FREE
Press Publications 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Sign up for the newsletter
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 9 CIRCLE PINES, MN
TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2026
PRESSPUBS.COM/SIGNUP
VOL. 44 NO. 11 www.quadcommunitypress.com $1.00
MEMORIAL: Held for former Lino Lakes Firefighter PAGE 12
Local skaters look ahead to international competitions The synchronized skating season is underway, and the Northernettes Synchronized Skating team is preparing to head overseas. The team will be in Gdnask, Poland, competing for the Hevelius Cup from Jan. 15 through Jan. 17. Team members will go to Turku, Finland, on Feb. 7 and 8 to compete for the Marie Lundmark Trophy. Press Publications recently sat down with Blaine skaters Katalina Pugh, Olivia Rowe, Ruby Werdel, Landry Fast and Lily Engelke to learn more about them and what they’re looking forward to most for the remainder of the season.
from my friend, who was also trying out in 2021 and convinced me to.
Katalina Pugh Q. How long have you been skating? A. I have been skating for 9-10 years. Q. When did you join the Katalina Pugh Northernettes and how did you hear about the team? A. I joined the Northernettes in 2021, and I first heard about the team
Q. What is your favorite memory from being on the team so far? A. My favorite memory so far has been getting our National Team status and receiving our international assignments. I also liked getting a new short-program personal best and combined-score personal best. SEE NORTHERNETTES Q&A, PAGE 2
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
The Northernettes will go to two international competitions this season, one in Gdnask, Poland, in January and a second in Turku, Finland, this February.
Downtown Centerville Master Plan undergoes updates BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
FILE
Centerville hosts annual skate, sled night Centerville and surrounding residents should get their skates sharpened and get their sleds ready because Centerville Parks and Recreation will host the city’s annual skate and sled night from 6:30-9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park. The event will feature a bonfire, popcorn and hot cocoa. Those who attend will also be able to try out kicksleds and snowshoes provided by the Wargo Nature Center.
WHY WH Y CHOOSE CHOOSE US?
c o lli si o n an d au t o motive
651-483-4055 CIRCULATION 651-407-1234 circ@presspubs.com
SEE MASTER PLAN, PAGE 5
NEWS 651-407-1226 quadnews@presspubs.com
Family owned and operated since 1975 Certified Expert Technicians Lifetime Warranty Collision & Mechanical Services Hail Damage Specialists
www.fairwaycollisioncenter.com
125 E. Cty Rd. F • Vadnais Heights, 55127 ADVERTISING 651-407-1200 marketing@presspubs.com
CLASSIFIED 651-407-1250 classified@presspubs.com
2022
2022
of the Press
of the Press
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
Shoreview Press
818927 792568
Fa i rwaY
CENTERVILLE — The city of Centerville continues to discuss the city’s master plan for the downtown area. Since its adoption in 2006, the plan has been revised periodically by the City Council over the last 20 years but has never undergone any major changes. According to the master plan and development guide, the intent of the plan is to provide a comfortable, safe, mixed-use community with emphasis on pedestrian-oriented streetscapes, diverse housing options, adequate open space and quality architecture. The plan is broken up into three parts according to Nathan Fuerst, city planner from Bolton and Menk. It includes a redevelopment vision, recommendations for transportation and public system enhancements and private development standards. “The most significant part of this plan is the private development standards that are created by it,” Fuerst said. “The redevelopment plan is tightly interconnected with the zoning, particularly where (these) development standards have been created.” The plan calls for compatible integration of a variety of housing types, including townhomes, medium-density and high-density residential. It also encourages “active ground floor uses, such as restaurants, shops and services, to animate the street within the mixed-use corridor portion” of the downtown area.
PRODUCTION 651-407-1253 artmanager@presspubs.com
2 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
JANUARY 6, 2026
www.presspubs.com
NORTHERNETTES Q&A: Skaters excited to explore new countries, compete overseas FROM PAGE 1
Q. What has been your biggest challenge in the sport? A. I think that the biggest challenge in synchronized skating is my own personal struggles, either mental or physical. Q. How are you preparing for the competitions in Poland and Finland? A. We have worked really hard on editing our programs in ways that level up our performance. We have seen our mental trainer to clarify our goals for our competitions.
ever got to experience traveling overseas with my best friends. I love learning about the history of each place, along with seeing the city’s architecture. I especially love picking up little souvenirs to put in my room to remember the experience. Q. Tell us about your future plans. A. Once I graduate, I plan on attending a college and continuing to skate. I would love to attend a school while still being able to skate solo or with a team. Ruby Werdel Q. How long have you been skating? A. I am 16 now, and have been skating since I was about 3. I have been on the ice for around 13 years.
Q. What aspect(s) of the trip(s) are you most excited about? A. I am very excited to explore new countries and hopefully see some of the history. I am also excited to compete on European ice for the first time. Q. Tell us about your future plans. A. I am not 100% certain, but I am planning on staying on the team when I am a freshman in college and attend the University of Minnesota. I am thinking of becoming a radiologist, but if not, I want to do something in the medical field. Olivia Rowe Q. How long have you been skating? A. In total, I’ve been skating for about 11 years. I started with hockey when I was around 5 years old; about two years later, I started figure skating. I did both sports simultaneously for a year before fully switching to figure skating! Q. When did you join the Northernettes and how did you hear about the team? A. I first started my synchronized figure skating journey in 2019, when I joined the juvenile team. I heard about the Northernettes through the figure skating community and through some of my friends who were already involved with the organization. This is now my sixth season with the Northernettes, and my third on the junior team. Oliva Rowe
Q. What is your favorite memory from being on the team so far? A. My favorite memory is by far winning our first international gold medal in Gdansk, Poland. That was so special because it marked a huge milestone for the junior team and the Northernettes. Having the opportunity to accomplish something so special with my best friends is a memory I will definitely cherish forever. Q. What has been your biggest challenge in the sport? A. The biggest challenge of doing synchro is the evolution of the sport. Each year, programs and requirements get more complex, which can be challenging especially when still trying to build a competitive organization. However, those changes are what push myself, my teammates and my coaches to grow as people, skaters and as competitors.
Q. When did you join the Northernettes and how did you hear about the team? Ruby Werdel A. I joined synchro when I was in fifth grade and have loved it ever since. My sister had skated with the Northernettes for two seasons and really pushed for me to follow in her footsteps. I am forever grateful that she did, because of all of the incredible people and experiences that this organization has provided me with in the last five years. Q. What is your favorite memory from being on the team so far? A. In my career of being a Northernette, my favorite memory would have to be winning our international in Poland during the 2024-25 season. If I were to focus on this season individually, it would be hard to just pick one. Every practice and/or event seems to come with another fun memory or unbeatable moment. Q. What has been your biggest challenge in the sport? A. The biggest challenge in synchronized skating has been me versus myself. I’ve been working on creating a more positive mindset and pushing myself beyond my self-set limit. The environment and support at Northernettes have made it so that no challenge cannot be overcome. Q. How are you preparing for the competitions in Poland and Finland? A. In my experience, preparations for big competitions like the Hevelius Cup and Marie Lundmark Trophy are all about balance — resting on days my body needs it, as well as always giving it my all every opportunity I have on the ice. Many believe that off-ice is just as important as on-ice. I am not an exception to that belief; off-ice is absolutely necessary to give you the best possible chance of success on the day of competition. Q. What aspect(s) of the trip(s) are you most excited about? A. I am very excited to explore and spend time with my best friends, but furthermore I am very excited to compete overseas and put out fantastic skates that we all can be proud of, and possibly retaining our gold medal we were awarded last year.
Q. How are you preparing for the competitions in Poland and Finland? A. After our first two competitions in the fall, my team and I have really been pushing ourselves with our facial and body expression. Various types of expression are so important, especially when striving for new goals. Each day at practice, I work on staying focused on what my face and body are doing so that I match the musical tone and emotion of the music. Because of this practice, I am more confident going into competitions because it becomes normal and easier, allowing me to focus on other things like the technical elements. Q. What aspect(s) of the trip(s) are you most excited about? A. My entire life, I have always loved to travel and see the world. And only with synchro would I have
heard about the Northernettes from multiple skaters at my club and online. Q. What is your favorite memory from being on the team so far? A. My favorite memory so far has been earning the pewter medal at the 2025 U.S. Synchronized Skating National Championship. Q. What has been your biggest challenge in the sport? A. My biggest challenge that I have had to learn is managing pressure and nerves. Skating has many mental aspects that include trusting your training and teammates. Learning about handling mental pressure helps everyone be more confident and stronger skaters. Q. How are you preparing for the competitions in Poland and Finland? A. We have been preparing by refining small details in our programs and making our elements more consistent. Q. What aspect(s) of the trip(s) are you most excited about? A. I am most excited for sightseeing around the different countries and spending time with friends. Q. Tell us about your future plans. A. My future plans are to continue my schooling at a college and start coaching skating. Lily Engelke Q. What town are you from and what year in school/district do you attend? A. I live in Blaine and I’m a sophomore at Spring Lake Park High School. Q. How long have you been skating? A. I started skating when I was PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED about 6 and took a learn to skate class at the NSC Super Rink. Lily Engelke Q. When did you join the Northernettes and how did you hear about the team? A. I joined the Northernettes five years ago. There were a lot of my friends from the Blaine rink who decided to all try out together. Q. What is your favorite memory from being on the team so far? A. Getting to skate and train at the Olympic Training Center when our team went to Nationals last year in Colorado Springs was an incredible experience! Q. What has been your biggest challenge in the sport? A. With the huge commitment to synchro, I’ve really needed to learn prioritization and how to best manage my time between individual skate, school, friends, my job and synchro practices. I’m typically on the ice over 20 hours a week - so there isn’t a lot of free time. Q. How are you preparing for the competitions in Poland & Finland? A. Our team has been practicing two to three hours a day over the holiday break and working on and off ice to prepare.
Q. Tell us about your future plans. A. I hope to continue skating for as long as it fits MDAN run ONE TIME, my lifestyle,ads as wellto as focusing on furthering my the week beginning 1/4/2026 education in either Minnesota or another state along Q. What aspect(s) of the trip(s) are you most the East Coast, with hopes of studying cardiology or excited about? marine biology. A. I’m so excited to visit a new county and travel abroad! It just makes it more incredible when you Landry Fast realize you are representing your country as part of Q. How long have you been the National Team. skating? A. I started skating individually Q. Tell us about your future plans. when I was 2 years old, then A. I’m looking forward to continuing my skating discovered synchro when I was 11. career with the Northernettes while I finish high school. Long term I would love to attend the University Q. When did you join the of California- Berkeley and eventally be a pediatrician Northernettes and how did you or surgeon. hear about the team? MDAN ads to run ONE TIME,Dolby the we A. I joined the Northernettes Compiled by Madeline in 2021 when I was 11 years old. I Landry Fast
Met
Hale Mini Honeybells
We’ll get it SOLD!
The once a year citrus sensation!
ONLY
$3499
*
Reg. Price $44.99
Special Limited Time Offer!
Contact us Now
* Only $34.99 (reg. $44.99) plus $7.99 shipping and handling per pack to 48 contiguous states. Some restrictions may apply. Limit 5 boxes per customer. IC: H6YU41
848855
Call 1-844-968-0083 to order item 2692X or Visit HaleGroves.com/H6YU41 848857
651-335-9351
INCLUDING SHIPPING
848698
Ron Mikolai Home Team
27% SAVINGS
Experience you can trust
Hale Mini Honeybells
JANUARY 6, 2026
WHAT’S HAPPENING www.presspubs.com
ONGOING EVENTS
Details: Crochet, decorate envelopes, silk flowers and wig packaging. RSVP to whimsicalwigsmn@ gmail.com. Contact: whimsicalwigsmn@gmail.com
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Contact: 651- 783-0055
WHITE BEAR LAKE WINTER MARKET
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 Where: White Bear Lake Area High School Student Union (west entrance), 5040 Bald Eagle Ave. Details: Indoor farmers market with local vendors and makers. Food trucks on site until 2 p.m. Contact: forksinthedirt.com
4H FAMILY DANCE PARTY
When: 6:30-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9 Where: St. Joseph Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes Details: Fundraiser for Anoka County 4-H Camp Saile, carnival games, door prizes, and refreshment sales. Tickets sold at the door. Contact: www.mystjoes.me/news---events
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
THE ELVIS SHOW- JOE SIR & THE ROCKABILLY REBELS When: 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Top-rated tribute spanning every era of Elvis Presley’s career. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
NATURE PLAY: WINTER
CURRENT EVENTS WHIMSICAL WIGS CRAFTERS AND CROCHETERS NIGHT When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6 Where: Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Drive, Circle Pines
3
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
When: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 8 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Experience the wonders of nature with your child through outdoor exploration, play, and stories in this parent-child program. Register through the Anoka County Parks website. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD SATURDAY SEW-IN
When: 10a.m. - 4:30p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 Where: Ramsey County Shoreview Library, 4560 Victoria St. N Details: Lakeshore Quilters will be working on their own quilting projects. Stop in to see what projects are being worked on. Contact: lakeshorequiltersmn.org
COUNTY BRIEFS Bunker Beach Water Park season passes now available
New assistant director joins Anoka County
Anoka County residents are now able to purchase season passes to Bunker Beach Water Park at a reduced rate. Located in Bunker Hills Regional Park, the water park is Minnesota’s largest outdoor water park. It includes a wave pool, kids’ lagoon, splash pads, water slides and more. Purchase your season pass online at www. bunkerbeach.com.
Kevin McNallan will join the county as the assistant director of Anoka County Emergency Communications effective Monday, Jan. 12. McNallan has been with Anoka County for 26 years. During that time, he has filled various leadership roles in emergency communications and information technology. Before stepping into his role as assistant director, he was the county’s 911 systems manager.
Dispose of your real Christmas tree at Bunker Hills compost site
Centennial schools holds open house for facilities plan The Centennial School District will have a facilities planning presentation and workshop from 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the Centennial High School Learning Commons, 4757 North Road, Circle Pines. Attendees can learn more about facility plans for Centennial Schools and provide feedback. The district is shaping the future through a 10-year facilities and enrollment plan to ensure buildings, programs and capacity meet the needs of current and future students. The planning process will ensure district schools remain vibrant, safe and equipped for student success today and for years to come. Feedback will help the school board refine priorities and determine next steps as it considers how best to fund future improvements. Learn more at isd12.org/centennial-forward.
Church Directory Find the church that fits your needs
Celebrate Mass with us!
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
Join Us for Mass
Mass Times: Saturday at 5:00 pm Sunday at 8:30 am and 10:00 am
171 Elm Street • Lino Lakes, MN • 651-784-3015
TOGETHER PLACE CHURCH …
We welcome you to worship with us Virtually and in Person
Family Worship
Sunday 9:30 am Fellowship & refreshments following the service
“Because we’re in this together.”
Sunday 10:00 AM Call 763-784-1607 for Together Times
3860 Flowerfield Rd, Circle Pines togetherplacechurch.org facebook.com/togetherplacechurch
7330 Lake Drive | 651-784-7667 admin@linolakescommunitychurch.com & directions (1 mile south of Target on Lake Dr)
761677
The Centennial Library, located in Circle Pines, will host a workshop from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7. The workshop, Getting Starting with Libby for eBooks, will teach those in attendance how to use Libby, the library app for reading e-books and listening to audiobooks. Attendees should bring their smartphone or other devices for help downloading the app. Registration is not required. The Centennial Library is located at 100 Civic Heights Drive.
When: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Explore the landscape with a certified wildlife tracker and learn how to distinguish tracks of local wildlife. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
762801
Centennial Library hosts workshop on e-books
Winter Wildlife Tracking
Service times are subject to change. Contact your local church or check church web sites for service time and online service information.
To make changes or to advertise here, call at 651-407-1200.
835354
CALENDAR BRIEF
SCHOOL BRIEF
CONTRIBUTED
Anoka County residents are encouraged to dispose of their real Christmas tree at the Bunker Hills Compost Site, located at 13285 Hanson Blvd., Coon Rapids. Remove all decorations before dropping your tree off. The Bunker Hills Compost Site is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, call the compost site contractor at 763-862-0016 or visit https://www.anokacountymn.gov/4407/ Compost-Sites.
761757
The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has approved a contract with the Anoka County Community Action Program to fund a transportation coordinator role. The coordinator will provide hybrid services, both virtually and in person, to discuss transportation services with county clients, including access to car repairs, insurance and tabs. The position will also help community members participate in job training, job search and employment activities.
761679
Commissioners approve new role
OPINION
4 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
www.presspubs.com
JANUARY 6, 2025
Shop local challenge
I
n January, we know our small businesses, especially local retailers, will feel the post-holiday sales slump. The “shop local” campaigns prior to the holiday season, such as Black Friday and Small Business Saturday the weekend after Thanksgiving, mark the time that retailers and small businesses get their annual budgets into the “black,” meaning they are finally making a profit for the year. This also means that many businesses are operating at a loss all year until November. We can make a difference. The first few Publisher’s months of the calendar year are particularly difficult for local View small businesses, including Carter Johnson ours. Historically, we strive to manage the losses of the first few months with the hope that sales and income will pick up as summer approaches.
My point is to build awareness of shopping locally at other critical times of the year outside of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. At a recent management meeting here at Press Publications, we came up with an idea to challenge our employees to support shopping locally during the month of January. We have put out a box where any employee who shops locally can enter their receipt to win local gift cards in weekly drawings. The goal is to keep our local employee’s wages spent with our local businesses to support our local economy. Studies have shown that around $0.67 of every dollar spent locally continues to circulate in the local economy. This is in contrast to only about $0.43 of a dollar that stays local from a purchase at a chain store. I encourage you to think about this the next time you go online to order something from a company that does little to support our local economy, doesn’t provide protection from fraudulent products being sold, and sends vehicles up and down our streets to drop off products that cost less than the fuel it takes to deliver them. Invest in the community you live in by shopping locally all year long. If you need new tires to drive your car safely this winter, check out a locally-owned tire store. Go to local HVAC experts, plumbers and electricians for home repair neeeds, where you are also likely to get the best service. As you plan your trips to the grocery store, consider those who reach out to you with sales and specials by advertising in our paper. When you can, get your prescriptions filled at the local pharmacy. If you need to buy a gift or update your wardrobe for the new year, visit the locally-owned shops and check out their new products. When you schedule a lunch or dinner with friends, remember our local selection of great restaurants.
Give more grace As we enter the new year, all of us could work toward giving more grace. At the paper, we often talk about how readers who call with complaints and share frustrations with us are citizens who care about our community and the paper. Otherwise they wouldn’t bother to say anything. Our staff can choose to take it personally and become jaded, or give a little grace and use the feedback to work toward improvement. An example applicable to all of us is to give more grace to other drivers around you by moving over and letting someone merge in front of you when they have their turn signal on. Another is to show grace by forgiving someone who has wronged you or a loved one; or show grace by being respectful to those with whom you disagree. Ephesians 4:32 reminds us: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God fogave you.” Or take the advice of Muppets creator Jim Henson: “Please watch out for each other and love and forgive everybody. It’s a good life, enjoy it.” Happy New Year! Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
Distributed weekly in: Blaine • Circle Pines Lexington • Lino Lakes
www.presspubs.com 651-407-1200 DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements appear in Press Publications’ publications, including print and other digital formats. Press Publications does not endorse or evaluate the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content. Press Publications reserves the right to refuse, reject, or cancel any ad for any reason at any time without liability.
W
We can always do more
henever I am confronted with hot topics, I like to hit them head on. A lot of residents contacted me about their property tax increase this year, so my topics today are Anoka County property taxes and how the State of Minnesota fraud is affecting Anoka County.
In the last few years, I’ve worked with the seven cities in my district to improve roads, increase safety, expand broadband, improve parks and our trail systems as well as try to keep our property taxes down. Movers & I continue to be Shakers impressed with the level of work Jeff Reinert done by a lot of our directors and staff members in Anoka County, but I vote no on the overspending that drives up our tax levy. I also voted no on the 9.4% County levy increase for 2026. However, it still passed with a 4 to 3 vote. Your property tax bill is broken down between primarily three entities … your county, your city (my city tax increased 16%), and your school district (about half is voter approved). Each of these three entities have the authority to increase your property tax levy. For the last few years, our property taxes have been going up at
a ridiculous rate. Quite simply, it matters who you elect to office, because local elected officials have most of the control over how much property tax you pay. The Anoka County Assessor is responsible for home values. The value of my home in Lino Lakes has almost doubled in the last five years. When your home value increases, so does your property tax. Because of the increases from the county, city and school district, my property tax next year increased 34.6%. People cannot afford these increases, especially on top of the almost 22% inflation that we experienced over the last five years. Something must be done. In addition to investigating the accuracy of home values, I am going to pursue setting in place a policy that limits how high property taxes can increase in one year. There needs to be protection for taxpayers, or we will begin to see people taxed out of their homes. My efforts will be at the county and state level. Minnesota state fraud Anoka County does not oversee the contracts or funding that are the source of the recent reports on fraud, however we do play a role in fraud prevention. This includes: Fraud prevention: In 1993, Anoka County created a strong Fraud Prevention Investigation Program to stop fraud before it occurs in programs like SNAP, cash assistance, health care, and childcare. In 2024, this team
completed 685 investigations, resulting in overpayment savings of over $2.8m. This effort involves collaboration with the Sheriff’s Office, County Attorney, and Human Services. Staff training: We train all human services staff annually on fraud prevention and reporting responsibilities. Contract oversight: We maintain robust controls for county-managed contracts, including quality assurance visits and financial monitoring. Audits and reviews: The county participates in state and federal audits and invests in internal reviews to ensure accountability. By prioritizing integrity and accountability, Anoka County helps keep public programs strong, sustainable and trusted. Anoka County has been a good watch dog over human services programs and our tax dollars, but I believe we can always do more. Going forward I will be working with staff to identify State level fraud that has taken place in Anoka County to assist the State and Federal Government in stopping fraud in our State and hold those involved accountable. I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas, and I wish you all a happy and safe New Year. Jeff Reinert is Anoka County Commissioner for District 3 representing Centerville, Circle Pines, Columbus, Linwood, Lino Lakes, Lexington and East Blaine.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES • Limited to 350 words. at least four weeks must published. editing. • Submissions must Include lapse between publication. • Submissions containing • Deadline is 5 p.m. a full name, address and Exceptions may be made libelous or derogatory Wednesday of the week daytime phone number for for rebuttal letters. statements will not be prior to publication. verification. • Due to space limitations, published. • To submit a letter, e-mail it • Letter writers must live, letters that don’t address • Submissions containing to quadnews@presspubs. work or have another local issues are not facts not previously com, fax it to 651-429-1242 connection to Press guaranteed publication. published in the Press must or mail or deliver it to: Publications coverage area. • Repeat letters by the same be accompanied by factual Press Publications, 4779 • Letter writers are limited writer about the same verification. Bloom Ave., White Bear to six letters per year and subject matter will not be • All letters are subject to Lake, MN 55110. Carter C. Johnson - Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson - Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Patty Steele - General Manager marketing@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm - Managing Editor whitebearnews@presspubs.com
Madeline Dolby - Editor quadnews@presspubs.com Mary Peterson - Production Manager artmanager@presspubs.com Michael McNamara - Designer art@presspubs.com Paul Dols - Photo Journalist photos@presspubs.com
Circulation circ@presspubs.com Obituaries obits@presspubs.com Classifieds classified@presspubs.com Call a Specialist callaspecialist@presspubs.com
COPYRIGHT© 2025 BY PRESS PUBLICATIONS, INC. Material may not be reproduced in whole or part i n any form whatsoever. News ......................................................651-407-1227 Advertising ...........................................651-407-1200 Circulation ............................................ 651-407-1234 Classified/Obits ................................... 651-407-1250 Production ............................................ 651-407-1239 FAX ....................................................... 651-429-1242
Published Tuesdays by Press Publications, Inc. 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Mailed Subscription Rate: $52.00 per year. Subscribe online at presspubs.com
JANUARY 6, 2026 www.presspubs.com
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
5
MASTER PLAN: Council agrees to move forward with vision plan for downtown FROM PAGE 1
Fuerst outlined three possible approaches to the Centerville Planning and Zoning Commission if the city chooses to revise the plan: conducting a complete update, implementing a vision update or developing a comprehensive plan update for the downtown area. “All of these different things do come with different timelines,” he added. If the city decides to move forward with the first option, it will take the city two to three months to complete and cost anywhere between $10,000 to $20,000. Conducting a vision plan will also take around the same time frame, but will cost approximately $7,500 to $10,000. The last option would take anywhere from six to eight months and cost the city anywhere from $20,000 to $30,000. City Administrator Athanasia Lewis added that since the City Council is fairly new and considering the input from the LaLonde project, it’s going to take time. She also added that the city does not plan to begin to form the new comprehensive plan for the next year and a half. “It’s going to take time to do this visioning, and all of these options Nathan has laid out provides us a little bit of momentum, some kind of action that we could take if we don’t want to wait the year and a half to do that,” she said. “Another factor that makes redevelopment difficult in the downtown area is the parcels are very small. In order to get a significant amount of land for redevelopment, there is a lot of aggregation that a developer would have to do, which is challenging,” Fuerst added. “I
think a conscientious plan would consider some of the challenges for redevelopment and what could occur here.” Commissioner Bruce Thompson said he prefers option 2 because the city would be able to engage the public, keep the portions of the plan that work well and get rid of the downtown master plan. “I also think that you can get rid of the downtown master plan but keep a lot of the same concepts and call it something different,” he added. “If you want to get rid of the French architecture, that’s fine, but there are other components that I think are very important.” Thompson added that public outreach would involve a discussion about zoning and density, which was one of the main concerns raised in the meeting. “People see high density, or even medium density, like condos, as different from apartments. They don’t see 20 apartments the same as they see 20 residential townhomes that are owned. Same number of people, same density,” Thompson said. “But from my perspective, those are two totally different things.” Fuerst said if the city took the route of option 2, a town hall meeting could be scheduled, or a public survey could be created to collect resident feedback. Based on discussion, he added the plan update is the better option among the three. “It seems like we want to do something more quickly than a comp plan and we also want something at the end of the day that we can point to in the comp plan,” Fuerst said. “I think the plan update is the better option.” At the Centerville City Council
meeting in December, the council ultimately approved to move forward with option 2. The Downtown Vision Scope will help the city address longstanding questions about land use in the project area and will complement the efforts planned for the upcoming comprehensive plan.
CONTRIBUTED
This map shows the master plan for downtown Centerville. It was created in 2006 and has undergone minor changes over the last 20 years.
PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF LINO LAKES ANOKA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Metro
NAMES IN THE NEWS Anoka County employee wins 2 awards Anoka County Facilities Management and Construction Department Director Andrew Dykstra received two awards from the Minnesota City/County Management Association (MCCFMA). The first was a lifetime achievement award for outstanding contributions to facility management in Minnesota, to recognize Dykstra’s commitment to helping start the MCCFMA more than a decade ago. award Dykstra received was the TheThe once asecond year citrus sensation! Outstanding Contributor of the Year award for a mentorship program he helped start with the ONLY MCCFMA. 99* $44.99 The purpose of the yearlong mentorship program is to help engage members in developing their future and the future of local27%government facility SAVINGS managers in Minnesota.
Hale Mini Honeybells
$34 Reg. Price
Special Limited Time Offer!
* Only $34.99 (reg. $44.99) plus $7.99 shipping and handling per pack to 48 contiguous states. Some restrictions may apply. Limit 5 boxes per customer. IC: H6YU41
848859
INCLUDING SHIPPING
Call 1-844-968-0083 to order item 2692X or Visit HaleGroves.com/H6YU41
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.
WEEKLY WAG
Named in honor infectious, irresistible of Minnesota Lynx facial expressions. Phee Basketball star likes to be with her Naphessa Collier, Phee people the most and is a delightful, wellshe is a wonderful bed behaved and trustworthy partner. Phee arrived teammate. Phee is a twoat Ruff Start Rescue year-old pit bull terrier/ from a local impound. labrador retriever mix She has a winning and she weighs about personality, and she is 55 pounds. She is social anxiously awaiting a with other dogs and she loving forever family and is friendly to everyone home, and she is ready she meets. Phee is house to be your next MVP trained, leash trained (Most Valuable Pooch). and she knows her basic If you are interested in commands. Phee is learning more about Phee playful and she loves a or adopting her, please good game of fetch. In fill out an application at a nutshell, Phee isONE both TIME, www.ruffstartrescue.org. AN ads to run the week beginning 1/4/2026 athletic and incredibly Once your application sweet; always ready is received, Ruff Start to dole out kisses and Rescue will contact you as hugs. She is also a great soon as possible. snuggler and she has
It will cost the city approximately $18,700 and be paid for through the general fund.
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 2026 REHABILITATION PROJECT GENERAL NOTICE City of Lino Lakes (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of 2026 Rehabilitation Project. Bids for the construction of the Project will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Thursday, January 29, 2026, 10:00AM local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Lino Lakes will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 312.626.6799 and entering Meeting ID 956 066 2248 and Passcode 513367. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening. The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following approximate quantities: Mill and Overlay Improvements 34,000 S Y Mill Bituminous Surface (1.5”) 2,000 LF Remove and Replace Concrete Curb and Gutter 3,500 TON Bituminous Pavement (All Types) 70 EACH Adjust Frame & Ring Casting 5 EACH Gate Valve Bolt Replacement (8”-16”) 6 EACH Remove and Replace Gate Valve (8”-16”) 30 LF 8”-16” DIP Watermain Mill and Overlay Improvements (Bid Alternate) 5,500 SY Mill Bituminous Surface (1.5”) 1 EACH Remove Gate Valve 200 LF Remove and Replace Concrete Curb and Gutter 650 TON Bituminous Pavement (All Types) 10 EACH Adjust Frame & Ring Casting 1 EACH Gate Valve Bolt Replacement (8”) 10 LF 8” DIP Watermain The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Lino Lakes shall comply with the provisions of the statute. Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www. questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #10000848 on the website’s Project Search page. The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources. Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN. The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days. For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents. DATED: January 9, 2026 BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL Michael Grochala, Community Development Director, Lino Lakes, MN Published two times in the Quad Community Press on January 6 and 13, 2026.
Xcel Energy (Xcel Energy or the Company), filed an application with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to increase natural gas rates. 6 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS The request with the MPUC is to increasewww.presspubs.com gross retail natural gas rates by 8.2 percent or $63.40 million effective January 1, 2026, sixty-two (62) days after filing, without suspension, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 216B.16.
RESIDENTIAL SERVICEJANUARY 6, 2026 JANUARY 6, 2026
INTERRUPTIBLE RETAIL SERVICE
7
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
www.presspubs.com
Monthly Therm Use
Present Rates*
Interim Rates
10 $19 $21 The Company requested, pursuant to Minn. Stat § 216B.16, subd. 3, that a temporary (interim) rate increase of approximately 6.8 percent or $51.47 30 $40 $43 million overall billSTAT. increase, be effective on January UNDER MINN. §216B.16, SUBD. 1 1, 2026. The MPUC 50 $60 $65 elected to suspend the proposed rate increase under Minn. Stat. 216B.16, subd. 2, as discussed in the Company’s Notice and Petition for Interim 71 $82 $88 On October 31, 2025, Northern States Power Company, doing business as AVERAGE MONTHLY BILLS Rates (Petition), included the Application. The Commission Xcel Energy (Xcel Energy or the in Company), filed an application with the authorized an 100 $111 $119 interim rate increase of approximately 6.8increase percent or $51.47 million, overall Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to natural gas rates. RESIDENTIAL SERVICE The withthat the MPUC is to increase on gross retail natural gas rates by 8.2 revenue billrequest increase, will be effective January 1, 2026. The interim 200 $214 $227 Monthly Present Interim Proposed percent or for $63.40 million January 1, 2026, (62) days after request 2026 will effective be uniformly billed assixty-two a 16.19 percent increase on the Therm Use Rates* Rates Rates $336 300 $316 filing, without suspension, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 216B.16. base rate portion of customers’ bills, which includes the customer charge, 10 $19 $21 $23 The Company requested, pursuant to Minn. Stat § 216B.16, subd.where 3, that aapplicable distribution charge, and distribution demand charge temporary of approximately 6.8 percent or $51.47 $40 $43 $44 (exclusive(interim) of fuelrate andincrease purchased energy costs and certain rate riders). An 30 SMALL COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL SERVICE million overall bill increase, be effective on January 1, 2026. The MPUC interim rate will remain in effect until a final rate level is determined. 50 $60 $65 $66 elected to suspend the proposed rate increase under Minn. Stat. 216B.16, Monthly Present Interim subd. 2, as discussed in the Company’s Notice and Petition for Interim 71 $82Use $88 $89 Rates The typical residential gas customer uses 71 therms per month. On Therm Rates* Rates (Petition), included in the Application. The Commission authorized an average, the proposed $63.40 million rate change would increase the bill 100 $111 $119 $120 interim rate increase of approximately 6.8 percent or $51.47 million, overall 50 $67 $73 forincrease, a typical residential natural gas customer byinterim $7.11revenue per month or $85.32 bill that will be effective on January 1, 2026. The 200 $214 $227 $228 annually. Thewill interim increase, same monthly request for 2026 be uniformly billedfor as athat 16.19 percent increaseamount on the of 71 therms 100 $114 $123 300 $316 $336 $336 base rate portion of customers’ bills,month which includes the customer on average, will be $5.84 per or $70.08 per yearcharge, for 2026. 189 $199 $211 distribution charge, and distribution demand charge where applicable In addition, the Company toand implement certain tariff SMALL COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL SERVICE (exclusive of fuel and purchasedproposes energy costs certain rate riders).other An 200 $209 $222 interim rate in willits remain in effect untilVolume a final rate level is determined. revisions Gas Rate Book, 2D. Present Interim Proposed Monthly 250 $256 The typical residential gas customer uses 71 therms per month. On Therm Use Rates* Rates Rates $272 Over the past several years, the Company has proceeded through a cycle of average, the proposed $63.40 million rate change would increase the bill capital investments necessary for the safe and per reliable operation 350 $350 50 $67 $73 $80 $371 for a typical residential natural gas customer by $7.11 month or $85.32 of its gas system and has continued to incur costs to serve new and annually. The interim increase, for that same monthly amount of 71existing therms customers.100 $114 $123 $131 $520 500 $492 on average, willhas be also $5.84experienced per month or $70.08 per year for 2026. Xcel Energy significant annual increases in inflation, 189 $199 $211 $221 750 $728 $769 labor costs, and other expenses necessary to serve our customers. Recovering In addition, the Company proposes to implement certain other tariff 200 $209 $222 $232 these costs critical to Xcel Energy’s revisions in its is Gas Rate Book, Volume 2D. ability to continue to successfully 1,000 $964 $1,017 provide safe, reliable, and affordable natural gas service to its customers long250 $256 $272 $282 Over the past several years, the Company has proceeded through a cycle of 3,000 $2,851 $3,006 into the future. necessary for the safe and reliable operation of its gas capital investments 350 $350 $371 $383
Proposed Rates
Class
Monthly Therm Use
Present Rates*
Int R
$23
Small
6,745
$4,633
$4
$44
Medium
46,220
$27,353
$2
$66
Large
617,483
$350,615
$36
NOTICE TO COUNTIES AND MUNICIPALITIES
system and has continued to incur costs to serve new and existing customers. 500 Typically, final rates become effective within 10 months of the date of the Xcel Energy has also experienced significant annual increases in inflation, Application, the review period is extended by theRecovering MPUC. The Company750 labor costs, andunless other expenses necessary to serve our customers. anticipates that the review period will extended in this proceeding. Any these costs is critical to Xcel Energy’s ability to be continue to successfully 1,000 provide safe, reliable, affordable service to its customers longrefunded with over-collection of and interim ratesnatural duringgas the review period will be 3,000 into the future. interest to customers in a manner determined by the MPUC.
5,000 $492
$4,738 $520
$534 $4,994
$728
$769
$786
$964
$1,017
$1,039
$2,851
$3,006
$3,056
5,000 Typically, final rates become effective within 10 months of the date of the Xcel Energy is requesting this rate increase to meet its current cost of Application, unless the review period is extended by the MPUC. The Company providingthat natural gasperiod services, a this reasonable return anticipates the review will beincluding extended in proceeding. Any on equity. The following tablesrates contain of thewill interim and proposed rates over-collection of interim duringthe theeffect review period be refunded with interest to customers in a manner determined by the MPUC. increases on customer classes:
$4,738
$4,994
$5,073
Xcel Energy is requesting this rate increase to meet its current cost of providing natural gas services, including a reasonable return on equity. The following tables contain the effect of the interim and proposed rates increases on customer classes:
$89 $120
INTERRUPTIBLE TRANSPORTATION SERVICE
(Does not include the cost of natural gas) INTERRUPTIBLE RETAIL SERVICE
$228
Class
Monthly Therm Use $336
Present Class Rates*
Monthly Proposed Present Interim Rates Use RatesRates* Therm
Int R
Small
6,745
$4,633 Small
$4,898 6,745
$5,001$1,729
$1
Medium
46,220
$27,353
$28,555
$30,196
Large
617,483
$350,615
$364,315
$379,449
Proposed Rates
Medium Large
118,174
2,119,680
$19,722
$2
$88,455
$9
INTERRUPTIBLE TRANSPORTATION SERVICE * The present rate levels identified in this application represent t (Does not include the cost of natural gas)
$80
Monthly
Class
$131 Therm Use
Small
$2216,745
in Docket No. G002/GR-23-413.
Present Interim Proposed Rates* Rates Public hearings will be held Rates at various locations in X
$1,729 $1,998 $2,097 service area. Counties, municipalities, and custome
Medium $232 118,174
the hearings are scheduled.$26,990 $19,722 $22,724
Large
$88,455 $88,455 The proposed$99,345 rate schedules and a comparison of p
2,119,680 $282
arerepresent available at:authorized * The present rate levels identified in thisrates application the rates in Docket No.$383 G002/GR-23-413.
https://www.xcelenergy.com/company/rates_and_ $534 minnesota_natural_gas_rate_proposal (Make sure Public hearings will be held at various locations in Xcel Energy’s natural gas service area. Counties, municipalities, customers willcorner) be notified in theand top left-hand Theonce documents may be $786 the hearings are scheduled. business hours at either our General Offices located $1,039 or at the Minnesota Depa The proposed rate schedules andina downtown comparison ofMinneapolis present and proposed rates are available at: Division of Energy Resources, 85 7th Place East, Sui $3,056 Minnesota 55101. https://www.xcelenergy.com/company/rates_and_regulations/filings/ $5,073 minnesota_natural_gas_rate_proposal (Make sure “Minnesota” is selected Those who wish to intervene testify in this case s in the top left-hand corner) The documents may be examined duringornormal Minnesota Courtatof414 Administrative business hours at either our General Offices located Nicollet Mall Hearings, P.O. Bo in downtown Minneapolis or at the Minnesota55164-0620, Department ofTelephone: Commerce, (651) 361-7900, Minnesota Division of Energy Resources, 85 Public 7th Place East, Suite 280, St. dates Paul, and locations will be notice of hearing Minnesota 55101. newspapers in Xcel Energy’s service area.
Those who wish to intervene or testify in this case should contact the Questions on Box the 64620, rate increase Minnesota Court of Administrative Hearings, P.O. St. Paul, may be directed to A 337-2268. Comments may also be mailed to Amber Minnesota 55164-0620, Telephone: (651) 361-7900, TTY: (651) 361-7878. Public notice of hearing dates and locations will be published in local MN 55401. Mall, 401-7th Floor, Minneapolis, newspapers in Xcel Energy’s service area. Questions on the rate increase may be directed to Amber Hedlund at (612) 337-2268. Comments may also be mailed to Amber Hedlund at 414 Nicollet Mall, 401-7th Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55401.
848303
xcelenergy.com | © 2025 Xcel Energy Inc. | Xcel Energy is a registered trademark of Xcel Energy Inc. | 25-12-911 | Insert #00320913 | MSR: 20251110128
xcelenergy.com | © 2025 Xcel Energy Inc. | Xcel Energy is a registered trademark of Xcel Energy Inc. | 25-12-911 | Insert #00320913 | MSR: 20251110128
8 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
JANUARY 6, 2026
www.presspubs.com
STATE DEPARTMENT BRIEFS Enjoy a candlelight walk, snowshoe or ski at state parks Each winter, candlelight events inspire people to get outdoors and explore Minnesota state parks and trails at night. Depending on the event location and snow cover, visitors can hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski along a luminary-lit trail. “Candlelight events are visitor favorites every year, and celebrate the beauty of Minnesota in winter,” said Ann Pierce, Parks and Trails Division director with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Candlelight trail events are suitable for all ages. In some locations, visitors can rent snowshoes and crosscountry skis at the ranger station or visitor center. Call the state park in advance to confirm the availability of equipment. This winter, the DNR has 20
candlelight events planned at 17 locations between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28: • Afton State Park: Feb. 7 • Frontenac State Park: Jan. 31 • Gateway State Trail: Jan. 23 • Wild River State Park: Feb. 14 For full event details, visit mndnr. gov/candlelight. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Dispose of holiday greens, Christmas trees, correctly this season Holiday greenery and Christmas trees bring joy throughout the season, but they can also hide dangerous pests. Diseases and invasive species can make their way into landscapes on trees and boughs brought into Minnesota from other states. To protect the environment, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture
is asking residents to take these steps to properly dispose of greenery and trees after the holiday season: • The best option is to use a curbside tree collection or bring trees to a designated drop-off site. Check with your waste hauler, city or county to see what services are offered in your area. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has a map of yard waste compost locations; contact locations directly to see if they accept trees and greenery. • Don’t toss trees or greenery into your backyard woods or residential compost pile, which can spread the invasive species or disease. • Wreaths and other decorative greens can be disposed of in trash cans. • If your city or county does not have an organized pickup or drop-off, the last resort is to burn the greens. Always check fire danger conditions and burning restrictions before
burning and follow city ordinances. Pests of concern include elongate hemlock scale, a small insect established in the eastern United States where many Fraser firs are grown. Damage caused by its invasive insect can cause the needles of hemlocks, firs and spruces to yellow and prematurely drop off. Also, boxwood blight, a fungal disease, and round leaf bittersweet, an invasive noxious weed, can be found on wreaths and centerpieces and can endanger native trees. If you suspect your greenery or tree may be infested with an invasive insect or disease, contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Report a Pest line at 1-888-545-6684 or reportapest@state. mn.us. Minnesota Department of Agriculture
CLASSIFIEDS Press Publications suggests that you be aware of advertisers requesting payment for shipping merchandise. Confirm and verify all contact resources prior to sending any money. Take caution when responding to text messages that are not local numbers.
23
Free Items FREE WOOD DELIVERED White Bear Lake & Hugo area
651*/426*8660
102
Services Designs by Jeff: Custom airbrushing, vehicle wraps, fleet graphics, signs, logo designs. Over 35 years of experience. DesignsByJeff.com 763*/443*3135
104
Hauling/Moving Scrap metal,appliance p/u 651*/329*0815
150
Help Wanted TOWN DEPUTY CLERK - Town of Scott, Burnett County. Part-time, 16-24 hours/week, $26,000/year after training. Transition to Town Clerk position. Work with Board of Supervisors and Treasurer. Currently requires Town of Scott residency (requirement may change). Submit letter of application, resume, and three references with phone numbers to Town Chairperson by 9:00 AM, Jan. 12, 2026. Mail/drop off: 28390 County Road H, Spooner, WI 54801 or email: clerk@townofscott-burnett.wi.gov. Find this ad and others at www.applylocal.jobs
150
Help Wanted MAINTENANCE SPECIALIST - Northwood Technical College, Superior Campus. Full-time. Repairs, preventative maintenance, and facilities upkeep. Steady weekday hours with minimal weekend rotation. Support student success in a safe, efficient campus environment. Apply at www.northwoodtech.edu/employment. EOE. Find this ad and others at www.applylocal.jobs BOX TRUCK DRIVER - SOS Prescott, metal stamping company. Drive 26 ft truck (26,000 lbs) on predetermined route in Twin Cities Metro & Western WI. Interact with customers/vendors. Health card required upon hire. Fastgrowing company with competitive benefits. Apply in person: 1301 Kasson Dr, Prescott, WI 54021 or email anelson@sosprescott.com. Inquiries welcome: 715-262-3251. Find this ad and others at www.applylocal.jobs. Chisago County is seeking a highly skilled Senior Infrastructure Engineer to provide advanced cyber security related services for our interconnected E-911 and CJIS networks. $38.07 - $50.13/hr DOQ. Apply online at www.chisagocountymn.gov. Open until filled.
150
Help Wanted
150
Help Wanted
Chisago County is seeking a highly skilled Senior Infrastructure Engineer to provide advanced cyber security related services for our interconnected E-911 and CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Systems) networks. $38.07 to $50.13 DOQ. Apply online at
www.chisagocountymn.gov
Open until filled.
SALES REPRESENTATIVE Amery Free Press seeks a motivated sales representative to build local business relationships and create advertising campaigns. Base pay plus commission, benefits, PTO, 401K. Send resume to Tom Stangl, tstangl@ameryfreepress.com, P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI 54001. Find this ad and others at www.applylocal.jobs
FULL TIME NIGHT CUSTODIAN Night shift, 2:00-10:30PM, M-F, during school year. Daytime hours in summer. Salary Range: $15.36$21.50, additional $0.65 shift differential on night shifts. Year round, 12-month position. Apply now: www.applitrack.com/is d876/onlineapp
150
Help Wanted
150
Help Wanted
We are looking for a wellrounded Auto Technician with experience and tools to run and work a restored 2 bay 1953 Texaco station in Lexington. The hours are 8 to 5 Monday thru Friday. Stop by or call Tony 763-784-9899
George's Texaco is looking for an auto tech w/ experience & tools to run and work a restored 2 bay1953 Texaco station in Lexington. Hours are 8 to 5 Mon - Fri. Stop by or Call Tony 763*/784*9899
160
Hire Me Ann's AwesomeHousecleaning – 20+ Yrs Exp. Dependable. Trustworthy. Ref Avail. Cll/Txt 651*/776*7834
Pet Services Since 1989
Personal Touch Pet Grooming “When Quality and Service Matter”
763 784-4833 TDD 784-0662 Dial 711 for Relay Assistance Deb Molin Certified Master Groomer 200 Marian Ct., Circle Pines, MN 55014
362
362
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
DON'T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 866/*852*5506
CHOOSE EARTHLINK FIBER Internet for speeds up to 5 Gigs, no data caps, no throttling. Prices starting at $54.95. Plus, a $100 gift card when you make the switch. Call 844/*453*6983
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844*/220*9501 today! GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 in gift cards. Call today! 855/*562*4309 SAFE STEP NORTH America s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 833/*966*3882
358
Firewood 2 yr Dry Oak 8'x4'x16” $160 delivered 651*900*3094
369
Want to Buy WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 844/*978*0683 We Buy Vinyl Records Lps, 45s, Stereo Equip We make house calls by appointment. White Bear Lake Records 4775 Banning Ave,WBL wblrecords.com 651/224-4947
407
Estate Sales ESTATE SALE Sat., Jan. 10th 9am - 4pm 1962 William Lane Lino Lakes, MN 55038 EVERYTHING MUST GO – PRICED TO SELL Tools, Grill, Smoker, Patio Furniture, Lawn Care, Computer Fixing Gear/Cables, Security Camera (new), Kitchen Table, Sofas, Dressers
451
Rentals/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
4x4x8 Very dry red oak firewood. Pre-split 16” pieces. Ready for stove or fireplace. Craig 651*/214*0718 Must pick up
Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm | 651-407-1250 | classified@presspubs.com LIABILITY DISCLAIMER INDEMNIFICATION: 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.
JANUARY 6, 2026 www.presspubs.com
APPLIANCE REPAIR
Honest Work for Honest Pay
651-270-7360 Reasonable Rates -all jokes and laughs are free
Servicing All Major Appliance Brands Major Credit Cards Accepted
AUTO SERVICE
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
Meet Your Specialist
Since 1987, Comfort Plus Heating & Cooling has been installing custom designed heating and cooling systems in new and existing homes in the Northern Suburbs. We are pleased to be able to offer you top quality equipment and installations at reasonable prices. Comfort Plus carries a complete line of quality equipment and parts from Arcoaire, Rheem, Reznor, Aprilaire, Broan, Crown Boilers and service many others.
HEATING & COOLING
Furnace & A/C Installations and Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured
• Auto Repair • Oil Lube & Filter Service
20 years of experience serving White Bear Lake & Centerville - Friendly, Honest Service
651.226.4235
651-426-4233 | cphvac.net
Monday–Friday 8am–6pm 7137 20th Avenue North • Centerville www.facebook.com/vermauto
BATHROOMS
ROOFING
LANDSCAPING
REMODELING
Custom Decks/Footing Repair Screen Rooms/Additions Garages/Roofing/Siding Aluminum/Glass/Cable Railings All Repairs Call Us for
Room Additions • Kitchens Basements • Decks All Remodeling For more info visit KOlsonconstruct.com
DECKS
Bathrooms by
Lic. #20060261
CALL US FOR SPECIALS!
651-257-4706
www.youngcastlebathrooms.com
CABINETRY
Schneider Custom Woodworks
CUSTOM WOODWORKS
Commercial & Residential
Custom CABINETRY! • Cabinet resurfacing and refacing • Custom exterior work • Deck refacing
Free Estimates & Callbacks within 24 hours
651-213-6638
schneidercustomwoodwork.com
CARPENTRY
Small Job Specialist
45 years experience Basement Finish/Remodel Exterior & Interior Painting Doors/Windows/Siding Ceiling Textures/Roofs Kitchen Remodels/Counter Tops Decks/Landscaping Odd Jobs Bathrooms
651.653.9920 / 612.816.8544 CLEANING
651-746-4582
651-746-4582
LORENZ DRYWALL
• CHANGING CEILINGS OVER TO KNOCK DOWNS • TAPING • SPRAYING • ADDITIONS • BASEMENTS • NEW HOMES • GARAGES
No job too small! Kerry (Cell)
Wolf Bros. Drywall Co. Total Drywall Services New Const & Basement Finishes Residential/Commercial Family Owned & Operated 40 yrs • Since 1979 Insured
CALL LEE
(651) 428-0229 Forest Lake
ELECTRIC
ARROW ELECTRIC
HANDYMAN FREE Estimates! Specializing in • Handyman • Remodeling • Drywall Repair• Bathrooms • Kitchens
MNLic#BC003215
Scott or Linda • 651-426-9135 (office)
• Interior painting only
E
Pro
ng Colors Livi
Painting
Quality Home Building and Remodeling
Kitchen / Bathroom Basement / Deck
Free Estimates • Established 1987 35 E xper yrs ienc
Check out our Models for design ideas.
*1 yr financing option available* SHERCO CONSTRUCTION
651-888-4138
e
Pro
• Holiday Special • Professional, Residential House Painting • Interior & Exterior • Kind, Respectful Service Please Call Richard
612-394-8978
License # BC627690
**********************
• Kitchens • Remodels • Bathrooms • Basements
PLUMBING
• Drain Cleaning • Hot Water Heating • Hot Water Heaters & Disposal • Well Pump Service • New Construction • Remodeling
FALL PROMO • Fireplace Installation • Fireplace Tune Ups Mention this ad to receive promotion
651-653-0190
cartercustomconstruction.com MN Lic #BC632066
651-271-5000 License #BC002674
HEATING & COOLING
Furnace & A/C Installations and Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured 651.426.4233 cphvac.net
MN Lic#BC639211 763-742-7500
bettersol.com Ice Dams & Roof Tops
A+
**********************
bettersol.com 763-742-7500
SNOW REMOVAL
Snow Removal • Rooftop & Vent clearing • Driveway & Sidewalks • Small parking areas Lic/Ins • Free Estimates • Senior/Veteran discount
CameronTree & Snow Removal
(651) 775-8602 TREE SERVICE
GENE’S TREE SERVICE & STUMP GRINDING Licensed/Insured • Free Estimates
Call Today! 763-785-1629
Tom Thill 651-433-4866 Lic. #005402 FREE ESTIMATES
Licensed Bonded Insured
Ron Skibsted, R.S. Construction
MN Lic.# BC223025
Snow Removal
TIME TO REMODEL?
Stain & Varnish • Painting of Home Furnishings (furniture, cabinets, mirrors, light fixtures, frames, etc.)
Free te stima
651-407-1987
Full Service Contractor We also do sidewalks and BC639211 driveways over 40 years experience MN Lic.
L D MARSHALL PAINTING
SmallJobs Jobs Welcome Welcome Small
• Repair• Repair Circuits •Circuits Recepts Added • Remodels • Panels Replaced • Recepts Added • Ceiling Fans • Ceiling Fans • Master Electrician FloydEMERGENCY DeHate, Master Electrician SERVICE 651-346-8185 EMERGENCY SERVICE
612.670.7004
PAINTING
651-653-9021 651-271-4221
Residential - Hardie Plank
Roofing s Siding s Windows Gutters s Fascia & Soffit
ROOFING & APPLEWOOD SNOW REMOVAL “THE LEAKS STOP HERE” BUILDERS applewoodremodelers.com
Bonded Insured • Lic #BC638094
“Your Local Exterior Specialists”
Leaky Roof?
Lic. #BC-516217
We Build from Scratch
www.northlandlandscape.com
DRYWALL
651-383-5123
Household Waste Construction Debris Appliances Furniture
WINTER SPECIALS
northlandlandscape.com
Bonded Insured | Lic #BC638094
612-868-6837
**********************************
HUGE SAVINGS!
Be ready to enjoy your deck this spring! Let us build your deck now We build decks all winter long!
**********************************
• Design • Bath Repair • Remodeling • Tub Surrounds • Free Estimates
ite bear wh pl
ResidentIal CommercIal
umb
in g
. inc
(651) 426-6000 www.whitebear plumbing.com
BATHROOMS ~ KITCHENS BASEMENTS ~ TILES
Specializing in Emerald Ash Borer & Oak Wilt Diseased Tree Removal Tree Removal Brush Hauling Tree Trimming Stump Grinding Land Clearing Storm Damage
ALL REMODELING
763-753-7888
Twin Cities Premier Home Improvement Company
651-238-6751 NorconHomes.com Locally Owned Since 1994 Insured / Lic #BC105943
Lic #686889
S E R V I C E
Licensed & Insured
D I R E C T O R Y
9
10 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
COPS&COURTS www.presspubs.com
JANUARY 6, 2026
POLICE REPORTS The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • Officers responded Dec. 17 to a traffic stop in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington. • Police took a report Dec. 17 of a dog that was found in the 0 block of Circle Drive in Circle Pines. The owner was later located. • Police responded Dec. 17 to a motor vehicle property damage accident in the 9100 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington. • Police fielded a report of phone call fraud Dec. 19 in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington. • Police responded Dec. 21 to a report of domestic assault that occurred in the 9000 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington. • Officers were dispatched Dec. 21 to a disorderly conduct report in the 3800 block of Restwood Road in Lexington. • Police responded Dec. 24 to a request for a domestic escort in the 9000 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington. • Officers were dispatched Dec. 25 to a delayed report of a stolen vehicle in the 7100 block of Shad Avenue in Centerville.
• Officers were dispatched Dec. 26 to a theft report in the 2000 block of Gateway Circle in Centerville. • Officers were dispatched Dec. 26 to suspicious activity in the 9100 block of South Highway Drive in Lexington. • Officers responded Dec. 27 to a harassment report in the 0 block of North Road in Circle Pines. • Police conducted a traffic stop Dec. 27 near the intersection of Main Street and Mill Road in Centerville. The driver was arrested for thirddegree DWI. • Officers stopped after spotting a vehicle Dec. 28 in the ditch off of Lake Drive NE and Naples Street NE in Blaine. The driver was arrested for DWI. • Police responded Dec. 29 to a two vehicle property damage accident near the intersection of Main Street and 21st Avenue in Centerville. The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • An officer responded Dec. 22 to a report regarding concerns about living conditions at a care facility in the 600 block of Market Place Drive. The officer investigated
and determined the facility had addressed the matter and no crime was committed. • Officers responded Dec. 22 to a report of theft at a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers arrested a female and booked her into jail. • An officer responded Dec. 23 to a hit-and-run property damage accident that occurred in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway. The officer investigated, but the other involved vehicle remains unknown. • Officers were dispatched Dec. 23 to a harassment report in the 100 block of Woodridge Lane. Officers were requested to provide extra patrol for the complainant’s neighborhood. • An officer responded Dec. 24 to a complaint regarding a barking dog in the 7900 block of Nancy Drive. The officer spoke with the dog owner and advised them to keep their dog from barking. • While on patrol Dec. 25, an officer stopped a vehicle near the intersection of 121st Avenue NE and Lake Drive NE for an equipment violation and learned the driver had a sign-and-release warrant. The driver was cited, provided a new court date and released at the scene. • Officers responded Dec. 25 to a
report of a two-vehicle crash near the intersection of Main Street and Otter Lake Road. There were no injuries and both vehicles had minor damage but were driven from the scene. • While on patrol Dec. 26, an officer located a vehicle in the ditch in the 7500 block of Main Street. The officer spoke with the parties on scene and arrested the driver for third-degree DWI. The driver later provided a breath test and was booked into jail. • Officers responded Dec. 28 to a report of suspicious activity and a road rage incident in the 600 block of Apollo Drive. The subject vehicle was not located. • An officer responded Dec. 28 to a motor vehicle property damage accident with no injuries in the 6400 block of Stella Lane. The vehicles had minimal damage and were driven from the scene. • Officers received a phone call in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway Dec. 28 regarding a fraud. Officers documented the incident and advised the caller to shut down the account.
Try chicken grit as an eco-friendly alternative to salt ANGIE HONG SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
There are 68 lakes and streams in Minnesota impaired by too much salt (chloride) and at least 108 at high risk of becoming impaired in the near future. Salt is toxic to fish, aquatic bugs, mussels and amphibians and can mobilize other toxic elements in the water, including radon, mercury and lead. In addition, evidence suggests that lakes with chloride impairment may experience more frequent blue-green algae blooms. Worst of all, there is no way to remove salt from our lakes, rivers and streams once it is there. Researchers at the University of Minnesota estimate that 350,000 tons of salt are applied to roads, parking lots and sidewalks in the Twin Cities metro area each year. Of this total, 34% is applied by cities, 21% by counties, 24% by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and 21% by private property owners. To date, most salt-reduction efforts in Minnesota have focused on training plow drivers and contractors to use “Smart Salting” strategies to reduce their salt use while maintaining public safety. Thanks to certification training, local cities are saving tens of thousands of dollars per year and reducing their annual salt use by several hundred tons. When it comes to commercial properties, however, many property managers mistakenly assume they need a thick, visible layer of salt to keep parking lots and sidewalks safe. In reality, a light dusting of salt
is enough to melt ice during warmer temps (above 15°F). Anything remaining after the ice melts is purely wasted and contributes to water pollution. Furthermore, salt actually does not work when pavement temps are below 15°F, so it’s best to use alternative strategies when it’s very cold. One way that homeowners, businesses, homeowner associations and community organizations can help to reduce water pollution from winter salt is by using chicken grit as a no-salt alternative. Chicken grit is made from chipped granite or quartz and is usually fed to chickens and other poultry to aid in digestion. Although it does not melt ice, it provides traction to prevent slips and falls. It is also easier to sweep up and reuse than sand or kitty litter, making it an ideal material for use on sidewalks and driveways. This winter, the South Washington, RamseyWashington Metro, Rice Creek, Coon Creek and Vadnais Lakes Area watersheds will be giving away free bags of chicken grit to community residents in the north and east metro. Pickup locations include: • Woodbury Public Works (2300 Tower Dr.) and Cottage Grove Public Works (8635 W. Point Douglas Rd S.) – 24-hour outdoor pickup • Washington County Environmental Center (4039 Cottage Grove Dr.) – weekend pickup • St. Paul Park Streets Department (649 Fifth St.) – weekday pickup • Participating hardware stores – visit rwmwd.org/ get-gritty to find locations in Andover, Arden Hills,
Blaine, Circle Pines, Little Canada, Mahtomedi, White Bear Lake, Woodbury and St. Paul. In other locations, you can purchase chicken grit for about $10 a bag at your local hardware or farm supply store. Here are some additional ways to protect lakes and rivers from salt pollution. Help us track excessive salt use: Every winter, we field dozens of calls and emails from residents worried about salt pollution. We’ve now created an online form to report specific locations, so we can provide these businesses and organizations information about winter salting best practices: tinyurl.com/toomuchsalt2026. Request a salt watch test kit from Izaak Walton League to measure the salinity of a stream or wetland near your home: www.iwla.org/water/streammonitoring/salt-watch. If you hire a winter maintenance contractor, encourage them to get Smart Salt certified through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: www.pca.state. mn.us/business-with-us/smart-salting-training. The next certification training for property managers will be Dec. 10 (9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.) online. Angie Hong coordinates the East Metro Water Education Program, a local government partnership with 30 members in Chisago, Isanti and Washington counties (www.mnwcd.org/emwrep). Contact her at 651796-2210 or angie.hong@mnwcd.org.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS Middle school students encouraged to submit short essay Students in sixth, seventh and eighth grade can enter the National Civics Bee, put on by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Entrants have an opportunity to win a cash prize and a trip to Washington, D.C. Students can submit a short essay sharing their civic vision and how they’d make a difference. The aim of the competition is for students to gain knowledge about American democracy, practice engaging respectfully and constructively, and build trust in others and institutions.
Essays should be submitted by Tuesday, Feb. 3. For more information, or to submit an essay, visit tinyurl. com/45hsv8vp. Finalists will be notified Sunday, March 8.
Watersheds partner together to reduce water pollution The Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District, Rice Creek Watershed District, Coon Creek Watershed District and the Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization are partnering together to reduce the use of deicing salt this winter through the Get Gritty program. Residents can pick up a free bag of grit from various Frattallone’s
Hardware & Garden locations throughout the north metro. Participating locations in the Press Publications coverage area include: • 4796 Highway 61 N., White Bear Lake • 2694 County Road E East, White Bear Lake • 2920 Rice St., Little Canada • 9225 Lexington Ave. NE, Circle Pines • 10809 University Ave. NE, Blaine The Get Gritty program lasts through Jan. 16, 2026. For more information, visit rwmwd.org/getgritty.
Grants available for native plants The Rice Creek Watershed District has grant funding available for residents in 2026. Residents who are looking to plant native plants, construct a raingarden or install a rain barrel on their property are encouraged to submit an application. Funding will be available starting January 2026 and awarded on a rolling application basis until funds run out for the year. For more information, or to apply, visit ricecreek.org/grants/. If you are unsure what grant program best fits your project, contact Grants and Outreach Technician Molly Nelson at mnelson@ricecreek.org.
SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
JANUARY 6, 2026
www.presspubs.com
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
11
Michael Diggins succeeds father as Cougar football coach BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The reins of the Centennial football program have been passed on, from father to son. Michael Diggins, an assistant for seven years under Mike Diggins, is the new head coach, with Mike retiring after the 2025 season. Michael, 30, who was a star running back for his dad and for Wisconsin-River
Falls, has served as the Cougar defensive coordinator and strength coach in recent seasons. “I am excited and prepared to be head coach at Centennial,” he stated, calling the program “one of the most respected in the metro (area).” Matt St. Martin, activities director, cited Michael, who teaches physical education, for his seven years coaching
experience in the program, his commitment in the classroom, his chairmanship of the school’s health department and his direction of the school’s “thriving” weight-training program. Michael expects a smooth transition. “I played for a great head coach at UWRF in Matt Walker, and have been fortunate enough to work (at Centennial) with Coach Diggins Sr. Both coaches are perfect examples of how to handle the highs and lows of building a program.” Mike Diggins expressed that he and wife Kelli “are so proud of his accomplishments. We are excited to see him take over the program and keep the momentum. The program will take another step under Michael. I was honored to coach my son, and to coach alongside Michael. He has demonstrated his leadership and commitment to the program.” Michael appreciates how his dad and the whole staff at Centennial have “impacted the lives of so many young people” and he pledged to continue to
challenge and support student athletes. As a player, the 2013 graduate was selected to play in the state all-star game. He capped his UW-River Falls career with 1,298 yards rushing and 17 touchdowns as a senior in 2018 and received the WIAC football scholarathlete award. Mike Diggins served 15 years as head coach and 37 years in the program, highlighted by the 2023 state Class 6A championship. He had an 84-63 record with five district titles. The state championship that Michael helped the Cougars achieve was his second. He coached the Centennial VFW baseball team four years during college and had a state champion team his second year. Michael said he expects most of the staff to be back next year, and that they’ll meet soon to sort out responsibilities. “I’ll be heavily involved in the install, game-planning and supporting our players as they continue to build a standard at Centennial.”
Cougar basketball squads lose The Centennial girls basketball team lost twice in an Eastview holiday tournament, to Eastview 66-41 and Eagan 67-62, on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Cougars are 4-8. Also, during the holiday break, the Cougar boys (1-6) lost to Burnsville 78-59 there Wednesday.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Bruce Strand
Michael Diggins moves up from defensive coordinator to head coach.
Cougars topple No. 1 Holy Family for Edina gala title BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The third time was the charm for Centennial/Spring Lake Park (CLSP) as the Cougars got another shot at No. 1 ranked Holy Family Catholic (HFC) and beat the Fire 4-3 in the finals of Edina’s power-packed holiday tournament. HFC won 2-0 in Victoria and 3-2 at Centennial in previous meetings. This time the Cougars raced to a 3-0 lead and held on, handing HFC its first loss, at Braemar Arena on Wednesday evening. The No. 3 ranked Cougars are 14-2-1 after the big New Year’s Eve victory and a 6-2 semifinal win over No. 5 Edina. Holy Family (15-1) beat No. 10 Maple Grove 8-2 and No. 2 Minnetonka 2-0 to reach the finals. Scoring for the Cougars were Mia Sutch, Kathryn Genia, Katie Ball and Alaina Gnetz (power play). Making
assists were Avery Wagner (three), Genia and Sutch. HFC was 3-for-6 on power plays, with Maddy Kimbrel, Addy Cowan and Kimbrel again scoring, the last two early in the third period to pull within 4-3. The Cougars held their one-goal edge through the final 12 minutes. Cougar goalie Kaia Weiland saved 18 of 21 shots and the Fire’s Kayla Swathout stopped 28 of 32. HFC was 3-for-6 on power plays and CSLP 1-for2. The Cougars opened with an 8-1 win over Andover with goals by Gnetz (two), Ball, Lillian Renslow, Grace Laager, Melanie Reff, Brooke Leland and Sutch. Jozie Kelzenberg made four assists and Laager three. CSLP downed Edina with Gnetz drilling three goals and Wagner, Sutch and Kelzenberg one each. Sutch made two assists. Wieland made 20 saves. Cate McCoy added Lorelai Nelson scored for Edina (9-4-1).
Looking Ahead for SPORTS BOYS SWIM AND DIVE 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6—vs. Blaine
GIRLS BASKETBALL 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6—vs. Park Center 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9—at Elk River
BOYS BASKETBALL 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6—at Park Center 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9—vs. Elk River 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10—at Woodbury
GIRLS HOCKEY 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6—vs. Blaine 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10—vs. Farmington
GYMNASTICS 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7—vs. Osseo
ALPINE SKIING 4:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 8—at Wild Mountain
BOYS HOCKEY 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10—at Champlin Park
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Alaina Gnetz delivered two goals against Andover, three against Edina and one against Holy Family.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Katie Ball Centennial/Spring Lake Park Hockey January 6, 2026 Katie Ball, Centennial/Spring Lake Park senior defenseman, is a standout on both ends of the rink for the No. 3 ranked Cougars. She’s a key component on a defensive corps that’s allowed just 24 goals in 17 games, while delivering 21 points (15 assists, six goals), tied for fourth best on the team. She had one of the goals in their 4-3 win over previously unbeaten Holy Family in the Edina tourney finals. A prolific playmaker throughout her career, Ball got her first varsity points in eighth grade and has logged 22 goals and 79 assists for 101 points, by far the most for a defenseman in Cougar history.
4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254 info@4seasonsairwbl.com
12 QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
JANUARY 6, 2026
www.presspubs.com
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has approved a contract between the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs and the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office for the 2026 Violent Crime Enforcement Team Grant. The grant, which totals $577,928 in funding, will be used to combat drug abuse and related violent criminal activities.
Sheriff’s Department enters into joint powers agreement The Anoka County Sheriff’s Department will enter into a joint powers agreement with the State of Minnesota, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, to utilize applicable state and federal law to investigate and prosecute crimes committed against children and the exploitation of children that is committed or facilitated by the use of computers.
Circle Pines man charged with 3rd-degree DWI Twenty-one-year-old Brandon Wojciak, from Circle Pines, has been charged with one gross misdemeanor count of third-degree DWI-under the influence of alcohol and one count of third-degree DWI-alcohol concentration 0.08 or more within two hours. According to the criminal complaint, on Dec. 26 at approximately 3:25 a.m. a Lino Lakes police officer observed a vehicle in the ditch in the 7500 block of Main Street. The officer reportedly
encountered two men standing away from the vehicle and a third man, identified as Wojciak, inside the car. The complaint stated that the two men outside said neither of them had been driving. Wojiack reportedly claimed that a female had been behind the wheel and fled the scene on foot following the crash. The responding officer did not observe any footprints in the snow leading away from the vehicle, according to the complaint. One of the other men at the scene admitted to police that Wojciak was the actual driver. According to the complaint, Wojciak admitted to having the vehicle’s keys in his pocket and displayed signs of impairment. Wojciak allegedly refused to perform standardized field sobriety tests and refused to provide a preliminary breath sample at the scene. He was subsequently arrested and transported to the Lino Lakes Police Department. According to the complaint, a breath sample provided by Wojciak at 4:51 a.m. resulted in a 0.26 blood alcohol concentration, three times the legal limit in Minnesota.
Former Lino Lakes firefighter passes; departments hold vigil Tim Bertz, a former Lino Lakes firefighter, passed away on Monday, Dec. 22. In his honor, the Lino Lakes Fire Department, Harris Fire Department and the St. Paul Fire Department held a vigil and visitation on Friday, Dec. 26 at the Harris Fire Department. Bertz began his career at the Harris Fire Department and last year joined the Lino Lakes Fire Department as a duty crew member. Before his passing, Bertz had accepted a job as a full-time firefighter with the city of St. Paul. He also was a retired Navy SEAL.
FREE TRIP CHARGE With repair
$109 value!
Family, friends and members of the Lino Lakes Fire Department, Harris Fire Department and the St. Paul Fire Department held a vigil in Bertz’s honor on Friday, Dec. 26.
Minneapolis woman charged with $1,700 theft Britany Priscila Toaquiza Chavez, of Minneapolis, has been charged with theft after reportedly attempting to steal approximately $1,647 of clothes and toys from the Target located in Lino Lakes. According to the criminal complaint, officers with the Lino Lakes Police Department responded to the store located in the 700 block of Apollo Drive on a report of theft. The criminal complaint stated that loss prevention employees reported that three females has entered the store, filled their cart with a significant amount of merchandise and then attempted to walk out of the store where there is no checkout or self-checkout lanes. Officers located the females as they were walking in the area. One of the females, identified as Toaquiza Chavez, stated she was the person who stole the items, according to the complaint. An employee identified Toaquiza Chavez as the person who
24/7 Emergency Service Serving the St. Paul and Surrounding Area
Read our reviews and check out our current promotions at
When you need us, we are here to help.
Martenso n Real Estat e Grou p Expectatio
Exceeding
ns since
1996
Centennial Lakes Area Troy@ (612) 308-3 Realtors MartR 395 Egroup.com MartREgrou Connect p.com with us on
Press Public 4779 Bloom ations Avenu White Bear Lake, e MN 55110 GE SERV ICE REQU ESTED
CHAN
ALPINE
The brand
new Lino
and girls
both 2nd
Lakes fire stati
on at the
BY SARA
LIN
SKI: Boys
MARIE STAFF WRITEMOORE R
corner
of Cente
New fire
south
i
rville Road
and Birch
Street
station
began
providing
service
all on
TUESDAY,
FEBR
UARY 34 NO. 15 www.presspu 2, 2016 at confer bs.com $1.00 ence. PA GE 8 VOL.
PRESOR TED STANDA RD U.S. POSTAG E PAID PERMIT NO. 9 CIRCLE PINES, MN
License: BC692167 848534
www.krinkies.com
Best of the Press
attempted to push the cart out of the store. According to the complaint, officers reviewed surveillance footage and saw Chavez pulling the cart behind her as she walked out of the store after having made no attempt to pay for the merchandise.
Gregory Contracting
651-426-5220
2023
PHOTOS BY NORTH METRO FIRE BUFF | CONTRIBUTED
Your Local Remodeling, Custom Home & Storm Damage Experts.
Valid during regular business hours • Expires 1/31/25 *Servicing all brands Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Tim Bertz served on the Lino Lakes Fire Department for one year.
MARVIN
®
651-213-0668 • gregorycontracting.com
“Your Best Source for Community Information”
www.presspubs.com 651-407-1200
its
Submitting Public Notices Including Foreclosures, Certificates of Assumed Name, Liens, Probates and all other Public Notice Requirements
Deadlines: White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press by 5:00 p.m. Thursday prior to publication date. Quad Community Press, Shoreview Press and The Citizen by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday prior to publication date. Early deadlines apply on most holidays Counties of Ramsey and Anoka Contact: Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn E-Mail: Legals@presspubs.com Call: 651-407-1200 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110, www.presspubs.com, 651-407-1200 • Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
846673 794607
Board of Commissioners approves grant for enforcement teams