Quad Community Press

WINNERS TAB: Results are in for Best of Contest SEE INSIDE

Credit union, eye clinic win Best Place to Work

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

City limits can get a bit complicated around here. Perhaps that’s why a Lino Lakes business won the Best Place to Work in The Citizen’s Best Of Contest, while a Hugo business won the Best Place to Work in the Quad area’s Best Of Contest.

Each year, Press Publications hosts its Reader’s Choice Best of the Press Contest, asking locals to pick their favorites, ranging from breweries to area businesses and everything in between. All in all, the Best Of Contest (in all markets) saw 28,920 nominations for the ballot in 2023 compared to 14,744 in 2022, an increase of 96%. In 2023, 332,539 votes were cast compared to 294,616 in 2022, an increase of 12.8%.

Rising to the top in the Best Place to Work category for the Quad contest is Heartland Credit

Get outdoors with Scouts

Centennial area scouts will host a Fall Family Outdoor Expo from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at Golden Lake Park in Circle Pines. The event will feature a variety of exhibits, including: model rockets, games, monkey bridge, putt and chip golf, remote control cars and drones, obstacle course and fishing activities. There will also be a survival skills demonstration as well as an outdoor cooking demonstration.

Circle Pines budget increase offset by one-time public safety dollars

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR CIRCLE PINES — A

homeowner in Circle Pines whose home value remained at $275,000 from last year to this year will see a $2.60 savings per month on taxes. However, if a homeowner’s $275,000 home value increased by the median change (4.47%) to $287,000, they will see an increase of $2.18 a month on taxes.

CONTRIBUTED

This chart depicts the city’s tax rates

“All in all, we have a pretty good budget for next year,” said

City Administrator Patrick Antonen.

Due to an increase in citywide market value, the city’s tax rate will be reduced. The tax rate will be 42.845% in 2024, a decrease from 2023 (44.035%). Finance Director Kate Manson said that the city’s tax rate has dropped consistently since 2019. The city is proposing a balanced budget for 2024, meaning its total revenues ($3,577,891) will equal its total

CITY BUDGET: Expenditures set to increase for 2024

FROM

expenditures. Expenditures are set to increase by 9%; however, because the city will use one-time public safety dollars from the state of Minnesota ($217,664), the increase in expenditures borne by city taxpayers will amount to 3.1%.

Manson explained that the main reasons for the budget increase include: a 4% costof-living adjustment (COLA), step increases, and the addition of a new full-time parks staff member. Some capital expenditures are also in the mix, such as a new roof and solar panels at the city shop, sealcoating project, electric vehicle stations and system upgrades to the Anoka County sirens.

The cost of the city’s share of police services will increase by $128,496. The increase is due to some buildings/ground repairs, including concrete repair and gate replacement, the hiring of an additional officer, and new equipment (helmets, shields, stun guns, computers).

The cost of the city’s share of fire services will increase by $62,825. The increase is due to officer pay raises, national training opportunities and fire apparatus replacements.

Council Member Dean Goldberg inquired, “Every year, you look at this nibbling up, what are we going to be looking at in ’24 when we budget for ’25 without that government chunk of money (one-time public safety dollars)?”

Antonen explained that the 9.1% increase is mainly due to one-time police expenditures that will not repeat next year, and he said the city typically shoots for an increase of 3 to 4% each year.

The city’s Truth in Taxation public hearing has been set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 12. Following the hearing, the city will finalize its levy and budget for 2024.

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

BUSINESS BRIEF Rice Industries looks to expand

The city of Lino Lakes plans to sell 1.14 acres of land to TS Miller Co (Rice Industries) to facilitate its expansion.

Rice Industries is a 46-year-old full-service distributor serving the metal casting industries. Rice acquired a 1.9-acre parcel from the city in 1997 for the construction of a 10,000-square-foot warehouse facility at 424 Apollo Drive. In 2021, Rice Industries was acquired by TS Miller Co., which is now in the process of expanding the existing facility.

Community Development Director Michael Grochala explained that the proposed 14,000-square-foot expansion will require additional land to meet drainage, impervious surface and setback requirements. The city of Lino Lakes owns an adjacent 1.14-acre parcel. The parcel was originally used for borrow material as part of the development of the Apollo Business Park and serves as an overflow stormwater management ponding area for the Rice Industries site, Grochala said.

To facilitate the proposed expansion, city staff is proposing conveyance of the city parcel to TS Miller Co. The property is currently tax exempt and has a value of $24,000 per the county assessor’s office. To facilitate the project and place the property back on the tax rolls, the city is proposing a sale price of $1.

The city will retain a drainage and utility easement over the portion of property not needed for expansion purposes. TS Miller Co. will be responsible for city costs associated with the transfer. The conveyance will be conditioned on construction activities starting within 18 months of approval.

The City Council will hold the second reading of the ordinance relating to the sale of land at its next meeting Oct. 9. The company would like to begin construction as early as October 2023.

Shannon Granholm

Join us for tours, food, music, family-friendly activities, & more!

Lyngblomsten is celebrating the opening of its new senior living campus in Lino Lakes, and we want YOU to join us for our Grand Open House! Savor complimentary chef-prepared appetizers and treats, enjoy family-friendly activities, and take a tour. The campus features independent rental townhomes and apartments, assisted living, memory care, and a variety of amenities.

www.lyngblomsten.org/GrandOpenHouse

Lyngblomsten is a Christian nonprofit that has been serving older adults and their families through healthcare, housing, and community-based services since 1906.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

This chart shows the difference in taxes for homes that had no change in value compared to homes that saw the median change in value (4.47%).

This graph shows how the city’s expenditures by category (general government, public safety, public works, parks) have fluctuated from 2020 through the proposed budget of 2024.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

fireside lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: More than 30 vendors with produce and food items, artisan crafts, entertainment and activities.

Contact: shoreviewcommunitycenter. com

CIRCLE LEX FARMERS MARKET

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

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

Details: Mystery lovers and authors come together for conversation and reading inspiration. Oct. event features author Joshua Moehling. Cash bar. Tickets online. Contact: valleybookseller.com

FALL FRIDAYS AT THE FILLEBROWN

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Oct. 6

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave.

‘Lincoln Portrait.’ Free and open to the public.

Contact: lwbb.org

HUGO OKTOBERFEST CRAFT SHOW

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: Hugo American Legion Post 620, 5383 140th St. N.

CONTRIBUTED

The Hugo American Legion will host a fall craft show Saturday, Oct. 7. See calendar listing for more info.

ONGOING EVENTS

SHOREVIEW INDOOR FARMERS MARKET

When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15

Where: Shoreview Community Center

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

Contact: 612-272-3386

CURRENT EVENTS

TOTALLY CRIMINAL COCKTAIL HOUR

When: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4

Where: Stillwater Zephyr Theatre, 601 N. Main St.

Anoka County 2024 tax levy could see 15.4% increase

The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has approved a 15.44% preliminary property tax levy increase.

To reduce the financial burden felt by residents and businesses during the pandemic, the county kept its property tax levy at a 0% increase from 2021 to 2023.

Anoka County Board of Commissioners Chair Matt Look noted this year’s preliminary levy is a departure from recent levies, and there are several reasons why the 2024 cap was set higher.

“This budget reflects direct and indirect spending,” Look said. “Inflation is indirect spending –– that’s the cost of fuel, electricity and more. Just about everything has increased substantially. Anyone who goes to a grocery store or does projects in their home knows that. In

terms of the county’s direct spending, the board made the choice last year to invest in our employees through a market wage adjustment so we can attract and retain the best talent, which directly benefits the residents we serve. We’ve also had an increase in violent crimes, and we currently do not have enough staff in our Attorney’s Office to prosecute all the offenders. If offenders are not prosecuted within a statutory time frame, they can no longer be prosecuted. This is a public safety issue, and that’s why we’re hiring more attorneys. We’re investing in our County Attorney’s Office in a needed way that hasn’t been done in the past.”

Look and his fellow commissioners stressed that the 15.44% is the absolute maximum the county could levy, and

work will be done over the coming months to reduce that number, if possible, before a final levy is approved.

“We’ve invested a lot of time in working on the budget this year, and we are committed to looking at it even further, until December, so we can figure out more ways to reduce it,” Look said.

“We will be considering all suggestions from commissioners and county staff to further refine this budget.”

The county’s Truth in Taxation meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Nov 30. Details about that meeting will be posted on the county’s website, anokacountymn.gov. The Board of Commissioners will approve the final levy and budget during its 9:30 a.m. Dec. 1 meeting. The levy can be reduced prior to final approval, but it cannot increase.

Anoka County

Details: Take a self-guided tour of the 1879 lakeside cottage and enjoy refreshments on the porch.

Contact: whitebearhistory.org

SENIOR CENTER OPEN HOUSE

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Oct. 6

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2484 E. County Road F

Details: Learn about weekly activities, Meals on Wheels, travel opportunities, screenings and foot care clinic. Visit with vendors and shop at the Craft Corner. Free.

ROCKTOBERFEST

When: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6; 11 a.m.11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7; Noon-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8

Where: River Siren Brewing Co., 225 Main St. N., Stillwater

Details: Beer, German-inspired cuisine, and live music at the brewery and in the parking lot. Free admission. Contact: riversirenbrewing.com

LAKE WOBEGON BRASS BAND FALL CONCERT

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 6

Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi

Details: Concert program features a variety of works composed and arranged for the brass ensemble, including a narrated performance of Aaron Copland’s iconic and timely

Details: Indood and outdoor crafts show with 70 vendors, outdoor grill tent, beer and Bloody Mary tent, and outdoor games.

Contact: rsgdevelopment.com

FALL FAMILY OUTDOOR EXPO

When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: Golden Lake Park, Circle Pines

Details: Free event for families to experience what Scouting has to offer. Exhibits include games, model rockets, archery. Monkey bridge, putt and chip golf, RC cars and drones, outdoor cooking demo, obstacle course, fishing, and survival skills demo. Free.

Contact: bit.ly/falloutdoorexpo23

PAT DONAHUE AND THE PRAIRIE ALL STARS

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Guitarist for the “Guys All-Star Shoe Band” of Minnesota Public Radio’s A Prairie Home Companion for 20 years plays blues, folk, rockabilly, and more. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

UNITED STATES MARINE BAND

When: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 9

Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi

Details: “The President’s Own” band has toured since 1891. Free.

Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

Since

Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad

Saturdays & Sundays 10:30

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CENTENNIAL SCHOOL DISTRICT #12

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Centennial School District #12, will receive sealed bids at the District Office until 11:00 a.m., Thursday, October 12, 2023 for iPads.

Copies of specifications may be obtained from Director of Technology, Mike Christensen by phone: 763-792-6014.

Sealed bids shall be submitted on the bid form provided in the bid specifications and shall be submitted without alterations, additions or erasures. Sealed bids must be endorsed with the bidder name, address and labeled “iPad Project”.

Sealed bids will be received by the Executive Director of Business Services – Patrick Chaffey at the 4707 North Road Circle Pines, MN 55014. There is no agent for the receipt of sealed bids other than the Executive Director of Business Services.

The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities in the bidding.

Authorized by the Centennial Schools

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 3 and 10, 2023.

CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF HEARING ON DELINQUENT UTILITIES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on October 10, 2023 at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota to consider, and possibly approve, the proposed certification, to the County Auditor for collection with other taxes, unpaid charges for storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water, and garbage, refuse and recycling charges. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting.

If, after the hearing, the City Council finds that the amounts claimed as delinquent are actually due and unpaid, the City may certify the unpaid charges to the County Auditor for collection as other taxes are collected.

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 TDD (763) 231-2617; or writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.

Patrick Antonen, City Clerk

Dated: September 14, 2023

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 26 and October 3, 2023.

CITY OF CIRCLE PINES, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on October 10, 2023 at City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, Minnesota to pass upon the proposed assessment for delinquent accounts.

The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $4,300.00.

Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a signed, written objection is filed with the Clerk prior to the hearing, or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The Council may, upon such notice, consider any objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at any adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners, as it deems advisable.

If an assessment is contested or there is an adjourned hearing, the following procedure will be followed:

1. The City will present its case first by calling witnesses who may testify by narrative or by examination, and by the introduction of exhibits. After each witness has testified, the contesting party will be allowed to ask questions. This procedure will be repeated with each witness until neither side has further questions.

2. After the City has presented all its evidence, the objector may call witnesses or present such testimony as the objector desires. The same procedure for questioning of the City’s witnesses will be followed with the objector’s witnesses.

3. Counsel may represent the objector.

4. Minnesota rules of evidence will not be strictly applied; however, they may be considered and argued to the Council as to the weight of items of evidence or testimony presented to the Council.

5. The entire proceedings will be digitally recorded.

6. At the close of presentation of evidence, the objector may make a final presentation to the Council based on the evidence and the law. No new evidence may be presented at this point.

7. The Council may adopt the proposed assessment at the hearing. An owner may appeal assessment to district court pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the Mayor or Clerk of the City within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment; and filing such notice with the district court within ten days after service upon the Mayor or Clerk.

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 TDD (763) 231-2617; or writing to request reasonable assistance to be able to participate in these proceedings.

Patrick Antonen, City Clerk

Dated: September 14, 2023

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on September 26 and October 3, 2023.

CITY OF CIRCLE PINES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public accuracy test of vote counting equipment to be used in the November 7, 2023 General Election will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Circle Pines City Hall, 200 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines, MN 55014.

If you would like to witness this demonstration, you are welcome to do so at the above mentioned location.

Chandra Peterson, Assistant City Administrator for Public Services

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 3, 2023.

What journalism means to me

To me, journalism has always meant relaying the truth to the public, no matter what that takes or

that looks like. Journalism means leaving any and all preconceived notions or unconscious biases out the window. It’s transparent. In my reporting assignments, I always strive to paint a picture in the mind of the reader. I don’t want the reader to feel like they are reading a story and being distracted by the way I write.

Sebastian’s Script

what

As a reporter, I believe that it is your duty to write in a manner that brings the reader right into the story. No opinions, no extraneous details, just the story and what it is like to witness the story firsthand. I strive to put the reader in my position as if they were witnessing the happenings for themselves.

It is important for people to support real journalism because the industry of journalism has the power to keep people informed on the happenings in their communities. Journalism also has the power to keep public officials and public happenings in check. People need to know what is going on in their communities so they can be citizens that make informed decisions. A community without communication and information is a community destined to fail.

Sebastian Studier

It is important for the public to look for real journalistic reporting rather than believing everything they see on social media. Social media is a platform that is internationally structured to grab attention. This causes misleading information and misleading quotes to be in the public eye, right in the hand of the reader, on their phone screen. Social media is extremely popular and is in the hands of many people. Misinformation can be spread quickly on any social media platform and people can easily accept untrue information as fact. All people have a voice on social media, and many people use that voice to spread incorrect information.

I think that journalism is changing. Many people say that journalism is dying, but would not go that far. Print journalism is becoming less popular, there is no doubt about that. Online journalism is where the industry seems to be moving and where companies need to start moving their content. Journalism is by no means dead, as some people say. It’s changing. We just need to learn to change with it.

T he obvious question one may ask as they consider a subscription is why would anyone pay for a free paper? Let me share what your paid subscription does. First, it offsets the rising cost of newsprint.

Your subscription also helps offset some of the costs of keeping top notch staff and reporters who provide our readers a newspaper rich in content. Finally, paid subscriptions subsidize the cost of delivery, allowing the paper to be available to everyone in the community who wants it.

We need your support through a subscription more than ever. In many of our markets we have limited participation among readers, yet we know regular readers enjoy our product. Again, thank you to all our past supporters who have been with us through the ups and downs.

I f you have read or learned something that was beneficial to your family or life in our community in the past month, I would like to ask you to subscribe today by calling our office, filling out the envelope or flyer that was stuffed in all of our newspapers or subscribe online at www. presspubs.com. Thank you for your consideration.

S ebastian Studier is a contributing writer at Press Publications.

Movers & Shakers Dean Ridings

Americans have more media options than ever. We are inundated with stories, memes, videos and promotions 24 hours a day. Most of us are on social media, which is built to provide an endless feed of content to keep us glued to our screens. And unfortunately, misinformation is prevalent and much of that content isn’t factchecked, verified or professionally produced. The result is that we’re not always shown what we need to know, or the information that is most likely to impact our lives. That’s where local newspapers come in. Your local newspaper takes a different approach.

National Newspaper Week is a good opportunity to recognize the commitment that local newspapers make to the communities they serve. Your local newspaper is just that – local. It hires reporters who are trained to provide reliable information about the issues that matter most. Whether it’s the latest happening from the local school board, changes in real estate zoning, high school football scores or a review of that new restaurant you’ve been wanting to try, newspapers deliver what’s

• 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 651407-1200 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.”

important to you.

Your local newspaper is far more than just print. In the everchanging media landscape, local newspapers have evolved to true multi-channel content providers. From websites to apps, emails, newsletters, video and podcasts, local newspapers are delivering news in innovative ways. As a reader, you get to choose when and where to get the news you need, and no matter the method, can always be assured what you’re reading is credible and reliable. A lthough the format or device readers use to connect with their local newspaper might vary, it’s clear that newspapers are relied on as the source for local news. A recent national study conducted by the independent research firm Coda Ventures shows that 79% of Americans use local newspapers to stay informed about their communities and depend on them to feel connected and to decide where they stand on local issues and to find places and things to do. Further, six out of 10 American adults use newspaper advertising to help them decide what brands, products and local services to buy. It’s clear that local newspapers are vital to healthy communities.

I n spite of the new ways to connect with your local newspaper, it’s true that the newspaper industry is facing significant challenges. Rising costs, national competitors and the impact of Big Tech companies using newspapers’

content without compensation have all impacted your local newspaper. Now, more than ever, we need their commitment to journalism’s core values. As we recognize National Newspaper Week, let’s focus on the vital role that newspapers play, and consider how we can support them. Subscribing or advertising in your local newspaper not only supports the newspaper but is also an investment in your community.

On a national level, the Community News and Small Business Support Act (HR 4756) has recently been introduced in Congress. This bill would provide local newspapers with financial support for their newsroom employees, and would go a long way to providing your newspaper with support for the reporters and photographers that are sorely needed. Encourage your members of Congress to support this bill!

W hether you access the content from your local newspaper in print or online, remember that it is produced for you. And behind the articles, columns, and images your newspaper produces is a team of local residents who are committed to making your community stronger! Join me in thanking your local newspaper – during National Newspaper Week – for the good work it does to keep your community informed.

D ean Ridings is the CEO of America’s Newspapers.

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.

This week, and every week, newspapers are for you

Great time to have a homecoming

Homecoming: the return of a group of people usually on a special occasion to a place formerly frequented or regarded as home. Did you attend homecoming at your high school or university this fall?

Pastor’s Ponderings

Toni Schwabe

October is a month of gathering with alumni to their old stamping grounds. Lots of conversations, hugs, laughter, storytelling. You see how people have changed, gotten older, new careers, weddings, children. You even hear of love stories that a fanned into flame after years of distance. Homecomings are exciting times.

We have celebrated a couple of “homecoming” events at our church, Rice Creek Covenant, in the past few years. It was so great to see friends from the past and reconnect. To hear

how people are doing after a move, or graduation or even sadly after the loss of a loved one.

M aybe this is the time that you experience homecoming at the church you attended pre-Co-Vid or maybe decide to return to church in general.

T he Bible, the word of God to us, tells us to gather to encourage one another.

A nd let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:25

Do you need some encouragement? I just attended a Christian retreat for women out in the Seattle area. I had a “homecoming” with women I have known for decades but rarely see. So much has changed in lives in those many years and not all good. There were some difficult stories of death, health struggles, trouble with kids, loss of jobs, retirement adjustments. So many opportunities to encourage one another.

People are the same everywhere. We all experience tough stuff and all are in need of some encouragement. What better place than a church community? A place where God is the center of the message, Jesus is presented as the one who loves and gives comfort and peace, and the Holy Spirit is able to work in people to bring strength when we feel alone. A church community can offer real encouragement that is life changing and life giving, not just kind words that are momentarily fine but not for the long haul.

T his Sunday would be a great time to have a homecoming. You will be welcomed home to a place you might have formerly frequented or to a new community and hopefully you will leave feeling encouraged.

Toni Schwabe is the pastor at Rice Creek Covenant Church in Lino Lakes.

BEST PLACE TO WORK: Lino Lakes, Hugo businesses are winners

Union, while Associated Eye Care took top spot in The Citizen contest.

Heartland Credit Union

Heartland Credit Union’s history dates back to 1939, but the name change didn’t come about until 1996 when the credit union merged with Land O’ Lakes Credit Union. Today, Heartland Credit Union (HCU) has branch locations in Hugo, Inver Grove Heights, New Prague and Arden Hills (for Land O’Lakes employees/retirees). The Hugo location, which has five employees, opened its doors in February 2021.

Hugo resident and Branch Manager Amanda Barghini has worked for HCU for 3 1/2 years, but she has been in the financial industry for 20 years. Although she hasn’t been with HCU for very long, she says it’s a great place to work.

“From our leadership, it trickles down to create the culture. The culture is very inclusive and empowering,” she explained. “We are a small enough organization where everyone knows each other … Everybody is committed to the same goal, and it shows in our culture.”

She likes how HCU still has that “small-town” feel while still being able to provide all the same services as a large financial institution. “We are able to partner with people in ways that feel small-town, but still has a lot of big momentum behind it,” Barghini said.

She also enjoys working for a company that cares about its employees as well as the community. Barghini said that in addition to providing a good worklife balance, HCU gives back to the communities it serves by requiring employees to volunteer for at least eight hours a year.

“There is a strong connection between what we do here in the office and what we do out in the world and trying to make sure that we are connecting with as many people as we can,” she said.

Financial Service Officer Jennifer Madison has worked at HCU for 18 years. Before transferring to the Hugo branch, she worked in Inver Grove Heights and Arden Hills. She loves her job so much that she is willing to commute almost an hour every day from Braham.

She says that one of the reasons she’s enjoyed her job at HCU is the other employees, including upper management. “They are very supportive and they want to see you succeed,” she said. Madison said she also enjoys all the relationships she has built with members throughout the years.

She explained that upper management is always willing to step in when they are short-staffed, and will help out where they can. “At another credit union I worked for years ago, the CEO just sat in his office … we were below him,” she said.

AT HCU, Madison said that everyone is supportive. “It feels like a family away from your family,” she noted.

Financial Services Officer Kim Brockman has worked at HCU for about a year and a half, but she’s been in the industry for 15 years.

“My co-workers and management are really nothing I’ve experienced before. There is a lot of care for us and our members,” she said. “It is a different feel, it is very welcoming.”

The thing that sets HCU apart from other institutions is the level of service, she explained. “The level of service we can provide, and the care that we put into things makes a big difference.”

Associated Eye Care

For over 50 years, Associated Eye Care (AEC) has been committed to providing care for patients of all ages. Today, AEC has six locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin, including: Lino Lakes, Stillwater, Woodbury, Hudson, New Richmond and Baldwin.

Before opening its new location in Lino Lakes, the clinic was located about a block down the road in Hugo; before that, it was located in Forest Lake.

Physician David Park, a resident of North Oaks, joined AEC 26 years ago. After finishing his residency at the University of Minnesota, he had a few options for employment in the Twin Cities but was attracted to AEC’s patient-driven approach.

“I was impressed with the diligence and integrity that was evident with each patient encounter.

When I met the rest of group during

the interview process, it was pretty clear that it’s not just lip service to say ‘put patient care first’; it was fairly clear that this was a core value for the group,” he recalled. “I feel blessed, and I love my job. I enjoy coming to a workplace that shares my core values of how we treat patients. I do believe that how we treat our patients trickles down to how we treat our employees and have a culture satisfying not just for the physicians but for everyone.”

He says AEC has never shied away from keeping up with cutting-edge technology.

“Ophthalmology is likely one of the most technology-dependent surgical subspecialties in medicine, so having a commitment to staying on the cutting edge of advancements is really important, but it is not necessarily easy or cheap,” Park said. “Starting as a young physician to now being one of the senior partners, it is satisfying to see how much the practice has grown and yet we still strive for high-tech, hightouch patient care with each person.”

In the end, Park says, it’s all about hiring the right people.

Do you think you are employed at the best place to work? If so, be sure to send in a nomination for next year’s Best of the Press contest and don’t forget to vote daily.

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

“Because we’re in this together.”

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

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• Officers responded to a report of a single-vehicle property damage crash on I-35E near Main Street Sept. 19. The adult female driver showed signs of impairment and was subsequently arrested for DWI and booked into jail.

• An officer received a phone call fraud report from a resident in the 600 block of Andall Street Sept. 19. The officer spoke with the victim, who had been scammed out of a significant amount of money. The case is under investigation.

• Officers responded to a report of a possible personal injury accident with an unconscious driver near James Street and Lake Drive Sept. 19. Officers arrived and determined the driver to be intoxicated, but uninjured. The male was booked into jail for third-degree DWI refusal, fourth-degree DWI and possession of an open bottle.

• An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for illegal driving conduct in the 8200 block of 20th Avenue Sept. 19. The male driver was arrested for third-degree DWI and on an outstanding warrant from

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS

Sheriff’s Office ‘swears in’ many

another county.

• An officer took a report of damage to property in the 7100 block of Second Avenue Sept. 20. The officer documented the incident; the investigation is ongoing.

• An officer took a report of a theft of gasoline from a business in the 7000 block of 21st Avenue South Sept. 21. The incident is under investigation.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for speeding and illegal driving conduct on I-35E near 80th Street Sept. 22. The adult male driver was arrested and booked into jail for fourthdegree DWI, alcohol content of 0.08 or more within two hours, and possession of a controlled substance. An officer responded to a delayed report of a suspicious person at a business in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road Sept. 23. The officer sent a photo of the suspicious person to local agencies in an attempt to identify them. An officer responded to a residence on a report of an injured or sick fox in a yard in the 300 block of Elm Street Sept. 24. The fox ran away when the officer approached. .

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• Officers responded to a fight involving two adult females in the 3900 block of Restwood Road in Lexington Sept. 20. Officers mediated the conflict.

• An officer responded to the 1700 block of Meadow Lane in Centerville Sept. 20 for an assault. One individual was arrested.

• Police arrested an adult female on an outstanding warrant on Oak Leaf Lane in Circle Pines Sept. 21. Police also recovered a stolen vehicle.

• Officers received a phone call regarding property damage in the 3900 block of Restwood Road in Lexington Sept. 21.

• Police took a report of theft from motor vehicle in the 4000 block of Flowerfield Road in Lexington Sept. 21.

• Suspicious activity was reported in the 50 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines Sept. 22.

• Officers took a threat report in the 1700 block of Peltier Lake Drive in Centerville Sept. 22.

• Police conducted a traffic stop near Lexington Avenue and Woodland

documents, Charles Edward Fields, 44, was the owner and operator of a series of companies through which he pitched employment opportunities to prospective workers throughout the United States. The employment opportunities that Fields purported to provide were through his businesses, some of which included HOMESoft Systems Incorporated, WaterTek Marketing Corporation, Water Innovations Group Inc., W I G Holdings Corporation, Mile High H20 Corporation, and the NEW H20.

Road in Circle Pines Sept. 23. The parents were advised of the juvenile occupants.

• An officer took a report of theft from motor vehicle in the 9200 block of Syndicate Avenue in Lexington Sept. 23. Another resident in the same block reported that someone had gone through his vehicles in the driveway overnight. He was not sure if anything was missing, however.

• Officers responded to the 1900 block of Main Street in Centerville Sept. 24 on a report of counterfeit currency.

• An officer initiated a traffic stop near Dupre Road and Mallard Way in Centerville Sept. 24 after the driver failed to stop at a stop sign and didn’t have any rear lights.

• An officer responded to the 40 block of Center Road in Circle Pines Sept. 25 for a property damage accident. A woman advised that she struck a mailbox while driving northbound on Center Road. The estimated damage is $900.

• A suspicious vehicle was reported near Dupre Road and Beaver Pond Road in Centerville Sept. 25.

• A theft was reported in the 2000 block of Main Street in Centerville Sept. 25.

CONTRIBUTED

The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office recently hosted a swearing-in ceremony recognizing and welcoming members of its office who have been promoted or hired on to the roles of chief deputy, lieutenant, detective, deputy and detention deputy.

Blaine business owner pleads guilty in $600,000 scheme

A Blaine man has pleaded guilty to wire fraud after devising an employment opportunity scheme to defraud hundreds of jobseekers out of approximately $600,000. According to court

Fields claimed that after job applicants paid him an upfront deposit of approximately $3,000 to $5,000, he would hire them as sales contractors to sell products nationwide to the public, primarily home security or water filtration systems. As part of the scheme, Fields also misrepresented his affiliation with, and his authority to act on behalf of, Company A, a longstanding international company that designs and distributes various models of water machines and filtration systems.

According to court documents, Fields routinely posted nationwide online employment advertisements promising job seekers training, sales leads and $6,000 in guaranteed monthly profit. Despite paying Fields the required upfront deposit, many of his victims never received the product or the training that they paid for as a condition of their employment. In reality, the employment opportunities never materialized as promised by Fields. In addition, Fields misrepresented to job applicants that their deposits would be securely held in escrow and subsequently refunded to them upon request. However, rather than provide victims

with the promised equipment or employment opportunities, Fields instead used much of the victims’ funds for his own personal use and benefit or to refund some victims using other victims’ money. In order to conceal his fraud and stave off scrutiny, Fields lulled his victims with bogus excuses as to why he was unable to fulfill his promises or return their funds. In total, Fields defrauded at least 250 victims of at least $600,000.  Fields pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.

United States Attorney’s Office 6 injured after school bus crash

The Lino Lakes Public Safety Department responded to crash at 2:57 p.m. involving three school buses and a pick-up truck on Elm Street between Lakeview Drive and Sunset Avenue Sept. 28.

There were six injuries of occupants of the school buses. One of injured parties was transported to the hospital via ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries and the five other injured parties were released to parents at the scene.

The driver of the pick-up truck reported minor injuries but was not transported via ambulance from the scene.

The Minnesota State Patrol Commercial Vehicle Inspection Division has been requested to inspect the commercial vehicles (school buses) that were involved in this incident. Police staff will review all available information as part of this on-going investigation.

NO

FEES. NO

Pictured in the back row (from left) are: Sheriff Brad Wise, Lieutenant Anthony Mendoza, Deputy Patrick Knight and Detention Deputy Alex Nelson. In the front row (from left) are: Detective Haley Hoefs, Deputy Megan Sullivan, Deputy Spencer Rawlinson, Deputy Brandon Eldien and Chief Deputy Bill Jacobson.

LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• The Knights of Columbus will conduct a raffle at St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church Jan. 6.

• The city continues to hire part-time staff for the Rookery Activity Center. Most recently, the council approved the hiring of: one lifeguard, seven guest services representatives, five recreation attendants and one custodial worker.

The city’s preliminary 2023 tax levy (collectible 2024) has been set at the maximum. That means that it may come down, but it cannot go up. The preliminary 2023/2024 tax levy of $14,120,928 represents a $1,227,013 increase (9.5%) over the 2022/2023 tax levy. The levy is estimated to result in a city tax rate of 36.007% for 2024, an increase from the 2023 tax rate of 34.974%.

The city will hold its truth-intaxation public hearing at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 11.

• The city will cancel its 2023/2024 debt service tax levy for general obligation capital note, series 2016A. In February 2016, the council authorized the issuance of a capital note payable to the city of Circle Pines to finance Lino Lakes’ share of the cost of capital equipment to be used by the North Metro Telecommunications Commission (NMTC). At the time of issuance, an annual tax levy was included in the bond documents for the payment of future debt service. It was fully anticipated that the annual debt service would be satisfied by collection of fee revenues from NMTC, and that the tax levy would be evaluated and canceled, if possible, on an annual basis. Following an analysis of the resources available for payment of the ensuing year debt service,

Finance Director Hannah Lynch says adequate resources are available, and recommended that the council cancel the debt service tax levy.

• The city’s newest parks maintenance worker is Travis Powers. Powers has been working as a transportation specialist at the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) for almost 10 years. Before that, he worked as a parks seasonal maintenance worker for the city of Lino Lakes for eight years. His hourly rate of pay will be $33, Step 5 of the current six-step wage schedule.

Beginning Oct. 9, the police department will have a new records technician. Jody Boyd was hired to fill the vacant position. She has nine years of police record experience with the New Brighton Public Safety Department. Her hourly rate of pay will be $30.01, step 6 of the six-step wage schedule.

• Also beginning Oct. 9, the city will have a new part-time firefighter. Ryan Olson’s hourly rate of pay will be $19.36, the starting rate for parttime firefighters.

• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has

awarded the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department a grant under the Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) program to support employee wellness. The $58,036 grant requires a local match of $5,804. Public Safety Director John Swenson explained that the local match has already been included in the 2024 budget. The grant can be used for cancer screening physicals, physical trainers, fitness assessments, counseling, nutrition services, cardiovascular screening, aerobic instructors, periodic physical exams/health screenings, Check up From the Neck up, and more. Once again, the city of Lino Lakes will act as the fiscal administrator of the Anoka County Toward Zero Deaths (TZD) program for 2024. TZD is a statewide program that uses a collaborative approach of education, enforcement, engineering and emergency medical services to work toward the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries on Minnesota roadways to zero.

Members of the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department partner with members of other law enforcement agencies within Anoka County to provide high-visibility enforcement efforts, which focus on impaired driving, speed violations, distracted driving and seatbelt violations. The

costs associated with providing Lino Lakes Police Officers to work these high-visibility enforcement activities are reimbursed through the TZD grant, awarded by the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety (OTS).

As the fiscal administrator, Lino Lakes will report on grant progress to the OTS and distribute reimbursement funds to partner agencies after it receives the funds from the OTS. Lino Lakes is beginning its third year of serving as the administrator of the grant. The grant cycle runs from October 2023 through September 2024.

• DISH Wireless LLC has expressed an interest in locating antenna facilities on the city’s water tower located at 7470 Fourth Ave. DISH Wireless proposes to lease space for the installation of antennas and equipment. Antennas will be installed on the rail at the top of tower No. 1 and transmission lines will run from the top rail to the newly acquired elevated platform, where DISH Wireless will lease approximately 47 square feet of the 240 square feet of elevated space on the platform inside tower No. 1. The proposed agreement is for an initial five-year term and can be extended for an additional four terms of five years each. DISH Wireless will pay the city $2,500 per month.

Monthly rent will increase by 7.5% effective upon the anniversary of the commencement date during the following years: 2028, 2033, 2038, 2043 and 2048.

The city plans to sell 1.14 acres of land to TS Miller Co (Rice Industries) to facilitate its expansion. (See business brief for more information).

Shannon Granholm

The preliminary 2023/2024 tax levy of $14,120,928 represents a 9.5% increase over the 2022/2023 tax levy.

For nearly four decades now, the U.S. has recognized October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time annually devoted to educating everyone about breast cancer — including metastatic breast cancer (MBC) — and the importance of early detection and access to timely, high-quality care.

One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Chances are, you know at least one person who has been personally affected by breast cancer.

But there is hope. When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%. Advances in early detection and treatment methods have significantly increased breast cancer survival rates in recent years, and there are currently over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

No matter who you are or where you live, breast cancer may touch your life. It’s necessary to understand the warning signs of breast cancer, your risk of breast cancer and what’s normal for you so you can take action if there are any changes in your breasts or underarm areas.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include:

• A breast lump or thickening that

feels different from the surrounding tissue

• Change in the size, shape or appearance of a breast

• Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling

• A newly inverted nipple

• Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin

•Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

If you find a lump or other change in your breast — even if a recent mammogram was normal — make an appointment with your doctor for prompt evaluation.

Doctors know that breast cancer

occurs when some breast cells begin to grow abnormally. These cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells do and continue to accumulate, forming a lump or mass. Cells may spread (metastasize) through your breast to your lymph nodes or to other parts of your body.

Breast cancer most often begins with cells in the milk-producing ducts (invasive ductal carcinoma). Breast cancer may also begin in the glandular tissue called lobules (invasive lobular carcinoma) or in other cells or tissue within the breast.

Researchers have identified hormonal, lifestyle and environmental factors that may increase your risk of breast cancer. But it's not clear why some people who have no risk factors develop cancer, yet other people with risk factors never do.

It's likely that breast cancer is caused by a complex interaction of your genetic makeup and your environment. Doctors estimate that about 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are linked to gene mutations passed through generations of a family.

A number of inherited mutated genes that can increase the likelihood of breast cancer have been identified. The most well-known are breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2), both of which significantly increase the risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer or other cancers, your doctor may recommend a blood test to help identify specific mutations in BRCA or other genes that are being passed through your family.

Consider asking your doctor for a referral to a genetic counselor, who can review your family health history. A genetic counselor can also discuss the benefits, risks and limitations of genetic testing to assist you with shared decision-making.

This information was found on www.nationalbreastcancer.org, www. mayoclinic.org and www.komen.org.

women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

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NOW HIRING! ENTRY LEVEL GRAPHIC DESIGNER

JOB DESCRIPTION:

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.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Comfortable in Adobe InDesign Mac based and cloud, with the minor use of Photoshop and Illustrator

- Build ads to customer specs, and assist the sales team with new ads for potential clients - Follow a strict schedule with overlapping deadlines -Work with editors to produce a vibrant product.

JOB DETAILS:

- 12-25 hours per week

- M-F 7:55 - 5:30 varies by season Email resume to: artmanager@presspubs.com

J o i n O u r Te a m ! Hiring PT assembly workers in White Bear Lake at Snuggle Me Organic. Mon-Fri. Flexible Hrs; Send Resume to: becky.k@makeheroes.co

Now Hiring

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

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

Desired Skills & Experience:

High school diploma required.

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

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

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

NOW HIRING

ACCOUNTING CLERK / ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT POSITION

White Bear Township is accepting applications for an Accounting Clerk / Administrative Assistant position in the Finance Department. General accounting, administrative duties and light reception are the cornerstones of the position. Other duties include processing accounts payable and accounts receivable, cash receipts, utility billing, and assisting with greeting customers, answering phones, filing, copying, word processing, assisting the general public and contractors with applications, permits, and inspections. Must have good analytical skills, ability to operate office equipment and have knowledge of computer operations and programs including Word, Outlook and Excel. Must have commitment to serve public, positive attitude, demonstrate initiative and have the ability to collaborate with others, work independently and take on new tasks. Salary range from $28.38/ hour or higher DOQ plus an excellent benefits package.

For more information and to apply; visit the Employment Opportunities section of the Town’s website: www.whitebeartownship.org. Send Resume and Town application by October 12, 2023.

Retirement Association) benefits. For more information, please see the full job posting at cityofbirchwood.com.

Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning

Once a smoke alarm sounds you may have as little as one or two minutes to escape safely from your home. A closed door may slo w t he spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes. Draw a floor plan of your h ome, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors and select a location for everyone to meet once outside.

Fire Chief Erik Edwards Asst Fire Chief Mike Mohler

1st Lieutenant Jeffery Geiger

Firefighter Mark Kurth

Firefighter Jimmy Earley

Firefighter Heidi Haakenson

2nd Lieutenant Brian Mohler

Firefighter Joe Morrison

Firefighter Onna Belter

Firefighter Cally Jacobson Firefighter David Hults Firefighter Oscar Ogenga

Firefighter Keith Harris

Firefighter John Jackson Firefighter Zach O’Connell Firefighter Diego Rivera

Cougar pride

Another Homecoming is in the books. Centennial showed off its Cougar pride during Homecoming festivities, including the annual parade, football game and dance.

Cougars take upper hand in girls soccer race

as the lone unbeaten in the conference last week.

The No. 7 ranked Cougars blanked No. 5 Blaine 2-0 Tuesday in Blaine and Spring Lake Park 4-0 on Thursday at home. The Cougars are 9-1-1 overall with nine straight wins, allowing just four goals in that span.

In the NWSC, the Cougars are 9-0 with two matches left. Blaine has finished conference play 10-1. Andover is 6-1-2 and SLP is 5-2-3. Centennial faced Andover at home Monday and will finish at TotinoGrace on Wednesday.

Against Blaine, Isabella Sipe got the Cougars on the board in the 39th minute, assisted by Marisa Frost. Addison Van Zee blasted a 25-yard shot just under the bar in the second half. Jordan Metz made 11 saves.

BOYS SOCCER

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Centennial girls soccer scuttled two of their top rivals in the Northwest Suburban and emerged

Van Zee booted two more goals against Spring Lake Park. Frost and Nora Helvig also scored. Frost made two assists and Helvig one. Metz made eight saves in the Cougars’ fifth shutout of the season.

Centennial lost at Blaine 3-1 in a duel of two of leading Northwest Suburban teams last Tuesday, then tied Spring Lake Park 4-4 at home Thursday. Heading into the final week, Maple Grove has wrapped up the championship with an 11-0 mark. Blaine is 8-2-1, Centennial 6-2-3 and Champlin Park 6-3-1 for the top four spots among 14 teams. Noah Berg had the goal against Blaine. Bengal goalie Griffin Dunigan stopped nine of 10 shots. (Cougar scoring against SLP was not available at press time.)

Cougars clip Osseo 35-0; game halted at half

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Centennial had a 35-0 halftime lead over Osseo at home Friday night when the game was halted. An anticipated storm with rain and lightning arrived at the break and the teams did not go back on the field. The game was declared official.

“Our administration did a great job with preparing both teams on the weather. Both teams mutually agreed on ending the game,” said Mike Diggins, who has coached in the program for 33 yards and said he never had a game cut short before.

Dylan Cummings, senior quarterback, ran for two touchdowns, gaining 43 yards in five carries while complet-

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Brol Scherman

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Daylen Cummings

Centennial Lacrosse

Centennial football

ing four of five passes for 113 yards. Maverick Harper also had two touchdown runs and totaled 80 yards in 11 carries. Tim Ball scored the other touchdown after blocking a punt. Josh Lee caught three passes for 69 yards and Ty Burgoon one for 44.

The Cougars are 4-1 and Osseo is 0-5. Centennial will play at Anoka (4-1) next Friday.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Centennial placed first among 16 teams in the Osseo Invitational on Thursday at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. The top three teams were Centennial with 53, Maple Grove 104, and Belle Plaine 131. Kylie Nelson placed second in 19:14 and Abby Smith sixth in 19:39. Also in the Cougar top five were Julia Zalewski, 17th in 20:43; Miranda Sawvel, 18th in 20:51; and Annelise Offerdahl, 21st in 20:51, among 137 runners. The individual winner was Caitlyn Osanai of Armstrong In 19:00.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY

Centennial placed ninth of 22 teams in the Osseo Invitational on Thursday at Elm Creek Park in Maple Grove. Blaine won by a wide margin, led by individual champion River Santiago in 15:38. For the Cougars, Alex Persing was 26th in 17:37, Cody Nelson 46th in 18:06, Jacob Podratz 53rd in 18:15, Talen Greeson 62nd in 18:30 and Mikey Aska 65th in 18:37 among 145 runners.

VOLLEYBALL

Centennial lost its lone match last week as Andover fended off the Cougars 25-13, 26-24, 16-25, 25-22. The Cougars are 5-9. Andover is 7-11. Bruce Strand

Daylen Cummings has spearheaded the Centennial football offense for three seasons as a dynamic running quarterback. “He runs the veer offense to perfection,” coach Mike Diggins said. “He also throws the ball well, so if a defense overplays our run game, he can hurt you deep.” Cummings, a six-foot, 190-pound senior who also plays safety, has rolled out 46 times for 281 yards and seven touchdowns for the Cougars (4-1) this year. His career totals are 1,219 yards and 20 TD’s on 275 rushes, and 93for-189 passing for 1,325 yards and six touchdowns. The Cougars are 16-9 in his 25 starts and ranked in the top ten all three years.

Brol Scherman, Centennial junior lacrosse standout, has netted 22 goals and provided seven assists for the Cougars (4-2) while notching 17 ground balls (a change of possession statistic). Scherman was all-conference as a sophomore with 36 goals and 28 assists. The recruiting website ILMCA said of him: “Endto-end playmaking machine with striking confidence both on and off the field. Versatile offensive threat with strong outside shooting and crease finishing skills. Magnetic team leader and positive influencer.”

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BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED

Addison Van Zee, Isabella Sipe and Katelyn Hamski embraced after Van Zee scored against Blaine.

JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED

Josh Lee (19) of the Cougars broke up a pass to Osseo’s Trey Thomas.

JON NAMYST CONTRIBUTED

Keaten Frase advanced the ball at full gallop against Blaine.

COUNCIL SNIPPETS

A reminder to residents that early voting is now underway. Voters can visit City Hall in between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday (during business hours). Voters can also vote early by mail.

For more information, visit www.sos.state.mn.us/ elections-voting.

• The Utilities Commission has declined to take action regarding a sewer issue on Joe Thilgen’s property along East Road. The conflict stems back to the city’s 2018 street and utility project. Thilgen alleges that the sewer system that was installed is faulty and he now has tree roots growing within a section of the pipe that has caused a backup.

According to City Engineer Eric Eckman, the tree in question was going to be removed as part of the project, but was left in place at request of Mr. Thilgen.

City Administrator Patrick Antonen explained that the commission decided not to take action at this time. The investigation continues.

• Before the snow flies, Northern Technologies International Corp. (NTIC) plans to have its two buildings, located along Woodland Road, connected via an indoor tunnel. Antonen explained that back in 2005-2006 when the buildings were sold, the connection between the two buildings was demolished, but now NTIC wants to put the connection back in to allow forklifts to transport materials between the manufacturing building and the storage building.

The connection could not proceed until the business had an easement agreement in place dealing with the Met Council’s sewer interceptor pipe, which lies beneath the construction area. If the Met Council ever needs to access the pipe for repairs, according to the agreement NTIC will be responsible for repairs to the connection between the buildings.

• Residents who have not paid their utility bills (storm sewer, sanitary sewer and water charges as well as garbage, refuse and recycling charges) may want to attend a public hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10. After that hearing, any bills that have not been paid will be certified to the county auditor for collection with property taxes. As of last week, the total unpaid utilities amounted to $61,627. Antonen says that on average, the city certifies between $30,000 and $40,000 in delinquent utility bills every year; it’s likely that number will likely come down a bit before it’s certified to the county.

A hearing will also be held Oct. 10 for delinquent city accounts. Three properties are set to be charged a total of $4,300.

• The proposed levy for 2024 has been set at the maximum, meaning it can be reduced before final council approval, but it cannot increase. (See full story for more information.)

• The city will once again request Select Committee on

Recycling and the Environment (SCORE) funds from Anoka County for its recycling efforts. Circle Pines will request $54,154 for 2024.

• For the first time in 15 years, the salaries of the mayor and council members will increase. Beginning Jan. 1, 2024, the mayor and City Council members will earn a larger stipend for their service. The annual salary of the mayor will increase from $4,900 to $6,000 and the salary of the council members will go from $3,900 to $5,000. The increase will bring the city closer to what other neighboring cities pay their mayor and council. Circle Pines’ stipends still remain lower than stipends provided by Centerville and Lexington.

• The council has decided to implement an ordinance relating to the use of cannabis. The ordinance relies heavily on what is allowed via state statute, which is also the same ordinance that the city of Centerville plans to follow. Cannabis (in any form) will be allowed at private residences, on private property or in establishments or at events where licensed. However, cannabis in any form is prohibited in public spaces.

Mayor Dave Bartholomay said he did receive one inquiry from a woman who uses cannabis for medical purposes who was wondering if the ordinance would still apply to her situation. Antonen explained that there are clear exceptions in the ordinance for medical marijuana.

Council Member Matt Percy voted against the ordinance. “I think that this is a solution that is looking for a problem right now. We haven’t had any issues with this yet,” he said. “Personally, I think we should see how it plays out.”

City Council Member Dean Goldberg said he supported the ordinance because it would align Circle Pines with the other neighboring cities, but he thought it could be taken further. “Ideally, I would have preferred that the city do what is best for the city, which is to prohibit any smoking. It is a public health issue,” he said.

He suggested that the city consider adding a question to its city survey this winter that asks residents how they would feel about a total smoking ban within the city.

• Election judges have been set for the Nov. 7 election. Precinct 1 will have 10 election judges and Precinct 2 will have 14 judges.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm