Company pioneers horse-human healing sessions
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Horses have long been known to provide a calming sensation to the humans they interact with. According to the HeartMath Institute, when both interact in a relaxed state, a horse’s heart rhythm will synchronize in conjunction with a human’s, creating a calming atmosphere for both.
At Three Little Burdes Pony Company, Founder and Director Krystal Sieben has crafted her business to illustrate this bond and create a therapeutic venture for customers, particularly those who have physical handicaps and special needs.
“We see kids who are in wheelchairs, have spina bifida or other limitations where they wouldn’t be able to get up onto a horse,” said Sieben. “My goal with the community is to introduce underserved populations to the magic of being around horses and how fun and confidence-building it can be.”
The history of Three Little Burdes is a beginning tied to Sieben’s struggles, particularly the difficulty she faced in finding help for her son, Teddy, who was diagnosed with autism in 2015.
SEE HORSE THERAPY, PAGE 5
Lakes, Hugo residents
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Lino Lakes and Hugo residents may have a new place to shop for groceries.
ISG submitted an ALDI site and building plan review to the Lino Lakes Planning and Zoning Commission, whose members unanimously agreed to send it to the City Council.
The grocery store would be located south of Main Street, east of I-35E and west of Otter Lake Road in Lino Lakes, near the border with Hugo. Currently, the 28-acre site includes three existing lots. The site is zoned General Business (GB) and is
guided commercial per the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Katie Larsen, city planner, said that staff requested that the applicants submit a master plan for the site. A master plan, also known as a ghost plat, lays out the potential future development of a site. It is not the final plan.
According to Larsen, the master plan shows the possibility of a medical clinic, a retail restaurant and an automotive store.
“This does not mean this is how the future site is going to build out,” Larsen explained regarding the master plan. “We wanted to make sure that the ALDI site was being laid out in a
fashion that we can best develop the rest of the site.”
She added that any future development of the two outlots shown within the preliminary plan, proposed by Thyme Properties LLC, will require a preliminary plat and final plat.
The proposed ALDI store will be approximately 19,437 square feet. Its main access will be at Main Street and 70th Street. There will be a stormwater pond located on the west side of the property. Wetlands on the site will not be impacted.
Wargo Nature Center puts on Maple Syrup Festival
Learn about the tradition of gathering maple sap and cooking it down to make maple syrup and sugar at the Maple Syrup Festival from noon-2 p.m. Saturday, March 22, at the Wargo Nature Center. Those who attend will be able to go through the syrup process, make maple crafts, participate in a scavenger hunt and more.
CONTRIBUTED
Krystal Sieben started Three Little Burdes Pony Company in 2022 to offer free, therapeutic experiences with horses and ponies. From left to right are Ada (daughter), Krystal (mother), Beau (son), Tom (husband, center back) and Teddy (son) with their horse, Syver.
ALDI: Master plan shows supermarket, medical clinic, restaurant and auto store
• Resident Chris Stow raised concerns about the possibility of multiple culverts flooding near the Pine Street neighborhood. These culverts are under the jurisdiction of the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD). Stow also raised concerns about the maintenance of drainage ditches in the area.
• The council has acknowledged the gambling permit submitted by St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church, with no waiting period. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement division issues exempt permits to nonprofit organizations that conduct lawful gambling on five or fewer days and awards less than $50,000 in prizes during a calendar year. This is not a regular gambling permit that requires City Council resolution. Instead, the city is asked to acknowledge the permit by either requiring no waiting period or a 30-day waiting period or denying the application outright.
LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• Nutrition Den, a smoothie and tea bar, is now open, according to City Administrator Bill Petracek. It is located at 9374 Lexington Ave. NE, Circle Pines.
• Council Member Barbara Mahr will serve as treasurer for the Cable Commission. She informed the council that the commission will be holding a meeting to find a new executive director.
• The council approved a special event permit for the City Heart Charities annual Ride and Raffle
CALENDAR BRIEFS
FROM PAGE 1
“There is a trail along Main Street, so we want to at least have a sidewalk come into the development off of Main and along 70th,” Larsen said when discussing what revisions city staff asked to be made to the site plan.
She added that staff requested additional revisions be made to rear setbacks, parking and drive lanes within the lot, landscaping and outdoor lighting.
According to the staff report, a traffic study was completed. The study analyzed the Main Street and I-35E southbound and northbound ramps, the Main Street and Otter Lake Road intersection and the Main Street and the Frenchman Road/Osborne Road and Victor Hugo Boulevard intersection.
The study analyzed a Phase 1 development scenario that included a supermarket, fast food and retail spaces. Phase 1 of the development is expected to generate 1,658 new weekday daily trips.
• City staff have asked council to consider transferring existing city right-of-way to Ramsey County for the reconstruction of the I-35E/County Road J interchange improvement project. County Road J, between Centerville Road and Otter Lake Road, is under the jurisdiction of multiple road authorities. The city of Lino Lakes, Anoka County, Ramsey County and MnDOT each share a responsibility for certain portions of the road. The north half of County Road J at Centerville Road and 20th Avenue is under the city’s jurisdiction. Ramsey County proposes to take over as the responsible road authority for this section. This would allow the county to designate this as a state aid roadway. Staff are continuing to work with Anoka and Ramsey counties regarding the ownership of the right of way.
• The council has approved a joint powers agreement (JPA) for sanitary sewer service in
on June 1 at Cowboy’s Saloon.
City Heart Charities is a nonprofit that directly supports first responders and their families.
• The council approved a quote of approximately $13,450 from Minnesota Equipment Inc. for a new John Deere lawn mower for the city. According to City Administrator Bill Petracek, the estimated delivery for the lawn mower is May 2025.
• The council approved a memorandum of understanding
Anoka County Historical Society puts on fundraiser
The Anoka County Historical Society will stage a murder mystery-themed fundraiser Saturday, April 5, at the Bunker Hills Golf Course, 12800 Bunker Prairie Road NW, Minneapolis.
Guests who attend the “Murder at Sea” fundraiser can choose to be a character in the murder mystery or an innocent bystander. As characters, guests receive a packet before the event that reveals the background information and details of their goals in the story.
Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m., where guests will be able to bid on silent auction items. Characters will be introduced, and clues will be announced as appetizers circulate during this time.
For more information, or to purchase a ticket, go to anokacountyhistory.org/murder-at-sea-2025.
Make macarons with Centennial Community Education
Learn how to make macarons with Community Education from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, March 27. The class will take place at Centennial High School,
with Centennial Lakes Little League to relocate a light pole at Memorial Park Field No. 2 to improve visibility during nighttime ball games.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 20, at City Hall.
East Campus, in room 110.
Attendees will learn how to make three different kinds of macarons: blueberry, lemon and pink cookie that can either be cherry or strawberry. Participants will bake and assemble one recipe from start to finish. They will also decorate and assemble the two other recipes.
Registration is required and can be done so through the Community Education website at communityed.isd12.org. The class is suitable for those ages 18 and up.
Chain of Lakes Rotary hosts ‘Bingo and Bling’
The Chain of Lakes Rotary will host its annual Chain of Giving fundraiser, “Bingo and Bling,” from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, March 29, at the Peder Pedersen Pavilion in Hugo for the Rotary’s local scholarship and international youth exchange program.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online at chainoflakesrotary.com. Ticket includes dinner and one bingo card for all games played during the event. Additional cards will be available for purchase. Peder Pedersen Pavilion is located at 5524 Upper 146th St. N. in Hugo.
Lino Lakes Planning and Zoning Board Chair Michael Root shared his thoughts about the project. “It is nice to see this area being developed, because it’s been really building up in that area,” he said. Board Member Isaac Wipperfurth said he thinks it would be a good idea to have a sidewalk on both sides of the private drive located on the site on 70th Street. “I think in the future there is probably going to be a walkway along Otter Lake Road, and people may exit the site both directions. It would avoid a crosswalk, depending on where they come onto that sidewalk.”
The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval 6-0 (Board Member Perry Laden was not present).
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
the cities of Lino Lakes and Shoreview after the property owner of 435 Ash Street requested to connect to the city of Shoreview’s sanitary sewer system. Their existing onsite individual sewer system is failing, and Lino Lakes does not currently have municipal utilities available. A JPA is required to address the maintenance, connections fees and use charges. The JPA has been reviewed and approved by Shoreview city staff. Once approved by Lino Lakes, it will be presented to the Shoreview City Council.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, March 24, at City Hall, followed by a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Madeline Dolby
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Lino Lakes Police Department welcomes new officer
Officer Jordan Oleson is the newest member of the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department team. He recently completed the Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training program at Hennepin Technical College. Oleson will now take part in the department’s new officer training program.
Public safety entities investigate death in Blaine
At approximately 9:28 a.m. on Friday, March 7, the Blaine Police Department, Spring Lake ParkBlaine-Mounds View (SBM) Fire Department and Allina EMS were dispatched to the 1900 block of 131st Avenue NE in Blaine on a report of a female infant not breathing.
Upon arrival, responders administered lifesaving measures to the infant. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was declared deceased. At this time, no foul play is suspected.
The incident is in the early stages of the investigation by the Blaine Police Department, Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office. No further information was available at the time of press deadline.
Anoka Masonic Lodge donates fire suppression units
The Anoka Masonic Lodge has donated 40 fire suppression units to the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office. Fire suppression units are used to knock down flames, as they significantly reduce temperatures by up to 1,000 degrees in 30 seconds and can cut water usage to put out a fire by as much as 80%.
The proposed ALDI grocery store would be built at the southeast corner of I-35E and Main Street in Lino Lakes.
LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
Hannah Testa
Jordan Oleson
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
LINO LAKES TOASTMASTERS CLUB
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays
Where: Zoom
Details: Develop communication and leadership skills. Contact: Phyllis Moore: 763-268-9366
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. March 20; 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.
Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.” Contact: (651) 783-0055
CRIBBAGE
When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, March 24; the 4th Monday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th St. N., Hugo
Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-429-4413
‘THE BOOK CLUB PLAY’
When: March 14-23
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake Details: Comedy performance about books and the people who love them. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
ST. JOHN’S MEN’S CLUB FISH FRY
When: 4:30 -7:30 p.m. Fridays, through April 11
Where: Church of St. Genevieve, 14383 Forest Blvd. N., Hugo
Contact: stgens.org/mens-club
CURRENT EVENTS
ST. JOSEPH OF THE LAKES LENTEN SOUP DINNER
When: 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 18; March 25
Where: St. Joseph of the Lakes, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes Details: Organized by the Knights of Columbus. Proceeds will be split between the Centennial Food Shelf and the St. Joseph’s Charity Fund. Contact: 651-784-3015
MAPPING NORTHWEST MAIN OPEN HOUSE
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 19
Where: The Rookery, 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes Details: Residents are able to provide feedback about the future development of the property, ask questions and meet with city staff. Contact: https://mappingnwmain.com/
ST. JOSEPH OF THE LAKES FISH FRY
When: 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 21
Where: St. Joseph of the Lakes, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes Details: Dinner includes pan fried or baked cod,
tomato-basil soup, roasted potatoes, green beans, creamy coleslaw, bread and more. Tickets sold at the door. Co-sponsored by the Men’s Groups and Knights of Columbus. Contact: 651-784-3015
THE WRITER’S ROOM: AN OPEN STUDIO FOR WRITERS
When: 1-4 p.m. Friday, March 21
Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave. Details: Write in the company of fellow writers in an inspiring space, led by Amber Guetebier. For adults and teens 16+, all levels. Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org
MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL
When: Noon-2 p.m. Saturday, March 22
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Learn about the tradition of gathering maple sap and cooking it down to make maple syrup and sugar. Go through the process, make maple crafts and participate in a spring scavenger hunt. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
NATIVE AMERICAN CELEBRATION
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, March 22
Where: Mariner Middle School, White Bear Lake Details: Event to celebrate the Native American community. Open to all.
Contact: manyfaceswblarea.org/events
‘HELLO MS. PERFECT’ BOOK CLUB
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25
Where: The Women Collective, 4716 Highway 61, White Bear Lake
Details: Author Amelia Reigstad, PhD, facilitates discussion of her women empowerment book. Ticket information online. Contact: thewomencollective.com
Blaine Food Trucks Season Kick-Off
When: 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, March 22
Where: Fleet Farm, 10250 Lexington Ave. NE., Blaine
Details: Kick off food truck season in Blaine. Features a variety of food trucks.
Contact: EggrollQueenfoodtruck@gmail.com
LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD MONTHLY MEETING
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25
Where: Shepherd of the Hills, rear entrance, Door G, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview
Details: Reverend Lisa Kip, from Lutheran World relief Quilt and Kit Ministry, will be speaking specifically about the efforts the provide quilts and kits through the world, the process and the warehouse in the southern Twin Cities area. Visitors are welcome. Contact: lakeshorequiltersmn.org
Mutt Damon, or just Damon, is full of love and affection, and he is anxiously awaiting his forever family and home. Damon is a 2-year-old Labrador retriever/ American bulldog mix and weighs about 73 pounds. His foster says Damon is the perfect blend of playful energy and affectionate snuggles. He is crate-trained and leash-trained, and he knows his basic commands. He is intelligent and eager to please. In addition to playing, Damon enjoys going for walks and exploring in the yard, so a home with a securely fenced yard would suit him well.
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
Damon is social with other dogs, and with cats, and he is friendly to everyone he meets. He would make a great addition to a home with children and/or with other pets. Damon arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local impound. If you’re looking for a sweet, loving companion who will make a wonderful addition to any home, Damon is waiting for you. If you are interested in learning more about Mutt Damon 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.
OPINION
Treat people with kindness, even journalists
Don’t get me wrong, I love my job, but I feel compelled to let you in on a “behind the scenes” view of what a journalist can sometimes deal with.
Recently, I wrote an article about how private insurance companies in Minnesota are now required to cover the costs of wigs for patients who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments.
I was subsequently contacted by a woman who read my story and wanted to know how she could donate her hair to be used for a wig. I didn’t have the answer to her question, so I reached out to my sources to learn more. Thirty minutes later I received an angry voicemail, followed by another one 3 minutes later and another one six minutes later.
Shannon’s Shenanigans
Shannon Granholm
The voicemails continued to get angrier and were filled with profanity. I understand it can be frustrating to not hear back from somebody for an extended period of time, but it hadn’t even been two hours since her first call. I wasn’t ignoring her, I was waiting until I heard back from my sources so I could give her more information on how to go about donating her hair.
Keep in mind that while I’m seeking that answer for her, I was also taking other phone calls, answering emails, writing stories and planning for future editions of several publications.
Or what about the time when I spent my Saturday volunteering with my husband, toddler and dogs to participate in a community parade in our VW bus and was confronted by someone calling me and my publication “fake news.”
I think back to when I interviewed for the position at Press Publications nine years ago, and our publisher, Carter Johnson, was hesitant to hire me because he was worried I didn’t have thick enough skin. I was honest with him in that I didn’t have thick skin, but hoped over time it was something I could develop.
And here I am all these years later, still receiving mean phone calls, voicemails, emails, letters or having run-ins that still affect me more than they should because I am human. Just because I’m a journalist, doesn’t mean I deserve to be yelled at, sworn at or threatened. Please think before you leave a nasty comment on social media, yell into the phone or send a nasty letter in the mail.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some of the kind things people have done and said to share that they appreciate me, the work I do and the newspaper they read. Like the time when a local author sent me a personalized illustration, thanking me for running information about his new book and sent me a couple of signed books for my son. Or the time when an artist was inspired to draw a portrait of my Angel Frosty after reading a column I wrote about grieving her loss. Or the time when a local mayor took the time out of a city council meeting to encourage people to read an article I had recently wrote in the paper. Every single kind note or letter I have received over the years hangs on a bulletin board in my office. Sometimes I just need to remind myself of the nice things people have said after an outpouring of mean. Perhaps that’s why one of the journalists I used to work with had a folder called “praise mail” dedicated to the nice emails that had come into his inbox.
As Thumper, the rabbit from Disney’s Bambi once said, “If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.”
Shannon Granholm
is the managing editor of Press Publications.
Carter
Shine light on unwelcome news and squash rumors
Newspapers at their foundation provide a living history of their communities. The reports include a mixture of good news and bad news.
Movers & Shakers
Jim Pumarlo
Gathering and reporting the good news comes rather easily and is volunteered by the sources. First responders are commended for their swift response to saving a life. The school district applauds the academic and athletic achievements of graduating seniors. A local manufacturer is honored for setting a safety record for consecutive days without a workplace accident. In contrast, gathering and reporting bad news can be challenging. Stories likely go unreported without some digging. A public safety director is quietly reprimanded after taking a pleasure ride on the city’s water patrol boat. A superintendent refuses to acknowledge the recommendation to close a school building until formal school board action. A worker loses fingers in an industrial accident.
I encourage Minnesotans to embrace and celebrate the efforts of newspapers to pursue and deliver information relevant to their communities during Sunshine Week, March 16-22. The observance is a nonpartisan collaboration among groups in the journalism, civic, education, government and private sectors that
Limited to 350 words. Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and
shines a light on the importance of public records and open government. Sharing unwelcome news up front takes a step toward quelling the rumor mill. Those who are forthcoming with circumstances typically see repercussions minimized.
Newspapers rightfully stand firmly on the letter of the law when seeking access to public information. Even more important, those hesitant to share what they perceive as unflattering news should consider two points.
First, think carefully about the spirit of openness – no matter what the law dictates. Public officials should place themselves in the position of friends and neighbors seeking answers from City Hall. Would they be satisfied with “no comment”?
Second, recognize the value of setting benchmarks for community conversation. Meeting in secret or withholding information fuels rumors. If gossip has reached the newspaper, those affected can rest assured it has circulated broadly. At minimum, hearsay exaggerates the facts. At worst, the whispers promote blatant falsehoods.
The opportunity to deliver facts straight from the source is one of the strongest arguments to share information. Citizens still may dismiss statements as a “company line,” but parameters have been set for community discussion.
The premise of openness should be embraced in the private sector too. Companies and individuals are not subject to the same laws as public bodies, but their news is equally important to the community and often
travels quickly.
Conflicts over the public’s right to know often focus on a specific meeting or document.
I vividly recall “news” passed along by my photographer when I sat behind the editor’s desk. Word had reached his son’s elementary school that a teacher at the middle school had lost all his fingers in a lab experiment. We promptly tracked the story. The superintendent set the record straight. The teacher lost a fingertip and all was handled very calmly and professionally.
Our first inquiry, however, went to the school principal. She refused comment, charging us with sensationalism. A few minutes later she called and canceled her newspaper subscription without even seeing our report. I’ll stand by our decision to pursue and publish the story. I’m certain we prevented a lot of misinformed dinner talk that evening. We all can likely relate to the spirit of openness as youths when we tried to hide bad behavior from our parents. The truth inevitably surfaced, and we bore the brunt of punishment. Lesson: Be up front.
During Sunshine Week, we pay tribute to the millions of readers who invite newspapers into their homes each day. I speak firsthand from my years sitting behind the editor’s desk. We enjoy the relationships we’ve made, and we hope our readers do, too.
Jim Pumarlo is a member of the Minnesota Newspaper Association. He can be reached at jim@pumarlo.com.
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.
Circulation
Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification. 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.
HORSE THERAPY: Company plans to expand to Hugo stable this spring
FROM PAGE 1
“The sad and difficult part of autism was never my son — the reaction to him was,” Sieben wrote in an article, “Healing and a Horse Named Chadwick,” for the website “Her View From Home.” “I wasn’t prepared for the isolation that came with autism, the aloneness I felt. Unkind words and unsolicited advice about this beautiful baby who I loved so deeply.”
Through meeting a horse named Chadwick, Sieben felt a shift in her sadness. Chadwick’s previous owner, a veteran with PTSD, was no longer able to look after him due to his condition. Over the years, their further interactions helped Sieben hold a more positive outlook on her isolation. “In those moments, Chadwick was doing something for me no one else could,” Sieben wrote. “He was bringing me back to myself. He was taking away my buried sadness. He was lifting the invisible weight from my heart.”
Sieben said that starting Three Little Burdes, which opened at Morningstar Farm in Stillwater in 2022, was a way to give others this same healing experience for new and returning clients. The nonprofit company offers free interactions with horses and ponies. While clients cannot ride the animals (some have physical handicaps that prevent them from doing so), they can walk with, feed and brush the animals, all while Sieben maintains a safe environment for those involved.
“I speak with every person before they come out for a visit to make sure that I know of any accommodations,” said Sieben. “I always assure moms who have kids with autism that sometimes, when it’s over, there
PUBLIC
are tantrums and tears, and I let them know that that’s okay. I try to be a very understanding and welcoming person, being a special needs parent myself.”
Sieben, who is also a professional photographer, typically takes three to five photos per experience, gifting physical copies to each participating person/family afterward.
In describing Three Little Burdes, Sieben said being the mother of a son with autism helped shape her vision to cater to customers with or without special needs. “When you have one child with special needs and others that don’t, it’s hard to find family activities that everyone will enjoy,” said Sieben. “But whenever we’re at the barn, everyone enjoys it. My daughter, Ada, would hop on her pony and ride around, and Teddy is out in the open and can interact with the horses with no problem. It’s a positive for the whole family, and shaped my vision to be a welcoming place where if you have one special needs child and a typical child going to see horses, it’s fun for everyone.”
Since opening in Stillwater, the company has expanded to include a location at Pine Meadow Farm in Hudson, Wisconsin (which opened in late 2023), and a planned spring 2025 opening at Woodloch Stable in Hugo. Each location features one horse that is specifically trained to help cater to special-needs customers. Sieben chose a Norwegian Fjord horse named Syver, stabled at Morningstar Farm, due to the breed’s reputation as a therapy animal. “They’re often used in therapy because they’re patient, calm and don’t take off like a typical horse would if it were
scared,” said Sieben. “They’re really good in special needs therapeutic riding programs.”
Syver, who is 2, has been working with customers since he was 6 and is currently training to be a therapy horse.
At Pine Meadow Farm is 20-year-old Sunflower, a former lesson pony, who Sieben describes as “been there, done that, used to everything.
“She’s really good with toddlers and those with more severe special needs because of how small she is,” said Sieben. “Usually, if I have someone who hasn’t been with me before or has some limitations, I start with Sunflower because she’s like a big dog. She’s a safe intro to horses, and all the guests love her.”
For the Woodloch Stable location, Cougaroo, a former jumping horse, will be the designated animal. Now retired from jumping due to a leg injury, Cougaroo was gifted to the company by stable co-owner Ingvill Ramberg after learning of Sieben and her story. Those visiting the stable as part of Three Little Burdes will be allowed company-regulated interactions with Cougaroo. At the same time, stable-only customers will also be able to participate in riding lessons.
To learn more or donate to Three Little Burdes, please visit www.givemn.org/organization/ Three-Littles-Burdes-PonyCompany or follow them on Instagram at three_little_burdes.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1229 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com
CONTRIBUTED
Krystal’s daughter Ada shares a moment with Cougaroo, a former jumping horse, who will be at the company’s soon-tobe-open Hugo location this spring.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Meaningful column: ‘30 the new 50?’
I wanted to let you know how meaningful your column on diabetes and prediabetes was for me. And how much I related to it and the challenges that come with receiving an unexpected diagnosis.
I was so saddened to learn about your father’s journey with diabetes and his untimely death. I can’t imagine how hard that was for you or how much his story and experience weighs on you as you face your own diagnosis.
I appreciate that you shared such a personal experience and encourage you to continue to write and report on this important subject to help educate the community about this common health challenge. Please keep up the good work.
Cathy Broberg Lino Lakes
NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
CITY OF LINO LAKES
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 02-25
AMENDING CHAPTER 1007 (ZONING ORDINANCE) OF THE CITY CODE CONCERNING THE REGULATION OF CANNABIS BUSINESSES
The City Council of Lino Lakes ordains:
Section 1. Chapter 1007 (Zoning Ordinance) of the Lino Lakes City Code is hereby amended to include provisions relating to the regulation of cannabis and hemp business regulations. The ordinance amends the following sections:
1007.001:
Rules and Definitions provides definitions of Cannabis Related Businesses
1007.100 (5) establishes permitted uses within the R, Rural District
1007.130 (6) establishes permitted uses within the NB, Neighborhood Business District
1007.131 (6) establishes permitted uses within the LB, Limited Business District
1007.132 (6) establishes permitted uses within the GB, General Business District
1007.140 (7) establishes permitted uses within the LI, Light Industrial District
1007.141 (7) establishes permitted uses within the GI, General Industrial District
1007.142 (7) establishes permitted uses within the BC, Business Campus District
Section 2. This Ordinance shall be in force and effect from and after upon its passage and publication according to the Lino Lakes City Charter.
ADOPTED by the Lino Lakes City Council this 10th day of March, 2025. This is a summary of the adopted ordinance. A full printed copy of the ordinance is available at City Hall or on the City’s website at www.linolakes.us
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on March 18, 2025.
CITY OF LINO LAKES ORDINANCE NO. 03-25
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 218 OF CITY CODE RELATING TO CANNABIS BUSINESS REGISTRATION FEES
The City Council of Lino Lakes ordains:
Section 1. Chapter 218.01 (3) Business and miscellaneous is hereby amended to add the following fees:
Cannabis Retial Registration Fee (Initial Application) $ 500.00
Cannabis Retial Registration Fee (Renewal) $ 1,000.00
Lower Potency Hemp Retailer (Initial Application)
Adopted by the Lino Lakes City Council this 10th day of March, 2024. Published one time in the Quad Community Press on March 18, 2025.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
ORDINANCE NO. 04-25 FRANCHISE EXTENSION AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, effective upon passage and acceptance, between the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota (the “City”), and Comcast of Minnesota, Inc., a Minnesota corporation (“Comcast”).
WHEREAS, the City
television franchise ordinance accepted and agreed upon by Comcast (the “Franchise’);
WHEREAS, the City, is a member of the North Metro Telecommunications Commission (the “Commission”); WHEREAS, Comcast and the Commission are parties to (1) a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) dated January 29, 1996; (2) the 1997 Resolution Transferring Community Television Programming Responsibilities from Group W of the North Central Suburbs, d/b/a Meredith Cable to the North Central; and (3) the Franchise Settlement Agreement dated December 17, 2014 (collectively the “Agreements”); WHEREAS, the term of the Franchise expired on or about December 31, 2020, and Comcast continued to operate under the terms and conditions of the Franchise; and WHEREAS, the parties desire to extend the current Franchise and Agreements.
NOW, THEREFORE THE CITY OF LINO LAKES ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Section 2.4 of the Franchise is hereby amended by extending the term of such Franchise through and including June 30, 2030. The Parties do not waive any rights under Section 626 of the Federal Cable Act and agree that Grantee shall not be required to file an additional Section 626 Letter to preserve its rights to formal proceedings under the Franchise.
Section 2. Except as specifically modified hereby, the Franchise shall remain in full force and effect.
Section 3. Neither party waives any rights under law as a result of agreeing to this Franchise extension.
Section 4. The Agreements shall remain effective so long as Comcast, including any successors or assigns, continues to operate under the Franchise, including as it may be extended pending the completion of the renewal process. Neither the Commission nor Comcast may terminate the Agreements prior to renewal.
Passed and adopted this 10th day of March, 2025.
Rob Rafferty, Mayor
ATTEST: Roberta Colott, CMC, City Clerk
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on March 18, 2025. CITY OF CENTERVILLE COUNTY OF ANOKA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED MUNICIPAL
STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (2025 THIN MILL & OVERLAY)
AFFECTING THE FOLLOWING STREETS:
• SHAD AVENUE
from Centerville Road east to Dupre Road
• All of TOURVILLE CIRCLE
• All of OAK CIRCLE
• PHEASANT LANE from Center Street to 280’ north of Partridge Place
• DUPRE ROAD from 200’ south of Center St. to 200’
proposed
project on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at the City of Centerville, Council Chamber, 1880 Main Street, Centerville, MN 55038 commencing at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter to consider making the improvements pursuant to Minnesota Statute §429.011 to 429.111. The areas proposed to be assessed for such improvements are stated above. The estimated costs of the improvements are as follows: $647,797 city funding and $138,689 special assessments.
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.
Teresa Bender, City Clerk
Published in the Quad Community Press on March 11 & March 18, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF ANOKA DISTRICT COURT, TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 02-PR-25-69
NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (INTESTATE)
Estate of Jamie Donald Miels a/k/a Jamie D. Miels, Decedent
Notice is given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Registrar. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted.
Notice is also given that the Registrar has informally appointed Elizabeth Miels, whose address is 16930 3rd St. NE, Ham Lake, Minnesota, 55304, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed with the Court (pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Any objections to the appointment of the Personal Representative must be filed with this Court and will be heard by the Court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing.
Notice is also given that (subject to Minnesota Statutes section 524.3801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.
Dated: March 6, 2025 Pamela Kreier, Registrar H. Ann Basta, Court Administrator Attorney for Personal Representative
Paul D. Funke Funke Law
3820 Cleveland Ave. N., Suite 500, St. Paul, MN, 55112
Attorney License No: 0395366 Telephone: (651) 332-8700
Email: paul@funkelawoffice.com
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on March 18 and 25, 2025.
Sunshine Week: Our right to know
This week is Sunshine Week.
Sunshine Week is a nonpartisan collaboration among groups in the journalism, civic, education, government and private sectors that shines a light on the importance of public records and open government.
Sunshine Sunday began in Florida in 2002, led by the Florida Society of Newspaper Editors. National Sunshine Week was launched in 2005 by the American Society of Newspaper Editors with the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. In 2019, the American Society of News Editors merged with the Associated Press Media Editors to become the News Leaders Association.
As of Dec. 8, 2023, Sunshine Week is coordinated by the Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications.
Sunshine Week occurs each year in mid-March, coinciding with James Madison’s birthday, March 16 (1751). Madison was a driving force behind the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and presented the first version of the Bill of Rights to Congress. He also was the fourth president of the United States.
For more information, visit https://sunshineweek.org.
CITY BRIEFS
City of Lino Lakes serves as stop for Ragnar Relay Series
The city of Lino Lakes will serve as a stop point for the Ragnar Relay Series, a 200-mile relay race that starts in St. Paul and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, after the City Council authorized the issuance of a special event permit for the race. The race event plans include a stop point for runners at Eagle Brook Church on Aug. 8. It is anticipated that 230 teams comprised of 12 individuals and two vehicles will participate in the event. Teams will take turns running relay style to complete the course, picking up a runner and dropping off the next runner at each of the 36 exchange points along the course.
The race will not require any city road closures. Runners will use the road shoulders and sidewalks as available.
Blaine launches search for next city manager
The city of Blaine will begin a search for its next city manager after Michelle Wolfe, current city manager, announced her retirement. Wolfe has been with the city since September 2019 and will retire at the end of June.
A process in February took place for executive recruitment firms to submit proposals to the city council for consideration. The City Council has selected Strategic Government Resources (SGR) to conduct the search for the next city manager.
COUNTY BRIEF
Parks director recaps annual report
Jeff Perry, Anoka County parks director, provided the Anoka County Board of Commissioners with an overview of the Parks Department’s annual report. Perry noted that in 2024, there were just under 6 million visitors to Anoka County parks, around 11,000 camping nights, more than 26,000 rounds of golf play at Chomonix, and approximately 105,000 visitors to Bunker Beach Water Park.
More information about Anoka County Parks can be found at www. anokacountyparks.com.
BUSINESS BRIEF
Senior care service comes to Lino Lakes
Right At Home, a home health care service, has come to Lino Lakes. Right At Home provides in-home care to seniors. In-home service includes meal preparation, personal care, transportation services, 24/7 live-in care and more.
The Lino Lakes extension is located at 730 Apollo Drive, No. 160. For more information, call 651-461-3222 or visit rightathome.net.
McCall answers the call with stellar senior year
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Autumn McCall capped one of the best basketball careers in Centennial history this winter and did so while transferring to an almost completely new position.
“The growth of Autumn’s game this past off-season has been amazing,” said Coach Jamie Sobolik. The last two seasons, McCall ruled the blocks while guard Marisa Frost was the big scorer and floor leader. With Frost graduating, Sobolik said the coaches discussed a new concern with McCall: “We weren’t sure about our point guard position, and that she might be asked to fill that void.” Wait — a 6-foot-2, post switching to floor general? Not an outlandish idea, it turned out. “We had some scrimmages this summer where she ran the point, and we executed very well,” Sobolik said.
A long-limbed and limber athlete, McCall emerged as a scorer at all three levels, Sobolik assessed: taking the ball to the hole in transition, posting up to score with her back to the basket, stepping outside to hit three-pointers (she made 19 of them), taking the defender off the dribble to either get to the rim or pull up for a mid-range shot.
Her passing sparkled, too: “When teams start to fully deny her the ball or double team her, she is finding teammates cutting to the basket or
Cougar
hitting the open shot.”
After averaging 11.6 points per game (ppg) as a junior, 8.5 as a sophomore and 7.4 as a freshman, McCall tallied 19.7 ppg as a senior with two games in the 30’s. She also led the team with 8.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists and two blocked shots per game.
“The work she put in over the
boys lose in section finals
The Anoka Tornadoes shut down Centennial 5745 in the Section 7AAAA championship game Thursday evening. Anoka advances to the state tournament with a 23-6 record.
Centennial, which had won five straight games, finished 15-14. The Cougars got past Forest Lake 62-51 and Blaine 5956 in the first two rounds of the section tournament. Tristan Hanson, junior post, notched 18 points and 10 rebounds for Centennial. The Cougars’ thousand-pointer, Jackson Driessen, was limited to six points in his final game.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Grace Laager
Hockey
March 18, 2025
Grace Laager, Centennial/Spring Lake Park sophomore forward, was the second-leading scorer on the Cougar hockey team that finished 26-4 and won conference and were the section champions. Laager netted 23 goals and made 37 assists. Already a three-year starter, the 5-foot-9 skater has 54 career goals and 88 assists with two seasons left.
summer has definitely made her one of the top players in the state,” Sobolik said.
McCall credited her AAU season with Minnesota Fury, and trainer Pat Freeman with Midwest Basketball Training. “Both helped my skills, ball handling, shooting and confidence a ton.”
She welcomed her new responsibilities. The additional pressure meant “moments that test you, your character, your composure, and so on.” Win or lose, she said, it was always a growth opportunity.
Sobolik said that McCall ranked fifth in Cougar history with 1,348 points and first with 980 rebounds.
McCall played in one state tournament, as a sophomore, where the Cougars lost to Eden Prairie, then beat Eagan and Lakeville North to place fifth and earn a trophy. Asked about her top thrills, she listed the Lakeville North game because ‘’It was an awesome team win, with such a fun group” along with scoring her 1,000th point against Osseo this season and “celebrating with my team and family.”
McCall scored 29 of her team’s 44 points in her final game, a 47-44 loss to Anoka on a last-second threepointer. “It’s a very bittersweet feeling, especially ending how we did,” she reflected. “But, it’s about the journey, and everything that went into getting us to that point.” That included
SPORTS BRIEFS
GIRLS HOCKEY
Seven Centennial players made the allconference team as the Cougars went 12-0 in the Northwest Suburban Conference and 26-4 overall, reaching the state tournament. Teagen Kulekamp, senior forward, was team MVP and named to all-state teams by the Minnesota Star Tribune and the Coaches Association. Also allconference were senior Alexis Larsen, junior Katie Ball, sophomores Grace Laager and Kaia Wieland, and freshmen Mia Sutch and Annabelle Buccicone. Honorable mentions went to junior Ella Perrault and sophomores Maddie Wolter, Brooke Ueland and Erica Maida. Other team awards went to goalie Wieland (defensive
forging “so many friendships and relationships that will last a lifetime.”
The season was marred by the Cougars having to forfeit nine wins due to use of an ineligible player which the school said was “inadvertent.”
Sobolik said the MSHSL initially approved her, then changed its mind in January. McCall admitted that it was “a bummer” but they shook it off and went 8-6 the rest of the way with two section wins.
McCall will move on to play at St. Thomas, which has been developing a Division I program for four years under Coach Ruth Sinn. The Tommies were 17-13 this year. “I am so excited for St. Thomas,” McCall said. “The team, coaches and culture are all amazing, and I see myself being the best version of me there.” She added that she was attracted to the school by the high academic standards, coaching staff, location and new facilities. Soccer, which she played for seven years, was her favorite sport during elementary school. She started basketball in fifth grade and by eighth grade it was her main sport. When asked about other athletes in her family, McCall said she’s heard from her parents, Heather and Steve, that they played some basketball but ended up primarily playing baseball/ softball, which is how they met. She has a brother, Landon, 11, who “loves basketball.”
MVP), Larsen (Hobey Baker) and Grace Schmidt (Lift Award). Scoring leaders (goalsassists-points) were Kulenkamp (27-44-71), Laager (23-37-60), Sutch (32-19-51), Ball (5-31-36), Perrault (13-12-25), and Buccicone (12-12-24). Wieland had a 0.935 save percentage and 1.61 goals-against.
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Autumn McCall, senior guard/forward, and Sydney Schmitz, junior forward, were named to the Northwest Suburban all-conference team. McCall averaged 19.7 points per game and 8.7 rebounds. Schmitz averaged 12.4 points per game. Honorable mentions went to juniors
Kate Lee and Amelia Delmedico and senior Clare Pullman.
COLLEGE HOCKEY
Two former Cougars playing for Gustavus Adolphus were named to the all-Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) women’s hockey team. They are senior defenseman Abby Elliott, who helped the Gusties hold opponents to 1.5 goals per game while logging nine goals and eight assists, and freshman forward Noelle Hemr, who tallied seven goals and 10 assists on the team’s top line. The Gusties were 21-7 overall and finished 15-3 in the MIAC.
Bruce Strand
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Autumn McCall will move on to St. Thomas after four strong seasons with the cougars.
BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED
Jacob Hosfield (25) and Tristan Hanson foiled a layup by Anoka’s Afy Ibekwe.
BCA releases 2024 Permit to Carry annual report
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has released the 2024 Permit to Carry Report, which contains data submitted by Minnesota law enforcement agencies regarding applications made for handgun carry permits as well as data about permit holders. The annual report is required by Minnesota law.
Minnesota saw fewer firearms permits issued in 2024 than in 2023. Minnesota sheriffs reported to the BCA that 67,216 permits were applied for and that they issued 57,248 permits in 2024.
Sheriffs reported there were 198 permits suspended, 47 revoked, 1,545 voided and 783 denied in 2024.
Crimes committed by permit holders Minnesota sheriffs reported that individuals with permits committed 5,340 crimes in 2024. This is the highest number since the state’s Personal Protection Act was enacted, but the percent of permit holders who committed a crime (1%) was consistent with recent years.
• Just under 3% were crimes where firearms were used in furtherance of a crime.
• Just under 54% were DWIs or other traffic offenses.
• Twenty-five percent were from the “Other” category, which includes both less-serious offenses such as city ordinance violations and Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) hunting, fishing and recreational vehicle violations and less common but more serious offenses such as stalking and riot.
As of press time, the total number of valid permits in Minnesota was 408,356.
The Permit to Carry Report contains data on permits to carry a firearm. Minnesota does not track permits to purchase firearms.
Minnesota sheriffs are required under Minnesota law (Stat. 624.714, subd. 20 (b)) to report their data on gun permit applications, issuances and denials to the BCA. As directed by the same statute, the BCA compiles the public information provided by Minnesota sheriffs into its annual report. The full report is available for viewing on the BCA website at https:// dps.mn.gov/divisions/bca/publicservices-bca/firearms-information.
Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
PERMITS ISSUED PER YEAR
TOP 5 COUNTIES FOR 5-YEAR PERMITS ISSUED BY SHERIFFS IN 2024
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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal cu stod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real esta te which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9 777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75
Lino Lakes resident receives award for essay
Lino Lakes resident Cindy Ojczyk has won the Maxwell Medallion Award, founded in 1935 by the Westminster Kennel Club, for her essay that brought attention to overrun dog and cat shelters in Minnesota and across the country. Her essay, titled “22,000 Acts of Loving Kindness,” delivered a firstperson account of volunteering in a rescue operation in Cass Lake, Minnesota, at Leech Lake Legacy.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• Officers observed a traffic offense March 5 at the intersection of Lexington Avenue and North Road in Circle Pines. The driver was ultimately arrested.
• Officers were dispatched March X to a phone call regarding suspicious activity in the 0 block of Oak Ridge Trail in Circle Pines.
• Officers were advised March 6 by office staff of a request to contact public works in Centerville regarding a snowmobile complaint in the 1800 block of Revoir Street in Centerville. Officer called and took information for the report.
• Officers were dispatched March X to a phone call fraud report in the 2000 block of Main Street in Centerville. Officers determined no crime had occurred.
• Police received found property March 6 that was recovered at the intersection of Lake Drive and Lexington Avenue in Circle Pines.
• Police on March 6 took a delayed report of theft that occurred in the 30 block of Village Parkway in Circle Pines.
• On March 7, officers observed a traffic violation at the intersection of Lakeland Circle and Main Street in Centerville. The driver was arrested for DWI.
• Officers received a phone call fraud report in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington on March 8.
• Officers were dispatched March 8 for a report of shots fired in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington. The case is currently under investigation.
• Officers were dispatched March 9 on reports of found property in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers responded March 9 to a property damage accident that occurred at the intersection of Dunlap Avenue and Edgewood Road in Lexington.
• Officers were dispatched March 10 to a fire in the 0 block of Pine Drive S. in Circle Pines.
• Officers responded March 11 to a report of a runaway juvenile in the 7000 block of Centerville Road in Centerville. The case is currently under investigation.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• An officer responded March 4 to a report of an online scam in the 7700 block of Mustang Lane. The caller requested that the officer document the incident but did not want additional assistance.
• An officer responded March 4 to a possible fraud report in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway. After an investigation, it was determined no fraud occurred and no additional help was needed.
• An officer responded March 4 to a disorderly conduct report at a local school in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue. The incident is under investigation.
• A community service officer was dispatched March 4 to a report of found property in the 7500 block of Lake Drive. The property was secured at the police department.
• An officer took a report March involving a possible theft in the 600 block of Highlight Circle. After further investigation, the property was returned to the owner.
• An officer responded March 4 to a report of suspicious activity caught on camera overnight at a residence in the 2000 block of 80th Street. The officer found it was another officer conducting a house check and there were no problems.
• Officers responded March 4 to a vehicle accident with injuries that occurred at the intersection of 20th Avenue and Bloom Court. Officers arrived and provided aid until paramedics arrived and assumed care of the driver. The vehicle was towed from the scene.
• Officers responded March 4 to a report of a missing person in the 7500 block of Lake Drive. During the investigation, the person was located and there were no problems.
• An officer responded March 5 to a fraud report in the 6900 block of Black Duck Drive involving a property in another state. The officer documented the incident and referred the caller to the law enforcement agency where the incident occurred.
• An officer took a report March 5 of fraud in the 6700 block of Teal Court where a resident purchased items online but did not receive the appropriate items. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded March 5 to a report of theft in the 700 block of Apollo Drive where a wallet was found but was missing money. After further investigation, the officer was unable to identify the suspect who took the money.
• An officer responded March 6 to a report of suspicious activity in the 900 block of 81st Street W. involving an attempted scam. The officer investigated but was unable to identify any suspects.
• An officer responded March 6 to a report of fraud in the 700 block of Country Lakes Drive. The investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded March 6 to a call in the 400 block of Apollo Drive regarding a suspicious male sleeping in a vehicle. The officer spoke with the male and asked him to participate in a field sobriety test. No impairment was detected, so the male was asked to leave the location.
• A community service officer was dispatched March 6 on a complaint of a barking dog in the 900 block of Evergreen Trail. The officer investigated and determined there was no ordinance violation.
• An officer responded March 7 to a report of a shoplifter in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. The suspect was apprehended and will be cited for multiple thefts.
• An officer responded March 7 to a report of a dog bite that occurred in the 7000 block of Sunrise Drive. The incident is under investigation.
• An officer responded March 8 to a report regarding information that a person was going to protest at a local business in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road. The manager wanted the incident documented but did not want additional police assistance.
• An officer received a call March 8 of a found dog in the 400 block of Aqua Circle. The officer located the owner and returned the dog.
• An officer received information March 8 of an abandoned bicycle in the 6600 block of Black Duck Drive. The officer transported the bicycle to the police department and entered it into the property room for safekeeping.
• Officers responded March 8 to a report of theft in the 600 block of Apollo Drive. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers responded March 8 to a noise complaint in the 1100 block of South Trappers Crossing. The office notified the property owner of the complaint, and they took steps to resolve the problem.
• Officers responded March 9 to a report of a suspicious vehicle stopped in a turn lane at the intersection of Old Birch Street and Birch Street. The officers arrived and checked the area but were unable to locate the suspicious vehicle.
• Officers responded March 9 to a possible assault that occurred in the 6300 block of Painted Turtle Road. Officers responded but were unable to locate the vehicle or the victim. Officers were later notified that the incident occurred in Ramsey County and assistance wasn’t needed.
• A community service officer received a call March 10 regarding a found cat in the 6900 block of LaMotte Drive. The caller advised they would bring the cat to a local animal shelter.
• A community service officer responded March 10 to a local business in the 500 block of Lilac Street for a report of an abandoned vehicle. The officer made multiple attempts to contact the owner but was unsuccessful. The property owner was advised of their authority to remove the vehicle.
• An officer took a phone call March 10 regarding a panhandler at the intersection of Birch Street and Hodgson Road. The officer spoke with a concerned resident and answered their questions.
• Council members agreed to offer their support to the Minnesota Association of Community Telecommunications Administrators (MACTA) and its efforts to modernize local access funding through legislative change. North Metro TV and other stations face a challenge as traditional revenue streams decline. MACTA, along with the League of Minnesota Cities, the League of Women Voters and other organizations, are pursuing multiple avenues to modernize that funding at the state Legislature.
• Mayor Dave Bartholomay encouraged residents to attend the Chain of Lakes Rotary “Bingo and Bling” fundraiser that will take place Saturday, March 29 (see Calendar Briefs for details). Tickets are still available and can be purchased on the Chain of Lakes Rotary website. He also announced that on Saturday, May 3, the Centennial Area Education Foundation will be hosting its annual gala in Dellwood.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 25.
Madeline Dolby CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
