug. 31. Wayzata and Minnetonka placed 1-2. Perham’s Bjorn Anderson was the individual winner in 15:44. Leading the Cougars were Alex Persing in 24th place (17:37) and Cody Nelson 37th (18:16) among 96 runners.

GIRLS SOCCER

Centennial thumped Champlin Park 6-1 on

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Maverick Harper Centennial Football

Maverick Harper led the Centennial football team to 93 points in the first two games, racking up seven touchdowns in wins of 48-22 against Coon Rapids and 45-20 against Blaine. The 5-foot-10, 190-pound senior carried 28 times for 170 yards and four TD’s in the opener, and 14 times for 186 yards last week, including an 89-yard TD. “Mav has all the tools for a great running back: toughness, speed and vision,” said coach Mike Diggins. The Cougars are glad, he said, to have Harper back in the lineup and healthy; he missed most of last season with an ankle injury after gaining 274 yards in two games. 4661 Highway 61 | White Bear Lake northstarbank.com | 651-429-4531

7

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Lee (twice), Will Quick and Ayden Sadowski. They had one quarterback sack, by Wallace. Middle linebacker Tim Ball made 15 tackles.

Cougars 45, Blaine 20 Harper’s 89-yard touchdown run in the first period, through a big hole, was the marquee play. He  rolled up  186 yards in 14 carries, scoring twice more on plunges of one and two yards.

Burgoon added 150 yards in 10 totes, mostly around end, with a 33-yard touchdown. Cummings opened the scoring with a three-yard run and closed it with a 27-yard pass to Kellen Binder. Cummings picked up 60 yards in nine carries. The Cougars had 394 yards rushing and 77 passing.

Keaton Frase, on loan from the soccer team, booted six extra points and a 25-yard field goal. He is 12-for-12 on conversions.

Blaine quarterback Sam Shaughnessy dashed for 191 yards in 20 carries with a 51-yard touchdown. Michael Douglas added 96 in 19 carries, with 22- and 12-yard touchdowns in the third period. Blaine had one promising drive end with a fumble by Douglas at the one.  Ball made 16 tackles for the Cougars. Whiting, Melvin Wallace and Owen Ringen made 11 stops each, Sadowski eight and Ben Clausen seven. Quick intercepted a pass.

Tuesday and Maple Grove 5-1 on Thursday in the first two conference matches. The Cougars are 2-1-1 overall. Notching goals against Champlin Park were Addison Van Zee (two), Kenidee McDonald, Marisa Frost, Isabella Sipe and Gabriella Sipe, and against Maple Grove were Van Zee (two), Frost (two) and Isabella Sipe. Goalie Jordan Metz made two saves against Champlin Park (2-4) and nine against Maple Grove (1-3-1). In their first two games, the Cougars tied White Bear Lake 1-1 and lost to Stillwater 1-0.

BOYS SOCCER

Centennial nipped Champlin Park 1-0 on Tuesday evening in Champlin, then lost to unbeaten Maple Grove 1-0 on Thursday, in their first two conference matches. Dominic Trejo-Munson delivered the lone goal, in the second half, against Champlin Park. Georden Tschida made six saves and Noah Marquard one save. Centennial is 3-2, allowing just three goals.

Bruce Strand

7 p.m. – Football vs. Maple Grove at Maple Grove Senior High

7 p.m. – Boys soccer vs. Anoka at Anoka High School

Sept. 15:

3:30 – Cross country vs. several schools at Steve Michaud Park (Lakeville)

Sept. 16:

8 a.m. Girls tennis vs. several schools at East Ridge High School

1 p.m. – Girls swimming & diving vs. several schools at Spring Lake Park High School

Sept. 18:

7 p.m. Girls volleyball vs. Osseo at Osseo High School

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Ty Burgoon breaks free, on the way to a 150yard game against Blaine.

PHOTOS BY JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED Alhaji Harris (5) and Tim Ball of the Cougars bring down Blaine’s Matthew Plankers.

JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED Aubrie Wirkkala of the Cougars fielded a serve against Roseville Area.

Lexington does not approve police budget in hopes of formula change

BY BROOKE WOHLRABE AND SHANNON GRANHOLM CONTRIBUTING WRITER/MANAGING EDITOR

LEXINGTON— The Lexington City Council is hopeful the police governing board will consider a change to its appropriations formula for the 2024 budget.

For that reason, the City Council has decided not to approve the 2024 Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) Budget.

CLPD operates off a joint powers agreement (JPA) between the three cities it serves: Circle Pines, Centerville and Lexington. Per the JPA, cities are required to approve the proposed budget by Sept. 15. If all cities do not sign off on the budget by then, the cities then have until Oct. 31 to attempt to resolve outstanding issues. The cities then have until Nov. 30 to approve the

proposed budget.

The police governing board has discussed making possible changes to the appropriations formula, which determines how much each city pays for police services. The current formula, which has been around for 20 years or so, is based on 40% call volume, 40% population and 20% call type/severity. One of the proposed changes to the formula discussed would be based on 40% population, 40% call volume and 20% taxable market value.

City Administrator Bill Petracek told the council that if it were to not approve the budget, Circle Pines provided an estimate of what the budget would look like and Lexington’s obligation would drop from $120,000 down to $80,000 more than what it was last year.

“With that, we’d have to cut about $180,000 out of the

DNR offers ways to learn about new fall outdoor activities

As summer wanes, fall outdoor activities are around the corner. Anyone who wants to experience the outdoors in a new way can boost their fishing, hunting, habitat and outdoors know-how with webinars from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“Fall is a time to savor the outdoors and for those doing the same activities year after year, I’d offer that our webinars are a great first step toward broadening your outdoors horizons,” said Benji Kohn, volunteer mentor program coordinator.

The webinars are part of the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series that started in March 2021. New webinars this fall are on topics that will appeal to people interested in nature, including anglers and hunters. The live webinars are at noon on Wednesdays and last an hour or less. All webinars are live-captioned, recorded and made available on the Minnesota DNR website. The recordings are popular with those who can’t make the live events.

Fall webinar topics include hunting deer with a crossbow, woodcock hunting, sandhill cranes, planning a bird hunting road trip, fall turkey hunting, fall fishing tips, ciscos (freshwater fishes) in Minnesota lakes, knife care, elk in Minnesota, the No Child Left Inside Grant Program, planning a wilderness canoe trip, plant diseases like galls on goldenrod, and emerald ash borers.

Lindsey Shartell, DNR northeast regional wildlife manager, will discuss everything about the American woodcock on Sept. 13. She will cover where to find woodcock in Minnesota, how to hunt them, using dogs, appropriate guns, ammo and more.

The webinars are free, and participants must register in advance. More information,

budget, but again based on the JPA, you have about two or three months to figure it out before the budget goes into effect,” Petracek said.

Petracek added the council would discuss the topic further in closed sessions to strategize.

Council Member Kim DeVries asked if the council could table the matter. Petracek said that it could, but he felt like the council should resolve the matter during that meeting. “If you go after Sept. 15 and no action is taken, the JPA says that you’ve approved it and we move forward with it,” he explained.

Ultimately, the council unanimously chose to not approve the CLPD 2024 budget. The cities of Centerville and Circle Pines are schedule to consider the CLPD 2024 budget at meetings this week.

• The city will replace its 2008 Ford F550 Super Duty dump truck for $95,550 with a 2024 F-550 Regular Cab.

City Administrator Bill Petracek said the item was budgeted for $80,000 in 2023, but will carry over to next year’s budget, as the delivery date likely won’t be for six months. The price increased due to inflation.

• The city has certified the proposed tax levy requirements for 2024. The total debt service levy has been set at $1,604,123. Petracek said that

during the preliminary budget meeting, a 10% increase was discussed, but the levy is just preliminary— meaning it can go down, but it cannot go up.

• Centennial/Spring Lake Park girls hockey will host a fundraiser called Hocktoberfest Oct. 7 at the Boulevard Bar and Grill.

• North Metro TV is now streaming Lexington meetings in a podcast format. Petracek explained that residents can watch the meetings on their cell phones via an app.

• There is a new

business in town. Four Point Construction LLC is located at 9040 N Highway Drive. Four Point Construction is a team of Twin Cities roofing, siding and storm damage professionals that provide construction and insurance claim services throughout the state of Minnesota.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 at City Hall.

CONTRIBUTED

including fall session topics and how to register, is available on the outdoor skills and stewardship page of M Minnesota DNR website (mndnr.gov/ discover).

Department of Natural Resources

Minnesota DNR seeks applications for advisory committees

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is recruiting new members to serve on key advisory groups related to Minnesota’s natural heritage, aquatic invasive species, outdoor recreation and Lake Superior Coastal Program. The DNR would like each committee to include a diverse mix of backgrounds, perspectives, locations and lived experiences. Interested people can learn more or apply online at engage.dnr.state.mn.us/advisory-groupappointment-opportunities.

Brooke Wohlrabe and Shannon Granholm

LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

DNR BRIEF

The Minnesota DNR is offering a variety of webinars this fall.

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275

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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.

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Please send resume to: 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110 or email resume to: ppinfo@presspubs.com

The City of Hugo is seeking an individual to perform a variety of skilled, semi-skilled and manual work in the routine maintenance of municipal streets and storm sewers, water and wastewater collection systems and City buildings, parks, and other grounds. This position operates a variety of light and heavy equipment. Minimum Requirements: HS graduate or equivalent, valid MN Class B commercial driver’s license or ability to obtain within six months and Class D water and Class SD collections systems licenses or ability to obtain within two years. Preferred Qualifications: Vocational training in water/wastewater technology. Experience operating heavy equipment including snow removal equipment and motor graders. The 2023 salary range is $27.25 to $35.51 per hour. A complete job description and City application is available on the City’s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us/jobs_volunteer and at Hugo City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Av. N., Hugo, MN 55038, or by calling 651-762-6315. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but it

Press Publications is looking for an entry level, motivated graphic designer for a part-time position with the possiblity of full-time. As part of the production-design team, you'll have a vital role in making sure the weekly and biweekly papers get out the door.

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PUBLIC WORKS JOB OPPORTUNITY

Utilities Lead Worker

Serves as the lead worker responsible for organizing and leading a crew of workers in utility (storm/sanitary/water) maintenance activities including prioritizing daily work tasks and long-range goals of the City’s utility infrastructure. Leads crews in the troubleshooting and performing of the more complex maintenance repairs to the City’s utility infrastructure. This position also performs general Public Works duties as needed. Operates a variety of heavy equipment to maintain City infrastructure and other general maintenance and repair work. Serves on the City’s “on-call” rotation, and responds to emergency situations for all aspects of public works. Preferred qualifications: High school degree or equivalent. Training in related fields and at least three years of experience with a municipal public works department. Demonstrated leadership skills and proficiency in the utilities maintenance field. Demonstrated mechanical aptitude. Class A commercial driver’s license with Tank Vehicle (N) endorsement or the ability to obtain one within 6 months. Must possess at least a Class C water operator’s license and Class S-C Collection system license and must obtain both Class B water and Class S-B sewer licenses within 12 months. Ability to attend employer-required training and obtain additional water and wastewater licenses and education as directed. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The first review of application will take place on Friday, October 13, 2023. A complete job description and application can be found at ci.hugo.mn.us/jobs_ volunteer or by contacting the Hugo Public Works Department at 651-762-6301. Applications can be submitted to Hugo City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Ave. N., Hugo, MN, 55038, or emailed to mlindau@ci.hugo.mn.us

PUBLIC NOTICES

August

at the Circle Pines City Hall has been changed to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 25, 2023 at the Circle Pines City Hall.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, a disabled individual may one week in advance contact City Hall by phone at (763) 784-5898, or TOO (763) 231-2617; or in writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.

Patrick Antonen, Clerk of the City of Circle Pines

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on September 12, 2023.

SP TTED

Removal of emerald ash borer: What to expect

BY SEBASTIAN STUDIER CONTRIBUTING WRITER

As trees across our communities show signs of emerald ash borer (EAB) infestation, here’s what homeowners can expect from their city when it comes time to remove unfit trees.

In the city of White Bear Lake, dead, diseased and dying trees are regulated under Chapter 706 of the city code, which can be found at https://www.whitebearlake.org/ sites/default/files/fileattachments/ administration/page/1721/ chapter_706.pdf. Residents are required to remove any dead, diseased or dying tree at their cost within a specified time frame. As for infected boulevard trees, residents are responsible for those that directly abut their property and can remove these trees at their cost, or the city will take them down and split the cost 50/50 with the homeowner per the ordinance.

There is no funding for the city to remove trees located on private property. Property owners’ only option is to hire a contractor to remove them or remove them themselves.

Using either staff members or contractors, the city does remove such trees on public properties, including parks and open spaces. The city is currently working to apply for several grants available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that would provide a no-match grant to remove and replant ash trees infected with EAB. An inventory performed in 2018 showed over 2,000 ash trees in the city’s active parks and on public properties and boulevards that could be eligible for removal using these grant funds.

The city of Lino Lakes is in the process of removing and replacing ash trees located within the rights of way and public spaces. City Environmental Coordinator Andrew Nelson says that the city also treats trees to keep them as healthy as possible until crews can perform the removals. There is no additional

cost to residents for removals and replacements on public right of way.

In Lino Lakes, removing or treating trees on private property is the responsibility of the homeowner. The city has a partnership with Rainbow Tree Care that offers residents a discount rate for injections of trees on private property.

In Circle Pines, infected trees on private property are tagged, and it’s the homeowners’ responsibility to remove them in a reasonable amount of time. City Administrator Patrick Antonen says that the city takes care of infected trees located on public property. Circle Pines is currently looking at grants to help property owners with removal of trees on private property, but has not yet been successful.

In Shoreview, the only options for ash trees with EAB infestations are treatment or removal. The city and residents are treating many ash trees with an insecticide trunk injection to prevent the trees from being infected or to avoid further damage to the tree.

Ash trees that aren’t being treated will need to be removed. The city is removing untreated ash trees on city property, including parks and boulevards. The city boulevard is the width of land between the street and the property line; the distance varies by street. The boulevard is part of the city right of way. Boulevard

ash tree removals are taking place currently and will continue over the next several years. Residents will be notified of boulevard ash removals prior to the work.

Now is the time for residents of Shoreview to make a plan for removing ash trees on their property if they have not been treating them. It is the responsibility of the property owner to remove untreated ash trees. Many trees that have not already been treated are too heavily infested with EAB for treatment to be effective. The DNR states that trees that have lost more than 50% of their canopy are not good candidates for treatment. Residents should contact licensed tree companies for estimates on tree removal.

Here are some tips from the city of Shoreview for hiring a tree care company:

• Check for a list of licensed tree care companies in your city

• Get more than one estimate

• Don’t pay for the work in advance

• Ask about the company’s certifications and experience

• Make sure you understand what work is included in the estimate

Sebastian Studier is a contributing writer with Press Publications. He can be reached by emailing news@ presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1200.

The Quad Community Press asked its social media followers to submit their back-to-school photos.

1. Second grader Ethan Averbeck, Blue Heron Elementary — Contributed

2. Eleventh grade foreign exchange students, Ava Hummel from Germany (left) and Anna Kovács from Hungary, Forest Lake Area High School — Contributed

3. Second grader Jacob Riegel, Centerville Elementary — Contributed

4. First grader Peter, Blue Heron Elementary — Contributed .

FILE PHOTOS

Jonathan Osthus, of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, points out damage from emerald ash borer (EAB) on a black ash tree at Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes. The number one way to identify EAB is to look for the S-shaped, serpentine tunnel gallery the larvae makes on the tree beneath the bark.