Before we say goodbye to 2022 and hello to 2023, it is a tradition of the Quad Community Press to look back at some of the most memorable stories of the year.
In 2022, pages were filled with a variety of news, including stories about crimes, events, schools, churches,
sports, businesses, city government and more. Perhaps some of the most memorable stories are the ones that feature local residents— like the Centennial grad who is now a Blackhawk pilot; or a teacher who teaches in the same room she attended kindergarten in.
Second
Second
FROM PAGE 1
“My wish for 2023 is that my family and friends would stay healthy all year and not get any illnesses. My wish for the world would be that everyone feels loved by someone and that they all have a warm home to live in. My wish for the students at Blue Heron is that they all have good friends and that no one is ever being bullied. I wish the whole world could know nothing but kindness, always.”
Second grade Centerville Elementary
• The 2022 (pay 2023) levy has been set at $26,805,893, which represents a 3.22% increase over the 2021 (pay 2022) levy of $25,970,712. A home in the district that had an estimated market value of $250,000 in 2022 now has an estimated market value of $306,202 and will pay approximately $94 more in 2023 than it did in 2022, or 7% more. Visit the district’s website (www.isd12.org) for more information.
• In January, the school board will welcome some new faces, but Superintendent Jeff Holmberg recently took some time to recognize outgoing school board members Suzy Guthmueller, Kathryn Timm and Robert Vollbrecht. (See full story on page 13).
• The district has once again received a clean or “unmodified opinion” on its 2022 audit. There were no findings of material weaknesses or instances of noncompliance.
• Families in the district will likely see a survey sent out by email in January or February that asks about a variety of topics including safety, academic engagement, connection to adults, communication and more. The survey will include 10-20 questions and be open for a period of 10-14 days.
• The district continues to work on a new website. The district’s website was launched 11 years ago and is nearing its end of life when it comes to technical support. The district began working on the redesign over the summer. Krista Bergert, director of public information and community
outreach, explained that the main goal of the redesign is to have a website that is easy to navigate
This chart takes a look at how the district’s levy has changed over the past five years.
and can be used as a way to share timely information. The new website, which Berget said will be a great marketing tool, is expected to launch in April.
• Community members should save the date for this year’s Centennial Area Education Foundation (CAEF) Gala April 1 at Majestic Oaks Golf Club in Ham Lake.
The next regular school board meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23. The board has also scheduled an organizational meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9.
Shannon GranholmFourth
Elementary
If you are looking for an affectionate lap pet, then meet Shiloh. Once he gets to know you and trust you, you will have a buddy for life. Shiloh is a 2-yearold Chihuahua mix. He arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas and weighs about 6 pounds. He is good with all adults and respectful children. Shiloh is quiet, house-trained, crate-trained and knows his basic commands. He enjoys car rides, swimming and playing with his toys. But mostly, he likes to cuddle.
Shiloh also likes to have his own space, occasionally, so his foster keeps his crate gate open so he can retreat to his kennel whenever he wants to. Shiloh likes to go on walks, but he also likes to run and explore, so a home with a securely fenced yard would suit him well, although he would do great living in an apartment with a pet area, too.
If you are interested in learning more about Shiloh or adopting him, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org.
The state of Minnesota launched a new telehealth test-to-treat program to ensure Minnesotans who have tested positive for COVID-19 have easy access to clinician care and therapeutic treatments that reduce their risk of serious illness or hospitalization.
Minnesotans who test positive for COVID-19, either with a home test or a positive test from a lab, can download the Cue Health app and sign up with their Minnesota address to have a virtual consultation with a licensed clinician who will evaluate them to determine if therapeutic treatment is a good option. If they are a good candidate for therapeutics, the clinician can issue that prescription to the patient’s local pharmacy. In some areas of the state, those prescription medications can be delivered to the person’s home. All services, including the consultation, medication and delivery, will come at no cost to the Minnesotans who use this service. This pilot program is available to all Minnesota residents.
“This pilot program is another tool in Minnesota’s toolbox for limiting the negative impacts of COVID-19,” said Minnesota Commissioner of
Health Jan Malcolm. “Minnesotans who test positive will be able to more easily access therapeutics that can help them get on the road to recovery. We know that accessing therapeutics within five days of developing symptoms of COVID-19 can greatly improve outcomes and help Minnesotans to avoid severe illness or hospitalization. We are continuing to find new and innovative ways to reduce barriers to access for those therapeutics.”
For more information on how to access the program and for instructions on downloading and getting started with the Cue Health App, visit care. cuehealth.com/mn.
This pilot program works with any at-home or lab COVID-19 test regardless of brand. For more information on where to access at-home tests, visit https://mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/at-home/ index.jsp or check with your insurance company about ways to get free rapid tests from pharmacies. Tests should be PCR or antigen tests and not antibody blood test results.
Minnesota Department of Health• Contact your health care provider or a local pharmacy.
• Use the state’s website (https://mn.gov/covid19/ vaccine/find-vaccine/locations/index.jsp) to find vaccine providers near you—providers will update their information as appointments are available.
• Check for vaccine appointments at Vaccines.gov, where you can search for appointments by vaccine type (e.g., Pfizer).
• Watch for vaccination clinics being offered at other community locations around Minnesota.
• Walk in or schedule an appointment for a test at one of the state’s free community testing sites (https://mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/testing-locations/community-testing.jsp). Test-to-treat options are available at some locations.
• Order rapid tests through the state’s free COVID-19 at-home rapid testing program (https://mn.gov/covid19/get-tested/at-home/index. jsp).
• Check with your insurance company about ways to get free rapid tests from pharmacies.
• Find a testing option near you through the state’s find testing locations map (https://mn.gov/covid19/ get-tested/testing-locations/index.jsp.
“My wish for 2023 is that my mom does not need to do so much work.”
grade Blue Heron
“I wish for our hockey team to win Districts in 2023.”
What are the issues the state of Minnesota faces in 2023? What are the top three priorities of our local legislators at the state Capitol, and what legislation do they plan to support this coming session? These questions, among others, will be the focus of legislative interviews with Sen. Karen Housley, Rep. Patti Anderson and Rep. Josiah Hill of District 33. The interviews will take place from 10:15 a.m. to noon Jan. 14 at Wildwood Public Library, located at 763 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi. Constituents will be given the opportunity to engage in conversations with their elected representatives. The event is sponsored by the League of Women Voters White Bear Lake Area.
A Lino Lakes man has been sentenced to 289 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for drug trafficking and firearms violations in connection to the December 2021 kidnapping and torture of a man.
According to court documents, on April 11, 2021, officers with the Worthington Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Jose Angel Chapa-Aguilera, 24. The traffic stop led to a search of the vehicle. Officers located a bag containing a loaded 9 mm semi-automatic pistol and more than two pounds of methamphetamine sealed inside four bags in the spare tire compartment.
On Dec. 20, 2021, at a Brooklyn Park residence, Chapa-Aguilera confronted a man about a drug debt. During the confrontation, Chapa-Aguilera brandished a handgun, ordered the man to the ground, tied his hands behind his back, and proceeded to beat and torture the victim for hours using a heated knife and a pipe because of a perceived drug debt, according to court documents. During the torture, Chapa-Aguilera demanded money from the victim. Before leaving the residence, Chapa-Aguilera barricaded the victim in a crawlspace under the house. The victim was later able to escape and contact law enforcement. The victim suffered extensive injuries, including numerous burns, broken ribs and a large laceration above his eye, and required a blood transfusion. Law enforcement seized approximately 3 pounds of methamphetamine from Chapa-Aguilera’s residence during a search warrant executed shortly thereafter.
On Jan. 7, 2022, law enforcement located Chapa-Aguilera driving a purple-camouflage Humvee in the Twin Cities. After a high-speed pursuit, officers disabled the vehicle and pulled Chapa-Aguilera from the Humvee. Officers also recovered from the vehicle a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and several 9mm rounds of ammunition.
Chapa-Aguilera pleaded guilty Sept. 6, 2022, to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Hennepin County Violent Offender Task Force (VOTF); the Brooklyn Park Police Department; and the Worthington Police Department.
United
States Department of JusticeANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE 129, SECOND SERIES
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, on December 14, 2022, Ordinance #129, Second Series, entitled “AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING A FEE SCHEDULE FOR 2023” was adopted by the City Council of the City of Centerville, Minnesota.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that, because of the lengthy nature of Ordinance #129, Second Series the City Council has directed that a title and summary be prepared for publication pursuant to Minn. Stat. 412.191, Subd 4.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a complete, printed copy of Ordinance #129, Second Series is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at the office of the City Clerk, 1880 Main Street, Centerville, MN, or will be mailed to anyone requesting it by telephone (651) 429-3232.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the general purpose of the ordinance is to adopt fees and charges for various purposes.
Section 1.
This section adopts fees and charges including fees related to garbage/ utility account certification, utility rates and charges, animal licensing, burning permits, fees for use of right-of-ways and excavations in streets, fees for business licensing, fees and deposits related building activities, fees for sign permits, development fees including fees in lieu of park dedications, planning and zoning fees, and fees for services including supplying copies and maps, and fees for vacation of streets and easements.
Section 2.
This section authorizes this summary of the ordinance be published in lieu of the entire text of the ordinance.
Section 3.
This section provides that the ordinance is effective on publication of this summary.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the City Council has by at least a 4/5 vote, approved this Public Notice.
APPROVED this 14th day of December, 2022.
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on December 27, 2022.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents :
• Officers responded to a personal injury crash involving two cars at the intersection of Birch Street and Hokah Drive Dec. 13. One driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital by a family member.
• A community service officer received an animal complaint about a dog running through yards in the 7800 block of Marilyn Drive Dec. 13. The complaint was documented.
• A community service officer was dispatched to a report of two dogs running into traffic near Main Street and Rondeau Lake Road East Dec. 13. The officer was unable to locate the dogs.
• An officer conducted a traffic stop for several traffic violations in the area of 80th Street and 20th Avenue N. Dec. 14. Upon making contact, the officer observed an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. The driver was identified and cited for underage possession of alcohol.
• Officers were dispatched to a two-vehicle personal injury accident in the 7500 block of Lake Drive Dec. 15. One driver was transported to the hospital by ambulance.
• Officers and fire personnel responded to a report of a tree touching a powerline in the 7000 block of Sunrise Drive Dec. 15. Upon arrival, there were no signs of smoke or fire. The power company was advised of the incident.
• Officers conducted a traffic stop for a traffic violation in the area of Town Center Parkway and Lake Drive Dec. 15. Officers learned the adult male’s driver’s license was canceled inimical to public safety. The driver was then placed under arrest and booked into jail.
• An officer responded to a report of a theft of signs in the 7900 block of 20th Avenue Dec. 15. An investigation did not yield any suspects, and the incident was documented.
• An officer was dispatched to a call of snowmobiles being driven at Sunrise Park Dec. 15. The officer checked the area and was unable to locate the snowmobiles. Extra patrol will be provided.
• An officer assisted a neighboring agency by responding to a disorderly conduct incident in the 6900 block of 20th Avenue Dec. 15. The neighboring agency is handling the investigation.
• Officers responded to a report of a powerline sparking in the 900 block of Ash Street Dec. 15. The utility company was advised of the problem.
• Officers responded to a call of an injured deer at a business in the 6700 block of Lake Drive Dec. 16. The deer was dispatched and later removed.
• Officers responded to a phone call related to a vandalism report in the 8200 block of 20th Avenue Dec. 16. After speaking with the complainant, it was determined the incident was a hit-and-run property damage crash, as the complainant’s mail box was hit by an unknown vehicle. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer took a theft report in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway Dec. 16. The incident was documented and is under investigation.
• An officer responded to a delayed report of suspicious activity at a school in the 500 block of Birch Street Dec. 16. The incident was documented, and extra patrol was requested.
• A community service officer received a complaint regarding possible animal abuse at an address on Watermark Way Dec. 16. The officer is investigating the complaint.
• Officers responded to a neighbor dispute in the 6600 block of East Shadow Lake Drive Dec. 16. The person was advised of the complaint, and the incident was documented.
• An officer responded to a theft of fuel report in the 7000 block of 21st Avenue South Dec. 16. The incident was documented and is under investigation.
• An officer took a theft report from a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive Dec. 17. The investigation is ongoing.
• While assisting another agency, an officer stopped a vehicle for speeding in the 12500 block of Main Street Dec. 17. The driver showed signs of impairment and was arrested for DWI. The driver was later charged by citation.
• Extra patrol was requested in the 700 block of Lake Drive Dec. 18.
• An officer responded to a vehicle in the ditch in the 400 block of Ash Street Dec. 18. After an investigation, the driver was arrested for third-degree DWI and booked into the Anoka County Jail.
• Officers and firefighters responded to a call of a residential garage on fire in the 200 block of Techla Court Dec. 18. An officer found it was actually a snowmobile that had initially caught fire, but the fire had been extinguished. The fire division handled the investigation.
• An officer stopped a vehicle that didn’t have a front license plate in the 2000 block of Ash Street Dec. 19. The adult male driver was cited for driving after revocation and given a warning for possession of drug paraphernalia.
• An officer responded to a property damage accident involving three vehicles in the 400 block of I-35W Dec. 19. The officer completed a state crash report due to the damage amount.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following incidents:
• Officers made contact with an adult male in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington Dec. 14 who had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was subsequently arrested.
• Officers received a suspicious activity report from the 3800 block of Patriot Lane in Lexington Dec. 15.
• A civil dispute was reported in the 6900 block of 20th Avenue in Centerville Dec. 15.
• Police responded to the 9300 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington Dec. 15 for a civil dispute. An adult female was subsequently arrested on an outstanding warrant.
• Officers responded to the 4000 block of Lovell Road in Lexington Dec. 16 for possible drugs.
• Police were dispatched to the area of Oak Leaf Lane and Oak Road in Circle Pines Dec. 17 on report of an abandoned vehicle. Police subsequently learned the vehicle was stolen out of Dakota County.
• An officer observed a traffic violation near the intersection of Lake Drive and Albert Avenue in Lexington Dec. 17. An adult male was subsequently arrested for DWI.
• Officers were dispatched to a property damage accident in the 9200 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington Dec. 18. Officers documented the incident in a report and assisted the involved drivers in exchanging information.
• Police conducted a warrant service attempt in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington Dec. 20. Police successfully located the suspect and found them to also be violating an active do not contact order. The suspect was arrested and transported to the Anoka County Jail.
• Officers responded to the 4100 block of Lovell Road in Lexington Dec. 20 on a report of a neighbor dispute.
Being a Minnesota Vikings fan is not easy sometimes. After witnessing many heartbreaks in past games, nothing could have prepared me for the biggest comeback in NFL history.
I was driving to a friend’s house to watch the game between the Vikings and Indianapolis Colts. When I got into my car, the score was 0-3. Before I knew it, the score was 0-33 before halftime. I was listening to Paul Allen on KFAN and couldn’t believe how the Vikings could have gotten themselves into such a pickle. How embarrassing. When I finally got to my friends house, people were telling me how bad it was. Being true Vikings fans, we continued to watch the game and endure the suffering that we’ve been used to all of these years. However, the impossible happened.
Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins said cornerback Patrick Peterson told him at halftime that the defense would stop the Colts and all he needed to do was get five touchdowns. Easy, peasy right? Not that easy, but not impossible for Kirk and his offensive weapons — Justin Jefferson, Adam Thielen, Dalvin Cook and K.J. Osborn.
I f you watched the game, you know what I am talking about. Winning that game in overtime was amazing. The Vikings aren’t a perfect team, in fact there is no perfect team in the NFL. Parity, turnovers and penalties can change the game immensely. Mental toughness is key for players and play calling is essential.
W hen I watched ESPN the next morning, I was surprised that the top story was not the biggest comeback in NFL history but the Buffalo Bills coming back to beat the Miami Dolphins. What the heck! If this would have been Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady, or Aaron Rodgers pulling off the biggest comeback ever, it would have been the top story in sports media and they would be praised. Cousins doesn’t get the credit he deserves from the national sports media. Some sportscasters call him and the Vikings a “fraud.” I recall Kansas City coming back from a lot of games the year they won the Superbowl. In fact, they were down by quite a bit at the Superbowl and came back to win the game. It’s very frustrating.
T here is something special about the team this year. I’m not saying they are going to win the Superbowl but they are special. They have a great locker room and play as a team. Watching Cook being interviewed by KFAN’s Ben Leiber after the game says it all. Cook thanked the fans for sticking around and gave credit to all of his teammates for the comeback win. Leiber was so excited as well. It’s just so great to watch this team this season.
Even if you’re not a football fan, you can take a lesson from this game. Never give up no matter what obstacles are in your way. All you can do is try and you might be surprised by the outcome. For better or worse, I will always be a Vikings fan through the good, the bad and the ugly.
We measure our lives by time, events, goals and seasons. We look forward to events that we have planned, and we reminisce about the times we have had. Autumn turns to winter just as rain turns to snow, and we see the landscape here in Minnesota change as we mark off the days and weeks that lead us to the moments of our lives that bring us fulfilment. Sometimes the change of seasons, and our lives, is hard. But that is part of the amazing process of growing.
For the past two years I have been blessed with being your state representative. A singular honor that I will treasure for the rest of my life. But seasons change, and so do districts, and as it has since 1858 when Minnesota became a state, our Republic has been refreshed with an election. What we will do with it remains to be seen, but we remain hopeful. And we look for reason.
During this time of transition, I have been reflecting on finding the reason for the way that things turn the way that they do. I have been immeasurably blessed to be a part
of this community. From being born in Saint Paul, to entering the Army from the Minneapolis MEPS, to spending the past 32 years here in Minnesota with my wife and our four children, our great community has been our home.
And I appreciate each and every person who invested their time, and applied their talents, to telling our community the reasons why I asked for their vote. Each of you have my appreciation. You went above and beyond and did the hard work. Thank you.
President Kennedy famously counseled us to ask not for ourselves, but for what we can do to make our country better. That seems to me to be the reason. To live and grown together, to raise our children in a safe community. To work and play, to laugh and pray. To be a community that cares deeply and gives thoughtfully.
As the State Legislature gavels back into session in 2023, they will face the same question: what is best for our community, our state, and our nation? Each decision and each bill should meet this test: “Will this bill make Minnesota better? ”
And those bills that do not should be rejected.
The next two years will be telling for all of us. With one party control of the House, the Senate, and the Governorship, there are
very few mechanisms in place to put each of the bills that are introduced to that test. And this will be in a year with a record surplus and an economy that is just now emerging from a global crisis.
The opportunities to imagine all the things that could be done with the surplus are in many ways unprecedented. And perhaps the mood of the legislature is such that their imagination is unencumbered by a divided government as it has been in the most recent past. From the proposals that have been floated so far there is little doubt that the appetite our government has for increasing spending will soon subside.
Special interest groups have been lining up by the score to help the legislature imagine the many things that could be done with your money. Will they succumb to these tantalizing entreaties, or will they look to the future and prepare our state for what comes next? Will these bills meet the test? Or will our legislature simply find a reason to spend your money?
God Bless us all, Merry Christmas, and from my family to yours, Happy New Year. Hopefully that is reason enough to smile.
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MINNESOTA RESOLUTION #2022-153
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING COMPENSATION AND EXPENSE AMOUNTS FOR ANOKA COUNTY EMPLOYEES, UNCLASSIFIED EMPLOYEES, APPOINTED DIVISION MANAGERS, DEPARTMENT HEADS, ELECTED OFFICIALS, AND COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR 2023
ADOPTED: DECEMBER 2, 2022
WHEREAS, adjustments to compensation levels of governmental units are considered on an annual basis; and, WHEREAS, the total compensation package must be affordable for Anoka County; and, WHEREAS, the compensation levels of non-bargaining unit employees, unclassified employees, division managers, department heads, and elected officials for 2023 need to be established before the end of this year; and,
WHEREAS, the Personnel Rules and Regulations of Anoka County, Minnesota, adopted by the county board, provide that the Chief Human Resources Officer shall annually review the salary levels and make recommended changes; and, WHEREAS, the Chief Human Resources Officer has completed said review for program year 2023 and has recommended to the Anoka County Board of Commissioners that the potential salary rate of all county employees be increased as described below, except for specific exclusions as are on file in Human Resources:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the general adjustment for 2023 is zero (0) percent on January 1, 2023. Individual established salaries of non-bargaining unit county employees, unclassified employees, the county administrator, division managers, and department heads may increase by a performance-based range movement of up to three (3) percent, and may be distributed on the basis of documented job performance on file in Human Resources, subject to availability of funds. The approval authority for these job performance increases is hereby delegated to the Management Committee.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that regular county employees who are in collective bargaining agreements with the county or temporary employees are specifically excluded from the pay increase portion of this resolution and all other matters covering terms and conditions of employment except as provided in this paragraph. Pay increases for union employees are governed by their collective bargaining agreements.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Anoka County commissioners’ annualized salary for 2023 will be $87,984.00, pursuant to the provisions of Minnesota Statute Sections 375.055 and 383E.01, and that pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 383E.02, an expense allowance, in lieu of seven-county metropolitan area mileage and other unreimbursed business-related county expenses, for county commissioners and chair of the county board shall be a maximum of $7,500 for each commissioner and $8,500 for the board chair. These expense allowances shall be in addition to the 2023 annual salary figure stated herein and shall be treated as compensation except to the extent for which the funds are expended and accounted for. Other expenses incurred by/for commissioners while performing their duties outside the seven-county metropolitan area shall be reimbursed or directly paid in the same manner as county employees.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that for 2023 the county attorney’s annual salary shall be $193,731.20 and the sheriff’s annual salary shall be $180,003.20.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the elected officials shall be entitled to the same benefits as provided other Anoka County employees, except for flexible time off and extended medical benefit.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that this resolution is posted on the official county bulletin board and copies be forwarded immediately to each department of the county and the Association of Minnesota Counties. Published one time in the Quad Community Press on December 27, 2022.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL BOARD WORK STUDY SESSION SUMMARY NOVEMBER 7, 2022
(Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-792-6010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NOTICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; November 7,2022.
1. CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Guthmueller called the Work Study Session to order at 5:32 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. ROLL CALL The following members were present: Guthmueller, ex-officio Holmberg, Linser, Timm, Knisely, Bettinger. The following member was absent: Vollbrecht. 3. MATH CURRICULUM REVIEW UPDATE Our current math curriculum resources will no longer be available after the 2022-2023 school year. Executive Director of Teaching & Learning Mark Grossklaus along with Teaching & Learning Coordinator Laurie Shawki gave an update on the Math Curriculum Review process so far and the timeline moving forward. The presentation is included in board packets. 4. A/I PLAN OVERVIEW & LEVY OVERVIEW Executive Director of Business Services and Executive Director of Teaching & Learning Mark Grossklaus gave an overview of the A/I Plan and Levy. 5. FIRST READING – POLICIES WITH NON-SUBSTANTIVE & SUBSTANTIVE UPDATES Non-Substantive: 201 Legal Status of the School Board, 202 School Board Officers, 206 Public Participation, 533 Wellness. Substantive: 416 Drug and Alcohol Testing, 722 Public Data Requests. 6. BOARD MEMBER ROLES WHEN SERVING ON OUTSIDE OF DISTRICT COMMITTEES (ie. 916, CAEF, AMSD, MSBA, SEE) Members who serve on committees outside of the district are given the opportunity to report at board meetings. We will be compiling a list of committees with a description of what their roles are. 7. COMMUNICATION 7.1. Work Session Live Streaming - The discussion continued about whether or not to live stream work sessions. It was the consensus of the board that, for the time being, work sessions would not be live streamed. 7.2. Public Comment Overview – The only revision made was a name change from Public Forum to Public Comment. 7.3. Board Listening Session Overview - Continuation of the discussion about having public listening sessions throughout the year. These sessions might be scheduled quarterly, one-half hour before a board meeting. Superintendent Holmberg is working on a draft document which will be brought back to the Board for further discussion at the next work session. 8. OTHER UPDATES Executive Director Chaffey gave a water quality update. He will give another update at the next board meeting. 9. ADJOURN at 7:27 p.m.
Sue Linser, School Board Clerk
Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson Published one time in the Quad Community Press on December 27, 2022.
12 SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY NOVEMBER 15, 2022 (Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-792-6010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NO-
TICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; November 15,2022.
1. CALL TO ORDER Chairperson Guthmueller called the Special Meeting of the School Board to order at 7:30 a.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. ROLL CALL The following members were present: Linser, Timm, Knisely, Guthmueller, ex-officio Holmberg. The following members were absent: Vollbrecht, Bettinger. 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion to approve the agenda by Timm, seconded by Linser. Vote: 4-0-0, motion carried unanimously. 4.
NOVEMBER 8 SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION – CANVASS 4.1. Resolution Canvassing Returns of Votes of School District General Election - Motion to adopt the Resolution Canvassing Returns of Votes of School District General Election by Timm, seconded by Linser. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Guthmueller, Knisely, Timm, Linser. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 4.2. Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Certificates of Election for General Election and Directing School District Clerk to Perform Other Election Related Duties - Motion to adopt the Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Certificates of Election for General Election and Directing School District Clerk to Perform Other Election Related Duties by Timm, seconded by Linser. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Guthmueller, Timm, Knisely, Linser. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 5. NOVEMBER 8 SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION – CANVASS Resolution Canvassing Returns of Votes of School District Special Election 5.1. Motion to adopt the Resolution Canvassing Returns of Votes of School District Special Election by Timm, seconded by Knisely. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Guthmueller, Knisely, Timm, Linser. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously.
the water filtration/quality. 10.3. Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution - Motion to adopt the Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution by Knisely, seconded by Timm. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Guthmueller, Bettinger, Johnson, Timm, Knisely, Linser. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 11. SUPPLEMENTAL ITEMS 11.1. Adoption of Policies with Non-Substantive & Substantive Updates: Policy 201 Legal Status of the School Board; Policy 202 School Board Officers; Policy 206 Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations; Policy 533 Wellness; Policy 416 Drug and Alcohol Testing, Policy 722 Public Data Requests. The Superintendent of Schools recommends adoption of the policies with non-substantive and substantive updates. Motion to adopt the policies with non-substantive and substantive updates by Timm, Bettinger. Vote: 6-0-0, motion carried unanimously. 11.2. Approval of Revised 2022-2023 School Board Meeting Schedule - Motion to approve the revised 2022-2023 School Board Meeting Schedule by Knisely, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0, motion carried unanimously. 12. COMMUNICATION As warranted and available, School Board members will report significant activities of and/or actions by organizations in which the school district holds membership and/or serves in a governance capacity. 12.1. AMSD. 12.2. CAEF. 12.3. MSBA. 12.4. NE Metro 916. 12.5. SEE. 12.6. District Committee Reports. 13. SUPERINTENDENT REPORT 14. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS 14.1. Dates to Note. 15. ADJOURN Motion to adjourn by Bettinger, seconded by Knisely. Vote: 6-0-0, motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 8:22 p.m.
Sue Linser, School Board Clerk
Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on December 27, 2022.
OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning & Zoning Board of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following: • Phelps Road Stockpiling - PID #24-31-22-42-0004
- Conditional Use Permit for Earth Moving and Land Reclamation
For further information regarding the above items, please contact City Engineer, Diane Hankee, at 651-982-2430. Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.
Hannah Lynch, City Clerk Published one time in the Quad Community Press on December 27, 2022.
2023 STREET REHABILITATION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of 2023 Street Rehabilitation Project will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Thursday, January 26, 2023 at 10:00 am local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Lino Lakes will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 1.305.224.1968 and entering Meeting ID 961 9202 1929 and Passcode 392609. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening.
The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following approximate quantities: 23,000 S Y Mill Bituminous Pavement 5,000 S Y Full Depth Reclamation 1,300 L F Remove and Replace Concrete Curb and Gutter 3,200 TON Type SP 9.5 Wearing Course Mix (2,B) 950 TON Type SP 12.5 Non Wear Course Mix (2,B) 12 EACH Remove and Replace Gate Valve (6” to 12”) 50 LF 12” Ductile Iron Watermain 40 EACH Catch Basin Repairs 170 LF 21” Concrete Storm Sewer 750 S Y Restoration - Sod
The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Lino Lakes shall comply with the provisions of the statute.
Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www.questcdn.com Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $45 by inputting Quest project #8338630 on the website’s Project Search page.
The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources. Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.
The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days.
For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.
DATED: December 12, 2022
BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Julie Bartell, City Clerk City of Lino Lakes
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on December 27, 2022 and January 3, 2023.
1,501,7501,622,9161,663,216
58,09677,80982,214
Monthly Disbursements.
of Absence. 8.4. Field Trips. The Superintendent of Schools recommends approval of the Consent Agenda Items as detailed in the enclosures. Motion to approve the Consent Agenda Items by Knisely, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0, motion carried unanimously. 9. CURRICULUM 10.1. Approval of the 2023-2024 School Calendar - The Executive Director of Teaching & Learning recommends approval of the 2023-2024 student and staff school calendars. Motion to approve the 2023-2024 student and staff school calendars by Bettinger, seconded by Johnson. Vote: 6-0-0, motion carried unanimously. 10.2. Water Quality/Filtration Update - The Executive Director of Business Services gave an update on
Her goal was to become an attorney, but that changed. Sydney Mortenson, who grew up in Lino Lakes and graduated from Centennial High School in 2014, went on to earn a degree in political science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She had joined the National Guard as a high school senior, and went to basic training a week after graduating from Centennial.
The daughter of Realtors Denise and Daniel Mortenson is now a second lieutenant (2LT), earning that rank after extensive training at Camp Ripley (Minnesota), Camp Lee (Virginia) and Camp Rucker (Alabama). It was while training as a paralegal specialist at Fort Ripley that a Blackhawk helicopter caught her interest.
States all across the nation are facing teacher shortages amid the pandemic and fewer
graduates nationwide are choosing to pursue careers in education.
Back for its second year, Centennial High School is offering an elective course called “Grow Your Own Career Exploration” for students who are interested in exploring a future in education while earning college credits.
Some residents who live at the Landings of Lexington on the corner of Lexington Avenue and Lovell Road want their voices to be heard about several ongoing issues.
The Quad Community Press Press previously reported on problems with parking, safety and alleged discrimination back in July 2020. Now, two years later, residents say they are still facing many of the same problems.
Some of the Somali residents say they feel targeted and discriminated against by property management (Dominium) and other Landings residents.
Logan,
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Their missed connection turned into 63 years of marriage. Bernard and Diane Rappa have one of those love stories that make us wonder about the power of fate.
The pair originally met during their freshman year while they attended college in Chicago.
BLAINE — At 11:39 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, the Spring Lake Park – Blaine – Mounds View Fire Department (SBM) along with response partners from Centennial Fire District (CFD), Lexington Fire Department and Lino Lakes Public Safety Fire Division, were dispatched to a report of a structure fire in the yard at Fleet Farm, located at 10250 Lexington Ave. NE in Blaine.
SBM/CFD Chief Charlie Smith says crews observed a very large column of black smoke coming from the area of Fleet Farm. Upon their arrival,
crews found a fast-moving fire in a large amount of palletized fertilizer, patio furniture, deer stands and other plastic/wood combustibles. Flame heights reached more than 50 feet high. A second crew from CFD along with crews from Coon Rapids, Ham Lake, Andover, Fridley and Lake Johanna also responded. The Blaine Police Department and Allina EMS also responded.
One firefighter was injured and treated at the scene by Allina EMS.
A brother and sister have been found guilty of murder for their roles in a robbery that left a Lino Lakes man dead in August 2020.
Nicholas Zielinski pleaded guilty Jan. 4, 2022, to one count of seconddegree intentional murder (not premeditated). His sister, Melissa Zielinski, was found guilty by an Anoka County jury Feb. 3, 2022, of three counts of aiding and abetting murder.
Melissa Zielinski was charged in September 2020 with aiding and abetting second-degree intentional murder (not premeditated). In November 2021, a grand jury indicted her on aiding and abetting first-
The Centennial School District is one of two districts in the north metro that does not have an Achievement and Integration (A&I) plan in place. That will not, however, be the case for long.
According to the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), there are 171 districts that are participating in the A&I program for the 202122 school year. For several months now, Centennial Schools has been working on developing an A&I plan that will help the district pursue racial and economic integration, increase student achievement, create equitable educational opportunities and reduce academic disparities.
Anoka County Parks Naturalist Sue Dahl explains the process of wood fire evaporation used to create maple syrup from sap collected from trees during the recent Maple Syrup Festival at Wargo Nature Center. In Minnesota, sap usually runs from March 15 to April 20.
The plan requires that the district form a partnership with a neighboring district. In this case, Centennial will partner with Spring Lake Park Schools (ISD 16). The district then needs to develop a list of goals and come up with strategies that support those goals.
Districts that qualify and participate in the program have access to special funding.
degree intentional murder while committing aggravated robbery. A third charge was added before jury deliberations as a lesser-included count of aiding and abetting seconddegree unintentional murder. After approximately three hours of deliberation, the jury found her guilty of all charges.
(On March 23, Melissa Zielinski was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole. Based on a plea agreement, Nicholas received a sentence of nearly 19 years in prison.)
Cheryl Heilman was waiting at a bus stop when she looked down and saw a strangely colorful rock. It piqued her interest, so she turned the rock over to discover a label with information to a community she didn’t know existed.
It’s all a part of an effort to make people smile by leaving behind decorated rocks, often called kindness rocks, in random locations for people to stumble upon. Since discovering the community three years ago, Heilman estimates she has decorated and hidden approximately 500 rocks.
LINO LAKES — Discussions on constructing a water treatment facility will continue this spring, following the city’s receipt of recommendations from a pilot study.
The three main parameters the study focused on was the removal of manganese, iron and ammonia. The study revealed that iron levels are already below the target the city is trying to achieve, which is based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) secondary drinking standards. However, manganese levels were significantly higher than the goal and would require 88% removal to achieve the target goal.
Ammonia would also require 71% removal to achieve the target goal.
Ultimately, the study recommends that Lino Lakes use biological filtration (relies on natural microbial activity to remove contaminants).
Although her time wearing the crown will soon be over, Zophia Raleigh has no plans to stop exploring her cultural identity and spreading Irish cheer.
Raleigh, a Blaine resident, is the daughter of Rep. Donald Raleigh (R-Blaine) and Marnie Ochs-Raleigh.
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Nearly perfect winter weather, with sunshine and moderate temperatures, drew hundreds of local residents outside to the Snow Day event at Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes for a variety of outdoor activities, including kick-sledding, snowshoeing and fat tire biking. The recent event was sponsored by the Anoka County and Blaine Parks and Recreation Departments.
Raleigh is the only Miss Shamrock since the St. Patrick’s Day Association began in 1967 to hold the title for two years (2020-21). She has also been deemed the grand marshal of this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade in St. Paul.
First grade teacher Bruce Woznak said Centennial teachers need support sooner rather than later. Woznak, joined by a board room full of teachers, recently visited the school board to share an update during open mike on what teachers are facing this year. Woznak is the president of the union, or Centennial Education Association (CEA).
Woznak explained that the middle school and high school have class sizes in the 40s, which will likely be the same case for next school year. At the elementary level, there are class sizes of approximately 30, he said. In addition, special education and English Language Learner (ELL) caseloads are “off the charts.” He said the group is asking for a way to work together to find solutions, a plea that was greeted by applause from the room.
Tony Stafki, of Oak Grove, knew from an early age that he had been blessed with the gift of being artistic. He started sketching anything from cartoon characters to wildlife. At the age of 11, he caught the “painting bug” after watching Bob Ross on TV. As a teenager, he took some oil and painting classes to broaden his skills.
After high school he wasn’t sure what career path he wanted to take. Because he had been told artists don’t make money, he decided to go a different direction. He became a software engineer. He eventually decided to change pace and became house painter. After a few years of learning the trade, he combined his painting skills and artistic abilities and decided to start his own custom painting company.
LINO LAKES — What began as discussions last year during budget discussions will become a reality next month as the Public Safety Department begins its rollout of a daytime duty crew for fire response.
The City Council recently authorized the hiring of seven part-time duty crew firefighters. Once fully staffed, the city will have duty crew coverage Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The goal is to have three parttime firefighters on during those hours as a part of the duty crew in addition to one other fire staff (deputy director or fire lieutenant) during those hours.
Ten part-time duty crew firefighters are included in the 2022 budget.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is having a tremendous effect on people worldwide.
For example, Kate Bohne of Circle Pines has emerged from retirement to help teach Ukrainian children at Ljubljana International School in Slovenia. She is teaching intensive English to students in grades K-6. It’s the same school where daughter Briza teaches full time.
The Bohne family of Kate, Brian and four children — son Bryce and daughters Jessica, Katrisa and Briza — is known for its worldwide endeavors.
a new ordinance that might just help deter the catalytic convert thefts in the city.
Swenson explained that the ordinance would make it illegal to possess a catalytic converter that is not attached to a car in the city of Lino Lakes. In some scenarios, people may need to provide paperwork. For example, if you just purchased a new catalytic converter, you may need to furnish a receipt.
The ordinance was ultimately approved May 23 after a second reading.
Five members of the Centennial community now make up the Hall of Fame Class of 2022.
This year’s inductees include: Jill Becken, Elizabeth Eaton, Brian Hegseth and Jane McDonald for Distinguished Service, and Mark Mattson for Distinguished Alumnus. The Hall of Fame, established in 2013, honors alumni and individuals who have made a significant impact on Centennial Schools. The Hall of Fame has two categories: Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Service.
Madison Dorn has always loved school, but she never imagined that she would have the opportunity to return to her elementary school to teach in her very own kindergarten classroom.
Dorn graduated from Centennial High School in 2018. She then attended Bethel University and graduated in December 2021. A year later, she accepted an offer as a kindergarten teacher at Centerville Elementary.
LINO LAKES — Even though the City Council turned down a concept for a car wash in the Market Place development on Apollo Drive, it has now approved a car wash to be located off of I-35E and Main Street, west of the new Caribou Coffee.
Two separate land use applications were submitted. The first applicant, Tyme Properties LLC, submitted an Otter Crossing 2nd Addition preliminary plat to create two commercial lots. The second applicant, Bowman, submitted a CUP and site improvement performance agreement for a commercial car wash to be located on Lot 1 of the preliminary plat. The 25-acre site is located in the northwest quadrant of Otter Lake Road and CSAH 14 (Main Street) just west of the city of Hugo. The site is currently vacant commercial land that is being used for agricultural row crops.
The car wash building is proposed to be 3,500 square feet. Per Bowman’s application, Tidal Wave will provide entry through the northeast corner of the site, where customers may take advantage of the free car vacuuming services available onsite through the 28 vacuum spaces.
LINO LAKES — If everything goes as planned, the area next to City Hall could look very different in the next couple of years.
A developer is proposing to construct a marketrate, age-targeted, multi-family rental building, two restaurants and a multitenant retail building. Silver Creek Equity, LLC, has made an offer to purchase approximately 6.27 acres of the land consisting of five parcels. The property lies northwest of City Hall and is bounded by Town Center Parkway and Village Drive. Per the purchase agreement, Silver Creek Equity will purchase the property for $2,376,154.
CIRCLE PINES — Golden Lake Elementary (GLE) is gearing up for its 50th birthday celebration on Saturday, May 21. While a lot has changed over the past five decades — its student population of 400 is now the most racially diverse in the district — some things have stayed the same.
CENTERVILLE — After months of being known as “Project Banjo,” the identity of a new development in town has been revealed.
An Amazon Distribution Center will be developed in the Fairview Second Addition, after the Centerville City Council unanimously approved several key documents, including: the preliminary plat, the final plat, a conditional use permit (CUP) for a planned unit development (PUD), a developer’s agreement and a resolution in city ordinance that
A relatively new hobby has quickly turned into much more for Kyle Rawleigh.
Rawleigh, a resident of Andover, is a 2007 graduate of Centennial High School. He currently works in logistics for Republic Services, which provides trash and recycling services. But after making up a bedtime story for his kids and turning it into a published children’s book, Rawleigh now calls himself a parttime author.
The second book in his children’s chapter book series, “Chronicles of the Unicorn Kingdom,” is now available. Plans for another two books in the series are already underway.
EDA strikes deal for residential, commercial and retail
New ordinance may be ‘tool to curb’ catalytic converter thefts
LINO LAKES — The City Council is consideringencompasses all the above documents. FILE Centennial’s Hall of Fame has five new inductees. They are: (from left) Brian Hegseth, Elizabeth Eaton, Mark Mattson, Jane McDonald and Jill Becken. (Navy veteran and Centennial grad Derek Hookom accepted the award on his friend Mattson’s behalf and Jill Becken’s husband Pete Becken accepted the award on Jill’s behalf.)
A group of approximately 55 Ukrainians now have the opportunity to escape from the traumas of war, play some soccer and sightsee across the state of Minnesota. It’s all a part of the Hope for Ukraine Youth Refugee Tour, organized by Source Minnesota. Through urban outreach and antitrafficking efforts, Source’s mission is “to empower the at-risk and unreached to make a break from the past and build foundations for the future.”
According to Source Minnesota, the tour will give 13-to-16-year-old refugees the opportunity to come to the USA and escape from the trauma of war. The
tour will include uplifting interactions to reinforce and acknowledge the value of Ukraine youth, as well as encourage meaningful international cultural exchanges with youth from around the world.
LINO LAKES — The city has received a concept plan for a new residential development along Lake Drive.
The applicant, Ranger Development, has submitted a land use application for planned unit development (PUD) concept plan review. The proposed residential development, Villas on Vicky, would be located on an approximately 5-acre parcel west of CSAH 23 (Lake Drive) and south of Vicky Lane.
The concept plan proposes 23 single-family detached townhome villas. Per the applicant’s narrative, the intent would be to develop 23 housing units that are either one- or two-level with private streets and a homeowner’s association. The lot sizes range from 5,358 square feet to 11,066 square feet.
LEXINGTON — Late Council Member John Hughes left such a legacy on the city, the City Council decided to proclaim a day in his honor.
Three courts have now weighed in on whether Anoka County followed state statute when reappointing a manager to the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) Board of Managers.
The Minnesota Supreme Court has now issued an opinion that reverses the decision of the Court of Appeals and remands the case to the District Court for proceedings consistent with the Supreme Court’s opinion.
CIRCLE PINES — If you live in Circle Pines or drive through the city, you likely have come to know where the Down Under property is and what it looks like.
The property, located at 10100 Lake Drive, has sat vacant since around
And the disagreement continues.
Since May 2020, the city of Lexington and the city of Blaine haven’t been able to come to an agreement on their interconnected water system that dates back to the ’70s. The city of Blaine has now filed a lawsuit in District Court. The lawsuit claims that there is no active joint powers agreement in place between the two cities; Blaine is the sole owner of the 16-inch water main that runs through Lexington; the city of Blaine has the right to maintain infrastructure situated within Lexington; and Lexington must comply with its own ordinances regarding the issuance of right-of-way permits to the city of Blaine.
Ultimately, the city of Blaine is requesting that the court declare that the city has the right to separate its water system from the city of Lexington’s water system and close and/or separate the points of interconnection between the cities’ respective water systems.
LINO LAKES — Java Lino Retail LLC has submitted a land use application for two retail buildings and a drive-thru ATM to be located on a 1.32acre site at 601 Apollo Drive, near Dairy Queen and Discount Tire.
One building is proposed to be a 4,200-square-foot dental clinic and the other building a 2,240-squarefoot coffee shop. A drive-thru ATM would include two lanes.
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And that’s a wrap. Another Fete des Lacs is in the books and soon planning will begin for next year’s
This year’s summer festival included events like Music in the Park, Public Safety Night, Centerville Elementary Open House, kickball and cornhole tournaments, reworks, parade, car show, Bark Party, Paddle des Lacs and more.
Hughes unexpectedly passed away Monday, May 30. Hughes served the residents of Lexington for 36 years, both as a council member and as a planning commission member. He served on the Planning Commission from 1986 through 2005 and again from 2009 through 2010. Hughes also served on the City Council from 2005 through 2008 and again from 2011 through 2022.
The City Council proclaimed July 20, 2022, as John Hughes Day.
2010. The property is owned by brothers Timothy Pawlik and Thomas Pawlik. Rum River Consultants conducted an inspection and declared the property a public nuisance. Several code violations remain on the property, including a temporary fence that has been up for well over 180 days. He also said that what is left of the building’s basement is in dangerous condition.
Good Organics Farm, also known as the Cardinal farm, is the 2022 Anoka County Family Farm of the Year.
The Lino Lakes farm, which has been in the family since 1866 is celebrating its 150th anniversary. The original family owners of the farm came to the United States from Canada. Butch Cardinal now runs the family farm with his sons, Hunter and Logan, who are the sixth generation of the family to farm the land.
After 40 years of service to the community, the longtime chair of the community garden program is stepping back from his volunteer duties.
Don Bisila is the newest resident to join the list of Mayor’s Award recipients. Bisila’s award marks the 11th award Circle Pines Mayor Dave Bartholomay has given out since 2009. In addition to the award, two benches have also been installed in his honor, one near the community gardens at City Hall and one at the community gardens in Baldwin Park.
CENTERVILLE — In a decision that likely could have gone either way, the City Council has decided to move forward with a couple of projects for 2022.
In August, the council took a pause to evaluate whether it should move forward with parking lot improvements at City Hall and a thin overlay project after bids came in considerably higher than expected.
Ultimately, the council voted 4-1 to award the construction contract to Bituminous Roadways Inc. for both projects. The contractor has not yet specified when work will begin, but the projects will both be completed this construction season.
voted a finalist.
These days, social media newsfeeds can be filled with a lot of negativity. However, some area police departments won’t let that stop them from using the power of the online tool for something positive.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department, Lino Lakes Public Safety Department and the White Bear Lake Police Department all regularly utilize their Facebook pages to post lost dogs with the hopes of finding their homes quickly. Nearly all of the dogs that are posted online are reunited with their families.
For the next year, no new medical facilities will be allowed in the city.
The City Council has approved an ordinance establishing a one-year moratorium. In addition to new medical facilities, the moratorium also prohibits existing medical facilities from expanding.
City Administrator Bill Petracek explained that the topic came about after the city learned that the Northway Mall owners and their leasing agent are in the process of negotiating with a nationwide drug (methadone) rehabilitation clinic to be located on their property.
Candice Amundson spent eight years of her life living in constant fear. Once her child’s life was in danger, she knew she had to get out of that situation.
Amundson is one of the more than 10 million women and men that have experienced physical abuse by an intimate partner in the U.S.
The votes are in, and a fifth grade teacher at Blue Heron Elementary has risen to the top.
Curt Gutbrod was selected the Best Teacher in the 2022 Best of the Press Readers’ Choice Contest. Megan Fritz from Centennial Elementary was also
Granny’s Closet is in need of approximately 50 more Angels to step up this holiday season for its Angel Program.
Granny’s Closet is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve quality of life for both seniors and adults with disabilities by partnering with community members and agencies in Anoka and Sherburne counties.
All branches of the Anoka County Library (ACL) have launched a new program to foster the joy of reading in young children and boost their literacy skills through mentorship and creative play.
Next month families will be able to register for the winter/spring session. The idea for the program came about through some strategic planning sessions ACL held back in 2019. During that process, ACL staff discussed trends they were seeing as well as requests they had received from patrons.
This year marks Gutbrod’s 41st year of teaching. Thirty-six of those have been at Centennial. He taught at Centennial Elementary until Blue Heron Elementary was constructed.
It’s been three years since the conflict began, but there is now a resolution.
Three courts have weighed in, one of them twice, on whether Anoka County followed state statutes when reappointing a manager to the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) Board of Managers.
Last week, the District Court released its findings of fact, conclusions of law and and judgment. The court found that “no rational trier of fact could find that the county of Anoka truly considered whether (Patricia) Preiner could
fairly represent the various hydrologic areas within the watershed district.” Both county appointees resided in the city of Columbus. The District Court declared that Preiner was improperly appointed and thus her appointment should be void, effective immediately. The county was ordered to fill the vacancy on the board as soon as possible.
When: 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, through Jan. 31
Where: Washington County Historic Courthouse, Pine and Third Streets, Stillwater
Details: Short introductory video followed by a tour of the courtroom, 1900s county jail, and exhibitions. Hear stories of the building’s construction and the people who worked there. Free; donations accepted.
Contact: 651-275-7075 or co.washington. mn.us/hc
When: 8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily through February
Where: Water Street Inn, 101 Water St. S.
Details: Free skating for all ages in downtown Stillwater. Bring your own skates. Schedule subject to change Contact: 651-439-6000 or discoverstillwater.com
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday Dec. 29; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.
Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
DROP-IN 55+ FITNESS CLASSES
When: 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays
Where: Rice Lake Centre, east end of Hugo Public Works building, 6900 137th Street N.
Details: Free fitness classes for Hugoarea adults 55+ by Live 2B Healthy. Class designed for seniors to help
Associated Eye Care now open
LINO LAKES — Associated Eye Care is now up and running in its new building, a short drive from its former location in Hugo. The new building is located at 2380 Rosemary Way.
improve balance, strength, and flexibility in a group setting. Periodic fitness tests so participants can track their progress. Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
HOMETOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS
When: through Dec. 31 Where: Downtown Stillwater Details: Free family events happening every weekend through Dec. kick-off with Black Friday shopping deals at downtown shops and restaurants; also include Wintertime in Stillwater Lights Show, costumed Victorian carolers, caroling Biercycle tours, holiday tea
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events, horse-drawn wagon rides, photos with Santa, New Years Eve ball drop, and more. See schedule and details online.
Contact: DiscoverStillwater.com/events
LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD
When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27 Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview Details: Socialize with other quilters at the holiday party. $5/guest. Contact: LakeshoreQuiltGuild@gmail. com
STRATEGY GAME BUFFET
When: 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28 Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St. Details: Learn and play the latest
multi-player tabletop strategy games, imcluding card and board games. Grades 4-8; no registration required. Contact: 651-724-6007 or rclreads.org
LUNCH AND TABLE GAMES
When: noon Wednesday, Dec. 28 Where: Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights
Details: Bring a bag lunch and play table games with friends. Coffee provided. Contact: 651-204-6000 or cityvadnaisheights.com/seniors
LET’S CLAY! ARCTIC ANIMALS
When: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Wednesday. Dec. 28 Where: Shoreview Library, 4560 Victoria St. Details: Sculpt animals using oven safe clay. For ages 7-11; registration required. Contact: rclreads.org
INTRODUCTION
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
When: 2-4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30 Where: Chomonix Golf Course, 700 Aqua Ln., Lino Lakes
Details: Entry level skiing class covers basics of Nordic skiing and time on the trail. Ages 10+; equipment provided. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
NEWS YEAR’S EVE COMEDY SHOW
When: 6:30 & 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31 Where: Running Aces Comedy Club, 15201 Zurich St., Forest Lake Details: Shows with Headliner Mike Brody, featuring Sherlonda Sharp, and hosted by Jason Schommer. Contact: 651-925-4600 or runaces.com
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3 Where: Blaione Wetland Sanctuary, 11980 Lexington Ave. NE Details: Hike is approx. 3 miles. Contact: stpaulhike.com
1-490-508 2
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 dwellings 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
The White Bear Lake Area Historical Society seeks two Collection Inventory Specialists (CIS) to inventory the Society’s 3D object collection. For full position description and qualifications, please visit whitebearhistory.org. This is a grant funded, temporary, project position with a scheduled ending date of November 30, 2023. $19/hour, average of 35 hours/week.
Please submit your resume and cover letter to Sara Hanson, Executive Director, WBLAHS, sara@whitebearhistory.org or PO Box 10543, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
Applications will be considered through January 13, 2023.
IMMEDIATE - Full-Time employment opportunity with great benefits for a parts runner / shop helper at our Lino Lakes facility.DAYTIME HOURSIMMEDIATE OPENINGS Emergency Apparatus Maintenance, Inc provides full service and repair of fire apparatus, ambulances and other emergency vehicles. Due to our rapid growth and expansion we are looking for professional, reliable parts runner and shop helper to join our team.
Job Requirements: Pre-employment physical and drug screen required. Good driving record. Must have a Class B CDL license.
Excellent Benefits: medical/dental/life insurance, Holiday/Vacation pay and a HUGE retirement plan. Also, uniforms provided.
Go to our website to apply, www.eamservice.com or call (651) 786-4463
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
Looking for an individual with good attention to details, that can work with our city Legals on a weekly basis. Also, to be able work on obits and help coordinate with family’s or funeral homes to place obits in our weekly papers. This position could have some back up in certain departments as well.
solver
Willingness to be a team player
In January, the school board will see welcome some new members, including Gloria Murphy and Jessica Schwinn. Craig Johnson, winner of the special election, has already been seated; current board member Tom Knisely will stick around for another term.
Superintendent Jeff Holmberg recently took some time to recognize outgoing school board members Suzy Guthmueller, Kathryn Timm and Robert Vollbrecht.
Guthmueller served on the school board for 20 years and held the role of chair for the last three years. In addition to serving on numerous district committees over the years, she also served as a member of other organizations, including Schools for Equity in Education (SEE) and the Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA).
“She has made an impact on our schools through her guidance, partnership and willingness to serve for two decades making a difference in the lives of students and staff,” Holmberg said. “Suzy has worked tirelessly to help provide opportunities for students, and mentored new school board members at Centennial as well in the region.”
Guthmueller responded, “Being elected to the board and the ability to serve the students, parents, staff and community of Centennial in this capacity has been such an honor and
a privilege … I served with my whole heart. Being a school board member has been a way of life for our family … I have truly enjoyed it.”
At the MSBA annual Leadership Conference Jan. 12-13 at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Guthmueller will be named to the MSBA 2023 All State School Board, the organization’s
• MSA Professional Services Inc. will prepare a feasibility report on a proposed improvement project for Dunlap Avenue in 2023. The improvements would be made to Dunlap Avenue between Restwood Road and Flowerfield Road and would include milling the surface and placing bituminous overlay with street repairs as needed.
• The city continues to work through the audit process with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). As a part of the audit, and to successfully obtain its stormwater discharge permit, City Administrator Bill Petracek explained that the city is required to amend Chapter 13 (Stormwater Management Regulations). The council already held the first reading of the amended ordinance, and will conduct the second reading in January.
most prestigious award. MSBA selects up to seven individual board members to the All-State School Board from the nearly 2,400 school board members in Minnesota each year. Members are nominated by superintendents, other school board members and parents or community members, and are evaluated for MSBA training,
strong leadership and a demonstration of concern for students, staff and the community.
Timm served on the school board for eight years. In addition to serving on several district committees during her service, she also served on the Centennial Area Education Foundation (CAEF) board as well as a member of the Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School Board.
“Thank you for making a difference in the lives of students and for your service,” Holmberg said.
Timm responded, “I really have enjoyed, maybe not during COVID, the time that I had on the school board and the opportunities that it has given me to serve … It has been a really wonderful opportunity to serve our neighborhoods, our students and our community and our teachers and staff. I truly am grateful for having that opportunity for these last eight years.”
Vollbrecht was appointed in November 2021 to a one-year term after former board member Stephanie Carlson resigned. Holmberg thanked Vollbrecht for stepping up to fill the need and sharing his expertise gained from serving on the Jordan Public Schools Board. “Thank you for coming on board, serving this past year, lending your experience and making a difference in our school community.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
“There are a lot of minor amendments … This is a necessity to get us through this audit,” Petracek said.
• The Lexington Fire Department will donate multiple self-contained breather apparatuses (SCBAs) to Century College to be used for its firefighter training program. The apparatuses are no longer able to be used for real-life emergencies, as they are past their allowable working life span. Due to the age of the equipment, replacement parts are hard to find. The department has already purchased and placed into service new SCBAs that are up to date with the newest technology and should have a working life span of approximately 10 years.
• The Dairy Queen, located at 4131 Woodland Road, has received its business license for 2023.
• Mayor Mike Murphy said it has been an honor to
serve the city during his time on the City Council. New Mayor Gary Grote will take over in January.
Council Member Kim DeVries thanked Murphy for his time and said he appreciated working with him.
“We all accomplished a lot together. We definitely shared a lot of heartache, with Council Member (John) Hughes passing away, and all of the projects and everything that we did and built. It has been an honor,” Murphy said. “I’m looking forward to the next step and what lies ahead … I wish our new mayor success and the city will move forward.”
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 5, at City Hall.
Shannon GranholmThe Centennial swimming squad placed second of nine teams in the Blaine Invitational on Dec. 17. Top three teams were Hudson, Wisconsin with 509.5, Centennial 319.5, and Blaine 279.
The Cougars have also won their last two dual meets.
At Blaine, Max Scheurer won the individual medley (2:00.88) and breaststroke (57.57), lowering his school record in the latter.
George Atkinson was third in the backstroke (1:00.86). Ben Condon was fifth in both the 50 free (24.59 and 100 free (52.78). Placing seventh were Joseph Murray in the 50, Alex Larkin in butterfly and Ben Schuhbauer in 500 free.
Tyler Celotta was ninth
in diving.
The medley relay placed second with Atkinson, Scheurer, Larkin and Condon. The 400 free relay placed third with Condon, Schuhbauer, Murray, and Atkinson.
On Tuesday, the Cougars nipped Blaine 93-91. Event winners were Atkinson (200 and 500 freestyle), Isaac
Nguyen (IM), Celotta (diving), Scheurer (100 free), Larkin (backstroke) and the medley relay and 200 free relay.
The Cougars beat Anoka 101-82 on Dec. 15 with first-places from Scheurer (200 and 500 free), Atkinson (IM and butterfly), Condon (100 free), and all three relays.
The Centennial girls basketball team has a 3-5 record, albeit against a daunting early-season schedule, after losing at home to White Bear Lake 5546 on Tuesday evening.
The five teams they’ve lost to have a combined 29-7 record.
The Bears (8-1) were up 47-36 before Centennial’s 6-foot post Autumn McCall hit a 3-pointer from the top of the key, and, after grabbing a defensive rebound, drove from the same spot to sink a contested layup, pulling the Cougars within six points with 4:30 left. The Bears controlled the ball for a minute, though, and got a layup that increased the lead back to 49-41, regaining control.
Marisa Frost sank 14 points, Jordan Metz 13 and McCall nine for the Cougars. Jordyn Schmittdiel netted 14 points and Addison Post 13 for White Bear Lake. The Bears, with tenacious
Centennial took a 2-0 lead but could not hold off Maple Grove and lost to the Crimson 4-2 at home Tuesday evening. Maple Grove is 6-2 and Centennial 4-3-1. Brock Carls scored for the Cougars in the first period and Drake Ramirez made it 2-0 just 22 seconds into the second. Jacob Sinclair, Lucas Busch and Finn Brink gave the Crimson a 3-2 lead in the second period and Ty Paterfield nailed the last goal in the third. Cougar goalie Gavin Schahn made 27 saves on 31 shots, and Maple Grove’s Jack Roach 31 saves on 33 shots.
The Centennial gymnasts won their first three dual meets but sustained their
one-to-one coverage, and numerous steals, held the Cougars to their low total of the year and 19 under their average.
first loss on Tuesday evening. Elk River/ Zimmerman had the top two or three in each event and outscored the Cougars 137.40 to 128.25. Kylee Nelson placed third all-around with 33.20, behind two Elks, Sydney Martin and Jaelyn Sorenson. She placed fourth on vault (8.50) and floor (8.625), and fifth on bars and beam. Amelia Gannon tied Nelson for fourth on floor. Jenna Simso was third on beam (8.375) and fifth on vault (8.45). Previously, Centennial defeated Blaine/Andover, Coon Rapids and Champlin Park.
Centennial/Spring Lake Park did not have a game this past week and headed into the holiday break with an 8-2-1 record. They will skate
in the Breck Holiday Tournament Dec. 27-29.
Lauren O’Hara leads the Cougar scoring with 16 goals and seven assists for 23 points, followed by Grace Laager (4-1115), Jaycee Chatleain (3-9-12) and Noelle Hemr (7-4-11).
Roseville fended off Centennial 74-70 in Roseville on Tuesday evening. Nate Hatteberg scored 20 points, Khalid Aabdi 16 and Ataa-Adjetey Mensah 14 for the Raiders (5-1). Aabdi grabbed 11 rebounds. For Centennial (2-3), Luke Gunderson tallied 18 points, Jack D’Agostino 13, Ty Burgoon 13, and Josh Lee 10.
Bruce Strand
Wondering how to get outside and enjoy the outdoors this winter? The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has some great no- and low-cost activities open to everyone.
“We know Minnesotans love being outdoors, and winter offers a whole different way to play outside,” said Ann Pierce, DNR parks and trails director.
The DNR offers several suggestions to make getting outdoors easy, fun and affordable for Minnesotans:
Vehicle permits are required to visit state parks and recreation areas. The cost is $7 per day or $35 for an annual permit. Permits can be purchased at a park office, or visitors can save time by purchasing online before heading to the park. Park permits can be purchased on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/ParkPermit).
The DNR also offers free park permits through its library program. More than 100 libraries across Minnesota offer seven-day permits that people can check out at no cost.
“The library park pass program is a terrific way to access state parks for free,” Pierce said. “It’s one way we’re removing barriers to getting outdoors and enjoying the beauty of Minnesota’s state parks.”
A list of participating libraries is on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/ LibraryPass).
Winter camping is offered at 25 state parks and recreation areas. For visitors looking for a warmer overnight stay, many state parks offer heated camper cabins with electricity and yurts with wood stoves that are open year-round. Camper cabins accommodate up to six people, while yurts hold three to seven people. Pets are not allowed inside camper cabins or yurts.
Find the winter camping guide (mndnr.gov/State_Parks/Winter_Camping) on the DNR website, as well as information on staying in camper cabins (mndnr.gov/CamperCabins) or yurts (mndnr.gov/ Yurts).
Look into family-friendly events Events and programs are scheduled at state parks throughout the winter season, offering a wide range of activities, including escape rooms, interpretive hikes, crafting,
education about park wildlife and more.
“Whether you want to learn, or be physically active, or both, you’re sure to find an event that fits you,” Pierce said. “State parks and trails events are suitable for beginners and all age groups.”
State park events are free, but a vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Find state park events on the DNR events calendar (mndnr. gov/PTCalendar).
Snowshoe rentals are available at 30 state parks and recreation areas, and five state parks offer cross-country ski rentals. Rental prices vary by location, and some state parks offer free rentals.
“Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are great activities to be active while beating cabin fever,” Pierce said. “If you need rental equipment, it’s a good idea to check the website for the park you’re planning to visit or call ahead to get details about the type of rental equipment offered at the park and to check for availability.”
For snowshoe rental information, visit the snowshoeing page of the DNR website (mndnr.gov/ state_parks/snowshoeing) and for cross-country ski rentals, visit the ski pass map on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/Skiing/SkiPass/Map. html).
It’s free to fish in many Minnesota state parks, and some parks have fishing kits for visitors to borrow.
“Ice fishing is a quintessential winter activity in Minnesota,” said Pierce. “If you’re new to ice fishing, don’t worry, we can help. State parks offer events and handson learning programs to teach you how to ice fish.”
Those interested in ice fishing in state parks can read tips, learn about ice safety, find a lake to fish on and more by visiting the state parks ice fishing guide (mndnr.gov/ state_parks/ice_fishing.html). To find parks that have fishing kits available to borrow, see the DNR’s page about borrowing equipment (mndnr.gov/state_parks/loaner. html).
