Lino Lakes Post 566 honors service members with ceremony, picnic
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
The Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566 will honor service members who have passed and hold a family community picnic from 5-8 p.m. Monday, May 26, on Memorial Day. The Legion has hosted a Memorial Day service for over a decade. The ceremony will start
with a call to order at 5 p.m. by Commander Scott Nordstrom. Following the call to order, Auxiliary Member Maxwell Lesch will lead the national anthem before the opening prayer is given by Auxiliary Chaplain D’Arcy McGee. Nordstrom will provide opening remarks. Anoka County Commissioner Jeff Reinert will be a guest speaker during the ceremony as well as state
Representative Elliott Engen. Following the guest speakers, a poem titled “In Flander’s Fields” will be read by McGee. “In Flander’s Fields” was written by Lt.-Col. John McCrae, a Canadian doctor, while he served on the front lines in Europe. He died of pneumonia near the end of the war.
Lino Lakes welcomes new chief of police, fire chief
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Earlier this year, Citygate Associates presented its final recommendations, advising the Lino Lakes City Council to restructure the city’s Public Safety Department into independent police and fire departments (See “Public Safety Department receives final report,” Quad Community Press, May 6, 2025). This proposed change meant that two new leadership roles would need to be established: chief of police and fire chief, who would oversee their respective departments.
At the most recent Lino Lakes City Council meeting, Mayor Rob Rafferty inducted Curt Boehme as the new chief of police and Dan L’Allier as the fire chief.
Chief of Police Curt Boehme Boehme joined the Lino Lakes Police Department in 2006 as a patrol officer and was promoted to sergeant in 2018. He was also responsible for leading the department’s new office training program during this time. From December 2020 to December 2024, he served as the investigation’s unit supervisor, overseeing a team of investigators and an investigate assistant.
Since Feb. 1, 2025, Boehme has been serving as interim public safety director after the retirement of the former director, John Swenson, earlier this year.
SEE NEW CHIEFS, PAGE 5
Clearwater Commons development proposes 3 commercial sites
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
LINO LAKES — Three commercial lots have been proposed by Capital Real Estate Inc. to be built north of Main Street, west of I-35E, east of 21st Avenue North and south of the park and ride. The development is being called Clearwater Commons.
Included in the preliminary plat is a proposed Chipotle restaurant, a future retail store, auto service store and an undecided development. The 14-acre site is located to the east of Centerville.
“The three lots are being proposed on the very south end of the development along Main Street,” City Planner
Katie Larsen said. “Lot 1 is where the proposed Chipotle is, Lot 2 is future retail and Lot 3 could be a potential development.”
The staff report stated that the development is consistent with the comprehensive plan for commercial development and zoning requirements for general business lot size and lot width.
A preliminary report of geotechnical exploration prepared by American
Engineering Testing in 2024 stated that the site is an existing agricultural property with fairly flat terrain toward the center and higher banks on the northwest and southeast corners. Wetlands exist on the site.
According to Larsen, the main full access point will be off of 21st Avenue N.
A new access point will be constructed to the south of the property from Main Street that will be right in/right out. Two private drives will lead to the development.
SEE CLEARWATER COMMONS, PAGE 2
The Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566 will host a Memorial Day Ceremony and community picnic from 5-8 p.m. Monday, May 26.
CONTRIBUTED
Clearwater Commons would be located north of Main Street, west of I-35E, east of 21st Avenue North and south of the park and ride in Lino Lakes.
CLEARWATER COMMONS: Chipotle, retail spaces included in site plans
FROM PAGE 1
The staff report stated that the development is consistent with the comprehensive plan for commercial development and zoning requirements for general business lot size and lot width.
A preliminary report of geotechnical exploration prepared by American Engineering Testing in 2024 stated that the site is an existing agricultural property with fairly flat terrain toward the center and higher banks on the northwest and southeast corners. Wetlands exist on the site.
According to Larsen, the main full access point will be off of 21st Avenue N. A new access point will be constructed to the south of the property from Main Street that will be right in/right out. Two private drives will lead to the development. There will be no public streets.
• Six or seven trees have been donated to the Park Board by a local family, according to City Administrator Patrick Antonen. The trees will be planted on Tuesday, June 3. Antonen said that the City Council and Park Board will possibly meet on June 17 to discuss the city’s parks plans.
• Council Member Matt Percy said that the Centennial Fire District and other fire crews within Anoka County are looking to bring its training program “back in house.” For the last 10 to 15 years, the county has partnered with Century College to educate incoming firefighters. Recently, concerns have been
“There is a trail along the east side of 21st (Avenue). They are proposing a sidewalk on the north side of the eastwest private road,” Larsen said.
A traffic study was completed in April 2025. The study analyzed the intersection at Main Street and 21st Avenue N. and the intersection of 21st Avenue N. at the bank driveway and Michaud Way. According to the study, the proposed development is estimated to generate 107 trips during the morning peak traffic hours, 90 trips during the evening peak traffic hours and 1,496 daily trips.
According to the study, the level of service (LOS) does not degrade by more than one LOS. Therefore, the traffic generated by the proposed development is within the capabilities of the traffic network.
“It’s good to see the large amount of interest in this area. The first development proposed for the
raised about the quality of the education taking place through the current program.
• Cori Sendle, community education director of Centennial Community Education, gave a presentation to the council about the programs Centennial Community Education offers to the public throughout the year.
• The city will renew its fiber service agreement with Connect Anoka County for another five years following council approval. This agreement provides continued high-speed, reliable connectivity between city facilities with no changes to the current service level or network configuration. The service cost
Watermark area was Hardwood Creek. They (the developer) had a big commercial component on the south side of the development, and they took out that commercial component. There is sufficient land, and it’s good to see that it’s finally being developed,” said Planning and Zoning Board Chair Michael Root.
Lino Lakes resident Ryan Salmon, a citizen of the White Earth nation, expressed his concerns about traffic levels.
“My concern is the traffic congestion.” said Salmon. “Amazon is coming in and out at all hours of the day at that intersection. That intersection does not have a clear right way for traffic coming from Amazon. Sometimes I have to wait three lights to turn left to get on to I-35E South. What does the addition of commercial add to that?”
Community Development Director
is expected to increase from $75 per month to $150 per month. The agreement will continue until Aug. 16, 2030.
• Circle Pines resident Mark Sandmann said that the Experimental Aircraft Association will host a fly-in breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 28, at the Anoka County-Blaine Airport. The airport is located at 8891 Airport Road, Box C1, Blaine.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 27.
Madeline Dolby
Michael Grochala said that the signaling timing at that intersection goes through Anoka County but is ultimately set by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
“They’re timed to benefit the freeway first, the county road second and the local road third. MnDOT requires free flowing activity, people getting on and off the freeway; Anoka County wants to manage traffic on Main Street; so if there are delays it’s going to be on the side street,” he said. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval 6-0.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
CALENDAR BRIEF
Learn the basics of silver soldering May 31
Community Education will hold an intro to silver soldering class from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31. Learn the basics of silver soldering by making a stackable silver ring from scratch. Participants will use a small hand-held butane torch along with other basic jewelers’ tools to make a ring with a bezel-set stone. The class will be led by Erin Proctor, a metal artist jeweler and instructor for 15 years. The class will take place on the east campus of Centennial High School, 4757 North Road, Circle Pines, in room 140. Registration is required through the Community Education website
CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
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
CURRENT EVENTS
CENTENNIAL HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL BOOSTERS ANNUAL MEETING
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 20
Where: Trapper’s Bar and Grill, 6810 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes
Details: This annual meeting will recap business from this season and vote in any new board members for the 2025-26 school year. Contact: sites.google.com/view/centennial-highschool-basebal
COMMUNITY BRIEF
Watershed district hosts shoreline maintenance workshop
The Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) will host a shoreline maintenance workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. May 20 at White Bear Lake Lions Park, 4410 Lake Ave. S. Designers
from Metro Blooms Design+Build will cover the importance of restoring native plants to shorelines and the impact it has on water quality and native habitat. Staff members from RCWD will be on hand to share about the site and the importance of native aquatic and emergent vegetation in a restoration. Participants will receive a resilient
Upcoming Games
May 20 - 25 Norfolk Tides May 27 - June 1 Omaha Storm Chasers
ENCORE WIND ENSEMBLE
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake
Details: Top instrumentalists perform traditional and contemporary works. Ticket information online
Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
COUNTRY ROADS: A TRIBUTE TO JOHN DENVER
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 23
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake
Details: Musical performance by six piece tribute band includes stories and recollections. Ticket information online.
Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
SPRING BIRDING WITH ANOKA COUNTY PARKS
When: 9-11 a.m. Friday, May 23
Where: Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, 9750 Egret Blvd. NW
Details: Anoka County Parks offers guided birding programs suitable for ages eight and up as well as all skill levels. Learn how to find and identify bird species during the migration season. Contact: nicole.greenwell@anokacountymn.gov or 763-324-3300
Editor’s note: See memorial day events on page 12.
shorelines workbook and access to an accompanying online learning series. Registration fees for residents within the watershed district will be waived. To register, or find out if you live within the district, visit https://bluethumb.org/ event/planting-forclean-water-shorelines.
Meet the Author and Book Signing
When: 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, May 21
Where: Kelly’s Korner, 7089 Centerville Road, Centerville
Details: Meet local author Thia Nova and celebrate the release of her poem collection titled “Cause Mama Said So.” Books will be available for purchase. Cash only.
Contact: ThiaNova.com
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Fire extinguisher training with live fire
The Centennial Fire District will host a fire extinguisher training class from 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22. Learn how to pull the safety pin and spray the extinguisher. The class is open to adults only and will be held on a quarterly basis. Classes will be held at Station No. 1, located at 2 East Road, Circle Pines.
To RSVP, contact Aaron Olson at aaron.olson@centennialfire.org. Each class will be limited to 20 adults.
Students bring fireworks to Centennial Middle School, no disruptions
On Wednesday, May 7, students at Centennial Middle School brought fireworks to school. Principal Bob Stevens said there were no classroom disruptions, but the items were found on school grounds.
Per the school district’s school weapons policy, fireworks are prohibited from school property. As part of procedure, the fireworks were turned over to police.
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
OPINION
Unforgettable story
Acouple of weeks ago I sat down with Gary Carlberg and Bill Milashius from American Legion Post 168 in White Bear Lake to learn about what is planned for this year’s Memorial Day events. During our conversation, they told me about White Bear Lake’s own Major Curtis Donald Feistner, who was killed in 2002, and I knew this was going to be a big story.
As the news team was preparing for this week’s Memorial Day issue, I couldn’t help but feel immense pressure that my story was just as special as Curt was to truly honor him the way he deserves.
Shannon’s
Shenanigans
Shannon Granholm
I wanted to learn everything I could about him. Where he grew up, why he went into the military, where he went to school, what sports he played, what hobbies he enjoyed, what was important to him, what his military career looked like and what ultimately led to his untimely death on Feb. 21, 2002, in a helicopter crash in the Philippines.
I was lucky enough to talk to one of Curt’s brothers, Alan Feistner, who now lives in Walla Walla, Washington. Alan also served in the military as an engineer for the Army for 20 years. Alan told me all about his younger brother and reminisced about the day he will never forget, the day he was given the news that his brother was “missing in action” and wouldn’t be coming home.
During my research on Curt, I stumbled upon a piece written by Scott Storkamp on the West Point website and knew I needed to talk to him too. Turns out, Scott attended high school with Curt and their paths continued to cross after graduation, both at West Point and later when they were both stationed in Hawaii.
I also connected with John Doherty who knew Curt from high school sports. Curt became John’s inspiration, and around the 10th anniversary of his death, John was in Kabul, Afghanistan, and flew a flag in Curt’s honor at the International Security Assistance Board Headquarters. He then returned that flag to Curt’s hometown, which will now be displayed at the Legion for all to see and remember Curt’s sacrifice.
Curt’s story was tough to write on so many levels. I wanted to make sure I got across how inspirational he was to so many. But I also don’t have much experience with the military, because the only relative I know of that served was my mother’s father, Leo Slavotinek. He died in 1970 when my mom was only 8 years old. I’m told Leo was drafted into the Air Force (1952-1956) and stationed in both Japan and Korea.
I’m so thankful my sources took the time to explain how truly incredible it was that Curt was accepted to and graduated from West Point and went on to serve as the commander of Special Operations Air Regiment-Task Force 160th (the Night Stalkers).
This Memorial Day, I hope everyone can take a moment out of their boat ride or picnic to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day. It is a day to remember all the American servicemen and women who died while serving their country. That’s the least we can do for their families who are forever changed because of a tragedy.
To see the full story about Curt, visit presspubs.com.
Shannon Granholm is the managing editor at Press Publications.
Coming soon to fruit trees: Plum Curculio
It’s finally spring, and for those of us who are lucky enough to have stone fruit trees like peaches, plums and cherries, we are seeing the first blossoms of the year. With them come the dreams of harvesting bushels of deliciously sweet and juicy fruit later this summer. Unfortunately, something darker and more sinister is also stirring beneath our trees, and it has plans to ruin those harvests. It’s time to start looking for signs of the plum curculio.
I learned about this pest of stone fruit (and apple) trees last year when I noticed dozens of immature plums and peaches dropping from my trees in late June. They all had puncture marks next to clear, tacky droplets. I scoured extension websites and finally identified the pest, but it was too late to save most of my peaches.
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The plum curculio is a snoutnosed beetle that overwinters in the soil underneath and around fruit trees. They become active within the two weeks after the blossoms drop. The adults feed on developing fruit and mate; then females will pierce the fruit’s skin and lay an egg, which will hatch within a week or two. A female plum curculio can lay a few hundred eggs in her lifetime, which is why it is considered one of the most devastating pests of stone fruit. The grubs will tunnel further into the fruit, go through a few molting cycles and then tunnel back out of the fruit to finish the pupal cycle on the ground. They will emerge as adults about a month later to feed and seek winter shelter, starting the cycle over again.
How to spot damage:
• Crescent-shaped entry holes where an egg has been laid.
• Premature fruit drop and misshapen fruit.
• Brown marks where adults have fed.
• Appearance of adults on trees. If you see them after fruit has developed, chances are they’ve already laid some eggs.
Managing Plum Curculio:
• Good horticultural sanitation practices are the first defense. Remove fallen fruit immediately and dispose of them in the garbage, not your compost heap or the woods, or you’ll be sorry next year!
• “Shake it off.” Take an old sheet (lighter colors are better) and drape it on the ground under your tree early in the day, when adults are sluggish. Shake the tree gently to dislodge, and dispatch them in a pail of soapy water, along with any Japanese beetles you find.
• Remove unmanaged or wild fruit trees from your property. This includes apple and crabapple trees.
I did manage to rescue a few peaches and plums last year. This year, I am going to experiment with using muslin drawstring bags on my developing peaches to see if a physical barrier will prevent the eggs from being laid in the first place.
For more information on Plum Curculio, visit anokamastergardeners.org.
Paulette Greenberg is an Anoka County Master Gardener with the University of Minnesota Extension.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
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.
• 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.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
NEW CHIEFS: Both committed to building strong departments, relationships
“I do not take this new role lightly. I understand that the title of ‘chief” and the badge I wear are more than just symbols of authority. They are symbols of service, accountability and trust. I am committed in leading the police department with integrity, collaboration, fairness and gratitude,” Boehme said.
He added that residents’ safety, rights and trust will be a priority when making decisions moving forward.
“I’m committed to listening to your concerns and working collaboratively to address the challenges we will face,” he said. “This is a pivotal time for our police department as we work to build our team, strengthen relationships and move towards a bright future.”
“I’m honored to take on this responsibility and I pledge to give this role my very best, each and every day,” Boehme concluded.
Fire Chief Dan L’Allier
overseeing a team of 32 full-time personnel.
While at Lino Lakes, L’Allier has led the development of the fire division, including staffing models, apparatus acquisition and the construction of Fire Station 2. He has been serving as interim fire chief since Feb. 1, 2025.
“Today is a historic event for the city of Lino Lakes,” L’Allier said.
“This is the first time since 1958 that the city will have a fire department.”
Over the last 67 years, the city has either contracted for fire protection services, participated in a joint powers agreement for fire protection, or provided those services through the city’s Public Safety Department.
L’Allier is the city’s first full-time fire chief.
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be named the first fire chief for the city of Lino Lakes,” he said. “I am looking forward to leading the fine men and women of the Lino Lakes Fire Department. Every day as we build this great agency, we will be better than the day before.”
Boehme and L’Allier both started their respective positions on May 12, 2025.
Dan L’Allier brings over 40 years of experience in firefighting, emergency medical services (EMS) and emergency management. Prior to coming to Lino Lakes in 2014 he served as fire chief/ emergency manager/ tactical paramedic for the Virginia Fire and EMS Department,
CITY BRIEF
Lino Lakes appoints new city administrator
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 5/18/2025 Metro
Karen Anderson will serve as the city’s next city administrator. The position opened in November 2024 after former City Administrator Sarah Cotton announced her resignation (See “Lino Lakes searches for interim administrator,” Quad Community Press, Oct. 29, 2024). According to the city, Anderson will start on Monday, June 16.
CITY OF LINO LAKES NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on June 9, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following:
• Drainage and Utility Easement Vacation
- PID #24-31-22-21-0003
- Outlot A, ALINO Addition
For further information regarding the above item, please contact City Engineer, Diane Hankee, at 651-982-2430. Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400.
Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk
Published two times in the Quad Community Press on May 20 and 27, 2025.
CITY OF CENTERVILLE
NOTICE OF HEARING
The City of Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the Centerville City Hall, 1880 Main Street in the Council Chambers beginning at 6:30 p.m. or shortly thereafter on the following matter:
ITEM: Variance
PETITIONER: Charles Peterson, DBA JPs Remodeling & Jaycee Services, LLC
PROPERTY I.D. #: R#23-31-22-24-0035
LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 10 & 11, BLK 6, CENTERVILLE, SUBJ TO EASE OF REC
ADDRESS: 7064 Centerville
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PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Mayor Rob Rafferty swears in Curt Boehme as the city’s new chief of police. Boehme has served as the interim police chief since Feb. 1, 2025.
Mayor Rob Rafferty swears in Dan L’Allier as the city’s fire chief for the newly created Lino Lakes Fire Department at a recent City Council meeting.
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• Officers were dispatched May 7 on a report of a suspicious vehicle in the 1700 block of Heritage Street in Centerville.
• Police responded May 7 regarding a suspicious person in the 200 block of Heritage Lane in Circle Pines. Police located a male but determined no criminal activity had occurred.
• Officers responded May 8 to a noise complaint in the 7100 block of Brian Way in Centerville.
• Officers were dispatched May 11 to a delayed report of burglary in the 600 block of Village Parkway in Circle Pines. No suspect information is available at this time.
• Police responded May 12 to a report of barking dogs in the 100 block of Canterbury Road in Circle Pines. The resident was advised of the complaint.
• Police responded May 12 to a report of a missing person in the 500 block of Village Parkway in Circle Pines.
• Officers stopped a vehicle May 12 in the 6700 block of Centerville Road in Centerville. The driver was arrested on an outstanding warrant.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• An officer investigated May 6 a report of a person illegally disposing of trash at a city park in the 600 block of Village Drive. The officer identified a possible suspect and the investigation is ongoing.
• An officer responded May 6 to a report of a suspicious vehicle stopped in the roadway in the 900 block of 81st Street W. with its hazard lights on. The officer made contact with a Door Dash driver who was stuck in the construction zone. The driver had a tow on the way.
• Officers responded to an anonymous report May 6 of a vehicle doing burnouts at the intersection of Woodridge Lane and Ash Street. Officers located one vehicle parked in the area but were unable to locate any criminal activity.
• Officers responded to a theft report May 6 from a local gas station in the 7500 block of Lake Drive. The officers located the juveniles, who returned the items. The officers transported the juveniles
• Multiple residents signed a letter that raised concerns about the development proposed by M/I Homes known as Natures Refuge North. Residents stated they are worried about the increase in traffic and traffic safety at Haywood Drive. They asked that the council suggest turning “Street B” into a fully accessible road. Currently, the road would only be accessible to emergency vehicles only, making Haywood Drive the development’s main entrance and exit route.
• Council approved the first reading of ordinance No. 07-25, which creates the Lino Lakes Police Department. Staff have been in the process of implementing recommendations outlined in the Citygate report, which included establishing a separate Police Department and Fire Department (See “Public Safety Department receives final report,” Quad Community Press, May 7, 2025). The ordinance will align with the new organizational structure. Council also approved the first reading of ordinance No. 08-25, which creates the Lino Lakes Fire Department.
• Curt Boehme will now serve as the chief of police within the newly created Lino Lakes Police Department (see full story in this week’s issue). The wage for Boehme will be $73.96 per hour, which is step 10 in a 10-step wage scale for the position.
• Dan L’Allier will serve as the fire chief within the newly created
home and spoke with the parents regarding the incident.
• An officer conducted a traffic stop in the 6900 block of 20th Avenue May 8 on a vehicle displaying a license plate for a different vehicle. The officer spoke with the driver and the owner of the license plate and advised them to correct the license plate issue.
• Officers responded May 8 to a report of juveniles who had run away from a juvenile facility in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue. The officers located the juveniles and brought them back to the juvenile facility.
• Officers responded May 8 to a call reporting theft at a retail store in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers investigated and cited the suspect with misdemeanor theft. The female was trespassed from the property.
• An officer took a phone call May 9 in the 300 block of Birch Street regarding city ordinance questions pertaining to panhandling. The caller was notified there is no city ordinance against panhandling. Panhandling is generally protected by the First Amendment.
• Officers took a report May 9 of a male who wanted a female removed from a home in the 6900 block of Lake Drive. The officers provided the male with resources.
• An officer responded May 10 to a report of an individual who was running out in traffic at the intersection of Hodgson Road and Birch Street. The officer spoke with the male and advised him to stay out of traffic.
• Officers were dispatched May 10 to a noise complaint of loud music at a party in the 6400 block of Stella Lane. Officers contacted the homeowner by phone and advised them to keep the noise down.
• An officer received a noise complaint May 10 of a chainsaw running late in the evening in the 6800 block of Sunset Avenue. The officer spoke with an adult male, who advised he would stop use of the chainsaw for the night.
• An officer located an occupied suspicious vehicle May 10 in the parking lot of a closed business in the 7700 block of 20th Avenue. The officer spoke with two occupants and advised them to leave.
• Officers responded May 11 to a noise complaint
Lino Lakes Fire Department (see full story in this week’s issue.) The wage for L’Allier will be $70.38 per hour, which is step 8 in a 10-step wage scale for the position.
• Kayla McKinney will join the Police Department as a police officer following council approval. McKinney has been working as a part-time community service officer for the department since February 2024. McKinney will earn an associate degree in criminal justice and law enforcement transfer pathway through Century College and complete her POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training Board)-mandated law enforcement curriculum this summer. Her starting wage will be $42.22 an hour, step 1 in a sevenstep wage pay scale.
• The city of Lino Lakes will enter into a joint powers agreement (JPA) with Anoka County for the I-35E/County Road J interchange improvement project. The overall project cost is estimated at approximately $23.7 million. The city’s share of the proposed improvements is around $318,509. Landscaping improvements to the Centerville Road/ County Road J roundabout are in addition to these costs. According to the city staff report, that portion of the project will likely be bid in 2026. The city’s share primarily will be paid for using from municipal state aid street funds with a small portion of funding from the area and unit trunk utility funds. Under the terms of the agreement, the city is
of a group playing loud music and yelling late at night in the 7900 block of Joseph Court. Officers spoke with members of the group, who were having a bonfire, and they agreed to quiet down.
• An officer located an intoxicated male May 11 walking in the roadway at the intersection of Lake Drive and Hodgson Road. The officer gave the male a courtesy ride to an area hotel.
• Officers received multiple calls May 11 of an unknown person(s) pounding on doors and windows in the 400 block of Aqua Circle. Officers checked the area but were unable to locate any suspects.
• An officer responded May 11 to a report of a dog at large in the 800 block of Orange Street. The dog was located, and its owners were contacted and advised that further violations would result in a citation.
• Officers received a report May 11 of a burglary at a residence in the 7100 block of Sunset Avenue where an ATV was stolen from the property. The case is under investigation,
• Officers responded May 12 to a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles at the intersection of Birch Street and Hokah Drive. There were no injuries documented. One vehicle was towed from the scene and the other was driven from the scene.
• A Lino Lakes officer assisted the Centennial Lakes Police Department May 12 by utilizing a drone to assist in the search for a missing juvenile in the 500 block of Village Parkway. The officer checked a wooded area where the juvenile was believed to have been at one point, but did not locate the missing child.
LIABILITY DISCLAIMER INDEMNIFICATION:
responsible for maintenance of the stormwater pond in the northeast quadrant of the Centerville Road/ County Road J intersection, the cost of which is split between the city and Ramsey County based on contributing area. Lino Lakes will also be responsible for the trail on the west side of Centerville Road along with the crosswalk pavement markings on city streets, if applicable. The city will be responsible for maintenance of Centerville Road/ County Road J roundabout 2 maintenance. The ramp roundabouts will be maintained by MnDOT. Staff will meet with Anoka County to discuss responsibilities and electricity costs for street lighting.
• The council has approved the distribution of the Lino Lakes Main Street Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR). An AUAR, an environmental assessment worksheet, is a planning tool to help understand how different development scenarios will affect the environment before the development occurs. The process is designed to look at the cumulative impacts of anticipated development scenarios within a given geographic area.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 27, at City Hall, followed by a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Madeline Dolby
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LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
CLASSIFIEDS
Chisago County is hiring!
Corrections Officer
Provides care and supervision of inmates housed in the jail facility, transports inmates, juveniles, and mentally ill; performs all intake procedures for incoming prisoners; supervises the daily housing area and periodically must subdue prisoners. Must be willing and able to work a variety of assigned shifts. Must be able to perform CPR and emergency first aid. $26.83 to $35.34 DOQ. Apply online at www. chisagocountymn.gov.
Open until filled.
Sales Representative
Base + Commission
GreenGuard Construction | Full-Time or Part-Time | Multiple Locations Are you motivated, personable, and ready to earn what you’re worth?
GreenGuard Construction is hiring Sales Representatives to help homeowners with roofing and siding solutions—no experience required.
What We Offer:
• Base pay + commission for every closed job
• Paid one-on-one training—no experience needed
• Flexible full-time or part-time schedules
• A supportive, locally owned team (not a corporate maze)
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities
What You’ll Need:
• Reliable transportation + valid driver’s license
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Drive to learn and close sales
We keep it simple: clear communication, consistent support, and top-quality service. You’ll be seen, heard, and rewarded for your efforts. Apply now at greenguardconstruction.com/ careers Or find us on Indeed and ZipRecruiter
Summer vacation and need something to do? Want to make some money?
Ruddy’s Rental is looking for HELP!
We are looking for a Yard/Lot Person.
Duties
Load and unload tables, chairs, trailers and rental equipment. Some cleaning involved. Also a Counter Person. Duties
Answer phone, write up contracts for customers, and some cleaning. Looking for a great attitude and a willingness to grow and learn.
Flexible hours. Part time 10-30 hours per week. Immediate openings. Apply in person at 21380 Forest Blvd Forest Lake. Across from Forest Lake High School. No evenings and closed Sundays.
Chisago County is hiring!
Engineering Technician
Senior
Reviewing construction plans, conducting engineering inspections and investigations, and reviewing the work of contractors for conformance to approved specifications. Independently monitors and inspects the progress and construction methods to ensure construction projects meet approved specifications.
$38.07 to $50.13 DOQ. Apply online at www.chisagocountymn.gov.
Open until filled.
Cougars baseball has another 3-1 week
The Centennial baseball team won three of four games for the second week in a row, getting back to .500 and 9-9 overall and 5-7 in conference.
The Cougars won at Anoka 4-2 in eight innings Monday. Jaden Anderson threw seven strong innings while going 3-for-4 at the plate. Tommy Meyer threw a scoreless inning for the save. Calvin Coppersmith notched three hits and Tripp Stensrud and Logan Mielke each had two.
Eden Prairie (4-11) clipped Centennial 9-3 on Tuesday in Eden Prairie. Meyer led a 7-0 shutout win over Minneapolis Southwest (7-6) at home Wednesday, throwing five innings (one hit, five strikeouts). Jake Williamson finished. Coppersmith was 2-for-2 (two runs, RBI, four steals) and Jake Hosfield 2-for-3 (two RBI’s).
On Saturday, while hosting Youth Day, the Cougars beat White Bear Lake 8-7. Anderson hit a two-run homer. Hosfield had a single, bases-loaded walk, and two RBI’s. Nolan Border was 2-for-2 with two walks and two runs. Ben Clauson and Matthew Siegler had RBI hits. Anderson pitched four innings (six runs, three earned), Hosfield two (one run) and Siegler one (no runs).
Bruce Strand
‘DESIGNATED RUNNER’
Alaina Franco is a new specialist on the Cougar softball team this year: designated runner. A senior who’s been a standout wrestler for several seasons, she came out for softball for the first time. Coach Rick Thomas liked her speed on the basepaths during tryouts. “She accepted a spot on the team as a runner,” Thomas said. Once a game, Franco is a courtesy runner for pitcher Riley O’Connell. She has stolen 19 bases in 20 attempts and scored 12 runs while notching three hits in nine at-bats. “She is a great teammate, and very coachable,” Thomas said.
SOFTBALL
Centennial, the Northwest Suburban Conference (NWSC) champion, lost a close game to No. 1 ranked Forest Lake while going 1-2 in non-conference games last week. The Cougars beat St. Anthony Village 10-2 with just four hits, helped by 12 walks. Peyton Corbin had a two-run double. Mandy Gooder delivered a base-loaded single on which all three runners scored. She bunted home another run. Kendal Saffert pitched (four hits, no walks, seven strikeouts). White Bear Lake (14-6) beat the Cougars 6-2. Saffert started and took the loss. Addison Border belted a solo homer and an RBI single. Forest Lake (18-1) edged the Cougars 2-1. O’Connell and the Rangers’ Avery Mueller each threw four-hitters. Three Cougar errors led to two unearned runs. The Cougars were 111, Champlin Park 10-2 and Blaine 9-3 in the NWSC. The section opener is Tuesday against Park Center.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
Centennial has a 1-17 record with one conference game left. The Cougars lost a close five-game match to Mounds View at home Wednesday. Mounds View, the Suburban East champion, won 25-17, 25-18, 2225, 26-28, 15-9. Austin Brang and Ayden Phongsavath led the Cougar attack. Centennial’s lone win was against Park in an Osseo tournament. They will close the regular season against Rogers on Wednesday. Sectionals will start May 28.
BOYS LACROSSE
Centennial is 6-3 after defeating Maple Grove 12-8 and Roseville Area 9-8 last week. Against Maple Grove (3-7), Isaak Adams led with four goals and eight ground balls. Gavin Krage had three goals, Gavin Cunningham two (and two assists), and Solomon Marshall, David Moran and Macin Hehir one each. Moran notched six ground balls. Grant Jensen had four goals for the Crimson.
Cougar girls golf 5-1 in NWSC duals
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
It’s been a solid season Centennial girls golf, winning five of six Northwest Suburban Conference (NWSC) dual meets, losing only to Maple Grove. They placed third in invitationals at Elk River and White Bear Lake.
“We have had a very strong year and are working to finish just as strong,” coach Nicole Christensen said, adding that they’re working hard on ball contact, putting, and creative shotmaking to cut strokes.
Sophomore Taylor Thor has placed first in all but one conference meet while eighth-grader Taylor Nelsen and freshman Marley Lutz (a first-year golfer) have also had scores counted every meet.
Last week, Centennial beat Champlin Park 185 to 217 at Edinburgh. Thor shot 40, Nelsen 43, Gabby Steele 50 and Lutz 52. They were 18th of 23 teams in the Andover Invitational at Bunker Hills on Thursday. Thor’s 40-39-79 was good for eighth place among 162 golfers. Nelsen shot 89.
They had an invitational on Monday and will close the regular season Tuesday in the NWSC tournament at Bunker Hills.
GIRLS TRACK
Centennial placed third of nine teams in the Section 7AA true-team meet on May 6. Lauren Klein won the 800 run in 2;15.54. Gillian Turi won high jump with 4-10. Reginae Tandoh was second in the 200 with 25.79 and fourth in the 100 with 12.39. Kylie Nelson was second in the 1600 in 5:03.82 and third in the 3200 in 11:18.
BOYS GOLF
Cooper Daikawa was medalist in a Northwest Suburban meet Tuesday at Loggers Trail, shooting a five-underpar 68, winning by three strokes. He led the Cougars to their best conference finish of the season, third place with 304. Daikawa, a junior, was a surprise state runner-up last year after barely qualifying in the sectional. The 68 was by far his best outing this year. Joey Perzichilli shot 77, Brady Zins 78, Jack Shoemaker
81 and Caleb Lounsbrough 81. The Cougars placed eighth of 13 teams in a Mahtomedi tournament Monday at White Bear Yacht Club with Daikawa and Shoemaker leading with 78’s. They were 10th of 16 teams in an invitational Tuesday at Blackberry Ridge with 321, led by Daikawa with 76 and Perzichilli with 77.
TENNIS
Centennial beat Irondale 6-1 in the first round of Section 4AA, then lost to top-seeded Mounds View 7-0, finishing 5-12 in duals. They still have section singles and doubles Wednesday.
GIRLS LACROSSE
Centennial is 4-6 after losing last week to Hopkins 9-8, Maple Grove 15-3 and Hudson 16-9.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Gavin Cunningham
Centennial Lacrosse May 20, 2025
Gavin Cunningham, Centennial lacrosse attacker, leads the Cougars (6-3) in scoring with 18 goals in 32 attempts while making seven assists. Cunningham, 5-foot-10 and 170 pounds, had 22 goals and 24 assists as a sophomore. He’s also a two-year starter in hockey and had eight goals and 16 assists this winter.
4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254 info@4seasonsairwbl.com
Centennial’s Ryan Koslowski (20) and Aiden Schulze put up a block against Mounds View’s Aiden Kendic.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Jaden Anderson got a hero’s welcome at home on his home run against White Bear Lake.
MEMORIAL PICNIC: Joint service features rifle squad
“The Legionnaires, the Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion put on a joint memorial service,” Lino Lakes Auxiliary Member Michelle Lesch said. The service will include various poems, prayers and a moment of silence.
“We state the names of the people who have passed in the past year from each group,” Lesch said. “I believe the Legion tries to get everybody in the community, whether they’re a Legionnaire or not, if they are a veteran and they have passed.”
The ceremony will also include a performance by the rifle squad, and “Taps” will be performed. A prayer by the chaplain will close out the ceremony with a dismissal by Nordstrom.
After the ceremony, there will be a community picnic. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served along with various types of salads and dessert. According to Lesch, the community picnic was added to the ceremony around seven years ago.
Lesch said around 75 people typically attend the service but the more people that come, the better.
“We do this rain or shine,” Lesch added. “We usually do it in our patio area.”
The Lino Lakes American Legion is located at 7731 Lake Drive. For more information about the service, visit linolakeslegion.com.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
IF YOU GO:
When: 5-8 p.m. Monday, May 26
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: Memorial Day ceremony and community picnic to honor service members who have passed. Memorial Day service starts at 5 p.m.
Contact: www.facebook.com/Post566
9-year-old resident collects stuffed animals for food shelf
Nine-year-old Eva Kurkowski from Lino Lakes conducted a stuffed animal toy drive for the Centennial Community Food Shelf earlier this month with the help of her grandfather, Jeff Kurkowski. They went door-to-door to 75 houses in the White Pine Road neighborhood to collect as many stuffed animals as possible. The two were able to collect 160 stuffed animals.
Meaning of Memorial Day
One of history’s most solemn days, Memorial Day is an American holiday that honors the men and women who died while serving in the United States military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971.
In May 1868, Gen. John A. Logan, the commander-in-chief of the Union veterans’ group known as the Grand Army of the Republic, issued a decree that May 30 should become a nationwide day of commemoration for the more than 620,000 soldiers killed in the Civil War, which had recently ended. On Decoration Day, as Logan dubbed it, Americans should lay flowers and decorate the graves of the war dead “whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” According to legend, Logan chose May 30 because it was a rare day that didn’t fall on the anniversary of a Civil War battle, though some historians believe the date was selected to ensure that flowers across the country would be in full bloom.
Today, Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday of May. The American flag should be hung at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, then raised to the top of the staff. And since 2000, when the U.S. Congress passed legislation, all Americans are encouraged to pause for a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time.
HUGO
Cemetery Tour
When: Monday, May 26
Where: Hugo American Legion Post 620, 5383 140th St. N.
Details: For the 79th consecutive year, American Legion Post 620 will visit the following cemeteries to conduct Memorial Day Services. Join the tour at any point in time. Meet at the
Memorial Day Events
Hugo American Legion at 6:45 a.m.
Walker Cemetery will be at 7:30 a.m.; return to Legion Clubroom for coffee at 8:30 a.m.; Gethsemane Methodist Cemetery at 9 a.m.; Incarnation
Lutheran Cemetery at 9:25 a.m.; St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery at 10 a.m.; Twitchell Cemetery at 10:30 a.m.; Lino Lakes Legion at 10:45 a.m.; St. Genevieve’s Catholic Cemetery at 11:25 a.m. The last cemetery on the tour will be St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery at 11:55 a.m.
Contact: 651-255-1432
50th annual Memorial Day Car Show
When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, May 26
Where: Blacksmith Lounge, 17205 Forest Blvd. N
Details: Annual Memorial Day Car Show presented by the North Star Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club. There will be a flag raising ceremony at noon. Dash plaques will be given to the first 250 cars, and 50 awards will be given out in addition to the Best in Show. Registration is required for cars; spectators are free. Contact: www.northstarstudebakers. com or 612-839-2490
WHITE BEAR LAKE
Memorial Day Parade
When: Form at 9 a.m.; parade at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 26
Where: Meet at White Bear Lake City Hall.
Details: The parade will continue to Union Cemetery for the Memorial Day ceremony.
Contact: 651-429-5770
Community picnic
When: May 26, following ceremony at Union Cemetery
Where: American Legion Post 168, 2210 3rd St.
Details: The community is invited to the Legion for camaraderie, singing of service songs and a free hot dog lunch.
Contact: 651-429-5770
Comrades Lost at Sea ceremony
When: 2 p.m. Monday, May 26
Where: On the lake at VFW Post 1782,
4496 Lake Ave S., White Bear Lake
Details: Ceremony to honor veterans who lost their lives at sea Contact: 651-426-4944
COLUMBUS
Memorial Day Weekend Race Night
When: Noon Sunday, May 25; first race at 6 p.m.
Where: Running Aces Casino, Hotel & Racetrack, 15201 Running Aces Blvd., Columbus
Details: Join for a night of live racing, remembering and honoring those who have served. Special visit from Herps Alive, an interactive and educational experience where you can get up close with snakes, lizards and more.
Contact: 651-925-4600
MARINE ON ST CROIX
Crappie Fest
When: 8 to 11 a.m. fish; 11 a.m. to noon lunch and prizes; noon to 4 p.m. music. Sunday, May 25.
Where: Veterans Campground, 11300 180th St. N
Details: Join the Freedom Fishing Foundation, the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network and the Veterans Campground on Big Marine Lake for
a day of camaraderie and fish tales. Fishing spots are full, but families are still invited to attend and spend time together and enjoy music by The Fish Head Band, based out of Duluth. For more information, visit Freedomfishingfoundation.com.
Contact: Dorothy Radermacher, 651-295-9093 or treasurer@ freedomfishingfoundation.com
COON RAPIDS & ANDOVER
Anoka County Veterans Council Memorial Day services
When and Where: 10 a.m. Monday, May 26, Field of Honor, Morningside Memorial Gardens, 11800 University Ave NW, Coon Rapids; 11:30 a.m. Monday, May 26.
Details: Join the Posts and Auxiliaries of the Anoka County Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legions, the Military order of the Cooties, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart, 40/8, Vietnam vets, Disabled American Vets, Desert Storm Veterans, Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan Veterans in the Memorial Day Services. A family picnic will be held at the Bunker Hills Activities Center following the ceremony.
CONTRIBUTED
There will be a joint memorial service honoring veterans who have been members of the American Legion and the community, who have passed within the last year.
CONTRIBUTED
Eva Kurkowski grabs a photo with the 160 stuffed animals she collected with her grandfather, Jeff Kurkowski.