Centennial Middle Schools performs ‘Matilda Jr.’
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
Centennial Middle School will present its spring musical, “Matilda Jr.”, April 3-5 at the Centennial Middle School Auditorium. There are 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. Matilda is unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly
lovable Miss Honey. The school’s mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and loves thinking up new punishments for those who don’t abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts and could be the school pupils’ saving grace.
“It has powerful and beautiful music and is a show that is loved by everyone who sees it,” said play codirector Laurie Tangren. “It has poignant and hilarious moments. It just is a classic of modern-day musicals.”
Co-director Eric Webster said that when directing the show, “there hasn’t been much in way of a challenge, and that is due to the fact that all of these kids are so dedicated, hardworking and passionate. Just a superior group of students.”
Eighth grader Charlotte Kellner will play the lead role of Matilda.
“She just is very smart and intelligent,” Kellner said about her character. “It amazes me.” She added that her favorite
Greater sandhill cranes return in Lino Lakes
American Legion makes poppies for veterans April 6
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
At 11 a.m. Sunday, April
6, the Lino Lakes American Legion Auxiliary will host a poppy-making event to honor those who have fought for their country. This will be the first year that the auxiliary will be putting on the event.
“This is the first year we’ve had this (event),” said Michelle Lesch, a member of the Lino Lakes Auxiliary.
“I’ve been involved in making them. My daughter was a junior auxiliary member, so we taught them how to make them.”
Lesch, who has been an auxiliary member since 2011, also participated in a fall conference in St. Cloud with the Legion. She said they made poppies at the conference, too.
This is the first time that Lesch has helped organize a poppy-making event at the
IF YOU GO:
When: 11 a.m. Sunday, April 6
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: Help make 1,000 poppies to honor those who have served. Donations raised during the event will go toward veteran’s programs.
Lino Lakes Legion. Lesch said their goal is to make 1,000 poppies the day of the event.
Following World War I, then called “the Great War,” the poppy flourished in Europe. Scientists attributed the growth to soils in France and Belgium becoming enriched with lime from the
SEE POPPIES FOR VETERANS, PAGE 9
LEANN MICHAEL | CONTRIBUTED
Greater sandhill cranes can be seen and heard in the Lino Lakes area once again. They have an unmistakable call, and can be found in the fields and along the waterways throughout the city.
MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED
The Centennial Middle School will perform “Matilda Jr.” from April 3
• Oak Park Heights resident Chris Harvey, who grew up in Lino Lakes, raised concerns to the council regarding panhandling within the city. He said that in Oak Park Heights, there is a city ordinance against panhandling within the city limits. Harvey suggested that Lino Lakes consider enforcing a similar ordinance against panhandling.
• The council approved the transfer of existing city right of way to Ramsey County for the reconstruction of the I-35E/County Road J interchange improvement project. County Road J, between Centerville Road and Otter Lake Road, is under the jurisdiction of multiple road authorities. The city of Lino Lakes, Anoka County, Ramsey County and MnDOT each share a responsibility for certain portions of the road. The north half of County Road J from Centerville Road to 20th Avenue S. is under the city’s jurisdiction. By taking over as the responsible road authority, Ramsey County can designate the road as a state aid roadway. The city will remain responsible for the cost associated with the improvement consistent with the county’s cost participation
policy. A separate joint powers agreement will be executed regarding cost participation.
• Seth Martenson has been appointed to a paid on-call firefighter position within the Public Safety Department after council approval. Martenson will be stationed at Fire Station 2. The starting wage for Martenson will be $22.44 per hour. He will start on Friday, April 7.
• Alicia Zuhlsford has been appointed to a parttime firefighter position within the Public Safety Department after council
approval. The starting wage for Zuhlsford will be $26.27 per hour. The Public Safety Department currently has 10 part-time firefighters on staff.
• The council approved the adoption of assessments for the 2025 street reconstruction and municipal sewer and water extension for the Pine Haven neighborhood. The total sanitary sewer and water project cost, with contingencies and overhead, is approximately $1.6 million. The assessment will be paid over 15 years at an interest rate of 5%. Construction in the
neighborhood is scheduled to begin this month and last about a year.
• The council approved the adoption of assessments for the 2025 street reconstruction and municipal sewer and water extension for the Colonial Woods neighborhood. The total sanitary sewer and water project cost, with contingencies and overhead, is approximately $1.2 million. The assessment will be paid over 15 years at an interest rate of 5%. Construction in the neighborhood is scheduled to begin this month and last about a year.
• R.L. Larson will be responsible for the 2025 street reconstruction and sewer and water extension project after the council accepted its bid of approximately $5.8 million. The project includes the Colonial Woods neighborhood, 62nd Street and Red Maple Lane and the Pine Haven neighborhood including 81st Street, Elbe Street and Danube Street. Diane Street and Evergreen Trail are also included in overlay projects. WSB will complete construction services for the project after the council accepted its proposal of
approximately $395,300. The estimated total cost for the project is $7.2 million. Funding for the project is through street reconstruction bonds, the area and unit trunk fund and assessments.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, April 7, at City Hall. The next regular City Council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 14.
Madeline Dolby
Scan to see tips and products at hugofeedmill.com
Along with the Pine Haven neighborhood, the Colonial Woods neighborhood will receive new sewer and water services.
MAPS CONTRIBUTED
Construction in the Pine Haven neighborhood is scheduled to begin this month.
APRIL 1,
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING 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
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.” Contact: (651) 783-0055
ST. JOHN'S MEN'S CLUB FISH FRY
When: 4:30 -7:30 p.m. Fridays, through April 11
Where: Church of St. Genevieve, 14383 Forest Blvd. N., Hugo Contact: stgens.org/mens-club
CURRENT EVENTS
FOREST BATHING
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 3
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Awaken your senses and connect deeply to nature around and with you. Experience an immersive, meditative session of the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” with certified ANFT guide Kirsten Welge. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
CONCERT AT THE CAT
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, April 3
Where: The Cafesjian Art Trust Museum, 4600 Churchill St., Shoreview Details: Minnesota Orchestra violinists Catherine Schubilske and Hele Chang Haertzen will perform classical works inspirced by “Echoes of Life: Paintings from the Collection.” Meet the curators, enjoy refreshments and spend time in the galleries. To purchase tickets, go to cafesjianarttrust.org. Contact: 612-359-8991
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST: BEAVERS
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, April 2
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Free naturalist-led program. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment provided. Ages 16+. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
ST. JOSEPH OF THE LAKES FISH FRY
When: 5-7 p.m. Friday, April 4
Where: St. Joseph of the Lakes, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes
Details: Dinner includes pan fried or baked cod, tomato-basil soup, roasted potatoes, green beans, creamy coleslaw, bread and more. Tickets sold at the door. Co-sponsored by the Men’s Groups and Knights of Columbus. Contact: 651-784-3015
ANOKA COUNTY SENIOR EXPO
When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 5
Where: Lord of Life Church,14501 Nowthen Blvd. NW, Ramsey
Details: Information booths, free pancake breakfast, blood pressure checks, mini massages, eyewear repair and cleaning, and live entertainment. Contact: 763-324-1609 or 763-324-1457
BEAUTIFUL VISION: THE ESSENTIAL
SONGS OF VAN MORRISON
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 5
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake
Church Directory
Find
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
Details: Mick Sterling leads a tribute concert featuring the hits of Van Morrison. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
MONROE CROSSING
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, April 6
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake
Details: Performance is a blend of bluegrass: classic, gospel, and original and other selections. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
A MATTER OF BALANCE
When: 1-3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, April 7-30
Where: Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes, 6070 Blanchard Blvd.
Details: Falls prevention program to learn ways to reduce risk of falling and learn exercises to increase strength, balance and flexibility. Register by April 1. Contact: 651-632-5330 or lyngblomsten. org/community-services/wellnesseducation
Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937 761757 Join Us for Mass Mass Times: Saturday at 5:00 pm Sunday at 8:30 am and 10:00 am
7330 Lake Drive | 651-784-7667 admin@linolakescommunitychurch.com & directions (1 mile south of Target on Lake
CALENDAR BRIEFS
Participate in the EGGstravaganza Hunt at The Rookery
The Rookery Activity Center will hold an egg hunt from 6-8 p.m. Friday, April 11. Children will collect as many eggs as possible in the Rookery’s gym and aquatic center while searching for the golden egg. If you find the golden egg, you get a special prize.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their swimming gear to swim. All children will receive a prize bag. The event is suitable for children ages 1 through 7. They must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required and can be done so at tinyurl. com/2fwru3hj. The Rookery is located at 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes.
Centennial Area Chamber hosts Lunch & Learn
The Centennial Area Chamber will host a Lunch & Learn event from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at the Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Circle, Circle Pines. Nickie Welsh, technology trainer and founder of Social Club Simple, will provide practical, real-world technology training. Registration is required. To register and learn more information, go to CentennialAreaChamber. com.
Save the little libraries
My mom loves to read. If you have ever been in one of her book clubs or Bible studies you know her happy place is basking in the warm sun reading a never ending supply of books. Similarly, my wife can tune out anything going on around her when she's reading a good book. I'm guessing in both cases, reading has also been a way to pass the time on the sleepless nights while waiting up for teenagers to get home.
Growing up, a trip to the library required an extensive search of the card catalog to locate just the right book. Local libraries have since evolved not only as a place to check out books with a lot less hassle, but also as centers for free community programs and events. The community recently celebrated 40 years of service by White Bear Lake Library's Branch Manager Therese Sonnek. Therese has surely seen changes to the library in that time. Like the newspaper business, local libraries have had to make adjustments to meet the needs of today's readers, but continue to be as relevant as they always have been. Congratulations and thank you, Therese.
Recently we have been hearing more debate about what books are appropriate to have in school and community libraries. A couple of years ago we had a story in the paper about library books containing certain topics being hidden in the White Bear Lake Library. Now we are seeing books-all of the books-being taken from the little libraries around our neighborhoods. It’s disheartening to read about little libraries being wiped out. Are they taking books because they’re upset about the content? Are people robbing these little libraries to resell books and make money? When my parents downsized and we moved all the stuff out of their house there were tons of books, and I have to admit I scanned a bunch of them to see if they were worth anything. A majority of them were valued around a dollar, which means we might have gotten a few cents per book if we wanted to go through the rigamarole of reselling them to a second hand bookstore. We ended up taking a couple of truck loads of books to donate to the Ramsey County Library in Roseville, where they could be sold at an annual Friends of the Library used book sale.
People do love the little libraries. In my neighborhood, I have seen people of all ages stopping to donate a book or check out the inventory. I think some even have games and puzzles. I'm not sure what the solution is to keep the little libraries stocked. Putting up cameras, getting fingerprint readers, or requiring membership to participate in trading books seems extreme. One neighbor recommended writing “Little Library” on the book. I just hope those who may be clearing out the little libraries would understand how much joy and free entertainment they bring to many of our neighbors.
Big Ben memories
Grabbing a bite to eat at a local restaurant, I ran into Ruth Cochran. The Cochrans were well-known for being the owners of the restaurant Big Ben’s in White Bear Lake in the 80s, at the location that is now Beartown. Ruth told me the story of how her family with 11 kids was written up in the paper because they had accidentally left one of the kids at a gas station. A person who was at the gas station offered to drive her sibling home, pulling in right after the rest of the family who hadn’t realized she was missing.
When I think of Big Ben’s, I remember that it was an institution in our community one that bring memories of first jobs or family celebrations.
Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
ILet me introduce myself
want to introduce myself; my name is Nancy Golden, and I am the newly elected mayor of Centerville. Shortly after my husband and I were married in 1998, we built our home in Centerville. We raised our three children here. We were drawn to Centerville for its small-town charm while still being close to the metro. I love that while walking and biking on our trails, you feel miles away from "The Cities."
Movers & Shakers
Nancy Golden
Our council is settling into their new roles and will hold a retreat at the end of April to discuss their vision for the residents of Centerville. The city is currently in the process of selecting its next city administrator, and we anticipate making a hire by the end of summer. Athanasia Lewis is serving as Interim-City Administrator. She has been with the city for over three years and brings a wealth of prior experience.
While there have been council changes, our City Staff and Public Works team remain committed and strong. You may be surprised to learn that our team boasts a
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combined total of over 76 years of experience.
We have several events lined up for you this summer.
Fête des Lacs (French for “Festival of Lakes”) will celebrate its 34th anniversary this summer. This is a week-long community event that will run from July 15 to 20. It honors Centerville's history and capitalizes on the beautiful parks, lakes, and trails that surround us. Fete des Lacs offers something for everyone. The week is full of games and activities for kids. There is also a parade, live music, fireworks, sporting events, a car show, a paddleboard race, and much more. To learn more about the event schedule, visit http://fetedeslacs.org/.
Main Street Market and the Bald Eagle Waterski show will also return this summer. These events are on Thursday evening. Please visit both the old and new vendors and stay for the fantastic water ski show. To learn more about these events, visithttps://www. exploreminnesota.com/event/centerville-main-street-market-waterski-show/35391.
We have many projects this year.
We received a grant from the University of Minnesota to support the development of a renewed vision for our community. This grant will enable us to enhance our citi-
zen engagement efforts in support of our planning initiatives as we approach the 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update.
This summer will present an opportunity for us to complete our thin mill overlay for 2 miles of residential streets. The improvements include a 1-inch bituminous mill and overlay, replacement of the damaged curb, and repair of structural issues in the project area.
We also received a grant from the MET Council to provide financial assistance to property owners with the removal of Inflow and Infiltration from the regional interceptor through repairs of the sewer lateral or foundation drain. The details for this program will be published on the city’s website next week, and we will post information and updates on this program on our city website.
Our Park and Recreation committee is reviewing park and playground equipment; stay tuned for further updates.
Finally, I would like our residents to know that we are here to listen to you. Please reach out to me, council members, or city staff to learn more about how you can be more informed or engaged in our beautiful community.
Nancy Golden is the mayor of Centerville.
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Publisher’s View
Carter Johnson
• Multiple businesses were recognized by the City Council for various anniversary years in 2024. Those businesses included Farmers Insurance-Elycia Gifford, five years; Apple Garden, 10 years; Especially for Children, 30 years; Down Under Liquor Store, 35 years; Thornquist Chiropractic, 40 years; Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 65 years; and St. Mark Lutheran Church, 70 years.
• The council will support the retention of zoning preemption bills after it voted in favor of the resolution proposed by City Administrator Patrick Antonen. According to Antonen, these bills would
CITY BRIEF
2 Lino Lakes parks
receive new playgrounds
Behm’s Park and Shenandoah Park will receive new playgrounds after the Lino Lakes City Council approved a contract with Northland Recreation Inc. to design, supply and deliver the equipment. The company will also be responsible for the installation of the equipment with assistance from the city’s parks department.
The existing park equipment in Behm’s Park was installed in 1999 and at Shenandoah Park in 1998. The public service department will undertake the removal of the existing equipment. Project costs are approximately $80,000 for each site. Funding for the projects will come from the park and trail fund.
Behm’s Park is located at 7699 Mustang Drive, Lino Lakes. Shenandoah Park is located at 475 Arrowhead Drive, Lino Lakes.
essentially strip cities of all zoning authority. He explained that cities would no longer have the ability to stop a potential development that does not fit with their style of city. The bills currently being proposed would require cities to eliminate parking requirements for new residential or commercial/retail developments; and would allow duplexes, townhomes and accessory dwelling units on all residential lots and, in some cases, require triplexes and fourplexes and more.
One bill would create smaller lot sizes and setbacks, limiting a city’s ability to ensure compatibility in scale and form. Antonen added
that cities with successful local housing efforts could possibly be forced to change or abandon those efforts in favor of state-mandated policies.
• The Circle Pines Lexington Lions will hold its annual egg hunt at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 19, at Golden Lake Park, Mayor Dave Bartholomay announced.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 8.
Madeline Dolby
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LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• Lexington resident Scott Rand raised issues he had with the level of traffic on Naples Street. He said that traffic levels were too high, and that the 35 mph speed limit needs to be monitored. He also mentioned that noise levels were disrupting, specifically when there are motorcycles on the road. Rand said that he and his wife have reached out to the police department and Republic Trucks in the past, but nothing has been achieved. Mayor Mike Murphy said he will speak with Anoka County Commissioner Jeff Reinert, as road problems are under the jurisdiction of the county.
• The council approved a background check for Christ Embassy Minnesota, a Christian education nonprofit.
• The city of Lexington will apply for HUD Community Project Funding through Congressman Tom Emmer. It is unknown whether the application will be approved or denied at this time.
• The Section 4AAA Softball Tournament will be held at the University of Northwest’s campus in Roseville instead of Lexington this year. This is the first time in 10 years the tournament has not been held in the city of Lexington.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at City Hall.
CHURCH BRIEFS
Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church will host an Easter Egg-stravaganza from 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, April 12. Three indoor egg hunts will take place at 10:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. There also will be crafts and story time.
Registration is required. To register, go to tinyurl.com/5vwjdm69. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is located at 1 Shepherd Court, Circle Pines.
Easter Carnival at Chain of Lakes Church
Chain of Lakes Church, in Blaine, will host an Easter Carnival from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 12. Kids will receive tickets to participate in carnival games. Families can participate in a scavenger hunt and concessions will be available. Families are also encouraged to bring donations for a food drive for Hope 4 Youth. Registration is required. Tickets can be purchased at tinyurl.com/bu56szwh. If you have questions, email amanda.s@colpres.org. Chain of Lakes Church is located at 2650 125th Ave. NE.
CORRECTION
In the March 25 edition of the Quad Community Press, there was an error in the “Chipotle restaurant a possibility at Lexington Retail Center” story. It should have read “John Bautch.” The Press apologizes for the error.
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church celebrated 65 years in 2024.
St. Mark Lutheran Church celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2024.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Thornquist Chiropractic celebrated 40 years of business in 2024.
Hannah Testa
CONTRIBUTED
A rendering of the new playground to be installed at Behm’s Park, 7699 Mustang Drive, Lino Lakes.
COPS&COURTS
POLICE REPORTS
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• Police responded March 19 to a report of a missing person in the 300 block of Evergreen Lane in Circle Pines.
• Police responded March 19 to a harassment restraining order violation in the 9400 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington.
• Police conducted a traffic stop March 20 at the intersection of Woodlane Road and Jackson Avenue in Lexington for an equipment violation. A verbal warning was issued.
• Police responded to a report of a physical altercation in the 8800 block of Pascal Avenue in Lexington March 20.
• On March 20, police were dispatched to call reporting a runaway juvenile in the 200 block of Stardust Boulevard in Circle Pines.
• Officers March 21 took a walk-in report of possible fraud in the 0 block of South Pine Drive in Circle Pines. The incident is currently under investigation.
• Police March 21 were dispatched on a report that a suspicious male attempted to lure a juvenile female at a park in the 3800 block of Minuteman Lane in Lexington.
• Officers were dispatched on reports of a disorderly male in the 9200 block of Lexington Avenue NE in Circle Pines March 22.
• Police took a phone call harassment report March 23 regarding harassment that occurred in the 0 block of South Pine Drive S. in Circle Pines.
• Police were dispatched March 24 to a property damage incident that occurred in the 300 block of Civic Heights Drive. Police gathered information from a male over the phone. They were unable to retrieve suspect information regarding the incident.
• Officers were dispatched March 25 on a report of suspicious activity in the 7200 block of Main Street in Centerville.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reports the following selected incidents:
• An officer stopped March 18 to investigate a vehicle parked on the side of the road at the intersection of Interstate 35E and Main Street. The officer made contact with the driver and determined there were no problems.
• An officer 18 received a report of a dog barking in the 2000 block of Balsam Way March 18. The officer investigated but heard no barking.
• On March 18, an officer was requested to verify that a security safe was not reported as stolen in the 7400 block of Jeanne Drive, before the manufacturer would issue new keys to the owner. The safe was inspected and the officer verified that it was not reported stolen.
• An officer responded March 18 to a report of found property in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway. The property was secured at the police department.
• An officer took a call reporting two contained dogs in the 7600 block of Palomino Lane March 18. The officer was able to make contact with the owner, who took possession of their dogs.
• Officers responded March 18 to a single-vehicle property damage crash that occurred at the intersection of Hodgson Road and Lake Drive. The driver was issued a citation.
• Officers responded March 18 to a harassment complaint in the 0 block of Town Center Parkway. The incident was investigated, and it was determined no crime occurred.
• Officers responded to a neighbor dispute in the 1500 block of Lamotte Circle March 18. The incident was investigated and it was determined no crime occurred. The complainant was provided with information on how to obtain a protection order.
• Officers responded March 18 to a noise complaint in the 7800 block of Marilyn Drive. The homeowner turned down the music.
• An officer was dispatched to a
service station in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road March 18 for an unwanted person. The customer left prior to the officer’s arrival and staff did not want to pursue charges.
• On March 19, officers responded to a call reporting a disorderly juvenile at a school in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue. School officials did not wish to pursue any charges and the male juvenile was sent home for the remainder of the day.
• An officer stopped a vehicle for numerous violations in the 6400 block of Centerville Road March 19. The adult male driver was ultimately issued a citation for multiple violations.
• Officers responded to a possible theft in progress at a local business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive March 19. Although no theft was committed, the adult female suspect was stopped and cited for driving after revocation.
• An officer March 19 received a phone call to contact a resident in the 7100 block of Snow Owl Lane regarding a possible scam attempt. The officer investigated and learned the caller did not lose any money.
• Officers responded to a complaint of loud music in the 0 block of Town Center Parkway March 20. Officers spoke with the offender, who agreed to turn down the volume of the music.
• On March 20, an officer received information regarding a traffic complaint at the intersection of Mourning Dove Road and Sunflower Lane. The caller was provided with information to assist in addressing the problem.
• An officer responded March 20 to a report of a suspicious phone call in the 1100 block of Hudson Trail. The officer determined no crime occurred.
• An officer received information March 20 about an illegal burn in the 4000 block of Lake Drive. The property owner was advised that a burn permit was required.
• An officer responded to a two-vehicle property damage accident that occurred at the intersection of
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
Lois Lane and Lake Drive March 20. Both vehicles were towed, and one driver was cited.
• Officers were dispatched March 21 to an ordinance violation complaint in the 900 block of Kelly Street regarding unlicensed solicitors. Officers located the solicitors and issued them a verbal warning for soliciting without a permit.
• Officers received a phone call regarding possible criminal sexual conduct in the 6000 block of Blanchard Boulevard March 21. After an investigation, it was determined no crime occurred.
• An officer stopped a vehicle March 22 for displayed expired registration and revoked plates in the 2200 block of Main Street. The adult male driver was arrested and booked at jail for driving after cancellation inimical to public safety, no insurance and expired registration.
• An officer responded to a two-vehicle property damage accident that occurred at the intersection of Ash Street and Hodgson Road March 22. Information was exchanged, a driver was cited and the vehicles were driven from the scene.
• Officers took a phone call fraud report in the 6500 block of Langer Lane March 22. Officers investigated and determined a crime occurred. An investigation is ongoing.
• March 23, officers responded to a residence in the 6300 block of Painted Turtle Road for a warrant attempt. The individual was not located.
• Officers responded to an assault in progress in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue March 24. The suspecte was taken into custody and booked into the juvenile detention center.
• An officer responded to a noise complaint in the 6700 block of East Shadow Lake Drive March 24. The officer made contact with the homeowner, who agreed to turn down their music.
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Anoka County Jail investigates inmate death
At approximately 12:28 a.m. Monday, March 24, an adult male inmate at the Anoka County Jail was being attended to by detention staff when he collapsed. Lifesaving measures were administered and Allina EMS was dispatched to the jail. The male was declared deceased at the scene.
“Providing care and supervision to all those legally confined to our jail is a responsibility I view of paramount importance,” said Anoka County Sheriff Brad Wise. “Anoka County Jail staff and I will continue our commitment to identify and implement solutions to help achieve our goal, which is the health and well-being of those in our facility.”
As per protocol, the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation with the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. No further information is available at this time.
Anoka County Sheriff’s Office
Multiple donations provided to Sheriff’s Office
The Anoka County Board of Commissioners accepted multiple donations on behalf of the Anoka County Sheriff’s Department. The Anoka County Crime Prevention Coalition donated approximately $4,000 to support the officers’ Explorer’s Post; new factory ammunition was donated for firearms training; and Brady’s K9 Fund donated a custom fit K-9 ballistic proof vest for general K-9 patrol deployments.
‘MATILDA JR.’: Cast looks forward to showing off their hard work, new experiences
characteristic about Matilda is that even though she is so small, she can outsmart so many people.
She said her favorite song from the show is “Quiet,” because it is relatable.
“The theme is a little deeper, and it’s harder to feel,” Kellner said when asked what the most challenging aspect of the show has been. “She (Matilda) is a brilliant little girl, and nobody accepts her for who she is.”
Kellner is looking forward to opening night because she gets to experience performing a lead role for the first time.
Carson Hooper, also an eighth grader, will play usedcar salesman Mr. Wormwood, Matilda’s father.
His favorite scene? “I am on the phone, and I am trying to sell the Russian mafia 355 cars that aren’t new, but I say they’re new,” Hooper said. “So, it is very scheme-y. Then by the next couple of scenes, they find out they’re not real cars and then it goes downhill from there.”
Come opening night, Hooper said he is looking forward to showing off the cast’s hard work.
“We get to show this off,” he explained. “We’ve been working on it since January. We have been putting a lot
IF YOU GO:
When: 7 p.m. Thursday, April 3; 7 p.m. Friday, April 4; 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday, April 5
Where: Centennial Middle School, 399 Elm St., Lino Lakes Details: Centennial Middle School will perform the musical “Matilda Jr.” For tickets, visit centennialtheatre.org/ matilda-jr.
CONSTRUCTION BRIEF
of time into it, and I think everybody here has been doing their best to make it look good. And it does look really good.”
Mrs. Wormwood, Matilda’s mother, is played by eighth grader Sydney Truchon.
“She is a really big character, and she gives a lot of sass to Mr. Wormwood and Miss Honey,” Truchon said about her character.
Her favorite scene from the show is when Mrs. Wormwood is taking dance lessons from Rudolpho, her dance partner.
“I think it says a lot about her character,” Truchon explained, “and how she doesn’t care about reading and (that) looks are everything.”
Truchon said she is looking forward to being able to perform and see the show come to life during opening night.
Sunset Avenue in Blaine, Lino Lakes to be improved
Sunset Avenue NE, between 109th Avenue NE/Apollo Drive and 125th Avenue N./Main Street in the cities of Blaine and Lino Lakes, will undergo construction in 2027 after the Anoka County Board of Commissioners approved the preparation of highway right of way. The proposed improvements will include construction of two single-lane roundabouts and other enhancements.
“Chris was amazing
Delaney Stemig will play Mrs. Phelps, a librarian who encourages Matilda to read.
“My favorite part is being able to be super kind to Matilda and acting that out,” said Stemig. “The most difficult part is probably my scream, because I’ve never screamed on stage before.”
Stemig said her favorite moment from the play is when she gets to yell, “Let’s call the police.”
She added that she is looking forward to opening night to be able to show off the work the cast and crew have put into the show.
Eighth grader Lucy Johnson will play Miss Honey, Matilda’s teacher.
“I kind of relate to her. She wants everyone to be happy and so she kind of pushes her feelings off,” Johnson said.
“She is really kind and goes
through hard things, but she’s not letting that completely take her under.”
“We get to show this off. We have been putting a lot of time into it, and I think everybody here has been doing their best to make it look good. And it does look really good.”
Carson Hooper Centennial Middle School eighth grader
Johnson said she is looking forward to opening night because her little brother will be in the audience.
Charlotte McManus will
play Miss Trunchbull, the school’s head mistress.
“I like how I get to be loud on stage,” McManus said. “It’s really fun to scream at people and be scary.”
On opening night, McManus is looking forward to performing the song “The Smell of Rebellion” because she thinks the audience will really like it.
The curtain rises at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at the Centennial Middle School Auditorium. Other performance dates include 7 p.m. Friday, April 4; and 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Saturday, April 5.
For more information about the show, go to centennialtheatre.org.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
® Chris@ChrisJarombek.com cjarombek.remax.com Mobile: (612) 508-3753 Office: (612) 464-7070
CHRIS JAROMBEK REALTOR®
Lonni Olson
Carson Hooper (left) and Sydney Truchon (right) will play Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood, Matilda’s parents.
PHOTOS BY MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED Kellner (left), who plays Matilda, and Delaney Stemig (right), who will play Mrs. Phelps, rehearse a scene together.
Bling’
POPPIES FOR VETERANS: Proceeds from the event go toward organizations
rubble left by the war. From the dirt and mud grew a beautiful red poppy.
After the publication of the wartime poem, “In Flanders Fields,” the red poppy came to symbolize the blood shed during battle. The poem was written by Lt.Col. John McCrae, a Canadian doctor, while he served on the front lines. He died of pneumonia near the end of the war.
“There are veterans still making poppies, but it’s dwindling,” Lesch explained. “The Vietnam veterans who were making them, their hands are arthritic, they just can’t make them. They’re (the poppies) not easy to make.”
The American Legion adopted the poppy as its official flower to memorialize soldiers who fought and died during the war in 1920. Each year, the American Legion Auxiliary distributes poppies to community members and asks that the receiver make a donation to support the future of veterans, active duty personnel and their families.
Lesch said that the state of Minnesota distributes approximately 200,000 poppies in honor of veterans. Proceeds from the poppy-making event will go toward multiple organizations that the Lino Lakes Legion supports. One program that Lesch said the auxiliary donates to annually is the ALA Foundation,
also known as the American Legion Auxiliary Hospital. The ALA Foundation helps with veterans’ rehabilitation.
“We also like to give to local families,” Lesch added. “This year, we have a veteran at our post who was diagnosed last year around this time with Stage 3 cancer. We gave him $500 worth of gift cards for groceries, gas. We also have another veteran whose wife and daughter are members of our Legion, that is on his third round of cancer. He lives in Circle Pines, so we were able to give him the same. We always like to try and find somebody in our community who we can give the poppy funds to.”
A few years ago, Lesch said that they donated funds made from making poppies to help a veteran obtain dentures after losing their teeth. The auxiliary will also donate some of the poppy proceeds to the Armed Forces Center, Brain Science Foundation and more.
Multiple organizations outside of the Lino Lakes American Legion will be at the event to help create the poppies, including the Legioneers, the Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Riders.
“We do not do this just to be an auxiliary thing,” Lesch said. “I am looking forward to our whole Lino Lakes American Legion family coming together and helping.”
The poppy has become a worldwide symbol of
remembrance, and the Legion will celebrate National Poppy Day Friday, May 23, before Memorial Day. The Lino Lakes American Legion is located at 7731 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
“In Flanders Fields” written by Lt. Col. John McCrae
Frassati Catholic Academy: Entering new decade ‘quite strong’
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
After a decade, Frassati Catholic Academy is still trying to find its identity and what it means to be “Frassati.”
The K-8 Catholic school, located on Bald Eagle Avenue in White Bear Lake, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this school year.
“We are only 10 years old. I see Frassati Catholic Academy like the child of the parents of St. Mary of the Lake and St. Pius X,” said PJ Butler, who took over as principal last July.
In 2010, as part of the Archdiocesan strategic plan, it was decided to merge St. Mary of the Lake (19142014) and St. Pius X (1955-2014) schools serving the White Bear Lake community. In September 2014, Frassati Catholic Academy opened with a renewed vision for Catholic education, serving families in the northeast metro area through a regional school.
“Frassati is not identical to or a continuation of Saint Mary's or St. Pius. We are our own separate entity,” Butler explained. “There is a real joy in seeing your child grow and letting the child grow.
There are great attributes from the community of Saint Mary's, and there are different great attributes from the community of St. Pius. I like to see Frassati as taking what's great from both communities. Like a child, a child has a little bit of mom and a little bit of dad.”
For the 2014-2015 school year, 253 students enrolled.
Nelson receives Athena Award
Standout runner Kylie Nelson is Centennial’s choice for the Athena Award.
All schools participating in this program, named for the Greek goddess of wisdom and skills, choose their top all-around senior girl athlete to attend an Athena Awards event, slated for May 2 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center.
Nelson has made all-state in cross country three times, placing 21st, 13th and 11th. She went to the 2024 state track meet in the 1600, placing 11th and the 4x800, where she earned a fifth-place medal. Nelson was also an all-conference gymnast before deciding to concentrate on running. She has signed with North Dakota State.
Bruce Strand
Brenda Barrett taught at St. Pius for about eight years before reapplying and reinterviewing for a position at Frassati. Over the years she has taught all of the grades a variety of subjects, but she currently teaches Spanish (grades 3-8) and art (grades 5-8).
“I remember teaching a seventh grade class that had 27 kids,” Barrett recalled of the years right after the merge. Now, the average class size is around 15.
In addition to then managing the larger class sizes than teachers were used to, Barrett said it was also a learning curve for the teachers from the two different schools.
“You would think … everybody's kind of the same, but the culture was a little bit different in the two parishes. So, there were some growing pains as people tried to get used to just being one school,” she explained.
The school has also shifted its academic focus over the years.
“When the school started, I think STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) was really hot.
SEE FRASSATI ACADEMY, PAGE 11
SPORTS BRIEF SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
Centennial High School participates in girls flag football
Centennial High School will be one of the first Minnesota high school teams to participate in the high school girls flag football league this spring. In total, around 50 high schools in Minnesota will participate in the league this season. The league was started and created by the Minnesota Vikings.
The Minnesota High School Girls Flag Football League will kick off in April, when teams will compete in doubleheaders throughout the regular season. Select schools will host postseason matchups that will culminate Monday, June 9 with a state championship tournament held at TCO Stadium.
This Week In SPORTS
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Eliot
Shepard
Swimming April 1, 2025
Eliot Shepard, Centennial junior swimmer, made great progress this season to help the Cougars place second in the conference and at sections. “Elliot went from swimming at JV champs his last meet in 2024 to swimming at the state meet his last meet in 2025,” Coach Pete Crawford said. “Great to see an athlete put in the work … He will do what is asked of him to make our team better.” At the section meet, Shepard placed fifth in the 50 free in 22.92, dropping a full second, and led off the 200 free relay with a 22.82 split. He helped the quartet place second and advance to state, where they lowered their school record, placing 17th. Shepard will be the top 50 and 100 freestyler and a team captain next year, Crawford said.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Kylie Nelson will continue her running career at North Dakota State
CONTRIBUTED
The school serves kindergarten through eighth grade.
FRASSATI ACADEMY: Students come from Lino Lakes, other northeast metro suburbs
We were a STEM school, and we really focused on that,” Barrett recalled. “Not that we don't (focus on that anymore). Our kids have technology; our kids have science; our kids have math … but the focus has changed.” One thing that hasn’t changed, Barrett says, is a commitment to a Catholic education. “There has always been an emphasis on the values of a Catholic school; there has always been an emphasis on treating each other well,” she said.
Since Frassati’s inception, there have been two principals and one interim principal.
Like other Catholic schools around the country, Frassati saw a historic uptick in enrollment
IF YOU GO:
What: To the Heights Gala
during the pandemic, as Catholic schools remained open while many public schools transitioned to online learning. In 2020, enrollment was at 205 students, followed by 243 in 2021, 270 in 2022 and 254 in 2023.
This school year, enrollment is just under 200 students. Butler says students come from White Bear Lake, White Bear Township, Hugo, Lino Lakes, North Oaks and other northeast metro suburbs. “As a regional school, we are not limited by the boundaries of the parishes,” he said, adding that he hopes to see more students from Lino Lakes and Hugo as the cities continue to develop.
“We are coming of age …” Butler said. “Part of that coming of age is showing up on the map. I think we
When: 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, April 4
Where: Dellwood Country Club, 29 East Highway 96
Details: The evening will be dedicated to supporting Frassati Catholic Academy and its mission to foster a nurturing environment where students can flourish academically and spiritually. The elegant night will include northern Italian cusiine, live and silent auctions and celebration. For more information, or tickets, visit https://frassati-wbl.org/to-the-heights-gala.
have an opportunity to make our presence known.”
The school will celebrate its 10th anniversary at the “To the Heights Gala” scheduled for April 4 (see pullout box for more information).
This summer, the celebration will continue as Pier Giorgio Frassati, whom the school is named after, is canonized (officially declared a saint) by Pope Francis on Aug. 3. A group of about 40 people will travel to Rome for the occasion. Butler will go and Barrett hopes to go too.
Butler said many schools never get to experience their namesake being declared a saint. “This is a huge deal,” he said.
Looking ahead to the next decade, Butler says Frassati is “poised for something beautiful.” “(A transition) is never super easy. I think the fact that we have weathered the storm of transition. We have weathered the storm of COVID and the difficulties that followed. We are entering into this new decade quite strong.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
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the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce, limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.
SHANNON GRANHOLM PRESS PUBLICATIONS Frassati Academy will celebrate their 10th anniversary on Friday, April 4.
S E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y
Snowy is a sweet, affectionate and curious young lady who likes to soak up the sun and explore her surroundings. She is a 2-year-old Chihuahua/Jack Russell terrier mix and weighs about 16 pounds. Snowy is social with other dogs and she would do well in a home as an addition with another social and welcoming dog. However, Snowy would not do well in a home with cats. Snowy is house-trained and crate-trained. She is cautious with new people, but once she gets to know them and become comfortable, she will be a forever friend and companion. Snowy knows her
COUNTY BRIEFS
basic commands and is treat-motivated to learn more. She enjoys going on walks and she loves to play.
Snowy arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the Lone Star to North Star Program. Snowy has velvety soft fur and a heart-shaped marking on her head. She is certain to bring joy to her new forever family. If you are interested in learning more about Snowy or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.
County accepts funds for Blaine Human Service Center
The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has accepted approximately $400,000 in funding from the state of Minnesota to be used to improve and expand services for the Blaine Human Services Center.
The funding will cover the cost to make upgrades to restrooms, the production room, kitchen and lunchroom and commons areas, and to renovate the client day room to be more accessible.
Commissioners proclaim April as Child Abuse Prevention Month
The Anoka County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month within the county. The county is committed to supporting the prevention of child abuse through children and family services, public health and other communitywide programs designed to meet the needs of children and their families.
DNR BRIEF
Spring burning restrictions in place
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is restricting the burning of vegetative debris due to increased wildfire risk from dry conditions in central Minnesota. The restrictions will apply to Anoka, Benton, Chisago, Hennepin, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Ramsey, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Washington and Wright counties. The DNR will not issue permits for open brush or yard waste in these counties until restrictions have been lifted. DNR Wildlife
Prevention Specialist Karen Harrison is encouraging county residents to use alternatives to dispose yard waste. These include composting, chipping or taking brush to a collection site. Burning restrictions will be adjusted as conditions change. For daily updates on fire risk and burning restrictions, visit the statewide fire danger and burning restrictions page of the DNR website at www.mndnr.gov/ burnrestrictions. More information on composting for woodland owners, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ wildfire/prevention/ debris-composting. html.
SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2025
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL BASEBALL
Centennial is coming off a 12-12 season, 4-8 in the conference and 2-2 in the section. The Cougars, coached by Bobby Lynch, have six regular position players back, and will depend on a young and entirely new pitching staff.
Starting players returning to the team are seniors Ben Clauson (catcher), Caden Coppersmith (pitcher/infield), Jack Dagostino (infield), and Jacob Hosfield (outfield); and juniors Calvin Coppersmith (outfield) and Matthew Siegler (infield). Hosfield is the top hitter back, .333 on 8-for-24 in 11 games.
The four main pitchers graduated. Caden Coppersmith, with nine innings pitched, is the most experienced pitcher back but is injured to start the season.
“As for pitchers, we will be really young,” said Lynch, listing Hosfield, juniors Tony Meyer and Siegler, sophomores Jaden Anderson, Steele Johnson and Jacob Williamson, and freshman Cooper Sanders.
SCHEDULE
4: 30 p.m. Thursday, April 3 — at Blaine
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 8 — at Coon Rapids
4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 10 — Maple Grove
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 — Elk River
4:30 p.m. April 17 — at Robbinsdale Armstrong, 11 a.m. Saturday, April 19 — at Mahtomedi
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22 — Champlin Park
4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24 — at Rogers
4:30 p.m. Friday, April 25 — Chanhassen
4:30 p.m. Monday, April 28 — St. Thomas Academy
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 — Spring Lake Park
4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 1 — at Totino-Grace
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6 — Andover
6 p.m. Friday, May 9 — at Moorhead
7 p.m. Monday, May 12 — at Anoka
7:15 p.m. Tuesday, May 13 — at Eden Prairie
4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 14 — Minneapolis Southwest
10 a.m. Saturday, May 17 — White Bear Lake
4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 — Forest Lake
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GOLF // GIRLS
After an encouraging 2024 season, Centennial returns four starters including “two of the best captains any program could have” in Coach Nicole Christensen’s assessment. She referred to sophomore Taylor Thor, a state qualifier, who placed 48th at state last year, and junior Tatum Knox. Also, back returning to the team are eighth-grader Taylor Nelson, who missed state by two strokes, and senior Gabby Steele. The Tor and Nelson were all-conference last year along with Marina Allen, who graduated.
The Cougars placed fifth of 14 teams in the Northwest Suburban Conference and took third in the section. As far as the coach can tell, she said, it’s the first time in program history the whole team advanced to the second day of sectionals.
About the two captains, Christensen said, “They understand that even though this is an individual sport, we support and care for each of our team members.”
That’s in keeping with the program’s goal: “To create an inclusive environment where it is OK to be vulnerable and fail, with the intentions of learning and growing every day, whether that be their physical or mental golf game, or something they can use in their everyday life.”
With a squad of 27 girls, the coaches are excited for the growth of the program and interest in girls golf. Christensen said it’s too early to tell who else will crack the lineup and much will depend on how the 4-6 players develop.
SCHEDULE
9 a.m. Monday, April 14 — Invitational at Shamrock Golf Course
9 a.m. Thursday, April 24 — Conference at Baker National Noon Monday, April 28 — Invitational at Elk River Golf Course
3 p.m. Tuesday, April 29 — vs. Andover at Bunker Hills
11 a.m. Wednesday, April 30 — Invitational at Oak Glen
2 p.m. Thursday, May 1 — vs. Anoka at Links at Northfork
2 p.m. Tuesday, May 6 — vs. Coon Rapids at TBD
2 p.m. Thursday, May 8 — vs. Blaine at Majestic Oaks
3 p.m. Tuesday, May 13 — vs. Champlin Park at Edinburgh
11 a.m. Thursday, May 15 — Invitational at Bunker Hills
Noon Monday, May 19 — Invitational at Links at Northfork
11 a.m. Tuesday, May 20 — Conference championships at Bunker Hills
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL LACROSSE // GIRLS
Centennial will be looking for new leadership this year as all four all-conference players graduated from a team that was 5-4 in the conference and 9-8 overall. They are coached by Hailee Berg.
The top returning scorers are Ella Weist, senior attacker (27 goals, 3 assists), Lillian Brausen junior attacker (17 goals, 4 assists) and Makenzi Munger, sophomore midfielder (13-13).
Other returning regulars are seniors Katherine Kerr (attack), Savannah Knipping (midfield) and Avery Sauber (defender); juniors Paige Clauson (midfield), Kylie Burgwald (midfield), Rian Cheesebrow (attacker), Avery Novatney (attacker), Grace Ferguson (defender) and Kaitlyn Frank (midfielder); and sophomores Anabelle Moua (attacker) and Kaitlyn Hemr (defender)
SCHEDULE
7 p.m. Friday, April 11 — at Grand Rapids
6 p.m. Monday, April 14 — Blaine.
6 p.m. Wednesday, April 16 — Spring Lake Park
6:30 p.m. Monday, April 28 — at Anoka
6 p.m. Thursday, May 1 — Simley
6 p.m. Monday, May 5 — Andover
6 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 — Champlin Park
6 p.m. Monday, May 12 — Hopkins
6 p.m. Wednesday, May 14 — Maple Grove
7 p.m. Thursday, May 15 — at Hudson
6:30 p.m. Monday, May 19 — at Elk River/Zimmerman
6 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 — Rogers
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL LACROSSE // BOYS
Centennial was a state qualifier last season when they finished 10-9 overall. They were 6-2 in the conference, won the section tournament and went 0-2 at state. The teams previous top three scorers graduated, along with the defensive corps and goalie.
The Cougars have a new coach, Konnor Kapitan, who’s very familiar with the Northwest Suburban Conference. He was previously defensive coordinator for Spring Lake Park/Coon Rapids, and coached JV and bantam hockey in Champlin Park. As a player at Champlin Park, he was a four-year letterman and captain as a senior in 2020.
Kapitan said that despite graduating almost 20 players, the Cougars are contenders again in both conference and section.
“Our goal is to uphold the history of Centennial lacrosse,” he stated. “In my opinion, Centennial has done such a good job with the youth program as well as the JV and B squad that we are on significantly better footing than we appear. We have some strong returners and some promising underclassmen.”
The top scorers that will be back are junior attacker Gavin Cunningham (22 goals, 24 assists) and senior attacker Soloman Marshall (22 goals, 8 assists). Captains are Marshall, senior long-stick midfielder Lars Goerlitz and senior defender Reed Helgerson.
Other starters back are senior Gavin Krage (midfield); juniors Kasey Burgwald (attack) and Kellen Searles (defense); and sophomore Isaak Adams (attack). Looking ready to step in are David Moran, sophomore (mid) and Caden Clarys, junior goalkeeper.
SCHEDULE
6:30 p.m. Monday, April 14 — at Blaine
7 p.m. Wednesday, April 16 — at Champlin Park.
7:30 p.m. Monday, April 21 — at Rochester
6 p.m. Wednesday, April 23 — Spring Lake Park
6 p.m. Monday, April 28 — Anoka
6 p.m. Friday, May 2 — Farmington
6 p.m. Tuesday, May 6 — Edina
6:30 p.m. Friday, May 9 — at Andover
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 14 — at Maple Grove Noon, Saturday, May 17 — Roseville Area
6 p.m. Monday, May 19 — Robbinsdale Armstrong
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 21 — at Rogers
Soloman Marshall
SPORTS PREVIEWS SPRING 2025
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL SOFTBALL
The Cougars, coached by Rick Thomas, were 7-5 in the conference and 11-11 overall.
Seven starters are back this season, including three all-conference picks.
The all-NWSC (Northwest Suburban Conference)
players are senior pitcher Riley O’Connell (1.84 ERA (earned run average), 153 strikeouts in 117 innings), senior outfielder Peyton Corbin (.250 with 12 runs) and sophomore shortstop Kendall Cochran (.300, five home runs and 19 RBI’s (runs batted in)). O’Connell was an all-metro second team pick.
CONTRIBUTED
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GOLF // BOYS
Last June, Centennial sophomore Cooper Daikawa played in the state tournament and placed second overall with a six-under-par 138, after qualifying with a 10th-place finish at sections.
Daikawa is back to lead the Cougars again with seniors Jack Shoemaker and Joey Perzichilli are also returning from the lineup that placed sixth in the section and ninth out of 13 teams in the conference. Another who played some varsity is sophomore Brady Zins.
The Cougars have a new coach, Mike Schlugel. “I am still working to figure out what we have this spring,” Schlegel reported. “I know we have Cooper returning, who will help any lineup. Jack, Joey and Brady have looked strong so far during practice and tryouts. After that we have some players whom I am optimistic can step up and contribute, but we will see how that sorts itself out, the next few weeks.”
SCHEDULE
9 a.m. Thursday, April 10 — Invitational at Bunker Hills Noon Thursday, April 17 — Conference at Links at Northfork
1 p.m. Monday, April 21 — Conference at Golden Valley Country Club
9 a.m. Thursday, April 24 — Conference at Rush Creek
11 a.m. Wednesday, April 30 — Invitational at Legacy Golf, Brainerd
11 a.m. Tuesday, May 6 — Conference at Refuge Golf Course
8 a.m. Thursday, May 8 — Conference at Rush Creek
Other regulars that will be back are seniors Kendall Seidenkranz (outfield), Madison Abernathy (third base), junior Lilly Renslow (catcher) and sophomore Gracie Nickle (first base).
Also in the mix are seniors Alaina Franco (outfield), Ellie Mundale (outfield), Addison Border (second base), Sofia Anderson (infield) and Abby Waltraff (pitcher) and freshman Kendall Saffert (pitcher).
SCHEDULE
4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 3 — at Blaine
4:30 p.m. Friday, April 4 — at East Ridge, 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 8 — at Coon Rapids
4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 10 — Maple Grove
4:30 p.m. April 15 — Elk River.
4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17 — at Robbinsdale Armstrong
6 p.m. Friday, April 18 — Stillwater
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 22 — Champlin Park
4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 24 — at Rogers
4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 1 — at Totino-Grace
5 p.m. Friday, May 2 — at Brainerd
2 p.m. Saturday, May 3 — Mounds View
4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6 — Andover
4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 — at St. Michael-Albertville
4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8 — at Anoka
4:30 p.m. Monday, May 12 — St. Anthony Village
4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 14 — at White Bear Lake
6 p.m. Thursday, May 15 — at Forest Lake
MDE launches public feedback portal
The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) recently launched a public feedback portal at education. mn.gov for parents, students, teachers and community members to submit detailed accounts of the ways recent executive orders and federal education cuts are impacting schools and children across our state. “Instability and uncertainty are not strategies, but collaboration is,” said Commissioner Willie Jett. “In Minnesota, we know strong public education relies on policy decisions that are based on the real experiences of students, families and educators. In the face of unpredictable federal action, MDE will amplify Minnesotans’ stories as we continue to advocate for the stability, resources and policies schools need to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
10 a.m. Monday, May 12 — Invitational at White Bear Yacht Club
11 a.m. Tuesday, May 13 — Conference at Loggers Trail
10 a.m. Wednesday, May 14 — Invitational at Blackberry Ridge, Sartell
9 a.m. Tuesday, May 20 — Invitational at Victory Links
11 a.m. Thursday, May 22 — Conference championships at Bunker Hill
COUGARS // CENTENNIAL TRACK AND FIELD
Centennial boys and girls track teams each placed seventh out of 14 teams in the Northwest Suburban Conference meet last season and might be able to improve on that.
“We feel this year both the boys and girls teams will be contenders in many of our meets, including the conference,” said Coach Steven Thomson.
“We have several returning starters that were state participants. With a large amount of new freshman prospects, this will also be a great development team for future success. We will be a more balanced team this year in both the track and field sides.”
Boys state qualifiers that will be back are sprinters Trystan Green and Gavin Moore. Returning girls state qualifiers are Lauren Klein (800) and Kylie Nelson (1600) and Miranda Sawvel (4x800).
Other veterans counted upon are Nico Jean (triple jump), Maddy Wood (hurdles), Finn Wold (high jump), Noah Berg (800) and Deb Timothy (throws).
Nelson and Klein were conference champions last year. Also named all-conference were Moore and Wold. All-conference honorable mentions were Berg, Wood and Jean.
SCHEDULE
3:30 p.m. Friday, April 4 — at Forest Lake
3 p.m. Thursday, April 17 — Invitational at Osseo 3:30 p.m. Friday, May 2 — Invitational at Spring Lake Park
3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 6 — Invitational at Forest Lake May 20-21— Northwest Suburban Conference meet at Elk River
CONTRIBUTED
Cooper Daikawa
CONTRIBUTED
Kylie Nelson (right)
Kendall Cochran
