Honoring veterans
served in the United States Military on Veterans Day, which falls on Tuesday Nov. 11. Beginning this week through Veterans Day, Anoka County will illuminate its facilities in green in support of veterans as part of Operation Green Light. Residents and businesses are encouraged to also take part. See more information on page 5.
Centennial Theatre spends the weekend at the House of Usher
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
The Centennial Middle School Theatre program will spend a weekend at the House of Usher in its production of “Folly of the House of Usher.” The play is scheduled to premiere Thursday, Nov. 6 and run through Sunday, Nov. 9.
In total, there are 78 students in the show, either on stage or behind it helping with costumes and managing the stage and sound booth.
“There is an old phrase in theater, ‘doorslamming farce.’ We’ve done farce plays before, but this one has actual door slamming,” said Eric Webster, the play’s director.
“Folly of the House of Usher” follows the Hideaway Gang after they receive a letter from Roderick Usher asking for their help. Smelling adventure, the gang accepts the invite and agrees to spend the weekend at the Usher mansion. When the Hideaway Gang arrives, Roderick’s sister, Madeline Usher, informs them that their parents are missing, and that they believe the house to be alive. The group sets off to explore the mansion in search of the parents, where they encounter a slew of wacky and bizarre characters. Webster said his favorite part of the show is the nonstop patter, jokes and physical comedy.
SEE SCHOOL PLAY, PAGE 6
A tale of 2 soldiers: Finding purpose in service
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
One thing that Kevin Larson and Bobby Zellmann have in common is that the military gave them purpose.
From convoy cop to project manager: Lino Lakes veteran reflects on journey After graduating from high school, Kevin Larson wasn’t sure what his future would hold.
“I didn’t really know what to do right out of high school. I didn’t really have much of a
plan or know where I wanted to go or what I wanted to major in, so the military was kind of the next step,” he said.
Larson, now a Lino Lakes resident, grew up in Coon Rapids and graduated from Anoka High School in 2005. He joined the military not only for the benefits, but also because he wanted to travel.
“I was wanting to travel, wanting to see the world and explore and see what the rest of the world has to offer,” he said. After completing boot camp and training for the Air Force, Larson drafted his “wish list”
of five bases he would prefer to be stationed at.
“All five of my bases that I chose were overseas. Then I found out I was going to Minot, North Dakota. I’d never heard of it,” Larson laughed. Larson served active duty in the Air Force as a police officer from 2006 to 2010. Although that base wasn’t on his wish list, he was thankful to be able to travel home to see family and friends on long weekends.
SEE VETERANS DAY, PAGE 2
PHOTOS
Bobby Zellmann
Kevin Larson
Veterans Day on Nov. 11
VETERANS DAY: Lino Lakes, Hugo veteran grateful for military experience
FROM PAGE 1
The Minot Air Force Base opened in February 1957, filling the need for a fighter interceptor base responsible for protecting the United States’ northern border from Soviet bombers. The base is the only dualwing nuclear capable base in the Air Force, hosting two legs of the “Strategic Triad.”
Larson’s job was as a convoy cop. “Anytime warheads needed to be transported, or maintenance was required, we needed to do a convoy,” he explained. “It’s exactly what it sounds like. The new warhead was in a big semitruck, and we had vehicles in the front, vehicles in the back, and transported them wherever it needed to go and provided security.”
Larson is not the only member of his family to go into the military. His father also served in the Air Force for four years and his brother served in the Navy for 12 years.
After Larson completed active duty, he started working in Minot for a little bit before deciding to move back to Minnesota to be closer to family.
“Going from military life to civilian life is a tough transition,” he recalled. “I didn’t really know where I was headed.”
Larson found out there were some openings at the Minneapolis – St. Paul Air Reserve Station at the Minneapolis – Saint Paul International Airport. He has been a member of the reserves now for 12 years.
“That’s where my civilian career really took off. I started doing nondestructive testing (NDT) and to this day I’m still in it,” Larson said. “It’s pretty crazy where life can take you.”
As a member of the Reserves, Larson is required to work one weekend a month. He is also required to put in 15 annual training (AT) days throughout the year. There are also temporary duty assignments (TDY) that he can partake in all over the world. Some range from one to two weeks, while others can last up to four to six weeks. Most recently, he took on an assignment last February in Hawaii.
On a quarterly basis, Larson visits the Hugo American Legion to help out with the Friday night meat raffle.
For the past 4 1/2 years, Larson has worked at Terracon, an engineering and consulting firm, as a
project manager in the materials department.
Larson says his time in the military has shaped who he is today and provided him life experiences he would not have gotten any other way.
“I am so grateful for the military. I truly am. It made me the man I am today,” he said. “After high school, I was kind of lost and didn’t know what to do. I was kind of a punk kid and didn’t really appreciate anything,” Larson recalled. “Once I got into the military, went through boot camp and everything … It made me mature in a hurry.”
Larson says he is fortunate in that he has never been deployed, but he has still had to make some sacrifices, like missing out on special times with his wife Katie and their two children, 2-year-old Sophie and 4-yearold Theo. “My last drill weekend, I missed going to the pumpkin patch,” he explained.
Larson says being in the military has been a great experience. “I wouldn’t change it ever,” he said.
From athlete to officer: Hugo veteran finds fulfillment in Army National Guard
Zellmann, a Hugo resident, grew up in the Norwood Young America area and graduated from Shakopee High School. He had always considered joining the military, but completing his college education was the motivating factor.
“I wanted to finish my college degree. I was three credits away, and basic training gave me four credits,” Zellmann explained.
Military service runs in Zellmann’s family: his paternal grandfather served in the Navy, and his maternal grandfather in the Army.
“I didn’t really have much direction as far as what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I had good leadership traits and leadership ability, and I felt I could contribute to an organization,” Zellmann said. “I played my sports entire life, and I knew that chapter was closing. I’d always heard about the camaraderie in the military, and I wanted to continue that.”
In 2012, Zellmann graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Marietta, Georgia. He and Emily, his now wife, moved out there for several years before Zellmann transferred back to Minnesota. From March 2021 to February 2022, he deployed with the 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, an Army National Guard battalion supporting the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division.
While deployed for Operation Spartan Shield, “Task Force Bastard” comprised 1,100 soldiers. In August 2021, Task Force Bastard, serving as the United States Central Command Regional Response Force based out of Camp Buehring, Kuwait, helped secure Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul during the evacuation of U.S. citizens and allies following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Afghanistan.
The task force worked alongside units to support Operation Allies Refuge by securing vital sectors of Hamid Karzai International Airport and providing humanitarian assistance to U.S. citizens, special
immigrant visa holders and their families.
After returning from deployment, Zellmann reentered his civilian career in finance. “It just wasn’t satisfying for me anymore. I didn’t really have a purpose,” he recalled. “The military gives me purpose.” He added that the military has allowed him to see the “greater perspective” and have a greater impact.
Since 2022, Zellmann has served with the Army National Guard full time in various roles. Most recently, he serves as the medical detachment operations officer and is based out of the Cottage Grove Armory. He drills at the Minnesota Army National Guard Readiness Center in Stillwater.
Zellmann says he is thankful for the friendships and camaraderie he has gained while being in the military, something he hasn’t experienced since being a threesport athlete in high school. He is also thankful for the general support that communities of the north metro have shown him.
“Many times, I’m in a uniform going to work, and I stop at gas station … Everywhere in our area has just been super supportive. Everyone says, ‘Thank you for your service.’ I’ve never had a negative interaction,” he said. “Everyone appreciates what we are trying to do, whether they agree or disagree with the politics; everyone seems to generally be supportive of everyone who wears a uniform.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937 761757
Mass Times: Saturday at 5:00 pm Sunday at 8:30 am and 10:00 am 171 Elm Street • Lino Lakes, MN • 651-784-3015
We welcome you to worship with us Virtually and in Person Sunday 9:30 am Fellowship & refreshments following the service 7330 Lake Drive | 651-784-7667 admin@linolakescommunitychurch.com & directions (1
Kevin Larson with his wife Katie and daughter Sophie.
Bobby Zellmann with his wife Emily and their two children Marek and Kennedy.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
LIVE TRIVIA
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive
Details: General knowledge trivia. No limit on team sizes. Every player will receive a raffle ticket for a drawing to win a free drink. The top three teams will earn a gift card, and the last place team wins a “mini trophy.”
Contact: 651-783-0055
LINO LAKES TOASTMASTERS CLUB
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays
Where: Zoom
Details: Develop your communication and leaderships skills.
Contact: Phyllis Moore: 763-268-9366
CURRENT EVENTS
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Bring a lunch and learn about a local natural or cultural history topic from a naturalist and walk the trails.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
BLOOD DRIVE
When: Noon- 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 5
Where: St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 1 North Road, Circle Pines
Details: Donate blood to the American Red Cross.
Contact: stmarkcp.org
SKULL STUDY
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Handle, examine and identify real and replica animal skulls. Ages 15+; register online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
ST. MARK’S HOLIDAY BAZAAR
When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8
Where: St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 1 North Road, Circle Pines
Details: St. Mark’s puts on their annual bazaar. The event includes vendors, a raffle, bake sale, a white elephant sale, food and more.
Contact: stmarkcp.org
ST. JOSEPH’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8; 9 a.m.-noon Sunday, Nov. 9
Where: St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes
Details: Shop unique gifts, crafts and decorations from more than 50 vendors. Enjoy fresh handmade cinnamon and caramel rolls. Lunch will also be served.
Contact: www.mystjoes.me
FINDING PEACE IN THE CAREGIVING JOURNEY
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8
Where: Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes, 6070 Blanchard Blvd.
Details: Minnesota author and family caregiver Linda Knebel Pruden shares her story of how caring for her husband with dementia provides a witness to the rewards and challenges of caregiving and will sign copies of her book “From Fear to Peace.” First 25 participants receive a free book. Register online. Contact: lyngblomsten.org/findingpeace
FALL WARGO RESTORATION PROJECT
When: 10 a.m.- Noon, Saturday, Nov. 8
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Help restore the natural areas around Wargo Nature Center. Projects will vary by time of year and needs, but may include invasive species removal, garbage clean up and more. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
CENTENNIAL VETERANS DAY PROGRAM
When: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11
Where: Blue Heron Elementary, 405 Elm St., Lino Lakes
Details: Elementary students put on annual Veterans Day program for service men and women. Contact: 763-792-6200
VETERANS DAY LUMINARY TRIBUTE
When: 4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11
Where: Veteran’s Park next to White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave. S.
Details: VFW Post 1782 Auxiliary will set up luminaries at Veterans Park honoring the veterans who inspired our auxiliary membership. Community members who wish to honor a current or past veteran are welcome to participate.
Veterans Day Burger Baskets
When: Noon- 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11
Where: American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes
Details: All veterans are invited to enjoy a free burger meal. Contact: 651-783-0055
Veterans remembered
Nov. 11 is one time of the year we celebrate our veterans, both alive and deceased, for what they have done to maintain the freedom we enjoy today.
Many veterans have been wounded and are struggling. They need our continued support. These men and women are our heroes. Many are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries and other illnesses and injuries as a result of their service to our country.
Organizations like the VFW and American Legion are fighting legislative battles for education, jobs, health care, and for many veterans, a home to live in. They need your support as veterans are waiting for health services and various benefits so they can live comfortably.
Remember to greet veterans wherever you see them and thank them for what they have done to keep this country free.
If you know any veterans or families of deceased veterans, thank them as we approach the holiday season of the year. Sometimes just a card, a phone call or a visit is special and meaningful. Let’s not forget them.
Serve 2 years
I believe every American citizen should serve our country for a minimum of two years in either the military or in public service.
Public service could be the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, police, fire and rescue or civil defense. Following the two years of service to our country, they could be in reserve training or reserve service.
I think this service would help to grow pride and dedication to our nation.
There were nine children in my family. Of the nine, seven have served in the military. Six were in active service and two were career service people. I’m proud of that.
Minnesota fraud
It seems like every few weeks something new has happened with inappropriate use of our state taxpayers’ money.
Our state leaders are also overwhelmed and the federal government is sending people in to help uncover and bring to trial those with sticky fingers in the pie.
Many years ago a mentor, Pastor Lloyd Mattson of Duluth, told me about behavioral science. He said, “Gene, you need to realize that a third of the people are honest all the time, another third can be tempted, and another third are dishonest all the time.”
Over the 69 years in publishing community newspapers, I am aware of several embezzlements. We have reported on stories of break-ins, robberies, and fraud, and this seems to continue.
A problem with democracy, which is a continuing experiment for the United States, centers around elections. When someone helps a person get elected through gifts of money, they also expect something in return. Many of the people appointed by presidents and governors are those who were helpful to them when they were candidates, but they are not always competent in the position they are appointed to. A lot of what we see happening is a result of incompetent people in government roles.
Now at this point in the history of our country, we have such a divided government and growing hatred of each other that the American people are not served in the best way, on both national and state levels.
Free speech is important to maintain a democracy. Let’s protect it and practice it. Letters to the editor are welcome.
OPINION
The fight for food access, our farmers and against fraud
It might come as a surprise to some people that I serve on the Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband Development, and Rural Committee. You might be asking, why is a senator from the suburbs serving on a committee about agriculture and rural communities?
The truth is I wanted to serve on this committee and asked to be on it. I represent farmers right here in Lino Lakes and throughout Anoka County, and it’s one of the most bipartisan committees in the Senate. After all, what brings people together better than food and here in Minnesota our farmers and ranchers make more of it than just about every other place on Earth.
I’ve been thinking a lot about that committee during the fall, as it’s Harvest Time and October is Farm to School Month. I had the privilege of passing legislation funding Minnesota’s own farm to school program this year. This program provides our kids with healthy, locally grown food while teaching them more about where the food comes from. At the same time, it’s another source of revenue for family farmers who make
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this food in the first place. Food and farmers are also on my mind for other, more difficult reasons. Due to the federal government shutdown, almost half a million Minnesotans who depend on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits won’t receive them in November. Unfortunately federal funding for food access has already been reduced and area food shelves are struggling to meet increasing demand.
At the same time, our farmers are facing major challenges as President Trump’s tariffs and other economic policies have hit our agriculture economy hard. Tens of thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, and billions of dollars of exports depend on a strong Ag economy.
I’m hopeful that our federal partners can take a lesson from how our approach here in Minnesota, leave their egos at the door, and put the needs of people first. It’s time to find compromise, whether with our colleagues across the aisle or with our international trading partners, to find a path forward to help Minnesotans.
One of my top priorities for helping Minnesotans in the upcoming session is to address any and all fraud being committed against our state. People are sick and tired of seeing stories in the news about brazen criminals stealing public dollars to line
their pockets. It’s time for this to stop.
I authored the most significant anti-fraud proposal that’s ever passed the Senate, which would’ve created an independent Office of the Inspector General. This new office would be a watchdog ensuring our public dollars are being spent where they should be. It’s the best tool we can use to stop fraud.
Despite getting 60 votes in the Senate, it didn’t get done in the House. I think we can change that, and I’ve been meeting regularly with fellow legislators, partners in law enforcement, and state agencies to make sure this happens in 2026.
We have already taken important steps in our fight against fraud. Thanks to our work in 2025, we’ve empowered state agencies to act more quickly when red flags are detected and expanded the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s ability to take on financial crimes. These new tools are already being used, but I will continue to make ending fraud a top priority.
Senator Heather Gustafson represents Centerville, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Gem Lake, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township, and Birchwood Village in the State Senate. She is Vice Chair of the Senate Education Finance Committee.
QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to quadnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to: Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications
About the Town Gene Johnson
Legislator
Lingo Heather Gustafson
Safety shouldn’t be partisan
Every Minnesotan deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood — whether they live in St. Paul, Brooklyn Center or Maple Grove. Yet week after week, we read headlines about repeat offenders cycling through the system and families grieving preventable losses.
Safety shouldn’t be partisan. It’s about accountability and compassion at the same time — making sure law enforcement has support and citizens have confidence that laws are enforced fairly. When people don’t feel safe, everything else breaks down: small businesses struggle, the fabric of our neighborhoods fray, and families move away.
Dr. Scott Jensen’s call for Safe Communities is about restoring balance: enforce the law, provide mental-health support for those in crisis and strengthen the partnership between citizens and officers who serve them.
Minnesota has a proud history of community leadership. Let’s make sure safety and justice remain at the center of that legacy.
• Lino Lakes resident Catherine Decker expressed concerns about the Natures Refuge North development. Decker stated that she believes the city, the Rice Creek Watershed District and the developer, M/I Homes, are actively violating drainage and grading laws (see full
Rice Creek Covenant Church serves as drop-off site
Rice Creek Covenant Church, located in Lino Lakes, will serve as a drop-off location for the Samaritan’s Purse project, Operation Christmas Child. Filled shoeboxes can be dropped off at the church, located at 125 Ash St.
Collection times are:
• 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17
• 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18
• 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19
• 4-6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20
• 9-11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21
• 11 a.m.- 1p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22
• 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23
• 9-11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 24
For more information on Operation Christmas or to view gift suggestions, print labels or build a shoebox online, visit www. samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operationchristmas-child.
story in next week’s issue).
• Resident Chris Stowe spoke in opposition to the city owning and operating a municipal cannabis business as well as issuing cannabis business licenses to private competitors. Stowe said the city’s role is to regulate businesses, not to compete with private citizens. He added that the city is also exposing itself to legal liability because if a private citizen leaves the dispensary impaired and causes an accident, he feels the city could be held responsible. Stowe proceeded to ask the council to withdraw the city from any involvement in cannabis retail immediately.
• Updates will be made to the city’s personnel policy following council approval. These updates will comply with the new Minnesota Paid Leave Law.
• The Lino Lakes Police Department plans to donate 11 bicycles to the nonprofit organization Bikes for Kids or another similar charitable organization, following council
CITY OF LINO LAKES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Lino Lakes, Minnesota will hold a public hearing on November 24, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Lino Lakes City Hall, 600 Town Center Parkway, Lino Lakes, Minnesota, to consider the following: • Drainage and Utility Easement Vacation - PID #35-31-22-13-0005, 35-31-22-13-0006, 35-31-22-42-0005, 35-31-22-42-0006
- All drainage and utility easements dedicated on the final plat of Lake Amelia Woods
For further information regarding the above item, please contact City Engineer, Diane Hankee, at 651-982-2430.
The agenda and staff report will be available end of day Wednesday, November 19, 2025 on the City website at https://linolakesmn.portal.civicclerk.com/ Anyone wishing to be heard regarding these items will be given the opportunity at the time of the hearing. If you have any questions or need special accommodations, please call 651-982-2400. Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk Published two times in the Quad Community Press on November 4 and 11, 2025.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
ORDINANCE NO. 17-25
AMENDING CITY CODE CHAPTER 1007 (ZONING ORDINANCE)
CONCERNING THE REGULATION AND ZONING OF CANNABIS BUSINESSES
The City Council of Lino Lakes ordains:
Section 1. Section 1007.100(5) of the Zoning Ordinance (R, Rural District, Permitted Uses) is hereby amended to add the following provisions: (po) Medical cultivator, outdoor, limited to 2 acres in compliance with City Code Chapter 617. (p) Cultivation operations for a Microbusiness and Mezzobusiness with a cultivation endorsement.
Section 2. Section 1007.130(6) of the Zoning Ordinance (NB, Neighborhood Business District, Permitted Uses) is hereby amended to add the following provisions: (j) Retail operations for a Microbusiness and Mezzobusiness with a retail operations endorsement, no on-site consumption.
Section 3. Section 1007.131(6) of the Zoning Ordinance (LB, Limited Business District, Permitted Uses) is hereby amended to add the following provisions:
(m) Retail operations for a Microbusiness and Mezzobusiness, with a retail operations endorsement, no on-site consumption.
Section 4. Section 1007.132(6) of the Zoning Ordinance (GB, General Business District, Permitted Uses) is hereby amended to add the following provisions:
(s) Retail operations for a Microbusiness and Mezzobusiness with a retail operations endorsement, no on-site consumption.
Anoka County goes green for veterans
For the fourth year in a row, Anoka County will participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans. The initiative, led by the National Association of Counties, prompts counties to light their buildings in green to show support for military veterans and to spread awareness about the challenges they face and the resources available to them and their families.
Anoka County will illuminate some of its facilities green
approval. According to Chief Curt Boehme, the donation is part of the department’s ongoing management of the evidence room and property held in police custody. Staff identified 11 bicycles eligible for disposal and have fulfilled all statutory obligations to notify the necessary parties. Boehme added that the department did not receive any responses or claims of ownership regarding the unclaimed bicycles.
• The final draft of ordinance 17-25 has been approved by the council. The amended ordinance will allow cannabis microbusinesses and mezzobusinesses to operate within the rural zoning district (R) (See “Cannabis zoning ordinance heads for possible changes,” Quad Community Press, Sept. 16).
• The council has adopted the assessments for the Hampton Addition Development pursuant to the development agreement for the project. The agreement was approved by the council on Oct. 13. According to the staff report, the agreement
Section 5. This ordinance shall be in force and effect from and after its passage and publication according to the Lino Lakes City Charter.
Adopted by the Lino Lakes City Council this 27th day of October, 2025.
Rob Rafferty, Mayor
ATTEST: Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk
Published one time in the Quad Community Press on November 4, 2025.
CITY OF LINO LAKES
ORDINANCE NO. 18-25
AMENDING CHAPTER 1002.01, FIRE CODE ADOPTION
The Council of Lino Lakes ordains:
Section 1002.01. Chapter 1002: Fire Code, of the Lino Lakes Code of Ordinances, be amended to read as follows: FIRE CODE
§ 1002.01 FIRE CODE ADOPTION.
The Minnesota State Fire Code and appendices, as adopted pursuant to M.S. § 299F.011, as it may be amended from time to time, and as modified by Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7511, shall be applicable within the City of Lino Lakes.
(Ord. 12-00, passed 8-14-2000; Am. Ord. 10-07, passed 8-27-2007)
§ 1002.02 DEFINITIONS.
(1) Whenever the word JURISDICTION is used in the Minnesota State Fire Code, it shall mean the City of Lino Lakes.
(2) Whenever the term THIS CODE is used in the Minnesota State Fire Code or this subchapter, it shall mean the code adopted pursuant to this subchapter.
(3) Whenever the term FIRE DEPARTMENT or FIRE DIVISION is used, it shall mean the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department - Fire Division.
(Ord. 12-00, passed 8-14-2000; Am. Ord. 10-07, passed 8-27-2007; Ord. 02-16, passed 6-13-2016)
§ 1002.03 APPLICATION, ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT.
The application, administration and enforcement of the code shall be in accordance with the Minnesota State Fire Code.
(1) The Public Safety Director The Fire Chief or his/her designee, is authorized to enforce the provisions of the Minnesota State Fire Code and this subchapter.
(2) The Public Safety Director, The Fire Chief or his/her designee, may detail the members of the Public Safety Department Fire Department as may be necessary to administer and enforce the provisions of this subchapter.
(Ord. 10-07, passed 8-27-2007; Ord. 02-16, passed 6-13-2016)
§ 1002.04 PERMITS AND FEES.
The issuance of permits and the collection of fees shall be assessed for work governed by this code in accordance with the city›s adopted fee schedule and as set forth in the Minnesota State Fire Code.
(Ord. 10-07, passed 8-27-2007)
Cross-reference:
City fee schedule, see § 218.01
§ 1002.05 PENALTIES.
A person who violates the provisions of the Minnesota State Fire Code or this
from Tuesday, Nov. 4, through Tuesday, Nov. 11, and are encouraging area residents and businesses to do the same.
Anoka County supports nearly 20,000 veterans in various ways through the county Veteran Services Office, veterans court, the Medlink volunteer driver network and other initiatives and events that focus on veterans in the area.
Madeline Dolby
provides for the assessment of trunk water, sanitary sewer and surface water fees. The total amount to be assessed for Hampton Addition is approximately $147,036.
• Council has also adopted the assessments for properties where the owners have requested connection to the city’s utilities. In total, there are five properties. According to City Engineer Diane Hanke, the property owners have signed a petition and waiver agreement, which waives their rights to a hearing and their rights to appeal under the Lino Lakes City Charter and/or Minnesota Statute 429, provided that the assessment associated with the improvement is levied against their property. The total amount to be assessed is $74,093.
The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 10, followed by a regular City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.
Madeline Dolby
subchapter after being given written notice shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Each day’s violation after notice thereof shall constitute a separate offense. (Ord. 12-00, passed 8-14-2000; Am. Ord. 10-07, passed 8-27-2007)
§ 1002.06 CHAPTER SELF-PERPETUATING.
This subchapter shall perpetually include the most current edition of the Minnesota State Fire Code.
(Ord. 12-00, passed 8-14-2000; Am. Ord. 10-07, passed 8-27-2007) Adopted by the Lino Lakes City Council on this 27th day of October, 2025. Rob Rafferty, Mayor ATTEST: Roberta Colotti, CMC, City Clerk Published one time in the Quad Community Press on November 4, 2025. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF ANOKA TENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT, DISTRICT COURT PROBATE DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 02-PR-25-643 NOTICE AND ORDER OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of Robert Dale Mattsen aka Robert D. Mattsen, Decedent
It is Ordered and Notice is given that on November 18, 2025, at 10:30 AM, a hearing will be held in this Court at 2100 3rd Ave., Anoka, Minnesota 55303, for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Will of the Decedent dated, January 19, 2023, (“Will”), and for the appointment of Lynn A. Mattsen, whose address is 23581 Bittersweet St. NW, St. Francis, MN, 55070 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an UNSUPERVISED administration. Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the Personal Representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate.
Dated:
Lynn Malm Lino Lakes
LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
CONTRIBUTED
The 2025-2026 Lino Lakes Ambassadors paid a visit to the Lino Lakes City Council to share what they had been up to since they were crowned this summer. This year’s ambassadors are Sofia Taylor, Delilah LeClair and Ella Friedman.
SCHOOL PLAY: Cast, director look forward to audience’s laughter opening night
“I also love the idea that the house is so big that people are lost in it for years, and the Ushers themselves have never left because the house is so big they can’t find their way out,” Webster added.
Faith Kalvin, a seventh grader, will play Steffiana, a member of the Hideaway Gang.
“My favorite part about playing my character is getting to express myself and interpret it (the role) in the way I want to. It’s just really fun to be able to do that,” Kalvin said.
Kalvin said she is most looking forward to being able to perform in front of the audience on opening night.
Eighth grader Brynn Partyka will play Madeline Usher. Partyka’s favorite thing about playing Madeline is how unpredictable she can be.
“I can be as wild and as crazy and as unpredictable and as free as I want. It kind of makes the character all the better,” she said. Partyka added that her favorite scene in the show is the chase scene, because it is very chaotic and really fun to be in.
“I’m most excited to see the reactions of people when they see different things … Just the reactions of the audience and the laughter, or the gasps, we’ll get,” she said.
Mukwa Spencer, who is also an eighth grader, will play
CITY BRIEFS
Lexington City Council approves compliance agreement
Roderick Usher. Roderick is Madeline’s twin brother.
“I really like how on Madeline’s side he is and how paranoid he is about the house being alive,” Spencer said. He added another aspect he likes about Roderick is how worried the character is about his parents.
Casey, a member of the Hideaway Gang, will be played by eighth grader Nora Beeson. Beeson said her favorite thing about playing Casey is how corny she is.
Her favorite scene in the show is the beginning scene with all the Hideaway Gang, “just because of how different each of the characters are,” Beeson explained.
Erin Hansen, eighth grader, will play Betty.
“My favorite thing about Betty is that she’s very fashionable and a really fun character to play,” Hansen said. She added that her favorite scene is when her character, Dorothy and Skeezer are in the hallway at Usher Mansion and end up getting lost.
“They’re walking around for hours, and they end up in this hallway where they meet the butler, Goose, and the maid, Rowena. They talk for a little bit and eventually they get lost again and find themselves in the waiting room,” Hansen said.
Seventh grader Lucy
The Lexington City Council has approved a compliance agreement issued by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) concerning the city’s water system. MDH found that the city of Lexington is in violation of the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations. Specifically, one of the city’s wells exceeds the level of gross alpha — the measurement of radionuclides in water.
The compliance agreement stipulates that Lexington will work
IF YOU GO:
When: Thursday, Nov. 6, to Sunday, Nov. 9
Where: Centennial Middle School, 399 Elm St., Lino Lakes Details: The Centennial Middle School Theatre Program presents “Folly of the House of Usher,” a spooky comedy that follows the Hideaway Gang as they spend the weekend at the house of Roderick Usher. To purchase tickets online, visit centennialtheatre. org/middle-school-playschedule-info.
Palm, who plays Hideaway Gang member Dorothy, said her favorite thing about her character is that while everyone loves her, Dorothy can also be hard to be around.
Palm added she hopes the audience enjoys the show and they have a good time.
“I hope they like it and I hope it makes their day,” she said.
Hunter Strong, an eighth grader, will play Skeezer. About his character, Strong noted that “I love how scared he is, and I love how his fear is funny.” He added that his favorite scene is the last scene of the show when the members of the Hideaway Gang introduce themselves to the
with the city of Blaine on a purchase agreement to convert the well’s status to “emergency well status” by July 1, 2026. If an agreement is not reached, Lexington will need a new treatment for the well by April 1, 2027.
Hannah Testa
On-street parking regulations kick off for Lino Lakes
Starting on Nov. 1, Lino Lakes residents will no longer be able to park overnight on any city street between the hours of 2 and 6 a.m. unless a waiver has been granted
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Usher parents.
Webster said he is most looking forward to all the laughter during opening weekend.
“Lots and lots of laughter!” he said. “And pride of a great show on our students’ faces.”
Centennial Middle School is located at 399 Elm St., Lino Lakes. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit centennialtheatre.org/ middle-school-play-scheduleinfo.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
for that vehicle. Parking is also not allowed when 2 or more inches of snow has fallen until the street has been plowed. Violators will be ticketed and could be subject to towing at the owner’s expense. These restrictions will last until April 1. For more information, go to linolakes.us.
Circle Pines hosts family fun night
The city of Circle Pines will host an evening of family fun at the Anoka County Centennial Library from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. The event will include a story time, crafts and activities related to the city’s Environmental Stewardship Plan. The Environmental Stewardship Plan is being created by the city to outline simple ways the community can work together to held shared
natural resources.
The Anoka County Centennial Library is located at 100 Civic Height Circle. For more information, visit www.ci.circle-pines.mn.us.
Additional recycling opportunity available for Circle Pines residents
Circle Pines residents will have an additional recycling opportunity from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 8, at Recycle Technologies, located at 1525 99th Lane NE, Blaine. Residents will be able to drop off laptops, tablets, cell phones and scrap metal, holiday lights, extension cords and cables and more.
A photo ID will be required. Residents should enter at 99th Lane NE and exit at Davenport Street NE.
PHOTOS BY MELISSA CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED
Members of the Hideaway Gang will be played by (from left) Nora Beeson, Hunter Strong, Faith Kalvin, Lucy Palm and Erin Hansen.
Mukwa Spencer and Brynn Partyka rehearse a scene together. They will play the Usher twins, Madeline and Roderick, in “Folly of the House of Usher.”
The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following
incidents:
• Police responded Oct. 22 to a delayed report of property damage in the 9000 block of Griggs Avenue in Lexington.
• Officers were dispatched Oct. 23 to the 200 block of Keith Drive in Circle Pines on reports of suspicious activity.
• Officers were dispatched Oct. 23 following reports of a property damage accident that occurred in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington.
• Police responded Oct. 24 to a traffic complaint in the 9300 block of Ryan Place in Lexington.
• Police responded Oct. 25 to a report of a person slumped inside a vehicle in the 7000 block of Centerville Road in Centerville.
• Officers responded Oct. 26 to a phone call that reported fraud in the 300 block of Forest Drive in Circle Pines.
• Officers observed a male Oct. 27 with a warrant in the 2000 block of Main Street in Centerville. The male was arrested.
• Police conducted a traffic stop Oct. 28 near the intersection of Centerville Road and Dupre Drive in Centerville.
• Officers initiated a traffic stop Oct. 28 in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington after observing a traffic violation. The driver was cited.
• Officers fielded a phone call Oct. 28 regarding a possible no-contact order violation in the 9400 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington. It was determined there was probable cause for a crime and a KOPS alert was placed
on the suspect. The incident is under investigation.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• An officer responded Oct. 20 to a disorderly student in the 7400 block of Fourth Street. The incident was mediated, and the student was released to a parent.
• An officer responded Oct. 21 to a two-vehicle motor vehicle crash in the 2200 block of Main Street. No injuries were reported, and both vehicles were driven from the scene.
• Officers responded Oct. 21 to a request for a domestic escort in the 200 block of Baldwin Circle. Upon investigation, an individual was arrested on outstanding warrants and booked at jail.
• While on patrol Oct. 22, an officer stopped a vehicle for expired registration near the intersection of Interstate 35W and 80th Street. The adult male was cited for expired registration, no insurance and displaying registration tabs from another vehicle.
• An officer responded Oct. 22 to a report that a dog that was hit by a school bus near the intersection of Pondview Circle and Sherman Lake Road. The involved parties were given a case number, and the incident was documented in a report.
• An officer responded Oct. 22 to a report of a violation of an order for protection in the 200 block of Plum Lane. The officer investigated and an
• The council has submitted its nominee for the open Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) manager position. According to City Administrator Patrick Antonen, Anoka County has requested that the city submit nominees for the open spot. The city will submit current RCWD Secretary and Board Member Jess Robertson as its nomination. Antonen said Robertson has represent the area well and it has led to a better relationship with RCWD since she began her term. He added that her reappointment to the board would be the best thing for the city of Circle Pines.
• Response times for the Centennial Fire District (CFD) continue to rank among the best in Anoka County, according to Council Member Steve McChesney, who also serves on the Fire Steering Committee. He added that the committee recently
adult male was arrested and booked at jail.
• Officers responded Oct. 22 to a two-vehicle personal injury accident in the 1700 block of Birch Street. An adult male driver was transported to the hospital by ambulance and both vehicles were towed from the scene.
• An officer responded Oct. 22 to an animal complaint in the 500 block of Arrowhead Drive. The officer contacted the owners, advising them of the complaint and the violation observed.
• Officers responded Oct. 23 to a report of an alarm at a business in the 2000 block of Watermark Way. The officers investigated and located four individuals in the building. Officers advised them it was closed, and they left without incident.
• An officer received information Oct. 23 regarding a suspicious vehicle parked in a neighborhood in the 200 block of White Pine Road. The investigation is ongoing.
• While on patrol Oct. 23, an officer located a male driving in the 2100 block of Main Street while his license was canceled inimical to public safety. The male was arrested and booked at jail.
• While on patrol Oct. 23, an officer conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Lake Drive and 79th Street for an equipment violation. The male driver was arrested and booked at jail for fourth-degree DWI.
• While on patrol Oct. 24, an officer stopped a vehicle for expired registration near the area of I-35E and 80th Street. The adult female driver was arrested and booked at jail for driving
passed several resolutions to initiate the merger between the CFD and the Spring Lake Park-BlaineMounds View (SBM) Fire Department.
• Fire Station 1 is scheduled to receive two dormitories, a unisex bathroom and showers, according to McChesney. He added beginning in January, Station 1 will be staffed full time. City Administrator Patrick Antonen added that 14 out of the 15 firefighters currently at Station 1 are going to join SBM.
• Council Member Meagan Bachmayer announced that the city’s Stewardship Environmental Plan survey is open for residents to complete. The survey will help the city create a plan for the community’s natural resources. She added that there will be a family fun night from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 15, at the Centennial Library. At
after revocation and no insurance.
• An officer took a phone call report Oct. 24 of a hit-and-run that occurred in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. The incident is under investigation.
• Officers responded Oct. 24 to a report of disorderly juveniles at a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. The juveniles were trespassed from the business and their parents were advised.
• Officers responded Oct. 24 to a twovehicle hit-and-run personal injury crash that occurred at the intersection of Birch Street and Tomahawk Trail. The suspect vehicle was not located and the victim self-transported to the hospital.
• An officer responded Oct. 25 to a hunting complaint in the 6200 block of Otter Lake Road. The officer spoke to all parties involved and gave a verbal warning for hunting too close to a building.
• An officer took a delayed report Oct. 25 of a possible theft from a vehicle in the 6000 block of Blanchard Boulevard. The case is under investigation.
• Officers responded Oct. 25 to a report of a possible physical domestic in the 800 block of Olive Street. Officers arrested an adult male, who was booked at jail.
• Officers responded Oct. 26 to a report of a missing juvenile in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The juvenile was found as the officers arrived. No additional assistance was needed.
the event, there will be various activities related to the plan. Residents interested in taking the survey can do so at www.surveymonkey.com/r/ EnvironmentalStewardshipPlan.
• Mayor Dave Bartholomay reminded residents that St. Mark’s Lutheran Church will host its annual holiday bazaar from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is located at 1 North Road, Circle Pines (See “Church continues Holiday bazaar tradition,” Quad Community Press, Oct. 28).
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12.
the dogs, who did not appear to be in distress. The owner was informed of the complaint.
• An officer took a report of theft from motor vehicle Sept. 8 that occurred in the 7500 block of Norway Lane. The officer investigated and found there was no suspect information available.
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a phone call fraud report in the 1500 block of Holly Drive. The officer investigated and determined the reporting party was not out any money. No suspects were identified.
• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a delayed report of theft in the 700 block of Apollo Drive from a local business. After investigating, the suspect was mailed a citation for theft.
• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a report of a disorderly male in a parking lot in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers made contact with
Road in Circle Pines on a report of an abandoned blue bike near the path exit.
The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a report of illegal dumping in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway. The owner of the trash was contacted and advised to remove the items.
• While on patrol Sept. 8, officer responded to a residence of a male in the 800 block of Orange Street who had a felony warrant. The suspect was arrested and booked at jail.
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a report of two dogs left inside a hot vehicle in the 2300 block of Rosemary Way. The officer arrived and checked
Madeline Dolby
CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
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
White Bear Country Inn is NOW HIRING a P/T Front Desk Clerk.
Job duties: Checking guests in and out, answering the telephone, and other duties as assigned. Must be fun, friendly, and have great customer service skills. Shifts vary from 7am-3pm and 3pm-11pm. Must be flexible to work both.
Marine Village School is seeking a bus driver to join our team!
Are you looking for a rewarding role with great, competitive pay?
Become part of our small but mighty MVS community — where you’re not just driving a bus, you’re helping move something bigger!
We’re seeking a reliable and caring driver to transport our responsible, respectful students safely to and from school each day. CDL required, bus certification preferred.
For more information please contact us : Transportation@marinevillageschool.org or check out marinevillageschool.org/careers/
Press Publications is now hiring an Administrative Assistant to work 2 days/ week, for a total of 10 hours.
Send resume to ar@presspubs.com
White Bear Country Inn is hiring for a Banquet Captain. For more information contact April at: April@ rudysredeye. com or Call 651-429-5393 Ext. 421
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S
E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y
• It’s October, that special time of year when property owners whose streets have been improved over the summer find out how much they will pay for that benefit. As part of the Chapter 429 process, cities must hold a public hearing for property owners assessed for infrastructure improvement. Following the Oct. 23 hearing, the city formally adopted the special assessments on the 2025 thin mill and overlay project.
Affected property owners can pay the entire amount immediately or take three years to do so at an interest rate of 5%, which council lowered from 5.5%. For community/ public/ institutional properties, council also lowered that rate from $8.35 per linear foot to $5.67 per linear foot of frontage. Residential parcels will be assessed at $750. The total cost of the project was $441,227, $91,701 of which will be paid by residential assessments. Most of the city’s share of $349,527 will come from the city’s street maintenance fund. The 2025 street improvement project was the sixth such project in the city’s thin overlay program, said City Engineer Kellie Schlegel.
• The city has two wells, one of which has been relegated to emergency use because of sand in the well. The city would like to have two functioning wells, so the city approved the plans and specifications to inspect and improve the well at Tracie Joy McBride Memorial Park. Staff solicited bids on work that entailed an initial inspection; basic well maintenance; pump/motor inspection, repair and possible replacement; and removal of all the sand. The lowest of the four
bids received came from Traut Companies, which submitted a total base bid of $58,540 and alternative units of $86,300 for a total of $144,840, depending on the work that is ultimately performed. The engineer’s estimate was $105,865. Work is expected to begin in November. Completion is expected to be in late March or late May, depending on the work needed. Financing for the project will come from the water fund.
• The city is no longer “between cleaners,” now that council has approved a 12-month cleaning contract with Vividly Clean LLC of Andover. For $450 per month, Vividly Clean will clean City Hall and the public works facilities once each week. Exceptions include cobweb dusting once per month and ceiling diffusers and air vents once per quarter. Financing for the service was included in the 2026 budget.
• The property owners at 6860 Dupre Road have been given permission to build their fence in the city’s drainage/ utility easement, after council approved an encroachment agreement. The 42-foot long, 4-foot aluminum rail fence will be installed directly on the property line. The property owners have obtained the required letters from abutting property owners in support of the fence location.
• The residents of 1764 Steven Lane also received an encroachment agreement to install a fence on their property in the city’s drainage/ utility easement. The city reserves the right to remove structures installed in its right of way at any time in the future, if needed.
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION BRIEF
New tool helps Minnesotans see how investments support local schools
The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) has launched a new online tool to help Minnesotans track how federal education investments support students and schools in their own communities.
On the site, Tracking Federal Education Investments in Your Community, users can see how much the federal government invests in their local school district, learn how their tax dollars are used to support learning and share how federal cuts and uncertainty are impacting local students and classrooms.
“MDE remains committed to ensuring every student, of every background and ability, has access to a world-class education,” said Commissioner Willie Jett. “In Minnesota, we believe education is a public good deserving of public investment — and that investing in kids pays off. Minnesotans deserve clear information about how federal
CALENDAR BRIEFS
Students welcome to join writing workshop
Students in grades 4-6 are welcome to join a writing workshop hosted by local author Jake Rudquist from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at the Centennial Library. Attendees will learn how to create suspense and spooky settings, practice writing short scary stories, get expert tips and tricks from Rudquist and share stories.
Registration is required. To sign up, go to https:// anokacounty.libcal.com/ event/15009590. The Centennial Library is located at 100 Civic Heights Drive, Circle Pines.
• The tornado/civil defense/ emergency sirens will sound when needed for the next year, after the city renewed its annual contract with Embedded Systems Inc. for 2026. The two sirens, located at City Hall and between the lakes along Main Street, will be tested daily to make sure they stay in proper working order. The daily test is inaudible, but the monthly test can be heard loudly. The annual cost for this service is $1,199, funded through the city’s general fund. A few years ago, the city tested the market and found that few vendors provided this service. After 25 years, the city remains pleased with the work provided by Embedded Systems.
• The plumbing contractor has recently installed a hydration station at Laurie LaMotte Park to be added to the hydration station already installed at Acorn Park.
• The city is getting a Fiore Tree at long last. Ron Olson of Centerville donated a helical pier and has paid for its installation in Cornerstone Park. The Public Works Department is completing the housing to pour the concrete base for the tree. The pier was installed on Oct. 16, and the concrete base should have already been poured.
• The Centerville Lions annual Christmas in the Park is scheduled from 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, pending approval of the special event permit.
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at City Hall, 1880 Main Street.
Loretta Harding
investments support the students and schools in their neighborhoods. This tool helps families, educators and community members see where their tax dollars go.”
The site includes:
• District-by-district summaries showing how federal investments are used to support students through programs such as special education and school nutrition.
• A story portal where Minnesotans can share how federal cuts and uncertainty are impacting students, classrooms and communities.
• Commissioner Jett’s letters and statements responding to recent federal education actions and proposals that affect Minnesota schools.
Visit the microsite at https://education.mn.gov/ MDE/about/fed/.
Minnesota Department of Education
Introduction to Artificial Intelligence class takes place Nov. 10
The Anoka County Centennial Library, in partnership with MELSA, will host an Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) class from 5-6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 10. There will be a presentation that provides a brief overview of how AI has evolved, its operational principles, its impact on the world and its potential future directions.
The Centennial Library is located at 100 Civic Heights Drive, Circle Pines. For more information, go to www. anokacountymn.gov/2586/ Centennial-Library.
Compost your pumpkins this fall
One of the best ways to dispose of pumpkins is through composting. It’s sustainable, and can enrich your garden soul. Pumpkins that end up in landfills have a hard time breaking down because landfills function to store material and don’t have much oxygen to allow organics to decompose properly.
Residents who would like to dispose of their pumpkins can drop them off at two locations in Anoka County:
• Bunker Hills Compost Site, 13285 Hanson Blvd., Coon Rapids
• Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Compost Site, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
For more information, call 763-7677964 or visit anokacountymn.gov.
Cougars pound their way into state
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
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 1912 team that lost a close section final to Anoka.
Facing a grueling schedule, they’ve had eight losses to teams that average 24 wins, but the Cougars (22-8) are in the big show after defeating Andover 25-18, 25-17, 25-12 in the Section 7AAAA finals at home Thursday evening.
The No. 6 seeded Cougars, with torrid hitting from all around the dial, will open against No. 3 Prior Lake on Wednesday, 3 p.m., at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul.
“We’ve been thinking about this moment for three years and especially since last year when we didn’t win this game (section finals),” said Coach Nicole Christensen.
Their superstar, Elena Hoecke, who helped the Cougars place fifth in the state her freshman year, is elated to have one more state trip before joining the Minnesota Gophers.
“We’ve had big goals, especially coming off our loss in the section finals last year,” Hoecke said. “We wanted to get back here and end up on the other side. But we knew we had a lot of work to do because Andover and the other teams in our section are great opponents.”
The Cougars are 10-1 in their last 11 matches with one payback win (against Chanhassen), a surge that got them ranked No. 10 in Class 4A and posted 3-0 sweeps of Coon Rapids (9-20), Forest Lake (17-12) and Andover (18-13) in the section.
Against Andover, the 6-foot-3 Hoecke delivered 20 kills (three stuff blocks). Addison Kemper, 6-foot-1, had 12 kills (three stuff blocks), 6-foot-3 Nora Lieser five kills and four aces, 5-foot-8 Aubrey Wirkkala five kills and an ace, 5-foot-11 setter Chase Manthey seven kills (three stuff blocks), and 6-foot-1 Annabelle Steinhoff three kills.
Christensen assessed: “We’re a very strong offensive team and we can really move the ball around, thanks to Chase being able to set all of our hitters. We cover the court well, too, because we’re so tall and very versatile and we can just take up a lot of court.”
A highlight for the Cougars was Lieser serving for 11 straight points, four of them aces, to open a 21-10 lead in game two. She put 12 straight serves in play, most with a sinking trajectory.”I try to get as much ‘float’ as I can so it’s hard for them to pass,” Lieser said. She added, “All credit to my team. We all play together and love each other, and we have a real bond.”
Hoecke, recently named to a prep All-America team, helped a national team win an
international tournament in 2024. But doing the same in Cougar red and white is special.
“It’s just a completely different feeling,” she said. “Our home crowd really came out tonight and it was so fun tonight to play on a big stage in front of our community.”
In the semifinals Tuesday, the Cougars beat Forest Lake 25-14, 25-16, 25-22. “We hit .603 as a team — that’s very good,” said coach Nicole Christensen. Indeed, a .300 percentage (kills minus errors divided by attempt) is a solid night. Hoecke had 14 kills, Wirkkala eight and Kemper six. Manthey had three kills and three aces.
State pairings:
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 5
6-Centennial (22-8) vs. 3-Prior Lake (21-10), 3 p.m.
1-Lakeville South (8-2) vs 8-Sartell, 1 p.m.
4-Roseville Area vs. 5-Rogers, 1 p.m.
2-East Ridge vs. 7-Apple Valley, 3 p.m.
THURSDAY, NOV. 6
Semifinals 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.
SATURDAY, NOV. 8
3rd place 5 p.m; finals. 7 p.m.
Cougars thump Shakopee 28-3, reach 3rd round
Centennial rumbled into the third round of state football playoffs with a 28-3 win over Shakopee at home Friday evening.
The Cougars (9-1) now face Moorhead (6-4) on Thursday evening at Spring Lake Park.
Caleb Melser, senior fullback, powered the Cougars with 189 yards in just 12 carries, highlighted by a 41-yard touchdown run.
Cougar quarterback Isaac Belinske-Strauss scored twice on one-yard sneaks, and the final touchdown was a 22-yard run by Carter Radziwill. Justin Driver booted four conversions. Edwin Ekah gained 35 yards in eight carries and Calvin Coppersmith 21 in seven carries. Tanner Dittrich and Finn Undersander made interceptions.
Bruce Strand
6A Quarterfinals:
THURSDAY, NOV. 6
Centennial (9-1) vs. Moorhead (6-4)
FRIDAY, NOV. 7
St. Michael-Albertville (5-5) vs. Minnetonka (8-2)
Edina (6-4) vs. Eden Prairie (8-2) Lakeville South (8-2) vs. Maple Grove (10-0)
Caleb Melser, shown here in a previous game, gained 189 yards against Shakopee.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
All smiles on the way to victory were Nora Lieser, Addison Kemper, Aubrey Wirkkala, Annabelle Steinhoff and Elena Hoecke.
State Representative Matt Norris (DFL-Blaine) will join the Metropolitan Council for a public outreach event from 2-3 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Northtown Transit Center to showcase the new Metro micro transit service and answer questions about the phone app, reduced-fare eligibility and more. The transit center is located at the
Northtown Mall at 398 Northtown Drive in Blaine. The MET Council recently launched the Metro micro transit service, which is available in parts of Blaine, Coon Rapids and Spring Lake Park. Metro micro is a point-to-point, shared ride transit service that uses ADA-accessible minibuses and helps connect riders to shopping, medical appointments, workplaces and entertainment.
State Representatives Erin Koegel
(DFL-Spring Lake Park) and Kari Rehrauer (DFL-Coon Rapids) will also be in attendance. The event is open to the public.
Local state representative runs for auditor
State Representative Elliott Engen (District 36A) has announced that he will run for state auditor after current
State Auditor Julie Blaha announced that she will not seek reelection. The Office of the State Auditor oversees roughly $60 billion in local spending and watches how that money is being spent. The state auditor also serves on several state boards and councils, including ones that oversee state pensions and investments. The 2026 Minnesota State Auditor election will take place on Nov. 3, 2026.
