Casting a light on bullying and harassment in high school
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Sticks and stones may break one’s bones, but words and actions still have the power to hurt just as much.
October is Bullying Awareness Month, a crucial opportunity to raise awareness of bullying nationwide.
Press Publications spoke to different high school student counselors and principals to discuss the short and long-term effects of bullying and what steps they and students can take to tackle the problem.
According to White Bear Lake Area High School Counselor Grace White, both short and
City of Lexington grapples with settlement fallout
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LEXINGTON — This summer, the city of Lexington was ordered to pay $110,000 to two former firefighters after reaching a settlement agreement. That topic has again come up after City Council Member Kim DeVries requested it be added to last week’s meeting agenda.
In October 2023 former firefighters Mindy Fiester and Todd Messer filed a lawsuit against the city of Lexington. (See “Lexington to pay $110K to former firefighters” June 25, 2024.)
Mayor Gary Grote requested the discussion item be removed from the agenda per City Attorney Kurt Glaser’s recommendation.
Glaser explained that he met with the council before the meeting to “lay out the ground rules for confidentiality under the Minnesota Data Practices Act.
“The topic that is before the council has the possibility of involving some confidential information,” he said. “Part of my job is to reduce legal risk for the city and to give you legal guidance on all matters. So, is this subject kind of on the edge of confidential issues? Yes, and so that makes it somewhat worrisome for a city attorney because I want to reduce risk.”
Glaser said if the council did decide to move forward with discussing the item, they knew the ground rules and he asked them to “make the right
long-term effects of bullying can affect a student’s sense of safety and selfworth. “The short-term effects on students can play out where they feel like they don’t belong in our school or among their peers,” said White. “This can cause adverse mental health issues and impact how they show up in classes and social
circles.” The same effects are also felt in the longterm as well: “Long-term bullying can negatively impact the way a student shows up at school and within the community, including their self-esteem and confidence.”
According to the district’s School
“This isn’t something that just goes away.”
Tom Bruening Centennial High School Principal
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Calling all ghouls, goblins and spooks who are in the mood for some Halloween spirit! White Bear Lake’s very own Kellerman’s Event Center may have the kind of celebration you seek. The center will hold its annual costume contest/ party from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26. According to Event Manager Kristin
Cranmer, she expects the party’s vibe to be no different from what past attendees have seen. “I hope what people get out of it is that it’s the best Halloween party they’ve ever been to!” said Cranmer. “It’s always been a fun tradition that people can look forward to.” The party has been a regular fixture at the center, currently in its 13th ongoing year.
KELLERMAN’S EVENT CENTER | CONTRIBUTED
SEE BULLYING, PAGE 7
•Public Safety Director John Swenson recognizes Officer Katie Kraemer and firefighters Brian Gustafson, Jon Stalker and Vincent Kasprowicz for recent promotions. Kraemer, who has been with the department since 2015, was promoted to sergeant; Gustafson and Stalker, who have both been with the department since 2017, were promoted to district chief positions (one at each fire station); and Kasprowicz, who has been with the department since 2019, was promoted to fire lieutenant.
•Resident Jeff Johnson urges residents who have previously spoken to the council during open mike to double-check the meeting minutes on the city’s website. “Please get the facts straight on what I said before entering them into the meeting minutes,” he said. “Why were my words changed to completely undermine what I was saying? I highly recommend that anyone who has spoken here proofreads what has been recorded in the city records.”
•Resident Sam Bennett is hoping the city will make some changes to the roadway design of Sunset Avenue. He recommended the city consider two driving lanes, one parking lane and one lane for a multiuse pathway. “The roadway was paved to be a four-lane road,” he said.
•Marissa Ertel is the city’s new office specialist within the Community Development Department. Ertel’s appointment fills a vacancy that was created in August. Her hourly rate of pay will be $24.78, the starting
step of a six-step wage scale.
The city has also hired Thomas Hoffman to fill the environmental coordinator position within the department that has also been vacant since August.
Hoffman will start Oct. 28, and his hourly rate of pay will be $45.19, step five of a six-step scale.
•In 2025 the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department will once again serve as the fiscal administrator of the Anoka County Toward Zero Death (TZD) program. 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 from the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department work together with members of other law enforcement agencies within Anoka County to provide high-visibility enforcement efforts throughout Anoka County, focusing on impaired driving, speed violations, distracted driving and seatbelt violations.
The grant is awarded by the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). As the fiscal administrator, the city of Lino Lakes reports on grant progress to the OTS and distributes reimbursement funds to partner agencies after they are received.
Lino Lakes is beginning its fourth year as the administrator of the grant. The grant, which totals $306,600, will be used from this October through September 2025.
•Three properties will be assessed $205 each for weed
abatement. Community Development Director Michael Grochala explained that City Code section 904 establishes weeds or grass growing more than 8 inches in height to be a public nuisance. Property owners in violation of this requirement are notified and provided an opportunity to cure the nuisance. If the violation is not addressed within a specified period, city staff and/or private contractors are directed to abate the nuisance. The cost of abatement is charged to the property owner. If the property owner fails to pay the costs incurred, the city may certify the charges against the property for collection with property taxes as a special assessment.
•One property owner on Lake Drive ($48,272) and two property owners on West Shadow Lake Drive ($7,429 each) will be assessed approximately $63,130 for the connection to city utilities. The developer of the Jansen Addition will also be assessed $75,483 for the connection to city utilities.
•The city has received four bids for the 2024 surface water management project at City Hall. The project will address erosion and drainage issues behind City Hall. The council will move forward with the low bidder, Dimke Excavating, for $47,791. City Engineer Diane Hankee explained the project will be completed by Nov. 8.
•The council has authorized WSB to prepare plans and specifications for the 2025 street rehabilitation project for a total not-to-exceed amount of $74,400. The project is proposed to in-
clude approximately 1.25 miles of mill and overlay on Coyote Trail/Court, Fawn Lane (south of Birch Street), Beaver Trail, Muskrat Run, East Shadow Lake Court, White Birch Court and Red Birch Court. A bid alternate will also be considered for Linden Lane, Red Hawk Trail and a thin overlay on Orange Street, Eva Street, Olive Street and Maple Street.
The estimated project cost is $1.2 million. The council is expected to award a construction contract in February 2025; construction will begin in the spring.
•The city will approve an amendment to a purchase agreement with Java Companies to extend the length of time and provide for the construction of Marketplace Drive. In September 2023, the city entered into a purchase agreement with Java Companies for the sale of 2.24 acres located at the corner of Lake Drive and 77th Street. Grochala said that Java Companies has been actively
working on both adjacent land acquisition and tenant contracts to develop the site. Java has submitted a land use application and plans for rezoning, preliminary plat, conditional use and site and building plan approval. The City Council is scheduled to consider the project in November.
Grochala explained that the review process may extend past the closing and extension dates provided for in the agreement. Java is requesting an amendment to allow three additional 60-day extensions to the agreement. They have also requested that the city construct the proposed road improvements (extension of Market Place Drive) within 12 months of the closing.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, at City Hall followed by a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Shannon Granholm
CONTRIBUTED
Firefighters Brian Gustafson (right) Jon Stalker (left) and Vincent Kasprowicz (not pictured) receive promotions in the public safety department.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Halloween event round up
MOUNDS VIEW FALL FESTIVAL
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24
Where: Mounds View Community Center, 5394 Edgewood Drive
Details: A bewitching night of fun, frights and festivities. Dress in your favorite Halloween attire and collect goodies and treats throughout the night.
SCARECROW TRAIL
When: Thursday, Oct. 24- Friday, Nov. 1
Where: Community Park, 641 East County Road F., Vadnais Heights
Details: Local businesses, organizations and residents will install scarecrow creations along the trail. Stop out any time to view the entries, then come back here to vote for your favorite. The trail is free and open to the public during park hours
LITTLE GOBLINS COSTUME PARTY
When: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Kids ages 8 and under can dress up in nonspooky costumes and enjoy crafts, games, treats, photo booth and outdoor activities. Registration information online.
HALLOWEEN PARTY
When: 5- 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25
Where: Community Park, 641 East County Road F., Vadnais Heights
Details: Put on your favorite costume and join the community for a party under the lights. Costume parade through the scarecrow trail, free games and treat bags will be provided.
CANDY CRAWL
When: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake Details: Family-friendly trick-or-treating event at downtown businesses.
BOO BASH
When: 3-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: McCullough Park, 955 County Road I., Shoreview
Details: Enjoy trick-or-treating, a spooky trail walk, music, bonfire with build your own s’mores and a photo station. Registration required. Contact: shoreviewmn.gov/parks-rec
SCARE IN WHITE BEAR
When: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: Memorial Beach, 4958 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Family-friendly 5K race on a torch-lit path along White Bear Lake. Costumes encouraged. Kid’s fun run at 6 p.m. Halloweenie roast, kids party, and costume contest for people and dogs follows. Registration and details online.
Contact: mmraces.com/scare-in-white-bear
TRUNK-OR-TREAT/TOUCH A TRUCK
When: 9:30- 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
DEA National Takeback:
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) National Takeback Day is Saturday, Oct. 26. Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects the DEA’s commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction from ever starting. On that day, police departments all across the country will host collection events. Check with your local law enforcement agency for more details. On the DEA website, there is also a “collection site locator” tool that allows people to search collection sites near them by zip code, county, city and state. Visit www.dea.gov/ takebackday for more information.
IF YOU GO:
When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: Lino Lakes Public Safety Department, 640 Town Center Parkway
Details: As autumn arrives, it’s the perfect time to tidy up your medicine cabinet. Expired or unused prescription medications pose a public safety risk. Stop by the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department to properly dispose of your unneeded prescription medications.
Where: Centerville Elementary School, 1721 Westview St.
Details: Third annual trunk-or-treat/touch a truck event following the Halloween Hustle 5K. Local businesses decorate their vehicles for Halloween and provide trinkets/candy for children and their parents.
SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS TRUNK ‘N TREAT
When: 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27
Where: Shepherd of the Hills, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview
Details: Put on your costume and join for an afternoon full of safe trunk or treats in the church parking lot. If you can, bring a free will donation to help the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf.
TRUNK-OR-TREAT
When: 4- 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 27
Where: Presbyterian Church of the Way, 3382 Lexington Ave. N., Shoreview
Details: Put on your costume and join for an afternoon full of safe trunk or treats in the church parking lot. Free to the public.
PRE-HALLOWEEN FAMILY ORGAN CONCERT
When: 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28
Where: St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi
Details: 20th annual “Tricks and Treats with the Mighty Organ” concert. The one hour performance, with added special lighting and video effects, is designed with young listeners in mind. Children are invited to come in a non-violent costume and join in a parade inside the room.
HALLOWEEN TRICK OR TREAT AT THE WATERS
When: 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30
Where: The Waters of White Bear Lake, 3820 Hoffman Road
Details: Invite friends and family. Enjoy a worry-free Halloween indoors. Open to the public.
SCARECROW CRAWL
When: Oct. 24-Oct.31
Where: Rookery Activity Center, 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes
Details: Come decorate a scarecrow for your chance to win a prize! Participants will make a scarecrow and place it along the path at The Rookery where members and visitors can vote on their favorite scarecrow. Scarecrows must be submitted for entry by 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct.24. Voting begins at 4:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 and goes through Thursday, Oct. 31. Local businesses and organizations are welcome to join.
Contact: 651-982-2468
HOWL-O-WEEN
When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Wildlife Science Center, 22830 Sunrise Road NE, Stacy
Details: It’s that time of year again when ghosts visit the wolves at the Wildlife Science Center. Don’t forget to wear costumes to the annual Howl-O-Ween celebration. Dogs are also encourage to wear their costumes too. Children can paint pumpkins, collect candy and take part in a scavenger hunt, all while being surrounded by cougars and bears and wolves. All proceeds benefit the Wildlife Science Center.
Contact: wscinfo@wildlifesciencecenter.org or (651) 464-3993
TRICK OR TREAT
When: 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 31
Where: Lynblomsten at Lino Lakes, 6070 Blanchard Blvd
Details: Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes is inviting local day cares and stay-at-home parents to come trick-ortreating with their little pumpkins, princesses, ghosts and more this Halloween! Children can fill up their candy bags with goodies provided by our residents. To participate, you must register in advance.
Contact: kolson@lyngblomsten.org
Halloween Hustle
When: 9 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: Centerville Elementary School, 1721 Westview St.
Details: Join Community Education for the 7th annual Halloween Hustle. This 5K fun run will start at Centerville Elementary, run out the trail and loop back. Bring the entire family; pets are welcome (no pets in the school). Costumes are encouraged. After the run there will be children’s activities and alumni activities.
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
Us for Mass Mass Times: Saturday at 5:00 pm Sunday at 8:30 am and 10:00 am 171 Elm Street • Lino Lakes, MN • 651-784-3015
We welcome you to worship with us Virtually and in Person Sunday 9:30 am Fellowship & refreshments following the service 7330 Lake Drive | 651-784-7667 admin@linolakescommunitychurch.com & directions (1
Here we go again
Iprayed we would never have to go through this again, but here we are.
The universe needs to give my corgi, Twinkie, a break. She is 6 going on 7 and already has had to deal with so much. If you have read my columns about her before, you likely know that when she was 10 months old, she had to have heart surgery for a genetic defect. Then about a year and a half ago, right after I had my son Royce, Twinkie had to have her left eye removed.
Shannon’s
Shenanigans
Shannon Granholm
A few weeks ago, I noticed Twinkie’s right eye looked more red than usual and had a bit more discharge than normal. I immediately started reliving every appointment we went to and the various drops/ointments we tried to no avail. I remember waking up one day and realizing that she had developed an ulcer on her eye and rushing her to the ER, where we were ultimately told, she would need to have eye removal surgery, or the ulcer would kill her if it ruptured.
So as soon as I noticed similar changes in her eye, I made an appointment with an ophthalmologist. I was hoping it was just my trauma response kicking in, but that’s not what happened.
The good news is her eye is making SOME tears, but the bad news is it’s at the MINIMUM level. The last time we went through this her eye was producing zero tears. We tried everything under the sun. Before she developed the ulcer, we were putting five eyedrops a day in her left eye twice a day. She was (and still is) such a trooper.
I’m praying the drops work this time, but they sure didn’t last time. I want to be positive, but it is so hard to be after all we have been through. Her doctor seems optimistic that this eye is far better off, but I can’t help but be worried we are headed down the same path.
I’m also angry. I keep wondering “Why Twinkie?” She has had to deal with so much in her short life. Then I wonder “Why me?” Not only does Twinkie need a break, but I need a break too. I’m still grieving the loss of my white German shepherd Frosty who would have turned 10 later this month.
I know life isn’t fair but COME ON! Is it too much to ask to just have a couple of healthy dogs who live long, happy lives?
Twinkie is my little warrior. If anyone can get through this, she can. For now, I will keep praying that this time around is different, and we don’t end up reliving the past. I will pray that Twinkie, and myself, can keep on chugging along with one eye. Fun fact about me, I’m pretty much blind in my right eye. At a young age, it was discovered that I was focusing all my vision out of one eye, rather than both. Unfortunately, I think we caught it a little too late and were never able to correct it.
But one is better than none.
Twinkie and I head back to the doctor in November to see if the drops are helping increase her tear production. Keep those positive vibes coming.
Shannon Granholm is the managing editor at Press Publications.
Twinkie’s next appointment to check up on her eye is in November.
Celebrate the change of the seasons
The contrast of the spring of 2024 to the fall of 2024 is a 180–degree turn around. We had all the rain we could ever want this spring and early summer. Everything was green and growing. August and September came with no rain to speak of and now we’re into October and moisture is a really rare commodity. The southeast states are inundated with too much moisture accompanied by violent storms. I think I prefer the drought–like conditions to losing homes and lives. I pray for all those impacted with the severe weather this autumn.
I hope you have been able get out to enjoy the apple orchards, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, Booyas and October festivals happening in our community. What a great way for us to celebrate the change of seasons with the bounty of the harvest. The Lions and American Legion and other civic
organizations are celebrating our local heroes like veterans, police, firefighters and paramedics. I am so proud to be a part of this great community. My husband and I with our son’s family are taking our last camping trip for the season on the North Shore. Roasting marshmallows and hot dogs over a crackling fire warms us as the evening closes in. The trees reds, yellows, and corals are close to the end of their peak colors. The warm colors of sunsets and sunrises reflecting off Lake Superior are fleeting yet amazing. The clear sky, the moon big and bright, millions of stars twinkling in the night reminds us that there is nothing more beautiful than God’s creation.
Centennial Community Food Shelf (CCFS) is starting sign-ups for the Thanksgiving Baskets that we give out each year. Helping those with food insecurity, to have a normal Thanksgiving meal. We are accepting sign-ups for this distribution now through Nov. 14, with distribution on Nov. 23. To sign-up you must come into the food shelf on a distribution night on Mondays and Thursdays from 4-6 p.m.
CCFS is looking for some volunteers! We are a faith-based
organization, from which most of our volunteers are derived. We have some openings on the Board of Directors that need to be filled. The president, vice-president the volunteer coordinator are areas that need to be filled with qualified personnel. Anyone interested in these openings can email the food shelf at ccfoodshelf@gmail.com for more information.
The donations for the CCFS have been down this past year, possibly due to the increase in our cost-of-living expenses. The cost of groceries has almost doubled, home, auto, health and prescriptions insurances have all gone up. This has made it hard for many families to make ends meet. That difficulty has also brought more families to our doors needing help to feed their families. We are so very grateful to the donors that have continued support us through food drives and events that bring in much needed funds and food. We would never be able to provide this service to the community without your support. Thank You, Thank You!!
Sheri Hanson is president of the Centennial Community Food Shelf Board of Directors.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
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• 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.
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• To submit a letter, email news@presspubs. com or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.
SHANNON GRANHOLM PRESS PUBLICATIONS
PAID LETTER
District 36A deserves better
There are increasing observations being made in District 36A that the DFL candidate, Janelle Calhoun. Janelle has not been seen door knocking in her district. Also, Calhoun has not been seen attending meetings or holding neighborhood meetings. These are activities that I, and other voters in District 36A, expect from candidates running for office.
I know Ms. Calhoun is a recent transplant to our area, but anyone wanting to represent our area should be observed in the community, actively learning about our district and issues impacting us, the residents. I understand Calhoun is a St. Paul Democrat with no history in our area, our schools, people or local issues. Why is she interested in and how can she be effective representing us without actively soliciting our input?
It appears that the Democrats' plan to secure our district for the Democratic party relies on having a drive-by candidate like Calhoun who shows up occasionally and then watches as her win is driven by a tsunami of negative ads and pamphlets smearing her competitor. District 36A deserves better representation for the next two years.
Joyce Hennes Lino Lakes
PAID LETTER
Service to others
My name is Janelle Calhoun, I live in Lino Lakes with my husband and our dog. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on learning, serving, teaching and bringing people together. I have a degree in conflict resolution from Saint Olaf College. I was a retirement income planner and licensed financial representative at Thrivent Financial. Most recently, I served as the executive director of Rein in Sarcoma, a nonprofit raising funds for cancer research, education and supporting families. Running for office wasn’t part of my plan, but I believe we are at a pivotal moment. Our community deserves a candidate who will prioritize our community and schools. We need leaders who will advocate for increased funding, essential resources and support for educators so that every child has access to a quality education, preparing them for a rapidly changing world. I am running because our community deserves a representative who builds bridges and works across the aisle to find common-sense solutions. We need a representative who will stand up for women’s rights, fighting for access to reproductive care, safe maternity services and preventive health resources, which are critical for women’s well-being and equality.
We also need a representative who will protect our water, stand up for our environment and work to lower the cost of medications, even when it’s hard. Our community deserves a representative who shows up, participates in debates and is accountable to the people—not to party leaders or corporate lobbyists.
I’m running because I know I have the experience and determination to deliver for our neighborhoods. I’m concerned about your financial well-being and, unlike my opponent, I won’t
vote against Social Security tax relief, family-supporting child tax credits, or measures to prevent price-gouging.
From my earliest days as a Girl Scout, I learned the importance of service to others. That commitment has shaped my career and life. Now, I feel called to serve our community, representing us in the Minnesota Legislature. I’m proud to call Minnesota home, and you, my neighbors. Humbly, I ask for your consideration when you vote on or before Nov. 5.
Janelle Calhoun Lino Lakes
PAID LETTER
A vote for Calhoun
Janelle Calhoun is the Democratic candidate for Minnesota House District 36A.
A vote for Calhoun on Nov. 5 represents a vote for decency and integrity, a vote for a candidate who values community, collaboration and common-sense decision making, and a vote for a candidate who will work to ensure everyone has the opportunity to meet the economic challenges of today.
A vote for her opponent, Elliot Engen, is just the opposite, as the Republican Party, in Minnesota and throughout the country, has become the party of Donald Trump. A vote for Engen supports the threat posed by Donald Trump, a convicted felon with a self-serving, dangerous agenda, and the political party he has corrupted. Minnesota’s Republican party was once a party of conservative pragmatists endorsing democratic principles. Today, they embrace Trumpism and the social and economic chaos he has created in our state. The Republicans serving in our state’s legislature have submitted, like those in most other states, to the anti-democratic, mean-spirited ideology of Donald Trump.
Minnesota needs leaders who respect and will uphold our nation’s constitution, who will make decisions based on what’s best for individuals and communities. Strong leadership representing honesty and integrity that supports, rather than destroys, the rule of law and accountable government in our state. Janelle Calhoun will be this kind of leader if elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Rhonda Donnay-Rice Lino Lakes
PAID LETTER
Bringing sanity back to the legislature
Heavy attacks criticizing Rep. Elliott Engen reveal how empty the DFL agenda is. Rep. Engen has proven himself to be amazingly smart and effective and is steps ahead of many of his colleagues. That's why the DFL wants his seat.
It's more logical to criticize the Democrats who gave drivers’ licenses to illegal immigrants, spent the $19 tax surplus and imposed another $10 billion in new taxes, made Minnesota a sanctuary state for gender-affirming care for minors (including mutilating surgeries) without parental consent; and gave voting rights to felons who haven’t completed their sentences. That's worth criticizing.
If elected, Janelle Calhoun will deliver more of this radical DFL agenda. How do we know that? The bills cited above all passed strictly on party line, i.e.,
they passed with zero Republican votes just like dozens of the other controversial measures. This one-sided governing has to change.
DFL-favored bills coming up in the 2025 session include: making Minnesota a sanctuary state for illegal immigrants; giving Constitutionally protected rights for gender identity and expression; giving a universal basic income (UBI) to illegal immigrants; and making state grants to LGBTQ persons who are relocating to Minnesota. Just the beginning...
How will Calhoun vote? Based on recent DFL history, she'll vote "yes" across the board. The DFL has made Minnesota the most radical state in the nation, which is destabilizing and harmful to our future.
I'm voting to re-elect Rep. Elliott Engen – he’s bringing sanity back to the legislature.
Jolie Lahlum Lino Lakes
PAID LETTER
Elliott Engen is far from weird
I couldn’t believe the DFL attack ads I have to endure while watching tv, ads even bursting in over Hurricane Milton updates.
I despise these attack ads. I like even less that the DFL is spending $500,000 to savage state representative, Elliott Engen, calling him “weird,” “cuckoo” and “scary.”
ls it weird that Rep. Elliott Engen wants schools to be safe? Or that he wants Minnesota to be a thriving state in which to raise a family? Or that he wants people to be able to walk the streets unafraid? Or lower taxes so families have more buying power?
Elliott Engen is far from weird; he’s an effective legislator and that’s why the DFL want him obliterated.
What lS weird is a Democrat party that gave drivers’ licenses to illegal immigrants; that imposed $10 billion in new taxes when they had a $19 billion surplus; that made Minnesota a sanctuary state for gender-affirming care (including mutilating surgeries on young people); that allowed abortion through the ninth month with no restrictions; that eliminated the religious exemption for church hiring; and that added new language to the Constitution giving voting rights to felons.
This is the Democrat party of candidate Janelle Calhoun. Look for her priorities to include Constitution changes that give rights for gender identity and expression; making Minnesota a sanctuary state for illegal immigrants; giving a universal basic income (UBl) to illegal immigrants; giving grants to LGBTQ persons who are relocating to Minnesota. Just a beginning... You don’t see this agenda listed in Janelle Calhoun’s campaign literature. She uses nice words to sound non-threatening. But because Democrat legislators must vote for each Democrat agenda item or be removed, these items are her priorities.
Janelle Calhoun is the weird one on the ballot for her harmful agenda for Minnesota. Vote for Elliott Engen — he’ll bring sanity back to the legislature. Janet Logid Lino Lakes
CITY BRIEF
Council schedules work session to discuss city admin position LINO LAKES — The City Council will hold a special work session at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22 at City Hall to discuss the process of selecting an interim city administrator. Current City Administrator Sarah Cotton has accepted another position.
CORRECTION
In last week’s issue, the Quad Community Press accidentally included an old letter from Janet Logid titled, “Truly fine Senator.” The correct letter is running in this week’s issue. We apologize for the error.
OBITUARY
Vivian Sue Foldenaur
May 27, 1967 - October 1, 2024. Vivian Sue Foldenaur, youngest daughter of Darrell and Bonita (Bier) Smith, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, surrounded by family. A woman of faith and a devoted wife, Vivian cherished time with her husband and children. She was an Early Childhood Special Education teacher at Centennial School District and leaves behind an incredible legacy. A Funeral Service was held on Friday, October 18, 2024.
Top 5 at PressPubs.com:
Week of Oct. 13 – 20, 2024
Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories
1. Down Under: City hopes to redevelop ‘blighted’ property. Quad Community Press > News
2. Girls soccer: Bears trip Stillwater 3-0 with late burst, reach section finals. White Bear Press > Sports
3. Finally healthy, Harper in dazzling senior year with Gophers. Quad Community Press > Sports 4. Soccer: No state trip for No. 1 Bears; they fall to No. 4 East Ridge 3-2. White Bear Press > Sports
5. Electric vehicle charger a no-go at City Hall. White Bear Press > News
See Press Publications’ website www.presspubs.com for stories from the White Bear Press, The Citizen, Vadnais Heights Press, Shoreview Press, Quad Community Press, The Lowdown-Forest Lake Area and The Lowdown-St. Croix Valley Area.
Submitting Public Notices
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Quad Community Press, Shoreview Press and The Citizen by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday prior to publication date. Early deadlines apply on most holidays Counties of Ramsey and Anoka
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COPS&COURTS
POLICE REPORTS
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
•An officer was dispatched Oct. 8 to a phone call regarding suspicious activity in the 7700 block of 20th Avenue. The incident was documented.
•An officer responded to a complaint of an ordinance violation Oct. 8 near the intersection of 74th Street and Patti Drive. The violator was gone upon arrival.
•An officer stopped an individual Oct. 8 in the 6500 block of Ware Road who was trespassed from a local shopping complex. The individual left without incident.
•An officer spoke with a resident Oct. 8 in the 7300 block of Stagecoach Trail regarding concerns of juvenile disorderly conduct occurring in the neighborhood. Officers were unable to locate the suspects, but the investigation is ongoing.
•An officer found a license plate at a city building Oct. 8 in the 1700 block of Birch Street. The owner was contacted, and the property was returned.
•An officer responded to a report of suspicious activity Oct. 9 in the 200 block of Baldwin Circle. It was discovered to be individuals campaigning for an upcoming election.
•Officers assisted a neighboring agency Oct. 9 in arresting a male for a protection order violation in the 0 block of Ash Street. The male was arrested, and an officer later transferred custody of the male to the neighboring agency.
•An officer responded to a vehicle fire Oct. 10 near the intersection of Interstate 35W and Lake Drive. There were
COUNTY BRIEFS
no injuries, and the vehicle was towed from the scene.
•An officer assisted another agency with a burglary report Oct. 10 in the 12700 block of Guadalcanal Street NE. The officer spoke to residents and collected evidence. The report was forwarded to the appropriate investigating agency.
•An officer responded to a fraud report Oct. 10 in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The investigation is ongoing.
•An officer responded to a local roadway Oct. 10 in the 6100 block of Holly Drive on a report of a suspicious vehicle. The officer searched the area, and the vehicle was gone upon the officer’s arrival.
•A community service officer received a message Oct. 11 about a tree down in a park in the 6600 block of West Shadow Lake Drive. Public works was notified.
•An officer received a report of a missing individual Oct. 11 in the 100 block of Ulmer Drive. The individual was later located.
•Officers responded to a report of a possible slumper in a vehicle Oct. 11 in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. The driver had been resting and decided to relocate.
•An officer responded to a delayed report of a theft of political signs Oct. 11 in the 300 block of Lilac Street. The incident was documented.
•Officers responded to a report of someone banging on doors and windows Oct. 11 at a residence located in the 600 block of Lois Lane. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate anyone.
•Officers responded to a vehicle crash Oct. 12 in the 400 block of Park Court.
Anoka County hosts Spotlight on Opioids and Overdose event
Come and see how Anoka County is responding to the opioid epidemic at an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, at Columbia Academy, 900 49th Ave. NE, Columbia Heights. The event aims to raise awareness about overdose prevention and provide support for individuals and families who are or may be affected by substance misuse.
Hosted by the Anoka County Opioid Solutions Initiative (ACOSI), the day will be filled with insightful education, discussions, informative sessions and networking opportunities. There will be presentations by experts on opioids and addiction, free naloxone and training, a panel of people who have lived through opioid addiction, more than 30 community vendors, interview opportunities, free coffee and pizza and more. Vendors will be in the school’s gymnasium and speakers and presentations will be in the media center.
ACOSI has been established to respond to the
The driver showed signs of impairment and was arrested for DWI and was later charged with DWI-related offenses.
•Officers responded to a report of a disorderly group of juveniles Oct. 13 in the 6400 block of Stella Lane. Officers located the group drinking underage, issued citations and contacted their parents.
•Officers responded to a possible two-vehicle personal injury accident Oct. 13 in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers found that all occupants were okay.
One driver was issued a citation, and one vehicle was towed.
•An officer took a report of a car versus deer accident Oct. 14 near the intersection of Main Street and Lake Drive. The driver did not want an accident report and was provided with a case number. Officers could not locate the deer.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
•While on patrol Oct. 9 near the intersection of North Road NE and Park Drive West in Circle Pines, police found a set of keys.
•Officers were dispatched Oct. 9 to a property damage accident in the 6900 block of 21st Avenue in Centerville. Officers took information for a report and facilitated the exchange of information between parties.
•Officers received a phone call Oct. 9 regarding suspicious activity in the 0 block of Woodcrest Drive in Circle Pines.
•Police responded to reports of a juvenile issue Oct. 10 in the 7300 block of Old Mill Road in Centerville.
•Police responded to a crash Oct. 11
misuse of opioids in Anoka County. Its mission is to improve health, save lives and reduce the impact caused by opioids and other substances in Anoka County by managing opioid settlement funding and supporting strategic partnerships.
In 2021, the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office joined a $26 billion multistate settlement agreement with more than a dozen companies that manufactured, sold or distributed prescription painkillers for their role in fueling the opioid crisis. As part of this settlement, Anoka County anticipates receiving approximately $18 million in disbursements over the next 18 years to address the opioid crisis and prevent opioid deaths in our community.
For more information on the Anoka County Opioid Solutions Initiative, visit anokacountymn.gov/ACOSI.
County secures 2 grants from Met Council
Anoka County will receive two new grants from the Metropolitan Council.
First, the county will receive $224,882 in state
in the 900 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington.
•Officers were dispatched Oct. 12 on reports of suspicious activity in the 7000 block of Eagle Trail in Centerville. The suspects were gone on arrival. Officers were able to determine it was juvenile activity and their parents were notified.
•Officers responded to a theft Oct. 12 that occurred in the 10 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines. Pending further suspect information.
•Officers were dispatched Oct. 13 to a phone call theft report in the 300 block of Flowerfield Road in Circle Pines. No suspects have been identified.
•Officers were dispatched Oct. 13 to a phone call report of theft that occurred in the 60 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines.
•A community service officer was dispatched to the lobby of the Centennial Lakes Police Department Oct. 14 for a walk-in report regarding found property.
•Police took a phone call harassment report Oct. 14 in the 300 block of Heritage Trail in Circle Pines.
•While on patrol Oct. 14, police observed a suspicious vehicle in the 50 block of West Golden Lake Road in Circle Pines.
•Police responded to the 1900 block of 72nd Street in Centerville Oct. 14 for a report of a suspicious vehicle.
•While on patrol Oct. 14, police found an abandoned bicycle in the 3700 block of Woodland Road in Lexington.
•Officers conducted a traffic stop Oct. 15 near the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Lovell Drive in Lexington.
general funds in a tree-planting grant. This is for the reimbursement of costs associated with the planting of trees with more diverse, climate-adapted species in Anoka County’s regional parks and trail system jurisdiction.
The county will also receive $500,000 in parks and trail legacy funds for the Bunker Beach lazy river bridge design, engineering and construction.
Board amends contract for waterslide
Morcon Construction has been working on improvements to the Twisted Towers slide tower and the Adventure Pool at Bunker Beach. While work was underway, additional safety concerns and issues arose. These issues will need to be addressed prior to opening next season. The cost estimate for the corrections is $183,277. Some of that will be covered by the contingency allowance in the grant budget and the remaining funds will come out of the Bunker Beach fund balance.
Home occupation ordinance: Text amendment fails to move forward
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The City Council has decided to stick with the status quo when it comes to its home occupation ordinance.
Connor Mattioli, who lives on Quarter Horse Court, submitted a land use application for a zoning text amendment to allow him to continue to operate his business after relocating to Lino Lakes.
Per city code, “No motor vehicle repair, paint or body work; commercial preparation of food for service on the premise; business related to or involving explosives, ammunition or weapons … shall be permitted as a home occupation.” The ordinance was last amended in 2010.
“A zoning text amendment doesn’t just apply to his property but would apply to all properties within the city,” City Planner
Katie Larsen explained. “This would be a citywide ordinance amendment that would be applicable to all single-family homes.”
Mattioli’s original request was to strike the words “explosives, ammunition or weapons” from the ordinance. The Public Safety Department has no issue with the proposed text amendment, but the Planning and Zoning Board had mixed opinions. The board ultimately recommended (5-2) to the council that only the word “weapons” be removed from the ordinance.
After the vote, Mattioli requested the language be amended again to the “manufacturing of ammunition.”
“The applicant is requesting the nuance of manufacturing and ammunition … You can have ammunition or weapons as part of the home occupation, but you can’t make ammunition,” Larsen clarified.
Mayor Rob Rafferty questioned the reason for the change.
“Possession of ammunition by my company is critical to the operation of a weapon in test firing a weapon, manufacturing, as well as any training,” Mattioli said. “Keeping of the ammunition language, I wouldn’t be able to do any live firing or testing.”
“My business is primarily focused on the manufacturing of firearms and teaching firearm safety. The only way I would be able to do this is for a home occupation ordinance to allow weapons and ammunition,” Mattioli explained. “Most of my business actually functions off of my property at fire ranges or behind closed doors. I would not be able to discharge a firearm on my property. This would remain unchanged.”
He added, “My neighbors would not no-
tice any difference from before this amendment is passed and after, since the business is behind closed doors or off the property. My main goal is to promote firearm safety, and I would love to provide a service that I am knowledgeable in, firearms and ammunition.”
Rafferty said that he was comfortable with the way the home occupation ordinance was written and did not want to move forward with any amendments. “I’d be in favor of not changing anything.” Ultimately, the first reading did not move forward due to the lack of a second for the motion.
LEXINGTON SETTLEMENT: Spars heated City Council discussion
DeVries said he was comfortable having a conversation within the parameters of Glaser’s recommendation. He mentioned the last time the item was discussed at a public meeting; no dates were shared and he now has those.
Grote said the case was settled back in June, so he wanted to know why DeVries was bringing it up now. “What are we looking to get accomplished?” he asked. “What you have been telling people about the time and dates … and how they happened are wrong,” DeVries said. “When I was on the fire department and different things were brought up, you went to the city administrator right away. This one was more serious, and you didn’t.”
For the discussion, Councill Member Mike Murphy suggested that Council Member Robert Benson take over as acting mayor since he was not involved in any of the discussions related to the litigation.
“Gary has a conflict of interest,” Murphy said. “There needs to be decorum in this chamber, and we have to stay in order.”
DeVries referenced several dates including May 11, 2021, when Fiester “secretly recorded” her performance review with Grote, and the matter was brought up. DeVries said it was brought up again at an officers meeting July 12, but it wasn’t brought up to the city administrator until July 19, 2021.
“You have been telling people you didn’t know
anything about it other than when you told the city administrator,” DeVries said. Grote responded, “Counsel recommended we not talk about it, so I’m not going to talk about it.”
Former Mayor Mark Kurth asked Glaser whether the multiple meetings held behind closed doors on the item were for attorney-client privilege. “My understanding is one council member right now asked to violate the attorney-client privilege … How is it that one person goes rogue like that?”
Glaser said that some closed-door meetings are for attorney-client privilege, and some aren’t. In this case, he said it comes down to discussing what is confidential under the Minnesota Data Practices Act.
Lino Lakes resident Russ Kunzer, who used to serve on the fire department with Grote, mentioned he was told by one of the victims about emails that were sent to Murphy, Glaser and City Administrator Bill Petracek.
Glaser said there was an independent investigation into the matter performed by someone hired from the League of Minnesota Cities. During that investigation, those emails never surfaced.
“The dates that you just heard the council member say were the only evidence that was presented in that regard,” Glaser said. “We are talking about evidence that doesn’t exist … If these emails had existed, it would have been very powerful evidence in support of their lawsuit. Those never came up.”
Murphy said if he had received an email, he would
have addressed it. Petracek also said he never received those emails.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com. decision.”
“Whoever was in here on this council is as guilty as anybody. If we are going to bring stuff up, let’s bring it all up. Let’s not just throw him (Grote) under the bus,” Kunzer said. “He is a good man. He represented this city for years; he was a great firefighter … you guys are just as guilty for not protecting him.”
Mark Vanderbloomer, who served as the assistant fire chief at the time of the alleged incident, said he was never once contacted about anything during the investigation.
“I find it curious that this now has to come up … yet I have not heard from our current fire chief of one policy, initiative, training session or anything that has been changed to prevent this from ever happening again,” he said. “What have you as a council in all your workshops, investigations … on these serious issues, done to address and move our city forward so we are not stuck here for hours talking about things that may or may not have happened long ago?”
He added, “Why are we not looking forward, trying to make the city a better place and keep us from having these very large settlements going out the door while our taxpayers are struggling to buy groceries and pay for fuel?”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
BULLYING: Counselors, principals speak out and offer help
FROM PAGE 1
Board Policy 514, anyone who is a target of bullying must report the incident to an appropriate school district official, which is to be documented or forwarded to an administrator. Within three days of this report, an investigation into the alleged incident will be conducted, with disciplinary action sought upon completion. “It is the responsibility of all in the school community to work together to create safe, nurturing and inspiring environments,” added White.
Carolyn Babekuhl, a school-based therapist at Mounds View High School, states that the short and long-term effects of bullying can lead to other issues in the targeted students’ behavior. “It can cause them to gain difficulty in maintaining self-confidence,” said Babekuhl, “which can impact them in the long term. This can lead to them developing mental health issues because of how much students are trying to cope with the threats they’ve received. It can cause them to really be on guard and become hypervigilant in certain circumstances. This can all lead to a lot of different long-term challenges, as well.”
The Mounds View School District’s procedures for bullying are outlined on its website under Regulation EG-3107. Under that regulation, the school’s principal must receive all reports on bullying-related incidents, whether verbally or in writing. Much like White Bear Lake, an investigation is conducted within three days
of a report being filed, in which numerous factors about the bully themselves are analyzed, including their maturity levels and/or special needs, the nature and frequency of the behavior and past documented incidents. The bully will also be allowed to present a defense of their actions prior to the end of the investigation. According to the website, “any consequences given should be sufficient enough to deter future violations and appropriate account for any behaviors that violate this policy and regulation.”
At Centennial High School, Principal Tom Bruening emphasized the importance of reporting bullying immediately. “We want to know about any kind of bullying or harassment because this isn’t something that just goes away,” said Bruening. “I will always tell kids, “It’s not going to get better if you don’t tell me what’s happening.’ We can work with students as much as we can with the perpetrator.”
Bruening highlighted the school’s “See Something, Say Something” policy for reporting bullying. Under this, QR codes are posted around the hallways that students can scan with their phones if they are victims or witness firsthand bullying. Scanning this code will bring students to the official policy page and allow them to report the incident directly to the school. By the district’s 514 policy (and like White Bear and Mounds View), an investigation is conducted within three days of the report. Like Mounds View, the bully will be al-
lowed to present a defense of their actions before the investigation is complete. Possible consequences against the bully include a warning, suspension or expulsion.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him by email at whitebearnews@presspubs.com or by phone at 651-407-1229.
U.S. school bullying statistics (ages 12 - 18)
One out of every five students report being bullied during the school year.
• Students who are eithered bullied or engage in bullying behavior are at greater risk for mental health and behavior problems than those who only bully or are only bullied.
• The reasons for being bullied reported most often by students include physical appearance, race/ethnicity, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation.
• These statistics are based on results from the 2017 School Crime Supplement to the National Crime Victimization Survey, covering the U.S. school year from 2016 to 2017.
According to co-owner Terry Kellerman, the contest is not just an opportunity for attendees to show off their best costumes, but also to increase their chances of winning first place. “It’s quite a competition,” noted Kellerman. “I’ll see the same people come every year with different costumes. Usually, they’ll leave the previous year thinking to themselves, ‘All right, I’m going to win next year,’ so what they put on can be pretty elaborate.”
As in previous years, the party is reserved for ages 18 and older, a factor that Kellerman and Cranmer partially attribute to the lack of restrictions on what costume attendees can wear (although excessive nudity is prohibited).
For alcoholic beverages, guests can choose three locations for purchases: the Alchemist and/or 4 Deuces Saloon on the lower level, and the center’s main event bar on the second floor. “We
WEEKLY WAG
Spooky fun required
will have Oktoberfest beers on tap in the saloon,” said Cranmer, “and guests can buy specialty cocktails over at the Alchemist.” Despite the Halloween vibe, Cranmer said none of the three locations will sell themed drinks for the party. “We tried doing that the last couple of years, and it’s not very popular,” Cranmer admitted. A cash bar will also be available for attendees.
WildCat Combo, a classic rock cover band that has performed at each of the center’s past Halloween parties, will provide live music from 8 to 11 p.m.
Throughout the night, a person dressed in a judge’s costume will go around the center and interact with guests. According to Kellerman, this is part of the party’s contest nomination process to see who is doing the best job of acting in character. The judge and center staff will keep a list of people they consider the best in character.
In between band performance breaks, the “judge” will invite
Meet Aimee, a total sweetheart. Aimee loves attention, walks and treats. She is a 3-year-old Chinese shar-pei/pit bull terrier mix, and weighs about 47 pounds. Aimee is house-trained, cratetrained and leashtrained. In addition to walks, Aimee likes to play fetch, play with her stuffed animal toys and go for car rides. She is affectionate and she is a total, loyal companion dog. She loves her people. In fact, when she wants attention, she will softly nudge your hand. Aimee is gentle, even-tempered, intelligent, and always eager to please.
BUSINESS BRIEF
Quad chamber rebrands
Trunk or Treat
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, located in Circle Pines, once again held its annual Trunk or Treat event. The event, which featured a variety of themed trunks, petting zoo, face painting, live music and a photobooth with a chicken named Potato drew a crowd of approximately 430 children.
each person on the list to the stage and ask questions, by which the crowd will eliminate contestants by popular vote until the final three remain. First-place winners will receive a $100 gift card to the Alchemist, while second and third-place winners will earn $50 and $25, respectively.
The center’s Halloween parties have tended to draw 200 to 300 people, except during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Cranmer and Kellerman, they hope to outdo this number this year. “More recently, we’ve been bringing in about 250 people,” said Kellerman. “We’d love to see that go up to 490, which is our max capacity,” added Cranmer.
Tickets for the party will be sold at the door for $20 per attendee the night of the event.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him by phone at 651-407-1229 or email at whitebearnews@presspubs.com
Aimee thrives on direction and reassurance, and she is always seeking to know when she is doing well.
She is social with other dogs and she is friendly to everyone she meets after proper introductions. Aimee arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter. Aimee is anxiously awaiting a loving home and family that will help her be her best.
If you are interested in learning more about Aimee or adopting her, fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org.
The local chamber has undergone a rebrand. The chamber was founded as the Lino Lakes Chamber in 1999. Eventually, it evolved into the Quad Area Chamber to include the cities of Centerville, Circle Pines and Lexington.
According to chamber President/CEO Michelle Koch, “The vast majority of people who live and/or work in this area don’t refer to it as the Quad Area. The chamber struggled with identity as some people confused it with this very paper, and others regularly referred to it as the Quad Cities.”
Members of the chamber unanimously decided to change the name to the Centennial Area Chamber.
“The school district is the glue that binds the area into a community; the
name aligns with not just the school, but the local police, fire, food shelf and library,” Koch said. “It reflects the chamber’s service area of the original four, along with the broader area.”
The new logo hints at a C built out of individual pieces that represent the different cities. The colors represent the obvious red for the school, but also the paths, green space and lakes that residents love about the area.
Koch said the chamber board is excited about this change and the feedback has been very positive.
Shannon Granholm
Cougar junior hits milestone in win over Totino-Grace
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Cougars stymie Irish 21-7, take 4-4 mark into playoffs
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The Centennial Cougars closed the regular season with a 21-7 win over the Rosemount Irish at Rosemount on Thursday evening.
The Cougars (4-4) are seeded fourth in their quadrant of the Class 6A state playoffs and will host Rochester Mayo (2-6) on Friday Oct 25.
Isaac Belinske-Strauss, junior quarterback, scored twice on oneyard runs while totaling 50 yards on 22 carries. He completed four of seven passes for 50 yards with no interception. Kellen Binder caught two for 24 yards.
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Elena Hoecke, Centennial junior volleyball standout, notched the 1,000th kill of her career on Tuesday during a 3-0 win over Totino-Grace at home.
Hoecke made 12 kills and 10 digs to help Cougars beat the Eagles 25-22, 25-20, 25-12 in the regular season finale.
The 6-foot-3 middle blocker, a starter since eighth grade, has 322 kills this year, with sets from Chase Manthey and Emmerson Jennings. She’s also logged 58 blocks and 42 aces.
Hoecke played for a national team last summer that won an international tournament. She has verbally committed to the Minnesota Gophers.
"We are so proud of Elena's accomplishment,” coach Nicole Christensen said, adding that it’s harder for “mid-
SPORTS BRIEFS
GIRLS SOCCER
Centennial’s bid for a state trip was denied by Duluth East 1-0 in the Section 7AAA finals on Tuesday evening in Duluth. Lilly Kuettle tallied the lone goal of the game early in the first half. The Greyhounds (16-3) posted their 13th shutout of the season to earn their first state trip since 2010. Centennial was playing in its 11th consecutive section final, in which they’re 7-4 but have lost their last two. The Cougars, who had nine shots on goal, finished 10-6-1.
SWIMMING & DIVING
Centennial closed the regular season with a 101-83 win over Rogers on Oct. 14.
dles” to rack up high kill totals than for outside hitters. She praised Hoecke for “great work ethic, determination, focus, and, lastly, talent” as well as being an excellent team leader and role model.
Hoecke is the fourth Cougar to reach 1,000 kills, joining Leigh Pudwill (200711), Olivia Jensen (2012-16) and Sydney Petersen (2017-20).
Against Totino-Grace, Addison Kamper also had 12 kills, Aubrey Wirkkala six and Nora Lieser and Emma Pederson five each. Denver Hogberg made 11 digs and Manthey 22 assets.
With the victory, Centennial closed the regular season with a 17-11 record and 5-2 in the Northwest Suburban.
The Cougars are seeded first in Section 7AAAA, which has no ranked teams. They will open against Coon Rapids on Thursday, 7 p.m.
The Cougars finished 3-4 in duals. Next will be Section 7AA from Nov. 7-9 at a site to be determined. Placing first for the Cougars were Sophie Nguyen in the 200 freestyle (2:05.72) and butterfly (1:04.55), Kate Woelfel in diving (294.70), Lydia Hydukovich in the individual medley (2:23.83), Claira Zebell in the backstroke (1:09.47), Anja Norman in the breaststroke (1:15.51) and the 200 freestyle relay team of Lucy Foster, Annelise Lattimore, Amelia Pole, and Madeline Uelmen (1:56.03). Adding second-place points were Cordelia Schultz in diving (150.60), Hydukovich in the 100 freestyle (1:00.38).
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Ben Clauson, middle linebacker on the Centennial football team, leads the Cougars (4-4) in tackles with 83 (26 solo, 57 assisted) and made 14 stops last week in a win over Rosemount. The 5-foot-9, 205-pound senior is one of a handful of starters back from the 2023 state champion team. Clauson has also logged six tackles-for-loss, an interception, and a 10-yard touchdown run (against Osseo). He is also the baseball team’s starting catcher.
Jaden Lilly broke away for a 53yard touchdown. He carried four times for 79 yards. Caleb Melser, the Cougars rushing leader, was held to 27 yards in 11 carries.
Justin Driver kicked three extra points.
Marshawn Carlvin intercepted two passes for the Cougars. Linebacker Ben Clauson made 14 tackles.
Cougar Scoreboard
CROSS COUNTRY
Results last week
No meets
Coming up
Thursday: Section 7AAA at Anoka High School, boys 11:30 a.m., girls 12:10 p.m.
FOOTBALL
Result last week
Cougars 21, Rosemount 0
Record
3-4 conference, 4-4 overall Coming up State playoffs
Friday: Rochester Mayo, 7 p.m.
SOCCER, GIRLS
Results last week
Section 7AAA Duluth East 1, Cougars 0 (finals) Record 8-2 conference, 10-6-1 overall (final)
SWIMMING
Results last week
Cougars 101, Rogers 83 Record 3-4 conference and overall Coming up Nov. 7-8: Section 7AA at Coon Rapids
VOLLEYBALL Result last week
Cougars def. Totino-Grace 25-22, 25-20, 25-12 Record 5-2 conference, 17-11 overall Coming up Section 7AAAA Thursday: Coon Rapids, 7 p.m.
Jaden Lilly (18) celebrates his 53-yard touchdown run with Isaac Belinske-Strauss at Rosemount.
Elena Hoecke, No. 6 (middle) and her teammates celebrate her 1,000th kill.
Anoka County seeks input for updates to Hazard Mitigation Plan
Anoka County residents, community leaders, business owners, area agencies and organizations now have an opportunity to share how severe weather events impact their property and lives. There is also an opportunity to share their ideas on how to reduce local impacts in the future.
The Anoka County Office of Emergency Management is working with U-Spatial at the University of Minnesota Duluth to update the county’s Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP). The plan assesses the natural hazards that pose risk to the county, such as tornadoes, straightline winds, ice storms, blizzards, wildfire, flooding and extreme temperatures and identifies ways to minimize the damage of future events. As the county works to update the plan, it urges members of the public to provide their input.
The Anoka County HMP is a multijurisdictional plan that covers Anoka County, including all cities and townships within the county. The Anoka County HMP also incorporates the concerns and needs of school districts, watershed districts and other related agencies, organizations or businesses participating in the planning process. The plan will be updated by a planning team made up of representatives from county departments, local municipalities and other key stakeholders. When completed, the plan will be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for approval.
“Hazard mitigation planning is a central part of our emergency management program,” said Anoka County
Emergency Management Director Terry Stoltzman. “Understanding the natural hazards that can cause serious impact to our communities and taking action to reduce or eliminate the impact of future disasters makes us more resilient. Hazard mitigation helps us to break the cycle of damage and repair caused by things like flooding, ice storms and severe wind events that can damage property, stress economies and threaten life safety in our county.”
Examples of hazard mitigation include:
•Conducting public outreach on severe weather awareness and preparedness
•Improving stormwater management systems to better handle high-rain events
•Removing existing buildings from flood or erosion prone hazard areas
•Increasing defensible space around homes in high-risk wildfire areas
•Constructing tornado safe rooms in vulnerable areas such as mobile home parks
•Burying overhead powerlines that may fail due to heavy snow, ice or windstorms
Some mitigation activities may be eligible for future FEMA hazard mitigation assistance grant funding. Public input is an essential part of the plan update. As part of the planning process, Anoka County is seeking feedback from residents and businesses to incorporate into the plan. Your input will be recorded and incorporated into the planning process:
•What are the natural hazards you feel pose the greatest risk to your community?
•Are there specific populations or assets in your community that you feel are more vulnerable to future storm events?
•What concerns do you have, and what sorts of actions do you feel would help to reduce damages of future hazard events in your community or the county as a whole?
Comments, concerns or questions regarding natural disasters and your ideas for mitigation projects should be submitted to Anoka County Emergency Management by phone or email or by posting a comment via a social media posting of this article. There will be additional opportunities for public feedback throughout the planning process.
A draft of the plan will be made available for public review prior to submission of the plan to the state of Minnesota. Future news releases will be shared with the media to notify the public of these opportunities.
The Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) requires counties to update their plan every five years to maintain eligibility for FEMA’s HMA grant programs.
For more information or to share comments, concerns, or questions regarding the HMP, call 763-324-4740 or email RS-EmergencyManagement@ anokacountymn.gov. Anoka County
Frank Watson
Frank Watson
CONDENSED VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024
MN HOUSE DISTRICT 36A: ELECT 1
Janelle Calhoun (DFL)
Age: 48
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: Former nonprofit director
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
Executive Director at Rein in Sarcoma
• Local community volunteer
• Active in church (Living Waters)
Elliott Engen (R)
Age: 25
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: State Representative, formerly Prosecution Assistant and NGO coordinator.
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
State Legislator
Special Olympics Minnesota School safety policy leader
MN HOUSE DISTRICT 32B
Matt Norris (DFL)
Age: 35
City of residence: Blaine
Occupation: Attorney
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles:
• Commissioner, Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (governing body of the National Sports Center)
Member, Blaine Festival Committee Volunteer Attorney, Children’s Law Center
CENTERVILLE MAYOR: ELECT 1
D. Love
Age: Not provided
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Claims team
manager – State Farm Insurance/ Centerville Mayor
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: I taught Sunday School at Eagle Brook Church. My wife and I announced the parade for several years.
I coached youth basketball and football. I coached high school football for 5 years. I was a Planning and Zoning Commissioner, I have been on the City Council for 16 years, serving as mayor for five years. I served on the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust for 12 years and the Executive Board for five years where I was honored to serve as president.
Nancy Golden
Age: 54
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Midwest manager in the specialty pharmaceutical industry
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Not provided
CENTERVILLE CITY COUNCIL: SPECIAL ELECTION
Anita Rios
Age: 62
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Talent management consultant, part-time; retired from a 35year career in public higher education
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Served on several national/ regional boards and received numerous service and leadership awards.
Russ Koski
Age: 60
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Account manager
List 3 most recent civic involvement
roles: I have served on the Centerville City Council for 7 1/2 years, deputy mayor for three years, P&Z Commission liaison and alternate representative to the North Metro Telecommunications Commission. I have attended the LMC conference and workshops. I attend Anoka County Government events, learning of county plans and how they affect Centerville while building relationships with local government decision makers.
I have volunteered for the city of Centerville Fete des Lacs festival parade for seventeen years.
It has been my honor to serve on the Centennial Fire District Steering Committee for the past six years, three times as chairperson.
David Kubat
Age: 40
City of residence: Centerville Occupation: Attorney/Owner, Zimmer Law Group Saint Paul List 3 Most Recent Civic Involvement Roles:
• Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission (Chair) – 2021-2023
• Military Immigration Liaison, American Immigration Lawyers Association MN-DAK Chapter 2015-present
• Intelligence Officer, Minnesota Army National Guard – 2008-2020
Garland Port
Age: 27
City of residence: Centerville
Occupation: Software engineer
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Not provided
LEXINGTON MAYOR: ELECT 1
Gary Grote
Age: 63
City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: Senior principal technician for a medical device company
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
Currently the Mayor of Lexington
• Current member of the Circle-Lex Lions Club
• Former member of the Fire Department for 28 plus years, Fire Chief for 12 of those years. Retired 2021
Mike Murphy
Age: 39
City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: Father of two girls, husband and small business owner in the printing, digital and shipping industry.
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• City council member (Current)
• Mayor 2019 - 2022
City council member 2016-2019
Barbara J Mahr
Age: 55+
City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: I am a successful financial advisor and enjoy helping my clients increase their confidence by making informed life decisions whether they are retired or working toward their future financial success. Awarded the Five Star Wealth Manager Award 2017-2023.
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• Previously a city of Lexington council member from 1995-1999 and 2007-2010. I also served on the Planning and Zoning Commission in the past.
Member of Power of 100 Twin Cities Women Who Care
• Volunteer-Centennial Lakes Little League
• Past board member - Renovation Church
Brandon Winge
Age: 44
City of Residence: Lexington
Occupation: Job supervisor
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles: Lexington City Council. Duties on the City Council: Cable Commission representative, Planning and Zoning representative, Police Board representative
Jill Hunt
Age: 60+
City of residence: Lexington
Occupation: I was a small business owner for 25 years, now retired.
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
Member of Hope for WomenDress A Girl program
• Our Savior’s Quilting GroupSupporting Alexandra House and Community Members Quilting for Interim Hospice
CENTENNIAL SCHOOL BOARD: ELECT 3
Sue Linser
Age: 51
City of Residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: North America Sales Operations Analyst, AVIRE
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
• 2021-present - School Board Director, currently serving as Vice Chair
• 2022-present - Centennial Area Education Foundation Board Member 2014-2018 - Centennial Girls Hockey Blue Line Club Treasurer
Craig Johnson
Age: 61 years
City of residence: Lino Lakes
Occupation: Independent personal insurance agent
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
I have filled various roles in leadership for organizations including the following:
Current Centennial School Board Clerk.
• Donating my time to an educational nonprofit, Best Prep, for the past eight years.
Volunteered with the Lino Lakes Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and was a past president.
PUBLIC
Heidi Hansen
Age: 53
City of residence: Blaine
Occupation: Preschool teacher
List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
Volunteer teacher at St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church for the past 15 years
• Served nine years on the Centennial Lakes Little League Board of Directors and four years as a league representative Youth Softball Coach
Laura Gannon
Age: 44
City of residence: Circle Pines
Occupation: Principal Software Systems Engineer List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:
Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair Middle School Judge (2022)
NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION
NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES Just started a business?
CENTENNIAL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 12
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 12 CENTENNIAL STATE OF MINNESOTA
STATE OF MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION
NOTICE
CENTERVILLE, MINNESOTA
PUBLIC NOTICE OF ELECTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the general election has been called and will be held in and for Independent School District No. 12, (Centennial), State of Minnesota, on Tuesday, the 5th day of November 2024, for the purpose of electing three school board members for four-year terms. The ballot shall provide as follows:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the general election has been called and will be held in and for Independent School District No. 12, (Centennial), State of Minnesota, on Tuesday, the 5th day of November 2024, for the purpose of electing three school board members for four-year terms. The ballot shall provide as follows:
INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTERS
To vote, completely fill in the ovals(s) next to your choice(s) like this:
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER VOTE FOR UP TO THREE
LAURA GANNON
HEIDI HANSEN
CRAIG JOHNSON
SUE LINSER write-in, if any write-in, if any write-in, if any
The polling places for this election and the precincts served by those polling places will be as follows:
BLAINE W-1 P-8 National Sports Center – The Welcome Center 1750 105th Ave. NE Blaine, MN 55449
BLAINE W-1 P-9 Our Savior’s Lutheran Church 9185 Lexington Ave. NE Circle Pines, MN 55014
BLAINE W-2 P-5 Eagle Brook Church 3603 95th Ave NE Blaine, MN 55014
BLAINE W-2 P-6 Blaine City Hall 10801 Town Square Dr. NE Blaine, MN 55449
BLAINE W-2 P-7 Bridgewood Community Church 11670 Lexington Ave. NE Blaine, MN 55449
BLAINE W-2 P-8 Renovation Church 12390 Frazier St NE Blaine, MN 55449
BLAINE W-2 P-9 Centennial Senior High Performing Arts Center 4757 North Road Blaine, MN 55014
CENTERVILLE P-1 St. Genevieve’s Community Parish 6995 Centerville Road Centerville, MN 55038
CIRCLE PINES P-1 St. Mark Lutheran Church 1 North Road Circle Pines, MN 55014
CIRCLE PINES P-2 Circle Pines City Hall 200 Civic Heights Circle Circle Pines, MN 55014
LEXINGTON P-1 Lexington City Hall 9180 Lexington Ave. Lexington, MN 55014
LINO LAKES P-1 Lino Lakes Senior Center 1189 Main Street Lino Lakes, MN 55014
LINO LAKES P-2 Lino Lakes
polls for said election will be open at 7:00 AM and will remain open until closing at 8:00 PM.
The City of Centerville’s polling location, voting hours are as follows:
St. Genevieve’s Community Parish Center 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville, MN 55038
HOURS: 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
MUNICIPAL OFFICES
• Mayor • City Council Member at Large, 2 seats
• City Council Member at Large, 1 seat (special election, term ending in 2026)
Centerville’s polling location: Church of St. Genevieve Parish Community Center, 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville, MN 55038
Voting hours: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Precinct Name Voting Location
Centerville P-1 St. Genevieve Community Parish Center, 6995 Centerville Road, Centerville, MN 55038
Teresa Bender, City Clerk Published two times in the Quad Community Press on October 22 and 29, 2024.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
NOTICE OF SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE #XXX, SECOND SERIES - 2025 FEE SCHEDULE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City of Centerville City Council will be holding a Public Hearing to consider Ordinance #XXX, Second Series – 2025 Fee Schedule on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers of the Centerville City Hall, located at 1880 Main Street, Centerville, MN 55038. The purpose of the meeting is to obtain public input regarding the City’s fees that are charged. You may call City Hall (651) 429-3232 or email mstatz@centervillemn.com or tbender@centervillemn.com if you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter. A copy of the proposed amendments will be available for inspection at City Hall and the meeting is open to the public. If you are unable to attend the Public Hearing, written comments are welcome and will be accepted until 12:00 p.m. the Friday prior to the meeting date.
In accordance with the Americans With Disability Act, a hearing-impaired individual(s), wishing to attend the Public Hearing may request a sign language translator by contacting City Hall at (651) 429-3232 within one week prior to the scheduled public hearing.
Teresa Bender, City Clerk
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on October 22, 2024.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City Council of the City of Centerville will consider the adoption of special assessments against properties that have delinquent utilities charges for the year 2023/2024 and outstanding balances associated with City services/assessments (i.e., lawn maintenance, property cleanup, etc.). The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter. The purpose of the meeting is to consider the certification of the delinquent City charges for utilities, garbage and other services provided to properties that have unpaid charges due on or before September 18, 2024.
The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal to district court may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the Municipal Clerk prior to the assessment 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 an adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners as it deems advisable.
An owner may appeal an assessment to district court pursuant to Minn. Stat. §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.
The City Hall is ADA accessible. Requests for hearing assisted devices or a sign language interpreter must be received before 4:00 p.m. October 30, 2024. All persons interested are invited to attend and to be heard, verbally or in writing. You may call City Hall (651) 792-7934 if you have any questions.
Teresa Bender, City Clerk
•Property owners at 7214 LaValle Drive can move ahead with a second driveway access after the council granted a variance. City code does not allow a second driveway access, except on corner lots, and — even then — only in certain circumstances. The second driveway access on LaValle Drive would simply connect to an existing driveway remnant that had been in place before the Bayview Villas Development driveway was installed, and which leads to a tuck-under-garage in the rear of the home. Following the development of Bayview Villas, this piece of driveway into the garage became “orphaned” and could be accessed only by driving on the grass from the new driveway. The homeowners were seeking to make this connection from the street by using the second driveway. The Planning and Zoning Commission held the required public hearing and recommended approval of a variance for a second driveway connection to the roadway with seven findings of fact and four conditions.
•Property owners of 1812 Laramie Lane can construct a boulder retaining wall now that an encroachment agreement is in place. The property owners wanted to build a boulder retaining wall in the rear, southwesterly corner of their parcel, which will be placed within the two-foot setback from the western property line and within the city’s right-of-way and its drainage and utility easements.
•It is liquor license renewal time for two establishments in town. Both bars were seeking to renew their 2 a.m. liquor licenses, even though they close before 2 a.m. JV Summit Corporation, dba The Southern Rail at 7082 Centerville Road, renewed its
2 a.m. license for on-sale alcoholic beverage gross receipts of more than $100,000, but not more than $500,000. S&B Center Corporation, DBA Kelly’s Korner at 7098 Centerville Road, renewed its 2 a.m. license for on-sale alcoholic beverage gross receipts of more than $500,000.
•St. Genevieve Church at 6995 Centerville Road will host bingo night on Nov. 16, after council approved its charitable gambling permit.
•The third annual Trunk or Treat is set for 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 26 at the Centerville Elementary School south parking lot. Local businesses will participate in the meet-and-greet event, along with the Centennial Fire Department (CFD), Centennial Lakes Police Department, M Health Fairview and the city's Public Works Department. Trunk or Treat will follow the seventh annual Centennial Community Education Halloween Hustle 5K, which is a fun run. Costumes are accepted; well-behaved animals are also allowed. There will be a kid turnaround station half a mile into the race.
•The CFD, in partnership with Meals from the Heart, will host a meal packing event from 8:30 a.m. to a.m. Oct. 26 at Fire Station No. 3, next door to City Hall. Volunteers will be packing 20,000 meals for food pantries in the Centennial School District area. Anyone interested in hosting a meal packing event of their own can learn more at https://mealsfromtheheart.org/.
•The city's Economic Development Authority (EDA) is seeking a resident of Centerville or a bricks-and-mortar business owner in Centerville to fill a vacancy currently on the board. The board meets the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall. The EDA provides programs that
attract and retain businesses for the benefit of the city. For information about becoming a part of this dynamic team, please contact Athanasia Lewis, staff liaison to the board, at alewis@centervillemn. com.
•City staff has been working with state officials and contractors to submit a final grant application to receive the Solar on Public Buildings grant. The project would place solar panels on City Hall and the fire station, which would be capable of supplying up to 40kW of AC power to City Hall. Excess power will be pushed to the power grid. The project’s estimated costs are around $120,000. Sixty percent of the costs would be covered by the grant, 30% by a federal tax rebate and the remaining 10% from city funds. The city should recover its investment within just a few short years in a drastically reduced electric bill, City Administrator Mark Statz said.
•The Amazon delivery center recently celebrated its one-year anniversary. City staff members were invited to a party and tour of the facility.
•Get set to attend a public hearing at the Nov. 12 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting regarding zoning regulations for cannabis sales.
•Be sure to vote, whether by mail-in ballot, in-person absentee ballot or in-person on Nov. 5, Election Day. Statz said that approximately six people per day have been voting early and may do so until Election Day itself.
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23, at City Hall, 1880 Main St.
