Quad Community Press by Press Publications

Centennial Seniors Walk at Centerville Elementary

BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER

Jennifer Lee craned her head forward, waiting for the bus to bring her daughter, Kate Lee, from school. Instead of waiting at her house, though, she stood in front of Centerville Elementary School. Kate is a graduating senior at Centennial High School. She, along with dozens of classmates, are revisiting their primary schools before they receive their diplomas on Saturday.

“It’s a happy sad, if that makes sense,” Jennifer commented. “I remember dropping my kid off at Centerville on the first day—scared to death. She’s my baby.” Thirteen years after that first day, Kate is now looking at her old classrooms one more time. Her next chapter includes heading off to the University of Minnesota Carlson School of

Management, majoring in finance and sales.

While the senior walk is a full-circle moment for Jennifer and Kate Lee, that goes double for Michelle Matthews. She graduated from Centennial High School and is now preparing for her daughter, Abigail Matthews, to graduate. Abigail wants to major in psychology and eventually become a child therapist. She plans to balance her academics with college basketball.

After 24 years of sending her children to ISD 12, Abigail’s senior walk has special meaning for Michelle. “She’s my last one. This is just the end of an era, and I can’t believe we’re here. It’s bittersweet. I’m super sad, but I’m super excited for her,” said Michelle. After a moment, Michelle began laughing, “And I’m super excited for me. I don’t

CONTRIBUTED

Minnesota State High School

Rodeo Finals rides into Hugo

BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER

This weekend, being dead broke will be a good thing. Dead Broke Arena in

is hosting the 2026 Minnesota Rodeo High School State Finals at 7 p.m., Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13. Events start at noon on Sunday, June 14.

“In the equestrian world, the term ‘broke’ used to refer to a wild horse—you train

SEE HIGH SCHOOL RODEO, PAGE 5

Lino Lakes

considers banning sale of flavored tobacco, vape products

BY MADELINE DOLBY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

LINO LAKES — At the April 27 city council meeting, Nathan N., a high school student, spoke during the public comment period and asked the council to consider adopting a city ordinance restricting the sale of flavored vape and tobacco products.

Following Nathan’s comments, the city council requested additional information regarding the potential regulation of flavored tobacco and vape products in the city. At a recent city council work session, Lino Lakes Chief of Police Curt Boehme provided more insight into what ordinance amendments would have to be made in order for this to happen.

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act was signed into law June 2009. It allowed the Food and Drug Administration

authority to regulate the manufacturing, distribution and marketing of tobacco products. This included a ban on the sale of cigarettes containing flavors other than menthol. The ban did not apply to other commercial tobacco products such as cigars, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes or vape products.

According to Boehme, in August 2020, Minnesota Statute 609.685 went into effect. The statute raised the minimum sales age for all tobacco products from 18 years old to 21 years old, but the new law did not address the sale of flavored products.

“It (the law) also decriminalized the possession, use and purchase of tobacco products for those under the age of 21,” he added. “So, it was a civil penalty that was not a fine.”

SEE FLAVORED TOBACCO BAN, PAGE 6

Minnesota High School Rodeo Queen Pearl Overby barrel races at Dead Broke Arena in Hugo

LOGAN GION | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Pictured from left are: Abigail Matthews, Michelle Matthews, Jennifer Lee and Kate Lee.

Hugo

WHAT’S HAPPENING

LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: SPIDERS

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, and the first Wednesday of the month

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

Details: Bring a lunch and learn about a local, natural or cultural history topic from a naturalist, and walk the trails.

Contact: anokacountyparks.com

INTRODUCTION TO KAYAKING

When: 2-4 p.m. Tuesday, June 16

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

Details: Learn basic strokes, safety and maneuvering. Equipment provided. Register online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com

LEARN TO STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 17

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

Details: Learn the basics and then explore on the water. Equipment provided. Register online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com

MANITOU DAYS GRAND PARADE

When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 19

Where: Begins at 2nd Street and Clark Avenue; ends at Memorial Beach, White Bear Lake Details: Floats, marching bands, local organizations and more travel through downtown and along Lake Avenue toward the beach.

Contact: manitoudays.com

BEACH DANCE

When: 8-11 p.m. Friday, June 19

Where: Memorial Beach, 4980 Lake Ave, White Bear Lake

Details: Enjoy live music by the Free & Easy Band. Food and beverages available for purchase. Admission will be charged. Contact: manitoudays.com

WHITE BEAR LAKE CLASSIC & VINTAGE BOAT SHOW

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 20

Where: Lakefront of the White Bear Lake Shopping Center, 4391 Lake Ave S. White Bear Lake

COUNTY BRIEF

FIREHOUSE FAMILY SPLASH DOWN

When: Noon-2 p.m. Sunday, June 14

Where: Lino Lakes Fire Station 2, 1709 Birch St. Details: Celebrate the start of summer with food trucks and fun for all ages. Contact: LLVIPS.org

Details: Display of classic and vintage boats-inboards, outboards, row boats and sailboats. Live fishing and “ask an expert” fisherman, as well as vendors, nautical market and food. Contact: facebook.com/WhiteBearPress

LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD SATURDAY SEW-IN

When: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, June 20

Where: Shoreview Library, 4560 Victoria St. N, Shoreview Details: Members will work on their quilting projects. All are welcome to stop by and see what they are working on. Contact: lakeshorequiltersmn.org

Blaine kicks off summer concert series June 6

The city of Blaine will kick off its Performance in the Park concert series on Saturday, June 6. Performances take place on various Tuesdays and Thursdays until the end of July at Tom Ryan Park and Aquatore Park.

The first performance will feature Run Lucy Run, beginning at 11 a.m., as part of the city’s Sizzling Summer Kickoff Celebration. Run Lucy Run is a Minneapolis based two-man cover band who showcase hits from some of the most recognized artists in the world. Following Run Lucy Run, the Tom Ryan Band is scheduled to perform at 2 p.m.

Other performances scheduled to take place at Tom Ryan Park are the Centennial Band, Brent and Shenna, The Backyard Band, The Mooners, Vinnie Rose and LP and the 45s.

At Aquatore Park, residents can catch Todd ‘N’ Tina, ACNE Magic Factory, Riffin’ Griffin, Wendy’s Wiggle, Jiggle and Jam, Will Sings Songs, Spellbinding Skydance and The Bazillions.

Tom Ryan Park is located at 10802 Town Sqaure Drive NE. Aquatore Park is at 9191 Lincoln St. NE. For more information, visit www.blainemn. gov/4026/Performance-in-the-Park.

As spring cleaning season arrives, Anoka County invites residents to take part in a Reuse Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 13 and Sunday, June 14. at the Anoka County

Fairgrounds. Items dropped off on June 13 will be made available for others to take home on June 14. There is no cost to participate.

On Saturday, community members are encouraged to bring clean, usable household items, tools, toys, small furniture and other belongings that

Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo

Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937

could benefit someone. For full guidelines, accepted items and additional details, visit the reuse event webpage at anokacountymn.gov/4746/ReuseEvent.

Madeline Dolby Anoka County announces spring reuse event

The Anoka County Fairgrounds is located at 3200 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Anoka.

Take a minivacation

SPublisher’s

ummer day trips can be like a mini-vacation. We recently celebrated my mom's 83rd birthday in Red Wing. It was a short drive and the mapping progams gave us a route via the Gaylord Nelson Memorial Highway on the Wisconsin side. The winding roads are in pretty good shape, and the scenery is beautiful. We passed through a few small towns where there were numerous options to shop, dine and explore. Many of these small communities have art fairs and festivals in the summer. If you are in need of a short getaway but can't take a full-fledged vacation, look at the many destinations that are an hour or two drive away. All along the St. Croix River Valley to the north and the Mississippi to the south are small communities that are perfect for exploring in a day or overnight trip. To our readers north of the metro: I recommend taking a day trip to the White Bear Lake area and exploring the quaint downtown and lakeside trail.

In the Bear Tank

Many of our schools have opportunities where residents, business leaders, parents and others can volunteer for special programs or be guest speakers. I’ll never forget being invited to be one of the judges for the “Muskie Tank” competition that was launched at Century College with the help of the Mishek family. It was amazing to be in a room with high-level executives, engineers, product designers and business owners as we listened to students present their ideas. The spin on the popular TV show “Shark Tank” has become a trend. If you haven't seen the show, entrepreneurs present the products they have developed in order to get investment capital from wellknown business leaders and innovators, including Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Barbara Corcoran and Kevin O'Leary.

Last week I had the opportunity to get back in the classroom at White Bear Lake Area High School and listen to students' presentations in the “Bear Tank.” I was in awe of some of the ideas during that session. One was relevant to food waste, and it was impressive. The aspiring entrepreneuer has an idea to sell not only the invention, but also to expand the idea to other concepts to help people with food waste and recycling. It was something I could potentially see in our local hardware store that our residents would want to purchase. Another was a fishing boat apparatus to improve safety and efficiency. Another was an app that could capitalize on the old barter system and greatly reduce prices by not charging a tax. The last idea had to do with student safety on school grounds and in the parking lot, that I could see being taken to the next level and possibly rolled out in school districts across the state and country. All of the ideas and inventions presented had real merit; none of the presenters had ideas for how to generate the start-up funding needed to take their products to market and revenue streams. We as volunteers and local business people can help nudge students to realize this reality and set ablaze their small business start-ups.

One additional benefit of the Bear Tank was that students made contacts within the local business community. Some conversations grew into potential summer job opportunities at local businesses and other networking ideas. It was so fun to be back volunteering in a place where I got my high school education. Imagine where we could be if more people in our community would spend time volunteering and nudging each other in a positive way, versus criticizing our local institutions from behind the keyboard. Share grace with your friends and neighbors in the community, and get out and volunteer when you can.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

FLOCK University: Must know for taxpayers

This column I am calling FLOCK University to provide some basic information on the proposed FLOCK drone program being considered by the Anoka County Board. If approved, the program will cost taxpayers $15–20 million over the next 10 years, a 1% increase in the county levy per year.

Legislator Lingo Jeff Reinert

What is a FLOCK camera? FLOCK Safety’s technology uses automated license plate recognition (ALPR) cameras, typically mounted on roadside structures. These cameras can read well over 300 license plates each per hour. Critics across the political spectrum oppose FLOCK cameras, arguing they contribute to a growing “surveillance state.”

FLOCK cameras excel at “vehicle fingerprinting.” They capture license plates and detect a vehicle’s make, model, color, decals and other distinguishing features. While currently focused on vehicles, FLOCK has filed patents for technology for facial recognition to detect features such as identity, ethnicity, height, weight and clothing. Today, ongoing facial recognition surveillance requires a court order — but laws can change. No company would develop facial recognition technology and patent it to not use it.

What is the FLOCK drone program?

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• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

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The program would station drones in launch docks with FLOCK drones and technology throughout Anoka County. It is estimated that these drones would be deployed 10,000-12,000 times per year, currently to read license plates, later to also read faces.

In October 2024, FLOCK Safety acquired AeroDome, a Drone-asFirst-Responder (DFR) startup. Since then, FLOCK has been trying to find customers for their new drone ability. As of mid-2026, these systems exist in only 22 cities nationwide and are not deployed in any county yet. Anoka County would be the first county in the nation to use the FLOCK drone program.

Current status in Anoka County

Anoka County currently has 87 FLOCK roadside cameras (13 owned by the county and 74 by cities). Anoka County has 13 drones and many other drones are owned by individual cities. The proposed program would add 14 FLOCK drones in automated launch docks, bringing the total to 27 drones and would expand roadside FLOCK cameras from 87 to 200.

Cost and other concerns

The estimated cost is $1.7 million per year for the core contract raising our county levy by 1%. Personnel, maintenance and other incidental costs could increase the total by another 10% to 15%, pushing the 10-year price tag toward $20 million dollars. Also, while FLOCK is an American company, unlike other competitors that use American made drones, FLOCK uses

Chinese DJI drones. DJI has been designated by the U.S. Department of War as a Chinese military company. Another concern by some is that FLOCK is a privately held company and will have access to a tremendous amount of data.

My assessment

This program represents a significant step towards more pervasive surveillance. Once implemented at this scale, reversing course would be nearly impossible. This is a moment in time to let other counties and agencies serve as early adopters — to identify bugs, resolve legal challenges and address privacy concerns. We should have clearer evidence of the technology’s effectiveness and societal impact over the next 3 to 5 years. We should be on the back end of the knife on this one and not the cutting edge.

Most cities and counties already use drones successfully; the technology works well and is clearly here to stay. I am a certified FAA Part 107 drone pilot myself and appreciate how impressive this equipment can be. However, committing to an automated, county-wide program this early in the evolution of this technology carries too much risk and cost.

If this proposal comes before the Anoka County Board for a vote, I will vote NO.

Jeff Reinert is Anoka County Commissioner for District 3, representing Centerville, Circle Pines, Columbus, Linwood, Lino Lakes, Lexington and East Blaine.

QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• All letters are subject to editing.

• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110. • Press Publications publishes 99% of the letters to the editor that meet the guidelines.

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Carter Johnson

HIGH SCHOOL RODEO: Dead Broke Arena

them, you work with them to the point where they’re comfortable to ride, they’re comfortable around people, they’re comfortable around other horses,” explained Tom Schaffhausen, vice president of the Dead Broke Saddle Club. “In the advanced stages of that, if you had a horse that was ‘dead broke,’ he was perfect. You had taught him everything.”

The State Finals will test riders on just how much they have taught their horses, with events that include barrel racing, goat tying and bull riding. Current rodeo royalty members will also make appearances. Rodeo Queen Pearl Overby will be competing in barrel racing and pole bending.

Overby informed that, to become rodeo queen, judges evaluated her application on eight different points, including horse-riding ability, congeniality and modeling. “All of the rodeo queens dress up in these beautiful leather dresses,” Overby described. “It’s not like modeling you’d see on a runway. It’s slow. It’s feminine. You’re showing elegance.”

Elegance and grace are paramount to a good ride as well. “Horses can feel your energy, and they can feel your breathing.” Overby said. “They freeze up because they can feel you getting nervous, and then they get nervous.” Overby’s horse, therefore, gets a lot of love the day of a rodeo ride—even a hair braid.

A recently graduated senior, Overby is excited to have her final high-school rodeo at Dead Broke Arena. “It holds a lot of memories—I’ve had some of my best moments, but also some of my worst moments there,” she commented, adding that she especially treasures her low moments. “In rodeo, the worst moments can be the biggest turnaround for you … you can always take something good out of a bad experience.”

That wisdom, learned at that arena, is one of the reasons Mike Tate and his family have stayed involved with the Minnesota State High School Rodeo Association for more than three decades.

“I had two daughters in high school rodeo, and we were looking for a new place to have a rodeo,” Mike remembered. “Dan Ramberg was the president of Dead Broke Saddle Club at the time, and he said, ‘We ought

WEEKLY WAG

Flipp is a happy and affectionate young boy who is anxiously looking for a fresh start. He is a 1-year-old Poodle/Maltese mix, and he weighs about 15 pounds. Flipp is social with other dogs, and he is friendly to everyone he meets, even young kids. What Flipp enjoys most is cuddling up with his people. If allowed, Flipp would spend all day curled up in your lap. He is also a comfortable, cuddly bed partner. Flipp has a playful spirit, and he enjoys going on car rides. He is doing well with his training but

to try and do something … come up with some money to help sponsor it.’” Not only did the saddle club pony up the funds, but they have also now hosted the State Finals every year since 1998.

Since then, in addition to his two daughters, two of Mike’s grandsons and four granddaughters have become involved, including current Minnesota Junior High Rodeo Princess Charli Tate.

Charli Tate credits her grandfather with helping her learn how to maintain her horse’s health. “We have a very close relationship,” she stated. “He takes care of my horses because we keep them [at his stable]. He does so much to help me, my sister and my cousins do rodeo.” Besides her grandfather, Charli Tate gets riding inspiration from her aunts Jess and Jill, as well as the other competitors, many of whom are now her closest friends.

Overby agreed that camaraderie is a huge part of rodeo competitions. “You’ll go to these rodeos, and before you know it, you’re talking to 20 different people that you just met who are all super welcoming,” Overby said. “We’re one big family, and we’re so supportive of each other.”

Schaffhausen can also attest to the deep bonds rodeo riders form with one another.

“I remember, about 10 years ago, we had a kid that was bucked off a bull,” Schaffhausen recalled. “The next day, this kid comes up to my ticket booth, and he’s got a patch on his ear the size of a bee nest. I said, ‘What are you doing here?’ He says, ‘I’ve got to watch my buddies.’ And he stayed the whole day and cheered on his buddies.”

“It’s a good family activity,” Mike added. “It’s a lot of satisfaction just to see the kids grow and participate and see all their smiles.”

Participating in rodeo can also lead to scholarship benefits. Minnesota High School Rodeo alumni and 2024 Goat Tying Champion Jenna Lawrence is currently attending Odessa College on a full-ride rodeo scholarship. “That’s what being involved in rodeo can do,” said Jenna’s mother, Linn Lawrence. “It can pay for your education. A kid from Minnesota can go to school in Texas and have it all paid for.”

a continued, patient, consistent training routine will help him become his very best. Flipp arrived at Ruff Start Rescue as part of the Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program. He was found living on the streets in Texas, matted and full of burrs and sticks. Flipp has come a long way, and he is such a good boy. He deserves to be part of a loving family. If you are interested in learning more about Flipp or adopting him, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start

Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

Rodeo, both its events and its opportunities, is a wide, varied world. This weekend’s event at Dead Broke Arena serves as a perfect introduction. Charli Tate encouraged those interested in the sport to attend, ask questions and cast doubt of one’s ability aside.

“There’s no ‘can’t’ in something you haven’t tried,” she said.

For more information about Dead Broke Saddle Club, including the Minnesota State High School Rodeo Finals, visit deadbrokesaddleclub.org/events.

BUSINESS BRIEF

Mint Salon and Spa closes its doors

As of July 4, the Mint Salon and Spa will be closing its doors. The business opened in July 2016 and is located at 43 Central St., Circle Pines.

FLAVORED TOBACCO BAN: Lino Lakes City Council considers its options

However, the law did allow local governments to adopt ordinances imposing regulations on flavored tobacco products. Since the change, several Minnesota cities have adopted ordinances restricting the sale of flavored tobacco products.

“According to the Association of NonSmokers Minnesota, currently, as of April of this year, there are 28 cities and eight counties that have some form of restriction on flavored tobacco products,” Boehme said.

Nearby cities such as Shoreview, Arden Hills, Fridley and Columbia Heights enacted policies that prohibit or restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products and e-cigarettes. According

to Boehme, Shoreview has implemented a nearcomplete prohibition on the sale of flavored tobacco products.

Others, such as Fridley, prohibited such sales unless the retailer holds a Tobacco Product Shop license. He noted Fridley does limit the number of such licenses to five within city limits.

Boehme added if the city were to implement restrictions, approximately 12 businesses would be affected (see sidebar for more information).

“If we were to be considering amending our city ordinance, we are required to give a 30-day written notice to those who have a tobacco license in our city,” he said.

Boehme also explained the difference between a tobacco retailer and a

• Andy Hering, of Redpath and Company, provided the city council and staff an overview of the City’s 2025 annual Comprehensive Financial Report, presented the auditor’s management analysis and answered questions on the financial condition of the city. According to the staff report, the 2025 audit fieldwork was completed in April. The auditors reviewed the city’s financial transactions and report for the previous year to evaluate the fairness of presentation and the disclosure of all materials aspects of the city’s financial condition.

• The council and city staff discussed the possibility of making amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding keeping farm animals, specifically chickens and bees. The current zoning ordinance, Chapter 1007: Zoning Code, allows for the keeping of farm animals, such as chickens and bees, on rurally zoned properties (R, Rural, or R-X, Rural Executive). According to City Planner Katie Larsen, farm animals are defined as “any animal commonly associated with a farm or performing work in an agricultural setting. Unless otherwise defined, such animals shall include members of the equestrian family (horses, mules) bovine family (cows, bulls) sheep, poultry (chickens, turkeys), fowl (ducks, geese), swine (excluding Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs), goats, bees and other animals associated with a farm, ranch or stable.” There are 17,110 acres of zoned property in the city, according to Larsen, and 8,919 acres (52%) is rurally zoned.

tobacco shop.

“When you think of a tobacco retailer, think of all of our local gas stations,” he said. “Tobacco shops…90% of their revenue needs to come from tobacco… They can’t allow anybody into those businesses that are under the age of 21 and in some circumstances, they can allow sampling of the product.”

If the city did decide to move forward with creating the ordinance, Boehme said the council does not have to ban all flavored products and could carve out an exception. The council could also restrict retailers, shops or both from selling flavored products.

Council Member Michael Ruhland said he was not in favor of the ordinance because

of the minimum age requirement to buy tobacco products.

“You can drink. It seems like a bit of government overreach if you want my personal opinion,” Ruhland said. He also asked about the decriminalization portion of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act and if the store owner could also be decriminalized.

Boehme explained the store owner could be charged since they are selling the product.

Council Member Julia Nelson said children who are underage know who to buy flavored products from and where to go.

“I think Nathan’s whole point was the flavor — bubble gum, grape, strawberry — is specifically designed to hook kids. It’s not for the 21-year-old legal

Residents who reside on the land are allowed to keep farm animals. After discussion, the council and staff decided not to move forward with making amendments to the ordinance.

• Staff have completed reviews of the status of the gas and electric franchise agreements between the city and other entities and have identified certain agreements that need to be renewed. These franchise agreements include Circle Pines Utilities (Centennial Utilities) for gas service, CenterPoint Energy for gas service, Xcel Energy for gas and electric services and Connexus Energy for electric services. There is currently no agreement in place with Connexus Energy. The council ultimately provided direction to city staff on how to navigate the franchise agreements for Xcel Energy, Connexus Energy and CenterPoint Energy, as well as the franchise fee agreements.

• Lino Lakes Chief of Police Curt Boehme discussed with the council and city staff the possibility of restricting the sale of flavored vapes and tobacco products in the city. In August 2020, Minnesota Statute 609.685 went into effect and raised the minimum sales age for all tobacco products from 18 to 21, but the new law did not address the sale of flavored products. However, the law did allow local governments to adopt ordinances imposing regulations on flavored tobacco products (see full story in this week’s issue.)

smoker,” she said. “I would be in favor of starting something like this.”

Council Member Chris Lyden and Council Member Randy Rennaker were also against city staff moving forward with an ordinance.

“I think they’re (tobacco companies) probably not targeting the 40-year-old man or woman by creating bubblegum, spearmint and strawberry flavored products. I think they’re targeting a specific younger client, but I am against any further government overreach,” Rennaker said. “I don’t think we need an additional set of rules for adults.”

The council ultimately decided not to move forward with creating the ordinance.

Businesses affected by restrictions if implemented:

• Casey’s General Store

• Corner Express (Snak Atak)

• Bill’s Superette

• Holiday Stationstore

• Kwik Trip

• Lino Lakes Quick Stop

• Lino Lakes Tobacco & Vape

• Chomonix Golf Course

• G-Will Liquors

• Lakes 1 Stop (Holiday)

• AK Smoke Zone

• JP’s Liquor Wine & Beer

• Community Development Director Michael Grochala provided an update on the development of the city’s recreation complex. At the March 2, 2026, work session, the council discussed the possibility of selling a portion of the city’s recreation complex land to a private entity, with the requirement that it be used for recreational purposes. The intent is to have a private group construct a private recreational facility that would generate activity on the site and provide seed money for additional park improvements. Since the work session, staff have been working on investigating the feasibility of marketing a portion of the property for sale, this included confirming the legal authority to sell park land under current municipal and state laws, reviewing existing park land designations and any deed restrictions, reviewing land use and zoning requirements and conducting a financial and valuation analysis. Now, the council has provided direction on whether additional resources will be needed to help pursue the project at this time. Following discussion, city staff will work on finding an investor or company to help create a vision of what could be built on the property.

The next city council work sessions will be at 6 p.m., Monday, June 22 followed by a regular city council meeting at 6:30 p.m. at city hall.

Madeline Dolby

LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

1-2. Lino Lakes Public Safety: The Lino Lakes Police Department and the Lino Lakes Fire Department took part in this year’s Cop on a Rooftop event, put on by Special Olympics and Dunkin’. The event helped raise funds for Special Olympics. — Lino Lakes Fire Department, contributed

3. Centennial Football: Seniors on the Centennial football team volunteered at various elementary schools across the district at the end of May. — contributed

4. Lino Lakes Ambassadors: Lino Lakes Ambassadors Delilah LeClair (left) and Ella Friedman (right) recently volunteered at the Rice Lake Elementary Carnival. — Lino Lakes Ambassador Program, contributed

5-6. Clayton Follett: Clayton Follett, a duty crew firefighter with the Lino Lakes Fire Department,

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• A wallet was reported lost in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue, Lexington, May 27.

• A person wanted on a warrant was arrested May 27 in the 200 block of Galaxy Drive, Circle Pines.

• Harassment was reported May 27 in the 9000 block of S. Service Road, Lexington.

• Lost property was reported May 28 in the 4100 block of Lovell Road, Lexington.

• Officers responded to an animal complaint in the 100 block of Twinkle Terrace, Circle Pines May 29.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint May 29 in the 3900 block of Restwood Road, Lexington.

• A violation of a protection order was reported May 29 in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane, Lexington.

• Officers were requested to stand by in the area of the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue, Lexington, for bail bondsmen who were completing a fugitive apprehension assignment May 30.

• Officers responded to a report of a road rage incident where a weapon was involved the 9000

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Centennial Middle

School placed on temporary lockdown

After the Lino Lakes Police Department and neighboring agencies responded to an emergency incident near Snow Owl Lane and Grey Heron Drive at 12:26 p.m., Thursday, June 4, authorities sent out a

block of Griggs Avenue, Lexington May 30.

• A damaged backstop was reported at the basketball courts at Lamotte Park in Centerville May 30.

• A grass fire was reported May 30 in the 300 block of Nottingham Drive, Circle Pines.

• A driver was arrested for a traffic violation May 30 in the 8700 block of Naples Street NE, Blaine.

• Officers provided a ride home to an intoxicated person May 31 in the 7000 block of Centerville Road.

• A person was arrested for domestic assault May 31 in the 8900 block of Hamline Avenue, Lexington.

• Damage to property was reported in the 9100 block of Hamline Avenue May 31.

• Officers responded to suspicious activity in the 100 block of East Road, Circle Pines, June 1.

• Officers responded to a neighbor dispute June 1 in the 200 block of Pine Hollow Road, Circle Pines.

• A domestic escort was requested June 1 in the 3900 block of Restwood Road, Lexington.

The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• Fraud was reported in the 7000 block of West Shadow Lake Drive May 25.

shelter-in-place warning to residents. They also placed Centennial Middle School and Blue Heron Elementary School on a soft lockdown.

According to the Anoka County Sherrif’s Office, “As law enforcement reached the scene, and contacted an individual at the residence, a gunshot was heard coming from within the home. Officers

• Residents in the 7500 block of Norway Lane were evacuated following a fire alarm May 25.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 6900 block of Lamotte Drive May 25.

• Officers responded to a report of people sleeping in a vehicle at a residence in the 2100 block of Dogwood Court May 26.

• Officers responded to a hit and run crash in the area of Lake Drive and Elm Street May 26.

• Officers responded to a report of gas odor near an exterior gas meter May 27 in the 2100 block of Ada Drive.

• Officers responded to a civil dispute in the 600 block of Eagle Court May 27.

• Officers responded to a report of an abandoned vehicle in the area of Kelly Street and Sheila Avenue May 27. The owner was contacted and made arrangements to move it.

• Suspicious activity was reported in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway May 27.

• A motorcycle fled officers after an attempted stop May 27 on Interstate 35.

• A vehicle caught on fire at a business in the 500 Apollo Drive May 27.

• Officers responded to a verbal domestic incident in the 2000 block of Rosewood

were unable to remove the individual from the residence unharmed, and no known victims were inside the residence.”

Police, once inside, located the deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. ACSO stated, “The cause and manner of death will be determined by the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. There is no known

Street May 27.

• A driver was arrested for driving after revocation following a traffic stop in the 100 block of Main Street May 28.

• Officers responded to a civil dispute regarding parking on private property in the 7700 block of Lake Avenue May 28.

• Disorderly conduct was reported May 28 in the 100 block of Shetland Lane.

• Officers took a report of multiple potential crimes in the 7800 block of Century Trail May 28, and continue to investigate.

• Officers responded to a crash involving a vehicle and a bicycle at Town Center Parkway and Village Drive May 28. The bicyclist was taken to the hospital with non lifethreatening issues and the driver of the vehicle was cited for 2 offenses.

• A resident in the 400 block of Birch Street reported animal feces on their property May 28.

• A driver was arrested for DWI, driving after revocation, and possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop at Interstate 35 and Main Street May 29.

• A man was arrested for a felony warrant in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway May 29.

• Fraud was reported in the

threat to the public and law enforcement is not looking for additional suspects.”

The Lino Lakes Police Department lifted the school lockdown just after 3 p.m., commenting, “We appreciate the community's patience and cooperation as law enforcement ensured the safety of our students and residents throughout this afternoon.”

7000 block of Rice Lake Lane May 29.

• Officers met with a person May 29 to complete a Minnesota Predatory Offender Change of Information form in the 200 block of Apple Lane.

• Officers responded to people in a city park after hours May 30 in the 7800 block of Lake Drive.

• Officers spoke with anglers on Centerville Lake May 30 about the nuisance of their lights shining into nearby homes.

• Officers responded to grass fires in the 6000 block of Holly Drive and the 700 block of Apollo Drive May 30.

• A driver was arrested for violating a restriction on his driver’s license after being pulled over for an equipment violation at Lake Drive and Apollo Drive May 30.

• A noise complaint was reported in the 100 block of Woodridge Lane May 31.

• A grass fire was reported at Interstate 35 and Main Street May 31.

• Officers responded to a residence in the 2300 block of Clearwater Creek Road regarding possible underage drinking and driving May 31.

CALENDAR BRIEF

Celebration planned in north metro in honor of Women Veterans Day

Female veterans from the area are invited to attend a Women Veterans Day celebration and memorial dedication June 12 in Blaine. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Park, 10802 Town Square Drive NE, Blaine with the dedication of the “Honoring Women in Service” memorial. The program is sponsored by VFW Post 1782 and American Legion Post 168. Retired Col. Laura Ludwig will speak at 6 p.m. A dinner hosted by VFW Post 6316 will follow at 1374 109th Ave. NE, Blaine. There is no charge for dinner for female veterans. RSVP by emailing infovfwpost1782@gmail.com.

Clint Hallmark Enterprises is your small job specialist. Clint specializes in small jobs that the others don’t do. Clint Hallmark is a lifelong area resident who has been meeting the community’s carpentry needs for over 45 years.

Hallmark Enterprises also does windows, doors, locks, siding, small roofs, odd jobs and decks as well as ceiling texturizing winter damage repair, tree and hedge trimming and roof snow removing.

Free estimates are cheerfully given. The small job specialist with the small price and high quality that counts. Call 651-653-9920. See Clint’s ad weekly under “Carpentry.”

CLASSIFIEDS

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The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or

the

PUBLIC NOTICES

CENTENNIAL FIRE RELIEF ASSOCIATION

NOTICE OF NONPROFIT DISSOLUTION

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, the Centennial Fire Relief Association, a nonprofit corporation organized under Minn. Stat. chapters 317A and 424A, hereby gives notice of its dissolution. The Centennial Fire Relief Association filed its Notice of Intent to Dissolve with the Secretary of State on May 28, 2026. Written claims against the Centennial Fire Relief Association may be sent to the Centennial Fire Relief Association, 2 East Road, Circle Pines, MN 55014. Claims must be received by July 1, 2026 to be considered. Published four times in the Quad Community Press on June 2, 9, 16 and 23, 2026.

CITY OF LINO LAKES

ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA

WATER SERVICE CONNECTION PROJECT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of the Water Service Connection Project will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 10:00 AM local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Lino Lakes will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 312.626.6799 and entering Meeting ID 941 3133 3123 and Passcode 168453. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening. The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following approximate quantities:

17 Tree Clearing/Grubbing

15 Each Seal Well

15 Each Connect to existing water service

15 Each Sacrificial Anode Bag

1230 LF 1” HDPE Water Service (Directionally Drilled)

750 LF Sediment Control Log

1500 SY Sodding, Type Lawn

The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Lino Lakes shall comply with the provisions of the statute. Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www. questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #10227231 on the website’s Project Search page.

The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources. Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.

The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days.

For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

DATED: June 9, 2026 BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL Michael Grochala, Community Development Director, Lino Lakes, MN Published two times in the Quad Community Press on June 9 and 16, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF ANOKA DISTRICT COURT, TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 02-CV-26-4041 CONDEMNATION PETITION

City of Lino Lakes, Petitioner, vs. DPS-Wooddale, LLC; Minnesota Pipe Line Company; Rehbein Agricultural Services, Inc.; BLino, LLC; County of Anoka; Rice Creek Watershed District; Metropolitan Council and all other persons unknown claiming any right, title, estate, interest, or lien in the real estate described herein, Respondents.

TO: The Anoka County District Court and the above-named Respondents. IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE CITY OF LINO LAKES, ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA, FOR ROADWAY PURPOSES RELATING TO THE OTTER LAKE ROAD EXTENSION PROJECT The City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota (“City”) hereby brings this Condemnation Petition pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 117.055, and represents and alleges as follows:

1. The City is a home rule charter city located in Anoka County, Minnesota. 2. The City has those powers and rights of eminent domain necessary and convenient to acquire real property in the manner outlined in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 117.

3. The lands described herein are situated in the City of Lino Lakes, Anoka County, Minnesota.

4. The City is in need of acquiring the property interests identified in Exhibit A for the purpose of laying out, constructing, reconstructing, improving, and maintaining public roadway and right-of-way, together with all necessary and appurtenant public improvements, including drainage, stormwater facilities, grading, and related infrastructure, in connection with the extension of Otter Lake Road.

5. The above-described purpose is a public purpose and will benefit the residents of the City of Lino Lakes, the residents of Anoka County, others in the surrounding area, and the travelling public at-large.

6. The fee interests described in the attached Exhibit A will be used for public roadway and right-of-way purposes.

7. The permanent drainage and utility easement interests described in the attached Exhibit A will be used for necessary grading, sloping, drainage, stormwater management, and utility purposes.

8. The temporary easement interests described in the attached Exhibit A will be used to remove clay and soil for road reconstruction, for grading work necessary to match slopes, for storing equipment and supplies necessary to complete the project, and for other purposes related to the City’s project.

9. On December 8, 2025, the Lino Lakes City Council examined information relating to the acquisition of the land described in the attached Exhibit A for the purposes herein described, and determined that the acquisition of the land is necessary, serves a public purpose, and is in the best interest of the health, public safety, convenience, and general welfare of the residents of the City, the residents of Anoka County, others in the surrounding area, and the travelling public at-large. The City Council also determined that it required title to the properties pursuant to the “quick take” provisions in Minnesota Statute section 117.042.

10. The caption of this action lists all persons appearing of record or known

to the City to be owners or interested parties in the land described in the attached Exhibit A, including all persons or entities that the City has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover.

11. The City obtained an appraisal for each parcel of property described in the attached Exhibit A.

12. The City provided all of the “owners,” as defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 117.036, subdivision 1a, of the land described in the attached Exhibit A with a copy of the appraisal and informed the owner of the right to obtain an appraisal at the City’s expense in accordance with the requirements of Minnesota Statutes Section 117.036, subdivision 2.

13. The City attempted to negotiate in good faith with each owner for the direct purchase of the property interests described in the attached Exhibit A in accordance with the requirements of Minnesota Statutes Section 117.036, subdivision 3. The City has determined it is necessary to secure the property interests described in the attached Exhibit A through an eminent domain proceeding.

14. The City intends to take possession of the property interests described in the attached Exhibit A in accordance with the “quick-take” provisions of Minnesota Statutes Section 117.042. The City served notice of its intent to take possession of the property upon the owner and other parties with an interest in the properties described in Exhibit A on March 16, 2026, by certified mail.

15. The City intends to move the Court for an order authorizing the Court Administrator to accept and deposit payments from the City to the Court pursuant to the “quick-take” provisions in Minnesota Statutes Section 117.042.

WHEREFORE, the City requests an order of this Court approving the City’s Condemnation Petition and directing:

1. That such proceedings be had as are provided by law in order that the City may acquire, by eminent domain, the real property interests described in the attached Exhibit A;

2. That it be adjudicated and determined that the real property interests sought to be taken by the City are for a public use and purpose, and that the taking of real property from the owner of the land described in the attached Exhibit A is necessary and authorized by law;

3. That three competent and disinterested persons and two alternates, be appointed as commissioners to ascertain and report the amount of damages that will be sustained by the owner of the land described in the attached Exhibit A as a result of the taking;

4. That the Court order and fix the time and place of the first meeting of the commissioners and set out their compensation;

5. That the commissioners be directed and instructed by the Court to proceed according to law to make a fair and impartial assessment and award of all damages that will be sustained by the owners of the lands herein described, by reason of the taking, and to timely report the same to this Court;

6. That the City may take title to and possession of the property described in the attached Exhibit A prior to the filing of an award by the Court appointed commissioners in accordance with the “quick-take” provisions outlined in Minnesota Statutes Section 117.042; and

7. For other such relief as the Court may deem just and equitable.

Respectfully Submitted,

Dated: May 29, 2026 SQUIRES, WALDSPURGER & MACE, P.A.

By: /s/ Zachary J. Cronen s

Zachary J. Cronen, Atty. No. 397420

Jordan R. Kleinschmidt, Atty. No. 506450

333 South Seventh St., Ste. 2800 Minneapolis, MN 55402

Phone: (612) 436-4300 zachary.cronen@raswlaw.com jordan.kleinschmidt@raswlaw.com

ATTORNEYS FOR CITY OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA

ACKNOWLEDGMENT REQUIRED BY MINN. STAT. § 549.211

The undersigned acknowledges that sanctions may be imposed under Minn. Stat. § 549.211.

Dated: May 29, 2026 SQUIRES, WALDSPURGER & MACE, P.A.

By: /s/ Zachary J. Cronen s

Zachary J. Cronen, Atty. No. 397420

Jordan R. Kleinschmidt, Atty. No. 506450

333 South Seventh St., Ste. 2800 Minneapolis, MN 55402

Phone: (612) 436-4300 zachary.cronen@raswlaw.com jordan.kleinschmidt@raswlaw.com

ATTORNEYS FOR CITY OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA

EXHIBIT A

Parcel 4, 6, 8, and 3 & 4

Property Description: 7393 24th Ave, Lino Lakes, MN 55038

PID No. 13-31-22-43-0002; 13-31-22-41-0005; 13-31-22-42-0001

Nature of Interest to be Acquired: Right-of-way fee; Permanent Drainage and Utility Easement; Temporary Construction Easement

Legal description of Interests to be Acquired: Right-of-Way

ROW Parcel 4 as shown on CITY OF LINO LAKES RIGHT OF WAY