Shoreview Press

Back To School

Behind the scenes

Shoreview family embarks on journey

BY MADELINE DOLBY STAFF WRITER

Russell family members and their close friends managed to cover over 19,000 feet of elevation in only eight days. For more than half the hike up Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, the group was at an elevation of between 13,000 and 15,000 feet; had crystal clear glimpses of the Milky Way; and experienced a trip they won’t forget.

Shoreview’s John Russell decided to embark on the climb with his two adult sons, his old college roommate, and his roommate’s oldest son. The group of five was looking for an adventure. Russell had done a lot of research on Mt. Kilimanjaro and aspired to do the climb.

“We were looking for something that was gonna challenge us physically, where we could experience a completely different part of the world and culture,” Russell said, “and then most importantly probably have a shared experience with each other. With some family and really close friends,” he added.

Mount Kilimanjaro ticked all of the boxes they were looking for.

The climb was perfect because “it was doable with just a reasonable level of fitness; it didn’t require technical mountain training or climbing skills or the risks that go with that,” Russell said.

Mounds View

At Mounds View High School, Principal Rob Reetz says that the administrative team has been working through the summer months to write up the annual school improvement plan and get the school ready to open to families after Labor Day.

The Mounds View High School improvement plan for this year consists of academic and connectedness goals and strategies. One large focus from Mounds View staff concerns

“building strong classroom communities and increasing engagement.”

Reetz believes that phones are a proven distraction and that they have a major impact on student’s mental health, detract from meaningful engagement in learning activities and don’t serve to deepen peer relationships.

“Having a better approach to engaging and reconnecting kids while limiting access to their phones is a major initiative for us this school year,” Reetz said.  Mounds View will also implement a “multitiered system of

supports for students who demonstrate lagging skills academically, socially or behaviorally.” This system will include both in-class and out-of-class interventions that are measurable and aligned with best instructional practices.

“While we have incredible access to college credit-earning courses for many students, we can predict that as many as 15% of ninth-grade students are unlikely to finish their

SEE BACK TO SCHOOL, PAGE

To prepare for it, he said that he practiced going on long hikes with a pack and hiking boots, did cardio, and lifted weights. SEE

CONTRIBUTED

The Russell family and friends climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in eight days.

We Do the Heavy Lifting for You!

Free school meals provide foundation for success

With the new school year only a few weeks away, state officials and educators are promoting Minnesota’s new Free School Meals for Kids Program.

The new program provides state reimbursement to schools participating in the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Students can have one breakfast and one lunch at no cost at school. The new program was signed into law by Gov. Tim Walz in March.

“Providing free breakfast and lunch at school is one of the best investments we can make in our students to support Minnesota’s working families, and care for our young learners and the future of our state,” said Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett.

MDE releases statewide assessment, accountability data

Educators say children who aren’t hungry during the school day are more attentive and learn better than those who haven’t had enough to eat.

“Kids come to school with a lot on their minds, and for many, that worry includes where their next meal will come from,” says Staci Murphy, a fourth-grade teacher at Hoover Elementary School in North Mankato. “Providing young people with healthy meals reduces student stress, improves their focus, and makes them better learners.”

For more information about the Free School Meals Program, visit https://education.mn.gov/MDE/dse/ FNS/SNP/free.

Minnesota Department of Education

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) has released the 2023 statewide assessment and accountability results.

The results confirm the need for continuing support for students and educators as they do the hard work of learning recovery by rebuilding connections and skills in all subject areas. The data also underscores the need for the investments in education made during the legislative session by Gov. Tim Walz and the Legislature in literacy, education workforce and student support.

Today’s release of the 2023 North Star Accountability report contains results of the 2023 statewide assessments, which include the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs), Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS), Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to-State for English Language Learners (ACCESS for ELLs), and Alternate ACCESS for ELLs.

Assessment results are mixed with a 1% increase in overall math scores, a 1% decrease in reading scores and a 2% decrease in science scores since assessments were last completed in 2022. Scores in each assessment area remain about 10 percentage points below their pre-pandemic levels from 2019.

“These statewide assessment results reinforce what we and other states around the country already know—our students, families, school communities and educators are continuing to recover from the pandemic and need our support,” said Commissioner Willie Jett. “This data is important as one part of a broader set of measures that tell us how our students and families are doing and what we need to do in partnership with our school communities to provide support for students to not only recover, but also excel.”

Students take statewide reading assessments in grades 3-8 and 10. Of the students who took the reading MCA and MTAS, 49.9% met or exceeded grade level standards, down 1.2 percentage points from 2022.

In math, 45.5% of students in grades 3-8 and 11 who took the MCA or MTAS met or exceeded grade level standards, up 0.7 percentage points from 2022.

The science MCA and MTAS are

administered for students in grades five and eight and once in high school. In 2023, 39.2% of students who took the assessments met or exceeded grade level standards, a 2.1 percentage point drop from 2022. ACCESS for ELLs measures students’ English language proficiency. Of the students who took the ACCESS for ELLs in 2023, 8.6% were proficient in English, a 0.2 percentage point decrease from 2022. MDE also released North Star attendance data for the 2021-22 school year. This is the first attendance data release since 2019. North Star Attendance data tracks consistent attendance, or the number of students who are attending school at least 90% of the time and who are not chronically absent. Statewide consistent attendance fell to 69.8% of students attending at least 90% of the time. Prior to the pandemic, Minnesota’s consistent attendance rate was about 85%.

“We will not shy away from what the data are telling us. These results send a renewed sense of urgency and underscore the importance of key supports that are already underway,” Jett said.

“As we enter a new school year, MDE is committed to providing support, through programs such as COMPASS and implementing the READ Act and other new legislation, to help every school in Minnesota as they strive to meet the academic, social-emotional and mental health needs of students.”

For the first time the assessment and accountability reports use the Minnesota definition for all racial student groups. The state definition allows students to be reported as American Indian even if they also belong to other racial and ethnic groups. Under the federal definition of American Indian or Alaska Native, these students would fall under “Hispanic/Latino” or “two or more races” and would not be counted as American Indian or Alaska Native in reporting.

Statewide assessment and accountability results are available online at https://rc.education. mn.gov/#mySchool/ or at https:// tinyurl.com/yc2wuk2j.

Minnesota Department of Education

BACK TO SCHOOL: Area districts gear up for 2023-24 school year

FROM PAGE 1

first year of high school with a GPA high enough to gain entry into Anoka Ramsey Community College courses as a sophomore,” Reetz said. “Our school improvement plan aims to ensure access for these 80-plus students, while also working to ensure they experience a school to which they feel they belong unconditionally.”

Much work has gone into professional development that helps teachers build a healthy and positive classroom environment and culture, along with strategies that increase student talk (dialogue with one another). Nine new teachers will join the Mounds View staff and are being onboarded by teacher leaders.

Deans have been working in August to connect with every ninth-grade student and family as part of Mounds View’s commitment to an effective transition from middle school. Gretchen Zahn, associate principal, is working along with the team of eight deans on the master high school schedule to ensure class sizes are balanced and right-sized. “My message to students and families is that this is their community school,” Reetz said. “We want families to feel heard and valued and to take pride in what remains an excellent school.”

White Bear Lake

At White Bear Lake High School, Don Bosch will remain principal at South Campus, with students in grades 11 and 12, before he retires at the end of the 2023-24 school year. Carrie Barth, who is a long-serving associate principal at South Campus, will serve a one-year appointment as North Campus principal with students in grades nine and 10 for 2023-24. Principal Russ Reetz, who began in the district this

Shoreview resident receives national engineering award

summer, will serve as the external-facing principal of the unified grades 9-12 at White Bear Lake Area High School.

At White Bear, school teams are working to update staff and student handbooks and prepare welcome-back communications to stakeholders.

At North Campus, the site of the future unified high school, the construction of the second phase continues with the renovation of the existing building and the addition of an 850-seat auditorium and art spaces. Staff continues to plan the school day around the ongoing construction, which will be completed when the school opens as a unified high school serving grades 9-12 in the fall of 2024.

Some “behind-the-scenes” tasks underway at White Bear include scheduling school picture days, planning for distribution of Chromebooks, facilitating parking passes and planning for events such as open houses and Homecoming. School teams are also working with LINK Crew members to plan welcoming activities for incoming ninthgrade students. They are working to onboard all new students, including working with families that are hosting foreign exchange students.

Throughout the summer, the grounds crew and building maintenance team members have been working to ensure the spaces are deep-cleaned and welcoming, ready for staff and students in the fall.

Mahtomedi

At Mahtomedi High School, Principal Justin Hahn highlights the fact that the month of August means preparing for workshop week, which is the week before school begins when all the teachers are back in the building collaborating and planning for the start of a new year.

Activities and athletics are also starting up in Mahtomedi, so the

activities director is busy supporting Mahtomedi’s many teams as they begin the fall season.

In the Mahtomedi School District as a whole, the roof of almost every building is being replaced. At the high school, an effort is underway to replace each SMART Board, as they are over 15 years old.

One thing Hahn highlights behind the scenes is the data analysis of grades from the end of the spring semester, which allows buildingwide goals to be established based on the data and where the school wants to improve.

“We are always excited to see our students return for another year,” Hahn said. “The work we do is to support and create a love of learning that continues beyond the walls of the school.”

Centennial

In the Centennial School District, over 50 new teachers have been hired, and staff members are preparing to hire over 60 new support staff.

Through the month of August, Centennial High School is preparing for fall activities and athletics, conducting Peer Leader training, and hosting a Fall KickOff for students. All Centennial schools are preparing for the return of students beginning Sept. 5.

In the fall, Centennial students will have access to a new multipurpose room at the Centennial Area Learning Center, which will allow more flexibility; new tennis courts at Centennial Middle School; and a renovated playground at Golden Lake Elementary School, thanks to funding from the Golden Lake PTO/PTA and the city of Circle Pines.

Shoreview resident

James Schneider of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District, is the recipient of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

2023 Timothy Skeen

Geotechnics Professional of the Year Award. He received the award for his commitment to excellence and contributions to the geotechnical engineering profession.

Schneider has actively supported Corps of Engineers geotechnical guidance updates; negotiated soft agreements; created an innovative script to plot pile-driving records and share the data through webbased maps; and led the advanced geotechnical modeling committee. He has presented at conferences, contributing over 60 journals and conference publications and serving as a reviewer for numerous scientific journals.

Read your favorite paper story views for subscribers Read your favorite paper ANYWHERE UNLIMITED story views for subscribers 651-407-1200 • presspubs.com Read your favorite paper ANYWHERE UNLIMITED story views for subscribers 651-407-1200 • presspubs.com Read your favorite paper ANYWHERE Read your favorite paper ANYWHERE UNLIMITED story views for subscribers 651-407-1200 • presspubs.com UNLIMITED story views for subscribers O u r e v e n t o n A u g u s t 1 0 t h w a s a n o t h e r s u c c e s s ! 2 0 2 3 c o m m u n i t y s p o n s o r s Thanksfor Coming! T h a n k y o u , 2 0 2 3 S p o n s o r s & V e n d o r s 2 0 2 3 b e e r , w i n e & f o o d v e n d o r s Allegra Print F & M Bank OSI Physical Therapy Kowalski's Market Minnesota Veterinary Hospital Old National Bank SKOL Marketing Edward Jones Pam and Glenn Bowers Press Publications Robert Rehkamp, CPA Dave Newman and Francesca Salvadori Bent Brewstillery Big Wood Brewing Blacklist Brewing Co Breakthru Beverage Group Castle Danger Brewery Creative Catering Gray Duck Vodka Hop & Barrel Johnson Brothers Montgomery Brewing Northern Soda Company Southern Glazer's Stonehouse Catering Tailgate Spices Urban Growler Wine & Spirits a r d e n h i l l s s h o r e v i e w r o t a r y o r g

Engineers’ Mississippi Valley Division regional technical specialist.

Compiled by Sebastian Studier

Don Bosch White Bear Lake Principal

Justin Hahn Mahtomedi Principal

Tom Breuning Centennial Principal

End of summer

Every year around this time I start thinking, “Where did summer go?”

A nother wedding anniversary and birthday are now in the books. My family vacation to Wisconsin Dells has come and gone and most of the city festivals have already happened. W here has the time gone? Can we hit pause or rewind? I can’t believe it’s already State Fair time. Before we know it, the school year will be here and it will be the season of pumpkin spice lattes.

I do love fall, but it never lasts long enough. And I HATE what comes after fall. I do have some things to look forward to this fall and winter though. This fall, I’m looking forward to the Sunflower Festival at Waldoch Farm, Fall Fest in Lexington and the Withrow Car Show.

Shannon’s Shenanigans

Shannon Granholm

Each fall my family and I always have to visit the apple orchard, specifically Applecrest orchards in Hugo, Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake or Aamodt’s Apple Farm in Stillwater.

My dogs, Frosty and Twinkie’s, birthdays are also this fall. Frosty’s birthday is Oct. 26 and Twinkie’s birthday is Nov. 16. We always celebrate with presents and pupcakes. I’m really praying that Frosty is still around for her 10th birthday. (See dog update below for more info.)

Something readers can look forward to this fall is finding out the results of our Readers’ Choice Best Of the Press Contest. Winners will be announced in a special publication in October.

T his winter, the main thing I’m dreading (and looking forward to at the same time) is my son Royce’s first birthday the day after Christmas. That will be quite the milestone for him and our family. I’m especially looking forward to watching him devour a smash cake.

Dog update

I f you read my previous column you probably recall that both of my dogs have had quite the year. Frosty, 9, was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy (DM) and Twinkie, 5, had to have her left eye removed.

DM is a disease that affects the spinal cord in dogs, causing progressive muscle weakness and loss of coordination. It acts similarly to Lou Gehrig’s disease, or ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), in humans.

It has been so heartbreaking to watch my once able-bodied German shepherd not be able to go up and down stairs and to fall over doing simple things like going to the bathroom or eating her food.

Every day her condition seems to get worse and I’m not sure how much longer her body will let her make it. She can no longer do the things she so loved to do like playing fetch, going for long walks or swimming.

We do have a doggy wheel chair to help her get around when she is outside of the house, but our split-entry home has too many steps for a wheel chair to work. She still seems like a happy girl but I dread the day when she no longer is.

T hankfully she is not in pain, but it must be scary having your feet fall out beneath you all the time.

T winkie, who was diagnosed with neurogenic dry eye, didn’t have any luck with any of the eye drops we tried. Right after Royce was born, she developed an ulcer on her eye, so we had to remove her eye before it ruptured or we would have lost her.

T winkie didn’t skip a beat thankfully. The worst part was coming off anesthesia and having the incision heal. But she was back to her sassy self almost immediately and doesn’t seem to notice the loss of her eye at all.

D ear time, please slow down. Please and thank you.

A

Field Trip to the State Capitol: Something That Will Last

was so different as an adult?

Movers

& Shakers

Sue Denkinger

My Mom was an elementary school teacher, and, besides education, she loved local history. Although she grew up on a dairy farm in South Dakota, she embraced the history of St. Paul where she raised her own family. While other kids may have been at the beach or playing in the neighborhood on a given summer day, we were often on Mom’s field trips to visit the state capitol or other historic buildings. She thought it was important to know the history of place. We did tour the state capitol and I remember the many stairs leading up to the building and eagerly climbing more stairs to get close to the golden horses.

It had been many years since I toured the Capitol. This past weekend I went and was amazed at its history, architecture, and art. What

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I was able to appreciate the incredible beauty inside—the marble columns, detailed wood and iron work, Sioux Quartzite from southwestern MN, St. Cloud granite, all representing different parts of Minnesota. A s a child, I didn’t recognize Minnesota’s efforts during the Civil War as well as other war efforts. Minnesota provided highly skilled military who were instrumental in the Battle at Gettysburg as well as numerous other Civil War battles and wars. I also hadn’t noticed the murals and other art highlighting the state’s original Native American residents and past civic leaders.

I found myself awestruck by the beauty of the building, what I hadn’t known about some of the state’s history, how many other monuments are on the capitol grounds and that I was not aware of a takeover of the state senate in 1937.

F rom 2013-2017, the Capitol building underwent a major renovation where marble on the exterior was replaced or repaired, murals and paintings were cleaned, accessibility features were added as well as infrastructure improvements. The renovation cost over $300

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million dollars while the original 1905 structure cost only $4.5 million to build. So why write an article about a Capitol tour? First, it’s a reminder about what it says about our state that we invested in an iconic structure that will last. The state capitol dome is the second largest selfsupporting marble dome in the world, only behind St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. It’s a reminder of how our state’s history shapes the present. Our history records both the good and the not so good about what occurred as our state took shape. It allows us to learn from our mistakes and define our future. It reminds us of our values (see the murals in the State Supreme Court chambers depicting the pillars of law). Most importantly, I came away feeling connected to the rest of the state despite political, geographic, and personal differences. I am proud to be a Minnesotan and thankful for the investment in a “people’s house” that builds pride, a sense of connectedness and one that will last.

Sue Denkinger is the mayor of Shoreview.

ELECTION

SEASON 2023

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Shoreview Farmers Market

When: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 29

Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St.

Details: The farmers market is a weekly summer event that brings the community together and features local fresh produce, handcrafted artisan items and live entertainment.

ONGOING EVENTS

WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET

When: 8 a.m.- noon Fridays through October

Where: Clark Street between Second and Third streets

Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week.

Contact: whitebearlake.org

MAHTOMEDI AREA FARMERS MARKET

When: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Sept. 30

Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 109 Mahtomedi Ave.

Details: Local growers, artisans and community resources.

Contact: ci.mahtomedi.mn.us.

HISTORIC COURTHOUSE GUIDED TOURS

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 Street, Stillwater

Details: Short introductory video followed by a tour of the courtroom, 1900s jail and exhibitions. Hear stories of the building’s construction and the people who worked there. Free admission.

At

Contact: 651-275-7075 or co.washing.mn.us/hc

CURRENT EVENTS

FAT TIRE BIKING

When: 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 30

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Campground, 7373 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Learn basic riding skills and ride off trails and in the remote areas of the park. Registration

information is available online.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

STARWATCH

When: 8:30-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1

Where: Lake Elmo Park reserve, 1515 Keats Ave. N.

Details: Learn about the constellations and watch the celestial show in the skies through a giant telescope. Registration required.

Contact: co.washington.mn.us; search “StarWatch”

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 1

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

Details: Ken Kohler will sign copies of his children’s book, “Benji and Iggie,” and White Bear native Katie Aune will sign “Finding Katya.”

Contact: 651-426-0918

FREE PRODUCE MARKET

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Sept. 7

Where: Willow Lane Elementary, 3375 Willow Ave., White Bear Lake

CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

The following occurred at the Shoreview City Council Meeting on Aug. 21:

• The Thyme Properties comprehensive plan will be sent back to the Planning Commission for review after the City Council voted 3-2 to do so.

• The Bobby Theisen Park and Shoreview Commons building designs were approved. They are a part of the Shoreview Master Parks Plan.

The cost estimates for the construction of the buildings have increased from the original concepts that were presented to the Parks and Recreation Commission and City Council last spring.

• The Shoreview Commons building’s new design includes five unisex single-use bathrooms, four of which will have infant changing tables; two gender-specific rooms with three stalls in each; and two covered picnic areas off each side of the building. One side will include a countertop that can be used to sell concessions.

Details: All are welcome to pick up free produce. Bring your own bag.

Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

AUTHOR VISIT

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

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

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

Contact: 651-426-0918

22ND ANNUAL BEAR WATER RUN

When: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 9

Where: Ramsey County Beach, 5050 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Ten or 20-mile course options around White Bear Lake. The event will benefit the White Bear Lake Lions Club programs. See details and registration information online.

Contact: whitebearlions.org/bear-water-run

WASHINGTON COUNTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

When: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 9

Where: Lake Elmo Park Reserve, south pavilion, 1515 Keats Ave. N.

Details: Free family-friendly festival includes concert performances by Blue Hazard, The Pale Ales, Chicken Wire Empire and Barley Jacks. Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Food trucks will be on site.

Contact: co.washington.mn.us.

TASTE OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: Saturday, Sept. 9

Details: Sample food and beverages from local establishments while supporting White Bear Rotary programs.

Contact: tasteofwhitebearlake.com

• The new building will be located next to the new destination playground and skate park, which have proven to draw many visitors.

• Bobby Theisen Park will now include four unisex single-use restrooms, all of which will include infant changing tables; a meeting room for recreation programs and rentals that will also serve as a warming house for the ice skating season; storage areas that will be utilized by youth athletic associations, community groups and the recreation department; and covered picnic areas.

• The original building at Bobby Theisen Park building has been removed in preparation for the new building.

In addition to the new parks building, Bobby Theisen Park will receive expanded pickleball courts. The updated park building will provide a gathering place for players, which is crucial to the social aspect of pickleball.

• Both park projects will go on simultaneously. The next City Council meeting is at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 5, at City Hall, 4600 Victoria Ave.

Madeline Dolby, Staff Writer

Send your questions to news@presspubs.com From, ou asked Dear readers, Have something you are curious about in the community? Submit your questions to the news team.

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COPS&COURTS

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected incidents in Shoreview

• A Bismarck, North Dakota, woman reported the car door lock of her vehicle forced open while it was parked at Snail Lake Park in the 4100 block of Snail Lake Blvd. N. on July 29. Several credit cards were stolen from a purse stashed on the floor of the car. The suspect then used the credit cards to purchase items at the Shoreview Target. Surveillance photos of the suspect using the cards have been obtained.

• A Mounds View woman, 38, was arrested for assault July 29 in the 3900 block of Gramsie Court after Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the report of a domestic. The suspect had gotten into an argument with a resident, pulled her hair, stole her medications and bit her in the eye when she was told to hand over the meds and leave. The subject has been charged in Ramsey County District Court.

• A Champlin man, 59, was arrested for DWI at midnight July 30 on Highway 96 and Lexington Avenue N. after he was seen driving the wrong way on the freeway. Deputies obtained a search warrant for a blood draw at Regions Hospital.

After nurses at the hospital performed the procedure, the subject was released. Charges are pending.

• A resident in the 900 block of Edgewater Avenue reported being swindled over the internet on July 31.

• A city official reported being harassed by a member of the public at 10:35 a.m. Aug. 1 in the 4600 block of Victoria Street N.

• A juvenile male and an adult male, 18, were banned from the Shoreview Community Center in the 4500 block of Victoria Street N. Aug. 1 after they were caught writing graffiti on signs. After the males were identified, they were trespassed from the premises for criminal damage to property. The juvenile male was released to the custody of his parent.

• A Shoreview man reported the rear passenger window of his vehicle broken in Aug. 2 while it was parked at Grass Lake Park and Nature Pre -

CONSTRUCTION BRIEF

Hodgson Road still under reconstruction

Hodgson Road is still under construction, as it has been since the beginning of summer. The road is being reconstructed from Gramsie Road/Rice Street to Bridge Street.

The purpose of the project is

serve in the 500 block of Gramsie Road. Nothing was taken from the vehicle.

• Deputies paid their weekly visit to the 500 block of Tomlyn Avenue on a domestic abuse no-contact order (DANCO) violation Aug. 2 after the suspect made phone calls and sent texts to the victim. The case has been forwarded to the city attorney for consideration of charges. An order for protection (OFP) violation was reported on Aug. 5 from the same address. This incident has also been forwarded to the city attorney’s office for review.

• U.S. Bank reported fraud Aug. 2 on behalf of a vulnerable adult in the 100 block of Galtier Place. Following a Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC) investigation and report, the case has been referred to the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office.

• Sabre Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning of Plymouth reported tools stolen from a work truck parked in a driveway in the 5700 block of Willow Trail overnight Aug. 2-3.

• A resident in the 1500 block of Park Street reported a burglary Aug. 4 after he returned home from vacation to find entry made through a window and $3,400 worth of items missing. The case is under investigation.

• Residents in the 100 block of Bridge Street reported being victims of an internet phishing scam on Aug. 4 after responding to an email claiming to be from Microsoft. The scammer persuaded the complainant to wire $10,000 to an unfamiliar bank account. After the victim’s bank stopped the transaction, the institution advised the complainant to report the incident to law enforcement. Deputies advised the complainant on follow-up measures to prevent identity theft on the information released to the scammer.

• A Shoreview woman, 23, was arrested for theft Aug. 5 in the 3400 block of Victoria Street after deputies responded to a domestic assault call.

to help and improve pedestrian and bike access in alignment with Ramsey County’s AllAbilities Transportation Network plan. Pedestrian facilities will help connect users to parks, schools, churches and residential neighborhoods. The reconstruction plan includes pavement replacement as

Loretta Harding

well as improved stormwater management.

Currently, the pond excavation and storm sewer work are both currently in progress.

More information about the reconstruction can be found online at ramseycounty.us under the “2023 Road Construction Maintenance” tab.

PUBLIC NOTICES

MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS MOUNDS VIEW, MN

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY, JUNE 20, 2023

Meetings take place at the District Center in Shoreview (4570 Victoria Street N). Complete minutes available upon request at the District Center.

Budget Amendment

Bernice Humnick, executive director of business services, presented a budget amendment for the period ending June 30, 2023. Each quarter provides an opportunity to review budget variances and make amendments when information becomes available. The Board approved the budget amendment for this reporting period as presented at the meeting. Details can be found on the Budgets & Finance page at mvpschools.org.

Budget Approved

The Board adopted the 2023-24 budget as presented by Bernice Humnick, executive director of business services. The fiscal year 2023-24 budget was developed based on assumptions provided by the School Board through several Board meetings and work sessions over the past six months. The proposed budgets represent the financial projections for the District for the general fund, nutrition services fund, community services fund, construction fund and debt service funds. The adopted budget can be viewed on the District’s website.

Superintendent’s Evaluation

Board vice chair Diane Glasheen summarized Superintendent Chris Lennox’s appraisal for the 2022-23 school year. She highlighted the Superintendent’s management, decision making, professionalism and drive toward performance.

Updates

The Board discussed issues and updates related to NE Metro 916, and shared updates on their activities and participation in events and committees around the District.

The following events occurred at the Mounds View School Board meeting:

• Eighteen gifts were received for schools and programs this period. The donations added to almost $8,000. Twelve gifts were received for the food shelf. The board accepted these donations and gave thanks to the donors.

• Superintendent Chris Lennox reminded the public that fall activities started on Monday for Minnesota State High School League activities.

• The catalog for fall community education activities is available online. Registration is open for these activities. All ages are encouraged to sign up.

• The superintendent highlighted the 916 Construction Occupation Program and the single-family home they built in North St. Paul.

• Angie Zappo, a career and technical educational teacher from the district, was selected as the recipient of the Genesis Works “School Champion of the Year” award.

• There will be multiple principal changes this fall at Island Lake, Turtle Lake and Sunnyside elementary schools.

• The district operational plan will be reinstalled for the 2023-24 school year. There will be a heavy focus on pre-kindergarten and kindergarten outreach; health, safety and security work; and a formal audit of the technology program.

• Irondale High School’s college and career center was remodeled this summer and classrooms dedicated to students who receive special education services were updated as well.

• Maintenance at the schools will be completed by Aug. 18. All schools will be ready by Sept. 5.

Thank you

The Board accepted with appreciation gifts from Becky Hepola - Travelers match, Karen Zieg Meck, Kimberly Clark Foundation, Your Cause Medtronic –Patrick McDonald, Securian Financial Foundation, Erin Derubeis, Ramona Holmes, Faith United Methodist Church - Pastor Jeff Ozanne, Barb and Robert Woodruff, Alerus Mortgage – Cheryl Hoban, Faith Christian Reformed Church - Pastors Erin and Adam Stout, Carley Foundry – Jordan Carley, Centennial United Methodist Church Roseville - Church and Society, Shepherd of the Hills – Tashina Good and Pastor Bryce, Pursuit Community Church - Pastor Mark Allen and Members, and Land O’Lakes – Amy K.M. Podlesak.

A Look Ahead August 15, 7 p.m., regular meeting (6:30 p.m. comments to the Board)

Published one time in the Shoreview Press on August 29, 2023.

U.S. ARMY

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

The Army is hosting an in-person public meeting of the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Arden Hills City Hall Community Room, 1245 West Highway 96, Arden Hills, MN 55112. The community is invited to attend this meeting where the Army will provide updates on the ongoing cleanup efforts at the former Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant, including Round Lake. If you have suggestions for agenda items or questions about the meeting, please email: usarmy.jbsa. imcom-aec.mbx.public-mailbox@army.mil or call 210-466-1590 or 443243-0313. If you would like to attend the upcoming meeting virtually, an MS Teams meeting link and call-in information is available. Please contact kay.toye@envrg.com or call 520-903-4363 to receive a meeting link and callin information.

Published one time in the Shoreview Press on August 29, 2023.

MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week If

pills bought online or on the street contain potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. Test strips and info at fentfacts.com

Madeline Dolby, Staff Writer

MOUNDS VIEW SCHOOL BOARD

KILIMANJARO: Four different climate zones in only eight days

FROM PAGE 1

One of Russell’s sons described the climb as being on an entirely different planet. The group went through four different climate zones. They experienced rain forests, the desert, lands that could be described as the Scottish highlands and, finally, an arctic zone. The trip was above the clouds, which allowed them to see the Milky Way every night and the moon reflecting off of the snow.

The most challenging aspect of the climb for the group was the high altitude.

“So for all of us along the way, we had various levels of difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, shortness of breath and fatigue. All that stuff,” Russell said in reference to the change in oxygen levels compared to those at Minnesota’s lower elevation.

Because they had no

prior experience at those altitudes, the thin air hit the group hard and made the climb a bit more difficult.

On the last day, Russell ended up getting altitude sickness the night before summiting. Ultimately, he decided to not finish the hike, since his illness could become life-threatening if not handled properly.

“It was a super positive experience for all of us. I don’t think any of us will ever forget it,” Russell said when reflecting on the climb.

On the climb, there was no cell service or internet connection, which allowed the climbers to disconnect from social media and work. Russell said they were able to fully “unplug” in a way that they had never experienced before. It allowed them to take in the beauty of the climb and surrounding

landscape.

Since the group had traveled that far, they decided to visit Serengeti National Park after their climb. Russell described it as like the Great Plains of the United States but with lions, elephants and all kinds of animals. The group spent four days there.

“It was a super cool bookend to the whole trip,” Russell said about the group’s experience at the national park.

As of right now, the climbers are not planning any future climbing trips — they are still digesting this one.

Madeline Dolby can be reached by emailing shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1226.

READ • REUSE • RECYCLE

651-407-1200 | presspubs.com

If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet.

Russell family and friends during their climb.

Honor

Thank you for your ser vice! We would like to give you a FREE break fast to go Drive up and we will run it out to you at the front door

To RSVP, please call Vicki at or email vseidl@preshomes.org by November 7th.

4 Minnesotans benefit from ‘robot legs’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

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

The Kourageous Karter Foundation will host the second annual fun run/walk, but this year closer to home in Hugo rather than in St. Paul.

“It just made sense to do it at Lions Park. It is the one playground that we go to frequently, we were involved in the design of the project, and it represents access and inclusion, which is the main point of the foundation that we created,” said Kourageous Karter founder Tiffany Goodchild. “We want to showcase the (inclusive) playground … it is one of the best ones.” Goodchild, a Hugo resident, launched a nonprofit, the Kourageous Karter Foundation, back in 2020 right before the pandemic hit. The organization’s mission is to raise money for causes that directly affect families like hers as well as to offer them resources.

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

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

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

CONTRIBUTED

PINE

Christopher Schlemmer, 10, of Forest Lake has

CONTRIBUTED

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

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

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

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

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

Cole Carlson, 6, of Hastings, has a similar story to Karter in that he was not expected to survive when he was born. He suffered a brain injury at birth, resulting in HIE, cerebral palsy and a seizure disorder. He received his robot legs in October 2022.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Korageous Karter Fun Run will be held at Lions Volunteer Park in Hugo Saturday, Sept. 16. The event will feature a variety of family-friendly activities, all while raising funds for the nonprofit organization that hopes to provide a scholarship to one child for a set of robot legs.

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

andArts Culture

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

EMERGING ARTIST SANYU MWASSA

“Idon’t think I would have a sliver of the confidence I do today without the arts, especially speech,” says 2024 senior Sanyu Mwassa. These are bold words, yet they are backed by a groundbreaking achievement: Sanyu Mwassa is the first person from White Bear Lake to reach the last round in the National Speech and Debate Association tournament, the United States’ premiere interscholastic speech meet.

Mwassa’s category, Dramatic Interpretation (DI), involves performing a 10-minute-or-less excerpt of a publicly available play, novel, or short story. Sanyu made the final cut, placing fourth in the country! In order to reach that level, Mwassa had to be intimately familiar with the sound of her own voice.

“My voice is on the more lyrical side but is mixed with a fuller sound,” Sanyu explains, “My inspirations… are definitely a lot of the sopranos that have been on Broadway, such as Laura Benati and Cynthia Erivo.” Mwassa’s musical approach to her voice stems from her participation in choir and musical theatre, which “have helped me grow immensely.” “I think [they’ve] also helped me see the world

through the same lens as the characters I have portrayed. Helping me better understand the complexity of life…” Sanyu adds.

While extracurriculars have played a major part in Sanyu’s success, Mwassa also credits her

sister, Nambi, for inspiration strength. “Seeing my sister perform on the stage inspired me to pursue music…” Sanyu recalls, “…She has constantly been one of my main supporters, and she is now one of my coaches for Speech!”

One look at Sanyu’s upcoming senior Speech season explains the need for multiple coaches. Not only is Mwassa once again participating in DI, but she is also double entering in Original Oratory as well. Additionally, Sanyu is looking forward to this year’s fall musical at White Bear Lake.

Beyond high school, Mwassa sees herself continuing her craft. Says Sanyu, “I plan on doing Speech in college competitively. I would like to incorporate the arts into my post college life and try coaching speech students myself!” Mwassa also has impressive ambition on where she wants to compete. “I plan to attend a university on the East Coast and hopefully major in journalism or communications in order to become a Creative Director,” Sanyu reports.

To achieve these goals, Mwassa intends on following simple-yet-profound advice: “Don’t think; just do.” Faith in her performing abilities will help Sanyu apply that advice. “Performing has taught me how to wear my heart on my sleeve and above all be vulnerable…”

Mwassa concludes, “Performing is an extension of oneself, and it allows me to convey and express myself in ways I never thought were possible.”

Explore upcoming Avenue of the Arts events with CPA, LPT and WBCA

NEA BIG READ KICK-OFF EVENT

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts

When: Saturday, September 9, 1-3 p.m.

Join WBCA for the official launch of this year’s NEA Big Read which will include plant-themed makeand-takes, a concert by Peter Widin, and an augmented reality exhibit by Marlena Myles. This is a free family event that celebrates the book “Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude” by Ross Gay.

THE ART OF THE BOOK PROPOSAL

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts

When: Saturday, September 9, 10 a.m.-Noon

You’ve finished your book—or you’ve got one in the works—but how do you position that work for agents or publishers? In this class you’ll go through step-by-step the elements of a book proposal.

INSPIRED BY NATURE COMMUNITY RECEPTION

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts

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

Come and enjoy the Inspired by Nature exhibit, in which artists from the Great River Chapter of Botanical Artists depict the plants around us with scientific accuracy and aesthetic sensitivity.

MIGHTY SWORDS AND MIGHTY PENS FOR LAKESHORE PLAYERS IN SEPTEMBER

The Three Musketeers Comic books and stage theatre may seem an odd pairing at first glance, but Lakeshore Players’ upcoming production smelts the two concepts together with The Three Musketeers, their 71st season’s inaugural play running September 15th to October 1st.

“We’re used to reading The Three Musketeers as one book,” explains Megan Pence, Lakeshore Players’ executive director, “but Alexandre Dumas originally published it as a serial adventure in a newspaper.” This gave show director Eric Morris the idea to “Marvel”-ize the show.

“It’ll feel like a comic book come to life!” Pence exclaims. Such a distinct take on the material makes sense because of the timing. Kids will be firmly back in school, and families will be back from their summer trips.

“We wanted a really fun show to kick off the year,” Pence states, “It’s very family friendly.” Longtime theatre fans will also delight in a script written by fan favorite Ken Ludwig.

“When Ludwig writes a show, you know it’s gonna be fun, funny, and energetic,” grins Pence.

Of course, no adventure comic-book is complete without fight scenes. Here, Megan Pence’s eyes gleam in excitement. “There’s very stylized stage combat. Everyone’s gonna pick up a sword at some point!”

What the Constitution Means to Me

September 17th is National Constitution Day, so Lakeshore Players will be performing one of their most ambitious shows yet—What the Constitution Means to Me. Appropriately, the executive director of the Minnesota chapter of the American Civil Liberty Union will give a preshow talk an hour before curtains go up.

“This show is not safe in any way,” Megan Pence, executive director of Lakeshore Players advises, “It’s intended for 14 plus. There are heavy topics and heavy language.” With such a discretionary warning, Pence’s

summation of the show is surprising.

“It’s humorous,” Pence shrugs, “Yes, it’s upfront and honest, but just because this show has a ‘trigger warning’ doesn’t mean people should automatically be against it.” According to Pence, the show also take pains to familiarize the audience with complex governmental concepts. The ninth amendment and its vague uses, for instance, receive verbal jabs from the play’s characters.

Pence also stresses that the show is not motivated by a political agenda, but does have a defined viewpoint. “That’s what makes the show so engaging and accessible,” Pence explains, “It’s one woman’s perspective in her own life.”

In the next breath, Pence points out that the show is not one person preaching her viewpoints. “The second act is really fun because it’s a debate with perspectives of different generations. Because of that, each character gives unexpected generational views. Certain audience members even get to vote for the winner of the debate at the end!”

CHILDREN’S PERFORMING ARTS BREWING SOMETHING MAGICAL FOR OCTOBER’S MASQUE

“Magical Attire is something to which we aspire but not something which we require,” Sharon HaniflLee says of this year’s Masque—Children’s Performing Arts’ (CPA) annual fundraiser. Though the event takes place October 14th, registration is open throughout September with an RSVP of October 1st.

VIP tickets come with special early access, an all-night open bar, reserved seating, and an afterparty complete with goodie bag. The regular admission includes drink tickets, heavy appetizers, and late-night snacks.

All ticket holders are treated to an evening program and entertainment. Should one miss the RSVP date, they can still register to attend the evening program through October 14th dependent upon availability.

Everyone in attendance will also have access to silent-auction viewing 30 minutes before the program begins.

The aim of the fundraiser is twofold: to provide scholarships for CPA camps and to keep tickets affordable for the community.

“The scholarships are so important,” HaniflLee remarks, “We have kids that want to take our classes and learn these skills, but their parents maybe can’t afford it. We can

say, ‘Hey, come anyway. We want you here.’”

The other feature CPA offers is “Pay What You Can” performances. “Families are still not fully going out yet after COVID,” HaniflLee explains, “So many say to themselves, ‘Why should we? Let’s just watch a movie or a streaming service at home with the kids. Let’s stay in.’” Pay-What-You-Can pricing, then, allows members of the community to remove cost as a factor when considering which shows to attend.

While Pay-What-You-Can performances solves an audience problem, it creates a pricing issue backstage. “[Artists] cost more these days,” Hanifl-Lee points out, “and they

should! Look at the price of gas—general cost of living. If you’re traveling to our center to help these kids put on a show, you deserve to be fairly compensated.” The Masque fundraiser’s enchanting touch, therefore, is needed to make sure everyone has the opportunity to be transported by the magic of theatre.

“The arts should be accessible to everyone,” Hanifl-Lee states emphatically, “not just those who aren’t concerned about inflation.”

To register, visit childrensperformingartsmn.org/support/ masque-gala

Meet and greet: Introducing new Lino Lakes Ambassadors

Libbie Vander Vegt, Carley Gooder and Katie Kerr are the next Lino Lakes Ambassadors.

Ten candidates vied for three spots. The Miss Lino Lakes Ambassador program was established in 2004 as part of Blue Heron Days. The ambassadors will represent the city at various parades, coronations, volunteer events and fundraisers throughout the Twin Cities. The goal of the program is to empower young women by giving them the opportunity to be leaders, strengthen their communication skills and build their confidence.

The Quad Community Press recently interviewed the three young women to learn more about them and introduce them to the community.

Libbie Vander Vegt

Q: Do/did you attend Centennial High School? If so, what year are you in school or what year did you graduate? If you graduated what are you up to these days?

A: I will be a junior at Forest Lake High School this fall.

Q: Why did you want to be a Lino Lakes ambassador?

A: I wanted to be an ambassador because I wanted to be someone that people could look up to and be able to help everyone in our community.

Q: What other organizations/activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, organizations, jobs, etc.)?

A: I am on the Forest Lake Dance Team along with being a competitive dancer and teacher assistant at Lorenz Dance and Tumbling Studio and this year I will also be a Link Leader at Forest Lake High School.

Q: What are you looking forward to about your time as an ambassador?

A: I’m looking forward to meeting so many people from our community and from other communities all over the state and also being able make a positive impact in our community.

Q: What do you hope to get out of your experience as an ambassador?

A: I hope to better improve my public speaking and also really use my year to get out of my comfort zone and try new things.

Q: What are your plans after your time as an ambassador?

A: After High School I hope to attend a 4 year college where I can major in sports management along with a minor in dance education.

Q: Is there anything else you want the community to know about you or the program?

A: Something I think people should know is if you are thinking about joining the program give it a try. Because I have grown so much just through the candidacy process and made lifelong friendships that I would have never made without this amazing program.

Carley Gooder

Q: Do/did you attend Centennial High School? If so, what year are you in school or what year did you graduate? If you graduated what are you up to these days?

A: I am a senior at Centennial High school (class of 2024).

Q: Why did you want to be a Lino Lakes ambassador?

A: I wanted to be a Lino Lakes ambassador to be a role model for younger girls as well as gaining confidence in public speaking.

Q: What other organizations/activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, organizations, jobs, etc.)?

A: I currently work at TPC Twin Cities which is a golf course located in Blaine, Minnesota.

Q: What are you looking forward to about your time as an ambassador?

A: What I’m most looking forward to as my time as an ambassador are the skills and friendships I will gain.

Q: What do you hope to get out of your experience as an ambassador?

A: My hope is to gain self-confidence as an ambassador.

Q: What are your plans after your time as an ambassador?

A: After being an ambassador and graduating high school, I plan to go pursue my career in orthodontics with hopes of going to Iowa University.

Q: Is there anything else you want the community to know about you or the program?

A: This program is truly amazing and I encourage all young women to join. I learned a lot during my candidacy experience from interview tips, professionalism attire, how to give a good speech, and I met a lot of incredible women.

Katie Kerr

Q: Do/did you attend Centennial High School? If so, what year are you in school or what year did you graduate? If you graduated what are you up to these days?

A: I am currently still attending Centennial High School going into my junior year.

Q: Why did you want to be a Lino Lakes ambassador?

A: I wanted to become a Lino Lakes Ambassador because of Lauren Scheurer (2022-2023 Ambassador). Lauren had so many great things to say about the program and I love getting to know people around the community as well as volunteering.

Q: What other organizations/activities are you involved in (sports, clubs, organizations, jobs, etc.)?

A: I am a Centennial Varsity cheerleader and a girls Lacrosse player.

Q: What are you looking forward to about your time as an ambassador?

A: I am looking forward to bonding with my crown sisters (Carley and Libbie) and attending so many great events around Minnesota.

Q: What do you hope to get out of your experience as an ambassador?

A: I hope to become even more confident in public speaking and stepping out of my comfort zone when talking to new people.

Q: What are your plans after your time as an ambassador?

A: I plan on finishing my senior year at Centennial High, then go on to getting a degree in business administration at the University of St. Thomas.

Q: Is there anything else you want the community to know about you or the program?

A: I am so honored to be a Lino Lakes Ambassador and I encourage young woman around Minnesota to step out of their comfort zones when new opportunities come their way because you never know you might just do great things.

Compiled by Shannon Granholm

Carley Gooder

Libbie Vander Vegt

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED Katie Kerr

The ambassadors will represent the city of Lino Lakes at various events throughout 2023 and 2024.

Libbie Vander Vegt, Carley Gooder and Katie Kerr are the new Lino Lakes ambassadors.

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW CROSS COUNTRY // BOYS

Coaches: Aaron Thompson, Tom Wentworth

Assistant: Ross Fleming

Last year: 2nd in conference, 1st in section, 5th in state

Captains: Levi Hammerbeck, Cayden Stoner, Noah Hammet-Divine

Returning starters: Seniors: Cayden Stoner, Levi Hammerbeck, August Arnold, Otto Coleman; Juniors: Owen Kalmes, Sam Geer

Also in the lineup: Senior: Lincoln Maloney; Junior: Joseph Cole

Fast facts: Kalmes was 7th in conference, 6th in section and 39th at state last year. Stoner was 11th in conference and in the section and 44th at state. Hammerbeck was 13th in conference, 9th at sections and 47th at state.

Coaching change: Fleming, coach for 37 years, switched roles with his assistants Thompson (an assistant for 12 years) and Wentworth (five years), both of whom ran for him in high school. Fleming will coach 38 junior varsity runners and the two head coaches will coach 22 varsity runners

Coach Wentworth says: “We’re very excited about the team. Despite graduating three of our top seven, we return a strong core of juniors and seniors. The boys have high

ambitions and put in the work this summer towards achieving them. They had some of the highest attendance at summer captains’ practices that I can recall. I believe we’re one of the deepest programs in the state as a result. We’re excited to see what we can do.”

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW CROSS COUNTRY // GIRLS

Coach: Jimmy McArthur (13th year)

Assistants: Anna Blaske, Ingrid Narum

Last year: 1st in conference, 1st in section, 3rd in state

In the lineup: Seniors: Emily Mehta, Maya Surve, Clare Sabba, Anya Stupar, Maeve Edgar; Juniors: Maya Francisco, Malaina Brodin; Sophomores: Adela Peterson; Freshmen: Linnea Ousdigian, Abby Urriola, Emma Stupar

Fast facts: Ousdigian placed 10th in the state, 1st in the section and 2nd in the conference last year; Mehta was 5th in the section and 49th at state.

Coach says: “We have a wonderful group, great captains and a lot of girls who have improved over the summer. Maya and Abby are two to watch this fall, along with the combination of Mehta and Linnea.”

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW VOLLEYBALL

Coach: Tom Weko (22nd year)

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW SWIMMING

Assistants: Alicia Jefferson, Jackie Virnig, Taylor Linn

Juniors: Lily Ryan (outside hitter), Gigi Otto (right side), Addison Persuitti (outside hitter), Maddy Hakes (middle hitter);

Freshman: Lana Wymer (middle hitter)

Coach: Chris Yauch (6th year)

Assistants: Rachael

Ostrom, Jack Hoeger

Returning starters:

Seniors: Erika Turkington (butterfly), Alexis Easley (butterfly, 50 free), Jamie Nick (breaststroke), Anna Olson (backstroke); Juniors: Grace Bury (breaststroke), Olivia Landberg (freestyle),

Lydia Vranyes (backstroke), Samantha Wheeler (freestyle, backstroke), Hannah Song (freestyle); Sophomores: Ellie Bina (freestyle, IM), Kayley McKee (freestyle, IM)

Also in lineup: Seniors: Renee Defeyter, Jamie Nick; Sophomores: Kaitlyn Walker, Mia Stern

Fast facts: Bina placed 5th in the state in the 500 and seventh in the 200 and holds school records in both

Last year: 2-7 conference, 10-18 overall Captains: Audrey Kocon, Emma Nordeen, Avery Jedlenski, Kaydence Keller

Returning starters: Seniors: Kocon (setter, outside hitter); Juniors: Nordeen (outside hitter), Jedlenski (defensive specialist), Keller (defensive specialist); Sophomores: Victoria Kurilov (middle hitter), Rylee Loween (setter)

Also in the lineup: Senior: Ava Tensen (right side), Abby Petty (defensive specialist);

Fast facts: Kocon led with 348 kills reaching the 1000 kill mark, 285 assists and 46 aces last year and was named coaches all-state and all-conference (second time); Nordeen was second with 145 kills.

Coach says: “We have a strong core returning and by adding some missing pieces due to graduation, we should be very competitive. The goal is to be playing our best volleyball at the end of October giving us a chance to go deep in the section tournament and possibly a state tournament birth. The key will be consistency and how quickly the newcomers gel with the returners.”

CONTRIBUTED

Linnea Ousdigian

CONTRIBUTED

Cayden Stoner

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW FOOTBALL

Coach: Aaron Moberg (7th year)

Assistants: Bryan Woodley (offensive coordinator), Reed Thompson, Brett Michel, Aaron Redman, Joe Palke, Vince Calistro (defensive coordinator), Jim Wilcek, Mike Odom, Aaron Mehan

Last year: 3-7 overall, 2-4 conference

Captains: Evan Hatton, Gabe Lundgren, Tyler Nyström

Returning starters, offense:

Seniors: Nystrom (wide receiver), Peter Nguyen (wide receiver), Ryan Litecky (line), Lundgren (line), DJ Koch (running back)

Retiring starters, defense:

Seniors: Colin Elliott (safety), Hatton (outside linebacker), Owen Farm (free safety), Ben Hoiland (kicker); Juniors: Joey Muhlstein (inside linebacker), Mitch Olson (outside linebacker)

Also in the lineup, offense:

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW SOCCER//GIRLS

Coach: John Pass

Assistants: Grace Kruger (varsity assistant), Izzy Smith (goalkeeping)

Last year: 3rd place in state, 7-2 conference, 15-51 overall, section champs

Captains: Amelia Gregory, Kyra Chervany, Mica Ledesma, Sierra Swallen

Returning starters: Seniors: Amelia Gregory (D), Mica Ledesma (D), Sierra Swallen (M), Kyra Chervany (F), Sophia Ohmann (F); Juniors: Lily Peleska (D), Veronica Warren (M), Berklee Reelfs (F); Sophomore: Ivy Nystrom (D)

Also in the lineup: Seniors: Anya Westlund (midfield), Mackenzie Hanna (forward); Juniors: Karin Hoyt (junior); Sophomores: Finja Poecher (goalie), Amy Wu (midfield), Olivia Overbo (midfield), Karen Manning (midfield); Freshman: Emily Bly (midfield); 8th grade: Ida Wynn (forward), Pakou Yang (midfield)

CONTRIBUTED

Tyler Nystrom

Senior: Joey Fretheim (quarterback); Juniors: Jacob Sampson (quarterback), Jack Bongard (running back), Jonah Willford (line), Hudson Voght (line), Caleb Lundgren (line)

Also in the lineup, defense: Seniors: Wes Dolton (line), Chuck Kelly (defensive back), Adrian Cortes (defensive back); Juniors: Sam Crane (line), Birk Swenson (line), Joe Kostolnik (inside linebacker), Jacob Jude (inside linebacker)

Fast facts: Hatton has made 30 tackles-for-loss in his career (school record) and shared the district defensive MVP award last year; Hatton, Elliott and Nystrom also made all-district; Nystrom caught 70 passes for 693 yards and six touchdowns

Coach says: “Love this group of kids. We had an off season of high-level investment. We have a number of key players with a wealth of experience. This group went through a lot of adversity losing four tight games to start the 2022 season. Many made key contributions in our playoff win over Champlin.”

About the offense: “We want to be balanced. Building a strong run game is a high priority. All three backs (Koch, Bongard, and Olson) got varsity experience. Guys up front are led by Lundgren and Litecky. They had a great off season in the weight room. All projected starters made our 800 Pound Club. We return our top two receivers, Nystrom and Nguyen. At quarterback, we have talented and strong leaders in Fretheim and Sampson. They bring different gifts to the table and we plan to play both.”

About the defense: “We are not big but we will rely on our speed. Up front, Dolton, Crane, and Swenson move well and play with a lot of heart. At OLB, we have district defensive MVP Hatton. We will lean on him to make big plays. Olson brings speed and tenacity off the edge. Muhlstein is coming off an all-district HM sophomore season. We also look to Kostolnik for a big junior season. Elliott and Farm on the back end are talented leaders. Kelly is poised for a big season at corner.”

About special teams: “Hoiland is on his way to kick for St. Thomas next year. He has a range up to 55 yards. Long snapper Gabe Lundgren was a rock for us last year on punts and field goals.”

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW SOCCER // BOYS

Coach: Joe Warren (6th year)

Assistants: Erick Stevens, Nate Zell, Kevin Arnold, Andrew Lovelett

Last year: 3-5-1 conference, 6-8-2 overall

The lineup: Seniors: Asher Wynn, Sebastian Gallegos, Derick Stevens, Bradley Miller, Jammes Garcia, George Deibert, Oliver Elias, Samuel Lopez Borjon, Jason Catrine, Martin Gallegos, Colin Snustad, Lukas Hoyt, Matthew Higley; Juniors: Dane Peterson, Cormac McSherry, Ali Ahmed; Sophomores: Max Ohman, Everett Wynn, Sean Oh, Asher Compton

Fast facts: Gregory was all-metro second team (Star-Tribune) and all-state tournament last year; Top scorers back are Ohmamn (13 goals, 10 assists) and Swallen (four goals, 10 assists)

New coach: John Pass, a veteran club coach, succeeds Katelyn Fast, who stepped down after seven seasons.

Coach says: “I’m very excited about this team. There is a good blend of experience and young talent. Versatile and intelligent players make us very flexible. I demand my teams to make good decisions with the ball that allow us to control games and have the

CONTRIBUTED

Amelia Gregory

ball a lot. The technical and tactical level of the players will allow us to do that. Look for us to be brave in possession in terms of our spacing, patient in our build ups, and proactive defensively.”

MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW TENNIS

Coach: Scott Sundstrom (7th year)

Assistant: Becky Johnson (6th year)

Last year: 19-7, 5th place at state, conference and section champions

Captains: Isabella Myrland, Annabelle Huang

In the lineup: Seniors: Annabelle Huang, Isabella Myrland, Maddie Shen, Sonali Bhaskar; Juniors: Shae Crockarell, Avery Schifsky, Annika Dox, Avery Dove; Sophomores: Rory Wahlstrand; Freshman: Stella Fagerlee, Sophia KostinovskI; 8th grade: Reese Whalstrand

Fast facts: Mryland, Huang, Wahlstrand, Crockarell and Schifsky were all-conference. Coach says: “We have a very deep team this year with many tournament players. This team is cohesive and has a great opportunity to make a strong run at the state tournament.” CONTRIBUTED

Rory Wahlstrand

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GIRLS SOCCER

Mounds View girls soccer won 4-0 at Coon Rapids on Saturday. Karin Hoyt tallied the lone goal of the first half with a shot from about 20 yards that slipped through the goalie’s hands. Anya Westlund, Veronica Warren, and Sophia Ohmann added to the lead in the second half. Finja Poecher was in goal for the shutout. It marked the first win for new coach John Pass. The Mustangs are 1-1. They lost their opener to Champlin Park on Thursday.

TENNIS

Mounds View had a 2-4 record after opening with six opponents who were all ranked in the top 12 at the end of last season. The Mustangs lost to Wayzata 4-3 and beat BenildeSt. Margaret’s 7-0 on Aug. 19 at Minnetonka. They lost to Edina 6-1 at home Aug. 23. On Saturday at Rochester, the Mustangs lost to Maple Grove 4-3 and Elk River 5-2, then beat Eden Prairie 5-2. Against this grueling schedule, Rory Wahlstrand went 4-2 at 1-singles, Reese Wahlstrand 3-3 at 2-singles, and Avery Schifsky 2-3 at 3-singles. Annabelle Huang is 4-2 at 1-doubles with three partners. Doubles pairings have varied except for Stella Fagerlee and Sonali Bhaskar teaming for all six matches (five at No. 3, one at No. 2) with a 5-1 record.

FOOTBALL

Mounds View will open the season hosting Farmington on Thursday, kickoff 7 p.m. Farmington, new on the Mustangs schedule, was 1-8 last season. Mounds View was 3-7.

VOLLEYBALL

Mounds View won its opener Friday, downing Spring Lake Park 25-9, 25-19, 2025, 25-21.

BOYS SOCCER

Mounds View opened with a 3-1 win over Mahtomedi on Saturday at the National Sports Center. Seba Gallegos Guadarrama tallied two goals and Asher Wynn had the other. Derick Stevens, goalie, stopped five of six shots.

Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

We seem to have lost our mojo for rain. Our last significant rainfall came back on August 13-14. Since then it’s been pretty dry. We experienced a nice 6-week period of near to above normal precipitation from July 4th to mid August. The jet stream has shifted from a heat bubble over us to nice Canadian flow. It was a brief run of 90º temperatures and this summer’s highest dew point (in the mid 70’s) last week, but it cooled o nicely this past weekend. I heard talk of turning on the furnace. Did you? I hope not. The State Fair has passed and now kids are o to school but our summer temperatures have not left us, as hot weather

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BRUCE STRAND

Karin Hoyt (21) booted the ball from about 20 yards for Mounds View’s first goal of the season at Coon Rapids on Saturday.

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Get a taste of Italy with Romina

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

Romina Montanari believes in the art of bringing people together with food.

She started her own business, Italy with Romina, to teach people how to cook fresh pasta the Italian way.

“I developed this idea to keep the tradition alive from Italy and at the same time teach people the value of getting together, making food together, sitting down at the table and eating together,” Montanari said. “It is a very important value that is getting lost, I think, through the generations. Everybody eats in front of the TV or everybody's in a hurry. Nobody wants to spend time preparing a “from scratch” dinner, but I think it's really important.”

Montanari, of White Bear Lake, grew up in Modena in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy. She said it is widely considered the culinary capital of Italy and the food valley of the world. It is also the sister city of St. Paul.

As a teenager, she met with a dietician to create a healthier diet and started to learn about food. “I have always been passionate about food and learned about Italian cuisine in the kitchen with my mother and aunts,” she said.

She moved to Minnesota when she met her husband, Tom, in San Francisco. She is a professional cook, ServSafe food certified and an Italian Wine Scholar Guild member.

She teaches fresh pasta cooking classes, leads regional dishes workshops and organizes Italian food and wine events for the Italian Cultural Center of Minneapolis/ St. Paul. “Making fresh pasta and teaching other people how to do it has been my passion for the last 10 years,” Montanari said.

She describes each Italy with Romina session as a lively hands-on pasta-making class that helps people learn about the different aspects of regional Italy and gives people all the tools they need to make fresh pasta at home.

“I decide which pasta to make based on which region they would like to focus on,” Montanari said. “I put together a menu for them including the appetizers, the salad, wine and dessert. We're celebrating that region.”

First, Montanari teaches dough techniques — rolling, cutting and folding pasta. She shares her own experiences making pasta over the years. Then people roll their dough and start making pasta.

Based on the regional pasta theme chosen, people have an array of tools and ingredients to use. And along the way, Montanari talks about the region chosen as the theme including the history, culture and some interesting anecdotes.

Once everyone’s pasta is rolled, pressed and cut, it’s time to relax. Montanari said guests can put their feet up and congratulate each other on their good work, while she handles the final stages of preparation. She'll make the sauce that complements the particular pasta chosen.

“Then they can gather around the table and enjoy their meal together,” Montanari said. “That is the most authentic Italian tradition of all.”

Montanari will be hosting an informational meeting for the 2024 Boutique Food and Wine Tour in Piedmont-Langhe from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, at the Boatworks Commons community room. She coordinates food and wine tours in Italy, where visitors can learn about the authentic tastes of the region through vineyard visits and cooking classes. Participants will also get to visit local landmarks and small farms.

“I'm more Italian in America than I was Italian in Italy, because what you have as an Italian here is a gift and when you're in Italy it's taken for granted,” Montanari said.

Besides cooking from scratch, she enjoys biking, yoga and stand-up paddleboarding.

“I'm just a very natural person and

I really believe in food as a medicine and it's very important to me,” she said. “Growing up in Italy, my mother showed me how food was important, because she always went to buy fresh produce and fresh meat directly from the farmer. She brought me to all these farmers in the mountain and we'd go get the eggs, the meat and the

fresh salad. Every time I got sick, she always asked me, 'What did you eat?' It's something really embedded in me.”

To learn more, go to www. italywithromina.com/.

Expanded Therapists

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

(From left) Felicia Engen, Jenny Ogden, Romina Montanari, Rachel Bonin, Stacey King and Beth Lindberg at an Italy with Romina pasta party at Bonin’s home.

Romina Montanari whipping up something Italian in the kitchen.

(From left) Jeff Ruehle, Kjersti Ruehle, Gigi Birkeland, Suzie Baukol, Ursula Baukol, Shelley Birkeland, Romina Montanari, Beth Hudson, Julie Sexson, Gay Baukol and Karmel Ackerman in Piedmont-Italy at Montanari’s Boutique Food and Wine Tour 2023.

Ongoing Wine Club membership. See website for info. Two Silo Winery Ongoing Winey Tour every Sat & Sun 4-5 pm Two Silo Winery

Open to public Th-Su unless closed for private event. Belle Ame Vineyard

and Canvas Painting Party