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LINO COUNCIL: Censures member following Facebook post PAGE 3
Alexandra House suffers annual funding loss BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Lino Lakes Officer Matt Paulson, selected as Outstanding Officer of the Year, receives a plaque from American Legion Post 566 at the Lino Lakes City Council meeting May 22. Also, pictured are Adjutant Jim Watson (left) and Cdr. Paul Lesch.
maintain law and order. One way we can help out in the community is by recognizing police officers and fi refighters who do that in our communities
BLAINE — A local organization is stunned after it received a 10-week notice of cuts in funding that will result in an annual loss of $238,000. Alexandra House assists individuals and families impacted by domestic and sexual violence through various services such crisis intervention, legal advocacy, housing assistance, school programming and an emergency shelter. The Greater Twin Cities United Way announced April 14 it was facing a $6 million shortfall in donations available for its Partner Agency grants. The organization made the decision to eliminate its Safety from Family Violence funding, totaling $4.5 million. "We are heartbroken that we do not have the resources to fund all of the programs that we have in the past," said Sarah Caruso, president and chief executive officer, Greater Twin Cities United Way. "While we encourage our partners not to have any single source of funding make or break a program, this circumstance has forced us all to make some
SEE LEGION, PAGE 9
SEE ALEXANDRA HOUSE, PAGE 20
SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Lino Lakes Firefighter Lt. Mark Hokkanen was selected as Outstanding Firefighter of the Year.
Legion honors officer, firefighter BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
LINO LAKES — American Legion Post 566 honored two individuals who are making a difference in the
community through police work and fi refighting. The City Council recognized the Outstanding Police Officer of the Year, Matt Paulson, and the Outstanding Firefighter of the Year,
Matt Hokkanen, at its meeting May 22. Sgt. Bill Jacobsen, of the Centennial Lakes Police Department, was also selected. “The American Legion Constitution says to
Bowfishermen aim to catch business BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
Two local businessmen have set out to introduce people to their hobby while doing what they love and reducing the number of rough fish in local lakes. White Bear 2005 grads Ben Borowske, of Stacy, and Nik Anderson, of Hugo, founded their company B.A. Bowfishing Guide Service about two years ago. Although the business is fairly new, the two were first exposed to the sport 15 years ago. “We tried out bowfishing in Wisconsin and loved it,” Anderson said. Borowske and Anderson kept taking friends out to give the sport a try, and they loved it. “They got
hooked so fast. I looked around and there was really nothing in this area, so we figured it would be a good opportunity. There are guides services for all types of fishing, but there are only a couple of bowfishing guide services in the state,” Borowske explained. The two bought a boat, rebuilt it and decided to start a business, even though it wasn't the ideal time. Anderson and his wife have a 2-year-old and a 4-month old and Borowske and his wife have a 2-1/2-year-old and just welcomed a newborn. In addition, both have full-time jobs. Borowske is a equipment operator for Ramsey County and Anderson works at 3M in international business. “We want to introduce people to
the sport. That is why we started, because we loved doing it so much,” Anderson said. There is an additional benefit, he noted: B.A Bowfishing targets rough fish, mainly carp, but also bullheads, suckers, dogfish, gar and more. “Carp eat the eggs of game fish and stir up the bottom. They have no predators once they reach adult age, which only takes one year. The DNR nets rough fish to reduce the populations, so this works hand in hand,” Anderson explained. After they are caught, the rough fish are picked up by someone who uses them for feeding his pigs and for fertilizer. SEE BOWFISHING, PAGE 11
“0% ng ci Finanable” Avail
SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Nik Andersion (left), of Hugo, and Ben Borowske, of Stacy, founded their business B.A Bowfishing Guide Service around two years ago in hopes of introducing their hobby to more people.
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Centennial entertains on Ride Your Bike to School Day
DEE ANN SIBLEY I SUBMITTED
Rudolph, Santa and his Elf won second place in their attempt to find a creative way to ride to school.
DEE ANN SIBLEY I SUBMITTED
Centennial physics teacher Jon Anderson arrives to work in style Friday, May 19. He has been riding unicycles for 35 years. He serves as National Honor Society adviser, which sponsors a Dilly Bar giveaway for students who ride their wheels to school on National Ride Your Bike to School Day.
DEE ANN SIBLEY I SUBMITTED
(From left:) Nick Foreman, Zack Eicher and Charles Sylvester take their 20th-century chariot to Centennial High School (CHS) on Friday, May 19. They won first place for the most creative entrance, sponsored by the National Honor Society.
DEE ANN SIBLEY I SUBMITTED
Shea Erlandson took third place for her mode of transportation on National Ride Your Bike to School Day. All students who rode their wheels on Friday received a Dilly Bar from the National Honor Society.
Rice Lake Elementary Passion Projects
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Fourth-grade student Avery Lubo presents her project, “What’s changing about Lake Superior?” to her class. SUBMITTED
Third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students in the Odyssey program at Rice Lake Elementary explored their passion and created projects. Students in the gifted program presented their projects to classmates and the public Friday, May 19. Students chose a passion to research and created a visual way to share it, including slidePodiatrist– shows, websites, poster boards and interactive Foot Specialist games. Passions included composting, avoiding smoking and steroid use, animal testing, Dr. Christopher Phillips endangered animals in Minnesota and fishing Medical and Surgical line entanglement of animals.
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Student Grace Vu shares her passion, “Education in Thailand,” which involves collecting school supplies and sending them to a school she visited. She created a website to educate others on the topic.
Management of the Foot and Ankle Sports Medicine
Treatment of Adults and Children with Foot Conditions
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651-426-3995 www.WhiteBearFootAndAnkleClinic.com
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Fourth-grade student Josh Magnuson presents his project, “Ways to stop smoking,” to his class.
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Lino council censures member following Facebook post BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The City Council took action to both express “severe disapproval” and offer council members an opportunity to go on record with their thoughts at its meeting May 22 regarding a recent incident involving a council member. Earlier this month Councilwoman Melissa Maher received a lot of attention after posting a comment on Congressman Tom Emmer's Facebook page. She has now publicly apologized to Emmer and his staff, council members and residents of Lino Lakes. However, Mayor Jeff Reinert wanted to take an official action during a council meeting. “I've been struggling with what to do on this … I've had lot of people contacting me and I don't feel comfortable not saying anything,” he said. “This is something that you just can't overlook, otherwise it gives permission to others to act out in this way.” The council approved a resolution censuring Maher for her comments. “By definition, censure is expressing
severe disapproval of someone or something typically in a formal statement. It is also an opportunity for the rest of the council to go on record with their feelings about this,” Reinert explained. “Me personally, I wanted to go on record to say I don't agree with (the comment). It embarrassed the city and it embarrassed the council.” Maher said she was in full support of the council's action. “I spent the last week telling people how sincerely sorry I am. I am fully supportive of the council taking this action and I am in favor of doing whatever we need to do in order to move forward,” she said. “I have no issue with the council giving their say. Nothing the council does is something I am going to take personally.” Councilman Bill Kusterman shared his thoughts. “We take this job very seriously, this is a vocation. When we sign up to do this job, we agree that we will be representatives of the city, not only in this building, but at home,” Kusterman said. “Words really matter. I was going back through some of the words that were expressed when Melissa ran and she said her
experience working with people who don't agree with her and her training in mediation would help when the council has disagreements … Those words helped her get elected.” He added, “The point is, we have a responsibility to the city here, and when we are sitting at home, to make the city look good and to do right for our city. I understand that (Councilwoman Maher) is remorseful, but at the end of the day we are always on duty.” Resident Kelly Gunderson, who previously served on the Charter Commission with Maher, spoke in support of Maher and the city. “I want to commend not only Maher, but the city staff, Mayor Reinert, city administrator and council members for how you reacted to it,” she said. Gunderson explained she was up late the evening of the incident and saw Maher's comments on Facebook shortly after they were posted. “I snap reacted. I called her out as a council member and told her her comments were more than inappropriate for a council member to be speaking to another public official in that manner. Within a couple hours I saw that she
had responded and completely owned up to a ‘total lapse of judgement,’ her words.” During the open mike portion of the meeting, resident John DeHaven shared his thoughts. “We have 20,000 members in this community and then we have a council lady step out of bounds, get on her computer, push a button, send it nationwide and then the police department in Washington, D.C. in charge of terrorists gets ahold of it,” he said. “It's a very embarrassing thing for the city. I thought you had class, but I guess I am wrong. If you have any class left, resign.” Gunderson added, “I saw consistently she was very apologetic and very remorseful, but her social media skills were lacking.” Gunderson and Maher agreed to meet up and had multiple conversations about the incident, social media and how to make the situation right. “I want to commend her for trying her best to deal with the situation,” she said. Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
Cause of fatal helicopter crash in Lino Lakes revealed BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
LINO LAKES — A pilot's “low helicopter experience” probably caused a helicopter crash that killed two adults in 2016, according to the the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The crash occurred Oct. 6 in the area of Sunset
KSTP | SUBMITTED
The scene after a helicopter crashed around 5:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 6 in a field near the area of Sunset Avenue and Main Street/County Road 14 in Lino Lakes. Two people have been confirmed dead.
Avenue and County Road 14/Main Street and killed the pilot, Matthew Hayes, 48, of Minneapolis, and passenger Deborah Smith, 47, of Blaine. The accident flight was the pilot's third flight of the day, but before that day he had not flown a helicopter in nearly a year. Following a full investigation, on May 16 the NTSB released its fi nal report on the accident. Investigators concluded the pilot's inexperience may have contributed to the crash and the probable cause was the separation of the main rotor assembly due to mast bumping. Mast bumping is contact between an inner part of a main rotor blade or a rotor hub and the main rotor drive shaft, or mast. “The pilot had accumulated about 15,000 flight hours in airplanes but only had about 55 hours flight time in helicopters, most of which were accumulated more than one year before the accident,” the report states. “Although the pilot had received instruction on how to avoid mast bumping, given his low helicopter experience relative to his airplane experience, it is possible that he made a large, abrupt flight control input that resulted in a low-G flight condition and led to the observed mast bumping. However, the pilot's control inputs are unknown, and the initiating event for the mast bumping could not be determined.” A low-G flight condition is where the airframe is temporarily unloaded and the pilot and airframe feel temporarily weightless because the aircraft is in a free fall, or decelerating vertically at the top of a climb. Due to the extensive damage to the wreckage,
only a limited examination could be conducted. However, the report states that no mechanical malfunctions were found that would have interrupted normal operation. The report includes multiple witness statements. One witness stated he saw the helicopter “rocking back and forth before it spun sideways and a bunch of parts departed the airframe.” Other witnesses reported hearing a “clunk” and “pop” sound. Another witness said “the helicopter dropped out of the sky.” Another witness saw the main rotor blades seize and snap off, and the tail rotor leave the helicopter. For the full report, visit the NTSB aviation accident database at https://www.ntsb.gov/_ layouts/ntsb.aviation/index.aspx. Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
Lino Lakes
$179,900 Nice townhome! Great location! 3 Bedrooms on one level. Walkout to greenery and open space. Take a look today!
Visual tour available at
Ron Mikolai Home Team
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651-483-2001
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QUAD AREA EVENTS QUAD AREA CHAMBER Tuesday, June 6 OF COMMERCE ANNUAL Where: Hidden Spring MUSIC ON THE LAKE MEMBERSHIP DRIVE Park, 1601 LaMotte When: 7-8:30 p.m. LUNCHEON Drive, Centerville Thursday, June 15
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, June 1 Where: Don Julio’s, 701 Apollo Dr., Lino Lakes Details: All members of the business community are welcome. Guest speakers from the Hugo Business Association and the Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. $10/chamber members; $15/non-members. Contact: quadchamber.org
PARENT’S NIGHT OUT
When: 4-8 p.m. Saturday, June 3 & 17 Where: Lino Lakes YMCA, 7690 Village Dr. Details: Childcare and activities provided so parents can enjoy an afternoon/evening out. $25 or $20/Y members; or see early bird pricing specials. Registration required. Contact: 651-795-9622 or ymcatwincities.org/ locations/lino_lakes_ ymca
Details: The Dirty Shorts Brass Band plays New Orleans Style Brass music. Contact: 651-429-3232 or www.centervillemn. com
CENTERVILLE ANNUAL RECYCLING AND GARAGE SALE DAYS
When: Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10 Where: Throughout Centerville Details: Maps of available locally. Contact: www. centervillemn.com
BOOKAWOCKY
When: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 10 Where: Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines Details: Summer reading kick-off party includes games, crafts, photo ops and information about the summer reading program. Contact: 763-324-1540 or anokacounty.us
TEENCLUB
When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, June 5 Where: Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines Details: Teens can enjoy trivia, games and crafts. Free and no registration necessary. Contact: 763-324-1540 or anokacounty.us
INCREDIBLE INSECTS
When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 10 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Explore the world of insects through a hunt and a craft. All ages. $5/adult; $3/child; registration required. Contact: 651-429-8007 or anokacountyparks. com
Where: Golden Lake Park, 67 West Golden Lake Rd., Circle Pines Details: Free concert featuring 50+ member Centennial Community Band. Contact: ci.circlepines.mn.us
FRIDAY EVENING PADDLE
When: 7-9 p.m. Friday, June 16 & 30 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Leisurely paddle on George Watch Lake. Canoes, kayaks and instruction provided. Families welcome, no experience necessary. $5/person, registration required.
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, June 21 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Adults 50+ can bring a lunch and learn about the topic of Forest Ecology. Free; no registration required. Contact: 651-429-8007; anokacountyparks.com
Ongoing
Kite Day WHEN: 10:30-11:30 am Saturday,
DETAILS: Kick off the start of
June 3
WHERE: Rice Lake Elementary
summer with a morning of kiteflying fun. Free kites while supplies last.
School east side fields, 575 Birch St., Lino Lakes
CONTACT: 651-982-2440 or www. ci.lino-lakes.mn.us
tration required. Closed Thanksgiving Day.
500 CARDS
When: 7 p.m. Mondays Where: Lino Lakes Senior Center, 1189 Main St. Details: Seniors can play 500. Open to anyone. Contact: 651-982-2440 or ci.lino-lakes.mn.us
COFFEE AND CONVERSATIONS
3. Trail advocates plan bike ride around White Bear Lake. White Bear Press > News
When: 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays in June Where: Alexandra House, Blaine Details: Weekly educational group for women who have experienced domestic BABY STORYTIME When: 10:15-10:45 a.m. or sexual violence to chat and gain life Tuesdays skills education. Call to Where: Centennial register. Library, 100 Civic Contact: 763-656-1366 Heights Cir., Circle Pines Details: Stories, songs and fingerplays for MINNESOTA TOPS children birth-24 months CHAPTER 1126 LINO and a caregiver. LAKES Contact: 763-717-3294 When: 8:30-10 a.m. or anokacountylibrary. Thursdays org Where: St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Room 23, 171 Elm St., Lino TODDLER STORYTIME Lakes When: 11-11:30 a.m. Details: Lose weight Tuesdays with portion control. Where: Centennial Local chapter of TOPS Library, 100 Civic Heights Cir., Circle Pines (Take Off Pounds Details: Stories, songs Sensibly) invites men and women to weekly and fingerplays for meetings. children ages 2-3 and a Contact: 651-483-6340 caregiver. Contact: 763-717-3294 or anokacountylibrary. MINNESOTA TOPS org CHAPTER 1722
4. From St. Odillia’s to the NFL? Shoreview native getting his shot. Shoreview Press > Sports
FAMILY STORYTIME
CRIBBAGE
When: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 6 and 1st Tuesday of the month Where: Lino Lakes Senior Center, 1189 Main St. Details: Seniors can play cribbage. Call to join the group. Contact: 651-982-2440 or ci.lino-lakes.mn.us
CENTERVILLE MUSIC IN THE PARK When: 6:30-9 p.m.
NORDIC WALKING
When: 5-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 14 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Learn how a simple walk can be a full body workout. Ages 15+. $5/person; registration required. Contact: 651-429-8007 or anokacountyparks. com
Top 5 at PressPubs.com: Week of May 21 - 27, 2017
Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories
1. Cause of fatal helicopter crash in Lino Lakes revealed. Quad Community Press > News 2. ‘Creativity is not a hobby but a lifestyle’. The Citizen > News (Archive Story)
5. Baseball: Walk-off homer caps Century’s drive to another region crown and nationals trip. White Bear Press > Sports 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.
LEXINGTON
When: 10:15-10:45 a.m. and 11-11:30 a.m. Thursdays Where: Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Cir., Circle Pines Details: Stories, songs and fingerplays for children of all ages and a caregiver. No regis-
FILE | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
When: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesdays Where: Lexington City Hall, community room, 9180 Lexington Ave. N. Details: Lose weight with portion control. Local chapter of TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) invites men
and women to weekly meetings. Contact: 763-780-8270
NEIGHBORHOODS NEARBY “10-MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL”
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, June 1 & 8; 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 2 & 9; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 3 & 10; 2 p.m. Sunday, June 4 & 11 Where: Lakeshore Players Theater, 4820 Stewart Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Novice and published playwrights worldwide submit new works; 10 are chosen to be performed by actors from across the Twin Cities. Contact: 651-4295674 or www.lakeshore players.com
NORTHEAST RESIDENCE ANNUAL FUNDRAISING DINNER
When: 6 p.m. Friday, June 2 Where: Jimmy’s Event Center, Vadnais Heights Details: Dinner and auction to benefit children and adults with developmental disabilities. Contact: 651-765-0217 or www.nerinc.org
WOMEN’S OUTDOOR EXPO AND BESA OPEN HOUSE When: 10 a.m.
Saturday, June 3 Where: Bald Eagle Sportsmen’s Association, Hugo Details: Sample a variety of classes. Activities include target shooting, archery, hunting and fishing techniques and more. Concessions available. Contact: womenhfs. org
HISTORIC COURTHOUSE 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 3 Where: Washington County Historic Courthouse, 101 W. Pine St., Stillwater Details: Celebration includes Civil War reenactors and exhibit, time capsule dedication ceremony, $1 hot dogs, old-fashioned candy, and picnicking on the lawn. Contact: 651-4308243 or steven.hart@ co.washington.mn.us
HMONG-LAO FRIENDSHIP PLAY
When: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, June 3 Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave. Details: Comedyturned- musical about playwrights, foodies, and real-life BFFs May Lee-Yang (a Hmong refugee) and Saymoukda Duangphouxay Vongsay (a Lao refugee) as they hack their way through stories about refugee
MAY 30, 2017
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McCracken on using a GPS unit to fi nd caches. Contact: 651-433-0500 or www.dnr.state.mn.us
YELLOWSTONE TRAIL HERITAGE DAY
When: June 10 Where: Lakefront Park, Hudson, WI Details: Celebration of the fi rst transcontinental road includes numerous events and activities throughout downtown Hudson, WI. Contact: www. hudsonwi.org
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 11 Where: Village Sports Bar, 3600 Hoffman Rd., White Bear Lake Details: Hike residential areas, woods and paved paths. Hike is approx.. 5 miles and lasts 1½-2 hours. Contact: 651-426-8593 or stpaulhike.org FILE | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Hugo Good Neighbor Days WHEN: Thursday-Sunday, June 8-11 WHERE: Mostly at Lions Park in
entertainment, games, carnival, airplane rides, food, teen dance, color run and parade.
Hugo
CONTACT: 651-762-6300 DETAILS: Annual festival featuring
life, American pop culture, and empowering their brethren through the Hot Asian Man project. Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org
Details: Admire vintage and hot rod cars, food vendors, live music (6 to 8 p.m.), free festivities. Contact: discover stillwater.com
ARTS IN THE PARK/ FARMERS MARKET, FOREST LAKE
THE STEVE SIMMONS MEMORIAL MOSQUITOLAND CLASSIC TOC
When: 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays, June 6-Aug. 29; Farmer’s Market only continues through Sept. 26 Where: Lakeside Park, Forest Lake Details: Concert series, crafts and farmer’s market Contact: 651-209-9723 or www.forestlakeparks. net
SHOREVIEW FARMERS MARKET
When: 3-7 p.m. Tuesdays, June 6-Sept. 12; 3-6 p.m. Sept. 19-Oct. 24 Where: Shoreview Community Center lower level parking lot and pavilion, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: Check out new amenities, weekly themes and live entertainment Contact: www. shoreviewcommunity center.com
When: June 7-11 Where: Community Park, Vadnais Heights; McKnight Fields, North St. Paul, Pioneer Park, Little Canada Details: Joint qualifying tournament for Senior Softball USA and SPA. Welcome parties at Jimmy’s Food and Drink. Contact: senior softball.com
required. Contact: jonfrancis foundation.org
COLOR ME FABULOUS 5K
When: 9 a.m. Saturday, June 10 Where: Lion’s Park, 5524 Upper 146th St. N., Hugo Details: All ages 5K $30; Kids Dash for ages 8 and under $15. Includes t-shirt is registered by June 5. Race day registration $50. Bring a non-perishable food item to support the Hugo Food Shelf and receive a free color powder packet. Contact: runsignup. com/race/mn/hugo/ flipsgymnasticscolor mefabulous
When: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday, June 9 and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 10 Where: Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W. Broadway Ave. Details: Proceeds support the Auxiliary’s Veteran’s projects. Contact: 651-439-2267
CAMP JON
When: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 10 Where: William CRUISIN’ ON THE CROIX O’Brien State Park, HOT ROD & VINTAGE CAR SHOW Marine on St. Croix Details: Free, handsWhen: 3-8 p.m. Wednesdays, June 7 & 21; on wilderness health and July 12 & 19; Aug. 2, 16 & safety training camp for all ages and families, 30; Sept. 13 led by the Jon Francis Where: Lowell Park, Foundation. Registration downtown Stillwater
When: 1:30-2:15 p.m. Tuesday, June 13 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Local author Tracy Nelson Maurer discusses her new book, ‘Noah Webster’s Fighting Words’. For children 8-12. Registration required. Contact: 651-275-7300 or co.washington.mn.us
FOR WHAT IT’S WORTH: AN ANTIQUE APPRAISAL EVENT WITH MARK MORAN
When: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 13 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Appraiser of antiques and fine art will examine and appraise antiques and collectibles. Registration required. Contact: 651-275-7300 or co.washington.mn.us
CONCERT IN THE COMMONS
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, June 10 Where: Warner Nature Center, 15375 Norell Ave. N, Marine on St. Croix Details: Learn how to look for and identify dragonflies, catch and handle them, and encourage them to visit your backyard. All ages. Free; registration required. Contact: 651-4332427 ext. 10 or www. warnernaturecenter.org
When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 14, 21 & 28 Where: Shoreview Commons, next to Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: Open-air concerts featuring The Backyard Band on June 14, Blue Groove Bluegrass on June 21 and Andrew Walesch & Trio on June 28. Bring blanket or chair. Concessions. Contact: 651-490-4700 or shoreviewmn.gov
GEOCACHING 101
SPAGHETTI DINNER
DRAGONFLY BIOBLITZ
16 HOUR RUMMAGE SALE
NOAH WEBSTER’S FIGHTING WORDS
When: 10:30 a.m.noon, Saturday, June 10 Where: William O’Brien State Park, Cty Hwy 95, Marine on St. Croix Details: Expert Andy
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, June 15 Where: Hugo American Legion, 5383 140th St. N. Details: All-youcan-eat spaghetti. $8/
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
adults; $4 children under 12. Fundraiser for the Legion. Contact: 651-255-1432 or hugoamericanlegion. com
MARKETFEST
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays June 15- July 27 Where: Downtown White Bear Lake Details: Free family festival includes more than 150 retail and food vendors, live music, children’s activities, farmers market, classic car show. Contact: www. marketfest.org
SENIOR DANCE
When: 1-4 p.m. Friday, June 16 Where: Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W. Broadway Details: Enjoy mature music by Jerry Peltier and his Sweet Memories dance band. Held the 3rd Friday of every month. $6/person includes lunch. Cash bar. Public welcome. Contact: 651-464-2600
KICKOFF: WHITE BEAR LAKE FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Fridays, June 16 through Oct. Where: Washington Ave. and 4th St., downtown White Bear Lake Details: Produce includes organic produce, natural meats and cheeses, honey, syrup, baked goods, plants and flowers. Contact: 651-747-3650 or www.whitebearlake. org
MANITOU DAYS GRAND PARADE AND BEACH DANCE
When: Parade starts at 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 16. Dance 8-11 p.m., Memorial Beach. Details: Parade route begins downtown and travels along Lake Ave. Rain or shine. Beach dance to follow at Memorial Beach with live music. Contact: www. manitoudays.com or www.explorewhitebear. com
KIDS-MAKESCULPTURE WORKSHOPS
When: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 17
7
Where: Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St. Croix Trail, Franconia Details: Students ages 4-16 create sculptures with assistance of Franconia staff and artists. $40; registration required. Contact: 651-257-6668 or kidsmakesculpture@ franconia.org
NORTH STAR GRAND PRIX BICYCLE RACE FINALE
When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, June 18 Where: Event ends at Lowell Park in Stillwater. Details: 5-day professional cycling race draws racers from around the country. Racers climb Chilkoot Hill, the steepest grade in American racing. Events include bike and fitness expos, stunt riders, music, entertainment, kids fun race, Jumbotron viewing. Contact: www.north starbicyclefestival.com
‘WHAT’S HAPPENING’ CALENDAR GUIDELINES Anyone in the community may send us news of an upcoming local event. The calendar is reserved for secular community events in or adjacent to Press Publication’s coverage area. Priority is given to free or affordable events that are likely to appeal to a broad audience. Publication of events is subject to editorial discretion. Due to space limitations, there is no guarantee whether, when or for how long submissions will be published. Submissions are subject to editing. Please include date, time, location, cost, brief details, and contact information for each event submission. Submission deadline is Wednesday prior to the following weeks’ publication. Call 651-4071226 with questions. Online: www. presspubs.com/calendar Email: calendar@ presspubs.com Mail: Press Publications Attn: Calendar 4779 Bloom Ave. White Bear Lake, MN 55110
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Softball adapts to special needs students BY PAT ZEITNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
CIRCLE PINES—Ask not what your team can do for you. Ask what you can do for your team. Will Kastenmeier, a junior in the special needs program at Centennial High School, is the catcher for a second year on his adapted softball team. He has been with the team for four years. Head Coach Deb Kline said Kastenmeier is a good fit for the position. “He focuses real well (behind the plate). He does a great job, he’s a good catcher,” she said. Kastenmeier is also known for his speed at running the bases. “He puts on quite a show, I love it,” Kline added. Students with special needs have the opportunity to play softball, soccer and floor hockey at Centennial through the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL). The league is open to grades seven through 12, and has 18 teams in the metro area, with some teams made up of players from neighboring schools. Centennial partners with Spring Lake Park High School, team name “North Suburban,” and has 23 players on this year’s roster. The North Suburban Cougars compete with eight of the 18 teams, traveling as near as Mounds View and as far as Buffalo. Their season runs early April through late May, ending with a tournament in
PAT ZEITNER I SUBMITTED
The 2017 defending champion North Suburban Cougars adapted softball team finished its regular season Monday, May 22. The state tournament is a bracket event taking place June 2-3 at Coon Rapids High School. (From left, front row:) Alliah Cummings, Jenna Warren, Kaitlyn Bruun, Will Kastenmeier, Hunter Hassel, Christina Bishop, Amanda Athman; (Middle row:) Assistant Coach Erik Aus, Hannah Koran, Nick Reichenbacher, Nick Koran, Will Ventrelli, Emily McClennan, Nikoli Marr, Garrett Keen, Brandie Johnson, Student Manager Lily Frederickson; (Top row:) Para Becky Ploen, Student Manager Dmitry Bengtson, Austin Motzko, Dava Saice, Jonathan Caliendo, Kevin Beaupre, Josh Hamann, Anthony Bengtson, Kenzie O’Keefe, Coach Deb Kline, Assistant Coach Dave Thomas; Not pictured: Breanna Downwind
early June. The North Suburban Cougars are the 2017 defending champions. The National Federation of State High School Associations created rules for MSHSL adapted play, which include the playing of all games indoors, usually on basketball courts with bases and foul lines marked with tape. Bunting and sliding are not allowed. A maximum of five runs per half inning are allowed to prevent a team from overwhelming its opponent. This limit is lifted during the
fifth, sixth and seventh innings to allow for catching up from behind. The ballplayers use a wiffle ball. A catcher’s mask is mandatory, a fielder’s mitt is optional. Most adjustments are in the sake of safety and ensuring everyone has fun. Team captains are given extra responsibility, as they may approach an umpire with their coach on a questionable call. Kevin Beaupre, Anthony Bengtson, Jonathan Caliendo and Josh Hamann are team captains for North Suburban.
Seniors Bengtson, Kaitlyn Bruun and Nick Koran graduate from the team this year. Kline will have several seniors next year to look at for team captain positions. “Will has come a long way from four years ago. Everybody has a different skill level. We work to improve on those,” she noted. Kline has coached the Cougars for 23 years. She has a firm insight on the benefits a student with special needs receives when they join a sports team. “This really gets kids out there. They meet friends, they hang out,
they’re building relationships. It’s a great opportunity for the parents to meet other parents,” she emphasized. Sports keep the kids active and off video games. Kastenmeier’s parents Keith and Shelly couldn’t agree more, as they have supported all their children in team sports. “Will loves just hanging with the kids. All his other siblings have played sports, so he’s hung out with their teammates,” Shelly said. Children with special needs embrace their sports teams with a fierce passion. “It opens a world to them. A world of friendship, of teamwork, of bonding, of fun and competitiveness. More than that, it shows parents, friends and family who are watching the games how much fun a sport can be in developing relationships and communication with the outside world,” Keith stated. Some things in life represent a universal language. Playing softball does not require one to speak. “It enables a child who doesn’t have verbal skills to be able to connect. He connects with the world through action and smiles, and through this teamwork it gives him connectivity that he doesn’t have on a normal basis,” Keith added. Kastenmeier may not be able to talk, but he can throw the ball, catch the ball and hit the ball. And do it all with a smile as big as a grand slam.
The ‘Bread and Butter’ chip shot you’ll choose a pitch shot. The club selection does make a difference. I use a 56 degree sand wedge to hit this shot, but if I am faced with a deep uphill green in front of me I will use my gap wedge (50 degrees). Some choose a pitching wedge also. There are a few companies that are finally starting to make “easy wedges” again. Thank goodness, as they really make it easier. Cleveland came out with the Smart Sole wedge this year in a pitching (58 degrees) and chipping (42 degrees) version. I bought them for my clients to see if it makes these shots easier for them and hands down it did. You can buy these at 2nd Swing Golf
Raelyn Nyren Centennial softball s chosen by press staf *Athlete f
Athlete
of the
Week*
In last weeks’ column, I discussed the set up for the basic chip shot. Let me be clear on this, I think most poor greenside shots are due to how players set up to the ball. I teach this shot differently than a lot of other teachers, so if you are inconsistent with your short shots around the green, give this a try. I’m often asked what’s the difference between a chip and a pitch shot. The chip is more roll than air, and a pitch is more air than roll. The chip is the shot you want to hit when you have fairly flat land between you and your target. You may have also heard it referred to as a bump and run. If you have to go over something (mounds, bunkers) then
Raelyn Nyren, Centennial senior second baseman, missed the first eight games with an injury and the Cougars were 2-6, but they’re 8-4 since she got back in the lineup and coach Angie Ryan said Nyren is a big reason for that. She sparked a 9-1 win over Irondale in the playoff opener this week, going 2-for-2 with a walk, two RBI and three runs. She will play in the coaches association all-star games in June and has signed with University of Toledo. Minnesota’s #1 Volume Toyota Dealer! Per Toyota Motor Sale USA 2017
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or online through Cleveland Golf. The basic chip shot is nothing more than the hitting area of a full swing. The only modifications are a narrower stance and your weight stays on Tee Time your left (target) side for the entire shot. Betsy What’s different about this method vs. what Larey you’ve been taught in the past is the swing is actually made with a pivot instead of an arm swing. Here’s the set up: feet about 4 inches apart, stance slightly closed (right foot back) with your weight on your left side. Ball position is the middle of your stance with your hands slightly in front of the ball with level shoulders. The easiest way to level your shoulders is to keep your left elbow bent and soft. If you’re using a sand wedge, make sure the heel is off the ground. For the swing, the grip end of the club pretty much stays in place while the clubhead is set with the hands and right elbow. You should have a slight pivot when staring the backswing, but your hands should never pass your right leg. The downswing starts with a pivot of your lower body first, with shoulders trailing. The clubhead will naturally release at the bottom of the swing and is done by allowing your right elbow to lengthen through impact. With the proper set up this happens automatically, which makes this shot so much easier to hit. You maintain the bend in your right wrist though and after impact, and allow
your left elbow to slide along the left side of your body. The lower body pivots around your left leg, and I feel as if my right knee is “kissing” my left knee. At the end of the shot, I want to feel as if the butt of the club is in my left pocket. At the finish, you want to pivot all the way through to your left side. The key is to make sure your hands are passive through the stroke and stay close to your sides for the entire swing. Remember, the swing is made by the body pivot, not your arms. To hit a low chip, you will rotate your forearms and keep a bowed left wrist. You should feel as if the clubface stays closed on the backswing. I use this shot if I am 50 to 75 yards away from the green. This is the classic bump and run shot. My pivot speed will increase to adjust for the increased distance. The newer course designs, with elevated and undulated greens have taken this shot out of play which I think is a shame. But for many courses in our area this is a much better alternative than trying to hit a ¼ to ½ high lofted pitch shot. Next week I’ll go into the pitch shot and variations on the “touch” shots you need in your bag to get the ball close to the hole. Betsy Larey is an LPGA Teaching Professional who has been working wth adults and juniors for over 20 years. She is the Girls Golf Coach at White Bear Lake and has taught at the PGA Tour Academy in St. Augustine, FL. She is available for lessons at Keller Golf Course in St. Paul and Shadow Ridge in Lino Lakes. You can reach her directly at bestylareygolf@ gmail.com or 651-470-2297.
MAY 30, 2017
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9
LEGION: Recognizes officer and firefighter for ‘maintaining law and order’ FROM PAGE 1
every day,” said American Legion Post Cdr. Paul Lesch. Each year the American Legion recognizes local police officers and fi refighters. The candidates then have the chance to compete at the state and, potentially, at the national level.
Matt Paulson Paulson grew up in Lino Lakes and graduated from Centennial in 2005. He then attended the University of North Dakota for two years where he studied commercial aviation and obtained a pilot's license. “Due to the job market and the crash in 2007, unfortunately the job outlook didn't look real hot for me. I looked at what I was doing and decided I didn't want to eat mac and cheese and live out of an apartment with six different people in it,” he said. Over Christmas break, Paulson went on a ride along with Officer Adam Halverson and was hooked. “I found out that I really liked law enforcement. My mom looked at me sideways and asked, ‘Are you sure
this is what you want to do?’ and I said yes.” Paulson started with Lino Lakes as a community service officer in 2007 and two years later was promoted to an officer. A few years ago he became a training officer. “It allows me to train the newer officers and give them insight about what they are going to face in the future. It is rewarding to train them and see them develop as an officer and really get a grasp of things and fi nd their passion in law enforcement,” he said. Paulson was surprised at being selected for the honor. “I was honored to receive the award and I am humbled by it. I just show up every day, willing to give 100 percent,” he said. “There are many officers who are deserving of the award. Without the help of my partners, I wouldn't be where I am today. There are a lot of mentors who have been around longer than I have, who shaped me into who I am today.” Public Safety Director John Swenson said, “Officer Paulson has distinguished himself as a driven and dedicated public servant in all facets
of his professional life. He is dedicated to the Lino Lakes community and is continuously looking for ways to make a positive impact. The Lino Lakes Public Safety Department is a better organization as a result of his hard work and dedication.”
Mark Hokkanen Hokkanen grew up in Blaine and graduated from Spring Lake Park in 1989. He fi rst became interested in fi refighting when his wife had eclampsia, a rare but serious condition during pregnancy where high blood pressure leads to seizures. “I happened to be home when my wife had a seizure. I called 911 and it impressed upon me all of the people that showed up to help, that it was a pretty cool thing to be doing as a career,” he said. “I decided to pick up fi refighting to try to make a difference, just like all of those people did that showed up that day for me.” Before starting with Lino Lakes in May of 2016, Hokkanen was a fi refighter with Spring Lake Park Fire Department for around 11 years, both as a volunteer fi re suppression fi refighter and a public educator.
Hokkanen was promoted to lieutenant in January. His hobby is fi refighting, but his career is in information technology for Boston Scientific. “It is being there for people potentially on the worst day of their lives. If you don't do that, how often are you given that opportunity? It is almost never,” he said. “It is really to try to make a difference in the community and the potential for being there is why I keep doing it.” Hokkanen was also surprised by the nomination. “It was pretty sobering. I know all the other people on my department and there are a lot of great people here, so to be selected among that group is a quite an honor,” he said. “Lt. Hokkanen has demonstrated throughout his life dedication to the fi re service. He is an incredible asset for our organization and is a key component in our organization's development,” Swenson said. Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
Circle Pines acts on animal feeding ordinance BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
CIRCLE PINES — Residents in Circle Pines will soon have more restrictions on what types of wildlife they can feed within city limits. The City Council approved the fi rst reading of an amendment to the ordinance (No. 155) regulating the feeding of wildlife at its meeting on May 23. The subject was fi rst brought up by a resident, Jeff Klein, who visited the council May 9 to express his concern and frustration with a neighbor who feeds deer. “The problem I have is one of my neighbors is feeding (deer) and not just feeding: there is a pile of corn, cabbage, carrots, lettuce. The pile was quite impressive; it looked like an Old Country Buffet out there,” he said. “Over the years I've had to learn to adapt my planting and it hasn't been a problem. I would lose a hosta or two and a couple tulips, but weeks ago I lost 15 hostas and 12 tulips.” Councilmen Matt Percy and Mike Schweigert agreed that it would be a good idea for the council to amend the existing ordinance. Mayor Dave Bartholomay directed City Administrator
Patrick Antonen to do some research into existing ordinances in neighboring towns. The ordinance is now modeled after Blaine's ordinance, which was approved in March. Previously, the city's ordinance only specified that no person shall place feed for waterfowl on public or private property anywhere within the city, and that any food placed for birds or other animals must be placed in a feeder inaccessible to waterfowl. The ordinance now reads, “No person shall feed or allow the feeding of wild or feral animals or of small mammals within the city.” “This will give our Centennial Lakes Police Department the ability to actually do something about the intentional feeding of wildlife,” Antonen said. The ordinance defi nes feeding as meaning any grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, salt licks or any other food that could attract wild animals. The ordinance does not apply to the feeding of birds in bird feeders or similar structures, however, bird
feeders must be at a “sufficient” height or designed to prevent access by wild animals. Under the ordinance, living food sources such as trees and other live vegetation is not considered food for wild animals. Schweigert wanted to clarify what animals the ordinance pertained to; Antonen explained it includes all animals except wild birds, such as deer, squirrels, rabbits, bears, raccoons, etc. An audience member asked the council if raccoons breaking into trash cans would be considered feeding of wild animals. Percy said, “Not unless you tip the can over, spread it out over your yard and leave it there for days.” The council will consider the second reading of the ordinance at its next meeting at 7 p.m. June 13 at City Hall. Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
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Lino Lakes residents want solution to culvert problems SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Residents who live along Diane Street flooded City Hall to voice their concerns with a a culvert, beavers and high water levels during the open mike portion of the City Council meeting May 22. Six residents voiced their concerns to the council. “We have a water issue going on and we've got a culvert problem … I've lived here 22 years and we've had flooding in the streets maybe a dozen times. Last time this happened we lost two 100year old oak trees because they drowned,” Doug Malsom said. Residents feel the culvert, which was replaced in 2013, is inadequate. In addition to the water levels being too high due to the recent heavy rainfall, they said beaver activity is also clogging up the culvert. Resident Lonny Eibensteiner showed the council a video of the culvert. “We have water in our basements. The new neighbor who just bought the property last fall called me and said he is tearing out all of their brand new carpet,” he said. “I took it upon myself to look at the culvert and I have a video ... It is plugged and it is plugged good because of the beaver dam. I put a stick inside that culvert and you almost need dynamite to get it out of there.” Eibensteiner added, “I've been watching the water over the past month and it keeps raising, and raising and raising.” Resident Lisa Crotty asked everyone in the audience who was from the neighborhood to
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Here is a view of the culvert in the area of Diane Street in Lino Lakes. Recently due to all of the rain and beavers plugging the culvert, residents in the neighborhood are dealing with flooding and a lot of damage.
stand up to show the number of people who are dealing with the issues. “I am not concerned for myself, it is not that bad, but I am concerned for my neighbors,” she said. “We are not in floodplain, and we don't have flood insurance. This is not okay … it is your job to take care of this before it gets this bad.” Crotty inquired about the residents wells and if the issue was going to cause
problems with drinking water. City Engineer Diane Hankee explained if the wells were up to code, which requires wells to have a 50foot separation from septic systems, there should not be an issue. Resident Susan Wienke shared her concern. “I have a dangerous dog, so we have a 6-foot fence in our backyard. The ground is so saturated that it has caused my fence
post to raise up 6-8 inches,” she said. “According to the city standards, my fence cannot have any 2-inch gaps anywhere because of the dangerous dog. My concern is it is being raised and I can't do anything about it. I am asking the city to do something to help me out. I want to make sure the police and the city won't come and fi ne me because my fence is not up to grade.”
Public Safety Director John Swenson told Wienke the department would review the matter and work with her to properly balance the problems she was having with public safety. Resident Robert Mann wanted to know who was going to help be responsible for paying for the damage. “I want to know who is going to pay for all the damage that has been done to my yard. I just re-landscaped my yard, put rows of sod in and now all my trees are under water,” he said. “It is a lot of water; my dog is swimming in it.” Resident Jackie Burgeson said she has lost a garden pit because her backyard is so mushy. Hankee explained because the culvert is part of the Anoka County and Rice Creek Watershed District system, the city will have to work in conjunction with them on any long-term solutions. In the meantime, the city has agreed to send public works staff to the site daily to check on it and keep the culvert unplugged. Public works staff are also planning to put their DNR permit to trap beavers to use and relocate the animals. Mayor Jeff Reinert added the item to the agenda for further discussion at the council's June 5 work session and invited all of the residents to attend. He directed city staff to do more research about possible solutions and to get in touch with the county and watershed district. Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL NOTES The Lino Lakes City Council took the following action at its May 22 meeting: • Held a special presentation recognizing Police Officer of the Year Matt Paulson and Firefighter of the Year Mark Hokkanen, awarded by American Legion Post 566. The council
also recognized Melissa Christensen for her promotion to sergeant of the police division, Brian Finke for his promotion to fi re lieutenant and Andy Bennett for 20 years of service as a reserve officer. • Approved the consent agenda, which
included an extension of time for the recording of the final plat of St. Clair Estates, a permit for consumer fi reworks sales at Super Target and a solicitor/peddler license for Edward Jones. Jamie Jensen of St. Clair Land Company requested a 90-day extension for recording the final plat. Developers are required to record the plat within 90 days of approval, otherwise it is considered void unless the council grants an extension. The deadline, which was May 28, is now extended to Aug. 26. • Approved a joint powers agreement between the city and Anoka County for assessment services. The current five-year agreement (2013-18) was adopted in 2012. At that time city staff looked into other options, including hiring a full-time assessor. Eventually, it was determined use of county assessor services was the best option. City Administrator Jeff Karlson said that is still the case today. The new contract runs from 2019-2023. “In my opinion this is a no-brainer for the city. The technological advances we can take advantage of and the savings make it a great deal. If in fact two or three years in we decide we don't like it, we have the opportunity to opt out. I see nothing but up side,” Councilman Bill Kusterman said. • Appointed Joseph Widing to the community development intern position. His starting salary is $12/hour at 32 hours a week. Karlson said, “It's been a good program for us and
good exposure for the kids.” Reinert agreed, “Over the years we have had this program for the city, the interns have been trained very well and are placed in community development jobs right after they leave.” • Approved a contract with National Financial Partners for the city's benefit broker services. The city sent out request for proposals in March and National Financial Partners was determined to be the lowest bidder based on services provided. The city has previously contracted with Johnson McCann for over 20 years. The switch is estimated to save the city around $2,500 annually for benefit broker services and an additional $3,500 due to the availability of free Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) valuation services. • Accepted bids and awarded a construction contract to Sunram Construction Inc. for the NorthPointe park project. The city approved plans and specifications and authorized the advertisement for bids on April 10. Only one bid was received. The council awarded the contract to Sunram Construction Inc. for $280,823. The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. June 5 in the Community Room at City Hall. The next regular meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. June 12 in the Council Chambers. Shannon Granholm
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MAY 30, 2017
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Paul Allen entertains crowd as SPIRIT Walk moves indoors BY PAT ZEITNER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The uncooperative 47-degree rainy weather moved Anoka Hennepin Credit Union's first SPIRIT Walk out of Bunker Hills Park and into the gymnasium at Blaine High School Saturday, May 20. Paul Allen, sportscaster for the Minnesota Vikings on KFAN, was supposed to address an impatient crowd as they headed off into the distance on the walk. But as the crowd gathered in the bleachers and gave him their full attention, he took charge of the moment — and the mike.
Silent auction items, doughnuts, popcorn and corporate sponsors, including Wilbur, the large pink pig mascot from Famous Dave’s BBQ, were all set aside as Allen addressed the crowd. “Here’s the deal, we have big options right now: some of them include mingling upstairs where the doughnuts are, and the vendors, chatting, hanging out, walking around here. Or we could start a fire and have a pig roast,” Allen offered to a round of laughter. According to event organizers, more than $27,000 in corporate and individual donations was raised for distribution to eight area high schools’ after-school activities.
The group that raised the most donations for its activity was the Blaine cheerleaders team, which pulled in just over $3,000. The Blaine girls basketball team brought in over $1,200. Pamela Whaley, whose daughter Bree Hare is a Blaine cheerleader, was emphatic. “This was the best fundraiser ever,” she said. “Instead of the kids having to try to sell something that somebody does not want, who’s only buying it out of guilt, (the donors) are supporting that actual team member. It was a very easy website (www.crowdrise. com/2017SpiritWalk). to use. It was fun, and I think next year will be even better,” she said.
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During the SPIRIT Walk, host Paul Allen, pictured with Wilbur, the Famous Dave mascot, has fun with the crowd. The SPIRIT Walk was pulled inside Blaine High School due to the rain that fell Saturday, May 20. Allen is the Minnesota Vikings game announcer on Sports Radio KFAN.
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(From left:) Bengalettes Dance Team representatives Morgan Steinkamp, Julia Warner, Alix Stahnke, Ellie Oberlander and Lauren Trempe turned out for the SPIRIT Walk. They raised about $275 for the event.
Blaine High School girl’s basketball coach Chris Brustuen, shown with his sons Milan (left) and Vanley, helped raise $565 from donors who called themselves Nacho Picasso and Independent Variable, among others.
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Blaine cheerleaders raised over $3,000. “Aunt Karen,” “Uncle Dion,” “Grandma Sugar” and “The best brother ever” were some of the donors listed on the website (www.crowdrise. com/2017SpiritWalk). The girls also received support from RGM Inc., Tufts Grinding Inc. and Earle M Jorgensen Metals - Blaine.
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(From left:) SPIRIT Foundation creators Diane Bacigalupo, Jim Bacigalupo, Terry Anderson and Jim Gaffney pass out carbs to the early morning walkers who skipped breakfast.
ALEXANDRA HOUSE: Suffers loss of $595,000 over next three years FROM PAGE 1
tough decisions." Connie Moore, Alexandra House executive director for 16 years, couldn't believe the news, especially because of the longstanding relationship the organization has with Greater Twin Cities United Way. “I expected that we would probably see a funding reduction, but I did not expect to be totally eliminated, or that they would eliminate Safety from Family Violence completely. It was not anticipated at all. It was a shock,” Moore said. “They have been a longtime community partner in funding services for victims of domestic violence.” Alexandra House was in its first year of a three-year Partner Agency gran. As of June 30, the funding will cease. That equates to a $595,000 funding loss over the next three years. The United Way attributes the loss of funding to more people than expected designating their contributions to a specific charitable organi-
zation, leaving less money available for United Way-directed initiatives. Despite the reductions, Caruso said, United Way will grant more than $75 million to 1,358 nonprofits in the state this year. “It is hard to quantify for us, because once you are no longer a Partner Agency with the United Way, it is harder to get designated donations. Our designated donations currently are at about $40,000 a year and that has actually decreased over the last five years,” Alexandra House Communications Marketing Director Tina Bronson explained. The significant loss of funding will impact the organization's community program services such as legal advocacy services, youth services in the six Anoka County school districts, response to hospital services and follow-up services. The grant also funded 4.5 staff positions. Moore said she is not sure what staff positions would be eliminated if funding is not secured, but her hope is that Alexandra House can raise the dollars necessary
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to keep them. “It's a huge gap. They (United Way) have been pretty secure, ongoing dollars that we've received for the work we do over many years, so that is a hard one to take.” Alexandra House is one of 16 domestic violence agencies affected by the funding cuts. Many other agencies Alexandra House relies on and refers clients to were also impacted. “We use them as a resource as well, and their loss of funding is also a concern for us,” Moore said. After-school programs, senior programs and food shelves also received funding cuts. “If you don't address the issue of domestic violence, you are missing a critical piece of the puzzle when you are talking about helping people either get out of poverty or stay out of poverty to not become homeless,” Moore explained. “Domestic violence is the third-leading cause for homelessness. We also know that women who are fleeing domestic violence situations often end up financially unable to support themselves and their families. It is a puzzle with a lot of pieces, and when some of those pieces go missing then your system breaks down.” The Minnesota Coalition for Battered Women (MCBW) is the statewide coalition of domestic violence programs with 90 member programs that provide a range of services and advocacy in all 87 counties. MCBW Executive Director Liz Richards said the Greater Twin Cities United Way funds around 21 of those programs. “So what is the impact of this loss of funding? We don't fully know. We do know that some programs are looking at having
to lay off staff, which means an elimination of a program area or a reduction in the ability to provide services,” Richards said. “Some of our programs were on cusp of starting to do really creative and innovative work, and they have to pull back from that work and shift their resources into core crisis work.” Richards added, “It is one thing if you are losing $5,000; you can try to find some ways to make up the difference, but when you are losing more than $100,000 in funding, that is a huge loss, so our programs are really scrambling.” Alexandra House representatives hope other people, businesses and foundations will step up to help fill the gap. “In order to fill that gap, we would need 200 individuals to give $100 a month, but we also know that is unrealistic to assume that there would be that many individuals to step up and make a $1,200 commitment every year,” Bronson said. The organization is looking into a broad spectrum of funding possibilities and trying to diversify its sources of revenue. The MCBW is also trying to help. “We are looking at the things we can do to collectively bring greater awareness to the work that our programs do, the impact that funding loss has on individuals and the community and really see if we can get broader support to our programs, but all of that takes time,” Richards explained. “We are looking at ways to bridge the shortterm needs and also look at long-term picture.” Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.