Press Publications asked local couples a few questions about their love story.
Dennis and Kathy Erno
Q: How long have you been married?
A: “57 years. We met in college. University of Wisconsin River Falls. We were exchanging classes. She was coming from a class, and I was going to a class. And we met on the stairs, and I wanted to meet her because I was attracted to her, so I asked her if she had a sister that went here, which was my opening line. So I asked her out. Our first date was at a Sadie Hawkins dance, which was supposed to be girls-ask-boys. That's how our relationship started.”
Q: What was your first impression of him?
A: “Handsome. A little forward, a little suspicious because I was a little younger.”
Q: What’s the secret to that many years of marriage?
A: “Just to know each other very well and don't give up. Discuss if you have a conflict and try to come up with a compromise or whatever.”
“We have shared values. We’re both, I’d say, moderate progressives, and we have the same moral and religious and social values.”
“And we love each other.”
Joshua Duckett and Kelly Jacobson
Q: How did you meet?
A: “It'll be three years [of dating] on Valentine's Day exactly. We met online and I asked her out. She declined.”
“At first because my friend also didn't have someone, so we wanted to have a girls Valentine's Day.”
“So I convinced her to still have that girl's Valentines and come out.”
“And it ended up being a really amazing night. We moved in with each other I want to say like a year later and we've been really, really happy.”
Q: What's the secret to happiness in a relationship?
A: “We have so much fun. I feel like we allow ourselves to be like the young and funny side and I think the really honest side.”
Q: What do you guys do for your Valentine's Day anniversary?
A: “Sometimes we go back to the first place that we met. Nico's Tacos. But we mix it up depending on weather.” “Nothing too crazy.”
2026 Legislative preview
The 2026 Minnesota legislative session is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, Feb. 17. Key topics are expected to include elections, public safety and environmental protection. All 134 House and 67 Senate seats are up for election in 2026. Learn about local lawmakers’ priorities for 2026 in Press Publications’ Legislative Preview.
Lino Lakes City Council gets the latest on joint powers agreement
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — The Lino Lakes City Council and staff continue to discuss the joint powers agreement (JPA) between North Oaks and White Bear Township to provide water and sanitary sewer services to the Wilkinson Waters development.
“We’re hoping to polish off our agreement between the three communities with the hopes of having something in front of you (the City
Council) at our second February meeting,” said Lino Lakes Community Development Director Michael Grochala.
The preliminary plat and comprehensive plan amendment for the Wilkinson Waters development was approved by the Lino Lakes City Council in May 2025. The development, proposed by North Oaks Company LLC, is located south of County Road J/Ash Street/CSAH 31, west of Centerville Road/CSAH 21 and north of Wilkinson Lake Boulevard (See “Revised
Wilkinson Waters development moves forward,” Quad Community Press, April 22, 2025.)
The project area is planned to be served by sanitary sewer and water services from White Bear Township through North Oaks.
According to Grochala, a condition of the preliminary plan approval was that a JPA be approved with White Bear Township and the City of North Oaks for sewer and water services prior to final plat approval. The water and sewer agreement addresses bulk water
rates, connection charges, ownership of facilities, maintenance responsibilities for each community and metering responsibilities.
Last week, staff from Lino Lakes and North Oaks met for a second time to put the finishing touches on the JPA between the two cities. The Wilkinson Way JPA provides for the construction of Wilkinson Way through both Lino Lakes and North Oaks, stormwater drainage responsibilities and cost
SEE JPA PROGRESS, PAGE 2
Heather Gustafson
Michael Kreun
Matt Norris
JPA PROGRESS: Will be polished off, presented to City Council by middle of February
share responsibilities. It also states that Lino Lakes will be the road authority regarding maintenance responsibilities.
Internally, Lino Lakes will have to adjust its utility rates, because the city will be buying bulk water from White Bear Township. Grochala said the city will have to pay 125% of the township’s Tier 1 rate, which is $255 per thousand gallons.
“At 125% of that, that’s going to be at $319 per thousand, and then we still have to charge, on top of that, to cover all maintenance responsibilities within Lino Lakes,” Grochala explained. “We will be working on a fee to pick up that percentage of that cost … That section of town — Wilkinson Waters and anything that develops off of that — will have a completely separate utility rate from what the rest of the city has.”
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, followed by a regular City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
COMMUNITY BRIEF
Volunteer registration open for 2026 3M Open
Registration to be a volunteer at the 2026 3M Open is now open for local area residents.
The 3M Open will take place July 20-26 at TPC
CITY BRIEFS
Twin Cities in Blaine. In 2025, more than 1,600 volunteers supported the tournament before, during and after the event. Volunteers include 3M employees, students, youth organizations and firetime volunteers.
Choose to help in various committees such as activations and events, competition support, fan services, logistics and volunteer services. To sign up or learn more, visit 3MOpen.com/ volunteer.
Lino Lakes entities discuss plans for Town Center South
The Lino Lakes City Council met with the Planning and Zoning Board and the Economic Development Authority to discuss the Town Center Master Plan (See “Lino Lakes City Council, staff discuss next steps for Town Center South,” Quad Community Press, Jan. 14.)
Tushie Montgomery Architects, in partnership with Measure Group and Maxfield Research and Consulting, provided an overview of current market conditions and reviewed the project area. The boards participated in interactive exercises to identify potential land uses for civic, residential, retail and open space functions. Discussions also focused on the site’s assets, opportunities and challenges to guide future development.
The overall goal of the plan is to support the sale of cityowned property and to guide the development of surrounding land into a vibrant, integrated City Center.
Curbside sticker program discontinued in Circle
Pines
Circle Pines residents will no longer need stickers to get rid of items at the curb beginning March 1. If residents have a bulk item or an appliance that they need to have picked up at the curb, they will now call Republic Services at 320-252-9608 to schedule and pay for the service. Bulk pickup is on Tuesday and appliance pickup is on Wednesday. Select prompt 1 for residential/home services and then prompt 3 for bulk/large item collection when calling. If residents have extra garbage bags to get rid of on Fridays, they should call Republic Services the Tuesday before to pay and notify them of your extra bags. Use the same number and prompts at the bulk large item collection. Due to infrequency of use, yard waste bags set out at the curb will no longer be picked up. Leaf pickup days will continue and are scheduled for April 25, Oct. 17 and Nov. 14.
• Serving Families for more than 115 years
• Fourth generation, Family owned provider
• We provide a personal, thorough service
• We offer free, no-obligation pre-planning consultations
This map shows the proposed water service area. Water for the development would be provided by White Bear Township through the City of North Oaks.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
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. Contact: 651- 783-0055
LINO LAKES TOASTMASTERS CLUB
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays
Where: Zoom
Details: Develop your communication and leaderships skills.
Contact: Phyllis Moore: 763-268-9366
HUGO SENIOR CLUB
When: 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16; and every 3rd Monday of every other month Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Planning meeting for 2026 followed by games. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
CRIBBAGE
When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23; and the 1st and 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
CURRENT EVENTS
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: CROWS
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11; the first Wednesday of the month
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Bring a lunch and learn about a local natural or cultural history topic from a naturalist and walk the trails.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
GALENTINE’S DAY
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake Details: Ladies night out event with shopping
and dining specials at participating downtown businesses.
Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com
‘MEET ME AT THE FAIR’
When: Friday, Feb. 13- Sunday, Feb. 15
Where: St. Joseph’s of the Lakes, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes
Details: The St. Joseph’s Church choir and band will host its original musical “Meet Me at the Fair.” Unexpected turns and a charming story line from a 1947 town fair will keep you smiling, and entertained. Tickets can be purchased after mass on Sundays, at St. Joseph’s office or online at www. stjoesvarietyshow.ludus.com.
Contact: 651-784-3015
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING
When: 10 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Uncover the journey of an animal by the tracks, trails and sign they leave behind. Each session will be a unique experience as the landscape and animal activity change throughout the winter months. Register online through Anoka County Parks.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
ADAPTIVE SNOWSHOEING
When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: This adaptive snowshoeing hike will allow participants with physical and cognitive disabilities, and their families, to get out on snowshoes and enjoy a beautiful winter day. Register online through Anoka County Parks.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
WEEKLY WAG
Love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and Lover, this beautiful dog, would be the perfect addition to a welcoming forever family and home. Lover is a corgi/Jack Russell terrier mix. This 1-yearold weighs 22 pounds. Lover exemplifies her name as a gentle, devoted, goofy girl who enjoys playtime as much as she enjoys snuggle time. Lover is social with other dogs and, in fact, would do best as an addition to a family with a friendly, confident companion dog. Lover is also
Centerville Skate/Sled Night
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13
Where: Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park, 6970 LaMotte Drive, Centerville
Details: The event will feature a bonfire, popcorn and hot cocoa. Those who attend will also be able to try out kick sleds and snowshoes provided by the Wargo Nature Center. Contact: www.centervillemn.com/
good with cats and she is friendly to everyone she meets, once she is comfortable. Lover is housetrained, crate-trained and leashtrained, and she knows her basic commands. She is intelligent and eager to please. Lover arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program. If you are looking for an affectionate best friend, then Lover is the companion for you. If you are interested in learning more about Lover or adopting her, please fill out an application
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
at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.
OPINION
Desert hockey
In part to celebrate my mother-in-law’s 79th birthday, we found good pricing on airline tickets and lodging and landed in Palm Desert, California for a long weekend. My niece, Meredith, and her family live there, and they invited us to a Coachella Valley Firebirds hockey game. We had just arrived earlier that 80-degree day and it seemed counterintuitive to put on sweatshirts and jackets and watch a hockey game.
We were aware that a former Bear plays for the Firebirds, Lleyton Roed, #29. When we arrived at Acrisure Arena it was impressive with an outdoor food court and games for kids. I wanted to at least be able to get a photo of Lleyton for the paper, as I’m sure many of our readers – especially the hockey fans - have been following his career, and have also followed his younger brothers coming up through the White Bear program. Being able to watch a hometown kid play made it a fun night for all of us.
Midway through the game we learned where we could meet Lleyton after the game. My niece’s kids, Patrick and Olivia, were thrilled at the idea. Patrick, an eighth-grader, plays for the youth team that is affiliated with the Firebirds and practices at the rink attached to the arena. When Lleyton came out of the locker room after the game we were able to get a quick photo, and he spent quite a bit of time talking to Patrick about hockey and even said he would try to get some of the players to visit one of the youth team practices. His advice to Patrick was to just keep having fun playing hockey. It was impressive that he took the time to engage like that with a young fan. He made Patrick’s night and I was reminded that our our local families, communities and schools are turning out some exceptional athletes who are also great people on and off the rink,court or field.
We also had an interesting tour of several ranches in the Coachella Valley, led by Meredith’s husband, Rob, who is in the agriculture business. The desert is a sandy former seabed that has less than 1% organic matter (as opposed to Iowa’s top soil of up to 10%). However, it has a plentiful aquifer under it, as well a manmade canal from the Colorado River that took 100 years of planning and is considered an engineering marvel. Farmers use drip or micro irrigation methods that limit water waste. Fertilizer is carefully controlled and managed with the irrigation system to drip specifically on the roots of the plants.
The area, just a few miles outside of the populous cities of Palm Springs and Palm Desert, produces some of the world’s highest per-acre crop yields. We drove by field after field of dates, lemons, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and peppers. If possible when you are picking out produce, choose what is grown in the USA.
We also got to tour some of the fields that produce sod for use at golf courses and soccer and lacrosse fields. These growers are affiliated with the company that grows the fields for the Super Bowl.
Another highlight of our trip was visiting Joshua Tree National Park.
Although the real estate market in the Coachella Valley feels untouchable, I asked several hospitality workers about tourism and they all said they have been experiencing reduced traffic from the Canadians this year. I guess that explains why we felt we got a good deal.
Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
I invite you to join in the fun and connection
January is always a long month, literally and figuratively, but January 2026 was exceptionally long. It is hard to even put into words. Just when I felt like we had rebounded from COVID, uncertainty returned and there was fear in the eyes of some people I crossed paths with. It felt familiar, but worse, at least for myself.
There’s an abundance of conflict and heartache that will linger for a long time. I don’t know how to fix political climate, but the Chamber does know a thing or two about bringing people together. Our shared humanity is the only way we move forward together. As we approach our second annual Centennial Area Chamber Winterfest our genuine hope is that we can help bridge the divide by bringing people together. Our goal is to celebrate all there is to love about our community and winter. This community-wide event is the Chamber’s
• 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
gift to our community. The event starts with the Good Neighbor Family Bingo Night with free bingo, pizza, and prizes on Feb. 13. If you’re looking for a memorable Valentine’s Day, we’ve curated a magical Candlelight Walk with 500 lanterns decorated by area elementary students and new this year we’ve added a Community Campfire with a s’mores bar. Scout Troup 136 will be serving hot chocolate and bringing snowshoes for those wanting to try snowshoeing.
We’re also hoping that our Love Local Tour and Drink Tour encourage residents to shop and sip local, as our small local businesses need our support. There will be drawings for some awesome prizes for those who fill their tour cards. All the details can be found at centennialareachamber.com. These are fun ways to support our local businesses and maybe visit some places you usually don’t. Get out and explore! Last year, we weren’t sure if people would participate but people indeed showed up! We received some sweet thank you notes and feedback on how grateful people were to have community activities. It was clear that people crave connection and want to love their community. We
all can play a role in that. Putting on an event like this relies on generosity. I’m so grateful for the way people shared their time and resources in putting this together. The Winterfest Committee was stellar and is already thinking up ways to make next year even better. A shoutout to our main sponsors: F & M Bank, Heather Hendricks with Edina Realty, Image Printing & Graphics, Xcel Energy, Jen Korus State Farm, Renstom Dental Studio and Social Indoor Twin Cities Northeast. Follow the chamber’s Facebook page to see daily updates, Medallion Hunt clues, and some special offers.
And dare I say, think snow? Yes, think snow. We want Winterfest to feel wintery and the Centerville Lions need good ice for their 41st annual Ice Fishing Contest on Feb. 21.
Coming together to have fun with fellow community members feels like just the thing we all need. On behalf of the chamber, I invite you to join in the fun and connection.
Michelle Koch is the president of the Centennial Area Chamber
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• 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.
Publisher’s View Carter Johnson
Movers & Shakers
Michelle Koch
Minnesota has a fire to put out
I served as a fire captain in Rochester, Minnesota. As a captain, I also served as an incident commander for 13 years, and I was a firefighter for eight years before that.
The most important thing we are taught, and as a captain, that I would teach our firefighters, is to stay calm and get your head together when we’ve got a fire to put out.
Firefighters know we’re responding to an emergency that’s going to change someone’s life, and we do everything we can to not make it worse. When we show up, we de-escalate the emergency. We don’t start knocking out windows of the house just because. We try to preserve this family’s home. That means spraying as little water as we can, and
just enough to take care of the real problem, but not to mess up the whole house.
From my command post, I coordinated with the police and paramedics as well. All of our departments are there to keep our communities safe. We do the best job when we talk to each other and keep our heads cool. Communication with all the agencies on scene is vitally important to keep our teams and the public safe.
Right now, Minnesota has a fire to put out. Neighbors are doing the equivalent of bringing water, and local leaders are trying to keep their heads cool and limit the damage. The federal government is not only getting in the way by failing to communicate with local officials, but is also adding fuel to the flames.
Guns-N-Hoses hockey game celebrates 10th annual puck drop
For 10 years, the Guns-N-Hoses Charity Classic has brought the community together to celebrate, support and honor first responders. This year, the game is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20, at the Blaine Super Rink. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.
The annual Guns-N-Hoses hockey game pits law enforcement officers (Guns) versus firefighters (Hoses) from Anoka County and
Tenth annual Guns-N-Hoses Charity Hockey Game benefiting TFLF and ACPSPS
Who: Local law enforcements officers vs. firefighters in a regulation hockey game
When: 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20; Doors open at 4:30 p.m.
Where: Rink No. 1, Blaine Super Rink, 1850 150th St. NE, in Blaine Details: Fundraiser for Minnesota first responders via The Front Line Foundation and the Anoka County Public Safety Peer Support Team. To donate visit www. gnhnow.com.
surrounding counties.
This year’s beneficiaries will be the Anoka County Public Safety Peer Support Team (ACPSPS) and The Front Lake Foundation (TFLF). ACPSPS provides confidential emotional support services to public safety professionals throughout Anoka County, including critical incident stress debriefings, immediate postincident defusing sessions and peer-
to-peer support. TFLF supports families of fallen law enforcement officers, EMS personnel and members of the Minnesota National Guard.
For more information about the game, or to donate, visit www. gnhnow.com/hockey2026.
Madeline Dolby
OF LINO LAKES ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Lino Lakes Public Works 1189 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55014
City of Lino Lakes 600 Town Center Parkway Lino Lakes, MN 55014
Architect: Oertel Architects 1795 St. Clair Avenue St. Paul, MN 55105
Construction Manager: RJM Construction 830 Boone Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427
NOTICE TO QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS – Notice is hereby given that the City of Lino Lakes will receive sealed bids for Bid Package #1 from qualified bidders until 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, 2026 at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, MN 55014. The project work scope consists of a new public works facility for the City of Lino Lakes. Bid Package No. 1 consists of cast-in-place concrete, precast wall panels & precast plank, structural steel materials and structural steel erection. Bid Package #2 will include the remaining scopes of work for the project. Bid Package #2 to be advertised at a future date. A bid security in the amount of 5% of the base bid will be required to accompany bids. Bids received after that time will not be accepted and will be returned unopened.
Sealed bids will be received at the Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 until 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 13, 2026 at which time bids will be publicly opened, reviewed, and read aloud. Envelopes containing bids must be sealed, marked City of Lino Lakes Public Works Facility – Bid Package #1 and the Bid Category No. being bid with attention to Michael Grochala – Community Development Director. The name and address of the Bidder must be shown on the outside of the envelope. The date and time of the bid is to be noted on the label. Bids received after this time will not be accepted and will be returned unopened.
Bidding documents including the Proposal Form, Drawings and Specifications will be on file at the office of the Construction Manager: RJM Construction
830 Boone Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427
952-837-8600
A pre-bid meeting will be conducted at the existing Lino Lakes Public Works Facility, 1189 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN 55014, on February 27th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. If you plan to attend the meeting, we do ask that you pre-register via email with nick.driessen@rjmconstruction.com by EOD February 25th, 2026.
HOW TO GET PLANS:
Complete digital Bidding Documents are available at www.questcdn.com for $15.00 by inputting project #10040972 on the website’s Project Search page. Paper Bidding Documents may also be viewed at RJM Construction, 830 Boone Avenue N, Golden Valley MN 55427 or can be purchased from National Reprographics by calling 651-779-8000. Complete set(s) of hard copy Bidding Documents can be obtained through National Reprographics as noted in AIA Document A701, Article 1. A digital download of the documents will be available for purchase for access with check made payable to National Reprographics. They are also available at any of the building exchanges. Plans will be available on or about February 20th, 2026. Make Bids in duplicate in exact accordance with the proposal form in the Project Manual, and sign in long-hand. No oral, telegraphic or fax bids will be accepted or considered.
Combined bids including multiple bid categories will be accepted. However, in order to be considered bidders must also submit separate individual bids in addition to the combined bid. Combined bids will not be accepted if individual bids are not submitted. Each separate bid or combined bid must appear alone on a bid form and submitted in separate envelopes.
Submit with each bid a certified check, bank money order or acceptable bidders bond issued by a surety meeting city requirements payable to the City of Lino Lakes in the amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total bid. For requirements, please reference specification section 00 21 00 –Supplementary Instructions to Bidders.
All bids will be evaluated by the Owner, the Architect and the Construction Manager. The Owner reserves the right to accept any bid or reject any or all bids, or parts of such bids and waive informalities or irregularities in bidding. Successful bidders will be required to furnish satisfactory Labor and Material Payment Bond, Performance Bond, and Certificates of Insurance and a signed contract within 10 days of award of contract. No bidder may withdraw his/her bid for at least 60 days after the scheduled bid opening. The successful bidder must be a “responsible contractor.” The term “responsible contractor” means a contractor as defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 16C.285, subdivision 3. Any prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that does not meet the minimum criteria or fails to comply with the verification requirements is not a responsible contractor and is not eligible to be awarded a construction contract for the project or to perform work on the project. A prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that makes a false statement under oath verifying compliance with the minimum criteria will be ineligible to be awarded a construction contract on the project and the submission of a false statement may result in termination of a contract awarded to a prime contractor, subcontractor, or motor carrier that submits
Our state is hurting, and ICE isn’t keeping us safe. I’m especially concerned about these ICE operations and the apparent lack of de-escalation training. I have witnessed tense situations handled calmly and professionally by our local officers— that is the standard we expect. If ICE can’t do that, they need to leave Minnesota now. Minnesota deserves leaders and emergency personnel who look out for all people—not just those they think deserve to be here.
the false statement. A prime contractor shall include in its verification of compliance a list of all its first-tier subcontractors that it intends to retain for work on the project. Before execution of a construction contract, a prime contractor shall submit a supplemental verification under oath confirming that all subcontractors and motor carriers that the prime contractor intends to use to perform project work have verified to the prime contractor, through a signed statement under oath by an owner or officer, that they meet the minimum criteria for a responsible contractor.
The schedule for the project is to commence work May 2026 with substantial completion scheduled for July 2027. Work will be completed according to the preliminary project construction schedule issued in the Bid Documents. Please direct all inquiries to Nick Driessen, RJM Construction at 612-6155965. Published three times in the Quad Community Press on February 10, 17 and 24, 2026.
RICE CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ANOKA COUNTY DITCH 55 DRAINAGE SYSTEM PARTIAL TRANSFER
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD), Drainage Authority for Anoka County Ditch 55 (ACD55), will hold a public hearing under Minnesota Statutes §103E.812, on proceedings to transfer a portion of the Anoka County Ditch 55 Drainage System, specifically Branch #8, to the City of Lino Lakes. The public hearing will be held during the District’s regular Board of Managers meeting on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 9:00 a.m. at the Mounds View City Council Chambers, 2401 County Hwy 10, Mounds View, MN. The Engineer’s report on the proposed transfer can be viewed at www.ricecreek.org or at the RCWD District office: 4325 Pheasant Ridge Drive NE, Suite 611, Blaine, MN 55449. Comments can be directed to Tom Schmidt at tschmidt@ricecreek.org, 763-398-3076, or by mail at the above address. Owners of property benefited by Branch 8 of
Chris Ford Blaine
NORTH METRO FIRE BUFF | CONTRIBUTED
The Guns-N-Hoses Charity Hockey Game pits law enforcement officers (Guns) versus firefighters (Hoses) from Anoka County.
VALENTINE’S DAY Q&A: Couples reflect on their time together
Diane and John Noll
Q: How did you meet?
A: “We both attended Hamlin University, and I took Physics for Poets as my hardest class, and he took it as his easy class. He offered to be up front in the class to assist the teacher on a project that the teacher was presenting, and I thought he was the best-looking guy I had ever seen, and I was instantly smitten, and I counted what seat he was in. So the next day I got there super early, and I sat in the chair next to his chair, and when he sat down, he was laughing. He knew what I was doing. So that was how we met. Then I asked him out first. It was the first time I’d ever done that because my girlfriend was getting married and I didn't have a date. So he went
to that. And my mother said, ‘Well, what's he like?’ And I said, I don't know. And she said, ‘Is he tall?’ And I said, ‘I don’t know, we're always sitting!’ He played basketball for Hamlin. So when he came to the door, my mother said, ‘You couldn't tell he was that tall?’ But anyway, we've been married since 1981, and we dated seven years before that.”
Q: Do you do anything special for Valentine's day?
A: “Usually on our anniversary we'll be sitting at McDonald's and go ‘this is our anniversary, we forgot again!’ So no, we usually don't do anything special, but every day is special.”
Whitney and Jesse Nickols
Q: When did you meet?
A: “We met in 2023. We got married in 2024.”
Q: How did you meet?
A: “We met through his brother, and I was friends with his sister-in-law in Pittsburgh. Then I moved to Colorado, and they invited me out here to Minnesota for the Minnesota State Fair. We thought it was a setup, but everybody claims it wasn't. We spent the few days at the fair over Labor Day weekend, and we talked a lot. And then his sister-in-law claimed that I was following him around like a puppy, and I said, ‘No.’ So I stopped hanging out with him, and then he
proceeded to follow me through the Christmas tree section of the Agriculture Building at the fair. So then, after that weekend, he didn't say anything to me, like we should talk, we should do whatever. He didn't even touch me. And then, before I left, he gave me a hug and kind of rubbed my back, and he gave me a handshake…”
“With my phone number.”
“With his phone number. Right before I left for the airport.”
“Didn’t want the parents noising around.”
“Then, a week later, I flew back out, and the rest is history.”
Compiled by Tyler Quattrin
POLICE REPORTS
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Police responded Jan. 28 to a property damage report in the area of Main Street and 20th Avenue in Centerville.
• Officers responded Jan. 28 to a report of vandalism in the 9100 block of Hamline Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers responded Jan. 28 to a report of phone call fraud in the 8900 block of North Highway Drive in Lexington.
• Officers responded Jan. 29 to a phone call request in the 7200 block of Brian Drive in Centerville for a fraud report.
• Police responded Feb. 2 to an HRO (harassment restraining order) violation in the 9300 block of Ryan Place in Lexington.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• An officer responded Jan. 26 to a report of a stop arm violation in the area of Main Street and Glenwood Drive. The incident was investigated; however, no suspect information was identified.
• Officers conducted a traffic stop Jan. 26 for an expired driver’s license in the 2200 block of Main Street. Officers subsequently arrested the driver for not complying
COPS&COURTS
with his ignition interlock restriction.
• An officer spoke to a resident Jan. 26 in the 2100 block of 64th Street about a possible missing item from their home. The officer investigated and determined there was no evidence of criminal activity.
• An officer responded Jan. 26 to a city park in the 1100 block of Main Street for three juveniles using a building after hours. The officer spoke with the parties and learned no crime had been committed. City staff secured the building.
• Officers responded Jan. 27 to a fraud report at a business in the 6600 block of Hodgson Road. The identity of the perpetrator is unknown at this time.
• While on patrol Jan. 28, an officer stopped a vehicle for multiple violations in the 900 block of Main Street. The driver was subsequently arrested and booked in jail for fourth-degree DWI.
• An officer responded Jan. 28 to a property damage accident in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road involving two vehicles. The incident was documented, and the drivers were given the case number for insurance purposes.
• An officer was dispatched Jan. 29 to check the area near Clearwater Creek Drive and Tele Drive for three suspicious individuals who were observed going door to
door in the neighborhood. The individuals were contacted and found to have no valid solicitor permit.
• While on patrol Jan. 29, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7300 block of Main Street. The adult male driver was subsequently arrested for driving after cancellation inimical to public safety and booked in jail.
• An officer responded Jan. 30 to a barking dog complaint in a neighborhood in the 700 block of 79th Street. The officer was unable to located the dog or hear any disturbances.
• An officer responded Jan. 31 to a report in the 7100 block of Cinnamon Teal Court of a suspicious spam call where the caller claimed to be a sheriff’s deputy from a local agency. The details were documented, and the sheriff’s office was advised of the activity.
• An officer responded Jan. 31 to a property damage crash near the area of Interstate 35E and Main Street involving multiple vehicles. One adult female was subsequently arrested for DWI.
• While on patrol Feb. 1, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7400 block of Lake Drive. The driver showed signs of impairment and was subsequently arrested for fourth-degree DWI and booked in jail.
• Officers responded Feb. 1 to
a two-vehicle crash in the 100 block of Elm Street. There were no injuries reported, and both vehicles were towed from the scene.
• A restaurant manager in the 600 block of Apollo Drive reported Feb. 1 a male did not pay a bill. The male was contacted and later returned to pay the bill.
• An officer responded Feb. 1 to a report of a loose dog
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Fire destroys townhome in Hugo
At approximately 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1, the Hugo Fire Department responded to a structure fire at a townhome complex in Victor Gardens.
in the 7800 block of Gotland Lane. The officer spoke with the owner, who advised they would make sure the animal does not get loose.
• Officers responded Feb. 1 to a motor vehicle accident near the area of 70th Street and Otter Lake Road. Medical care was provided, and one driver was cited for a driving violation.
Upon arrival, crews found a heavily involved garage fire with fire extending to the second story. Firefighters were able to stop the fire from spreading to adjacent units. All occupants were evacuated safely, and no
injuries were reported. One neighbor in an adjacent unit was treated at a hospital for smoke inhalation. The main fire occupancy is uninhabitable, and adjacent units have minor smoke damage.
The Hugo Fire Department was assisted by Forest Lake Fire, White Bear Lake Fire, Lino Lakes Fire, SBM Fire, M Health Fairview EMS and the Washington County Sheriff Office.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
HUGO FIRE DEPARTMENT | CONTRIBUTED
A structure fire in the 4500 block of Victor Path in Hugo sent one person to the hospital for smoke inhalation.
Ma rine Village School seekin g bus driver For more info co ntact Transportation@marinevillageschool.org or ch eck out marinevillagesh ool.org/careers/
MD A HIRING FOREST PEST (SPONGY MOTH ) SURVEYOR S The Minnesota Department of Agriculture is hiring temp intermitte nt Surveyors (Ag Te chnicians) for the 2026 Spongy Moth Trapping Survey season. $20.51/hr + mileage reimbursement View jo b post (Job I.D. 91599 ) & apply online thr ough March 2nd: https://mn gov/mmb/c areers. MDA is an equal opportunity employer & pr ovider Question s: 651/201-6692 or natasha.northrop@state.mn.us
The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/ hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at www. mahtomedimn.gov. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Marine Village School is seeking a bus driver to join our team!
Are you looking for a rewarding role with great, competitive pay?
Become part of our small but mighty MVS community — where you’re not just driving a bus, you’re helping move something bigger!
We’re seeking a reliable and caring driver to transport our responsible, respectful students safely to and from school each day. CDL required, bus certification preferred.
For more information please contact us : Transportation@marinevillageschool.org or check out marinevillageschool.org/careers/
Seasonal Maintenance Worker
White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7 AM to 3:30 PM (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).
Salary range from $18 to $21/ hour, depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.
Applications are available Monday – Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship. org. Application deadline: Open until positions are filled.
MAHTOMEDI VOLUNTEER FOR CITY COMMISSIONS
The City of Mahtomedi is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on advisory commissions. Openings for three-year appointments exist on the Planning Commission, Parks Commission, Environmental and Finance Commission. The Commissions serve as advisory bodies making recommendations within their areas of responsibility to the City Council.
If you are interested in serving the community in any of these capacities, please contact City Hall at 651-426-3344 for an application form. Applications are also available on the City’s website at www.mahtomedimn.gov. Applications will be taken through March 2, 2026.
JERENE
ROGERS CITY CLERK
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Master Groomer
Wolf Brothers Drywall, LLC
is a family owned business. Lee Wolf has lived in the local area his entire life and has been in the drywall business since 1979. Lee specializes in water damage and commercial tenant modifications. His service includes new construction, basements, remodels & drywall/ plaster repairs. Wolf Brothers Drywall LLC is owner operated, fast dependable, customer orientated and provides quality service.
You will find this company weekly under “Plaster/Drywall” in the Call-A-Specialist section of the paper.
The lead up to the 2026 legislative session has been overshadowed by the federal immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota. Like the majority of Minnesotans across the political spectrum, I am horrified by what I have witnessed. After all, this is still America, and the rights granted to us by the Constitution still matter. I’ve never been a supporter of
Sen. Michael Kreun District 32
651-296-1282 sen.michael.kreun@ mnsenate.gov.
My priorities for the upcoming legislative session will be simple: tackling fraud and reining in the overspending. These are the issues I hear the most about from constituents and they will have my full attention this year.
Fraud has becoming seemingly endless. It has
Sen.
Heather
open borders, and I believe there’s a role for common sense immigration policy. But federal agents enforcing immigration laws must follow the law themselves and respect the rights of the community they’re working in. Too often, their actions have violated the law and our morals as Americans, and they have spread fear throughout our communities. That’s why I will be working with my colleagues this session to take action to rein in these out-of-control tactics like banning masks, requiring agencies to identify themselves, keeping ICE away from schools, and creating pathways for Minnesotans to seek justice when federal officials violate their constitutional rights.
Preventing fraudsters from taking advantage of government programs also remains a high priority for me. This is a problem we need to take seriously, which is why I’m taking action. I am coordinating the creation of an anti-fraud package to be introduced during the 2026 session. I will continue my bipartisan
occurred in numerous areas: health and human services programs, education programs, housing programs – the list goes on. Minnesotans have taken notice, and they’re furious. This fraud is impacting taxpayer-funded programs meant to assist our most vulnerable, and that money is instead being used to line the pockets of fraudsters. Minnesotans want us to get our arms around it, which is why I coauthored a bill to create an independent statewide Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to stop fraud in its tracks before it begins. While that bipartisan bill did not make it across the finish line in 2025, I will continue advocating for its passage in 2026. I am proud of the serious bipartisan work we’ve already done, and I’m optimistic we’ll get it passed. We will also explore additional ways to increase oversight for all government agencies: reinstating legislative confirmation of commissioners, creating
work to create an independent Office of the Inspector General with a focus on preventing fraud from occurring. I will also push for passage of my bill to expand Minnesota’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and give them enhanced powers to investigate and prosecute fraud.
During the 2026 session, I will also continue my focus on guarding the rights of our neighbors in manufactured housing. Passing my Manufactured Home Park Resident Bill of Rights would protect these residents from unreasonable rent increases. It would also give them a true opportunity to purchase their park when it goes up for sale, shielding them from predatory private equity firms.
Lastly, I will work hard to advance the priorities of our region in a bonding bill, like funding for backlogged maintenance at the National Sports Center.
an Office of Legislative Auditor (OLA)“report card” to ensure agencies are following through with recommendations, stiffer penalties for those who engage in fraud, and more. Stay tuned.
When it comes to spending, we know our state is in a tough spot. We had a historic surplus that was spent through, and though we’ll have a small surplus for 2026-2027, we will be left with an over-$5 billion deficit if things don’t change. We need to take a hard look at our budget to find areas in which we can make responsible cuts, and we need to get the fraud under control. Every taxpayer dollar being lost to fraud has an impact on our budget. If we dive into correcting the fraud and ending the overspending, I believe we can fix our budget and simultaneously help Minnesota families with the high cost of living. It will take a bipartisan, all-hands-ondeck approach, and I’m ready to get to work.
sen.hgustafson@mnsenate.
responsibilities at once: advancing sound public policy and listening closely when people are hurting. This session will demand both. One of my top priorities remains passage of my independent Office of Inspector General (OIG) bill — a watchdog that will help oversee the use of state tax dollars. I began this work two years ago
because Minnesotans deserve strong oversight, real accountability, and confidence that public funds are spent as intended. At a moment when trust in institutions matters deeply, an independent Inspector General is a practical step toward restoring that trust. I am also working on legislation to provide property tax relief for homeowners feeling the squeeze of rising costs. At the same time, I am advocating for another round of public safety funding for our cities, counties, and Tribal Nations, so local governments can continue investing in police, fire, and emergency services without shifting the burden onto property taxpayers. I am also working to fund local infrastructure projects that strengthen our communities for the long term. Alongside this work, it would be wrong not to acknowledge what many Minnesotans are experiencing right now. The increased federal presence in our state has had real consequences. Parents are fearful about their children getting to and from school. Small business owners are shutting their
doors indefinitely. Neighbors are hesitant to leave their homes. We have seen lives taken and families shattered.
I represent a district with a wide range of views and beliefs. While people may disagree on federal immigration policy, I believe we can agree on this: fear, instability, and violence are not healthy for our communities and needs to stop now.
At the same time, I have been encouraged by the way community members are showing up for one another. I recently spent a morning at a local church, sharing coffee and listening. Many people told me they had never gotten involved before, but felt compelled to step forward. For many, this moment has become a turning point.
As a state senator, my role is to represent everyone, center safety and dignity, and keep doing the work Minnesotans sent me here to do, especially during difficult moments.
Editor’s note: Press Publications reached out to Rep. Elliott Engen and did not hear back before press deadline.
Alpine: Caleb Nelson, Evie Nelson advance to state
A senior and a seventh grader will represent Centennial/ Spring Lake Park (CSLP) in the state Alpine Ski meet after Caleb Nelson and Evie Nelson (no relation) qualified at Section 7 on Tuesday.
Senior captain Caleb placed 11th among the boys and rookie Evie placed 17th among the girls at Giants Ridge in Biwabik. They returned to Giants Ridge on Tuesday for the state meet. It’s Caleb’s second state trip.
The girls placed third as a team and the boys placed 11th.
CSLP’s other girls entrants were Gwen Halverson in 20th place, Ella Nelson 36th, Hailey Peterson 40th (11th in her
second run), Hadley Gooche DQ (37th in second run) and Hannah Logren DQ (52nd in first run).
CSLP’s other boys entrants were Logan Hazzard in 48th place, Hunter Johnson 57th Griffen Lofgren 77th, Luke Peterson 85th (35th in his second run) and Ryder Quinn did-not-finish (39th in second run)
“Our team was prepared and polished going into the race and while up at Giants Ridge,” assessed Coach Derrick Taylor. “I just can’t say this enough. We hit all of our marks in regard to the schedule and logistics, and our team’s energy and focused fun was all-time.”
Bruce Strand
GIRLS BASKETBALL
Centennial picked up two wins last week before losing to the top team on their schedule, Rosemount. The Cougars (11-12) won 69-61 at TotinoGrace (9-10) with five double digit scorers: Ava Taylor, 15 points, Addy Sears and Amelia Delmedico 14 each, Kate Lee 12 and Sydney Schmitz 11. They broke loose for an 84-72 home win over Andover (8-12) with Schmitz and Delmedico pumping in 25 points each. Kaylin Green added 11 points and Kate Lee eight. Rosemount (19-2),
ranked No. 3 in the state, thumped the Cougars 92-41 there Saturday with Anisha Ramlal netting 39 points and Ashna Ramlal 20. Green and Sears had eight points each for Centennial.
BOYS BASKETBALL
Centennial (4-15) had a strong week with two wins and a close loss. The Cougars won 77-69 over Forest Lake (7-12) on Monday, lost 72-71 to Andover (13-5) on Wednesday and edged Chisago Lakes (6-12) by 68-63 Friday. Against Forest Lake, Brady Anderson notched 21 points and nine rebounds, Zach Espinosa 18 points and six rebounds, Teagan Mortenson 11 points, Wes Guanzini 10 points and Tristan Hanson seven points and 16 rebounds. Espinosa left the game with a broken bone in his wrist. Against Andover, Hanson had 22 points and 10 rebounds, Wes Kukkonen 14 points and seven rebounds, and Anderson 13 points. Hanson dominated against Cambridge-Isanti with 30 points and 17 rebounds. Shawn Eline added 11 points.
BOYS HOCKEY
Centennial (14-9) got goals from six players in defeating Holy Family Catholic 6-3 at home Saturday. Scoring were Nick Carls, Gavin Cunningham, Joey Hemr, Matthew
Wrestling: Akpan, Dougherty reach state
Nora Akpan, a defending state champion, earned her third trip to the girls state wrestling tournament by cruising to the 155-pound title in Section 4 on Friday and Saturday at South St.
Paul. Also qualifying was Samantha Dougherty with a runner-up finish at 136 pounds. Akpan, unbeaten for two seasons, won by 17-2 (technical fall) over Aiyzabeth Hiler of St. Paul Johnson in
Siegler, Kaden Johnson and Nolan Border. Flynn Sanburg, goalie, stopped 23 of 26 shots. Max Alexander had two goals for HFC (10-13). The Royals lost to NWSC (Northwest Suburban Conference) leader Rogers 9-1 on Thursday evening. Carls had the lone goal.
GIRLS HOCKEY
Top-seeded Centennial/Spring Lake Park won its Section 5AA opener against Osseo/Park Center 10-1 on Saturday. The Cougars face Roseville/ Mahtomedi in the semifinals Tuesday at 5 p.m. at Roseville Ice Arena. In the other semifinal, Maple Grove meets Champlin Park/Coon Rapids. The finals will be Friday at 7 p.m. Cougar goals were netted by Annabelle Buccicone (two), Grace Laager (two), Katie Ball, Mia Sutch, Jozie Kelzenberg, Alaina Glenz, Stella Kramer and Lillian Renslow.
BOYS SWIMMING
Centennial lost its regular-season finale to Elk River 114-72 Thursday at home as the Elks wrapped up their
the finals. The state tournament will be Feb. 27-28 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul. Also placing for the Cougars was Emily McDougal, third at 142 pounds.
Bruce Strand
Looking ahead for SPORTS
GIRLS BASKETBALL
7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10 — at Coon Rapids
7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 — vs. Armstrong
BOYS BASKETBALL
7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10 — vs. Coon Rapids
7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 — at Armstrong
BOYS HOCKEY
7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10 — vs. Mounds View 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12 — at TotinoGrace
WRESTLING
5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13 — at Stillwater Area High School
third straight NWSC (Northwest Suburban Conference) title and stayed unbeaten, Centennial finished 7-3. It was Senior night and the young Cougar team honored its two seniors, Eliot Shepard and Isaac Nguyen, who both had a good home-pool finale. Shepard won the 50 freestyle (23.57) and anchored a first-place medley relay, touching out the Elk anchor. Grant Page, Sawyer Celotta, Nguyen, and Shepard won in 1:44.00. Nguyen was second in the medley (2:10.71) and backstroke (59.48). Page won backstroke (50.22) and was second in the 100 free (50.99). Ethan Stegora second in the butterfly (1:00.99). Next is Section 7AA on Feb. 19-21 at Coon Rapids,
BOYS WRESTLING
Centennial finished the regular season with a 16-12 overall record and 7-1 in the Northwest Suburban, losing only to champion Elk River 3524. They closed with a 46-18 win over Blaine on Thursday. Section 7AAA team will be held Friday at Andover, and individual will be Saturday, Feb. 21, at Cambridge.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Tristan Hanson
Centennial Basketball February 10, 2026
Tristan Hanson turned in three strong games last week for the Cougar basketball team. The 6-foot-5 senior forward logged 16 rebounds and seven points in a win over Forest Lake, 12 points and 10 rebounds in a 72-71 loss to Andover and 30 points and 17 rebounds in a win over Chisago Lakes. Hanson is averaging 18 points and 11 rebounds. He averaged 15 points as a junior and made all-conference.
CONTRIBUTED
Centennial/Spring Lake Park state qualifiers include senior Caleb Nelson and seventh grader Evie Nelson.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED Amelia Delmedico had games of 14 and 25 points.
Winterfest features mix of new events, familiar favorites
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
Winterfest will return to the Quad community with a mix of new events and familiar favorites. The winter celebration will kick off on Feb.13 and run through Saturday, Feb. 21, offering a variety of activities for area residents and opportunities to support local businesses.
“We are four cities, but one community. The Centennial Area
Chamber wanted to create an event that would bring the entire community together. We want to celebrate what there is to love about our community, help people enjoy winter and support local businesses during what can be a slow time of year,” said chamber President and CEO Michelle Koch. In its second year, the event is hosted by the Centennial Area Chamber along with local businesses and civic organizations. This year, there will be seven special and signature events.
The medallion hunt is scheduled to begin on Monday, Feb. 16. The first clue can be found on the chamber’s social media page (www.facebook.com/ CentennialAreaChamber). Clues will be provided daily until the medallion is located.
New events added to this year’s weeklong calendar include a bingo night on Friday, Feb. 13 at Renstrom Dental Studio, a community campfire and a coloring contest. Each event will be supported by a local business.
takes
651-407-1200 presspubs.com
The campfire will take place at The Rookery alongside the candlelight walk from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 14. After taking a walk down the trail behind The Rookery, attendees can warm up by the fire and have a s’more or two. According to Koch, the candlelight walk will feature 500 lanterns decorated by local elementary school students.
Last year, Koch said the candlelight walk setup was a lot of work and it happened to be on one of the few days the community got snow.
“Driving was terrible, and I wondered if anyone would show up,” she recalled.
“At the starting time, people were immediately there to head out on the walk. There were families with young kids, older couples and everything in between. It was absolutely magical in the snow, and we’re excited to make this year’s walk even better with the community campfire.”
Kids in the community up to 17 years old can participate in the coloring contest, which runs from Friday, Feb. 13 to Thursday, Feb. 19. The contest is broken up into age groups. Winning entries will have their work enlarged and displayed at Image and Printing graphics and receive their large print.
Also new this year is a weeklong activity called Love Local, which encourages residents to shop at area businesses.
“The Drink Tour and Love Local both encourage residents to get out and explore their own community and support the local businesses that are so
POLITICAL BRIEF
important,” Koch explained.
Those who participate in both activities will receive punch cards. When you complete your punch card, Koch said you will be entered into a drawing to win prizes.
Along with the drink tour, the Winterfest Puzzle Competition at Centennial Middle School will also make its return. It will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20. Closing out the celebration, the annual Centerville Lions Fishing Contest will take place Saturday, Feb. 21, out on Centerville Lake.
“As the president of the chamber, I view Winterfest as our gift to the community,” Koch said. For more information about the celebration, visit centennialareachamber.com.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
Craig Johnson announces candidacy for House District 36A
Craig Johnson, of Lino Lakes, has announced that he is running for the Minnesota House of Representatives and will seek the Republican endorsement for House District 36A, which includes North Oaks, White Bear Township, Centerville, Circle Pines and Lino Lakes.
Johnson is a twiceelected member of the Centennial School Board and a licensed insurance agent. He has spent nearly two decades actively involved in local civic life, education leadership and public service. Johnson has held leadership roles within local and state civic organizations, served on advisory boards and commissions and volunteered for community and nonprofit initiatives.
“I’m running for the Minnesota House because our communities deserve
a strong voice in St. Paul, one that understands the real-world impact of state decisions on families, schools, and local taxpayers,” Johnson said. “People in our district are doing everything right, yet they’re being squeezed by rising costs, higher property taxes, and policies that shift financial burdens downward instead of taking responsibility at the state level.”
To learn more about Johnson’s campaign, visit craigjohnsonformn.com.
