Quad Community Press by Press Publications

Council will consider moratorium

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

LINO LAKES —

Beginning Aug. 15, a moratorium could go into effect prohibiting the creation of new residential lots within the northwest quadrant of the city.

The Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommends the City Council approve the interim ordinance. The council is expected to decide on the moratorium at its June 24 meeting (after press deadline).

“We have been at this for the better part of two months, and we have probably been discussing it almost every meeting since,” said Community Development Director Michael Grochala about the recommendation for a moratorium. “The sod farms have always had some interest or appeal for development, but it’s always been a very complex site.”

The one-year moratorium would allow the city to complete the master planning process, which is recommended in the city’s 2040 comprehensive plan, as well as time to complete an Alternative Urban Areawide Review. The review is an environmental document allowing for more in-depth analysis of the master plan and provide mitigation strategies, Grochala explained.

The approximately 900acre study area would be bound by 4th Avenue on the east, Sunset Avenue to the west, Pine Street on the north and Carl Street/ Century Trail on the south.

“Development doesn’t happen overnight,” Grochala said. “We can say ‘time out’ and allow us the

time to put the necessary plans together to help facilitate development moving forward.”

Several residents and non-residents continue to speak in favor and against the proposed moratorium.

President Faraaz Yussuf of Zikar Holdings, the developer who submitted a concept plan for Madinah Lakes said, “This northwest quadrant has been a topic of discussion for development for nearly two decades. Throughout this time multiple development proposals have been put forward and have received varying levels of review, discussion or approvals and at no point during these past discussions has a moratorium ever been proposed or discussed. I ask why now?”

Scott Robinson, who owns land in the proposed study area said, “The northwest quadrant was slated for development back in 1990 and has remained in the comp plan since that time. We have waited until we felt the timing was appropriate for our families, the community and the economy.”

He added, “When I drive through Lino Lakes and I see Slow the Grow signs, it breaks my heart, and it angers me. I think how could anyone put those two statements together, because when you take it into its entirety, you are saying I love Lino Lakes, I got mine. The rest of you keep out. I’m grateful previous farming families provided others the opportunity to live in our great city, and I will continue to welcome more.”

SEE MORATORIUM, PAGE 5

Lexington to pay $110K to former firefighters

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

The city of Lexington will pay a total of $110,000 to two former firefighters after reaching a settlement agreement.

Last October former firefighters Mindy Fiester and Todd Messer filed a lawsuit against the city of Lexington. City Attorney Kurt Glaser explained that Fiester and Messer were suing under the Whistleblower Act. “The law is meant to protect people that in good faith report violations of the law to the city,” he said. “When someone makes a good faith belief that there is a violation of law, they’re protected from any kind of discrimination or retaliation.”

“When someone makes a good faith belief that there is a violation of law, they’re protected from any kind of discrimination or retaliation.”

Kurt Glaser City Attorney

Fiester became employed with the city in March 2018. As alleged in the lawsuit, on or about Dec. 27, 2020, Fiester’s minor daughter (age 17) told her that she was going to go visit with family friend, Lexington Firefighter Scott Parenteau. In the early morning hours of Dec. 28, Fiester was awoken by her daughter who was in a state of severe distress. She was hospitalized later that day.

SEE SETTLEMENT, PAGE 2

SETTLEMENT: Lexington reaches agreement in Whistleblower Act suit

FROM PAGE 1

Fiester eventually learned from her daughter that Parenteau had invited her daughter to drink alcoholic beverages to the point that they were “intermittently blacking out.” Parenteau also allowed her daughter to drive his vehicle even though she didn’t have a license and was intoxicated. The lawsuit alleges that Parenteau sexually abused Fiester’s daughter, who then made a police report the following day. Shortly after the incident, Fiester reported Parenteau’s conduct to former Fire Chief (now mayor) Gary Grote, who chose not to address the situation and continued to employ Parenteau. She brought it up again a few months later, but no action was taken.

Fiester reported the situation to Captain Messer in April 2021, who then reported it to Grote. Per court documents, Grote told Messer, “I don’t want to know about this because if I don’t know anything about it, I don’t have to do anything about it.”

As alleged in the lawsuit, despite having multiple reports Grote, nor any city employee, took any action to investigate or discipline Parenteau. Grote denied ever having received a report of the situation prior to Messer.

In August 2021, Grote ordered Fiester to attend a meeting with an attorney who had allegedly been hired by Grote to investigate the reports of sexual assault. Despite not being notified she was under investigation; she was

interviewed by the attorney about the incident.

In November 2021, City Administrator Bill Petracek and City Attorney Kurt Glaser alleged that Fiester did not comply with mandated reporting requirements. Fiester argued she had reported the violations to her child’s social worker. Fiester was then informed she would be suspended pending further investigation.

Later that month, Fiester received a letter informing her employment was being terminated. Per the letter, she was invited to “voluntarily resign” by a certain time or findings of the investigation “would be made public.” Fiester then resigned.

Messer was also notified about his suspension pending further investigation in September 2021. An attorney told Messer he was being investigated for allegedly using his red and blue lights in his personal vehicle. In November, Glaser informed Messer that the investigation had concluded, and that Messer’s employment would be terminated.

Messer reportedly met with Glaser to discuss options, where Glaser informed him that the city was “cleaning house because of all the stuff that was going on.” Messer decided to voluntarily design, for the same reasons as Fiester. Pursuant to the settlement agreement, the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT) is to pay Fiester $65,000 and Messer $45,000. The city of Lexington will have to pay

LMCIT its $500 deductible. Per the city’s statement about the settlement, the LMCIT chose to settle the case for several reasons, including litigation strategy and the costs associated with litigation. It reads in part, “In settling the case, the city of Lexington makes no admission of liability for the claims asserted by Fiester and Messer.”

Glaser explained that Fiester “secretly recorded” her performance review with Grote back in May. “During the course of the later investigation when some of this stuff came to light, we didn’t know that she had made these original reports to Mr. Grote. Based on that and the discussions at the mediation, it was felt that if it was a potentially viable claim, then the city would be on the hook for damages, attorney’s fees and those amounts would be in excess of what was paid out in the settlement,” Glaser said. “Because all they would have to prove is that someone made a good faith attempt to report what they thought were violations of the law. Whether they are in fact or not later on doesn’t become as important as there was a report, and it wasn’t acted on by the fire chief until months later after the initial reports and that put the city at liability because there wasn’t action taken in a timely fashion.”

Grote responded, “The first I knew about anything was when she recorded the interview for the review. At that point, there was really nothing like what was indicated in the next officers

meeting about the actual violation.”

Council Member Mike Murphy said, “You let this go and you let it go through for months. The city got notified of it through word of mouth. You didn’t report it.”

Grote responded, “I knew portions, not the actual entire thing and was trying to figure out what to do with it. When I heard everything, that’s when I reported it.”

Murphy added, “There is always two sides to every story and we thoroughly investigated this entire incident for months … You are trying to save your own skin right now by denying these allegations.” Murphy suggested Grote should resign. “Facts are facts. You need to be held responsible for your actions. You cost taxpayers (thousands of dollars).”

Council Member Kim DeVries said, “She told you about what happened, and you didn’t react,” he added. “You should have reacted right then and not waited until the officers meeting. You should have reported it right then and not waited.”

Grote responded, “In my own mind I did what was right. I didn’t have all of the information and when I had all of the information I acted on it.”

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

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CENTENNIAL

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12

SCHOOL BOARD WORK STUDY SESSION SUMMARY

MAY 13, 2024

1. Call to Order Chair Knisely called the Work Study Session to order at 5:30 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. Roll Call The following members were present: ex-officio Holmberg, Knisely, Linser, Johnson, Murphy, Schwinn, Bettinger. The following members were absent: None. 3. 2024-2025 Adopted Budget Executive Director Chaffey gave a presentation on the 2024-2025 Adopted Budget which the Board will be asked to approve at the May 20, 2024 board meeting. 4. Procurement Executive Director Chaffey gave an overview of the following purchases that the board will be asked to approve at the May 20, 2024 meeting: Combi Oven Project, HP Desktop Purchase, Chromebook Purchase 5. Property Purchase As part of the long-range facilities plan, over the past several years the District has acquired adjacent properties as they become available. As with past purchases our process involves, gauging the property owner’s interest, obtaining an appraisal, and utilizing our District attorney to prepare the purchase agreement. The final step in the process would be to obtain board approval to purchase the property at 4896 103rd Lane NE. 6. Adjourn at 6:04 p.m. Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on June 25, 2024.

CENTENNIAL

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY

MAY 20, 2024

(Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-7926010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NOTICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; May 20, 2024. 1. Call to Order Chair Knisely called the Regular Meeting of the School Board to order at 6:30 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Roll Call The following members were present: Knisely, ex-officio Holmberg, Linser, Schwinn, Murphy, Bettinger, Johnson. The following members were absent: None. 4. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Murphy, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Public Comment None. 6. Consent Items 6.1. Approval of Minutes: Work Study Session Minutes of April 1, 2024 and Regular Board Meeting Minutes of April 15, 2024. 6.2. Approval of Monthly Disbursements. 6.3. Approval of Personnel Items. 6.4. Approval of Individual Contract Settlements. Motion to approve the Consent Agenda Items as detailed in the enclosures by Schwinn, seconded by Johnson. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7. Resource Management 7.1. 2024-2025 Adopted Budget - Motion to approve the 2024-2025 Adopted Budget by Johnson, seconded by Bettinger. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7.2. Approval of Bid Award for Combi Oven Project - Motion to approve Bid Award to Boelter LLC in the amount of $240,290.35 for the Combi Oven Project by Murphy, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7.3. Approval of Purchase of HP Desktops - Motion to approve the purchase of 315 HP Desktops from NowMicro in the amount of $251,250.30 by Johnson, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7.4. Approval of Purchase of Chromebooks - Motion to approve purchase of 1,100 Chromebooks from CDW in the amount of $227,700 by Schwinn, seconded by Murphy. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 7.5. Resolution Placing Teachers on Unrequested Leave of Absence RESOLUTION PLACING TEACHERS ON UNREQUESTED LEAVE OF ABSENCE Motion to adopt the Resolution Placing Teachers on Unrequested Leave of Absence by Bettinger, seconded by Johnson. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Knisely, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Bettinger, Johnson. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 7.6. Adoption of Acknowledgement of Contributions Resolution Motion to adopt the Resolution Placing Teachers on Unrequested Leave of

Absence by Murphy, seconded by Linser. Roll Call Vote – Ayes: Knisely, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Bettinger, Johnson. Nays: None. Motion carried unanimously. 8. Communication 8.1. AMSD. 8.2. CAEF. 8.3. NE Metro 916. 8.4. SEE. 8.5. District Committee Reports 9. Superintendent Report 10. Informational Items 10.1. Dates to Note. 11. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Johnson, seconded by Linser. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 7:06 p.m. Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson Published one time in the Quad Community Press on June 25, 2024.

CENTENNIAL

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 12 SCHOOL BOARD SPECIAL MEETING SUMMARY MAY 20, 2024

(Abbreviated—full minutes available at www.isd12.org or call 763-7926010 to request a hard copy) LEGAL NOTICE: School Board, Independent School District 12; 4707 North Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota; May 20, 2024. 1. Call to Order Chairperson Knisely called the Special Meeting of the School Board to order at 5:33 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. 2. Pledge of Allegiance 3. Roll Call The following members were present: Knisely, Linser, Murphy, Schwinn, Johnson, ex-officio Holmberg. Member Bettinger arrived at 5:35 p.m. The following members were absent: None. 4. Approval of the Agenda Motion to approve the agenda by Johnson, seconded by Linser. Vote: 5-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. 5. Adjourn into Closed Session Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 13D.05, Subd. 3(a) the board will adjourn into closed session for the purpose of completing the annual, systematic review and evaluation of the Superintendent’s performance. Motion to adjourn into closed session to complete the annual, systematic review and evaluation of the Superintendent’s performance by Murphy, seconded by Schwinn. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. The board adjourned at 5:35 p.m. to go into closed session to complete the annual, systematic review and evaluation of the Superintendent’s performance. The closed session was called to order at 5:39 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room. The following members were present: Knisely, Linser, Schwinn, Murphy, Bettinger, Johnson. The following members were absent: None. Motion to adjourn the closed session by Johnson, seconded by Bettinger. Vote: 6-0-0. The closed session adjourned at 6:25 p.m. 6. Reconvene The special meeting of the School Board reconvened at 6:28 p.m. in the District Office Board Room. Chairperson Knisely reported that no action was taken during the closed session. 7. Adjourn Motion to adjourn by Linser, seconded by Johnson. Vote: 6-0-0. Motion carried unanimously. Adjourn at 6:29 p.m.

Craig Johnson, School Board Clerk

Minutes prepared by Jody Josephson

Published one time in the Quad Community Press on June 25, 2024. CITY OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA NOTICE OF HEARING ON IMPROvEMENT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will meet in the council chambers of the city hall at 6:30 p.m. on July 8, 2024, to consider improvements for the 2024/2025 Street Reconstruction and Municipal Sewer and Water Extension, Colonial Woods project. The project will include the extension of municipal sewer and water to the Colonial Woods neighborhood which is located off 62nd Street and Red Maple Lane. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §429.011 to 429.111 and City Charter, the area proposed to be assessed for such improvement is generally described as the property located at 707 62nd Street (PID 32-31-22-14-0013) in addition to all properties abutting Red Maple Lane included in the plat of Colonial Woods. The estimated cost of the improvement is $4,024,209 of which $522,000 is proposed to be assessed. A reasonable estimate of the impact of the assessment will be available at the hearing. Such persons as desire to be heard with reference to the proposed improvement will be heard at this meeting.

For further information regarding the above item, contact Diane Hankee, City Engineer, at 651 982-2430.

A sign language or foreign language translator may be requested by con-

tacting City Hall a minimum of 48 hours prior to the hearing. Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing.

Hannah Lynch, City Clerk

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on June 18 and 25, 2024.

CITY OF LINO LAKES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIvEN that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on July 8, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following: Drainage and Utility Easement Vacation PID #13-31-22-22-0052

Outlot C, Watermark 5th Addition

For further information regarding the above item, please contact City Engineer, Diane Hankee, at 651-982-2430. Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.

Roberta Colotti City Clerk

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on June 18 and 25, 2024.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF ANOKA TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT, PROBATE DIvISION COURT FILE NO. 02-PR-24-351

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIvE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (INTESTATE) In Re: Estate of Walter James Schulz, Decedent.

Notice is given that an Application for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative was filed with the Registrar. No Will has been presented for probate. The Registrar accepted the application and appointed Lauri Peterson, whose address is 1745 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW, Apt. 205, Ham Lake, MN 55304, to serve as the personal representative of the Decedent’s estate. Any heir or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Any objection to the appointment of the personal representative must be filed with the Court, and any properly filed objection will be heard by the Court after notice is provided to interested persons of the date of hearing on the objection.

Unless objections are filed, and unless the Court orders otherwise, the personal representative has the full power to administer the estate, including, after thirty (30) days from the issuance of letters of general administration, the power to sell, encumber, lease, or distribute any interest in real estate owned by the Decedent.

Notice is further given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Decedent’s estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court within four (4) months after the date of this notice or the claims will be barred.

Dated: June 10, 2024

Pamela Kreir, Registrar Lori O’Brien, Court Administrator

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

Tarrant & Liska, PLLC Melanie Engh Liska (#0315357) 1570 Concordia Avenue, Suite 200. Saint Paul, MN 55104

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ONGOING EVENTS

MARKETFEST

When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, June 13 through July 25

Where: Downtown White Bear Lake

Details: Community summer festival with 200+ food and vendor booths, live music, car show, kids activities, specials at local merchants. Theme weeks include: Avenue of the Arts on June 13; History Night June 20, and White Bear Lake Area Schools June 27. Contact: marketfestwbl.com

LEXINGTON FARMERS MARKET

When: 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays

Where: Lexington Municipal Liquore Store front paring lot, 9271 Lake Drive

Details: Vendors selling veggies and fruit, baked goods, Maple syrup, tea and homemade gifts. Contact: Karen Gregory 612-272-3386 or kgregory244@ gmail.com

CURRENT EVENTS

CENTERVILLE MUSIC IN THE PARK

When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 25

Where: Hidden Spring Park, Centerville

Details: This week’s concert will feature Mean Gene and the Woodticks. Contact: Facebook.com/CentervilleMusicInThePark

Bald Eagle Waterski Shows

BALD EAGLE WATERSKI SHOWS

When: 7 p.m. Thursdays, June 13 through end of August

Where: Trailside Park, Centerville Details: Volunteer team of waterskiers performs weekly throughout the summer, and travels throughout Minnesota to perform weekend shows.

Contact: baldeaglewaterskishows.net

LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD

When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 25

Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, door G, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview

Details: Jan Margotto will present Quilting with Curves, and a Trunk Show highlighting tips and design techniques.

Contact: LakeshoreQuiltGuild@gmail.com

MUSIC ON THE LAKE

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, June 27

Where: Golden Lake Park, 67 W. Golden Lake Road, Circle Pines

Details: Free outdoor communiy concert featuring a Family DJ Dance Party. Contact: isd12.ce.eleyo.com

FILLEBROWN FRIDAYS

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, June 28

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave.

Details: Self-guided tour of the 1879 Red Chalet Cottage on White Bear Lake and refreshements on the porch. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

ARTISAN AND VENDOR FAIR

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 29

Where: Hippodrome Ice Arena, 4855 Bloom Avenue

Details: Crafters, makers, boutiques, and vendors. Contact: sunriseeventsandcraftshows.com

LEARN TO STAND UP PADDLEBOARD

When: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 29

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve

Details: Instruction followed by time on the water. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com

FREE PADDLE BOARD AND KAYAK SESSION

When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 29

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve

Details:Try equipment for free and receive basic instruction. Ages 12+. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com

CAMPFIRE TALKS WITH A NATURALIST

When: 7-7:45 p.m. Saturday, June 29

Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Campground

Details: Family-friendly naturalist-led presentation on Wild Cats. Free.

Contact: anokacountyparks.com

VETSFEST 2024

When: June 29 & 30

Where: Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, 8390 Lofton Ave. N, Grant Details: Event organized by Vets for Music includes live music performances. Contact: gasthausbavarianhunter.com

KEEGANS 5K FOR CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS AWARENESS

When: 9 a.m. Sunday, June 30

Where: West Park, 2350 11th Street

Details: Noncompetitive 5K run/walk along the lake organized by local family.

Contact: sites.google.com/site/ keegans5kforcranioawareness

ANNUAL PET PARADE AND BLESSINGS

When: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sunday, June 30

Where: St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, 2175 First Street

Details: Pet parade followed by blessing. Pet-friendly outdoor worship service at 10 a.m.

Contact: manitoudays.com

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Possehl Agency

Your Local Trusted Independent Medicare Insurance Agent Call Kirk Today at: 612-747-2726 possehlagency@gmail.com • possehlagency.com

Upcoming Games

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

Possehl Agency

Kirk and Jackie Possehl

The little guys

For the last decade that I have been working as a journalist I have received several awards, but this was a first.

I recently attended the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists (MNSPJ) Page One Awards to receive a third-place award in the feature writing category for the “Faces of Fentanyl” story that was published in several of our publications back in October.

Shannon’s Shenanigans

Shannon Granholm

The story detailed the journeys of area residents Laura Cowles, Heather Johnson and Zach Zacho, who all outlived their children, who were victims of a fentanyl overdose.

For several years now I have entered the Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA) Better Newspaper Contest in hopes of winning an award. This year when I entered and didn’t receive an award, I was disheartened. When I saw an email about the MNSPJ awards contest, which I had never entered, I thought hmmm should I try?

I spoke with our photographer Paul Dols, who said he had attended the MNSPJ awards banquet in the past and enjoyed their guest speakers. He encouraged me to enter and so I did. I submitted a feature story and some of my more personal columns that have talked about the loss of my German shepherd Frosty, my grandfather and my personal journey with postpartum depression.

Back in February, I received an email letting me know that I had won an award, but it didn’t give any more information than that. Up until the banquet, I had no idea what I won for, what category the award was in or what place I got.

I was so thrilled to receive an award, especially for such an important story that has affected so many lives. This year’s contest had well over 500 entries from across the state. Of course, once I found out I received third place, the competitor in me started to come out and I was a bit disappointed I didn’t get second, or even first place. Perhaps it is all those years of competing in figure skating, where second place just wasn’t good enough for me.

At the banquet, I was reminded that I was up against all the “big guys.” In almost every category, awards were given to the Star Tribune, Minnesota Public Radio and the Pioneer Press. So, I was happy to represent the “little guys.”

We “little guys” are often forgotten about. Those bigger media outlets may cover the controversial topics when there are 250 people packed into city hall, but what about the little guys who are always there, even when we are the only one in the audience. We are still here.

So, here’s to the little guys who are still around and work every day to produce LOCAL news the communities, outside of Minneapolis and St. Paul, deserve. Thank you to our readers and subscribers who continue to trust us and support us.

Although we don’t do this job for awards, it sure feels nice to be recognized and reminded that what we do matters.

Shannon Granholm is the Managing Editor at Press Publications. She can be reached by emailing quadnews@presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1200

Shannon Granholm received a third-place award in the feature writing category at the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists Page One Awards banquet at The Lowlands in St. Paul.

What is a community service officer?

My name is Chad Ziemer and I work as a community service officer for the Centennial Lakes Police Department. I have been on the job for just under a year now, and the most frequent question I get from friends and neighbors is, “What is a community service officer and how are they different from a police officer?”

A community service officer (CSO) is a non-sworn employee of a police department who performs delegated duties authorized by local city ordinance. CSOs are typically college-aged individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Becoming a CSO is a great way for someone to gain experience that will benefit them if they become a police officer someday. Because CSOs work closely with police officers on a daily basis, they get firsthand knowledge of police work. When applying for a police officer position at a department,

this background often provides them an advantage over other candidates without similar experience.

CSOs have the ability to enforce local city ordinance, but their main objective is education. A CSO’s goal is to help citizens understand the ordinances. Whether it is providing residents with printed copies of the ordinance violation, or leaving a notice on scene, CSOs make every effort to inform citizens of the city ordinance and work with them in rectifying issues. Frequently, our CSOs provide residents with reasonable time to remedy the violations. If the issues persist, a citation could be issued.

Like police officers, CSOs patrol the city in a squad and respond to various low-risk calls. These calls include found property, motorist assists, vehicle lockouts, and animal calls. The most common of these calls are animal related. If a wild animal is orphaned or creating a safety concern on a resident’s private property, CSOs might relocate the animal or bring it to a wildlife rehabilitation center. If your dog is lost, a CSO is likely to be the one to find and return it safely home.

CSO’s also provide a variety of administrative and

supportive functions for their police department. We bring police squads to the auto shop for regular maintenance, take fingerprints for local residents needing employment backgrounds, deliver evidence to the local sheriff’s office for forensic work, serve as courier between the police department and city hall for official documents, and transport arrestees to county jail if the arresting officer is tied up with other duties. CSO’s may also respond to medical calls to assist officers, and we often help direct traffic during motor vehicle crashes.

Perhaps the most vital function of a CSO is community engagement. You might see a CSO at a local parade, trunk or treat event, bicycle safety course, or Night to Unite block party. There we hand out candy, police stickers, and department swag. We also have the privilege of mentoring youth at local elementary schools. If you ever see CSOs patrolling through your neighborhood or park, wave them down and ask for a police sticker.

Chad Ziemer is a community service officer with the Centennial Lakes Police Department.

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• Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not

be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits.

• Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.

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Cop’s Corner

Chad Ziemer

MORATORIUM: Planning commission recommends a pause on development

FROM PAGE 1

Resident Ashley Johnson, said she would support the moratorium for safety reasons. “This moratorium will give us time to determine how our police department and emergency medical services will be able to grow with the influx of thousands of people. It will give the city time to determine how to handle the major effect on vehicle traffic on Main Street,” she said. “The safety of our residents needs to be at the forefront of this decision.”

Resident Bonnie Herman also said she would support a moratorium, if for no other reason, then to look at lot sizes. “Please protect our land, our water, our environment, our schools and all the other things we keep talking about,” she said.

Resident Melissa Schultz said she would support the moratorium, so the city had time for the master planning process. “I have seen a lot of communities wish they had a master plan, but I have yet to see one regret having one,” she said. “I’ve also found that pausing projects for more in-depth planning and getting the opinion of more voices, while it does take longer, it always creates better community outcomes.”

Circle Pines resident Laura Gannon said she was against the moratorium. “The moratorium would have potential to bring on costly lawsuits against the city at the taxpayers’ expense… It would also duplicate efforts the

WEEKLY WAG

existing process already covers,” she said. “Do the right thing, follow the process, judge the development on the materials submitted, trust ability of team working on project… The process will bring to light any issues.”

Resident Sara Shady says there is no need for a moratorium. “It is because of your good work that I do not believe we need a moratorium in the northwest corner of the city. Of course, we must consider the impact any proposed development would have on things like our water, roads, public safety, emergency services and classroom sizes. Our city already has long established processes to do this,” she said. “Our existing processes and your diligent work, as well as the diligent work of our city employees and other boards, are sufficient for a review of the Madinah Lakes proposal.”

Grochala reminded everyone that the action in front of the board, and soon to be the council, is not about a specific development proposal, but rather if the city should study a much broader area.

“We are not at a point with either development proposal where we have specific plans, specific architecture, drainage calculations, those things get into pretty specific detail once we get into the preliminary plat process. We are still up at the 20,000-foot level,” Grochala said. “We are talking about whether there is a need for the city to do a master plan on this entire area

Gryffin is a fun little guy and would be a perfect playmate for another accepting and social dog. He gets along very well with other dogs and even with cats, and he is friendly with people he gets to know and trust. He can be shy and a bit timid towards new people at first, but typically

or not, and whether we need to initiate a moratorium to allow for that process to happen.”

Planning commissioner Suzy Guthmueller said she was in support of the moratorium because she felt the master planning process was important. “There are tons of moratoriums out there. It is for cities to do a better job of making sure their planning process is in place. It Is not to make anyone go away …” she said. “We cannot do this over again. Once you have put something there, it is there for good and I think it is our due diligence to look further into this and do a master plan.”

Planning commissioner Neil Evenson said he was also in support of the moratorium. “I think it is worth looking at the whole thing. I think it is worth a pause,” he said.

Ultimately, the commission chose to recommend the interim ordinance to the council for the purpose of developing a master plan and going through the environmental review process.

Deepening on what the council chooses, a second reading on the draft ordinance could happen July 8. If approved, the moratorium would go into effect Aug. 15.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs. com.

warms up quickly as soon as trust is established.

Gryffin is a 3-year-old hound/ Beagle mix and he weighs about 38 pounds. He is house trained, crate trained and he knows his basic commands. Gryffin would do wonderfully in a loving forever home with a securely fenced yard because he loves his outdoor playtime and playing with his toys. And, as noted, Gryffin would like to have a doggy playmate.

When he is not playing, Gryffin is a cuddler and enjoys relaxing with his people. Gryffin arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter. Persons interested in learning more about Gryffin or adopting him, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org.

OBITUARY

June 1, 2024.

Carl Street/ Century Trail on the south.

HOW WE GOT HERE:

• April 1: City Council first discussed the possibility of enacting a residential moratorium for the northwest quadrant of the city.

• April 29: City Council met with City Attorney Jay Squires to discuss the moratorium process.

• May 28: City Council directed city staff to initiate the moratorium process.

• June 17: The Planning and Zoning Board held a public hearing regarding the interim ordinance that would enact a moratorium.

• June 24: City Council holds first reading and public hearing.

Isaac Daniel Rodela, Jr.

Though his time with us was too brief, the impact of his presence will be everlasting. Isaac, Jr. was our beloved miracle, cherished beyond measure and a beacon of hope and joy to all who knew of his impending arrival.

Isaac, Jr. will be forever loved and remembered by his parents, Isaac Rodela, Sr. and Chistina Collins, and by many family members and friends.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help the family with hospital and burial costs.

To donate: https://tinyurl.com/ rfvyvr4p

If a moratorium is passed, the city plans to study an approximately 900-acre area in the northwest quadrant of the city. The study area is bound by 4th Avenue on the east, Sunset Avenue to the west, Pine Street on the north and

Wednesdays Ongoing – Trivia

Sundays Acoustic Sundays 1p-4p

Sundays Ongoing - Game day, BYO 1p-4p

July 2 Yoga in the Vineyard 6p-7p

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Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Rustic Roots Winery

July 6 Music: Andrews Spreck/ Bob Colbert 1p-4p Saint Croix Vineyards

July 7 Country Glam Hat Bar with LilyBelle HatCo 1p-3:30p

July 7 Music: Prairie Beats 3p-6p

July 7 Music: Brendan Bonin 2p – 5p

July 7 Saigon Delicious Food Truck 2p-7p

July 9 Yoga in the Vineyard 6p-7p

July 9 BINGO 6:30p-8p

July 10 Cribbage Tournament 6p-7p

July 10-20 Romeo & Juliet in the Vineyard 7:30p-9p

July 10 Music: Gary LaRue 5:30-8:30

July 11 Music: Patrick Allen 4p – 7p

July 11 Music: The White Keys 6p – 9p

July 12 Music: The Jimtones 6p – 9p

July 13 Music: Will Seaton Band 1p-4p

July 13 Smug Pug Food Truck 4p – 8p

July 13 Gloom & Glitter Craft Fair 12p – 5p

July 13-14 Wine Meets Art Festival 11a-5p

July 14 Music: Matt Jennings 3p-6p

July 14 Live Music

July 14 Brick Oven Bus 2p – 7p

July 14 Music: Josh Quinn 2p – 5p

July 16 Yoga in the Vineyard 6p-7p

Ju;y 16 Trivia with Ryan 6:30p-8p

July 17 Music: Cole Thomas 5:30 – 8:30

Rustic Roots Winery

7 Vines Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

Rustic Roots Winery

7 Vines Vineyard

Belle Ame Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

Saint Croix Vineyards

Big Wood Brewery

White Bear Meadery

Saint Croix Vineyards

Rustic Roots Winery

Two Silo Winery & Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

7 Vines Vineyard

Rustic Roots Winery

7 Vines Vineyard

July 18 Farmers & Artisans Market 4p-7p

July 18 Puzzle Night 6p – 8p

July 18 Music: Rocking Hollywoods 6p – 9p

July 18 Trivia Night 7p – 9p

July 18 Live Music 4p – 7p

July 19 Art at the Winery, Paint & Sip

July 19 Smug Pug Food Truck 4p – 8p

July 20 TBD 1p-4p

July 20 Wicked Wine Run

July 21 Candle Pouring Experience 2p-5p

July 21 Music: Matt & Laurel 3p-6p

July 21 Music: Steve Poynter 2p – 5P

July 23 Yoga in the Vineyard 6p-7p

July 23 BINGO

6:30p-8p

July 24 Cribbage Tournament 6p-7p

July 24 Music: TBA 5:30p – 8:30p

July 25 Love Your Gut Sourdough Workshop

5:30p-7p

July 25 Trivia Night 7p – 9p

July 25 Live Music 4p – 7p

July 25 Music: 70’s Magic Sunshine Band6p – 9p

Saigon Delicious Food Truck 4p – 8p

Music: TBD 1p-4p

Brick Oven Bus 2p – 7p

Glass Mosics Class 2p-5p

Music: Riverside Unplugged 3p-6p

Yoga in the Vineyard 6p-7p

Trivia with Ryan 6:30p-8p

Monthly Book Club Meeting 5:30p-6:30p

Music: TBA 5:30 – 8:30

Saturdays Tastings & Tours 12p – 1P

Rustic Roots Winery

Belle Ame Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

Belle Ame Vineyard

Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Big Wood Brewery

Saint Croix Vineyards

Rustic Roots Winery

7 Vines Vineyard

Rustic Roots Winery

7 Vines Vineyard

Rustic Roots Winery

Belle Ame Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

Saint Croix Vineyards

Big Wood Brewery

Saint Croix Vineyards

Rustic Roots Winery

7 Vines Vineyard

Two Silo Winery & Vineyard

Saturdays Tasting Party 2p – 3p Two Silo Winery & Vineyard

Vineyard S

COPS&COURTS

POLICE REPORTS

The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following incidents:

• An officer received a call to contact a citizen regarding a driving complaint in the 6500 block of Gaage Lane June 11. The officer spoke with the caller regarding the complaint, and then spoke with the parent of the juvenile who was involved.

• A caller advised officers of an ordinance violation and requested extra patrol in the 400 block of Lois Lane June 11. The officer documented the complaint and advised extra patrol would be provided.

• An officer responded to a report of a vehicle abandoned in a driveway in the 6200 block of Hodgson Road June 11. The officer verified the vehicle was not stolen but there was no available registration information. The vehicle was removed via a private tow

• An officer took a report regarding forged checks in the 600 block of Town Center June 11. The officer documented the incident and provided the victim a case number. The investigation is ongoing.

• An officer responded to the parking lot of a park in the 6600 block of West Shadow Lake Drive where a resident had found a wallet June 12. The officer was able to return the wallet to its owner and nothing was reported missing.

• An officer received a call of a tree blocking the roadway near Lilac Street and Leonard Avenue June 12. It was determined a vehicle struck the tree causing damage to the vehicle. The tree was removed from the roadway.

• An officer assisted another agency with a high-risk traffic stop and taking the driver into custody in the 1900 block of Main Street in Centerville June 13.

• An officer assisted the Anoka County SWAT Team with a search warrant in the 4100 block of Polk Street NE in Columbia Heights June 13. The officer cleared once the occupants were secured.

• A caller reported a possible fraud in the 700 block of Main Street June 13. The officer investigated and found there was no information to identify a suspect. The case is inactive pending new information.

• An officer responded to a property damage hit and run accident near Birch Street and Ware Road June 13. The officer investigated and a suspect was identified and issued a citation.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for an equipment violation near Lake Drive and Main Street June 13. An open container of marijuana was located and confiscated. The driver was released at the scene.

• An officer on patrol located a structure fire at a residence in the 300 block of Thomas Street June 14. Multiple fire agencies responded and put out the fire.

• An officer took a delayed theft report from the 6700 block of Hodgson Road June 15. The incident was documented and is under investigation.

• An officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 1100 block of Birch Street June 15 and found the driver to be underage and under the influence. The driver was cited for underage drinking and driving and released to a sober party.

• An officer on patrol observed a tree down blocking the roadway in the 6300 block of Holly Drive June 16. Public works responded and the tree was removed off the roadway.

• An officer took a phone call regarding an animal complaint in the 7000 block of Rice Lake Drive June 16. The officer made phone contact with the complainant who was uncooperative and hostile. The phone call was terminated.

• An officer responded to a vehicle fire on the I-35W freeway ramp to Lake Drive June 16. The fire was extinguished, and the vehicle was towed from the scene.

• An officer took a report of a scam in the 6500 block of Albert Court June 17. The victim did not lose any money and the incident was documented.

• A community service officer responded to a phone call for an aggressive animal in the 8000 block of Aenon Place June 17. The incident was documented, and the caller was advised of steps to take in future situations.

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:

• Officers responded to the 2000 block of Michaud Way in Centerville on June 12 regarding a medical emergency. The patient was treated by EMS.

• Officers were dispatched to the 69000 block of Tourville Circle in Centerville on June 12. Officers assisted in conducting a medical assessment. An ambulance transported the patient for further evaluation and treatment.

• On June 13, a community officer was dispatched to the area around East Road for an abandoned bicycle in Circle Pines.

• Officers were dispatched to the 4000 block of Lovell Road in Lexington on June 13 to assist in a medical emergency. The officers made contact with a male at the scene, who was then transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for further review.

• Officers responded to an animal complaint on June 13 in the 8800 block of Arona Avenue in Lexington. The officers gathered information from a female resident over the phone. The animal was taken to a nearby vet for further review.

• Officers conducted a traffic stop on June 14 at the intersection of Lake Drive. and Lexington Avenue in Lexington. for an equipment violation.

• Officers were dispatched to the intersection of Oak Leaf and Shady Way on June 14 on reports of a male yelling. Officers located the male in the 0 block of Shady way. No crime had occurred.

• Officers responded to the 7200 block of Main Street in Centerville on June 15 to a property damage report.

• Officers were dispatched to the area of Main Street and 20th Avenue in Centerville on June 16 to reports of a child walking in the roadway.

• Officers responded to the 300 block of Heritage Trail in Circle Pines on June 15 on reports of a child having difficulty breathing.

• Officers were dispatched to the 6900 block of Lamotte Drive in Centerville on June 17 on suspicious juvenile acidity. The legal guardians were advised of the issue. No further action was taken.

• Officers encountered a female on June 18 in the 7300 block of Main Street in Centerville who appeared to be in distress. The female requested a ride to the campgrounds. A courtesy ride was given.

CLASSIFIEDS

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• Resident Telly Foley says she has an ash tree in her yard that is infested with emerald ash borer, per confirmation from the Department of Agriculture. Foley explains that this invasive species can be damaging to the environment and that she may be facing a fine due to not removing the tree during the summer, when the Department of Agriculture advised her to wait until fall to remove it. City Administrator Bill Petracek explained to Foley that presenting evidence to the city

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275 20 03 Toyota 4Runner

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forester of emerald ash borer could grant her an extension for removal.

• Lexington will make $39,270 by selling equipment on Govdeals. com. Equipment sold includes a lawnmower, a street sweeper and a snow blower. City Administrator Bill Petracek says they “did a lot better than they thought” due to the age of the equipment, and that the only equipment not sold were two fire hydrants out of ten that were listed.

• Minnesota Custom Exteriors, a local roofing contractor, has applied for and received

Seeking Choir Director

a solicitor/peddler’s license.

• Liquor license renewals have been granted to Poncho’s Taqueria and Cafe and Carbone’s. El Loro will be approved once paperwork is submitted.

• The city has reached an agreement for benefits for non-union and management level employees. Juneteenth will now be considered a holiday, and workers can expect up to $1,435 per month to be contributed to health insurance.

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Work Schedule: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (With the potential for one day a week at home if desired) 2024 Compensation: Hiring Range will be between $30.40-$32.98, DOQ plus an excellent benefits package. Apply: For more information and to apply; visit the Employment Opportunities section of the Town’s website: www.whitebeartownship.org. Send Resume and Town application by end of day June 24, 2024.

• Jonathan Spitzer is the new director of buildings and grounds for the Centennial School District. Previously, Spitzer was a facilities manager in the Fridley School District.

• Centennial High School’s gym roof is now scheduled to be replaced next summer. The high school’s turf and track will be replaced next year too. The Blue Heron Elementary School roof replacement project has been pushed back to 2029. The changes were due to outside recommendations from the district’s contractors,

• The school district has acquired the property located at 4896 103rd Lane NE., Circle Pines. It is yet to be decided what the district will do with the land.

• Centennial School District has renewed its membership contract with the Minnesota State High

The City of Hugo, a rapidly growing suburb in Washington County, is seeking a recent graduate or qualified undergraduate or graduate student in the urban planning or related field to work as a community development intern. The salary is $18.00/hour. We anticipate the position to run at least six months and estimate a 40-hour work week. The internship program offers an opportunity to work on a wide range of areas and issues related to community development. The full job description and application are available on the City’s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us/employment, or at Hugo City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Ave. N., Hugo, MN 55038.

Please send your cover letter, resume, and completed application to Rachel Juba at Rjuba@ci.hugo.mn.us.

Application deadline is Friday, July 12, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.

School League (MSHL) for the 202425 school year.

• Superintendent Jeff Holmberg received a positive performance review. The school board provided Superintendent Holmberg three goals to focus on going into next school year.

• According to Superintendent Holmberg, current enrollment for the Summer Academy is around 100 students. In previous years, it has been around 75-85 student participants.

The school board’s next work study session is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 1. The next regular board meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 15, at the District Office.

Developer pulls out of LaLonde property project

LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The shocking development turned out to be no development. At least not at the LaLonde property. At least not now.

The Centerville City Council, along with the crowds planning to attend the June 12 meeting might have gotten a good night’s sleep and eaten a substantial dinner to best face what was expected to be a marathon Tax Increment Financing public hearing associated with the development of the LaLonde property at 1687 Westview St.

Instead, everyone went home early and maybe out to dinner again, after the developer, Ten Nineteen Development, LLC, withdrew their application for a preliminary plan and conditional use permit for a planned unit development just prior to the meeting.

Before council was a resolution to approve the modification of the development program for the development district, establishing a tax increment financing district therein and approving a tax increment financing plan for the

LaLonde property and surrounding area.

Although council canceled the public hearing, the public was given an opportunity to speak during a regular public forum.

Centerville citizens came to make their voices heard, and that is what some of them stayed to do. Nine people from the crowd that half-filled the emergency large spaces of St. Genevieve’s Parish Center hammered out their own version of the night’s main theme.

Now is the city’s chance to reexamine its planning documents before the next development proposal comes to town, they said.

During the public hearing sessions preceding the meeting, citizens were told the city must make its decision based on the existing law, and that it could not rewrite the 2006 master plan when a development was in motion.

Now, with no development proposal currently underway, is the time to revisit the 2006 master plan, the zoning code and the comprehensive plan, nearly all of the nine speakers advised.

Ultimately, the speakers said the development proposal failed on its

own because it was incompatible with the small-town nature of the city. Now, the city has an opportunity to write harmonious development into the books by reworking its three planning documents, the citizens said. By rewriting its zoning documents, it would be easier for the city to deny a future proposal that caused the amount of consternation that the recent LaLonde proposal caused. This is because denial can only come about if the proposal violates the city’s planning documents. The current planning documents left too much leeway for the developer in the minds of the public and few reasons that were legal enough to deny development applications, if that was what the city was inclined to do.

“High density development (as proposed in the LaLonde project) was just not an appropriate fit for Centerville on most the iconic and picturesque corner of town. Please revisit the master plan,” resident Heather Carciofini said.

Another citizen called on council to consider rezoning in the master plan and make the LaLonde land into single-family homes. “It’s a beautiful place that will tell people how

beautiful Centerville is,” she said.

Resident Anita Rios noted that “people are paying attention and are engaged here in Centerville” and said the master plan needed to be updated. The master plan, as the guiding document for all development around Centerville, was based on citizen input in 2006 and may not represent the views of current citizens, she said. Planning and Zoning Commissioner Jeannie Seppala said during the time she was immersed in the zoning code, comprehensive plan and master plan, she discovered these plans to be inconsistent with each other and found that evaluating them was burdensome both to the planning commission and to the developer. She asked council to put a moratorium on accepting all planned unit developments, until contradictions in these plans have been resolved.

Mayor D. Love said council members couldn’t respond to public forum comments but said council would either direct staff to put some type of summary on the agenda or compile a response document for the planning commissioners to study.

Cougar alums compete in college sports

The following Centennial graduates competed in college athletics this spring: Will Whelan, Minnesota Gopher freshman pitcher, appeared in 17 games, all in relief, throwing 18 2/3 innings, notching a 1-0 record and one save. He allowed 13 hits, 19 walks and 15 runs, while striking out 26. The Gophers were 25-23. Whelan was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week in late April for throwing 5 1/3 innings in three appearances, allowing just one run, and picking up a save against Penn State with 1

SPORTS BRIEFS

BASEBALL

2/3 scoreless innings.

Other highlights were getting the win against St. Olaf with a two-inning stint (one run), three scoreless innings in a win over Michigan State, 3 1/3 scoreless innings in a win over St. Thomas, and three innings (one run) in a loss to Iowa.

Whelan is playing with Willmar in the Northwoods League this summer.

Landen Liu, who was a 200-meter state champion in high school, ran for Bethel. A sophomore, he placed second in the MIAC meet in the 100 dash in

Centennial had two all-conference picks — pitcher/ first baseman Aiden Lieser and shortstop Peyton Streit — while honorable mentions went to pitchers Josh Lee and Tyler Gruye and infielder Tyler Escobedo. All five are seniors. The Cougars were 12-12 overall, 4-8 in conference and 2-2 in the section. Lieser pitched 42.7 innings with 61 strikeouts, a 2.13 earned-run-average and 3-3 record. Lieser led with 22 runs-batted-in (RBI) while batting .400 with two homers, seven doubles and 12 runs. Streit led with a .436 batting average and 19 runs. He had eight RBI’s. Jack Dagostino hit .246 with 13 RBI’s. Jacob Hosfeld hit .333 in 11 games. Gruye pitched 37.7 innings with 23 strikeouts, a 3.35 earned-run average (ERA) and 4-3 record. Lee pitched 45.7 innings with 57 strikeouts, a 2.45 ERA and 3-3 record. Luke Gunderman, the closer, had a 1.15 ERA in 24.3 innings over 11 games, notching three saves and a 2-2 record.

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS

• The new owners (Prince Pal Singh) of the Liquor Barrel at 1875 Main St. will take over the current liquor license, after council unanimously approved an Off-Sale Liquor License and Tobacco License for the establishment, effective July 1. The applicant

10:37, and ran the first leg of the first-place 4x100 relay team.

Bryn Ruberg, St. Benedict’s sophomore catcher, batted .302 with a .403 on-base percentage in 44 games. She had 38 hits and 12 walks and was hit-by-pitch 10 times. St. Ben’s was 19-24.

Abby Lohse, Minot State junior outfielder, batted .292 in 41 games, with three homers and nine doubles among her 39 hits. She had nine stolen bases and 13 walks. Minot was 19-24.

Helene Krage was the No. 4 pitcher for an outstanding Augustana University (S.D.) softball team that finished 50-15 and reached Division II nationals. She appeared in 11 games (seven starts), posting a 3-1 record and 2.15 earned-runaverage in 39 innings, with 17 strikeouts.

Montana Miller, sophomore pitcher at Hamline, appeared in 25 games, seven of them starts. She had a 3-3 record, two saves, and a 3.78 earned-run-average in 63 innings, with 19 strikeouts. The Pipers were 20-16.

Readers who want to call other college athletes to our attention may send a message to bruce.a.strand@gmail.com.

Bruce Strand

BOYS LACROSSE

Centennial had five players named to the AllNorthwest Suburban team: midfielders Brol Scherman and Kellen Krumwiede, goalie Trenton Kramer, attacker Logan Adams and defenseman Jake Robinson, all seniors. Named All-Section 7 were Scherman, Adams, Krumwiede and senior midfielder Gavin Jorud. The Cougars were 10-9 overall, 6-2 in conference, won the section, and went 0-2 at state. All-conference honorable mentions went to LaCroix, Jorud and junior Larson Goerlitz. Additional honors for Scherman were Star-Tribune All-Metro first team and coaches association allstate. The leading scorers (goals-assists-points) were Adams (55-29-84), Scherman (56-22-78), Krumweide (35-27-62), Cunningham (22-24-46), Solomon Marshall (22-8-30) and Jorud (17-9-26). Kramer had a .519 save percentage. Sam Lewis, face-off specialist, won 52% of face-offs.

Scherman collects lacrosse honors

Brol Scherman, Centennial lacrosse captain, was named to the Star-Tribune’s All-Metro first team last week, while closing his career playing in his second state tournament. Scherman was also a finalist for the Mr. Lacrosse award. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound attacker logged 56 goals and 22 assists for a team that went 10-9 against a daunting schedule. In his career, Scherman racked up 162 goals and 68 assists, helping the Cougars win 47 of 68 games. He will play college lacrosse at Marquette University in Michigan.

GIRLS LACROSSE

Four Centennial players were named to the AllNorthwest Suburban team: midfielder Noelle Hemr, goalie Peyton Brezny, attacker Karley Lacis and defenseman Maria Waller, all seniors. Honorable mentions went to senior Madeline Perron; juniors Avery Sauber and Ella Weist; Sophomores Lillian Brause and Makenzi Munger. Leading scorers (goals-assists-points) were Hemr (32-18-50), Weist (27-3-30), Lacis (21-5-26), Munger (13-1326) and Brausen (17-4-21). Brezny had a .404 save percentage. The Cougars were 9-6 overall and 5-4 in conference, and were section runner-up.

Bruce Strand

submitted all appropriate applications and fees and received a successful background check through the Centennial Lakes Police Department.

• The much-celebrated St. Genevieve’s annual Parish Festival and Chicken Dinner, scheduled for Aug. 18 from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m., will go on as planned, after council unanimously approved its request for a special event permit on private property, temporary on-sale liquor license and temporary gambling license. The police department, the Centennial Fire District and the public works department all approved of the event.

• The city has applied for and received a grant in the amount of $5,000 for the Smart Irrigation Controller Rebate Program from the Metropolitan Council. City staff petitioned council to waive the plumbing permit fee of at least $41 required for the inspection of the replacement controller, which council did.

• After 22 years of volunteer service with the city, Parks & Recreation Committee member Suzanne Seeley tendered her resignation/retirement. Council

Member Raye Taylor thanked Seeley personally and on behalf of the city. “At one time, I thought I was the longest standing volunteer for the city, until I discovered how long Suzanne has been active,” Mayor D. Love said. “But now I may have moved up in the standings,” he said. Seeley thanked the city for the opportunity to serve the community, saying she enjoyed every minute of it. With Seeley’s Parks & Recreation Committee seat now vacant, there is now another opportunity for someone to serve the community, Love said.

The council next meets at 6:30 p.m., Monday, July 24 at City Hall, 1880 Main St.

Loretta Harding

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA | CONTRIBUTED

Will Whelan was Big Ten freshman of the week in late April with the Gophers.

CONTRIBUTED

Brol Scherman posed at Marquette University after signing to play lacrosse there.

The following students were named to the Dean’s list or received academic honors at a college or university in Spring 2024:

Bemidji State University: April Ost of Circle Pines; Shannon Bierdeman, Ashley Crowl, Caden Lick, Mary Powers, and Dawn Reckinger, all of Lino Lakes.

Bradley University: Frederick Frederisckson of Lino Lakes.

George Fox University: Todd Rylaarsdam of Circle Pines.

Hamline University: Max Ganske and Allison Sime, both of Circle Pines.

Iowa State University: Laura Branch, Joseph Cassidy, Hailey Helvig, Amanda Kufner, Jenna Molin, Connor Payne, Nathan Reff, Anton Schreyer and Nathan Strom, all of Lino Lakes.

Minnesota State University Mankato: Cheyenna Tourville of Circle Pines; Jake Pletsch, Abbi Williams and Alexis Grabau, all of Lino Lakes.

North Dakota State University: Surra Birru, Mikayla Jean Engebritson, Kevin Hanson, Emily Honsa, Tyler Larson, Tam Le, Sam Lyke, and Stephanie Weinke, all of Circle Pines; Brooke Cina, Katie Ferrand, Bella Jurgens, Anna Kate Lundeen, Bryce Norman and Abigail Zimmerman, all of Lino Lakes.

Quincy University: Zackary Springhorn of Circle Pines.

South Dakota State University: Maximus Theis of Circle Pines; Carsen Johnson of Lino Lakes.

St. Norbert College: Zachary Embacher of Circle Pines.

University of Iowa: Aidan Dockendorf, Maisy Dockendorf and Cecilia Shearonof, all of Lino Lakes.

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: Claire Goodreau, Nicole Lange and Aaron Skrypek, all of Lino Lakes.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay: Jenna Guyer of Circle Pines. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse: Abby Gerst, Jacob Mackie, and Kiera Selbitschka, all of Circle Pines; Grant Albin, Ellie Breunig, Ellie Brophy, Riley Gent, Samantha Gerten, Abby Glancey, Courtney Osmek and Christina Ries, all of Lino Lakes.

University of Wisconsin-Madison: Andi Koslowski, Kate Paulson, and Avery Weinke, all of Circle Pines; Kaitlyn Davis, Kevin Jansa, Tevis Linser, Julia Schultz, Elisabeth Slaga and Derrick Thomas, all of Lino Lakes.

University of Wisconsin-Superior: Nikki Thaemlitz of Lino Lakes.