Public safety director retires
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
The city of Lino Lakes will say goodbye to longtime Public Safety Director John Swenson after almost 15 years.
Swenson, who grew up in St. Paul, has served in law enforcement and public safety for almost four decades.
“I’ve been in public service about 36 years,” Swenson said. “Really, what I felt my core role
was was helping people try to solve problems to make their lives better. That is what has kept me invigorated to keep providing public safety services to the residents here (in Lino Lakes).” Swenson said that his first look into law enforcement was through his friends’ parents in high school. His father also had an interest in the profession.
SEE PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR, PAGE 2
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The city of Lino Lakes continues to discuss the Main Street Corridor Master Plan and the Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) process through community open houses and special joint meetings.
The corridor is located in the northwestern corner of the city and located along one of the primary “gateways” into the city via Main Street. In total, the area encompasses roughly 980 acres.
In August 2024, due to increased interest in the development of the corridor, the City Council placed a oneyear moratorium on development in that area to allow time for a thorough planning process. The goals of the planning process is to guide development of the area for the future, define potential development scenarios and outline development requirements. At a special joint meeting, City Council members, city staff and multiple advisory board and committee members joined Kimley Horn representatives Leila Bunge and Brian Adams to discuss the future of the property and recap what was discussed at an open house held earlier in December for residents and stakeholders. At the open house, over 80 residents attended and provided feedback on what they would like to see in the area. Leaders of the Forest Lake and Centennial School Districts and local agencies, such as the
SEE MAIN STREET CORRIDOR, PAGE 5
Centerville Lions put on annual fishing contest
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
Hundreds of anglers will gather on Centerville Lake and try their luck on the ice during the annual Centerville Lions ice fishing contest Saturday, Feb. 15. This year, the Centerville Lions contest celebrates 40 years.
Lion Katie Hogan has helped plan the event for 15 years. Hogan and her husband, Ron, got involved in helping with the event through a good friend, Lion Lynn Johnson.
“He brought us into it and wanted us to be a part of it,”
Hogan explained. “At the ice fishing contest, you could just see how much fun people had when they were out there, how it brought the community together and we enjoyed that part of it. We thought ‘Gosh, it’s fun to collect all the donations and see everybody come together.’”
In 2022, Hogan helped plan the event with Lion Nancy Johnson, Lynn’s wife. Now Hogan is co-chair of the event and helps plan it with her husband, who is also a Lion and chair of the fishing contest.
Tickets to participate in the
contest will be sold on the lake starting at 9 a.m. The contest will officially begin at 11 a.m. Prizes will be given to participants who catch the first 40 fish.
“The first half an hour, 45 minutes, is crazy because everybody is running,” said Hogan. “The first 40 fish that are caught get a prize and so, they’re (the participants) running up as fast as they can to the ice shack.”
Participants will be able to fish until the final weigh-in takes place at 2 p.m.
SEE FISHING CONTEST, PAGE 6
PHOTOS BY MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Lino Lakes city staff and city officials got together to celebrate former Public Safety Director John Swenson.
Hundreds of anglers, both adults and children, will participate in the 40th Ice Fishing Contest, sponsored by the Centerville Lions Club on Feb. 15.
PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR: Swenson thanks community for their support
“I had some friends who had parents who were in law enforcement,” Swenson said. “My father had a strong interest in law enforcement but wasn’t able to fulfill that dream for himself because he was a Korean War veteran and lost a leg in Korea.”
“It just really piqued my interest,” he added. “The ability to make such a positive impact on people’s lives, it was something I was passionate about from a very early age.”
In 1989, Swenson joined the Minnesota Army National Guard, where he served in the military police. During his time in the Army, he served in multiple locations. He was deployed to Kuwait in 1991 to take part in the Desert Shield/Desert Storm operation.
During that time, he was also attending Inver Hills Community College, where he received his associates
CENTERVILLE TIDBITS
• The City Council has adopted a leadership transition plan to aid in substantial changes to its leadership. (See page 10 for more information.)
• At a previous meeting, council reviewed a proposed project to lower the normal water level of a backyard drainage pond at 6996 Brian Drive. Council was presented with estimated project costs and an assessment scenario. The consensus was to move forward pending a review of permitting requirements and engineering issues. Staff now has determined that no watershed permit would be necessary for the work and that there are no adverse effects on downstream ponds. Staff requested direction to move forward with the procurement of assessment waivers from the affected property owners. If the city can obtain waivers from those proposed for assessments, staff will contract for the work to be approved at an upcoming meeting. Council unanimously directed staff to request waivers of assessment appeal from neighboring properties. If attempts to obtain waivers fail, staff will return to council for direction.
• Though it is difficult to envision flowering trees in winter, city staff is keeping its Fiore Tree project in front of them. At present, there is no contract in place to ensure continuation of the place-making project council approved at its Sept. 11 meeting. Council directed staff to keep going with the project and to return with a proposal. The Fiore Tree is a metal sculpture of a tree with a hanging floral basket that would expend approximately $25,000 of park dedication funds and additional Economic Development Authority (EDA)
degree. A few years later, he received his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Concordia University in St. Paul.
Swenson joined the Minneapolis Police Department in 1993. Then in 2006, he became a captain at the White Bear Lake Police Department. In 2011, Swenson became Lino Lakes’ public safety director.
He said that what he enjoys most about working in public safety is that there is something new every day and working with the staff at Lino Lakes has been enjoyable.
“The staff here in Lino Lakes is second to none,” Swenson explained. “I thoroughly have enjoyed working with the staff and continuing to grow the organization to perform at such a high level of service delivery.”
He said that there have been challenges, as there is with any city, but is proud of how the city and public
funds, if necessary. The placemaking effort is one of council's strategic plan goals.
• Following one of President Donald Trump's early executive orders, city staff realized that an infrastructure financing piece in President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act may no longer be available to the city to help finance the installation of solar panels on City Hall and the Fire Station. That could mean that the city might not receive the infrastructure tax credit of $35,250 and might have to pay that money or delay the project. The total funding needed to install the solar panels is $117,500: $70,500 was to come from the solar on public buildings grant, $35,250 from the tax credit and $11,750 from city operating funds. Mouli Vaidyanathan of SolarPod urged the city not to pause the project. Council voted 4-1 (Council Member David Kubat opposed) to let staff work out a deal with SolarPod that would establish a pause that could reasonably be accommodated and not risk more than $35,000. Alternatively, the city would just move forward with the project.
• The Minnesota Cities Stormwater Coalition (MCSC), of which Centerville is a member, works with regulators to ensure they understand the implication of proposed stormwater rules on cities. The MCSC also lobbies on behalf of cities with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and other regulatory agencies. With its presence in St. Paul, MCSC has been able to help the MPCA develop rules over the past two decades. Renewal dues are being increased by 5%, or $40. Now, annual dues are $770 and would expend stormwater utility funds.
Council unanimously approved membership renewal in the MCSC.
• Centerville is also a member of Metro Cities, an offshoot of the League of Minnesota Cities that focuses on legislative policy. The organization works with legislators to ensure they understand the implication of proposed legislation on cities. Testimony in St. Paul affected changes to the initial draft of a bill that secured more than $170,000 in funding for the cities who use joint power agreements for their police and fire departments. Council also renewed the city's membership in Metro Cities; its annual membership is $1,878. General fund monies will cover the membership dues.
• Council approved two licenses pertaining to massage services in the city. Connor James Salon received its massage establishment renewal after license applicant Christina Luger completed all the necessary applications, paid associated fees and passed a background check by CLPD. The salon’s massage therapist, Jodi Cruz, also received her license renewal.
• An opening on the Planning and Zoning Commission has been filled. Council appointed Jim Carciofini to the commission. Commission members interviewed Carciofini at their Jan. 7 meeting, and council appointed him at their Jan. 8 meeting. However, his application was not included in the Jan. 8 meeting packet, so it was included in the Jan. 22 packet for review and official appointment. Carciofini has lived in Centerville for 26 years.
Loretta Harding
safety department have worked through them.
“I’m proud of how we’ve come through those with implementation of fire services within the public safety department, integration of technology in our building on the police side and video in the squad cars and bodyworn cameras,” Swenson said, “all of those things have led to tremendous efficiencies and safety for our staff.”
Swenson thanked the community, and the Lino Lakes area, for its incredible support of the Lino Lakes Public Safety organization.
“It is through that support that we’ve been able to achieve the great things that our organization has. So, thank you to them,” he concluded.
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
CHURCH BRIEF
Decorate Valentine’s Day treats at St. Joseph of the Lake
St. Joseph of the Lakes is inviting middle and high school student to help decorate Valentine’s Day treats and decorations for residents at Stepping Stones Emergency House from 6:30-7:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at St. Joe’s Great Hall. Participants will decorate cookies, make cards and themed decorations for residents. To sign up, go to https://tinyurl.com/2udh6sst . If you have questions, contact Sarah Ray at SarahR@ SaintJosephsParish.org. St. Joseph of the Lake is located at 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes.
COUNTY BRIEF
Anoka County Parks adds new program
Anoka County Parks will add a new program this month for residents to participate in. The new adaptive ski program is designed for individuals of all abilities to enjoy ski trails in Bunker Hills Regional Park with the help of specialized equipment and trained instructors. The first session will take place from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15. A second session will be from 1-3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. Registration is required and can be done so at https:// tinyurl.com/5pbmh6cn. Bunker Hills Regional Park is located at 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW, Andover.
WEEKLY WAG
Oso is a beautiful, sweet, gentle German shepherd/husky mix. He is about 2 1/2 years old and weighs 60 pounds. Oso loves spending time with his people, especially outside. He would do great joining a forever family that is active in outdoor activities. But when he is not playing outside, snuggling up and napping on the couch suits him just fine.
Oso arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter. He can be a bit shy and timid when he first meets new people, but warms up once he feels comfortable. He is also social with other dogs and enjoys playing. Oso is house-trained and knows some of his basic commands, but he would do well in a formal training program. He is still working on kennel training but enjoys being with his people much more than being in his kennel. Oso would love to find a forever family that will be patient and understanding while he gains his confidence. If you are interested in learning more about Oso or adopting him, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: URBAN FOXES & COYOTES
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Free naturalist-led program for those 50+. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment provided.
Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
BUSINESS BRIEFS
ONGOING EVENTS
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.”
Contact: (651) 783-0055
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Feb. 6; 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
'MISERY'
When: Jan 24-Feb. 9
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake
Details: Live performance based on the thriller by Stephen King. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
CURRENT EVENTS
ROYAL BALL
When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7
Where: The Rookery Activity Center, 7690 Village Dr., Lino Lakes
Details: Activities will include crafts, refreshments and dancing. Attendees can dress in their favorite princess/ prince costume or outfit. Registration required. Contact: 651-982-2468
FRIDAY KARAOKE AND DJ WITH REINA STARR
When: 7-11:55 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: Participate in karaoke and enjoy music played by DJ Reina Starr Contact: linolakeslegion.com or 651-7830055
AUTHOR VISIT
When: Noon-2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8
Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake
Details: Book signing with Minnesota's first female lieutenant governor, Marlene Johnson, author of “Rise to the Challenge.” Contact: 651-426-0918
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING SERIES
When: 10 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
they leave behind. Registration required.
Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
WINTER FARMERS MARKET
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8
Where: Normandy Park Education Center, 2482 County Road F E., White Bear Lake
Details: 20+ farmers and vendors sharing locally-grown food and crafted items and gifts. Most booths inside; firepit and hot cider outdoors. Contact: forksinthedirt.com/winterfarmers-market
WOMEN’S SNOWSHOEING
When: 3-5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Suitable for seasoned snowshoes or beginners. Get outside, stay active and enjoy nature. Registration required. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
ON THE ROAD TO SAFER SENIORS DRIVING
When: 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 10
Where: White Bear Lake Police Dept., 4701 Hwy 61 (3rd Street entrance)
Details: Class led by Joanie Somes of the MN Emergency Nurses Association addresses awareness, information and resources to increase safety for older drivers. CONTRIBUTED
Surfside Seaplane Base under new ownership
Surfside Seaplane Base, located in Lino Lakes, is now under new ownership. Surfside, established in 1946, is one of the oldest and largest seaplane facilities in the United States. The Minnesota Seaplane Pilots Association started at Surfside, and the airport has hosted the annual MSPA Pig Roast Picnic for over 40 years.
The base is now under the ownership of Bob Timm and Dan Kedrowski. Surfside Seaplane Base is located at 6980 Lake Drive.
Having a community event in the future? Contact us today to submit your event to What’s
Call 651-407-1200 or email calendar@presspubs.com
The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.
Details: Uncover the journey of an animal by the track, trails and signs
CONTRIBUTED
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
Galentine’s Day at Humble Roots
Humble Roots Boutique, in Centerville, will host a Galentine’s Day event from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. There will be drinks, snacks, shopping and professional styling. JBloom by Permalinx will also be there creating permanent jewelry and will have a charm bar for customized bracelets and necklaces.
Humble Roots Boutique is located at 7095 Centerville Road. For more information, go to https://humbleroots.boutique/.
Bob Timm and Dan Kedrowski purchased Surfside Seaplane Base from previous owner Bruce Hanson.
MNA award banquet
APublisher’s View
nnually, newspapers across the state submit their best work to be judged by the Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA). It’s pretty amazing to see how our neighboring states will jump in and judge our newspapers. I’m delighted to report that Press Publications took home several awards at this years MNA conference, including first place for general excellence, third place for website and third place for special section, third place for social issues. I get a little nervous each year when we’re submitting our entries, because as a newspaper with circulation over 7,000 we are in the more challenging categories and competing against the large organizations throughout the state. I’m proud of our staff and their commitment to serving the community and the wonderful work that organizations around our city and townships are doing. Congratulations to our news staff including Eric, Paul, Shannon, Madeline and Amy and our production team who come together every day to produce your newspaper each week. It was refreshing to see nearly 400 in attendance for training at this year’s conference. Minnesota is made up of 87 counties and nearly 250 newspapers are registered with the MNA.
Often I hear, “It’ has to be challenging operating a newspaper these days,” and it is. Press Publications’ newspapers utilized a somewhat unique hybrid delivery model, in that we deliver the paper for free to anyone in our area who wants it, and twice a year we ask our readers to pay for a subscription. Many of you see the value of your newspaper and voluntarily pay for a subscription to help us be sustainable as a publishing company. While the majority of our support comes from businesses who promote their products and services to the community through advertising and marketing in the local paper, in this current economy we need to continue to increase our number of paid subscriptions. If you currently subscribe or are considering it, please know how much we appreciate your support.
Tik Tok
A couple of weeks ago Tik Tok users experienced a short blackout as a ban was being considered. I wonder how many kids looked up and around and found something more productive to do rather than gaze at their phone during those few hours? I struggle with this kind of ban from a First Amendment/free speech perspective, but I also believe we may never fully understand the damage that has been caused by this and other social media platforms that have few or no rules. Our 20-yearold daughter who is in Europe studying abroad recently told her mom that she would probably talk to her more often once Tik Tok is banned. She was probably kidding, but don’t all parents want to hear that? To think it took years to ban Red Dye 3 from our food even though it was known to cause cancer in many reports. How long will it take to crack down on companies who cause harm, violate copyright and reward those who promote ethical and healthy business practices?
Slang updates
Recently I was on a phone call with a car dealer to see if they wanted to sponsor one of our events. The woman I was talking to had forgotten something and mumbled “I’m dead.” I began to laugh because thankfully I had heard this term used before by my kids to describe a situation where something wasn’t going right. There are a few other slang terms I’ve learned:
Rizz: A person having charm or charisma, especially in a romantic setting.
Goated: Something considered to be the greatest of all time (GOAT)
Lit: something that is excellent or exciting
Salty: being angry or bitter.
Slay: something or someone who is exceptionally impressive.
Tea: gossip
Bot: a person who acts more mechanical than human, like a robot.
Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
Legislative breakfast: A recap of discussion
BMovers & Shakers
Jeff Holmberg
efore the legislative session begins, the Centennial School Board hosts a breakfast with our legislators. Senators Heather Gustafson and Michael Kreun and Representatives Elliott Engen and Matt Norris attended the event as well as mayors, city administrators, county commissioners, student representatives and staff. We are grateful for the partnership we have with our legislators and appreciate working together to help ensure student success. Throughout the legislative session, school board members, staff, and I meet with senators and representatives at the Capitol. In the past, staff and I have been called to testify and lay out our concerns as bills are drafted.
Discussion during the breakfast meeting focused on the request for additional state aid to support long-term facility maintenance to help protect your investments as taxpayers, refining the compensatory revenue funding formula to better reflect resources to support students, and the continuing work to decrease the overall tax burden, making school levies, operating referendum, local optional revenue and debt services more affordable for you as taxpayers.
School districts with a larger property tax base, usually including significant commercial and industrial property (high-level property wealth), lowers the tax burden for the local taxpayer. We have had conversations with legislators over the years, trying to move the dial on equalization to reduce taxpayer and education funding disparities. We want our students to have similar learning opportunities as those in high-level property wealth areas while making it affordable for you as taxpayers.
Based on cost per $300,000 property value, Centennial's operating level and local optional revenue is $1,676 per pupil and the cost to you as a local taxpayer is $713. Examples of school levies include Minneapolis, where their operating levy is $3,024 per pupil and the cost to the local taxpayer is $431; Hopkins where their operating levy is $2,947 per pupil and the cost to the local taxpayer is $444; St. Louis Park where their operating levy is $2,944 per pupil and the cost to the local taxpayer is $481; and Bloomington where their operating levy is $2,878 per pupil and the cost to the local taxpayer is $563.
This hardly seems fair to you or our students. We will continue the push for equalization at the Capitol to provide equal learning opportunities for students, and for you as taxpayers, make levies more affordable. We appreciate your support of the Centennial School District!
Jeff Holmberg is the Centennial Superintendent of Schools.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
• Limited to 350 words.
• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
Carter Johnson
MAIN STREET CORRIDOR: Updates show possibilities for land use
Anoka County Highway Department and Rice Creek Watershed District, were also in attendance.
The first scenario presented by Adams showed a full build-out and would follow the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan. A full build-out would include low-, medium- and high-density housing. The plan also showed planned residential and commercial land use.
“We looked at the comp plan on where all the trails, wildlife corridors and parks went and how the ditches worked along the site,” Adams explained. “We overlaid the comp plan and modified it to make it work with the existing plan to see what all those systems would look like.”
Scenario 2 featured what is being called “Gateway Village.” The scenario featured what Adams called a “bubble” layout. This means that the high-density zone would be the focal point of the “bubble” with mediumand low-density zones surrounding around it.
“We started putting the (commercial) density in the corner and wrapped it with the medium-density zones and then the low-
density,” said Adams. “We have a gateway of this retail, commercial zone and as you move through it gets lower and lower density as you move to the east.”
Adams explained that Scenario 3 would focus on preserving open space. He said that the gateway into Lino Lakes would be mainly green space. The residential and commercial spaces would be more in the center of the property. Under this scenario, residents would expect to see more multifamily homes and possibly a day care or restaurant. According to Bunge, this scenario was the least favored among residents and stakeholders at the first open house.
Board and committee members weighed in on the different scenarios proposed by Adams.
“One concern that pops into mind is the sight line,” said Elizabeth Larkin from the environmental board regarding Scenario 2.
“Thinking about the mediumto high-density (development) when you’re driving down Main Street from either direction, is your sight line going to be obstructed, and not be able to see the green space because of the tall buildings?”
• The city of Lino Lakes will support efforts by the Minnesota Association of Community Telecommunications Administrators (MACTA) to modernize public education and government programming/public (PEG) access funding following council approval. Funding was requested from North Metro TV, which broadcasts City Council meetings and other citylevel programming.
• Oertel Architects will design the new Public Works facility after council accepted its proposal and estimate of $677,506 for the design work. The proposed project includes construction of a public works facility on approximately 10 acres owned by the city at 1189 Main Street. The site also includes an adjacent 14 acres that includes park improvements and a materials yard. The project will include a public work facility with vehicle storage, vehicle maintenance and office space, parking lots, commodity bins, access roads, community meeting space and more. The expected budget for this project is approximately $16.4 million. It will be funded through the building and facilities fund. The new facility
CENTENNIAL
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 12
AD FOR BIDS
Independent School District #12, Centennial Public Schools
will receive sealed bids in duplicate for:
Centennial High School Stadium Site Work Improvements until 11:00 am on Thursday, February 20, 2025.
Sealed bids will be received by the Executive Director of Business Services
Centennial School District 12 – Patrick Chaffey :4707 North Road Circle Pines MN 55014 then publicly opened and read aloud. There is no agent for the receipt of bids other than the Executive Director of Business Services Centennial School District 12 – Patrick Chaffey. Bids shall be submitted on bid form provided by the Bid Documents. The completed bid form shall be submitted without alterations, additions, or erasures. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed marked separately “Centennial High School Stadium Site Work Improvements” with the name and address of the bidder, Work Scope Number and Title, and the date and hour of the opening. Bids shall be delivered to:
Mr. Patrick Chaffey
Director of Business Services
Independent School District #12
District Office 4707 North Road Circle Pines, MN 55014
Planning and Zoning Board
Member Suzy Guthmueller expressed her concerns regarding the development scenarios and who they were being directed toward.
“I’m confused as to how we’re going about this,” she said. “Are we planning it for someone’s (a developer’s) plan or are we planning it for the city?”
Shawn Holmes from the environmental board also
is scheduled to be completed in 2027. See the full story in this week’s edition of the Quad Community Press.
shared her thoughts.
“It’s frustrating to feel like we don’t have a lot of control on this,” she said.
“Robinson (Sod Farm) can sell to whomever. This is an opportunity for us to be a part of that, and to help navigate so that it’s going to meet the needs of as many of us as possible.”
A second open house will take place from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at The
• Deputy Director Dan L’Allier will serve as interim fire chief following council approval. L’Allier has 42 years of experience in fire, EMS and emergency management. He has worked for the city since 2014. The city does not have a compensation structure or job grade for the position of fire chief. To ensure a competitive and equitable wage, the city conducted a market analysis. The analysis included data from the League of Minnesota Cities and a review of comparable compensation in similar-sized municipalities with comparable fire service models. Based on these findings, L’Allier will receive an hourly wage of $74.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, at City Hall, followed by a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Madeline Dolby
Lump sum bids for the defined work scope are solicited from responsible contractors specializing in, or highly experienced in this work.
WORKSCOPE #01: EARTHWORK / UTILITIES / CONCRETE / FENCING
WORKSCOPE #02: ATHLETIC TURF
WORKSCOPE #03: ELECTRICAL
Procurement of documents will be sent via Procore for access contact: Brenda Schultz, Nexus Solutions bschultz@nexussolutions.com (763) 370-6029
Bidding documents will be available on or about January 28, 2025. Each bid of $10,000 or greater shall be accompanied by a certified or cashier’s check, or a bid bond in the amount of at least five (5%) percent of the amount of the bid made payable to Centennial Public Schools as bid security that, if the bid is accepted, the contractor will execute the contract and file the required performance and payment bonds within the allotted time period after notice of award of contract.
The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or parts of bids and waive any formalities or irregularities in the bidding. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of forty-five (45) days after bid opening without consent of the Board of Education.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT #12
CENTENNIAL PUBLIC SCHOOLS, CIRCLE PINES, MN
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on January 28 and February 4, 2025.
Rookery. More information on the Main Street Corridor can be found at https:// mappingnwmain.com/. No formal action was taken at the meeting by any entities present. It was discussion only.
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• The Fire Steering Committee was $50,000 under budget last year, according to Council Member Steve McChesney. The excess funds will go into the capital equipment fund. He also announced that there are currently 15 firefighters on staff at Station No. 1; one is going into training.
• City Administrator Patrick Antonen said residents can expect to see a slight increase in sewer and stormwater sewer utility rates. On average, Antonen said residents should see about a total increase of about $4. The increase is due to the work that has
been done rebuilding city infrastructure such as water, sewer and stormwater lines as well as road work.
• Anoka County is looking to move its fire academy back “in house,” according to Council Member Matt Percy. Previously, the county utilized Century College to help with the academy. The county is planning on accomplishing this transition within the next 12 months.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11.
Madeline Dolby
CITY OF LINO LAKES
BOARD OF APPEAL AND EQUALIZATION PUBLIC NOTICE
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING ASSESSMENT AND CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY
This may affect your 2026 property tax payments.
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeal and Equalization for the City of Lino Lakes shall meet on May 5, 2025, 5:30 P.M. at Lino Lakes City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether taxable property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor, and to determine whether corrections need to be made.
If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessor’s office to discuss your concerns. If you are still not satisfied with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and equalization. The board shall review the valuation, classification, or both if necessary, and shall correct it as needed. Generally, an appearance before your local board of appeal and equalization is required by law before an appeal can be taken to the county board of appeal and equalization.
Given under my hand this 28th day of January, 2025.
Roberta Colotti, CMC, Clerk of City of Lino Lakes Published two times in the Quad Community Press on February 4, 2025 and April 15, 2025.
This graph shows the different density types within the city of Lino Lakes.
LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
FISHING CONTEST: Celebrates 40 years
“Everybody is super excited to be there,” she said. “It’s a lot of fun.”
Usually, volunteers will drill more than 1,000 holes around Centerville Lake where participants can set up.
Volunteers get a hole to fish at for free for their help.
“People hear that it’s something that is fun, and everybody is super friendly.
I think that’s the biggest part of it,” Hogan said when asked why she believes the contest is so popular.
There will be a cash raffle, door prizes and goody bags for kids who attend. Booya, chili, hot dogs and more will be available for purchase, too. Portable ice houses, personal coolers, and glass containers are not allowed on the lake.
“It’s a privilege,” Hogan said about what it means for the Lions to host the fishing contest for 40 years. “It’s an honor to be able to do it. If it wasn’t for this (the contest), we wouldn’t be able to give and serve in our community the way that we do.”
She added that with the money made from the fishing contest the Lions are able to purchase books for the elementary school, help families in need and more. Typically, she said that the Lions raise anywhere between $10,000 to $15,000.
For more information about the fishing contest, visit the Centerville Lions Facebook page.
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press. She can be reached at 651-4311226 or quadnews@presspubs.com
1-2. Students from Centennial High School were inducted into the National Honor Society at the end of January. —Paula Dittrich, contributed. 3-4. Lino Lakes Ambassadors Tabitha Johnson and Emily Black spend the day at Winterfest at the Wargo Nature Center. —Contributed. 5. The Centerville Elementary Kids Club got together and made tie blankets to donate to the Centennial Lakes Police Department. Officers will distribute the blankets to those in need while police are out on patrol. — Contributed
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• Officers received a phone call Jan. 23 regarding fraud in the 200 block of Little John Drive in Circle Pines.
• Officers received a phone call of a fraud report Jan. 24 in the 88000 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington.
• Officers were dispatched on a report of suspicious activity Jan. 24 in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington.
• Officers responded to an alarm going off at a business located in the 9100 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington Jan. 26. No issues were found.
• Officers received a delayed report of theft Jan. 27 that had occurred in the 9000 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• An officer responded to a report of a deer struck by a vehicle Jan. 21 near the intersection of Birch Street and Deerwood Lane.
• An officer received a theft report Jan. 21 at a construction site located near the intersection of Ash Street and Otter Lake Road. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer and the Lino Lakes Fire Department responded to a possible gas leak Jan. 21 in the 300 block of Pine Street. The fire department did not detect a gas leak.
• Officers responded to a personal
injury crash Jan. 22 involving one vehicle near the intersection of Sunset Avenue and Apollo Drive. The occupant of the vehicle was treated by paramedics and the vehicle was towed.
• A community service officer was dispatched to an animal bite incident that occurred Jan. 22 in the 1100 block of Main Street. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded to a vandalism call Jan. 22 regarding a vehicle that drove through a resident’s yard in the 0 block of Ash Street. The officer attempted to obtain video footage of the incident but was unsuccessful.
• Officers responded to a civil dispute Jan. 22 in the 6600 block of 20th Avenue involving a dog. The dog was returned to the owner and parties involved were advised to contact court administration.
• An officer received a report Jan. 23 regarding concerns of a possible assault that occurred in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The officer investigated and determined no crime had been committed.
• While on patrol Jan. 25, an officer stopped a vehicle after observing multiple violations in the 6000 block of Centerville Road. The officer investigated and later completed a form to have the Minnesota Department of Vehicle Services evaluate the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle.
• Officers responded to a welfare check of a male Jan. 25 in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road. Upon investigation, it was determined
the male did not need assistance. He was arrested on an unrelated warrant.
• An officer took a report of a vehicle theft Jan. 25 that occurred in the 8000 block of Lake Drive. The officer determined it was a false report and the investigation is ongoing.
• Officers responded to a report of a violent threat against a business in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road Jan. 25. Upon arrival, the officers determined there was no active threat. The incident is under investigation.
• An officer responded to an animal complaint Jan. 26 in the 6400 block of Ojibway Path. The incident was documented.
• An officer was dispatched to a
report of a found animal Jan. 27 in the 6400 block of Ware Road. The animal was brought to an animal hospital to be reunited with its owners.
• A community service officer was dispatched to a traffic complaint Jan. 27 near the intersection of Tart Lake Road and Stella Lane. The incident was documented and extra patrol was requested.
• Officers responded to a report of suspicious activity Jan. 27 in the 7700 block of Carole Drive. The area was checked but nothing suspicious was found.
CLASSIFIEDS
We are looking for a new team member to join our sales team!
Press Publications is looking for a positive energy sales representative that can be creative and help our community business grow through our print and digital products. If you are looking to be a part of something big in the community call or email: marketing@presspubs.com 651-407-1213
White Bear
Sailing School Hiring a Director
The White Bear Sailing School is in a moment of big growth and is looking for someone to step in and keep the momentum going.
The Director is responsible for managing all aspects of the school’s marketing, summer programs, high school programs, and waterfront. The director works with the instructor staff and the board of directors to develop curriculum, manage resources, and grow the program. The program includes high school sailing, youth and adult learn to sail summer classes, and opti/laser/420 summer race teams.
This is a full time position over the fall, spring, and summer. It could be part time or full time over the winter. They report directly to the board of directors. We are looking for someone with a background or interest in education and nonprofit management. Sailing experience not required. The White Bear Sailing School is a non profit organization in White Bear Lake MN that offers sailing classes to youth and adults. We also run competitive race teams for local high schools.
Email Toby Sullivan at sailwbss@gmail.com
Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm 651-407-1250 | classified@presspubs.com
Hallmark
Free
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Lino Lakes man involved in crash
Around 6 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, a 25-yearold Lino Lakes resident received injuries that were not life-threatening after being involved in a car accident on I-35W. The resident’s Jeep Grand Cherokee collided head-on with a Chevy Malibu that was reportedly driving south into northbound traffic.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Aman Mukhart Mohamed, 21, the driver of the Chevy Malibu, was headed south in the left lane of northbound traffic before colliding head-on with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Mohamed died from his injuries.
The Minnesota State Patrol incident report indicates that alcohol was involved. An investigation is underway.
Large brush fire in Lino Lakes
Fire crews responded to northbound I-35E north of the Main Street exit at approximately 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2 for a large brush fire burning in a ditch just off the interstate.
Traffic was heavily backed up in the northbound lanes of I-35E north during the incident.
Firefighters arrived on scene and had most of the flames extinguished by around 8:25 p.m.
ALPINE SKI
• Results last week
This Week In SPORTS | Scoreboard
Cougar girls 1st, boys 4th, in final NWSC
meet
Record
Cougar girls finished 1st of 11 teams in conference, boys finished 4th of 12 teams
• Coming up
Tuesday: Section meet at Giants Ridge
BASKETBALL, BOYS
• Results last week
Anoka 75, Cougars 65
Cougars 64, Armstrong 62
Cougars 57, Duluth East 50
Record
10-9 overall, 4-7 conference
Coming up
Wednesday: Totino-Grace, 7 p.m.
BASKETBALL, GIRLS
• Results last week
Anoka 53, Cougars 49
Armstrong 55, Cougars 51
• Record 11-8 overall, 8-4 conference
• Coming up
Wednesday: at Totino-Grace, 7 p.m.
DANCE TEAM
• Coming up
Saturday: section meet at Bloomington
Kennedy
GYMNASTICS
• Results last week
Cougars 128.1, Park Center 115.775
Scored 129.425 in loss to Rogers Record
3-5 overall, 3-5 conference
• Coming up Thursday: at Maple Grove, 6 p.m.
HOCKEY, BOYS
• Results last week
Maple Grove 3, Cougars 1 Cougars 3, Armstrong 2
Record
6-14 overall, 3-9 conference
• Coming up
Tuesday: White Bear Lake, 7 p.m.
Thursday: Spring Lake Park/Coon Rapids, 7 p.m.
Saturday: at Blaine, 2 p.m.
HOCKEY, GIRLS
(Centennial/Spring Lake Park)
• Results last week
Cougars 6, Blaine 1 Cougars 12, White Bear Lake 3
OBITUARY
Keith Paul Perlich
• Record 22-2 overall, 12-0 conference
• Coming up
Tuesday: at Woodbury, 7 p.m.
SWIMMING
Results last week
Cougars 102, Park 73 Record
5-0 overall, 5-0 conference
• Coming up
Thursday: at Elk River, 6 p.m., conference championship
WRESTLING
• Results last week
Cougars 49, Irondale 19
Cougars 60, Roseville Area 8
Cougars 36, Forest Lake 31
Stillwater 54, Cougars 12
Cougars 70, Orono 6
Cougars 54, Rogers 18
• Record
21-6 overall, 10-1 conference
Coming up
Thursday: at Mounds View, 7 p.m.
Friday-Saturday: girls section at Redwood Valley
Friday: at Coon Rapids, 7 p.m.
CITY BRIEFS
Centerville approves leadership transition plan
With the imminent departure of City Administrator Mark Statz, the turnover on the City Council and the recent retirement of Public Works Department Director Paul Palzer, the city is undergoing substantial leadership changes.
To keep the city running efficiently, city staff drew up a plan to complete the city's business until a new city administrator is on board. The plan outlines issues such as salaries, duties and upcoming meetings. The City Council unanimously (4-1; Council Member Russ Koski was absent) approved the leadership transition plan update with a change to try to hold fewer committee meetings as needed and as feasible.
Meanwhile, council interviewed three executive search firms at the work session held prior to the regular meeting. The city can expect to pay anywhere from $6,500 to $25,000, depending on the services and firm selected. Funds will be appropriated from the general fund. Council tabled this action until the next work session to receive more reference materials.
85, passed away at his home in Circle Pines, Minnesota on January 9, 2025. He was born Keith Paul Rustad on January 30, 1939, to Ethel Arnzen. As a young boy, he was adopted by Floyd and Anne (Wozniak) Perlich, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was a 1957 graduate of Vocational High School in Minneapolis. He proudly served his country in the US Navy. After returning home from service he married Betty Goodlund, and they had two sons. They divorced, and he later married Ruth (Dusek) Dunbar of Circle Pines, where they continued to make their home.
With the sense of urgency in selecting a search firm and selecting a new city administrator, the council has added a work session that will take place at 5 p.m. Feb. 12. The additional meeting will also allow Statz to take part while he is still a member of staff.
Centerville seeking to fill several positions
The city of Centerville and the Centennial Fire District (CFD) are searching for individuals to fill several open positions.
A rink attendant is wanted to open and close the warming house, maintain a clean warming house and restrooms, and shovel snow from walkways and rinks. The evening and weekend position pays $16.30/hour.
The city is also accepting applications for a full-time public works technician to work Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with on-call availability Monday through Sunday and occasional overtime. For duties and an application packet, visit the city's website at www.centervillemn.com for more information.
The CFD is also hiring. Anyone
Keith was an electrician by trade and a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, (IBEW). In 2001, without any political experience, he threw his hat into the ring to run for mayor of Circle Pines. His wife told him, “You better be careful, you just might win.” He served two terms, 2002-2005, and was instrumental in acquiring land and a new building for the Centennial Lakes Police Department. Missing Keith on earth is his wife Ruth of 32 years; son, John Perlich, Bemidji, Minnesota; one step-son, two step-daughters, two grand-daughters, two stepgrandsons, four step-granddaughters, and four stepgreat-grandchildren, with one more on the way. Also three half-sisters, one brother and two sisters-in-law. Greeting Keith in Heaven are his mother, his adoptive parents, and son James Perlich.
Celebration of Life 10:00 am Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 9185 Lexington Ave. N., Circle Pines. Visitation at the church from 9:0010:00 am Thursday, May 15. Interment immediately following at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.
interested in becoming a CFD firefighter/EMT may visit the CFD webpage at www.centennialfire.org for more information.
Council OKs new 4-way stop
The location of the two stop signs at the intersection of 73rd Street and Brian Drive in Centerville have resulted in several close calls in vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-pedestrian conflicts.
The north-south street was not controlled, but the east-west street was controlled with stop signs. The city engineer, public works department and Centennial Lakes Police Department recommended adding stop signs to the north-south legs of the intersection. The council unanimously approved the new four-way stop.
Centerville orders feasibility report for 2025 overlays
For the past several years, the city of Centerville has performed thin bituminous overlays in lieu of seal coating as a part of its pavement management program. A project planned for 2025 is proposed to include
parts of LaMotte Drive, Heritage Street, Center Oaks 1st Addition, Brian Drive, Peltier Circle, Old Mill Road and Shad Avenue.
The estimated cost is $700,000; the street capital fund is the funding source. There will also be assessments to adjacent properties as a portion of the costs, so two public hearings will be required.
The council unanimously adopted a resolution ordering a feasibility report for the 2025 thin overlay project. Bidding on the proposed project is expected this spring; paving is expected in the fall. The council also voted unanimously to award the engineering work for the 2025 thin overlay project to Stantec in the amount of $28,100. Stantec will prepare the feasibility report and take care of project design and bidding, with the option of also providing construction services for an additional $18,000. The costs will be paid through the street capital fund. City staff will later determine whether the construction services can be provided in-house, which would save a substantial amount of money.
Loretta Harding
CONTRIBUTED
A grass fire breaks out on the side of I-35E just north of the Main Street exit in Lino Lakes Feb. 2.
SPORTS
Cougar Alpine girls grab conference title
The Centennial/Spring Lake Park (CLSP) girls Alpine team wrapped up the Northwest Suburban Conference championship on Thursday while the Cougar boys finished fourth among 12 teams. At Trollhaugen in Dresser, WI, the CSLP girls placed first of 11 teams for the fourth time in five conference meets and by a large margin, sealing the
SPORTS BRIEFS
program’s first conference title. Hailey Peterson finished second overall. The boys team placed fourth, led by Caleb Nelson in fifth place.
The top three girls teams in the overall standing were CSLP, Blaine and Northwest Alpine. The top four boys teams were Northwest Alpine, Blaine, Chisago Lakes and CSLP.
Six Cougar girls and two
Cougar girl skaters
finish conference 12-0
Centennial/Spring Lake Park girls hockey finished conference play undefeated with a 6-1 win at Blaine on Tuesday evening. The Cougars were 12-0 in the Northwest Suburban Conference.
The Cougars, 22-2 overall, beat White Bear Lake 12-3 on Thursday at home and will close the regular season at Woodbury on Tuesday.
The Section 5AA tournament starts on Saturday.
Against Blaine (14-92), Cougar goals were
delivered by Ayla Specht and Teagan Kulenkamp in the first period, Josie Kelzenberg in the second, and Lillian Renslow (two) and Mia Sutch in the third. Kaia Wieland stopped 11 of 12 shots. Netting three goals each against White Bear Lake (6-16) were Annabelle Buccicone and Grace Laager. Sutch had two goals, and Sam Kelzenberg, Ella Perrault, Kulenkamp, and Alexis Larsen one each.
Bruce Strand
boys made all-conference by placing in the top 23 among 140 skiers. The all-conference girls and their season placement were Hailey Peterson (third), Gwen Halverson (sixth), Sofia Anderson 22nd and Ella Nelson 23rd. The boys were Caleb Nelson sixth and Devon Cunningham 23rd.
Bruce Strand
BOYS HOCKEY
Centennial got two special-teams goals and edged Armstrong/Cooper (A/C) 3-2 on Saturday at home. The Cougars (6-13) lost to Maple Grove 3-1 on Thursday. Against A/C (7-13), the Cougars took a 2-1 lead in the second period on goals by Caleb Krinkle and Kaden Morstad (short-handed). Johnson broke a 2-2 tie, scoring on a power play at 9:38 of the third period. Johnson assisted on the first goal, and Cooper Hehir and Gavin Cunning assisted on the last two. Easton Cody made 24 saves. The Cougars got 34 saves from Cody at Maple Grove and were tied 1-1 until the Crimson scored twice in the last three minutes. Cooper Daikawa scored for the Cougars.
BOYS BASKETBALL
Kellen Binder sank the gamewinning free shots, Tristan Hanson led with 20 points and Jackson
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Hockey February 4, 2025
and 16 assists for 40 points for the Cougars (22-2). She had 17 goals and 10 assists in eighth grade. Sutch is also the goalie on the soccer team and had a strong 0.792 save percentage this fall.
Driessen scored his 1,000th point as Centennial edged Armstrong 64-62 on Thursday evening. The Cougars (10-9) lost to Anoka 75-65 on Tuesday and won at Duluth East 57-50 on Saturday. Binder’s two free shots came with less than a second left against Armstrong (3-15). Driessen, senior guard, had 14 points. Against Anoka (15-4), Driessen scored 26 points and Marshawn Carlvin and Hanson 11 each. Against Duluth East (5-12), Driessen sank 24 points and Hanson 15.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Centennial lost to first-place Anoka 5349 on Tuesday evening, then lost to 13thplace Armstrong 55-51 on Thursday, in Northwest Suburban Conference games. The Cougars are 11-8 overall and 8-4 in conference. Sydney Schmitz had 15 points and Autumn McCall 14 for the Cougars. Armstrong’s upset of the Cougars was led by Anna Smelser with 21 points. McCall had 15 and Schmitz 14.
Driessen
Jack Driessen, Centennial senior guard, scored his 1,000th career point during a 64-62 win at Robbinsdale Armstrong on Thursday evening. He had 14 points in that game after scoring 26 on Tuesday in a loss to Anoka. Driessen, the school’s career leader in three-point baskets, is averaging 24.6 points
SWIMMING
Centennial remain undefeated (5-0) in dual meets with a 102-73 win over Park on Thursday evening. Cougar event winners were Benno Schuhbauer (butterfly, 57.89), Joseph Murray (100 free, 53.85), Caleb Cregan (500 free, 5:43.92), Blake Thorson (diving, 197.5), and Isaac Nguyen (breaststroke 1:19.69). The Cougars won all three relays with Grant Page, Nguyen, Schuhbauer, and Brendan Chretien in the medley; Page, Christine, Sawyer Celotta and Schuhbauer in the 200 free; and Schuhbauer, Celotta, Page and Nguyen in the 400 free. Next Thursday, the Cougars will face Elk River in a meet for the conference title.
Bruce Strand
reaches 1,000 points
this year. He averaged 15.2 points as a junior and 10.5 points as a sophomore.
Bruce Strand
Mia Sutch, a varsity standout as a freshman, is the thirdleading scorer on the Centennial/Spring Lake Park hockey team. Sutch has delivered 24 goals (tied for most on the team)
The Centennial/Spring Lake Park girls team are the Northwest Suburban Conference champs.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Annabelle Buccicone (5) knocked the puck past the skate of the White Bear Lake goalie for one of her three goals in a 12-3 win.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Hunkering down on penalty kill at Maple Grove were Joey Hemr, Caleb Krinkie and goalie Cody Easton.
Jack Driessen
Photo club offers photographers chance for feedback
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Members of an area photography club hope more photographers will attend a monthly meeting to share images and feedback.
The Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club meets from 10 a.m. to noon every third Saturday of every month. The club was founded about 15 years ago by Mike Prokosch.
Current co-presidents of the club are Barry Mullin, of Forest Lake, and Pat Boudreau, of Shoreview. Mullin did some photography in high school, but he didn’t “get serious” about photography until about 15 years ago. He mostly enjoys photographing Minnesota nature.
Boudreau has been interested in photography for about 10 years. She likes to experiment with landscapes, cityscapes, abstracts and florals.
The two both agree that they aren’t in it to turn their images into a business, but rather they enjoy photography as a hobby. That’s one thing that Mullin said makes the Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club unique from others around: it is noncompetitive. It’s not about who can take the best image, but how to improve the quality of everyone’s photos.
“Chris
“We learn from others and get feedback,” Mullin explained. “The purpose is to encourage photography and to support the people with an opportunity to share and learn.”
the images and discusses them.
“It is a lot about sharing. It is good to see other people’s images; sometimes that will inspire you,” Mullin said.
Most of the club’s members are from the northern metro area, but one member Zooms in to the in-person meeting from North Dakota. Many snowbirds also stay involved in the club throughout the winter via Zoom. At each meeting, photographers are asked to submit up to five images. The group then goes through each of
IF YOU GO:
10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 15
Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake
White Bear Township Details: Interested in photography and want to learn from other photographers? Check out Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club. The club meets at the Tamarack Nature Center the third Saturday of each month. Learn by sharing and discussing member images. All experience levels are welcome.
A core group of people are there every month, and a few members drop in every couple of months, but the club is always looking for more members to join in the fun. Mullin said it would be nice to have some “younger members.”
Boudreau said the socialization aspect of the club is important to her. “It is a good way to find people with similar interests,” she said.
In addition to the monthly meetings, the club takes outings to take photographs. Previously, members of the club have traveled to the state Capitol, sunflower fields and various state parks. Boudreau explained that the club would likely travel as far north as Jay Cooke State Park and as far south as Mankato.
For more information on the club, or to join, email TNCPhotoClubinfo@gmail.com.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
JEFF ZIMMERMAN | CONTRIBUTED
Celestial Michigan
HAKALA