Quad Community Press

Centennial dives into depths of ‘Finding Nemo JR’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Centennial Middle School (CMS) will soon add another Disney/Pixar show to its repertoire.

Centennial Theatre has previously performed “Frozen,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Mary Poppins,” “Lion King,” and “Aladdin” at CMS. Later this week, CMS will perform “Finding Nemo JR.”

“It’s brand new and just released,” said codirector Eric Webster. “It was a very exciting opportunity to produce a story that everybody knows and loves. Who doesn’t love ‘Finding Nemo?’”

There are approximately 70 students in the cast and 35 students involved in set/costume and booth crew. In addition to co-directors Webster and Laurie Tangren, Kris Schmidt serves as the set/

prop/costume designer and Mary Rudquist is the music director.

Disney’s “Finding Nemo JR” is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie “Finding Nemo,” with new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laidback sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

SEE NEMO JR, PAGE 10

Social media posts swirl about Madinah Lakes

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

LINO LAKES — Posts have been circulating on social media lately regarding Madinah Lakes, a proposal for land located approximately 1.5 miles east of Lexington Avenue on the south side of Main Street (County Road 14), near the city’s border with Blaine.

According to the website for the project, Madinah Lakes will be the first of its kind, master-planned Masjid-centric community in Minnesota. The 156-acre development would be home to over 450 families. The developer is Zikar Holdings, and the project is proposed to include apartments, townhomes, villas, single-family homes of all sizes and senior living homes; a park pavilion, soccer fields and tennis courts; restaurants/ coffee and retail shops; day care and banquet facilities; and a $15 million, 40,000-square-foot masjid, or mosque.

According to City Planner Katie Larsen, the city of Lino Lakes has not yet received a land use application for the project. “We anticipate they will be submitting a concept plan soon,” she said.

Local vet meets urgent need with Twin Cities 1st stand-alone clinic

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Local veterinarian Dr. Liz Sitter is hoping she can fill a need in the north metro.

The Marine on St. Croix resident recently opened Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic in White Bear Lake, which is likely the first stand-alone pet urgent care in the Twin Cities.

“There’s a high demand. It is hard to get into your regular vet, and a lot of times you have to wait for weeks, and the emergency clinics are at capacity,”

Sitter explained. “I saw a big need in the market for urgent care. It’s kind of a newer thing.”

Before the pandemic, general practices could generally carve out time for both regular visits in addition to urgent care, but now there are so many pets in the market that they are having a tough time accommodating them all. Some emergency clinics in the Twin Cities also provide urgent care, but as far as Sitter knows, she is the first vet to open a stand-alone urgent care.

Sitter, who is originally from New Jersey, went to vet school in Oklahoma.

She moved to Minnesota about 11 years ago to be close to her sister. She has been in general practice for 10 years; she formerly worked at Stillwater Veterinary Clinic and Century Animal Clinic in Maplewood.

It was that need she saw while working in general practice that prompted her to open Aurora Urgent Care.

“After the pandemic, I just saw we were turning so many people away every day, especially new clients that didn’t have a clinic, because we were barely being able to fit our current

clients,” Sitter recalled. “I thought it really stunk that their only option was the emergency clinic, which is really expensive, and you have to wait for hours and hours.”

The urgent care offers same-day appointments only from Monday through Friday. It offers in-house blood work and diagnostics, imaging via X-rays and ultrasounds, minor surgeries, end-of-life care and an inhouse pharmacy.

Developer Zikar Holdings plans to submit a land use application for the Madinah Lakes project soon. The project is proposed on the Robinson Sod Farms property in Lino Lakes.

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Centennial Middle School will perform “Finding Nemo JR.” April 4-6. Pictured (from left) are: Britta Clapp, K.K. Luther, Lucy Johnson, Carson Hooper, Madison Rude and Brennan Carlson (front).

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS

Death investigation underway in Blaine

On March 27 at approximately 12 p.m., the Blaine Police Department responded to a report of two unconscious individuals in a vehicle parked in a parking lot located near the 10700 block of Town Square Drive NE in the city of Blaine.

Upon arrival, responders located a deceased adult male and adult female in the vehicle with suspected gunshot wounds. Currently, law enforcement is not looking for any suspects and there is no known threat to the public.

The identification of the decedents will be released upon confirmation from the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. The investigation is ongoing by the Blaine Police Department, Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office and Anoka County Sheriff’s Office. — Anoka County Sheriff’s Office

Lino Lakes man dies in Texas crash

A crash on Monday, March 25, resulted in the death of a Minnesota man on U.S. 69 near Rusk, Texas. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the incident occurred when the driver of an 18-wheeler was traveling south on U.S. 69 at an unsafe speed given the wet road conditions.

At the time of the crash, a 2023 RAM van was also traveling south on U.S. 69. The driver of the 18-wheeler lost control, causing the van to veer off the west edge of the roadway and collide with a tree.

The driver of the van, identified as Nicholas Schintgen, 44, of Lino Lakes, tragically lost his life in the crash. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

COUNTY BRIEFS

All-day food waste recycling location now open

BLAINE —  Anoka County recently opened its first 24/7 organics (food scraps) recycling drop-off location at Johnsville Library, located at 12461 Oak Park Blvd. NE. All food scraps, coffee grounds and some paper products ––Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)certified only –– are accepted at this and all other Anoka County organics drop-off locations. These items are processed into compost at a commercial facility. Compost improves soil quality, increases water retention,and decreases the need for fertilizers.

Visit AnokaCountyMN.gov/ organics for more information on accepted compostable items and locations and hours of all Anoka County organics collection sites. Visit savethefood.com for tips on how to reduce your food waste.

County Road J improvements ahead

The county board has authorized the preparation and acquisition of right of way for improvements to the intersection of Centerville Road and County Road J/ Ash Street and along County Road J/Ash Street from Centerville Road to Otter Lake Road, in the city of Lino Lakes.

This project, scheduled for construction in 2025, will include reconstruction of the bridge over I-35E, addition of a new I-35E off-ramp, addition of a new northbound I-35E on-ramp and various intersection improvements. County will upgrade

outdoor warning signs

The county will pay $138,851 to Embedded Systems of Minneapolis to update its outdoor warning siren system. That cost will cover equipment, maintenance and training. Each city in the county is expected to pay approximately $1,000 per siren.

ONGOING EVENTS

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, April 4; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited.

Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo. com

CURRENT EVENTS

INHERITED STORIES WITH DIETRICH NISSEN

When: 2 p.m. Thursday, April 4

Where: Gable Pines, 1260 East County Rd. E, Vadnais Heights

Details: Learn how to create a legacy video documentary with the founder of Inherited Stories. RSVP by April 1.

Contact: 651-350-1703 or gablepineslife@gablepines. com

COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR

When: 3-6 p.m. Thursday, April 4

Where: Vadnais Heights Commons

Details: Free screenings and information from local healthcare providers.

Contact: 651-401-3211 or vhedc.com

‘PINOCCHIO’

When: 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Thursday, April 4 and Friday, April 5; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, April 6; 1 & 4 p.m. Sunday, April 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave. White Bear Lake

Details: Storu within a story version of the classic tale. See ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

‘I AM MY OWN WIFE’

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 5 & 12; 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, April 6; 7 p.m. Sunday, April 7; 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13; and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 14

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave. White Bear Lake

Details: Lakeshore Players performs the true story od a transgender woman who survived the Nazis and East German Communist regime. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

SPIRIT OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Boatworks Commons,

Details: 5K and 5-mile run out and back on a paved trail along White Bear Lake. Proceeds support the

Lunch with a Naturalist: Maple Syruping

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, April 3

Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Bring a lunch and hear a naturalist-led presentation for all ages. May include optional hike or outdoor component. Registration not required; equipment provided.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

Strive program at WBLAHS and Area Learning Center. Register online.

Contact: midwestevents.com/mwe-event/spirit-ofwhite-bear-lake-5k-5-mile-2

WILDWOOD SEED LIBRARY GRAND OPENING

When: noon-2 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Wildwood Library, Mahtomedi

Details: Learn about the new seed library with a seed swap, workshops with Washington County Master Gardeners, and crafts. Guest speaker Diane Wilson, author of “The Seed Keeper” will discuss the traditions of seed stewartship at 2 p.m.

Contact: washcolib.org

A CAPPELLA SHOWCASE

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 6

Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi

Details: Concert features A Cappella groups from Mahtomedi Public Schools, the community, local colleges, and universities. Ticket information online.

Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

• In January, staff presented three options to replace the public works facility’s failed boiler, which included a boiler on eBay (now gone) and a geothermal option, which was too costly. Staff is now left with Option 1, a new high-efficiency boiler ($14,445 for the unit alone). The new boiler project, estimated at $20,000, will be financed using money from the capital equipment replacement fund.

• Rainy day watering causes the city to waste thousands of gallons of water annually. Council gave city staff approval to apply for $5,000 in grant funding through the Metropolitan Council Water Efficiency Grant Program and to execute a smart irrigation controller rebate program. The application deadline is March 29, with an implementation date of early July 2024.

• Council approved a cost share agreement with the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) for alum treatment. The grant requires a local match in the amount of 10% of the grant award. The RCWD sought a small percentage of the needed matching funds from stakeholders, such as the Anoka County Parks Department and the cities of Lino Lakes and Centerville. The maximum contribution from each partner has been set at $35,000, with the RCWD contributing $50,000. Centerville has enough funds in its stormwater fund to pay for its entire share. If all parties contribute, the first of two treatments will take place this May. The treatment will drastically improve the water quality in the lake and should last about 20 years. The Centerville Lake Cleanup and public meeting will be held on April 11 at the Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes. Matt Kocian of RCWD Lake and Stream Management will present. For more information, visit the city’s website at www.centervillemn.com.

• Statz noted recent two open houses that took place earlier in the week. On March 25, citizens gave their input on the LaLonde proposal, tax increment financing, parking, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan, projects, the parks capital improvement plan, unfunded projects and street improvement projects. Council also surveyed its residents on municipal issues. Attendees voted on their priorities in descending order of preference: a community center, memorial for veterans and first responders, warming house/concession stand, pickleball courts, entrance monuments, hockey rink upgrade, high-quality restaurant, playground equipment, splash pad, drainage and storm water management, trailside park seating, park signage, affordable housing and more.

• The CSAH 54/20th Avenue Corridor Study Open House on March 26 was hosted by Anoka County, Lino Lakes and Centerville. The study outlines how the roadway will look within the next five to 10 years. Roundabouts are a prominent option in the planning. Citizens who attended the open house to study maps and layouts offered their opinions via Post-it note. Citizen input will help determine the mix and match configuration of where those roundabouts would be, among other things, Statz said.

• City staff will review and interview the 10 or so qualified applicants that applied for seasonal public works and parks maintenance positions.

• The Minnesota Department of Health completed its annual inspection of the city’s water system operation, usage, licenses and yearly reports on March 14. Samples for analysis were taken for the well entry points and tower. A follow-up report detailing the visit, sample results and recommendations will be sent to the city in four weeks, Statz said.

The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, at City Hall, 1880 Main St.

Loretta Harding

Local connections

If you’ve taken the time to read this (in print or online), I offer my sincere thanks. If you are a Press subscriber, I need to let you know that your support is genuinely appreciated. The fact that you’re connecting with a local source for information is also a tangible and valid indication that you are curious and care about what’s going on in your community. I help oversee the operation and flow of content on our combined websites, so I see the variety of local content that is researched and created by members of our dedicated staff on a daily and weekly basis. These articles cover a range that includes human interest features, in depth stories originating from city hall meetings, sports and breaking news.

Angle of View

Paul Dols

Starting with a rudimentary website in the early 2000s, I’ve been involved in at least four generations of news website evolution, logging years of experience working on setup, management, content creation and troubleshooting. Over the years I’ve looked at the website fundamentally as a tool to work in tandem with our print products, a way to reach an expanded audience while also providing opportunities to present stories with additional space for photos and video presentations.

There was a period of time when I was frustrated and sometimes impatient with some of the user complaints we were receiving and concluded that I needed to change my approach — or else be resigned to remaining in a perpetual cycle of intermittent irritation. Once it finally dawned on me that the readers who contacted us with concerns and complaints cared enough about their local newspaper to make the effort to let us know when something wasn’t working, my perspective changed, and a more collaborative point of view emerged. Now when we receive messages from readers concerning various website issues, I try to work with them as troubleshooting partners. With a little patience we’ve managed to work together through most issues we’ve encountered. I believe one of the most valuable skills I’ve learned through accumulated experience — that is also transferrable into daily life — is troubleshooting. Learning how to effectively trouble-shoot a problem is all about pragmatically gathering information, not to support a preconceived notion, but to reveal the truth so that the underlying problem can be solved. Coincidentally, this is among the fundamental principles that also guides ethical journalism.

I’ve been wary and skeptical of social media since the mid 2000s, when Facebook and other platforms started to gain mass followings. I accept that there might be some good things that can be attributed to social media but, in my opinion, the harm and disfunction that has been unleashed far outweighs the positive aspects that appear to only benefit small, singularly focused minority interests.

In his column last week, Press Publications Publisher Emeritus Gene Johnson shared his perspective on some of challenges of competing with social media and also stressed the continued importance of a trusted local newspaper as part of a healthy community. All I can add is that coverage and information shared by respected media organizations like the Poynter Institute and the American Journalism Project agree with his perspective. A recent article on the Poynter Institute website described the local coverage readers missed following the decline of a family-owned newspaper in Indiana after control switched to a private equity company and a passage from the American Journalism Project website reads “Local news bridges divides in communities, showcases opportunities for community connection, highlights community perspectives, and sheds light on how policy issues affect readers and their neighbors.”

Thanks again for partnering with us as we navigate through some challenging and uncharted territory.

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238

YSpring is all about planning

ou’re likely familiar with the Benjamin Franklin quote “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!”

Many of us seem so busy trying to get through today, planning for the future almost doesn’t feel manageable.

Whether planning for our children’s future or our own golden years, planning ahead is important. Preparation makes the most of opportunities and resources, saves time, and reduces stress.

Movers & Shakers

Michelle Koch

Recently, I’ve sat in on an input session for Centennial School District’s longrange plan and worked on putting together the Quad Area Chamber’s 3rd annual Senior Expo and Wellness Fair, covering both ends of the generational spectrum. Any thriving community consists of people of all ages. It comes as no surprise that different stages of life come with different needs. Regardless of the phase, prior planning is key to making the most of the stage. The work the district is putting into a 10-year plan will benefit children that aren’t yet born and the seniors who will attend the expo will

leave better prepared for the years ahead.

When we aren’t sure what lies ahead it is tempting to not think about it. As if ignoring the future delays it’s reality.

The chamber’s March Lunch & Learn was a workshop focused on AI. A hot topic that feels overwhelming. It is new, constantly changing, and we don’t know what we don’t know. The consensus amongst attendees seemed to be that we all were a little nervous about AI and also wanted to gain better understanding. We all knew that burying our heads in the sand wasn’t the wisest option.

The future is coming and we should prepare ourselves, our businesses, and our communities as best we can. We won’t all see things the same or want the same out of the future but we benefit of collectively coming together to share ideas and perspectives.

Spring is all about planning. We plan gardens, projects, trips and more. It may be my favorite season because it feels full of anticipation. There are sunny days and events to look forward to!

Some of the nonprofits in our area are hosting their big fundraisers of the year. The Centennial Area Education Foundation will host its Ebony & Ivory Gala on April 13 and the Chain of Lakes Rotary will host its Chain of Giving

Pre-Derby Party on May 3.

These events require a lot of planning. While they are fun to attend, their purpose is to raise money for future needs.

Money raised will be used to better life in our community and beyond. Without the work put into pre-planning the events wouldn’t be successful and the organizations wouldn’t be able to serve the worthy causes.

Please visit the chamber’s website QuadAreaChamber.org to check out the community calendar. There you will find our events and happenings around our area. You are also able to submit your own event!

Add the Senior Expo & Wellness Fair to your calendar! It will take place on May 16 from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Genevieve’s Parish Community Center in Centerville. There will be local vendors, eye-glass collection, sharps collection, wellness checks and more. Sponsorship opportunities and vendor space is still available. This free to attend event is full of resources for aging well in the Quad Area, perfect for seniors and those who care about and for them.

Happy Spring, Quad community!

Michelle Koch, Quad Area Chamber President

p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

COPS&COURTS

POLICE REPORTS

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• An officer was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of Main Street regarding damage to property March 19. The investigation is ongoing.

• An officer located two juveniles violating city ordinances near 12th Avenue and White Oak Road March 19. The officer educated the juveniles on the ordinances and advised their parent.

• Officers responded to a domestic incident in Lino Lakes March 19. An adult female was arrested and booked into jail for domestic assault.

• Officers responded to a report of two intoxicated individuals leaving a local establishment in the 1800 block of Main Street March 20. Officers located the vehicle, and the driver was subsequently arrested for DWI.

• An officer and fire personnel responded to a call of an illegal burn in the 6600 block of Centerville Road March 21. The property owner was informed of city ordinance, and the fire was extinguished.

• Officers responded to assist the State Patrol on a crash

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

What!! Our property taxes up 34%?

Upon opening our latest Anoka County tax statement, we discovered that the estimated market value of the modest “starter home” we purchased in 1970 rose by 29% and our actual property tax rose by 34% for 2024.

Thinking there must be some mistake, I called the assessor’s office and was told, “There is no mistake. Several ‘comparable’ properties in your area have sold at higher-than-expected prices; so, we have to increase your estimated market value.”

Fifty-four years ago, my wife and I, our two young children, and our beloved cocker spaniel drove out to Lino Lakes to check out an advertisement for affordable houses in a new

with injuries in the 1500 block of I-35W March 21. The State Patrol handled the crash investigation.

• An officer observed a suspicious vehicle at a business in the 500 block of Apollo Drive March 22. The officer contacted the occupants of the vehicle and detected signs of impairment. The driver was subsequently arrested and later charged with DWI.

• An officer responded to a report of drugs in an apartment building in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway March 22. Officers arrived and received paraphernalia from the complainant, but no drugs.

• An officer responded to a theft report at a liquor store in the 600 block of Apollo Drive March 23. Suspects were identified and issued citations for theft. The stolen merchandise was not recovered.

• An officer responded to a home under construction in the 2000 block of Norway Lane for suspicious lights inside March 23. The officer found the suspicious lights to be from a propane space heater in the basement.

• Officers were dispatched to a home in Lino Lakes for a

domestic situation March 23. After investigating, an adult male was arrested and booked into jail on domestic-related charges.

• An officer stopped a vehicle near Lake Drive and Hodgson Road for not having its headlights on in inclement weather March 24. The adult male driver was cited for driving without headlights and driving without a license. An adult female was also cited for driving without a license.

• Officers responded to a report of a confused elderly male wandering near Post Road and Stagecoach Trail March 25. Officers located the male, and he was returned home to family.

• An officer received a phone call report regarding a loose dog in the 6900 block of Sunrise Drive March 25. The officer contacted the dog’s owner. The owner was given a verbal warning and advised of city ordinances.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• Officers responded to a domestic violence restraining order (DANCO) violation in Circle Pines March 20. Officers observed a male

who was known to have a DANCO prohibiting him from the residence. The male was also found to be threatening the protected parties. The male was ultimately arrested.

• Police received a report of criminal sexual conduct in Centerville March 20. The case was referred to the Anoka County Criminal Investigations Division.

• Police responded to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Main Street and 20th Avenue in Centerville March 20.

• Police received a phone call about a dog in the 7200 block of Unity Avenue in Centerville March 20.

• Officers responded to the 2000 block of Main Street in Centerville March 20 on a report of trespassing.

• Police responded to the 9100 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington March 20 for a property damage accident.

• Officers responded to the 3800 block of Lovell Road in Lexington March 21 on report of a motor vehicle versus deer accident.

• Police received a phone call regarding harassment in the 7100 block of Brian Drive in Centerville March 21.

• An officer took a female into custody near the intersection of Lake Drive

POLITICAL BRIEF

and Lexington Avenue in Lexington March 22 on an outstanding warrant.

• Police responded to the 10 block of North Road in Circle Pines March 22 regarding an ordinance violation. The resident was advised of the snowmobile riding ordinance.

• Police received a report of harassment in the 8900 block of Syndicate Avenue in Lexington March 23.

• Officers conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Lexington Avenue NE and West Road in Circle Pines March 24. An arrest was made for an outstanding warrant.

• Police received a phone call March 24 from a resident in the 2000 block of Willow Circle in Centerville, who reported fraud.

• An English bulldog was reported lost from the area of Oak Leaf Lane in Circle Pines March 25.

• Officers responded to the 1800 block of Fox Run in Centerville March 25 for damage to city property.

• A theft was reported in the 0 block of South Drive in Circle Pines March 25.

• Police responded to a property damage accident near the intersection of Lexington Avenue NE and Woodland Road in Circle Pines March 20.

development named Chomonix. We were told that they had five different home models available and that all of them were on a golf course or (for a 2% premium) on Lake Reshanau. We chose the least expensive home and paid the $500 premium to have it built on one of the lake lots.

Our house is the oldest, smallest and least expensive in the neighborhood. No improvements have been made within the last 25 years. There are no “comparable” properties in the area. They are all unique. The sale of a few properties several times larger than ours “should not a market make,” according to the real estate folks that I have talked to.

Anoka County’s “mass appraisal process” which was in the Anoka County News, volume

1-2024 (and was printed in last week’s issue of the Quad Press) is a financial disaster for us and for neighbors like us who are trying to stay in our homes while living on fixed or declining incomes.

According to Anoka County News, “Commercial, industrial and apartment property owners are likely to see larger tax increases compared to that of residential.” That is certainly not true for this resident (or for the business owners I have talked to). We have lived here for 54 years and have never seen such a dramatic, inequitable property tax increase! This 34% increase makes our plan to live out our lives in the “starter home” that we love seem almost impossible.

Bob Nelson

Lino Lakes

Emmer announces 2024 Congressional Art Competition

The Office of Congressman Tom Emmer (MNDistrict 6) has begun accepting applications for the 2024 Congressional Art Competition.

“The Congressional Art Competition gives the Sixth District’s young artists an opportunity to showcase their impressive work,” Emmer said. “We look forward to the competition every year and are excited to put our local students’ talent on display in the Capitol!”

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition for high school students across the United States. The winner from each district wins the chance to travel to Washington, D.C., to visit with their representative and see their artwork displayed in the Halls of Congress.  Sixth District students from grade 9-12 are encouraged to participate, and should deliver all submissions to Emmer’s district office in Otsego by 5 p.m. Friday, April 19. More information on the competition is available online at www.house. gov/educators-and-students/congressional-artcompetition.

• Effective April 30, City Council Member Dean Goldberg will resign from his seat on the council. In his resignation letter, he said, “I have loved the time I’ve spent serving the city in this way. I also very much enjoyed working with you, city staff, our police and fire departments and my council member colleagues. It was an experience I will treasure always.”

The city will accept applications for the vacant seat through May and interviews will be held in June followed by an appointment from the City Council. The appointee will fill the remaining year and a half of Goldberg’s term.

“I’m sorry to see you go. I think you have done a tremendous job on the council,” said City Council Member Matt Percy.

• Lino Lakes resident Sam Bennett, who has made his rounds to other city councils, hopes he can find a group of volunteers to help clean up the litter along roadways in the Quad area for Earth Day. “There is just so much junk, litter and debris that is along the roadways,” he said. “I want to get a group together for Earth Day Weekend … Get a group of volunteers to bag trash, set it on the side of the road and have city vehicles come and pick it up. Maybe a lunch afterward.”

The council told Bennett they would help him spread the word and suggested some local businesses may want to get involved. They also suggested he connect with the Quad Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Save the date. Residents are invited to attend the citywide cleanup event on Saturday, April 27.

• The Utilities Commission has awarded two scholarships to Centennial High School students. The first-place winner, Cameron Sherer, received $2,000, andsecond place winner, Nora Fredrick, received $1,000.

CENTENNIAL SCHOOL BOARD SNIPPETS

• This school year, a new K-5 math curriculum, Math Expressions, was implemented.

Benchmark Advance was implemented in the 2018-19 school year.

In reviewing student progress in literacy, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning Mark Grossklaus explained that it was determined that the district needs to look for supplemental literacy support in phonics. This year, K-2 teachers looked at phonics support that could help students and piloted several phonics programs to find one to help students.

It was determined that University of Florida Literacy Institute (UFLI)

• Several businesses are being recognized by the city for years of service.

o Anoka Hennepin Credit Union: 75 years

o United States Post Office: 75 years

o Metro License Center: 45 years

o McDonald’s: 45 years

o Frattallone’s: 30 years

o Accounting Associates Inc.: 20 years

o Centennial Lakes Little League: 5 years

o Casey’s: 5 years

• Even though the project won’t take place until next year, the city is already gearing up for the street rehabilitation project, which will consist of pavement rehabilitation using reclamation methods to place a new bituminous section as well as mill and overlay.

The roadways that are proposed for the project include: Golden Lake Road, West Golden Lake Road, Village Parkway, Central Street, Cameo Lane, Golden Oak Drive, Oak Leaf Lane from Oak Ridge Trail to Woodcrest Drive, Oak Road, South Pine Drive from South Drive to Oak Leaf Lane, and South Drive from South Pine Drive to South Road.

The city will pay WSB a not-to-exceed fee of $98,576 for services on the project. City Administrator Patrick Antonen explained that property owners in the project area should expect a more “affordable” assessment for the reclamation project vs. a full reconstruction project.

The city will open bids in January 2025. Construction should begin in the spring and finish in the fall. Residents should expect informational meetings to be held this summer.

Foundations would be used as a supplement to the district’s K-2 literacy curriculum.

• The district is making some changes to its contract with Rehbein Transit in hopes it can save some money.

The district’s contract with the bus company is set to expire this July. The new contract will apply to the 20252026 school year, an include an option to extend it an additional two years pending negotiations.

Executive Director of Business Services Patrick Chaffey explained that the district has one of the lowest costs for bus services compared to other districts in the area. “We knew there

would be an increase,” he said.

Right now, it costs the district about $349 per bus per day; on average, other districts pay approximately $400 to $450 per bus per day, he said.

By making some small tweaks, Chaffey said the district should save approximately $250,000. One of the more notable changes is a shift in bell times. Starting next year, the middle school and high school bells will ring five minutes earlier and the bells at the elementary schools will ring five minutes later.

“That provides a window in the middle (that) allows for transportation and more time, making sure that we can transport students on the front end as well as transport students on the back end. It also lengthens the day for the bus drivers,” Chaffey said. The projected cost is $391 per bus per day, which Chaffey said remains below neighboring districts.

• The district continues to discuss how it can involve the community in the long-range planning process. Superintendent Jeff Holmberg says a survey link will be sent out and a listening session will be offered this spring or fall. The district also plans to form stakeholder groups.

• The district will join other districts around the state in searching for a boys volleyball coach, after the Minnesota State High School League added it as a sanctioned sport. The first season will begin in spring 2025.

• Starting in the fall, Schools for Equity in Education (SEE) will change its name to Schools Advocating for Fair Funding (SAFF).

The next Centennial School Board meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 15, at the District Office.

Shannon Granholm

Waiting Child

Lawrence (Larry), 14, is very insightful. His wittiness, sarcasm, and humor make him a lot of fun to be around. Some of Larry’s favorite things include Transformers, spicy buffalo wings,

Submitted by Foster Adopt Minnesota, a state organization whose vision is to have zero kids waiting for permanent loving families, and mission to find and strengthen Minnesota adoptive, foster care and kinship families. To learn more, go to www.fosteradoptmn.org

799752

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The city of Circle Pines recognizes the Centennial Lakes Little League for serving the city for five years, although the league has been around since 1958. Mayor Dave Bartholomay is pictured with longtime President Pat Mahr.

The city of Circle Pines recognizes McDonald’s for doing business in the city for 40 years. Mayor Dave Bartholomay is pictured with the store’s general manager, Tanner Lee, who grew up in the area.

AURORA CLINIC: Sees pets in a timely fashion

The clinic does not offer vaccinations or elective procedures, but can help when it comes to things like vomiting or diarrhea, coughing or sneezing, minor wounds, skin rashes and more. (See pullout box for more information.)

The clinic is designed to feel more like a home, rather than a pet hospital.

“I wanted a warm, welcoming, homey atmosphere and not so sterile and ‘doctory,’” she explained. “I wanted it to look a bit more like a house versus a hospital.”

For clients who are forced to make one of the toughest decisions they will ever have to make, they will find a room that looks just like a living room, rather than a doctor’s office. They can sit on a couch, or the floor with their pup while they lay on a comfortable bed rather than a cold metal table.

In addition to the health of the pets, Sitter also cares about the health of her staff.

“A lot of people in this field struggle with mental health issues,” she said. “One thing I wanted to do is to open a space that has a positive company culture, (values) lots of open communication and puts staff first.” She added, “I want to help as many pets get seen in a timely, more cost-effective matter, but also while balancing and maintaining like mental health of the staff.”

Dr. Sitter currently has two technicians, Riley Jorissen and Anny Yang. Jorissen, of Fridley, has been in the field for 26 years, 14 of those serving as a certified veterinary technician.

“During COVID, the veterinary field changed a lot; it changed for the worse. A lot of technicians are leaving the field,” she explained. Jorissen left the field herself for a year and was trying to figure out what she was going to do next. She stumbled across what Dr. Sitter was doing and applied to be the receptionist.

“During the interview, I was impressed with her wanting to keep everything local and just helping the people around us,” Jorissen explained. “I was excited to work with Dr. Liz

because she's offering something that is so new to this field. I am super excited to like be at the beginning of this. Twenty-six years in this field, and this is probably the coolest thing I've done.” Yang, of St. Paul, has been in the field for 3 1/2 years. She said she is looking forward to the opportunity to continue to grow her skill set in the field.

“I think with this clinic being here, it will help a lot of the clients that come in,” she said. “We are open to seeing anybody.”

The clinic is located at 4874 Highway 61 in White Bear Lake. For more information about Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic, visit www. auroraurgentvet.com. To make a same-day appointment, call the clinic at 651-422-PETS (7387).

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

When should you go to urgent care versus an emergency clinic?

Urgent Care

• Ear infections

• Skin rashes and itching

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Coughing or sneezing

• Not eating

• Losing weight

• Broken toenail

• Minor wounds

• Limping

• Red, gunky or squinty eyes

• New or irritated lumps and bumps

• End-of-life appointments

Emergency Clinic

• Labored breathing

• Pale or white gums

• Hit by a car or large/extensive wounds

• Bloated belly with nonproductive retching

• Actively bleeding, more than just a slow drip

• Toxin ingestion

• Collapsed/unable to rise and walk

• A seizure lasting more than 5 minutes or multiple seizures in a 24-hour period

• A very rapid and steep decline in health

LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• The 2024 street project is moving ahead. The project will include Griggs Avenue between Flowerfield Road and Restwood Road; and Griggs Avenue from Restwood Road to approximately 375 feet north of Restwood Road. Construction is set to begin this May or June. Periodic maintenance is currently being performed on Restwood Road and Flowerfield Road to fill in cracks.

• The city of Lexington is one of many member cities involved with North Metro TV. For 2024, the city will receive $4,000 from PEG fees.

• The City Council is in support of a resolution that aims to modernize public education and government (PEG) programming/public access funding. Public television programming has primarily been funded through franchise fees. As consumers have moved from traditional cable providers to streaming services, the funds available for public television programming have decreased.

The Minnesota Association of Community Telecommunications Administrators (MACTA) is a statewide organization of municipalities and nonprofit staff that advocate for cities and their residents. MACTA has launched a campaign to create legislative changes at the state and federal level that will respond to consumer changes.

The council suggested directing PEG fees to video streaming, which will bring in more funds. Two organizations have already approached Lexington with a proposal to lay infrastructure within community for streaming and internet purposes.

• Surplus city equipment will be listed on the auction site Govdeals.com. The site allows members of the public the opportunity to bid on items. Items include a dump truck, roller drum, compactor, zero-turn mower, front mower, aerator, brine tank applicator, 26 fire hydrants and two snowplows.

• Autozone, located at 9210 South Highway Drive, now has a business license to operate within the city (pending a background check.) The business plans to undertake renovations soon. Renaissance Fireworks now also has a license to operate at 9300 Lexington Avenue.

• City Heat Charities will host a motorcycle run June 2.

• Curious Crow Company may be adding a location in Lexington. The business recently applied for a building permit to renovate the space formerly occupied by Lyke’s Boxing in the Northway Mall. City Administrator Bill Petracek explained that nothing is for certain until the business applies for its business license. For more information about Curious Crow, visit curiouscrowcompany.com.

Hannah Testa

COMMUNITY BRIEF

RCWD hosts public meeting for Centerville Lake

The Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) plans to host a community meeting from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 11, at the Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes about the upcoming alum treatment project on Centerville Lake. Matt Kocian, RCWD lake and stream manager, will talk about the project and give community members an update on the treatment that will be take place this spring/summer. There is no need to register. The Wargo Nature Center is located at 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes. For more information on the project, visit www.ricecreek.org/project/ centerville-lake-alum-treatment.

SHANNON GRAHNOLM } PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic is likely the first stand-alone pet urgent care in the Twin Cities. Pictured (from left) are Dr. Liz Sitter and Technicians Anny Yang and Riley Jorissen.

Alana is a mature, middle-aged girl with a heart of gold. She arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a highkill shelter in Texas. Alana may be initially timid around new people, but after slow, patient introductions, she is full of affection and companionship.

Alana is a Labrador retriever/black mouth cur mix and weighs about 60 pounds. It is estimated she is about 8 years old. Alana is house-trained, crate-trained and leash-trained, and knows her basic commands. She is quiet and has a mild energy level. Once Alana gets to know you and trust is built, she is affectionate and eager to please. She will seek attention and an occasional treat.

Alana is social with large dogs her size but may not do well in a home with small dogs or cats. Alana will do well with a patient, loving family who will give her the time she needs to adapt and become part of the family. If you are interested in learning more about Alana or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue. org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

NEMO JR: Middle school takes on just-released show

FROM PAGE 1

Tangren, who also helps with costume design, says the show is “very true to the movie.”

Webster and Tangren said they have both enjoyed watching the actors make the characters come to life. “They are so, so good and have done such a tremendous job of capturing the characters’ personalities,” Tangren said.

One thing that makes this show unique from others CMS has performed previously, is it all takes place “underwater”. “We have been diligent with students about movement and reminding them that they are underwater,” Webster explained.

Eighth grader Grace Palm plays a shark named Bruce. “It is fun because I get to be the villain but also not really the villain because he turns

himself around,” she explained.

Eighth grader Katherine Knutson plays Dory, a character she can relate to. “I love her personality; She is kind of all over the place, which may or may not be me,” she laughed. “It is really fun to channel her character and her energy and the way I can move around stage to embody her character.”

Eighth grader Madison Rude plays Nemo. “I like how energetic and happy he is,” she said. She also gave a shout out to the “colorful and beautiful” set and props.

Eighth grader Logan Johnson plays Marlin, Nemo’s dad. He said he likes fake crying in the role, but that can also be a challenge too. “You should come see the show because we have put a lot of effort into it,” he said. “It is a really beautiful show.”

Eighth grader Brennan Carlson plays Gill. “I like being the (tank)

IF YOU GO:

When: 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 4, and Friday, April 5; 1 p.m. or 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 6.

Where: Centennial Middle School, 399 Elm St., Lino Lakes

Details: Centennial Middle School will perform DisneyPixar’s “Finding Nemo JR.” For tickets, visit https:// centennialtheatre. org.

boss,” he explained.

Tangren said she is proud of all the students in the show.

“They are truly an amazing group of talented, hard-working and great kids. I love them all so much,” Tangren said.“I’m very proud of all the students in this show. They are truly an amazing group of talented, hard-working and great kids. I love them all so much,” Tangren said.

Webster added, “It’s such a great story and so touching and so funny. And the students we have are tremendous. We have amazing students in our cast and on our crew with a very high level of talent.”

Tickets for the show need to be purchased online in advance at https://centennialtheatre.org.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

SHANNON GRANHOLM |PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The fish try to convince the shark, Bruce, that “fish are friends, not food.” Bruce is played by eighth grader Grace Palm.

SAFE

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or not Titled or not Will pick up.

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject

Are you looking for something to keep your child(ren) busy?

How about something that gives them cash? Talk to them about delivering newspapers!

Position is open until filled.

Anoka County Sheriff’s Office:

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

CIRCLE PINES — It’s been a while since the Anoka County Sherriff’s Office (ACSO) has visited the city of Circle Pines to provide an update on the department.

But recently, ACSO Chief Deputy Bill Jacobson visited the council to do just that. Quad Press readers may recognize Jacobson, as he previously worked for the Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD). He was born and raised in Circle Pines.

“(I wanted) to provide an update of what is going on at the sheriff’s office,” he said. “It’s been a number of years since we have been here.”

Because the city of Circle Pines is served by its own police department, CLPD, Jacobson said the ACSO can help the city with a variety of things, including criminal investigations, death investigations, special victim crimes, crime scene unit, jail, SWAT team, K-9 teams, drone services, special deputies, marine unit, permit to carry, Midwest Regional Forensic Lab and recreational patrol.

This year, the county’s SWAT team has undergone some significant changes. Instead of being composed exclusively of ACSO deputies, the team is now a mix of deputies and licensed police officers from across the county.

“A SWAT team is not something you want to need, but you have to have them if you do need them,” Jacobson said. He added that the change to the team has “made them better.” “We can do more. Our team has doubled in size,” he explained.

A council member wanted to know whether the CLPD had any members serving on the SWAT team. Jacobson explained that there are not currently any members from CLPD, but that doesn’t mean that CLPD couldn’t have an officer on the team in the future.

Another change this year is the ACSO has started a cold case unit, which will be funded by grant monies over the next few years.

“It is a big thing you see on TV … For us, that is a new reality in Anoka County,” Jacobson said. “Using new investigative techniques with both science and DNA, and reexamining some of the case files, we are going to make a real difference and bring some closure to folks who don’t have answers in those types of cases. That’s a big win for us, and we think it is going to be a big win for the citizens of Anoka County.”

Motorists driving around the county will also soon notice new squad car graphics for an “updated and fresh” look.

Later this year, the ACSO also plans to add another K-9 team, bringing the number of teams up to four countywide.

One challenge the ACSO continues to face is its jail, which Jacobson described as “outdated.” Anoka County has proposed to build a new county jail off Jackson Street and Fourth Avenue. The current jail in downtown Anoka was built in 1983 and was originally designed for 130 inmates.

“We need support from our local officials to get that project moving,” Jacobson explained.

Staffing and retention also continue to be a significant challenge, as it is for most agencies

statewide. He said the ACSO is currently down approximately seven deputies.

“We are not alone. We have a lot of peer agencies that are struggling with recruitment and retention, and that is going to be an ongoing thing for us and policing in general as we move forward into 2024 and beyond,” He said. “There are not enough students in law enforcement right now to fill the vacancies we are seeing in Minnesota.”

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

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64

154 3 8 Divisions

Full-time Equivalents Patrol Deputies

Civilian Employees Counties served by the Midwest Regional Forensic Lab Communities that use ACSO for police coverage

SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2024

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL BASEBALL

Coach — Bobby Lynch

Assistants — Matt Scardigli, Jon Lieser

Last year — 15-10 overall, 8-4 conference, section runner-up

Returning starters — Seniors: Josh Lee (pitcher), Aiden Lieser (pitcher, first base), Peyton Streit (shortstop), Luke Gunderman (pitcher, outfield), Tyler Gruye (3rd base, outfield, pitcher); Junior: Jack Dagostino (3rd base, pitcher)

Other lettermen — Seniors: Tyler Escobedo (2nd base), Maverick Harper (outfield), Noel Sieg (outfield)

Fast facts — Streit hit .300 with 24 RBI and made allconference last year. Lee threw 42.7 innings (3-4 record, 2.56 ERA). Gruye batted .310.

Coach says — “This is a very experienced team. We bring back over 120 innings on the mound, and over 300 plate appearances. We are led by a senior class that won the 15AAA state title.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GOLF // GIRLS

Coach — Nicole Christensen

Assistants — Jacob Vevea, Spencer Waldvogel

Last year – 6th place 13 in conference, 7th in section.

Returning starters — Seniors: Marina Allen, Lily Rupert. Juniors: Abigail Rome, Gabbie Steele. Sophomores: Tatum Knox, Katlynn Pracht. Freshmen: Taylor Thor, Charlye Weymann

Also likely to play — 7th grade: Taylor Nelson

Fast facts — Allen and Thor are captains. Allen was a state qualifier last year and placed 44th of 88 entrants. It’s Christensen’s first year as coach.

Coach says — “This team is eager to learn and work, and our coaches are excited to teach and support them. Our goal is to compete at every meet and have great team comradery. With adopting more focus, a quality-over-quantity mentality, and working on all aspects of being an athlete on the course, we hope to rise to the top.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TENNIS

Coach — Karl Haynus (1st year)

Last year — 9-1 conference, 14-4 overall

Captain — JJ Bliss

Returning starters — Senior: JJ Bliss; Juniors: Drew Gangl, Ryan Koslowski, Ander Julson; Sophomore: Andrew Abraham

Coach says — “We're going to be a lot younger than last year; we graduated a number of seniors. Goals and expectations will always be to play our best tennis and compete for a deep postseason run.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TRACK // GIRLS

Coaches — John Kretschmer; Steve Thompson

Last year — 10th of 14 in conference, 8th in section

Returning starters — Seniors: Julia Zalewski (800-3200), Abby Wood (800-3200), Maddy Wood (hurdles, high jump), Katie Ross (pole vault), Annie Trettel (throws), Emelia Lauringer (400), Jenna Simso (100), Nora Helvig (100); Juniors: Kylie Nelson (1600), Allenah Loots (jumps), Miranda Sawvel (800), Claire Zandstra (200); Sophomores: Lauren Klein (800), Anna Swanson (800), Kathryn Woelfel (100), Alexis Larsen (100.)

Fast facts — Nelson, Klein, Lauinger, Sawvel, Swanson, Wood and Zalewski were allconference. State qualifiers were Klein (800), and Klein, Lauinger, Zalewski and Nelson (4x400)

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TRACK // BOYS

Coaches — John Kretschmer; Steve Thompson Assistants — Abe Hartsell, Tom Franta (sprints), Caleb Glass (long, triple jump), Jacob Namyst (middle distance), Courtney Johnson and Emily Stoks (distance), Lydia DeBuhr (pole vault), Nate Balzer (high jump, hurdles), Jeramie Burgoon (throws)

Last year — 8th of 14 in conference. 6th in section

Returning starters — Seniors: Jacob Podratz (800, 1600), Trystan Green (sprints), Charles Wills (hurdles, high jump), Harrison Grant (pole vault), Timmy Ball (throws), Logan Huss (throws), Aiden Persing (sprints); Juniors: Fnan Zeresenay (jumps), Gavin Moore (sprints), Jaden Lilly (sprints).

Fast facts — Ball, Green, Podratz were all-conference. State qualifiers were Ball (shot, 5th place, and discus), Green (100), Moore (200), Podratz (4x800).

Coach says — “We have high hopes for the returning state participants (boys and girls) and hope to add a few more to that list. We also have a little over 40 freshmen and many have varsity potential.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL LACROSSE // BOYS

Coach — Seth King

Last year — 9-2 conference, 11-5 overall

Returning letter winners — Seniors: Brol Scherman (mid), Logan Adams (attack), Kellen Krumwiede (mid), Gavin Jorud (mid), Samuel Lewis (mid, face-off), Tyson Bautch (mid), Jacob Robinson (def), Zachary Delmedico (def), CJ Sherer (mid, face-off), Trent Kramer (goalie). Juniors: Lars Goerlitz (defense), Solomon Marshall (attack), Gavin Krage (mid), Easton Cody (mid). Sophomore: Gavin Cunningham (mid)

Fast facts — Scherman, Adams and Robinson were All-NWSC. Scherman (58 goals) and Adams (47 goals) were the top two scorers.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL SOFTBALL

Coach — Rick Thomas

Assistant — Olivia Beaulieu

Last year — 14-10 overall, 7-5 conference

Captains — Lily Gilmore, Callie Casura, Riley O'Connell

Returning starters — Senior: Lily Gilmore (outfield); Juniors: Peyton Corbin (outfield), Riley O'Connell (pitcher); Sophomore: Lily Renslow (catcher)

Other letter winners — Kendall Seidenkranz, Callie Casura, Dori Arndt, Allison Hemming, Kendall Cochran, Mandy Gooder, Maddi Welle

Also likely to play — Abby Wallraff, Maddy Abernathy

Fast facts — O’Connell pitched 121 innings last year with a 1.39 ERA, 135 strikeouts and a 9-0 record.

Coach — Chris Kopp

Assistants — Gary Tolkinen, Jason Frank

Last year — 5th of 13 in conference, 5th in

Returning starters — Seniors: Harper Searles, Tanner Youngbauer; Sophomore: Cooper Daikawa; Freshman: Brady Zins

Other letter winners — Kaden Flint, Charlie Thelen, Joey Perzichilli

Coach says — “Our biggest strength is that we have a great group of kids who want to improve and put in the time. Our goal is to finish in the top five of the Northwest Suburban Conference for the fourth year in

Coach — Hailee Berg

www.presspubs.com

Last year — 9-3 conference, 11-4 overall, section runner-up

Returning letter winners — Seniors: Anna Jarpy (mid), Peyton Brezny (goalie), Karley Lacis (mid), Maria Waller (mid); Juniors: Ella Weist (attack), Teagan Kulenkamp (attack), Avery Sauber (defense); Sophomores: Lillian Brausen (mid), Makenzi Munger (attack), Rian Cheesebrow (attack).

Fast facts — Lacis and Waller are captains. Jarpy was allconference in 2023. Top scorer back is Weist (13 goals).

Coach says — “I think this year we should have a stronger team than ever before and we are all really hoping to make a state tournament appearance … We have a really great and talented group of underclassmen coming up that I'm very excited about.”

• Several residents are concerned about a development concept that may be coming forward for the Robinson Sod Farm. (See full story in this week’s issue.)

• Resident Teresa O’Connell hopes the council will consider contributing to the Rice Lake Watershed District’s alum treatment on Centerville Lake. “It would look so good for other communities to see we are supporting this type of thing,” she said. “If we really have 7,468 homes, that is 47 cents that each home would be paying.” She noted that the watershed district is hosting an informational meeting on the topic April 11. (See brief for more information.)

• Resident Sam Bennett hopes the city can help organize a group of volunteers to clean up all the trash along the roads and trails once the snow melts. “Everywhere you look, it seems like there is junk,” he said.

• The Rookery Activity Center continues to hire part-time staff. Most recently, the City Council approved

the hiring of a lifeguard.

• Legacy Restoration, located at 15350 25th Ave. North in Plymouth, has submitted a solicitor’s permit application to the city clerk. The company representatives that will conduct solicitation in Lino Lakes are Rick Brambrink and Jamiya Walker. The representatives plan to travel through Lino Lakes’ neighborhoods, going door-to-door offering exterior renovations for roofing, siding, windows and gutters and will offer free exterior inspections to potential clients.

• The DRF Lino Eye Building (Associated Eye Care) is officially complete. On Jan. 10, 2022, the city entered into a site performance agreement with DRF Lino Eye Building for the project. The project is located off of 24th Avenue and Rosemary Way east of I-35E. The project has been accepted and a certificate of occupancy has been issued.

• The city will seek bids for the 2024

rejuvenator project. The city’s 2024 Pavement Management Program includes a street rehabilitation project and a street maintenance project. The council already awarded the rehabilitation project construction contract.

City Engineer Diane Hankee, of WSB, explained that the maintenance project includes applying a maltene-based asphalt rejuvenator. “Rejuvenators are a new product many cities are using in lieu of seal coating,” she said, adding that the city has completed three rejuvenator projects the past.

The project, which is estimated to cost $223,000, will include the streets of: Fourth Avenue, Forsham Lake Drive, Stagecoach Trail, Post Road, West Shadow Lake, Shadow Court, Sandpiper Drive, Fox Road,

Joyer Lane, Karth Road, Talle Lane,