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CITY OF LEXINGTON: Recognizes outgoing council member PAGE 2
YEAR IN REVIEW 2025 Before we say goodbye to 2025 and welcome in 2026, it is a tradition for the Quad Community Press to look back at some of the most memorable moments this past year. In 2025, pages were filled with a variety of news, government meetings, events, sports, businesses, the arts and much more. Some of the most memorable stories are the ones that featured local residents—Centennial Cougar athletes found success in their respective sports; the Circle Pines 75th anniversary celebration, Fete des Lacs and Blue Heron Days in Lino Lakes brought the community together for multiple weekends of summer fun; and many in the community had a very busy year. See pages 5-8 for a full recap of this year.
May 2025
June 2025
January 2025
October 2025
Centerville sees an 8% increase to 2026 budget CLPD budget • $22,000 Planning & Zoning additional planner services from Bolton & Menk • $15,750 Election staffing • $17,546 miscellaneous expense changes such as the fire contract, public works and parks maintenance Revenue for 2026 must also total $166,297 to balance the budget. However, some of the earlier funding sources are no longer available, such as: • $65,000 in transfers from other funds from a one-time surplus used to help balance last year’s budget. This money is no longer available, and the city will have to cover that gap with a property tax increase • $7,200 in property rental; now the ambulance service is no longer using City Hall • $60,000 in building permits were not taken out • $3,200 revenue loss from other unrealized miscellaneous permits The $122,400 loss of nontax revenues combined with the $166,297 in increased expenses result in a tax levy increase of $288,697 needed to balance the budget. Property taxes contribute 91.75% of the
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city’s revenues. Licenses/fees contribute 3.6% and others less than 2.5%. As was noted earlier, LGA and fiscal disparities programs contribute nothing. The city’s largest expenses are public safety at 49.1%, running the government at 21.3% and public works at 16.2%. The good news for the city is that debt service levies have decreased every year, starting at $328,798 in 2022 and falling to $228,810 for 2026. The last year for the city to pay down its debt will be 2028, and in 2029 there will be no debt service levy, DeJong said. Following the truth in taxation presentation and hearing, the final 2026 budget will be adopted and certified to Anoka County by Dec. 30. Property taxes are due May 15, 2026, to complete this year’s financial cycle. Starting next year’s financial cycle will be the compilation of homes sold from October 2024 through September 2025, after which the assessor will set home values in January 2026. The Board of Equalization meeting will take place in May 2026 for residents to learn why their home values went up or down.
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Centerville will receive no outside help to keep next year’s budget increases low, so council members stepped in to give taxpayers shouldering the burden a modest break. For the past several years, the city has received no Local Government Aid, and it won’t this year either, said Finance Director Bruce DeJong during the city’s truth in taxation presentation. In addition, the city will pay into the fiscal disparities program but won’t receive any of the shared funds this year. The fiscal disparities program is a property tax base sharing program for the seven-county metro area that calls for a portion of growth in commercial, industrial and public utility property value to go into a tax base sharing pool. Hugo will receive $1.1 million from this program for 2026, but Centerville will receive nothing. In fact, Centerville’s participation in the program will raise the amount of taxes paid by local residents by $275,691 for 2026. After being reminded that the city could
not increase the preliminary 2026 budget and levy as certified to Anoka County this past fall, but could lower the budget, council voted 4-1 (Mayor Nancy Golden opposed) to lower the 2026 budget and levy slightly. Council members Linda Broussard Vickers and David Kubat worked to move money around in other funds to reduce the levy by $45,000, or 1%. Because of this small break given to its residents, the median value home of $364,950 (valued at $362,600 in 2025) received a $21 reduction in its city tax increase. That home will now pay $130 more in 2026 instead of $151 more, as originally planned. In 2025 that home paid $1,406 and in 2026 will pay $1,536 in city property taxes. This modest reduction notwithstanding, the city budget for 2026 adopted by the Centerville City Council increased by 8% to some $3.5 million. The total debt levy is $228,810, and the total canceled levy $22,690.85. The major drivers of the 8% budget increase are the result of the following increases in expenditures for 2026 that total $166,297: • $109,459 Police contract per adopted
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PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS • Vice Mayor Robert Benson received a plaque etched with the key to the city of Lexington to commemorate his time as a council member. Benson’s resignation is effective Jan. 1, 2026. • The council will advertise a newly vacated council member position starting in January 2026. More information can be found on the city’s Facebook, newsletter and in the Quad Community Press. • Northway Tobacco and Boulevard Bar and Grill’s requests to renew their cannabinoids licenses have been approved by the council. • Mayor Mike Murphy and the council wished the residents of Lexington a happy and safe holiday season.
Lino Lakes Police Department kicks off new hours The Lino Lakes Police Department will now have new front window hours. They will be as follows: • 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays • 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays • Closed Saturday and Sunday The police department is located at 640 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes. For more information, visit linolakes.us/159/Public-Safety.
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The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, at City Hall. Hannah Testa
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Mayor Mike Murphy presents Vice Mayor Robert Benson with a plaque to commemorate Benson’s time as a council member.
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CHASE AND OVATION’S NEW YEAR’S EVE TRIBUTE TO PRINCE When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Prince tribute concert. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
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When: 9-10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes GROUP GAMES DAY Details: Step into a world where imagination knows When: 1-3 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30 no bounds as our storyteller takes you on nature Where: Wargo Nature 7701 Main St., Lino MDAN ads to Center, run ONE TIME, the week beginning 12/28/2025 adventures through stories, songs and crafts. Lakes Registration is encouraged to ensure there are Details: Games to get kids thinking, moving and enough craft supplies for all attending. taking a break from screens. Register online. Donate Your Vehicle Contact: anokacountyparks.com Contact: anokacountyparks.com
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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
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Time to set goals
eading up to the new year, I asked a number of friends and colleagues to share their New Year’s resolutions. One said she is going dry for the new year. Another said she watches the ball drop with her mom’s group. Goals regarding better health, losing weight and starting new hobbies are often mentioned. One friend plans to set a retirement date. While goal-setting should be ongoing throughout the year, New Year’s Day can be a symbolic time to start a goal or resolution. I have found that writing Publisher’s down my goals has been helpful. For many years I carried goals View written on a scrap piece of paper Carter Johnson in my wallet that I could periodically refer back to. I had both short and long-term goals written down. Some took many years to achieve, and I’m due for a new set of goals.
No slop
With the new year come new words, terms and slang. We are all trying to figure out what 6-7 means. If you don’t know about this, ask your children or grandchildren. The only reference I knew about was dialing *67 before making a call to hide the caller ID. That is not, however, the current use of the term, which is Dictionary. com’s word of the year for 2025. According to their definition, 6-7 (pronounced six seven, not sixty seven) is “a viral, ambiguous slang term that has waffled its way through Gen Alpha, social media and school hallways. While the term is largely nonsensical, some argue it means “so-so” or “maybe this, maybe that,” especially when paired with a hand gesture where both palms face up and move alternately up and down.” The phenomenon is believed to have originated on TikTok with the rap song “Doot Doot” by Skrilla, where 6-7 is repeated, and/or videos of professional basketball players such as Lamelo Ball, who is 6’7”. This is a good example that while we may not always relate to or understand the next generation, they continue to be creative. The Oxford University Press’ word of the year is “ragebait.” They define it as “online content deliberately designed to elicit anger or outrage by being frustrating, provocative or offensive, typically posted in order to increase traffic to or engagement with a particular webpage or social media account.” They go one to explain that the word has tripled in usage in the past 12 months, and attribute it to a news cycle dominated by social unrest, debates about the regulation of online content and concerns over digital well-being.” My personal favorite in Merriam-Webster’s 2025 Word of the Year: “slop.” They define it as “digital content of low quality that is produced usually in quantity by means of artificial intelligence (AI).” If you are this far into reading my column, I’m guessing you also may be tiring of all the rage bait and slop produced by AI, social media sites and even many media organizations. With the year coming to a close, thank you for the continued support of our readers who subscribe and our advertisers who choose to market through our papers. The outpouring of support is necessary and wonderful. Thank you for keeping it local. Know that one of our top goals is to continue to keep the slop out of your local newspaper! Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
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Keep your dog safe, avoid painful situations
T
akoda, a six-year-old Husky from Iowa, had just been surrendered to a rescue group by a high-volume breeder. He had likely spent his life in a kennel, with little real-world experience or human connection. Less than 24 hours after arriving in a new foster home, he was put outside on a tie-out and slipped his collar, beginning a 27-day run before he was finally trapped and returned to Movers & the Blue Earth County Humane Shakers Society. But the Ron Wenaas danger didn’t stop there. Let out into a fenced exercise area, Takoda escaped again by opening a gate whose chain had been left unconnected. Takoda’s story shows how skittish dogs can be true escape artists who need extra care and caution. Takoda is just one of the 1.2 million dogs who go missing in the U.S. every year. Studies by Lost Dogs of America, the Lost Pet Research Project and other national organizations show that as many as one in six dogs will go missing at least once within five years. This creates painful situations for families, shelters, rescues and entire communities.
In Minnesota and the 5-state area, we help search for and recover nearly 1,000 of those pets each year, and we’re successful more than 85% of the time. Although most dogs do make it back home, we know it’s a stressful and traumatic experience for every family and their beloved pets. Sadly, some end up in shelters, are rehomed without their owners’ knowledge, lose their lives or are simply never found. These outcomes show how serious the problem is—and why understanding prevention is so important. One major reason the lost dog problem is growing is that more people are adopting dogs, many from challenging backgrounds like Takoda’s. Thanks to increased awareness and compassion, more dogs are being rescued rather than euthanized. But dogs that have been homeless, mistreated or raised in large-scale breeding operations often struggle with fear and under-socialization. These dogs can make wonderful family members and giving them time to adjust and learn to trust their new families can truly work wonders. As we approach cases, we often see how simple, preventable situations can lead to dogs slipping away. Part of our mission is to help owners, rescue groups and caretakers understand practical steps to keep their dogs safe, especially during times of transition. Our case statistics make this need for careful
treatment clear. While the bulk of the dogs we search for have been in their homes for some time, around 25% involve dogs in a new home less than a month—and more than half of those had been there less than 24 hours. These incidents don’t happen because people are uncaring and they don’t occur only with rescue dogs. We firmly believe that pet families in general are responsible and well-intentioned. What’s missing is clear, simple guidance to help owners manage their dog’s safety. With better awareness and a strong safety plan, many escapes can be prevented. Takoda is now in the care of an experienced, trained foster family, aware of and prepared to handle his need for socialization and his natural Husky instincts to run. In upcoming articles, we’ll talk about specific lost-dog prevention strategies to handle dogs from all backgrounds. But first, we invite you to explore our free online school, NeverLost U, created to help dog lovers learn how to prevent problem situations. Visit theretrievers. org/neverlostu to get started on keeping your dog safe. Ron Wenaas is education director for the Retrievers, an all-volunteer team based in Minnesota, offering expertise to help owners and rescues find, recover and keep their dogs safe.
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QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
JANUARY
Centerville welcomes new mayor, city officials
Year in Review 2025
Centennial school district looks to expand The Centennial School District is planning for the future by creating a 10-year facilities and enrollment plan based on student enrollment trends, educational capacity relative to providing current and future programming facility space for co-curricular opportunities. The district was looking to build at 1687 Westview Street in Centerville, also known as the LaLonde property. Centerville Elementary would undergo construction to include new amenities such as two extra music rooms, a new gym and learning common areas.
FEBRUARY
The city of Centerville welcomed not only the new year, but new city officials and a new mayor. Nancy Golden was sworn into office as the mayor of Centerville. Council Members Russ Koski and David Kubat took the oath of office to LORETTA HARDING | CONTRIBUTED begin their four-year terms, and Anita Rios for her two-year term. The council also welcomed Junior Council Member Sophie Wynn, she served a one-year term.
CONTRIBUTED
McCall notches 1,000 points
During her senior season Autumn McCall celebrated her 1,000th career point during a win against Osseo. McCall committed to play basketball at the University of St. Thomas, a division 1 program.
Swenson became public safety director for the city in 2011. “The staff here in Lino Lakes is second to none,” Swenson said. “I thoroughly have enjoyed working with the staff and continuing to grow the organization to perform at such a high level of service delivery.”
Year in Review 2025
Lions ice fishing contest in February. This year, the Lions celebrated 40 years of hosting the contest. The money raised during the tournament allows the Lions to purchase books for elementary schools, help families in need and more.
National Honors Society welcomes new members
MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Lino Lakes public safety director retires The city of Lino Lakes said goodbye to longtime Public Safety Director John Swenson after almost 15 years. Swenson, who grew up in St. Paul, served in law enforcement and public safety for almost four decades.
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Multiple students from Centennial High School were inducted into the National Honors Society. The National Honors Society empowers and equips students with the knowledge and skills to be informative leaders in their school, community and beyond.
Cougar dance teams earns state trip The Centennial Dance Team (CDT) got the chance to compete at state meet after placing second in Jazz and third in High Kick in the Section 3AAA meet. The top three teams advance to state at Target Center. The CDT is coached by Sarah Austin.
Centerville Lions put on annual fishing contest Hundreds of anglers gathered on Centerville Lake and tried their luck on the ice during the Centerville
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Northway Mall. The application was submitted by Menlo Capital Partners and reviewed by the Lexington Planning and Zoning Commission. Multiple residents shared their opinions about the development. Some stating the city does not need a “big business” like Chipotle.
Year in Review 2025
9th annual Guns N Hoses charity hockey games raises funds for first responders
A standing room only crowd packed into Rink 4 at the Blaine Super Rink to watch the ninth annual Guns N Hoses charity hockey game. The Guns beat the Hoses 3-to-1, snapping the Hoses’ winning streak. The event raised nearly $40,000 for first responders.
CONTRIBUTED
Centennial Robotics Team finishes 3rd in 54-team field Akpan dominates at state for title Nora Akpan, Centennial junior, cruised to the state wrestling championship at the Xcel Energy Center. Competing at 130 pounds, Akpan finished the season 30-0. She was ranked No. 1 by the Guillotine and lived up to it. Asked if she expected to be state champ, Akpan said, “Yes. I was going to be on the wall,” referring to the display of state champion at the high school. She placed third at state last year at 130 pounds with a 30-3 record.
Chipotle restaurant a possibility at Lexington Retail Center A public hearing was held at a Lexington City Hall to discuss an application to install a Chipotle at the Lexington Retail Center, also known as
Pine Tree Apple Orchard
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The Centennial High School Robotics Team, The Centurions, competed at the FIRST Robotics Northern Lights Competition and placed third overall. The team competed against 54 other teams from eight different states. The third-place finish is the best finish in program history, and an improvement over the team’s eighth-place finish last year at the competition.
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‘Bingo and Bling’ help raise funds for students
Year in Review 2025
MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED
Centennial Middle School performs ‘Matilda Jr.’ Centennial Middle School presented its spring musical, “Matilda Jr.” at the Centennial Middle School Auditorium. There were 86 students in the cast and crew. “Matilda Jr.” is an ode to the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination. The story follows Matilda, a girl who dreams of a better life, and the children she inspires.
The Chain of Lakes Rotary held its annual fundraiser at the Peder Pedersen Pavilion in Hugo. Funds made from the event went towards SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS scholarships for students at Centennial High School.
Cougar lacrosse kicks of season undefeated The Centennial boys lacrosse team kicked of their season 3-0. The defeated Spring Lake Park by 19-6. Their first two wins were each by one goal. Over the course of those three games, Solomon Marshall netted five goals on eight shots and made
MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED
‘The Addams Family’ comes to life at Centennial High School
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
two assists. Gavin Cunningham had three goals and an assist, and Gavin Krage two goals and an assist. Macin Hehir scored his first two varsity goals, and Rocco Scarella and Nolan Larson each got their first. Alex Koehn logged his first varsity win as a goaltender.
MAY
The Centennial Theatre Department brought the Addams family to life during its spring musical at the Centennial High School Performing Arts Center. “The Addams Family” musical focused on Wednesday Addams. She ends up falling in love with a sweet and smart young man named Lucas Beineke. Wednesday asks her father, Gomez, not to tell her mother, Morticia, about her boyfriend. Meanwhile, other family members discover Wednesday’s love.
Lakes City Council to restructure the city’s Public Safety Department into independent police and fire departments. 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. Mayor Rob Rafferty inducted Curt Boehme as the new chief of police and Dan L’Allier as the fire chief.
Year in Review 2025
New girls club of Centennial focuses on women empowerment
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Centennial District staff recognized for their service
PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Centennial School District announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Mehmet Konar-Steenberg and Charlene Behne were honored as the newest members of the Centennial Hall of Fame during a ceremony at Infinite Campus. Behne (1960-1993) was recognized for her distinguished service within the district. She was hired three years after the creation of the district and named by her peers as the first “Teacher of the Year” in the district. KonarSteenberg (Class of 1987) was inducted for being a distinguished alumnus.
Two Centennial School District nutrition employees were recognized by the Minnesota School Nutrition MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS Association (MSNA) for their service. Barbi King, food service assistant for Centennial Middle School, was named the Midwest region Employee of the Year. Donna Walter, cook manager at Centerville Elementary School, was recognized by the MSNA as the Minnesota Manager of the Year.
Centennial High School juniors Brielle Reynolds and Jenna Orcutt are responsible for the creation of The Girls Club, a club that revolves around learning more about women’s history and their future. Reynolds and Orcutt created the club because there wasn’t one at school, where girls could come together, do service projects and work with the community. They also wanted to create a safe space for freshmen through senior girls to be able to connect.
Lino Lakes welcomes new chief of police, fire chief Earlier this year, Citygate Associates presented its final recommendations, advising the Lino
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JUNE
Year in Review 2025
MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
A trip down memory lane Centennial High School seniors experienced a blast from the past and visited their old elementary school, Rice Lake Elementary, before attending graduation at Roy Wilkins Auditorium on the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities campus.
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Zins earns trip to state tournament
Centennial girls flag football has strong finish
Lino Lakes makes progress on treatment plant
Brady Zins, Centennial sophomore, played his best golf of the season at Section 5AAA and earned a spot in the state tournament being held at Bunker Hills. Zins opened with a 77, tying his season best, and closed with a par 72, for a 149 total, tying for fifth place, May 27 and 29, at Bunker Hills. In conference play, Zins shot 77 twice, 78, 79 twice and 80.
The Centennial girls flag football team had a strong inaugural season, finishing 13-2. In the state tournament, the girls were able to make it to the semifinals. The state tournament was held on at TCO Stadium.
Construction continued on Lino Lakes’ new water treatment plant at 6590 12th Ave. In June, the contractor completed the detention tanks and filter walkways before beginning construction on the precast wall panels on the western half of the building. The facility will help remove iron and manganese from the City’s water supply, providing safe drinking water to the community.
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Centerville welcomes new City Administrator
Year in Review 2025
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Local mayor receives highest honor for elected city officials
Circle Pines Mayor Dave Bartholomay received the C.C. Ludwig Award, presented by the League of Minnesota Cities. The award is the highest honor for elected city officials in the state. The C.C. Ludwig Award was established in 1962 and is named for Clarence C. Ludwig, who served as the League’s executive director from 1935-1959. The award is presented to a city official for their vision, statesmanship and commitment to the public good.
AUGUST
Athanasia Lewis was named Centerville’s next city administrator. The city conducted an extensive hiring process led by GMP, a firm that specializes in municipal searches. After interviewing three finalists, the city council unanimously voted to offer the position to Lewis. Before stepping into her role, Lewis served CONTRIBUTED as interim city administrator since mid-February. Previously, she served as Centerville’s assistant city administrator for three years, assistant city administrator for Collierville, Tennessee and town administrator for Atoka, Tennessee.
Lexington fire chief retires after 19 years
Lexington Fire Chief Erik Edwards retired in 2025 after almost two decades of service. Edwards was sworn in as chief of the Lexington Fire Department in 2021. He joined the department in 2006 and served as captain for eight years before becoming chief.
This year’s Fete des Lacs celebration boasted the theme, “American the Beautiful.” Festivities for 2025 included a public safety night, Main Street Market and Bald Eagle Waterski Show, fireworks, parade, Kids Fest and more.
to the North Dakota champion 10-4 and to the Nebraska champion 10-5. The experience included playing on television (ESPN Plus).
Year in Review 2025
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Fete De Lacs ‘America the Beautiful’
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carts for shoppers to use. “What can I do to help you guys out?” she asked. In six weeks, Wynne was able to collect over 400 bags.
Rotary member helps collect paper bags for the food shelf
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Centennial Lakes is Little League state champion The Centennial Lakes Little League (CLLL) 12-and-under all-star team captured the state championship July 25-27 on their home field, advancing to the Midwest Regionals in Indianapolis. At the state tournament, CLLL beat their longtime arch rival St. Louis Park 8-1 in the semifinals and again 6-2 in the final. They had opened with a 12-2 win over Blaine. All that action took place at Carl Eck Field in Lino Lakes. The CLLL lost twice at Regionals,
Chain of Lakes Rotary Member Mary Wynne collected brown paper grocery bags to donate to the Centennial Community Food Shelf. A Rotary member for 3 1/2 years, Wynne was conversing with a friend when she said she wanted to do something meaningful in the community. Shortly afterward, she visited the Centennial Community Food Shelf and saw volunteers placing four brown paper bags in grocery
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Better together: Night to Unite creates connections
Members of the Lino Lakes Fire Department and the Lino Lakes Police Department stopped at multiple neighborhood block parties to celebrate Night to Unite. Night to Unite is a statewide event that builds bonds among communities and public safety organizations, such as local fire departments and law enforcement agencies. The annual celebration occurs on the first Tuesday in August. Residents and public safety personnel gathered to promote safe communities.
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SEPTEMBER
SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Centennial Fire District takes ‘big step’ to integrate with SBM
MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Blaine welcomes new State Emergency Operations Center The new State Emergency Operations Center opened in Blaine. State, local and federal agencies will coordinate responses to disaster, emergencies or terrorist events at the center. The governor, state director of emergency management and homeland security and multiple agencies will direct state representatives from the center when responding to and recovering from an event. The new center is located at 3925 Pheasant Ridge Drive.
Meet the 2025-2026 Miss Lino Lakes Ambassadors Ella Friedman, Sofia Taylor and Delilah LeClair are the Lino Lakes Ambassadors for 2025-2026. Seven candidates vied for three spots in the Miss Lino Lakes Ambassador program, which was established in 2004 as part of Blue Heron Days. The ambassadors represent the city at parades, coronations, volunteer events and fundraisers throughout the Twin Cities. The city said the program’s goal is to empower young women by giving them opportunities to be leaders, strengthen their communication skills and build their confidence.
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Centerville native Devin Grahek to the city’s Parks and Recreation Committee at its November 2024 meeting. The disc golf course a Laurie LaMotte Park features a practice basket, located between the playground and skatepark, and is nine holes.
Year in Review 2025
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The Centennial Fire District, and the cities it serves, continued to strengthen its partnership with the Spring Lake Park - Blaine - Mounds View Fire Department. This year, SBM offered Circle Pines and Centerville the opportunity to contract for all fire services. SBM has provided leadership services to the Centennial Fire District. Centennial has remained its own entity, with its own firefighters and equipment, he said, but SBM provides a fire chief and managerial services. In return, the Centennial Fire District helps train SBM firefighters on emergency medical technician services.
Blue Heron receives ‘best elementary school’ title Each year, Press Publications hosts the Reader’s Choice Best of the Press Contest, asking locals to vote for their favorites, ranging from the best cup of coffee to the best florist and everything in between. Rising to the top of the “Best Elementary School” category in the Quad area is Blue Heron Elementary School, located in Lino Lakes. The school opened in the fall of 2002 and is one of eight elementary schools within the Centennial School District. The name Blue Heron was chosen to reflect the history of blue herons within the Lino Lakes community.
Disc golf course comes to Centerville park Centerville and surrounding area residents saw some new changes to Laurie LaMotte Park, including the addition of a disc golf course. The park also received a new playground. The idea for the course was originally presented by
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New childhood development program offers outdoor learning Centennial Early Childhood, in partnership with the Wargo Nature Center, has launched a new program called Outdoor Explorers Preschool. The program gives preschoolers the opportunity to explore nature and learn through hands-on outdoor experiences. To start class, preschoolers
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Klein caps strong career
Lauren Klein, Centennial’s No. 1 singles player, closed out her prep career with her first state tournament appearance after finishing runner-up in Section
54 years
7AAA singles. At state, Klein placed 10th out of 16 qualifiers in Class 3A singles. “Qualifying for the state tournament has been a goal of mine since I started on the team in eighth grade,” said Klein.
(651) 484-9046
Scarecrow Crawl kicks off In honor of Halloween, The Rookery in Lino Lakes put on a scarecrow crawl. Participants decorated their scarecrow and placed it along the path at The Rookery. Rookery members and visitors were able to walk down the path and vote for their favorite scarecrow leading up to Halloween night.
Church continues holiday bazaar tradition Since the 1950’s, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Circle Pines has hosted a holiday bazaar that includes vendors,
325 Birch Street, Lino Lakes Apitzgarage.com
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a bake sale, raffle, a white elephant sale, food and more. This year’s bazaar took take place on Saturday, Nov. 8. This year featured 20 vendors. Vendor booths included woodworking, jewelry, crotchet and knit items and handmade fedora hats. There also was chili for lunch, provided by the St. Mark’s choir, and dessert provided by the church’s social ministry team.
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Year in Review 2025
play outside for an hour in a designated playground before heading inside to do circle time, journaling and take a snack break. Molly Wrobel, who teaches the program, said the class will also go on an adventure, whether that is raking leaves or walking to a bridge by the center.
52 Years
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Cougars head to state
The Centennial Cougars entered this season looking like a contender for a state trip, with a tall and agile lineup including six of their top eight back from a 19-12 team that lost a close section final to Anoka. During their regular reason, the team had had eight losses to teams that average 24 wins, but the Cougars (22-8) are in the big show after defeating Andover 2518, 25-17, 25-12 in the Section 7AAAA finals at home. The Cougars then went on to face Prior Lake at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul at the state tournament.
DECEMBER Year in Review 2025
In honor of Veterans Day, students at Rice Lake Elementary honored family members that have served, past or present, by posting photos of them on the Wall of Honor. On Veterans Day, the school honored veterans with a short parade inside the school followed by a gathering for visits and students. The Wall of Honor was organized by Rice Lake Elementary’s Parent Teacher Organization.
Minnesota senator visits Circle Pines The Circle Pines City Council received a visit from Senator Heather Gustafson (DFL) regarding the upcoming 2026 Legislative Session. Gustafson also presented a Minnesota Senate Resolution recognizing Circle Pines Mayor Dave Bartholomay
MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS for his decades of service in Circle Pines. Bartholomay served as the city’s mayor for 20 years. Before becoming mayor, he served as a member of the City Council for four years.
Circle Pines hosts environmental family fun night The city of Circle Pines and the Environmental Stewardship Committee held a family fun night at the Centennial Library that revolved around the city’s Environmental Stewardship Plan. The event featured a visit from the University of Minnesota Raptor Center, a story time and crafts. The plan was created to outline various ways the community can work together to help shared natural resources.
Lino Lakes welcomes new Aldi Grocery Store
are women and is regarded as one of the most influential vampire stories of all time. Senior AJ Basara played vampire Carmilla.
Coach Diggins retires
MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED
Centennial High School reimagines vampire novella The Centennial Theater Company brought its own version of “Carmilla” to life for their fall show. In 1872, a Gothic novella written by Irish author Joseph Sheridan le Fanu was published. The novella was titled “Carmilla” and is one of the earliest known works of vampire fiction. Le Fanue’s vampires
Mike Diggins, who has spent most of his life associated with Centennial football, will be just a Cougar fan from now on. Diggins announced at the end of the season that he will retire from coaching after 15 years as head coach, 37 years on the staff and 45 years total in coaching. Two years after reaching the apex of coaching with his Cougars winning the Class 6A championship, Diggins, 61, called it a career.
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Rice Lake Elementary students honor veterans
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The Aldi grocery store located at 7085 Otter Lake Road in Lino Lakes, near the border of Hugo, officially opened to the public. The store is approximately 19,437 square feet. Its main access is at Main Street and 70th Street. It is open 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
Long time Mayor reflects on decades of public service
At the end of the year, Dave Bartholomay stepped down from his role as Circle Pines mayor after almost 25 years in local government. Bartholomay decided to run for city council in 2001 after he and his wife, Janis, attended a Circle Pines City Council meeting about a potential development. After four years on the council, he ran for mayor in 2006 and has held the position ever since.
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Cougar goalie Kaia Wieland smothered the puck during a pileup at the net.
Girls hockey: Holy Family nips Cougars 3-2 Undefeated and No. 1 ranked Holy Family took a 3-0 lead and held off No. 3 Centennial/Spring Lake Park (CLSP) 3-2 on Saturday evening at Centennial. The Fire (13-0) have beaten the Cougars (11-21) twice, the earlier one 2-0. Scoring for the Fire were Ruby Lenk in the first period and Allie DeFauw and Maddy Kimbrel 49 seconds apart in the second. Mia Sutch got CSLP on the board, unassisted, on their 24th shot against Fire goalie Kayla Swarthout at 10:02 of the second. In the third, Cougar goalie Kaia Weiland saved 11 shots by the Fire and Avery Wagner scored at 15:20 assisted by Madeline Wolter and Alaina Gnetz. Shots were just about even, 32 by the Cougars, 30 by the Fire. There were only three penalties on each side, and each was 0-for-2 on power plays. Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Nick Carls Centennial Hockey December 30, 2025
We need a miracle. We've been searching for Ryder, our Fox Red Labrador since 11-24-2025 when he went missing in White Bear Lake. He's 3.5 yrs old, intact, and not chipped. Call or text 612*/351*2290 or 651*/260*6226 if you know who has him or if you see him. All tips are confidential. Offering reward for his return.
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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. White Bear Country Inn is hiring a PT Front desk clerk. Send resume to Jschoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call 651*/272*3783 White Bear Country Inn is hiring a laundry attendant for Sat & Sun and a P/T Front desk clerk. Send resume to Jschoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call 651*/272-3783
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White Bear Country Inn is NOW HIRING a Weekend Laundry Attendant for Saturdays and Sundays. Start time 10:30am. Send resumes to Jacqlyn at JSchoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call
651-272-3783 160
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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.
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Nick Carls logged six points during a recent three-game win streak: a goal and assist against both Spring Lake Park and Andover, then two goals against Champlin Park. Carls’ totals are 10 goals and 10 assists for the season. The 5-foot-10 senior right winger, in his fourth varsity season, has 32 goals and 32 assists in his career. Coach Ritch Menne cites Carls for “great physicality and a terrific hockey IQ” along with a knack of seeing plays develop before anyone else. “Nick is really good in all three zones and makes everyone around him play better.”
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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.
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APPLIANCE REPAIR
Meet Your Specialist Tom Schneider, owner of Schneider Custom Woodworks, has lived in the area for 30+ years. He started his company in the spring of 1996. S.C.W. does residential and commercial cabinetry, custom kitchens, cabinet resurfacing and refacing, home theaters, custom built ins, hutches, bath vanities, basement/commercial bars, tables, booths, and cashier counters. They also install millwork such as base and case trim, banisters, handrails, steps, and do deck refacing and custom exterior work.
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DECEMBER 30, 2025
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QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS
11
POLICE REPORTS
• While on patrol Dec. 15, an officer stopped due to a vehicle in the ditch in the 1400 block of Ash Street. The driver was uninjured, and the vehicle was pulled out by a tow truck. • Officers responded Dec. 15 to a request to check on a male and a female outside a business in the 700 bock of Apollo Drive. After an investigation, the male and female were both trespassed from the property. • An officer took a report Dec. 16 of a verbal altercation in the 400 block of Elm Street. An adult female was charged with disorderly conduct. • An officer responded Dec. 16 to a senior living facility in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway for a theft report. The identity of the suspect was unknown at press time. • An officer responded Dec. 18 to a theft report at a business in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road. The officer identified a suspect and issued a citation for theft. • An officer responded Dec. 18
to a report regarding a dispute that occurred on a school bus in the 600 block of Lois Lane. The investigation is ongoing. • An officer responded Dec. 19 to a report of an unwanted person dumpster diving at a business in the 200 block of Apollo Drive. The investigation is ongoing. • Officers responded Dec. 19 to a single motor vehicle accident with possible injuries in the 6200 block of 20th Avenue. The victim was evaluated by paramedics but declined transportation The vehicle was towed from the scene. • An officer responded Dec. 20 to a property damage accident involving two vehicles in the 1800 block of Ash Street. Neither party was injured and both vehicles were towed. • While on patrol Dec. 21, an officer stopped a vehicle in the 7500 block of Lake Drive because the female driver had an active warrant. The female was arrested and booked into jail. Editor’s note: Due to early deadlines, there will be two weeks worth of Centennial Lakes Police Department media reports next week.
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Vicki Dobson (651) 407-1211
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DECEMBER 30, 2025
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CITY BRIEFS Circle Pines offers holiday tree pickup
Recycling holiday lights, extension cords at City Hall
The city of Circle Pines will offer its residents holiday tree curbside pickup on Saturday, Jan. 3, and Friday, Jan. 9. Residents should have their Christmas tree at the curb by 6 a.m. for pickup. The tree should be visible, and the trunk end of the tree should face the street. Remove all tinsel, decorations, stands and bags from the tree. Wreaths will not be picked up.
Circle Pines City Hall has new hours Beginning on Jan. 2 Circle Pines City Hall will have new hours of operation. City Hall will be open from 8 a.m. -4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Circle Pines City Hall is located at 200 Civic Heights Drive.
Long, stringy items like holiday lights and extension cords can get caught up in the recycling facility machines when they are put in recycling bins. Circle Pines residents are encouraged recycle their holiday lights and extension cords at drop-off centers or at City Hall. Circle Pines City Hall is located at 200 Civic Heights Drive.
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