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POLAR PLUNGE: ‘Bucket list’ item for many. PAGE 6

Anoka County requests $6.75 million for missing trail link BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

What will it will take to construct the 1.75-mile trail gap in the Rice Creek North Regional Trail, otherwise known as the “missing link?” A cool $6.75 million. “We have been trying to fund this for about 30 years,” Anoka County Commissioner Jeff Reinert explained. The Rice Creek North Regional Trail is a 10-foot-wide 8-mile paved trail that follows Rice Creek through the southeast quadrant of the county. It provides a connection between Anoka and Ramsey counties and connects the cities of Blaine, Circle Pines and Lino Lakes. The trail also connects to the

East Anoka County Regional Trail, Bunker Chain of Lakes Regional Trail, and the Rice Creek Regional Trail system in Ramsey County. The history of the trail dates all the way back to the 1980s, when Anoka and Ramsey counties partnered to develop the 28 miles of trail. The gap in the trail system is between Golden Lake Elementary School and Baldwin Park in Circle Pines. Anoka County Parks Director Jeff Perry says constructing the missing link is particularly costly, as both pedestrian bridges and boardwalks will be required to traverse through wetlands. SEE TRAIL FUNDING, PAGE 6

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Anoka County is requesting $6.75 million in state funds to construct the missing link, or the 1.75-mile trail gap in the Rice Creek North Regional Trail.

Some counties, cities struggle to find election judges BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

FILE

Snow day at Wargo

On Election Day, there can be as many as 30,000 election judges temporarily employed at polling places across Minnesota. Finding qualified applicants has become a bit of a challenge for many counties and cities. Election judges are temporary, paid employees of local election officials trained to handle all aspects of voting at the polling place. The opportunity allows judges to learn about elections while serving their communities. In Lino Lakes, the number of election judges seems to be down from past major election years, but there isn’t a huge cause for concern just yet. City Clerk Jolleen Chaika says that so far, the city has received around 61 applications. She said she has the number of judges she needs to staff the polling locations in the city for the presidential nominating primary on March 5 and the state primary on Aug. 13, due to historically lower voter turnout than on election day in November. “I would like to see additional election judges for the primaries; life happens, and sometimes folks need to step down at the last minute,” she explained. “I will certainly need many more for the November election. I would like to see at least double what I have now for Nov. 5.”

The Wargo Nature Center will host its annual Snow Day from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27. Participants of all ages will have a chance to partake in a variety of winter activities, including: snow shoeing, ice fishing, kick-sledding, fat tire biking, winter crafts, temporary tattoos and a live animal presentation.

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2 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS

JANUARY 23, 2024

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Centennial details 2024 priorities with area legislators

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Rep. Elliott Engen (R, District 36A), Sen. Heather Gustafson (DFL, District 36) and Sen. Michael Kreun (R, District 32) all share their thoughts with Centennial School District staff and school board members at the annual legislative breakfast. Another priority this legislative session is long-term facilities maintenance revenue, which the district uses to repair facilities. The district would also like to see a change in funding formulas to allow for and expand uses for the school board to address facility needs. Chaffey said inflation has had a “significant impact” on the district’s purchasing power. Since 2015, the district has been capped at spending $380 per pupil. If that number had kept up with inflation, it would be $489 per pupil, he said. “This is a 28% decrease in purchasing power,” he explained. Lastly, the district would like to see changes when it comes to compensatory revenue. The district is asking legislators to stabilize the formula beyond the holdharmless period by using factors other than eligibility for free or reduced-price lunch. “Our demographics are changing,” Chaffey said. “The level of poverty in our school has been increasing over the past several years. He added that with the passage of the Free School meals Program, it has become particularly challenging to accurately determine student income thresholds, which is a part of the current

formula. The district also would like legislators to spend some time providing clarity on provisions of approved legislation in 2023, particularly the Read Act, unemployment insurance, Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) and school resource officers. “We want to do right by our community, right by our students. We are just seeing some challenges when it comes to implementation (of those things),” Holmberg said. “Some of these timelines are complicated, and it is going to be a challenge to get these things fully implemented.”

“The take-home is there was a lot of good work and a lot of good intentions,” said School Board Member Tom Knisely. “But when good intentions hit the real world, sometimes there are things that don’t quite work out quite the way it was envisioned or intentioned. Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

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Heading into the 2024 legislative session, staff and school board members at Centennial Schools are sharing some key priorities with area legislators. On a yearly basis, Centennial staff and school board members meet with area legislators over breakfast to share their needs; in turn, senators and representatives share how the district can help them in reaching some of their goals. Rep. Elliott Engen (R, District 36A), Sen. Heather Gustafson (DFL, District 36) and Sen. Michael Kreun (R, District 32) were all in attendance, and are looking forward to the next legislative session. Rep. Matt Norris (DFL, District 32B) was unable to attend the event, as he was traveling. “It’s an opportunity for us to ask questions, for you to ask questions, to share perspectives,” said Centennial Superintendent Jeff Holmberg. For 2024, the district has three priorities it would like legislators to focus on as well as some lingering items from the last legislative session. As it does every year, the district would like to see a change to funding formulas to provide fair equalization, making school levies, operating referendum, local optional revenue and debt service programs more affordable. Patrick Chaffey, the district’s executive director

of business, explained that due to historic inflation levels, the general education formula allowance is behind by 18.6%, and local optional revenue is behind by 25.1%. He said more needs to be done; as it sits right now, Centennial taxpayers pay 100% of the operating referendum, 96% of local optional revenue and 100% of debt service. “Because we don’t have a lot of commercial industry,” Chaffey said, “our resident taxpayers bear the brunt of all of our levies, which makes it more difficult for us to pass those and get the same money that other districts get.” When comparing annual taxpayers costs for their school districts operating levies, property wealth levels have a significant impact on the cost for the individual taxpayer. In 2023, a School for Equity in Education (SEE) report shows a home valued at $250,000 cost for their $1,683/pupil annual operating levies was $683. Forest Lake cost for its annual operating levies of $1,711/pupil was $404 and Anoka Hennepin cost for its annual operating levies of $1,823/pupil was $655. (See graph for more information.) The district, in conjunction with SEE, drafted a bill which requested $1.4 million. If that happened, that would mean Centennial’s levy would be reduced by 4.3%, or $1.2 million. “… if we did have another ask down the road, there is more capacity for that,” Chaffey said.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING www.presspubs.com

ONGOING EVENTS

POLAR PLUNGE

When: Noon Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Avenue Details: The White Bear Lake Plunge has raised over $3M for Special Olympics Minnesota in its 22year history. Sign up as an individual or team. Contact: plungemn.org

CRIBBAGE

When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22; the 4th Monday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N., Hugo Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-429-4413

SNOW DAY AT WARGO NATURE CENTER

CURRENT EVENTS

LUNCH AND TABLE GAMES

When: noon Wednesday, Jan. 24 Where: Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights Details: Bring a bag lunch and play table games with friends. Coffee provided. Contact: 651-204-6000 or cityvadnaisheights.com/ seniors

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Gateway State Trail Candlelight Walk

KENWOOD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

When: 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, 8000 75th St. N., Mahtomedi Details: Orchestral instruments and musicians recreate the story of Peter, his animal friends, and the cunning wolf in a performance for all ages. See ticket information online. Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

When: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26 Where: Gateway State Trail at Stillwater Road/ Wildwood Elementary School Details: Two-mile walk on a trail lit with hundreds of luminaries. Bonfires, hot beverages and marshmallows for roasting. Leashed dogs welcome. Contact: 651-231-6968 or Linda.Radimecky@ state.mn.us

SKATE WITH BEARS

When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28 Where: Hippodrome, 4855 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Free open ice skating for all ages. BYO skates; no hockey sticks. Contact: whitebear.ce.eleyo.com

‘WHITE OUT’ EXHIBITION OPENING

When: 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25 Where: Century College West Campus W-1170 and Caentury Art Gallery Details: Learn about the importance of art coursework and programming in the community college-and community-setting and view the current exhibition in the gallery. Free and lunch provided. Registration required. Contact: century.edu/giving/foundation-events

BEAR LEGACY BREAKFAST

When: 8-9 a.m. Friday, Jan. 26 Where: WBLAHS North Campus, Student Union 5045 Division Ave.

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When: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long. Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Heidi Schreck’s Tony Award-winning play imagines how it will shape the next generation of Americans, and addresses themes such as women’s rights, immigration, domestic abuse, and U.S. history. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

MUSIC ST. CROIX WINTER WARMER CONCERT

When: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26 and Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: Marine on St. Croix Village Hall, 121 Judd St. Details: Celebrate the stillness of a winter’s night with a chamber music repertoire performed by Music St. Croix. Free. Contact: 651-430-9198 or musicstcroix.com

WINTER ICE CREAM SOCIAL

When: Noon-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: Lowell Park, Stillwater Details: Old-fashioned ice cream social hosted by the Washington County Historical Society. Free ice cream, root beer floats and coffee; nominal charge for chili. Contact: 651-439-2298 or wchsmn.org

Having a community event in the future? Contact us today to submit your event to

What’s Happening. Call 651-407-1200 or email calendar@presspubs.com

Church Directory Find the church that fits your needs

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‘WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME’

Celebrate Mass with us!

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

Join Us for Mass

Mass Times: Saturday at 5:00 pm Sunday at 8:30 am and 10:00 am

761757

CENTURY COLLEGE LUNCH & LEARN

Details: White Bear Lake Education Foundation fundraiser will be held in lieu of the annual gala. Guest speakers and tours. Free, but registration required. Contact: 651-407-7696 or wblaef.org

171 Elm Street • Lino Lakes, MN • 651-784-3015

TOGETHER PLACE CHURCH …

We welcome you to worship with us Virtually and in Person

Family Worship

Sunday 9:30 am Fellowship & refreshments following the service

“Because we’re in this together.”

Sunday 10:00 AM Call 763-784-1607 for Together Times

3860 Flowerfield Rd, Circle Pines togetherplacechurch.org facebook.com/togetherplacechurch

761679

When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24 Where: Shoreview Library, 4560 Victoria St. N. Details: Gallery 96 hosts opening of its 2023 winter art exhibition, with more than 30 area artists showcasing paintings, pottery, photography, and mixed mediums of their interpretations of the winter theme. Refreshments provided. Exhibit runs through March 2. Free and open to the public. Contact: gallery 96.org

7330 Lake Drive | 651-784-7667 admin@linolakescommunitychurch.com & directions (1 mile south of Target on Lake Dr)

761677

When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23 Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church (Door G), 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview Details: “Threads of Time” Miniatures Trunk Show with Sharyn Resvick. Contact: LakeshoreQuiltGuild@gmail.com

When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Free, family-friendly event includes indoor and outdoor activities such as a live animal show, crafts, snowshoeing, ice fishing, kick-sledding and hot cocoa and treats. Contact: anokacountyparks.com

762801

LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD MEETING

QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS

Service times are subject to change. Contact your local church or check church web sites for service time and online service information.

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JANUARY 23, 2024

OPINION

4 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS

www.presspubs.com

JANUARY 23, 2024

The Election Year

t’s no surprise to anyone that we’re in the election year. Campaigning is already underway. Caucuses have been held in Iowa in stormy conditions, from the weather and the candidates. Some issues that are standing out in people’s minds across our country include thousands of illegal immigrants who have been crossing the border and being bused to various cities in the nation. We have an economy that’s come through strong inflation and signs of slowing are reported, but I don’t see much about prices being rolled back. Citizens are more and more concerned about the growing rate of crime. About the We also have a growing debt. It seems like both parties know how to spend. Town With interest rates up for government Gene Johnson as well as for consumers, we are still in a tight squeeze with business and consumer interest debt. For small businesses in and around our communities, wages have been pushed up, which in turn is reflected in increased prices. Probably the best news is the yield on treasuries, CDs and municipal bonds. If you have a low interest rate on your mortgage, don’t sell or move. Another reason I know it’s an election year is I’m getting a lot of mailings from candidates, organizations and political parties. There are also a lot of surveys arriving and every one of them asks for money. It seems to me sometimes you need to send money or they won’t count your survey, but I don’t know that for a fact. It just feels that way. Keep your eyes open and don’t watch the same TV station all the time. If you don’t get news sources on the internet with opposing views, you will continue to receive the same political slant on all the information you receive online. That’s called the technology of algorithms. Mille Lacs Lake, love and death On Jan. 12, Richard Gadbois from Isle, Minnesota was found dead in Mille Lacs Lake. I recognized his name. He grew up on Otter Lake Road in White Bear. I lived just north of there and was seven years older. I knew some of Dickie’s older brothers and had the privilege of having him take a group of our management team fishing on Mille Lacs Lake. Dickie became a legend in and around Mille Lacs Lake and Isle and Bruno, Minnesota. He either worked or owned a resort and every one of his customers was a friend. He had an infectious joy of fishing and would help in whatever way he could to make the trip successful and happy. The community called him an amazing man who lived an amazing life. He will be remembered for his humor, willingness to lend a hand, and his love for the lake and the people. He is survived by his wife Marge, son Dennis, and several siblings. Funeral services will be Jan. 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Hinckley, Minnesota Community Center. Success quotes Good habits can be developed through repetition. By incorporating behaviors, tasks, and attitude to the regular routines, they usually become a habit, thus becoming natural and virtually effortless. Kellie Sullivan, author Success leads to success. But here’s something that may surprise you. The size of the success doesn’t seem to matter very much. When you feel successful at something, even if it’s tiny, your confidence grows quickly, and your motivation increases to do that habit again. BJ Fogg, behavior scientist If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Colin Powell Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

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Anoka County Projects

iking/Walking Trails: For those that enjoy using the paved trails through the Rice Creek Regional Park in Lino Lakes and the surrounding area, I have great news for you. These trails were paved about 25 years ago and over the last few years they have been getting kind of bumpy. As Chair of our Parks Committee, I am pleased to tell you that “ALL” of these trails will be resurfaced this summer. Centerville Lake: Alum for Movers & treatments lakes that have algae issues Shakers will reduce algae on the Jeff Reinert lake for as long as 25 years. The last Alum treatment on Centerville Lake was in 1998. About two years ago I met with the lake association members and discussed how to pay for the $1M treatment. Working with our County Park staff and the Rice Creek Watershed District, we apply for and receive a grant from the State for just shy of $1M. This will pay for 90% of the treatment. The other 10% matching cost will be shared by Anoka County and the cities of Centerville and Lino Lakes. The

treatment begins in the spring, and results will be noticed immediately. The Missing Link: A 1.4mile segment of trail the traverses from Hodgeson Rd, around Baldwin Lake, and ends by Golden Lake Elementary School, is the “missing link” in our trail system. When complete someone can travel from Duluth to the Gulf of Mexico. We have been working to build this trail for 30 years. The issue is that this area is very wet making it difficult and expensive to build, and it is also very rich in archaeological content. We completed an archaeological survey and have a final design, now we just need the dollars to build it. The Governor released a $1B infrastructure plan and this project “as of now” is funded within the plan. We need $6.7M to complete this project. Cross your fingers, we may just get it done this time. Another roundabout: Due to increasing development on Main St, the County is going to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Main St and Sunset Ave. I’m not always a fan of roundabouts but for this location, it is better than a signalized intersection. It will keep traffic moving and create a much safer situation for those people who need to take a left onto Main St from Sunset Ave. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring of 2024. Legislation: As Chair of IG, I

will be heading up Anoka County’s legislative priorities at the State and Federal levels again this year. There were several pieces of legislation passed last year that need to be fixed. One of them is GGE/VMT (Greenhouse Gas Emissions/Vehicle Miles Traveled). The State came up with a new formula for transportation projects that use GGE/VMT to calculate whether you can build the road. The problem is that using this calculation makes it almost impossible to increase the size of a road. Anoka County, being the 2nd fastest growing County in the State, will continue to have problems until we can get the current formula changed. Voter integrity: There is rising concern about voter integrity and our election process, and Counties are charged with the implementation of our elections. I support spending effort on validation of our election process. One of the bigger voter integrity concerns is poll pads. Implemented in 2011, these electronic devices are used to check in voters at the polls, replacing the paper printout that had been used for decades. I am working with our elections department to run a side-by-side comparison in a few precincts during our next election to help validate their accuracy. Jeff Reinert is Anoka County Commissioner for District 3.

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QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS

Rice Creek Trail Association in pretty good shape at 40 BY MICHELLE KOCH SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Forty years ago, the Rice Creek Trail Association was founded in Circle Pines. The club maintains (clears brush, trims trees, signs, and grooms) about 70 miles of trails in Anoka and Washington Counties, connecting local riders to the towns of Circle Pines, Centerville, Hugo, Forest Lake, Lino Lakes, Ham Lake, Scandia and others. Last year was amazing! Preparing the trails begins in late summer and runs to the beginning of Movers & up December. It is a lot work. Some years Shakers of there isn’t enough Michelle Koch snow to ride locally, and all of the work feels less rewarding. The winter of 2022 brought plenty of snow and it made for one of the best local riding years most can remember. Many members were able to ride the trails they work on which was welldeserved perk for their hard work. Group rides took place several times a week and provided an opportunity for members to get to know each other better and have some fun. This year, the groomers and riders have been sitting idle. But the club is busy getting ready to host its first vintage snowmobile show on March 2. The opportunity came along to take over the Big Marine Lake Vintage Snowmobile Show and the club voted to seize the chance. As the club president, I attend many

vintage shows with my husband and have been wanting the club to host an event. I wanted something that our members could rally around and be proud of, this seems the perfect opportunity. I was pleased with the members’ enthusiastic support of the idea. The show will take place at the Vets Camp on Big Marine Lake and as it has in years past, will feature an ice carousel if weather permits. It takes a crew of eight to nine to create the carousel. “We’re lucky to have one of our members who is also one of our landowners step up to lead this. I’m excited because I love the novelty this brings to the event.” The Vets Camp is happy to host and the past organizers have been more than helpful, making this new adventure less daunting. Over the last couple of years, the club has gotten a refreshed logo and website, added some more modern communication and payment options, and grown in membership. The club is in pretty good shape at 40. As always, fundraising remains an important part of the club. The club is currently selling raffle calendars. There are a lot of things outside the club’s control. Snowfall for one and poor-mannered riders for another. Like all snowmobile clubs they do their best to educate riders on the importance of staying on the marked trail. Many of Minnesota’s snowmobile trails cross private land, where owners grant permission to the club. That is always in jeopardy when a small percentage of riders abuse the privilege. It can be easy to think no harm can come from riding across an open field. If you ride, you know the attraction. In some cases, there are already crops planted and riding over it pushes the

IF YOU GO:

WHAT: 7th annual Big Marine Lake Vintage Snowmobile Show WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 2 WHERE: Vets Camp, 11300 180th Street N, Marine on St. Croix DETAILS: The show, presented by the Rice Creek Trail Association, will include 10 classes, food and beverages, bonfires, rides and an ice carousel if conditions allow. For more information, visit RiceCreekTrail.com.

CONTRIBUTED

The Rice Creek Trail Association maintains about 70 miles of trails in Anoka and Washington Counties.

frost further down and harms the crop. Riding across sod kills it and sod farmers only get one crop per season. Most people wouldn’t knowingly take money from someone’s livelihood, the club hopes if people know better, they’ll do better. The minutes from club meetings decades earlier, show many of today’s issues aren’t new. Founding members dealt with many of the same challenges.

Lino resident requests more for frontage road BY BROOKE WOHLRABE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

LEXINGTON — A Lino Lakes resident is hoping the Lexington City Council will consider doing more to the frontage road of Lake Drive. North Road, which is a county road and feeds into Lake Drive, is already slated to have work done sometime this year or in 2025. Lakeview Drive resident Sam Bennett said that while some sidewalk improvements will be included in the work, he asked whether a bike lane could be added. Later during his comments, Bennett said he felt there were very little recreation opportunities in the community. He also suggested a number of other ideas to spruce up the town of Lexington and its downtown area, which included adding restaurants.

Council Member Diane Harris agreed that if the road looked less like a highway through the town, it would be more attractive, but noted that it’s a county road, which presented a challenge. The resident questioned why they’re widening the road. City Administrator Bill Petracek said that as he understands it, the county wants to move traffic faster, rather than slow it down. “For every person that wants to create a hometown feel, there’s 20 people that want to move traffic along quicker so they can get to the bus stop quicker and downtown Minneapolis quicker,” Petracek said. Harris said she appreciated the resident coming in, but unfortunately, it’s a county road and therefore the council is limited in what it can do. Ultimately the council suggested Bennett take his concern to the Anoka County Commissioners. They also said he could look for the next open seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Like any club, it is the relationships built that keep people engaged and involved. The Rice Creek Trail Association prides itself on being a family-friendly club that welcomes riders of all abilities. Michelle Koch is the president of the Rice Creek Trail Association.

LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS • City Adminsitrator Bill Petracek wants to clarify that some incorrect information was shared with the council at the last meeting regarding garage doors for the public works facility. At the Jan. 4 meeting, the council approved a bid in the amount of $23,073 to replace the doors, however Petracek said really only the motors for the doors need to be

replaced. “I don’t want you guys to wonder when the doors are going to be replaced when really we’re just replacing the motors,” Petracek said. • Karner Blue Education Center will use Memorial Park May 16 for its annual track and field day. Brooke Wohlrabe

STUDENT NEWS Dakota State University: Tyler Roman of Circle Pines. Marquette University: Britta Arends of Lino Lakes; Annika Beuning of Circle Pines. Minnesota State UniversityMorehead: Cheyenna Tourville of Circle Pines; Alexia Grabau, Jake Pletsch, and Abbi Williams, all of Lino Lakes. North Dakota State College of Science: Joseph Martin of Circle Pines. North Dakota State University: Alyssa Abernathy, Jameson Berg, Surra Birru, Brooke Cina, Mikayla Engebritson, Kevin Hanson, Emily

Honsa, Tyler Larson, Tam Le, Rachel Lilly, Olivia Lovick, Samuel Lyke, and Abigail Zimmerman, all of Circle Pines; Luke Brennhofer, Carah Fitzgerald, Kennedy Grant, and Tyler Kratt, all of Lino Lakes. Quinnipiac University Adam Woodcock of Lino Lakes. Saint John’s University: Zach Frank of Lino Lakes was named to the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District football team. St. Norbert College: Zachary Embacher of Circle Pines.

South Dakota State University: Maximus Theis of Circle Pines. University of Mary: Emma Dowell of Circle Pines; Emma Laman of Lino Lakes. University of WisconsinMadison: Grace Ackerman, Anna Barrett, Ali Omar, Kate Paulson, Sara Stapleton, all of Circle Pines; Kaitlyn Davis, Natascha Larson, Tevis Linser, Alec Rautenberg, Julia Schultz, Elisabeth Slaga, and Derrick Thomas, all of Lino Lakes. University of WisconsinStevens Point: Jadyn Clarner and Anthony Osland, both of Lino Lakes.

University of WisconsinStout: Olivia Blossom, Kullan Daikawa, Ryan Granquist, Rachel Johnson, Hannah Nordlund, Abigail Peterson, Nate Rewald, and Jack Roeber, all of Circle Pines. The following students recently graduated from a college or university: Iowa State University: Frank Matti of Lino Lakes, Bachelor of Science, aerospace engineering. Minnesota State UniversityMankato: Tanner Adams of Lino Lakes, Bachelor of Science, aviation; Noah

Hailie of Lino Lakes, Bachelor of Science, computer information technology, cum laude; Logan Jorgensen of Lino Lakes, Bachelor of Science, construction management; Allison Perzichilli of Lino Lakes, Bachelor of Science, biology; Beda Sapkota of Lino Lakes, Bachelor of Science, computer engineering. University of Iowa: Stephanie Peterson of Lino Lakes, Doctor of Philosophy, immunology.

6 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS

JANUARY 23, 2024

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Trail Funding: Anoka County requests $6.76 million for missing trail link FROM PAGE 1

Supporters of the project say it not only would provide many benefits to Anoka County trail users, but trail users statewide. “Just this small section of trail in Anoka County serves just shy of 300,000 users a year,” Perry explained. “The missing link project will ultimately better connect Minnesotans to fresh air, clean water and the great outdoors.” He added that the construction of the missing link would provide critical connections to Lake Itasca, Duluth, the Twin Cities and the Gulf of Mexico. Other benefits include: • A boost to economic revitalization and tourism • Enhancement to public health, wellness and quality of life • Multimodal transportation opportunities • Increased environmental education and multiple outdoor recreation experiences. “Completing the missing link of a regional trail is important for people all across the north metro area. We have heard over and over again how much people love trails, whether for walking or biking,” Circle Pines Mayor Dave

Bartholomay said. “Finishing the investment in the regional trail is about giving people a great opportunity to get out and exercise and to see nature. The missing part of the trail goes right through some of the most beautiful parts of Circle Pines and people would love to use the trail.” Perhaps the reason the project has taken so long to gain traction is the hefty price tag, which now sits at $6.75 million. Anoka County recently pleaded its case to the Legislature when the Senate Capital Investment Committee visited Circle Pines as part of its bonding tour. Since August, the committee has heard about 360 projects throughout the state. Committee Chair Senator Sandy Pappas (DFL-St. Paul) said it looks like there is “a lot of support” for the project, but wanted to know more about what other entities could chip in. “As you know, we have limited dollars, and we have to spread it across the state. So, are the county and the city able to put in any money for this project? Usually, we like to get a local match.” Perry explained that Anoka County doesn’t currently have any funding allocated to the project, but that it has invested significant

dollars into other segments of the trail. “I would comfortably say we’ve invested, between federal, state, and local dollars, several million dollars to building the trail out,” he said. “Most recent investments were further upstream than the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve with some federal trail dollars.” It should be noted that back in fiscal year ’ 21, the project received $500,000 for design and engineering. In fiscal year ’23, the project received an additional $200,000 for design and engineering. The city of Circle Pines has also indicated its willingness for a local match. “We stand ready to help out in whatever way we can to make this happens, as it will also serve our residents,” Bartholomay said. “Circle Pines area residents want this trail to be completed and the state, county and city working together is the best way to make this trail complete.” Perry added, “The project is now ready to go. It is shovel-ready, the design is complete; we just need some money for construction.” Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs. com.

CONTRIBUTED

The Rice Creek North Regional Trail follows Rice Creek through the southeast quadrant of Anoka County. It provides a connection between Anoka and Ramsey counties and connects the cities of Blaine, Circle Pines and Lino Lakes. The gap in the trail system is between Golden Lake Elementary School and Baldwin Park in Circle Pines.

Polar Plunge: ‘Bucket list’ item for many BY ERIK SUCHY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

As Minnesota winter rears its frigid head around the corner, so do those who are no less deterred for some good old lake-jumping fun in the form of the Polar Plunge. “We always joke in the office we’re the only group that hopes for colder weather,” laughs Emma Fiedler. “Jumping into a frozen lake is such a unique experience because it’s a bucket list item for so many.” Before becoming the head organizer of the White Bear Polar Plunge, for which she is in her third season, Fiedler worked for two years as an event manager with Special Olympics Minnesota. The Plunge is one of the organization’s biggest fundraisers. It helps to

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provide year-round training, assistance and equipment to intellectually disabled athletes across the state. As such, Fiedler’s aim to see the Plunge stay as a favored event for Minnesotans comes not only from its fundraising but also from witnessing a community of both new and seasoned plungers grow. “We love to see teams that start small grow year after year,” she says. “Many start at one or two people in the first year and steadily grow into almost 14 (plunges) because they just love participating!” Although submerging themselves in freezing water for the first time may seem daunting for beginners, Fiedler feels confident about the triumph they would gain after completion. “At first glance, it can be a bit daunting,” she admits. “But it’s also a rejuvenating experience with a huge adrenaline rush. Once you jump in, you kind of want to go again!” But it isn’t just White Bear Lake that is anticipating the Plunge’s wintry charm. Elsewhere in Anoka County, Orin Christensen’s excitement for its arrival has stayed unshaken. “What makes this event unique is it brings everyone from all walks of life to raise money for a great cause,” he says. “As far as a sense of anticipation, many people look forward to this every year, and most of them are return plungers.” Since 2018, Christensen has served as the liaison between the Blaine Police Department and the Law Enforcement Torch Run, a public awareness vehicle and grass-roots fundraiser for Special Olympics Minnesota. The Polar Plunge is one of the most predominant events members of the Torch Run participate in. This year will be the first for Anoka County to host the Plunge in Blaine; previously, it was held at Crooked Lake in Coon Rapids.

Like Fiedler, Christensen’s enthusiasm in enticing beginners to take part is cautious but optimistic. “It’s not easy talking someone into jumping into a frozen lake,” he says. “The best approach is making it clear the Plunge is helping so many athletes, and being part of an effort to change this many people’s lives is a good thing. Our teams have grown yearly, and someone has never said they regretted doing the Plunge.” When pressed on whether the somewhat warmerthan-normal weather fluctuations would hurt the Plunge’s set-up, Christensen accepted all necessary changes with open arms. “Rather than jumping into a hole in the ice, we would just run in from the shoreline until we are under, then run back out!” he says. “Either way, the water is still just above freezing, and the task is as challenging and rewarding as the other way around.” Fiedler, too, stated that a similar system would be in place for White Bear if something were to happen: “We would cut the ice a little bit away from the beach and have everybody quickly run in, then out. Yes, it would look slightly different, but it would still be fun for everyone involved.” The White Bear Lake Plunge will take place Jan. 27 at County Park near Memorial Beach, while the Anoka Plunge is scheduled for Feb. 24 at Lakeside Commons Park in Blaine. More information on registration and how to donate can be found online at www.plungemn. org. Erik Suchy is a contributing writer with Press Publications. He can be reached by emailing news@ presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1200.

IF YOU GO: White Bear Lake

What: White Bear Lake Polar Plunge When: Noon Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Avenue Details: The Polar Plunge is a series of events where people go to the extreme to raise money for the Special Olympics. To register, visit www.plungemn.org.

IF YOU GO: Anoka County

What: Anoka County Polar Plunge When: Noon Saturday, Feb. 24 Where: Lakeside Commons Park, 3020 Lake Parkway, Blaine Details: The Polar Plunge is a series of events where people go to the extreme to raise money for the Special Olympics. To register, visit www.plungemn.org.

CONTRIBUTED

The Anoka County Polar Plunge will be at a new location this year — Lakeside Commons Park in Blaine.

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8 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS

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JANUARY 23, 2024

POLICE REPORTS Anoka County Jail on an outstanding warrant from another agency. • An officer took a report of an animal complaint in the 6900 block of Glenview Lane Jan. 11. Residents were advised of city ordinances and the incident was documented. • An officer received a report regarding possible neglect at an assisted living facility in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The investigation is ongoing. • An officer responded to a report of a theft in the 600 block of Apollo Drive Jan. 12. A witness identified an involved vehicle that had left the area. The investigation is ongoing. • Officers responded to a report of a woman with a firearm at a service station in the 7500 block of Lake Drive Jan. 13. The female was taken into custody and booked into Anoka County Jail for possessing a pistol without a permit. • Officers responded to an alarm at a closed elementary school in the 400 block of Elm Street Jan. 13. It is believed the alarm was caused by a power outage; there were no problems found. • Officers responded to a report of suspicious noise in the 1100 block of South Trappers Crossing Jan. 14. The officer checked the area and found footprints, but the individuals were no longer in the area. It was determined no crime was committed.

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents: • An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 8000 block of I-35E Jan. 9. The male driver was arrested for driving after cancellation inimical to public safety, and booked into jail. • An officer responded to a delayed theft report at a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive Jan. 9. The investigation is ongoing. • An officer responded to a theft report in the 6800 block of Otter Lake Road Jan. 9. The complainant reported that a window of a vehicle was smashed and a purse was taken. The unknown suspect used credit cards to purchase items. The investigation is ongoing. • An officer responded to a theft from a vehicle in the 7700 block of Main Street Jan. 9. The victim reported their credit card was stolen and used at a business. The investigation is ongoing. • An officer was dispatched to a motor vehicle property damage accident on I-35W near Lake Drive Jan. 11. The officer documented the incident and the parties involved were provided with a case number. • An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 2100 block of Main Street Jan. 11. The adult male driver was arrested and booked into the

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

CONTRIBUTED

CLPD Chief James Mork pins the badge on new officer, Seamus Linderholm.

CLPD swears in new officer The Centennial Lakes Police Department’s newest officer is Seamus Linderholm. He formerly worked for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, where he worked as a correctional officer in the jail division.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents: • Officers responded to the 50 block of Circle Drive in Circle Pines Jan. 3 on a report of damage to a motor vehicle. • An officer observed a male with multiple arrest

warrants in a vehicle near South Pine Drive and Lake Drive in Circle Pines Jan. 3. The officer conducted a traffic stop and the male was arrested and taken into custody for the outstanding warrants. • Officers were dispatched to a harassment report in the 200 block of Heritage Lane in Circle Pines Jan. 3. • Officers received a phone call from someone on Pine Drive who called regarding a theft Jan. 3. • A caller from Central Street in Circle Pines called to report fraud Jan. 4. • Police assisted with a civil dispute in the 1600 block of Hunters Ridge Lane in Centerville in Jan. 4. • A theft was reported in the 1900 block of Main Street in Centerville Jan. 5. • Officers were dispatched to a report of theft from motor vehicle in the 2000 block of Commerce Drive in Centerville Jan. 6. There are no known suspects at this time. • Police received a phone call from someone on Central Street in Circle Pines regarding questions about public health Jan. 7. • An officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 8900 block of Syndicate Avenue in Lexington Jan. 7. The driver was subsequently arrested for third-degree DWI. • Police responded to a physical domestic in Centerville Jan. 8. • An officer observed a vehicle with expired

registration in the 7300 block of Main Street in Centerville Jan. 8. The vehicle was stopped; the driver’s license was found to be revoked and the vehicle was uninsured. The vehicle was towed from the scene and a citation was issued. • A motorist was arrested for DWI near Lexington Avenue and West Road in Circle Pines Jan. 9. • Officers responded to the 100 block of Civic Heights Drive in Circle Pines Jan. 9 regarding terroristic threats. Officers were unable to locate a suspect. • An officer was dispatched to the 9100 block of Jackson Avenue in Lexington Jan. 12 on a complaint that dogs were left out in the cold. The officer contacted the owner, who brought the dogs inside. • An officer observed a nocontact order violation on East Road in Circle Pines Jan. 12. The officer initiated a traffic stop and the offender was arrested. • Officers were dispatched to South Pine Drive in Circle Pines Jan. 13 for a property damage accident. Officers took information for a report and facilitated the exchange of information between the drivers. • Officers responded to a gas drive-off in the 1800 block of Main Street in Centerville Jan. 15.

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS

• Officers responded to an unknown issue at a residence in Lino Lakes Jan. 14. It was found to be a report of a domestic assault, and an uncooperative male was arrested. He was transported to the Anoka County Jail and booked for several offenses. • Officers and the fire department responded to a house for a structure fire in the 6500 block of Gaage Lane Jan. 14. The fire was put out, and there were no injuries. • Officers responded to a report of a Lyft driver who fell asleep with passengers in the vehicle near Main Street and Lake Drive Jan. 15. The driver admitted to being tired but stated he was almost home. The passengers were given courtesy rides to work by an officer. • An officer responded to check an area for a vehicle that had been reported as stolen from another jurisdiction and was said to have been tracked to the 1100 block of Birch Street Jan. 15. The officer checked the area, but the vehicle was not located.

CONTRIBUTED

The Centerville City Council started off the new year by officially welcoming a new junior council member to City Hall by administering the oath of office to Avery Sauber.

The Centerville City Council started off the new year by officially welcoming a new junior council member to City Hall by administering the oath of office to Avery Sauber. • After a discussion of moderate duration, council voted 3-2 (council members Raye Taylor and Terry Sweeney opposed) to communicate to North Metro Television (NMTV) that the city is not interested in discussions with other local access TV networks about consolidation. • For several years, the city has used a private consultant to perform the work of city assessor. The use of the private consultant has proven cost-effective when compared to county staff rates, and services have been excellent, city staff reports. The current contract with Mary Wells, SAMA, and Christopher Larson, AMA, will expire in February, and city staff recommended extending the contract for another three years. The

new contract will contain cost increases of less than 2%, bringing this year’s cost up to an estimated $19,879.80 annually. Payment will be drawn from the general fund. • Now is the time of year for license renewals. Council approved a massage establishment license for Connor James Salon (Christine Folsom) after the city received all appropriate fees and documents, along with a report of a successful Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) background check. Council also approved a massage therapist license for Jodi Lynn Cruz (Day) following a discussion about her CLPD background check. • The decorative street lights in the Royal Meadows development are unique, both in style and ownership. Other neighborhood streetlights are owned by their respective elective companies (either Xcel or Connexus) and rented out to the city. However, the city owns the Royal Meadows streetlight infrastructure and is, therefore, responsible for its repair. One of the Royal Meadows streetlights has failed, and the city will contract with Aid Electric to replace four streetlights in Royal Meadows to the tune of $4,150, using money from the general fund. When the entire lighting system in Royal Meadows fails completely at the end of its natural lifespan, the city will then give up ownership and rent out the lights to an electrical provider in the same manner as it does with all the other neighborhood streetlights around town. • Council directed city staff to abide by all forms of required communication to schedule an additional public meeting related to the development of the

LaLonde property on 1687 Westview Street, and alert the public about it. A 55-unit, two-story senior complex is proposed for that 2.79-acre property. Tax increment financing (TIF) is being considered for this high-end property, and an open house presentation would allow the public and city officials to learn about TIF as well as plans for the property, City Administrator Mark Statz said. • Each year, as part of the insurance contract renewal process, the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) asks city councils to decide if they want to waive the Minnesota state statutory liability limits. Those limits are $500,000 for an individual claimant and $1.5 million for all claimants for a single incident. If liability limits are waived, the liability limit goes up to $2 million per claimant and per incident. Staff proposed that council elect to not waive the liability limits, following the same practice as in the past. • As part of his city administrator update, Statz welcomed new Planning and Zoning Commissioner Dawn Kalina and noted that two more openings remain on the commission. One vacant seat remains on the Parks Commission. • Council adjourned to closed executive session to evaluate the performance evaluation and salary negotiation for the city administrator. The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, at City Hall, 1880 Main St. Loretta Harding

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Controller/Bookkeeper Summary of Responsibilities: Our growing construction company is looking for a Controller/ Bookkeeper to join our team. Controller should be able to successfully complete their tasks and are responsible for the financial and accounting functions of Douglas-Kerr Underground, LLC. The ideal candidate has excellent communication and multi-tasking skills with an accounting/ financial background. Must have positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to team. Preferred skills and Qualifications: - 5 years experience as an accounting or finance manager. - Proven payroll experience, with focus on streamlining accounting processes. -Working knowledge of finance law and regulatory standards (GAAP) -Strong history of financial project management. -Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and specialized accounting software. -Experience in construction industry is a plus. -Willing to grow and work with the right candidate.

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Press Publications in White Bear Lake is seeking a staff writer to join its award-winning team. As a staff writer-reporter you will be responsible for coordinating editorial content and layout for our newspapers, website and social media pages. In addition to writing stories, the job will require attending meetings, taking photographs, assisting with the layout process, coordinating, writing occasional editorial columns and maintaining a positive relationship with the community at large. We are looking for a candidate who is an efficient writer, passionate about local community news and great at time managment. Candidates should have a degree in journalism (or a related field) and have relevant experience. To apply, please send resume, cover letter and three writing samples to quadnews@presspubs.com.

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ACCOUNTANT Established newspaper groups in East Central Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin seeking an Accountant for their central accounting department located in Cambridge, MN. Qualified individual will have a 4 year accounting degree, have strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel. Job responsibilties would include monthly financial statements, management reports, A/P, A/R, cash management, quarterly P/R and sales tax returns, EOY reporting, and helping with yearend budgeting and year-end working papers. Reports to CFO. Room for advancement. Benefits: 401(k), Dental insurance, Disability insurance, Health insurance, Life insurance, Paid time off, Vision insurance. Please send resume to: dharmon@countystar.com

Are you looking for something to keep your child(ren) busy? How about something that gives them cash? Talk to them about delivering newspapers! ROUTES AVAILABLE FOR WHITE BEAR PRESS: Rte 114 – S of Cnty Rd F – E of Bellaire Rte 122 – S of Cnty Rd F – E of McKnight Rte 123 – S of Cnty Rd F to W of McKnight Rte 124 – N of Birch to E of Hazel Rte 125 – N of Cedar to W of McKnight Rte 232 – N of 96 to W of 2nd Ave Rte 235 – S of 4th St – E of Otter Lake Rd Rte 262 – Lake Ave – E of Hwy 61 Rte 284 – S of Otter Lake – W of Otter Lake Rd Rte 294 – N of 96 – E of Portland Main Street Business District – downtown White Bear Lake Other Routes available, call our Circulation Dept. at 651-407-1246.

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1. Lino Lakes family picks up pieces after fire. Quad Community Press > News 2. Big Wood Brewery opens soon in Vadnais Heights. White Bear Press > News 3. Dream coming true for late artistic director. Quad White Bear Press > News 4. Lino Lakes considers sports dome for north metro. Quad Community Press > News 5. Lino Lakes baker needs your votes. The Citizen > News See Press Publications’ website www.presspubs.com for stories from the White Bear Press, The Citizen, Vadnais Heights Press, Shoreview Press, Quad Community Press, The Lowdown-Forest Lake Area and The Lowdown-St. Croix Valley Area.

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Cougar swimmers 4-1 in duals, place 3rd in section BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

The Centennial swimmers defeated Coon Rapids 94-87 at home Thursday evening, improving to 4-1 in dual meets. The Cougars placed third in their section true-team meet on Jan. 13. Winners against Coon Rapids were Caleb Cregan, 200 freestyle, 2:00.12; Manny Poscher, 50 freestyle, 23.84; Talen Greeson-Stormoen, 500 free, 5:52.43; Benno Schuhbauer, backstroke, 1:02.17; and Matthew Kufner, breaststroke, 1:12.38. The Cougars won two relays, the 200 free with Poscher, Cregan, Greeson-Stormoen and Joe Murray in 1:35.14, and the 400 free with Poscher, Murray, Schuhbauer and Nguyen in 3:34.67. Placing second were Murray second, 200 free; Blake Thorson, diving; Cregan, butterfly; Nguyen, 100 free; and Jaedyn Lynch-Rygh, backstroke. “Really good meet put together by the boys tonight,” coach Pete Crawford said, “with many seasonal best

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Manny Poscher caught his breath after winning the 50 free against Coon Rapids.

times. Two of our young divers scored over 150 for the first time.” In the Section 7AA true-team at Coon Rapids, the Cougars scored about a hundred more points than last year but repeated a third-place finish among eight teams behind Duluth and Andover. Murray had the team’s lone first, in the 50 free in 23.48. Also in the top six were Cregan, second, backstroke, and fourth, individual medley; Poscher, fourth, 100 free, and fifth, 50 free; Nguyen, fourth, breaststroke, and sixth, IM; Schuhbauer, fifth, 200 free; and Alex Larkin sixth in butterfly. In relays, the medley team placed second with Cregan,

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Manny Poscher caught his breath after winning the 50 free against Coon Rapids.

Schuhbauer, Tyler Celotta and Murray, and the 400 free team took third with Cregan, Schuhbauer, GreesonStormoen and Nguyen.

Strong home meet for Centennial/SLP alpiners BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

The Centennial/Spring Lake Park boys placed first in a Northwest Suburban Conference home meet while the girls earned their fourth straight second-place at Wild Mountain on Thursday. “What a fantastic and memorable evening, on our home hill, on Senior Night,” coach Derrick Taylor

KATIE JOHNSON | CONTRIBUTED

Bruce Johnson hurtled down the slopes at Wild Mountain.

reflected. Taylor thanked parents, volunteers and the Booster Club for showing up on a cold evening. “We could really feel the support and it fires up our racers.” The near-zero conditions firmed up the snow, making it ideal for racing — finally — he noted. The courses held up well with some low lines getting slicker toward the end. Bruce Johnson placed fourth to lead the CSLP boys to their first win. Their counting top seven included Tyler McDew in 11th place, Caleb Nelson 16th, Danny Schooley 19th, Devon Cunningham 26th, Luke Peterson was 38th, and Seth Semmler 50th. Leading the girls was eighth-grader Hailey Peterson in sixth place, her first top ten finish. Also in the top seven were Katie Toensing 13th, Hadley Goochey 22nd, Ella Nelson 24th, Annie Trettel 26th, Elle Golden 27th, and Gwen Halverson 33rd. The top three boys teams were CSLP, Blaine and Chisago Lakes. The top three girls teams were Blaine, CSLP and Chisago Lakes. Individual winners were Brecker Swanson of Robbinsdale/Armstrong for the boys and Sydney Kalina of Blaine for the girls. This was the fourth of five NWSC meets.

SPORTS BRIEFS

BOYS HOCKEY Centennial tripped No. 6 ranked Rogers 5-4 on Saturday in Rogers, after defeating Robbinsdale Armstrong/Cooper 6-4 at home Tuesday, improving to 10-4-1. Mason Wanka of Rogers (11-5-4) opened the scoring but the Cougars got the next four goals, by Heath Nelson (shorthanded), Jake Robinson, Nelson again and Alex Clampitt. After Matthew Hauser and Nick Johnston pulled Rogers with 4-3, Clampitt found the net again for a two-goal lead. Hauser closed the scoring for Rogers. Cougar goalie Easton Cody stopped 30 of 34 shots. Against A/C (7-9), the Cougars trailed 4-3 two Nelson goals regained the lead and Joey Perzchilli closed it out. They had an early 3-1 edge on power play goals by Gavin Cunningham, Kellen Krumwiede and Nelson. Harper Searles made two assists. Tanner Rausch drilled three goals for A/C. Easton saved 27 of 31 shots.

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Centennial got back to .500 with their fourth straight win, over Spring Lake Park 73-58 Tuesday, then lost to Andover 73-64 Thursday, both on the road. The Cougars are 7-8. Against SLP (6-8), Marisa Frost scored 27 points, Autumn McCall 14, Molly Monson 11 and Emma Thompson eight. Bella Sutch led the Panthers (6-8) with 24 points. Against Andover, Frost sank 29 points, McCall 13 and Monson eight. Piper Engelby led the Huskies (12-2) with 22 points.

BOYS BASKETBALL Centennial is 4-12 after losses last week to Spring Lake Park 93-72 on Tuesday and Andover 69-68 on Thursday, both at home. Against SLP, Luke Gunderman netted 15 points and Ty Burgoon 14 while the Panthers (66) were led by Andrew King and Brock Remme with 22 points each. Against Andover (5-8), the Cougars had a 37-19 halftime lead but the Huskies pulled it out, led by Luke Dehnicke with 17 points and Cameron Begalle with 16. Burgoon netted 15 points, Jackson Driessen 14, Gunderman 13 and Jack D’Agostino 10 for the Cougars.

Kaitlin Groess in goal stopped 38 of 39 shots. Seven players scored against St. Cloud (5-13-1): Annabelle Buccicone, Lillian Renslow, Laager, Sophie Shimabukuro, Noelle Hemr, Mia Sutch and Teagan Kulenkamp. Groess had 17 saves in the team’s eighth shutout. The Cougars are 181-2 overall and 7-1-1 in the NWSC for second behind Andover (7-0-1).

GIRLS WRESTLING Nora Akpan was a tournament champion and Alaina Franco placed third, leading Centennial’s entrants in the Pine Island Girls Classic, which had 30 teams, on Saturday. Akpan, at 130 pounds, had three pins to reach the finals, where she won 9-4 over Sina Guerra-Guardado of Apple Valley. Franco was 3-1 with three pins at 148. Emily Streff was 2-2 (two pins) to place seventh at 155. Zoe Ford was 2-2 (two pins) to place seventh at 190. Amanda Miller was 1-1 plus a forfeit to place third at 142. Lucy Dropps was 2-2 (one pin) and placed 11th at 112 pounds. Peyton Corbin was 2-2 (two pins) and took 10th at 124. Samantha Mulberry was 1-2 at 142, Mya Letourneau 1-2 at 106 and Emily McDonald was 1-3 at 136.

BOYS WRESTLING Centennial took on two of the state’s top teams Thursday evening, losing to No. 2 ranked Mounds View 65-0 and No. 4 Stillwater 44-12 at Mounds View. (Mounds View is 19-0 and has shut out five teams.) Against Stillwater, Logan Fu won 7-6 in overtime at 121, Tyler Cook had a pin at 189 and Marcus Whiting won 4-1 at heavyweight. Centennial is 13-10 overall. Bruce Strand

GIRLS HOCKEY Centennial/Spring Lake Park has a 13-game win streak after dispatching Champlin Park/Coon Rapids 4-1 at home Tuesday and St. Cloud 7-0 there Saturday. Scoring against CPCR (12-6-2) were Grace Laager twice, Madeline Wolter, and Ellie Newpower.

MARCIA LOWEEN| CONTRIBUTED

Tyler Cook had control of a Stillwater opponent on the way to a pin.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Bruce Johnson Brol Scherman Alpine Skiing Centennial Lacrosse

Bruce Johnson, Alpine Ski leader for Centennial/Spring Lake Brol Scherman, junior lacrosse hasabout netted Park, has placedCentennial fourth twice, seventh andstandout, 10th, among 22 goals provided sevenSuburban assists forConference the Cougarsmeets. (4-2) The while 125 skiers,and in four Northwest notchingvarsity 17 ground ballsled (athe change six-year veteran teamoftopossession first place statistic). in the most Scherman was as aevents, sophomore with11th 36 goals recent meet. At all-conference large invitational he placed at Wild and 28 assists. The and recruiting ILMCA said of him: “EndMountain and 20th 23rd inwebsite MLK races at Biwabik. Coach to-end Taylor playmaking machine with striking both on Derrick attributes Johnson’s successconfidence to “strong passion, and off theand field.technical Versatileunderstanding offensive threat strong outside work ethic, of with the sport.” Johnson and crease skills.CSLP Magnetic leader and isshooting on the hill five or sixfinishing days a week or histeam club team. positive influencer.” “Bruce has been a great leader,” Taylor added. “He supports his teammates with racing tips and techniques, and with ski tuning and maintenance.” Johnson plans to ski for UM-Duluth next year.

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JANUARY 23, 2024

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Judge shortage: Election ‘experts’ harder to find

“...they have decided to no longer participate as election judges because they’re concerned for their safety due to the current state of politics nationwide,” Jolleen Chaika Lino Lakes City Clerk Piskura says that going into 2024, Washington County has adequate staffing for the presidential primary but will need more for what is expected to be a “highly engaged” general election in November. “Our priority is to grow our election judge applicants,” she said.

the same precinct at the same time. In addition, relatives of a candidate, and anyone who temporarily or permanently lives in the same house as a candidate, cannot serve in the precinct where the candidate is on the ballot. Candidates cannot serve in a precinct where they are on the ballot. Election judges can choose to volunteer or be paid, and wages vary by city. More experienced election judges, such as head judges, usually earn more than entry-level election judges. Training, which takes about two hours, is required. For more information on election judges, or how to apply, visit www. sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/getinvolved/become-an-election-judge/ . Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

Voting for the March 5 Presidential Nomination Primary will begin in Minnesota on January 19. In the primary, voters will have their choice of three ballots, one for each major party – Republican, Democratic-Farmer-Labor, or Legal Marijuana Now. Voters can only vote in one party’s primary. Eligible voters in Minnesota can cast their ballot starting 46 days before the election. All absentee and mail ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. on election day. Voters can request a ballot to vote from home, find their local election office, find their polling place and view a sample ballot at mnvotes.gov, or call the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State at 1-877-600-VOTE (8683) to ask their voting-related questions.

Who can apply

You must be eligible to vote in Minnesota and able to read, write and speak English. Students 16 and 17 years old can be election judge trainees. There are restrictions on having relatives serve together as election judges. A relative is defined as a spouse, parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, sibling or stepsibling. Relatives cannot serve together in the same precinct at the same time. In addition, relatives of a candidate, and anyone who temporarily or permanently lives in the same house as a candidate, cannot serve in the precinct where the candidate is on the ballot. Candidates cannot serve in a precinct where they are on the ballot.

How to apply To apply, contact a city or county election office online via www.sos. state.mn.us/elections-voting/get-involved/become-an-election-judge/. In an even year, you may also contact your political party prior to May 1. You can also fill out an election judge interest form and email it to your county election office.

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She has asked for the city’s communication staff to help spread the word about the need for election judges via social media, and she suspects she will need to connect with staff at Anoka County Elections for additional resources to recruit additional judges. Chaika guesses one factor that could be impacting election judge numbers is safety. “One concern I’ve had heard from several former election judges is that they have decided to no longer participate as election judges because they’re concerned for their safety due to the current state of politics nationwide, especially leading into a presidential election year,” she explained. In Washington County, it is also becoming more difficult to find election judges. In an effort to “show appreciation” and attract more judges, the county has increased the election judge pay. “To remain competitive in recruiting and ensure judges return to work for future elections, the county board has increased the election judge pay in a proactive move to show appreciation for the hard work of past and future election judges,” explained Christie Piskura, taxpayer services and elections division manager. “The purpose of the increased wages is to align Washington County’s election judge pay rates with those of other metro areas.” The increase will be in effect for elections this year.

Hugo City Clerk Michele Lindau says she still needs judges for all of the elections in 2024. For the presidential nominating primary, the city of Hugo needs 24 full-time judges to staff the city’s six precincts. For the general election, the city will need closer to 60 judges (about four of them full-time judges). “(Finding judges has) been tough with snowbirds and winter breaks,” Lindau explained. “Many of my judges are dedicated and come back to work every election, and I really appreciate that.” Lindau is hoping she can find some judges who are still considered trained from the last election, but the city also plans to share the news of the city’s need for election judges in the city newsletter and on social media. Perhaps Ramsey County is the outlier. According to the county’s election office, the county is seeing its “highest interest ever” in residents who would like to serve as an election judge. Depending on the year, Ramsey County requires around 1,200 to 1,700 election judges to properly staff its polling places. Since 2019, the county has had a waitlist for every election of 200 to 500 people who are interested in being election judges. Many cities in Ramsey County, including White Bear Lake and Shoreview, have turned to the county to help manage elections. “One of the reasons for contracting with the county was because it was getting more difficult to recruit election judges, especially head judges,” said Renee Eisenbeisz, Shoreview assistant city manager. “We believe this was due to the increasing complexity of election activities and the fact that the national political landscape is becoming more divisive. Both of these combined meant increased responsibilities and expectations for judges.” Eisenbeisz added that it was also difficult to maintain the required party balance at each polling place required by state statute. “Ramsey County contracts with almost every city for election services, so they have a vast network of election judges that they can move around the county based on needs,” she explained. So, who can be an election judge? You must be eligible to vote in Minnesota and able to read, write and speak English. Students 16 and 17 years of age can be election judge trainees. There are restrictions on having relatives serve together as election judges. (A relative is defined as a spouse, parent, stepparent, child, stepchild, sibling or stepsibling.) Relatives cannot serve together in

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