The nominations are in, and voting opens at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, for Press Publications’ annual Best of the Press Readers’ Choice contest. Community members will vote for a wide variety of their favorites, including restaurants, doctors, schools, artists, services, events and much more.
This year’s contest features more than 150 categories, including 29 new or newly revised categories including: best art class, best beer selection at a liquor store, best bourbon selection, best spirits at a bar or liquor store, wine selection at a liquor store and bar, best assisted living, best chiropractor, best orthopedic clinic, best orthopedic doctor or surgeon, best physical therapy clinic, best senior care facility, best elementary school, best high school, best middle school, best teacher K to 5, best teacher 6 to 12, best wedding venue indoors, best wedding venue outdoors, best bank, best credit union, best hair stylist, best hair salon, best landscape company, best veterinary clinic - emergency, best veterinary clinic - general and best hardware store.
SEE ‘BEST OF’ CONTEST, PAGE 10
Lino undergoes feasibility study for possible municipal cannabis dispensary
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES—A feasibility study for a possible municipal cannabis dispensary in Lino Lakes will be conducted by Great White Companies LLC following council approval in a majority 4-1 vote.
A community-based feasibility study will help illustrate the
potential market and highlight projected sales for the city of Lino Lakes. According to City Administrator Karen Anderson, the cost of the study will be a $2,500.
“One of the discussions that we had earlier, brought up the topic ‘Is there an actionable item that could provide us the ability of gaining (some) finance?’ which would allow us to put those revenues towards another source,”
Mayor Rob Rafferty said.
Adult-use cannabis was legalized by the state Legislature in 2023 and signed into law in 2024. In response to the legalization of cannabis in the state of Minnesota, cities are required to amend their zoning codes to reflect the changes that have been set by the state.
CANNABIS STUDY: Possible revenue source
FROM PAGE 1
The law also created the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to oversee the implementation and regulation of the adult-use cannabis market, the medical cannabis market and the consumer hemp industry. The OCM will be responsible for licensing cannabis businesses. There are 13 different types of business licenses.
Council Member Tony Cavegn said that since, by law, the city has to allow cannabis stores, it should see if there is a way to benefit from them.
“This is a revenue source that we haven’t had the opportunity at before. It certainly should be looked at to see if there is revenue available. It would need to be, I think, significant for us to move forward, but there is really no reason not to,” he said.
While the law provides certain means of oversight by local units in government, the city cannot ban a cannabis business outright or limit operations in a manner beyond those provided in state law. The city can, however, limit the number of retailers and businesses with retail endorsements allowed within the community. The law requires cities to allow once license per 12,500 people. Based on the city’s population, Lino Lakes is entitled to two licenses. If the city moves forward with a municipal dispensary, it will follow the general license application process.
Council Member Dale Stoesz said he is opposed the feasibility study and the idea of having a municipal cannabis dispensary because he believes it could create conflict for the city.
“I believe that having the enforcement side to cannabis as well as profiting from cannabis creates a conflict for the city… I don’t think that selling cannabis is one of the core services that our city is supposed to provide,” he said.
The results of the study were presented to the City Council at a work session on Monday, July 7. For more information about the Office of Cannabis Management, visit mn.gov/ocm.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
COUNTY BRIEF
Experience summer forging in Anoka County Parks
Midsummer is a prime time for finding fruits and other wild edibles in Minnesota. The Wargo Nature Center will host an introductory session to summer foraging from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, July 26. The session will be led by Maria Wesserle from Four Season Foraging.
Gain the knowledge to accurately identify and prepare different wild edible species for consumption. Also learn about legal and ethical foraging practices. Registration is required. Visit anokacountyparks. com to register. Wargo Nature Center is located at 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes.
The Real Dogs of the Quad Press: Meet Jade
BY CINDY OJCZYK SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
Thump! The ground shook under my feet as Julia Nelson lurched to my left. Her arm had been wrenched taut by a very large shepherd pouncing on the tiniest of cottonwood fluff. She laughed, straightened herself and adjusted the leash around her wrist. We continued our stroll along the shaded edges of Lino Park. Her dog, Jade, snuffled and chased and pounced on the abundant seeds stirred by a gentle breeze. Jade, Jade Jade or JJ is a regal German shepherd with a black spot on her forehead and one in the center of her long, pink tongue. I nicknamed her Double Dot.
Our conversation had begun in the shade of the picnic pavilion. Julia held a tight grip on Jade’s leash while I sat on a bench. The more we talked, the more trusting Jade became. She eventually approached my hand with her big sniffer, gave a brief nudge of my fingers then turned her ears like satellite dishes in the direction of a distant bark. Julia told me that if people don’t have time to make friends on Jade’s terms as I did, she merely has to coo, “That’s momma’s friend,” and Jade relaxes into her trust. She’s used that phrase so often in her neighborhood that kids often tease her with their high-pitched voices, singing, “I’m momma’s fre-end.”
Nelson grew up in a shepherd-loving family. When she had the means to care for dogs of her own, she sought out a reputable breeder. She wanted to meet the dog parents, see their living conditions and learn about their genetic diversity. All were clues to the health of the pups she would purchase. Julia had no interest in pet store puppies that come from industrial breeding farms known as puppy mills.
I didn’t meet Julia’s other dog Rocky the day I met Jade. Julia manages two large, prey and floof-driven dogs by attending
to one dog at a time. Julia walks twice daily, one hour with each dog. To get them outside together, she uses the Sniffspot app to find private, secure spaces to let her dogs run free. Their favorite is a seven-acre parcel of rolling woods in Lindstrom. “It’s my therapy,” said Nelson, recalling the quiet peppered only by bird songs and the crashing of her pups through the underbrush. Sometimes she rents a Sniffspot in Centerville where she brings balls and bubbles for the dogs to chase.
Nelson considers six-year-old Jade the intelligent one of her two shepherds. While five-yearold Rocky is smart, he is easily manipulated by Jade. If he is lying down in the place she wants to be, Jade will begin posturing in front of Rocky to play. Rocky, always hip for a game, easily caves to her challenge. When he vacates his resting spot, Jade
sneaks into it before he knows what’s happened. It doesn’t matter how many times Jade initiates the ploy, Rocky always gives in.
As we prepared to leave the park that day, Jade gave one final pounce on a particularly persistent cottonwood seed, her tail wagging with pure joy. Watching Nelson’s face light up, I understood that these daily walks weren’t just exercise and routine—they were love in motion, proof of the quiet devotion that flows between a person and their dogs.
Cindy Ojczyk is an award-winning writer whose weekly newsletter “Like People, Like Pets,” can be found at cindyojczyk.substack. com. If you have a dog you’d like featured in “Quad Dogs,” please contact news@presspubs.com.
CALENDAR BRIEFS
Learn about seed transplanting through the Centennial Library
Educator Heidi Ferris will visit Centennial Library to provide more information about native prairie plants and seed transplanting from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 17. This is a hands-on program, where participants will work together every month to learn and grow the plants, eventually planting them at the library this summer.
This program is intended for all ages. To register, call the library at 763-324-1540. The Centennial Library is located at 100 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines.
Johnsville Library hosts teen writers workshop
Sci-fi and fantasy author Chad Corrie will host a teen writing workshop titled “Crafting Worlds and Words” from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 17 at the Johnsville Library. Corrie will share techniques and offer tips for creating worlds in fantasy and science fiction genres. No writing experience is needed to participate.
The workshop is suitable for teens 12 and older. Registration is required. To register, visit anokacounty. libcal.com/event/14253117. The Johnsville Library is located at 12461 Oak Park Blvd NE, Blaine.
Jade enjoys the sunshine on a summer afternoon.
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. 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
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
LEXINGTON FARMERS MARKET
When: 3-6 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lexington Municipal Liquor Store front parking lot, 9271 Lake Drive
Details: Vendors selling vegetables and fruit, baked goods, Maple syrup, tea and homemade gifts.
Contact: Karen Gregory at 612-272-3386 or kgregory244@gmail.com
CENTERVILLE MAIN STREET MARKET
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays through end of Aug.
Where: North Centerville Road, near Centerville Elementary School parking lot, 1721 Westview St.
Details: Shop among local artisans, listen to live music and grad a bite to eat from a food vendor.
Contact: Centervillemn.com
CURRENT EVENTS
GREENHORN WEDNESDAY SERIES BASS TOURNAMENT
When: 4-9 p.m., Wednesday, July 9
Where: Bald Eagle Lake, 5589 Hugo Road, White Bear Township.
Details: Approximately 50 entrants participate as part of the Twin-Cities-based nonprofit Bass fishing league.
Contact: greenhornbasstour2011@gmail.com
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: TURTLES
When: 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 9
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Bring your lunch and join a naturalist for a presentation on a local natural or cultural history topic and possibly a relaxing stroll on the trails at Wargo.
Contact: www.anokacountyparks.com or 763-324-3300
Upcoming Games
July 8 - 13 Iowa Cubs July 18 - 20 Louisville Bats
Bald Eagle Waterski Shows
When: 7 p.m. Thursdays through end of August
Where: Trailside Park, Centerville
Details: Volunteer team of waterskiers performs weekly throughout the summer, and travels throughout Minnesota to perform weekend shows.
Contact: baldeaglewaterskishows.net
MUSIC ON THE LAKES-IT’S GOLDEN
When: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10
Where: Golden Lake Park, 53 West Golden Lake Road, Circle Pines
Details: The Revolution 5, a Beatles tribute band, performs. The band’s set list includes Beatles tunes and chart-topping hits sprinkled with a handful of deeper tracks.
Contact: ci.circle-pines.mn.us.
LEARN TO RIDE A BIKE
When: 10 a.m.- noon, Monday, July 14
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Regional Park, 7373 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: This program is geared toward children looking to learn how to ride a bike or improve their skills. Staff will be on hand to instruct and help kids get riding on their own. Helmets and bikes are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own equipment. Register through the Anoka County Parks website.
Contact: www.anokacountyparks.com or 763-324-3300
WEEKLY WAG
“Play Misty For Me” is an American classic movie, but our Misty is an adorable 2-and-a-half year old Labrador Retriever/ Shepherd mix. And if she could sing the song “Misty’,” made famous by Johnny Mathis, she would certainly start singing, “Look at me…”
Misty is playful, likes to spend time outside and she likes to go for walks. She is social with other dogs and friendly to everyone she meets, but Misty does need a cat-free home. Misty weighs about 48 pounds, she is house trained and crate trained. She is gentle, intelligent and eager to please. And, Misty is always ready for a car or truck ride.
During her downtime, Misty enjoys cuddling up on the couch with her people. Misty arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program. Misty is a fun, happy young lady and would be a wonderful addition to a loving family home or an active companion.
If you are interested in learning more about Misty or adopting her, fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.
Top 5 at PressPubs.com:
Week of June 29– July 5, 2025
Editor’s note: Visit www.presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories
1. 4th of July calendar of events. White Bear Press > Featured
2. Behind the scenes of White Bear Lake’s Fourth of July fireworks. White Bear Press > News
3. Second tragedy in White Bear Lake within a week. White Bear Press > Public Safety Briefs
4. Drowning reported on east side of White Bear Lake. White Bear Press > News
5. Former Bear is Grandma’s Marathon champion. White Bear Press > News
Church Directory
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
Summer activities
When summertime rolls around, I find myself spending a lot of time outdoors. My family and I enjoy going on walks around the lake by our house, golfing, eating dinner on the patio, paddle boarding and much more. But sometimes we want to try something new things and do not quite know where to start. And I am sure others feel that way too.
That is where community education comes in. I admit, the only time my family has utilized community education is to sign up my sister and I for swimming lessons. Even though I was young, I still remember how much fun I had at those classes. The teachers were engaging and made learning how to swim and dive enjoyable.
There are multiple programs in Press Publication’s coverage areas that offer adult and youth activities throughout the year. In the Quad area, residents can take various classes through Centennial Community Education. Those who live in White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights can utilize classes offered through White Bear Lake Community Services and Recreation. Centennial Community Education offers youth and adult educational, recreational, social and cultural programs. Parents can sign up their child for Kids Club, a year-round, school-age care program where fun and learning come together. Centennial Community Education also offers early childhood family education, Centennial preschool and early childhood screening. Other youth programs and activities include robotics classes for all ages, craft and painting workshops and various team sports such as t-ball, archery and football camps.
If you are an adult looking to try something new, Centennial Community Education offers a large variety of classes to take. Adults can try various painting classes, cooking classes and music and theater classes. Centennial Community Education also offers educational classes regarding finances and technology.
White Bear Lake Community Services and Education offers a wide variety of programs including adult enrichment classes, adult recreation, senior programs, youth enrichment and development, driver education and much more.
For adults and seniors, White Bear Lake Community Services and Education offers low impact aerobics classes, chair yoga, day trips and various technology classes. Seniors can participate in the Craft Corner Gift Shop, the Meals on Wheels program and are welcome to attend the Senior BBQ held in July.
Kids can participate in a variety of programs and classes during the summer months to keep them busy. White Bear Lake Community Services and Education offers engineering classes, robotics courses, theater and movement classes for elementary and middle school aged children. High school students can take classes in babysitting, ACT prep, driver’s education and can participate in various sports camps. Through community education, there is a little something for everyone to enjoy. I encourage residents to take that guitar class, try the follow-along painting class and explore everything their area has to offer.
For more information about Centennial Community Education and to view the course guide, visit isd12.ce.eleyo.com. To learn more about White Bear Lake Community Services and Education, visit communityservices.isd624.org.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-4311226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
ILegislator’s Lingo
Road construction season
hope everyone had a fantastic Fourth of July weekend with your friends and family and celebrated the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. Freedom … Keep it going. Since we are in the heat of road construction season, today’s article is about roads. I represent Anoka County District 3, which includes the Quad area, (Centerville, Circle Pines, Lexington and Lino Lakes) as well as Columbus and Linwood, but since this article will only be delivered in The Quad Press, I’ll only include projects for the Quad area.
Sunset Ave: Initial plans for Sunset Ave from Apollo Dr to Main St have been designed and reviewed by the public at a recent transportation open house. The current design includes two roundabouts, one at Lilac St and one at 121st St. It also includes a median that just about every person I spoke to at the open house Does Not Want. I have been working with our transportation engineers to change the design and include some left turn lanes instead of having the intrusive median. I
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am told a new design will be ready for review in about a month.
35E interchange project: As you can see, the 35E / County J interchange project has begun. Phase one of the project is underway and will take two years. This phase includes completion of a full four-way access to 35E from Co J, with two roundabouts on the new bridge and one roundabout at Co J and Centerville Rd. Phase two will be completed in 2027 and includes a roundabout at Centerville Rd / Ash St.
Centerville Road crosswalk: The crosswalk on Centerville Rd just south of Hunters Trail and north of Dupre Rd will be getting an improvement. We are working with the City of Centerville to add a rapid flashing beacon to enhance safety. The cost will be shared between the City and the County, and if approved by the City Council, will be constructed next summer in 2026.
Lake Drive watermain and sanitary sewer extension north of Bills Superette and 81st St.: The work necessitating the closure of Lake Dr is complete. The project work within the Pine Haven development is still underway. The entire project will be completed by the end of the year. Anoka County does not usually close roads during road construction projects but a request for closure came from the City of Lino Lakes to speed up completion
and resulted in saving Lino Lakes taxpayers about $400k. Lake Drive and 77th St: Work is underway with construction scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The project includes the realignment of the west approach on 77th St to match up with Market Place Dr and will include a signal system modifications and pedestrian facility ADA enhancements. There are no plans to close Lake Dr at any time during this project. Lovell Road: Complete reconstruction is what is needed for this road but due to a few existing conditions including drainage issues and the need for pedestrian enhancements, full reconstruction will be expensive. The City of Lexington cost share will be approximately $3.4M. If reconstruction is agreed to, the project will be completed in 2028. If the cost is not achievable for the City, we will revise our plan and construct a pavement preservation project in 2026. If anyone has any questions or comments about any of these projects or anything else, throw me a quick text at 612-741-9491, or email me at Jeff.Reinert@AnokaCountyMN.gov.
Jeff Reinert is Anoka County Commissioner for District 3, representing Centerville, Circle Pines, Columbus, Lexington, Lino Lakes, Linwood and East Blaine.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and 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.
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• 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.
Jeff Reinert
Madeline’s Mail
Madeline Dolby
• The culvert that carries Clearwater Creek under Brian Drive was found to be under-designed for heavier loads and was demoted to “restricted bridge” status. This means the bridge is deemed unsafe for heavier vehicles, such as fire trucks. Because the city cannot allow fire trucks to be permanently prohibited from crossing the bridge in emergencies, it started the process of replacing the culvert under the bridge.
In May, the council requested a proposal from Stantec to design a replacement culvert that would be eligible for state bridge funds. To be eligible for the funds, the Minnesota Department of Transportation must approve a project’s completed plans. The council approved an engineering proposal from Stantec for $99,850, along with an additional $10,000 for a geotechnical exploration report. The cost of these services will be financed through the state’s street fund.
Stantec Engineer Kellie Schlegel said there will be $10 million available for projects in the state. Centerville will be on the waiting list, with no guarantee the city will receive some of that $10 million, she said. However, there is a high likelihood that more funds will be appropriated for 2026. For small communities, bridge funds, when available, can pay up to 100% of eligible costs to replace the structure, minus local contributions of $10,000 each for engineering and construction, Schlegel said. The city will not solicit bids for the project until the funds become available, which could be in 2026 or 2027, Schlegel said.
• The city has two municipal wells. Well No.1 is in McBride Memorial Park, and Well No. 2 is adjacent to City Hall. At a previous council work session, the council discussed the city’s capital improvement programs and requested that the rehabilitation of Well No. 1 be placed at high priority.
Because of the presence of sand, Well No. 1 has been designated an emergency well by the Minnesota Department of Health. That means the well can’t be used as a primary water source or during peak demand conditions unless Well No. 2 fails. If both well pumps fail, the city would need to rely solely on interconnects to meet water demand.
The council unanimously approved an engineering services proposal from Stantec in the amount of $24,666 to complete plans and specifications and to provide construction and startup support for the proposed Well No. 1 improvements. Financing for
this service will be drawn from the water fund.
• Due to its age and significant decline in reliability, the city has placed the upgrade of its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system at high priority status. SCADA is a type of central control system that uses technical devices, such as computers, to manage and monitor critical and time-sensitive infrastructure, such as a city’s sewer and water system. The existing system is not archiving data as it should; replacement parts are difficult to obtain, and the operating system cannot be upgraded.
The plan is to have Stantec evaluate what the city should consider in a replacement project. The total cost of the SCADA upgrade is expected to be approximately $100,000, split equally between the water and sewer funds. The $27,606 quote from Stantec would be approximately 20% of the entire project cost. However, the council had many questions. It unanimously tabled a request to approve the proposal for engineering services until staff is ready to bring the item back before the council.
• For two years, the city has been working toward buying and installing a Fiore tree in Cornerstone Park. The council unanimously authorized city staff to apply for a T-Mobile Hometown Grant and to accept the award if the application is successful. In September 2024, the council authorized the Parks and Recreation Committee to use up to $25,000 in park dedication fees for the tree. Staff said the grant is needed because the cost of the tree exceeds the allotted budget. If the grant is not awarded, staff will re-evaluate other options.
The Fiore tree is characterized as public art and reflects placemaking goals that the previous council established. There is widespread community support for the project. Supporters said the Fiore tree would be a wonderful placemaking initiative because it capitalizes on Cornerstone Park’s location. Approximately 11,000 cars per day drive by the park, which is highly visible to people entering the city. The Parks and Recreation Committee also has received support from the Economic Development Authority and several local organizations regarding this project.
• The city will receive design guidance in its planning endeavors from the Empowering Small Minnesota Communities team of the Minnesota Design Center at the University of Minnesota. Council members heard a presentation from Ursula Lane, research fellow with the center,
about the program. Funded through the state legislature, the program helps small state communities to develop resilient infrastructure while strengthening their social environment and economic fabric. Team members work with individual communities to best meet their needs, Lane said.
• In a report, City Administrator Athanasia Lewis said the city is still accepting applications to fill an upcoming vacancy on the council. The person filling that vacancy will complete the term of Council Member Darrin Mosher, which ends in January 2027. Submit applications in person at City Hall or via email to Lewis at alewis@centervillemn.com.
• Lewis reminded the public that the 2025 Main Street Market will take place every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. from July 17 to Aug. 21. The location is 1721 Westview Street, next to the Centerville Elementary parking lot. To date, the city has 21 vendors participating throughout the market season.
• Music in the Park continues every Tuesday evening until Aug. 19 at Hidden Spring Park. The city has already had two concerts, and 80-100 people attended each event. Bring your lawn chair and/or blanket for comfort.
• The Fete des Lacs Parade will start at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 19. Roads on the parade route will close at 10:30 a.m. that morning and remain closed until the parade ends. Streets affected by road closures are Main Street, Dupre Road and Meadow Lane. City staff advises residents to plan accordingly.
• The Centerville City Council adjourned into a closed session pursuant to Minnesota statutes that permit a body to close a meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations and to evaluate the performance or terms of employment for individuals subject to the public body’s authority. The purpose of this closed session was to discuss employment contract terms and related negotiations associated with hiring a new city administrator. The council then reopened the meeting to announce the general topics discussed in the closed session and to approve the employment contract with the city administrator.
Centerville welcomes new City Administrator
Athanasia Lewis will be Centerville’s next city administrator. The city conducted an extensive hiring process led by GMP, a firm that specializes in municipal searches. After interviewing three finalists, the city council unanimously voted to offer the position to Lewis.
“I am confident that we have selected the very best person to serve Centerville,” said Centerville Mayor Nancy Golden. “Athanasia rose to the top from a very talented pool of candidates and is well qualified for the role. She has deep knowledge of the city and has built positive relationships with residents, local business owners and local government officials over the last three years.”
Lewis served as interim city administrator since mid-February. Previously, she served as Centerville’s assistant city administrator for three years, assistant city administrator for Collierville, Tennessee and town administrator for Atoka, Tennessee. Lewis is also an active member of the Minnesota City/County Management Association (MCMA) and International City/County Management Association (ICMA).
“I’m honored to serve as the City Administrator for the City of Centerville,” said Lewis. “This community has a strong foundation built on collaboration, service and civic pride. I look forward to working closely with the Mayor, City Council, staff and residents to continue delivering high-quality services, strengthen organizational efficiency and support Centerville’s growth while preserving the small-town character that makes it such a special place to live.”
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
Loretta Harding
The council will host a welcome reception for Lewis at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13 at Centerville City Hall prior to the regularly scheduled council meeting. City hall is located at 1880 Main St.
SCHOOL BRIEF
CONTRIBUTED
Lino Lakes Elementary welcomes new principal
Katie Schultz will serve as the new principal of at Lino Lakes Elementary following Forest Lake Area School Board approval. Schultz will replace current Principal Sara Stratton, who is resigning from her position at the end of the month.
Schultz started her teaching career in North Branch and then moved into several years of teaching at Wyoming Elementary. She currently serves as a literacy instructional coach and curriculum coordinator in Forest Lake Area Schools where she works with teachers across the district. She also works closely with the science and math instructional coaches.
Schultz will officially begin her position as principal on July 21.
Madeline Dolby
CONTRIBUTED
Athanasia Lewis
Katie Schultz
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• An officer took a delayed stolen vehicle report June 24 in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. After an investigation, no suspect was identified and the vehicle was entered as stolen.
• An officer responded June 24 to a report of motor vehicles driving on a walking path in the 700 block of Fox Circle. The information has been passed on to other officers to provide extra patrol in the area.
• An officer responded June 24 to a business in the 800 block of Ash Street to take a burglary report. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officer attempted to arrest a male for several warrants June 24 in the 1900 block of Red Oak Lane. The male was not home and officers learned the male was already in custody with an out of state agency.
• Officers responded June 24 to a traffic complaint at the intersection of Town Center Parkway and Lake Drive. The officers located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. The driver was given a warning for driving conduct.
• Officers responded June 24 to a report of an indecent exposure incident on a trail in the 700 block of Aqua Lane. The officer investigated, but did not locate the male.
• An officer was dispatched June 25 to check an area in the 7700 block of Main Street where gunshots were possibly heard. The officer investigated and determined the noise was caused by fireworks.
• An officer responded June 25 to a two-vehicle property damage accident in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road. The officer found minor damage to both vehicles and there were no injuries reported. The involved parties were provided with the case number of the police report and both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• An officer responded June 25 to a request for assistance from a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive regarding a possible theft in progress. The officer determined no crime was committed.
• Officers responded June 26 to a report of a panhandler impeding traffic at the intersection of Birch Street and Hodgson Road. Officers provided the caller with information regarding panhandling.
• An officer was dispatched June 26 to speak with a resident in the 8200 block of Rondeau Lake Road W regarding the legal requirements of a gun sale. The officer answered their questions and suggested additional follow up with a licensed gun dealer.
• An officer responded June 26 to a report of a contained dog in the 6800 block of Otter Lake Road that was brought to the police department. The officer brought the dog to Otter Lake Animal Hospital.
• Officers responded June 26 to a two-vehicle crash that occurred at the intersection of Main Street and Interstate 35E with one reported injured party. The officer documented the crash and the injured party was evaluated by paramedics and declined further treatment.
• An officer responded June 26 to a found animal report in the 6600 block of West Shadow Lake Drive. The animal was brought to a local shelter.
• An officer stopped a vehicle June 27 at the intersection of Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N for an offense. The officer impounded the license plates for the vehicle.
• An officer took a report June 27 of a runaway juvenile in the 900 block of Kelly Street. While on the phone with the complainant, the juvenile returned home.
• Officers responded June 27 to a resident for a possible structure fire in the 6300 block of Hodgson Road. Officers found it was a recreational fire and educated the homeowner on the city ordinances regulating recreational fires.
• An officer took a phone call report June 27 regarding a possible identify theft in the 400 block of Main Street. The officer documented the incident and found no suspect information was available.
• An officer took a report of a lost dog June 27 in the 6900 block of Lake Drive. The animal has not been located.
• An officer stopped a vehicle June 28 in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road for a stop sign violation and issued the driver a citation.
• Officers were requested June 28 to assist a neighboring agency in the 1800 block of Main Street with a disorderly male who was assaulting staff and family members at a memory care facility. Officers assisted the responding agency who subsequently arrested the male without incident.
• Officer conducted a warrant attempt June 28 in the 900 block of Kelly Street. The male suspect was located, taken into custody and booked at jail.
• Officers assisted another agency June 28 with a single vehicle rollover accident at the intersection of Interstate 35W and Main Street. No injuries were reported, and the driver was subsequently arrested for DWI. Two children were transported from the scene to the custody of a parent.
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
CONTRIBUTED
Jordan (Manny) Collins Jr.
Anoka County Sheriff’s Office helps find remains
The Anoka County Sheriff’s Office and the Columbia Heights Police Department discovered the remains of 16-year-old Jordan (Manny) Collins Jr. on Friday, June 27, at a Waste Management Landfill in Elk River. According to a press release from the sheriff’s office, an autopsy has been conducted by the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. A cause of death has not yet been determined. Law enforcement from the Columbia Heights Police Department, Anoka County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) and the FBI are continuing to investigate Collin’s death. Additionally, teams remain at the landfill searching for evidence. Law enforcement, family and friends of Collins continue to urge those with information about the disappearance and death of Collins to come forward
• Officers responded June 28 to a report of a missing juvenile in the 2000 block of Red Oak Lane. The juvenile was located inside the residence and no further police assistance was needed.
• Officers responded June 28 to an ordinance complaint regarding people riding dirt bikes on public property in the 900 block of Kelly Street. An officer spoke to the resident regarding the violation and educated him on city ordinances.
• Officers responded June 29 to a report of a suspicious male at a church in the 7700 block of 20th Avenue. Officers observed the male and documented the suspicious activity. No crime occurred and the male left the location.
• A resident brought a contained dog with no collar to the police station June 29. An officer brought the dog to an animal care center. Later in the day, the owner called in and was informed on where their dog was.
• An officer took a report June 29 of an endangered missing person in the 1500 block of Stoneybrook Drive. After an investigation, the male was located and brought to a hospital.
• An officer responded June 29 to a dog bite incident that occurred in the 800 block of Fox Road. The investigation is ongoing.
• Officers responded June 30 to a report of someone pounding on a door late at night in the 1400 block of Sherman Lake Road. Officers followed footprints to another residence and spoke with the occupants about the incident.
• An officer responded June 30 to a phone call report regarding possible narcotics information in the 6800 block of Rustic Lane. The information was documented, and the investigation is ongoing.
Editor’s note: Press Publications will publish two weeks worth of police reports from the Centennial Lakes Police Department in the next edition due to the holiday.
with their information. Tips may be submitted to the BCA Resource Line at 1-877-996-6222 or bca.tips@ state.mn.us.
Centennial Lakes Police Department Officer celebrates 25 years of service
Centennial Lakes Police Department Officer Benjamin (BJ) Stepan celebrated 25 years of service with the police department last month. Officer Stepan began his career with the department as an emergency medical technician. Over the years, he has partnered closely with local fire departments to ensure officers receive up-to-date, annual training in emergency medical response.
The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.
CONTRIBUTED Officer Benjamin Stepan.
Lino Lakes student wins national championship, qualifies
Noah Sanvick, from Lino Lakes, won gold in the Microsoft Word group at the Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship in Dallas, TX. Sanvick will now join students from around the world to compete for the title of World Champion at the Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship July 27 to July 30 in Orlando, Florida. Recently, Press Publications sat down with Sanvick to learn more about him and what he is doing to prepare for the world championship.
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A. I’m a Bethel student, about to be a resident assistant. I love Taco Bell, Jesus and “Cars 2.” I run a streetwear brand with friends.
Q. What got you interested in work with Microsoft Office tools?
A. As a business major at Bethel University, I knew that having Microsoft Office skills would help me get and succeed in a job, we also are required to become certified in Microsoft Office for the business program.
Q. What Office application do you feel strongest in, and why?
A. Microsoft Word is most comfortable to me because of all the testing and studying I’ve had to do for it, but also just because I’ve used it the most.
Q. How long have you been participating in Microsoft Office Specialist competitions?
A. This was my first year participating in the Microsoft Office Specialist competition.
Q. How do you prepare for the competitions?
A. I took my friends laptop and watched videos and practiced using the objectives I’d need to know to become comfortable in Word.
Q. How much time do you dedicate to practicing each week?
A. I set a couple of hours aside the week before the test to go over the objectives to make sure I’m confident in the program.
Q. What was your reaction when you found out you won the National Championship and qualified for the World Championships?
A. My immediate reaction was shock, dumbfounded that I won and disbelief that I get to go to the World Championships.
Q. How are you preparing for the World Championships at the end of July?
A. I will make sure to review the material, but I’m trying not to stress too much, as even going to the World Championships is a feat in and of itself.
Q. What are you most looking forward to come competition time?
A. I am most excited for reconnecting with the other U.S. winners and spending some time in Orlando with my family.
Q. What have you learned about yourself through this experience?
A. I’ve learned that I don’t let pressure get to me. I had a fun experience there, met some new people and am grateful I won, especially because I wasn’t overthinking it.
Q. What advice would you give someone who’s never heard about the championship, but might be interested?
A. I’d advise to take the certification tests as that itself is good for getting a job in the business world and taking the extra time to earn a qualifying
score for the championships, you totally should as it shows greatness to employers and is such a fun experience. Who knows what could happen?
Compiled by Madeline Dolby
CONTRIBUTED
Noah Sanvick won first place in the Microsoft Word group at the Micrsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship at the end of June in Dallas, Texas.
Schedule of Events
Tuesday - July 15th
6:00 p.m. Opening ceremony
6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Capital City Wind Ensemble at Hidden Spring Park
Wednesday - July 16th
6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Safety night at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park
Thursday - July 17th
5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Mainstreet Market Food trucks and more
7:00 p.m. Bald Eagle Waterski Show at Trailside Park, Centerville Lake
Friday - July 18th
5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Food trucks, Junior bags, Bingo
6:00 - 8:30 p.m. Kids Dance DJ Beer Garden Fireworks at dusk at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park
Saturday - July 19th
7:30 a.m. 5K/8K Run
8:30 a.m. Kids "FUN" Run
11:00 a.m. Parade - Kid Fest following Parade - Car Show following Parade - Food trucks - Beer Garden
1:00 p.m. Bags tournament
4:00-6:00 p.m. Bingo
6:00-9:00 p.m. DJ - all ages welcome
Sunday - July 20th
11:00 a.m. - Canoe races at Trailside Park, Centerville Lake
Fete des Lacs honors veterans, the stars and stripes
BY TYLER QUATTRIN NEWS INTERN
Centerville will shine red, white and blue as it hosts the 34th annual Fete des Lacs July 15-20, with the theme “America the Beautiful.”
The five-day event, hosted by the city of Centerville and the Centerville Lions Club, will feature festival favorites, including the Kids Dance DJ on Friday and the parade and car show on Saturday, along with many other activities.
The “America the Beautiful” theme aims to “bring us all together as one country,” Centerville Lions President Mel Lawlis said. “There’s so much divide right now. I think it’s just ‘America the Beautiful’, be proud of our country.”
To match the theme, the parade will not feature one individual as its grand marshal this year. Instead, “all veter-
ans” will be recognized.
The festival is free for everyone to attend, except for a fee to participate in Bingo and the bag tournaments.
New additions to this year’s event include an additional night of Bingo, a Lions Club food truck at the Mainstreet Market and a junior bags tournament for ages 12 to 17.
DJ Skoolz will also make his Fete des Lacs debut Saturday night with an all-ages set.
French for “Festival of Lakes,” Fete des Lacs was started to celebrate the city’s French-Canadian heritage.
Planning for the annual tradition begins nearly a year in advance and ramps up in January, Lawlis said.
After a stretch of less-than-ideal weather this summer, organizers are hoping for sunshine during this year’s celebration.
DJ Skoolz to make Fete debut
BY TYLER QUATTRIN NEWS INTERN
DJ Skoolz, a familiar face from local school dances, will bring an open-format, all-ages set to Fete des Lacs at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 19.
In addition to DJing, he will co-host the 11 a.m. parade alongside former Centerville Mayor D. Love.
Behind the turntables, DJ Skoolz is Tom Schoolmeesters: a family man, materials manager at a printing company, president of the Centennial Youth Hockey program and former 14-year Lino Lakes resident now living in Columbus.
As a DJ, Schoolmeesters enjoys doing it all, and that’s the approach he’s bringing to Fete des Lacs. Engaging large, mixed-age crowds is both his biggest challenge and one of the most rewarding parts of his work, he said.
“There's nothing better than live music with instruments. However, that doesn't relate very well to a park full of all kinds of people, and it's very tough to entertain a big crowd like that,” he said.
“The most entertaining part of my career now is that I can take that kind of crowd and just adapt
to what they are doing, what they want to hear, and let them request some songs that they want to hear, and go from there.”
Schoolmeesters has been a musician since starting percussion in the third grade. His DJ career began when he worked as a doorman and security guard at different establishments.
“A day that a DJ didn't come in, I was in there messing around with the equipment and thought, being a musician, ‘I think I could figure out how to learn how to do this stuff,’” he said.
After investing in his own turntables, he did just that, and realized he was better than other aspiring DJs, he said.
Now, nearly three decades later, Schoolmeesters is marking his
27th year behind the turntables.
During his time DJing in nightclubs, he was contacted by schools looking for DJs for dances. He realized that he was a good fit and signed on.
He’s DJ’d for St. Croix Preparatory Academy, Anoka High School, Spring Lake Park High School and always does Centennial High School’s dances.
He has also performed at weddings, elementary school fundraisers and other community events, such as Blue Heron Days.
Schoolmeesters and his wife, Kellie, have two sons, both following in his percussionist footsteps.
Their oldest son, Nate, is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and played percussion there after Centennial High School’s music program. Their youngest son, 11-year-old Tanner, will begin middle school band this fall, also as a percussionist.
Schoolmeesters said performing in the community is his way of giving back.
“Music’s just my life,” Schoolmeester said. “So, I just love being able to share the talent and skill with everyone else.”
2025 annual Fete des Lacs Logo Contest winners named
The city received 103 entries from Centennial Middle School students and X entries from Centerville Elementary School for the 2025 Fete des Lacs logo contest.
The contest committee chose a first and second-place winner from each school as well as honorable mentions. Mayor Nancy Golden presented the winning students with a letter of congratulations, an
award certificate and a check.
Centerville Elementary School fourth grader Emma Scanlon won first place and received a $100 check for her accomplishment; Fifth grader Rose Vang won second place, fetching a $50 check; and fifth grader Leon Keefe won honorable mention fetching her a $25 check.
Centennial Middle School sixth grader Hannah
Ziobro received first place; Eight grader Alexandria Mckelvey won second place; and Isaac Christensen, eighth grade, received honorable mention.
The first two place winners will have their logos placed on Fete des Lacs flyers and 5K/8K T-shirts.
Just a friendly reminder of the Main Street road closure on parade day from approximately 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The street closure is in blue. Purple is the staging area for the parade floats. The orange marks are no entry/exit points and are where street barricades will be placed. 20th Avenue (in green) will remain open for use. Please plan accordingly during this time frame.
For weather information, event updates and/or cancellations, follow Fete des Lacs on Facebook.
Madeline Dolby
Students at Centerville Elementary and Centennial Middle School were eligible to participate in the contest.
The contest helps recognize exceptional businesses, Press Publications General Manager Patty Steele said. Winning a badge adds credibility to a business for someone making a buying decision.
“There’s nothing better for a business than to be able to get those kinds of votes, because that tells you as a business, you are doing something right,” she said, “Because you don’t just get
the (winner/finalist) badge. You have to earn the badge from your patrons or customers.”
The contest, which started in 2021, is gaining popularity each year. Last year, participation surged, with more than 25,000 votes and a 75% increase in nominations. This year, there were 10,000 more nominations.
Voting is available 24/7 on the Press Publications website at presspubs.com/quad/bestof. Each reader may vote up to one time per day.
Voting ends at 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3.
Winners and finalists will be recognized in a special section the first week of October. Winners will also be posted online.
Tyler Quattrin is an intern for Press Publications. He can be reached at intern2@presspubs. com or 651-407-1200.
CHURCH BRIEF
Living Waters Lutheran Church puts on annual garage sale
Living Waters Lutheran Church will host its annual garage sale July 17-19. The sale will be from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, July 18 and Friday, July 19; 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, July 19. Donations are being accepted Saturday, July 12 through Wednesday, July 16.
For more information, visit livingwaterslutheran.org/garagesale. Living Waters Lutheran Church is located at 865 Birch St., Lino Lakes.
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S E R V I C E
Swimmer’s itch: The what, why and what to do?
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
During the summer, one can expect hundreds, if not thousands, of eager swimmers flocking to the beaches across Minnesota to take a refreshing dip. However, they may inadvertently pick up an uncomfortable, if not painful, skin rash that requires extra treatment.
That rash is called “swimmer’s itch,” also referred to as “cercarial dermatitis.” Typically, it is caused by an allergic reaction to parasites found in freshwater lakes and ponds, although it can also be contracted in saltwater environments. These parasites are called Schistosoma, a type of flatworm that lays its eggs in duck feces. After they hatch, they move on to find a new host, primarily by infecting freshwater snails and developing into a larval flatworm form called Cercariae. When a swimmer comes into contact with the larvae, the latter burrows under their skin, leading to the development of the titular rash.
“They attempt to bear into our skin, and in that process, they don’t survive,” said Don Eaton, an aquatic invertebrate biologist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “But in that process, we have an allergic reaction to these tiny worm larvae.”
The most common symptoms of swimmer’s itch are persistent itching and the development of small, red pimples and blisters on the skin. Symptoms can take up to 12 hours to develop and, while it is not contagious, can last for a week or slightly longer. Most cases of swimmer’s itch do not require medical attention and can be treated through various means.
D I R E C T O R Y
Some of the most common and effective methods involve applying anti-itch lotions to the affected areas, as well as using cool compresses, bathing in Epsom salts or baking soda or spreading baking paste directly to the rash itself. Baking paste can be made by mixing water and baking soda until a paste-like consistency is formed.
Since swimmer’s itch is more prevalent during the summer months, it is essential to take great care to prevent contracting it. Swimmers must avoid areas where there is a known problem, and they should also refrain from swimming or wading in marshy areas where snails are commonly found. They should also towel dry or shower immediately after leaving the water. Applying water-proof sunscreen is also helpful.
To learn more about swimmer’s itch, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/swimmers-itch/about/index.html.
Swimmer’s itch symptoms:
• Tingling, burning and/or itchy skin
• Small red pimples/blisters developing on skin
How to prevent swimmer’s itch:
• Don’t swim in areas where it is a known issue.
• Apply water-proof sunscreen.
How to treat swimmer’s itch:
• Apply anti-itch lotions or cold compresses.
• Take Epsolm salt or baking soda baths.
• Spread baking paste on affected areas.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
SUMMARY FINANCIAL REPORT
CITY OF LINO LAKES SUMMARY FINANCIAL REPORT
The purpose of this report is to provide summary financial information concerning the City of Lino Lakes to interested citizens. The complete financial statements may be examined at City Hall, 600 Town Center Pkwy, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 or online at linolakes.us/249/finance. Questions about this report should be directed to the Finance Director, at (651) 982-2405.
The purpose of this report is to provide summary financial information concerning the City of Lino Lakes to interested citizens. The complete financial statements may be examined at City Hall, 600 Town Center Pkwy, Lino Lakes, MN 55014 or online at linolakes.us/249/finance. Questions about this report should be directed to the Finance Director, at (651) 982-2405.
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR GENERAL OPERATIONS GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES FOR GENERAL OPERATIONS (GOVERNMENTAL FUNDS)
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on July 8, 2025. CITY OF LINO LAKES, MINNESOTA STATEMENT OF NET POSITION Statement 7 PROPRIETARY FUNDS December 31, 2024
Amounts
Business-Type Activities - Enterprise Funds
4,894,3881,208,076(55,507)6,046,957
5,094,747736,859115,9095,947,515
33,713,93931,533,345247,47565,494,759
$38,808,686$32,270,204$363,384$71,442,274
Grants and ContributionsTransfers - Net
$8,127,415($2,080,458)
(6,008,188)6,008,188
Amounts reported on the statement of activities $2,119,227$3,927,730
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 44 CITY OF LINO LAKES STATEMENT OF REVENUES, EXPENSES AND CHANGES IN FUND NET POSITION PROPRIETARY FUNDS For The Year Ended
Students take part in summer programs
District students take part in summer Cougar Strength, Paper Mache Day, Summer Kids Club C.A.M.P and more through Centennial Community Education. Classes and programs are
all summer long. To learn more, visit isd12.ce.eleyo.com.
PUBLIC NOTICES
Centennial girls receive all-state title Junior Alex Larson, seniors Nora Helvig and Mia Jarombek were named to the Minnesota Vikings All-State Team this season for flag football. The Cougars finished with a 7-1 record in their inaugural season. Their lone loss came from Mahtomedi. The roster consisted of 33 girls between the junior varsity and varsity teams, coming from a variety of different athletics backgrounds like soccer and hockey.
PHOTOS BY JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Alexis Larson, Nora Helvig and Mia Jarombeck were named to the Minnesota Vikings All-State team for flag football.
PHOTOS
SP TTED
1. Quad area residents and Centennial Lakes Police Department Officer Benjamin Stepan join up for Bike with a Cop. — Centennial Lakes Police Department, contributed
2. The Centerville Lions Club served burgers for troops at the American Legion Post 620 in Hugo. Proceeds from the event were donated to the Hugo Yellow Ribbon Network to help military families. The Lions were joined by Lino Lakes Ambassadors Emily Black and Amelia Patterson. — Contributed
3. Lino Lakes Ambassadors Emily Black and Amelia Patterson enjoy dessert with past ambassadors and the 2025 candidates. —Contributed
4. Kayla McKinney has joined the Lino Lakes Police Department as an officer. Officer McKinney started her career as a community service officer for the city in 2024. — Lino Lakes Police Department, contributed
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to quadnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
QUAD STUDENT NEWS
The following students from the Quad area were named to the Dean’s or President’s list or received academic honors at a college or university in Spring 2025: University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Cermela VanZyl, Claire Zandstra, Aiden Lieser
Maryland Global Campus: Cody Anderson Emerson College: Keira Schuett
The following students recently graduated from a college or university: Lawrence University: Nina Broberg
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Centennial Food Shelf participates in summer challenge
The Centennial Food Shelf will participate in the 16th annual Open Your Hearts to the Hungry and Homeless Summer Challenge. The challenge is a grant initiative that provides matching funds up to $4,000 to participating Minnesota food shelves throughout July.
Last year, participating food shelves raised nearly $3 million during the month of July—making it one of the most impactful funding initiatives of its kind in the state. For a full list of participants or to get involved, visit oyh.org/summer-challenge.
Register your block for Night to Unite
Night to Unite will take place on Aug. 5. If your neighborhood is interested in participating, make sure to register your block party with the Centennial Lakes Police Department by Friday, July 25 or the Anoka County Sheriff’s office by the end of the month. For more information or to register, go to www.anokacountymn. gov/1979/Night-to-Unite or contact Community Service Officer Mara Smith at msmith@clpdmn.com or call 763-784-2501.
