Quad Community Press

Sounds of the season: Volunteers kick off Salvation Army Kettle Campaign

BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR

New shelter offers lifeline for exploited youth

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Corrie’s House has opened its doors to up to six youth, ages 12-17, who are at risk of or have experienced sexual exploitation. Corrie’s House is the first Department of Human Services (DHS) licensed shelter and group residential program in the Twin Cities, and likely the only one in the state to offer crisis and long-term care for both genders.

Efforts to establish Corrie's House began in 2017.

“We have been working for almost eight years to get to this point. It's very complex to open a home, especially for minors. There are hundreds of pages of policies and procedures that have to be submitted and approved by the DHS, and for good reason,” explained Executive Director Renée Boehme. For the past several years, the Corrie’s House staff conducted countless hours of research not only to understand the issue of sex trafficking but to also look at what services exist around the state and what gaps they could help fill.

The sound of a ringing bell and the sight of a red kettle are familiar signs that the holiday season has arrived. Each year, Salvation Army volunteers take to street corners and storefronts to collect donations that support local families in need.

“This is something we tend to do every November and December. It’s a great way for us to be out in the community, to be visible.

The red kettle is super iconic, because it’s been around for so long,” said Sophie Crowell, divisional volunteer relations

director (Northern Division) for the Salvation Army. She noted that the red kettle is unique to North America, although the Salvation Army is worldwide.

SEE RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN, PAGE 11

“What we learned was there’s very little that existed compared to the need. The need is so high for youth who are in this situation,” Boehme explained. “They have complex trauma from it. It really requires specialized care to understand how to meet them where they are and help them back on the road to recovery emotionally, mentally, as well as to address the barriers that they may have been facing that make it really hard to exit.”

SEE CORRIE’S HOUSE, PAGE 10

Centennial High School reimagines vampire novella

BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR

In 1872, a Gothic novella written by Irish author Joseph Sheridan le Fanu was published. The novella was titled “Carmilla,” and is one of the earliest known works of vampire fiction. Le Fanu’s vampires are women. The novella is regarded as one of the most influential vampire stories of all time.

The Centennial High School Theatre company will bring its own version of “Carmilla” to life from Thursday, Dec. 4,

through Sunday, Dec. 7. It will feature about 100 total students, cast and crew.

“I was inspired to write this years ago, and the time just seemed to be perfect to do it,” said Eric Webster, director and playwright.

The show will have many twists from the original, as the vampires in Webster’s story are out to rid of the world of evil.

The cast will use the pretense of the novel to examine the boundaries and conception of what is right and wrong.

To depict vampirism, Webster said they have a “tell, but don’t

show” approach.

“It’s not hard to make people see things in their mind. Tell, but don’t show. Our minds provide the gory details,” he explained. Senior Crow Pinsonnault will play the Baron Vordenberg, who Pinsonnault describes as “very analytical.”=

“It’s interesting play with all these other characters that are very caring, especially the Vinters, and I’m coming in here and taking notes and solving the mysteries,” he explained.

SEE CARMILLA, PAGE 7

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.

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

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4; the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

CURRENT EVENTS

LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3

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

SANTA PARTY & TREE LIGHTING

When: 5 -7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3

Where: Peder Pedersen Pavilion, 5524 Upper 146th Street, Hugo

Details: Free meet and greet with Santa. Activity bags given to the first 100 kids. Mayor Tom Weidt will light the tree at 6:30 p.m. Attendees should bring a toy or food item for the Hugo Fire Department’s Toy Drive,

benefiting the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf. Contact: 651-762-6300

ECO-ART SERIES: GNOME ORNAMENT

When: 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6

Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Embark on a creative journey through EcoArt. Let your imagination run wild as we craft, create and connect with nature in new and exciting ways. Registration required. Register through the Anoka County Parks website.

Contact: anokacountyparks.com

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

When: 9-11:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 7

Where: Hugo American Legion, 5383 140th St. N.

Details: Photos with Santa and children's activities hosted by the American Legion Auxiliary. Bring a non-perishable food item. Contact: 651-255-1432

SANTA PARADE

When and Where: 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8 in Centerville neighborhoods; 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10 in Circle Pines neighborhoods

Details: Have non-perishable food and new, unwrapped toys ready to donate and put in Santa’s fire truck as he makes his way through neighborhoods. Santa will have treats for the kids along the route. Labeled donations may also be left by mailboxes. All donations go to the Centennial Community Food Shelf. Parade maps in this week’s paper and online. Contact: centennialfire.org

WHIMSICAL WIGS CRAFTER AND CROCHETERS NIGHTS

When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9

Where: Centennial Library, 100 Civic Heights Drive, Circle Pines

Details: Crochet, decorate envelopes, silk flowers and wig packaging. To attend please RSVP to whimsicalwigsmn@gmail.com.

Contact: whimsicalwigsmn@gmail.com

FESTIVAL OF TREES OPEN HOUSE

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6

Where: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake

Details: See more than 30 trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. Photos with Santa, cookies, cocoa and holiday activities. Festival of Trees is also open 10 a.m.3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday until Dec. 20. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

Sincere expressions

BAngle of View

efore “A Charlie Brown Christmas” first premiered on network television, the executives all thought it was going to be a one and done flop and quickly disappear into history. With its combination of simple animation, the use of real children for the voices, no laugh track, contemporary jazz music and — probably most risky of all at the time — the inclusion of spoken verses from the bible, it wasn’t like any other holiday special that had ever been broadcast. If it hadn’t been put together on such a tight deadline and already locked into a place on the schedule, it probably would never have aired. Some of the producers and animators involved in the project were nervous, but Charles Schulz held firm to his vision and convictions. Contrary to the fears of the executives, the show was an immediate hit and was viewed by 45% of the television audience that night. The award winning holiday special had an impressive continuous run for more than 50 years on the CBS and then ABC broadcast television networks before the streaming rights were purchased by Apple TV+ in 2020.

Because Charlie Brown and his friends were such a memorable part of my childhood and in particular the holidays, I’m always pleased when younger people express an affinity for the characters and that their appeal appears to transcend generations. I’ve heard that Snoopy is currently having a moment with members of Gen Z. Other aspects of the Christmas special endure as well, including the soundtrack provided by the legendary Vince Guaraldi Trio. During the recent Gazebo Lighting Ceremony in Downtown White Bear Lake, a DJ got crowd members of all ages dancing by including the iconic “Linus and Lucy” song, which was the defining theme of the special, and over the years has also become a popular song on Christmas music playlists. I also witnessed some unique dance moves spontaneously erupt when a skilled pianist caught the attention of a group of high school students with his rendition of the classic tune at a White Bear Center for the Arts exhibit opening.

For old times sake, I watched the Christmas special on one of its last network television broadcasts. At first I thought that maybe time had caught up with the production, but by the time it reached its conclusion, the sincerity and heart of the message had once again hit the emotional mark. However, an aspect of the show that I found somewhat jarring was how extremely mean the kids are to Charlie Brown. An early documentary about Charles Schulz offered some insight, sharing that he showed an advanced aptitude for drawing in Kindergarten and first grade and also far exceeded his classmates in other subjects. As a result, he was moved ahead two grades and became the smallest student in his classes, where he was rebuffed, bullied and ignored, helping to explain the origins of some of Charlie Brown’s angst.

It’s mysterious why some Christmas specials and holiday movies endure while others fade away. Many of the same concerns about how consumerism and marketing were threatening to overshadow the true meaning of Christmas were present 60 years ago. I think many of us still remember “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” because of its sincere message emphasizing the religious and spiritual aspects of the holiday and also that Charles Schulz refused to compromise the unique vision he and his talented team of collaborators had created for his characters. I sincerely wish everyone who reads this column the best of luck this coming month navigating through the tricky mix of emotions, expectations and other potential pressure points while managing to find some peace and comfort observing and enjoying the holiday season in your own unique way.

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications.

Talking holiday gratitude with University of Minnesota

The holiday season can be a warm and joy-filled time with family and friends. However, many people report elevated stress levels during the holidays. Gratitude has been associated with well-being, positive mood, satisfaction with life and reduced depression and anxiety. This is why practicing gratitude during the holidays can alleviate some of the stress associated with the season.

Movers

& Shakers

Amy Krentzman

University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development Associate Professor Amy Krentzman is an expert on gratitude and positive psychology and shares her expertise on how to maintain gratitude during the holidays.

Q: What is gratitude?

Prof. Krentzman: Gratitude is a positive, pleasurable emotion that we feel when we appreciate the small and big things in our lives. Gratitude can be felt toward another person who has been kind to us and can be felt about a pleasant condition, such as a beautiful day. It can be expressed as appreciation for something you have, for something good that happened or even for something difficult that was avoided. While it is useful for a person to consider their own role in

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bringing about good things in their life, gratitude is often associated with a sense of humility — that we have a good thing or circumstance as the result of someone or something outside ourselves who has been good or generous to us. Gratitude is felt strongly in response to things a person has, but that they do not necessarily feel they earned.

Q: What are the benefits of gratitude?

Prof. Krentzman: Gratitude has many benefits. It shifts the mind away from the negative to the positive. Because of a psychological principle called the negativity bias, negative thoughts and emotions impact us more strongly than positive or neutral ones. Gratitude practice helps tip the balance the other way — to place emphasis on the profoundly positive things in our lives. People may not realize that gratitude has a social aspect, too. It can improve relationships. That can lead to a mutual exchange of good things between people which can strengthen the foundation of the relationship.

Q: How can someone get started with a gratitude practice?

Prof. Krentzman: I favor two approaches in combination. One is to think about what you are thankful for — what you are glad about that you have experienced in the past or currently have in your life. The key is to consider ordinary, everyday things that you might have started to take for granted, like having a warm coat on a cold day. Another approach to gratitude is to look back over the past

day and collect a list of good things that happened. Remember that small things count — for example, you might list, “I paid less than five dollars for a great shirt at the consignment shop.”

Q: Are there any downsides to gratitude?

Prof. Krentzman: It is important to remember that gratitude affirms the status quo. It invites us to find and appreciate good things that are true for us now. If someone is in a situation or circumstance where a change might be in their best interest, then a gratitude practice might not support that change.

Another possible downside to gratitude is that people might have a hard time thinking of things to be grateful for. This might feel discouraging. Hearing what others are grateful for, and referring to lists of things to be thankful for can really help with this. Another thing to be aware of is that a gratitude practice can get stale. Your job, your home, your health and your spouse might be the greatest things you have to appreciate. But day after day, writing, “job, home, health, spouse” can get repetitive and stop delivering the power inherent in gratitude. The challenge here is to consider different small, good things to be grateful for, or to consult lists of examples, to inspire novelty and renewed appreciation for good things present in life.

Amy Krentzman is an associate professor at the University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development.

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.

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Centerville, Circle Pines welcome Santa the week of Dec. 8

The cities of Centerville and Circle Pines will welcome Santa the week of Dec. 8. Centerville residents will have a chance to kick off the holiday season and catch a glimpse of Santa, beginning at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, as he goes through various neighborhoods in the area. At 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, Santa will visit multiple Circle Pines neighborhoods collecting nonperishable food items and unwrapped new toys for the Centennial Community Food Shelf.

Grateful for this community

During this season of Thanksgiving, I am especially grateful to live in a community in which we support one another.

students in need with the supplies to succeed.”

The Centennial Community Backpack Program (CCBP) is an all-volunteer nonprofit community organization sponsored by Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Our mission is “to provide

In this, our 30th program year, over 30 community volunteers donated their time and talents. Ninetytwo individuals and six organizations purchased and custompacked backpacks with supplies for elementary and high school students. In addition, 34 individuals and six organizations donated funds to the program, which were used to

purchase backpacks and supplies for middle school and high school students.

Together as a community, we were able to provide over 475 students from 203 families in the Centennial School District with school supplies. Thank you to all of you who contributed to this communitywide effort!

For more information about this program, please contact us at centennialbackpack@ gmail.com.

Juli Smith, co-coordinator of the Centennial Community Backpack Program

• Serving Families for more than 115 years

• Fourth generation, Family owned provider

• We provide a personal, thorough service

• We offer free, no-obligation pre-planning consultations

MUELLER-BIES FUNERAL HOMES

LINO LAKES 7050 Lake Drive 651-784-3390 www.muellerbies.com email: staff@muellerbies.com ROSEVILLE 2130 N. Dale St. 651-487-2550

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

SPORTS PREVIEWS WINTER 2025-26

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GIRLS BASKETBALL

Until last year, the Cougar girls’ basketball had a streak of at least 23 straight winning seasons with 10 state tournament trips and an average of 21 wins per year. Press Publications has records only back to 2003, which was the team’s first state tournament year.

That ended when the Cougars were 8-21 officially last year because nine wins were forfeited due to inadvertent use of an ineligible transfer player. Despite this, the team did reach the section finals. The Cougars look to get back on track this season.

There’s a new coach, Jason Wirtz, after Jamie Sobolik stepped down. Wirtz, a special education teacher, was formerly an assistant coach at Blaine. He was named Section Assistant Coach of the year twice.

Five of the top ten players have graduated. The top scorers back are forward Sydney Schmitz (12.4 ppg), guard Amelia Delmeico (5.7) and guard Kate Lee (4.9), all seniors. Other returning players are senior center Abby Matthew and junior forward Ava Taylor. Also seeing action at guard will be senior Kaylin Green, sophomore Addi Sears and freshman Brooklyn Larson. Two more seniors are Ellie Mrozinski and Anj Patel.

“We will have several players seeing action as we will be playing an aggressive style of defense and an up-tempo offense,” Wirtz said. Team strengths are “toughness, togetherness and work ethic.” Their goal is “disciplined, connected basketball.” They’ll be expected to do the right things and “uphold the standard that defines Centennial girls’ basketball.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL BOYS BASKETBALL

The Cougars are rebuilding around Tristan Hanson after four starters graduated, including a 24-points-per-game star. Hanson, 6-foot-5 senior forward, averaged 15 points on a 1514, section runner-up team. One top sub returns, senior Zach Espinosa (4 ppg). Hanson and Espinosa are captains. Other lettermen back are seniors Shawn Eline,Quincy Sackor and Skylar Mortenson; juniors Brett Pullman, Caden Kimman, Logan Mielke and Wes Kukkonen; and sophomores Brady Anderson and Bryant Richardson. Also seeing action will be sophomores Teagan Mortenson and Ebba Amenti and freshman Wesley Guanzini.

“We will be a scrappy, hard-working and competitive group that will get after it night in and night out,” Coach Spencer Waldvogel said. “If we can do this at a consistent rate, good things will happen for us. We expect to compete for a Section 7AAAA championship like last year.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL BOYS HOCKEY

The Cougars dipped to 9-17 last year after five straight winning seasons and one state trip. That team was all underclassmen except for three seniors.

“This group has very high expectations and want to put Centennial Hockey back where it belongs, contending for a

back a ton of fire power and the guys have worked extremely hard over the summer.”

The squad has speed, grit and a high hockey IQ, Menne said, and “should be a ton of fun to watch.”

Their top five scorers return: seniors Joey Hemr (13 goals, 15 assists), Gavin Cunningham (8-16), Cooper Hehir (5-12), junior Kaden Johnson (10-7) and senior Nick Carls (7-8).

Others back who played every game are seniors Keegan Julik, Cooper Daikawa, Kellen Searles, Tanner Dittrich and Matthew Siegler; and juniors Nolan Border, Isaak Adams and Eddy Dropps. Other skaters who’ll see action are sophomores Jacob Homicke and Macin Hehir. Last year’s solid goalie Easton Cody graduated. This year’s net-minders are seniors Quinn Gould and Kayden Thalhuber and junior Flynn Sanburg.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GIRLS HOCKEY

Centennial/Spring Lake Park, coached by Sean Molin, are poised to make another run at a state title after two outstanding seasons.

They took a 26-2 record and the No. 1 rank into state last year but lost twice. The year before, they were 24-1-2 before being upset in the section finals.

Their top scorer graduated but 12 of the top 15 skaters return from a team that pumped in 235 goals, plus junior goalie Kaia Weiland (.935 save percentage). Top scorers back are junior Grace Laager (23 goals, 36 assists), sophomore Mia Sutch (32-19), senior Katie Ball (5-31), senior Ella Perreault (13-12), sophomore Annabelle Buccicone (12-12) and junior Maddie Wolter (8-14).

Others back who played every game are seniors Ayla Specht, Lillian Renslow and Melanie Reff; juniors Brooke Ueland and Sam Kelzenberg; sophomore Teagan Olson; and freshman Jozie Kelzenberg. Added to the mix this year are Alaina Gnetz, Avery Wagner, Stella Kramer, Kathryn Genia, Kaitlyn Hemr, Nora Dropps, Keira Briggs and Brenna Nowling. The Cougars, ranked No. 2 by Let’s Play Hockey, have started the season 2-0-1, with a tie against No. 5 Minnetonka. Newcomers Wagner and Gnetz have scored three goals each.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL SWIMMING & DIVING

The bar was raised for Centennial swimming last season when the Cougars placed second in the section for the third straight year and also took second in the conference.

“We are looking to improve on the success of last season,” said Coach Pete Crawford, “and will be a team to watch this season. We are looking to our young swimmers and divers to fill some gaps left by our graduating seniors. Three school records were broken last year, so the sights are set to try to break more this season.”

Junior captain Benno Schuhbauer, who scored points in the 100 freestyle and backstroke at state, is aiming to get into the top eight this year.

Other captains include seniors Elliot Shepard and Isaac Nguyen and junior Brendan Chretien. Juniors Sawyer Celotta and Grant Page were part of the state qualifying 200 free relay and “look to have big roles in this year’s team,” Crawford said. Sophomore Blake Thorson and Elijah Manthei shore up the diving and both will be contending for a state berth, Crawford said. Also poised to make an impact are sophomores Ethan

Stegora, Evan Lautenschlager, Devin Swenson and Harvey Czapko; juniors Brennan Nielson and Alex Peacock; and eighthgrader Eli Hoerl.

The Cougars hope to overtake Duluth and win the section this year after three runner-up finishes and get another contingent of swimmers into the state meet.

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL WRESTLING

The Centennial wrestling program has improved every year since Chase Steffen took over. Last year the Cougars logged an 11-1 conference slate and 23-8 overall — and for this year, 11 of 13 starters are returning.

“We have set our sights on a conference championship this year,” Steffen said, noting that they lost only to champion Anoka last season. “We have a very competitive conference and will try to get to the top.”

Captains are Tyler Cook, Logan Fu, Andrew Person, Dylan Larson, and Baraka Kamundi. Returning all-Northwest Suburban matmen are seniors Cook and Andrew Person and eighth-graders Jack Grygelko and Evan Boesch. Honorable mentions back are senior Fu, juniors Carter Stuckey and Ben Johnson and sophomore Parker Leiter. Returning state entrants are Grygelko and junior Jack Rugesegger.

In the girls contingent of the team, the Cougars boast a reigning state champion, Nora Akpan.

The Cougars have been invited to the Clash National Wrestling Duals in Lacrosse, WI, Jan. 2-3. The event “features some of ghetto best dual teams in the nation,” Steffen noted. “We are very excited to compete against the best.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL DANCE TEAM

Centennial Dance Team has 16 returning High Kick dancers and 11 returning Jazz dancers. Five senior leaders, listed by Coach Sarah Austin, are Cecilia Austin, Grace Ferguson, Amelia Patterson, Karley Ellis and Reese Johnson. Austin and Ferguson were all-conference and all-star picks last year and Patterson was all-conference. “We have a team of veteran dancers that are motivated to improve with each competition,” said coach Austin, “and to finish in the top of our conference and section as we did last season.”

COUGARS // CENTENNIAL GYMNASTICS

Grace Zimmerman and Lily Kissick, both juniors, are captains of a squad with seven returning gymnasts and eight new ones. “The girls have worked hard in the off season and we're expecting a lot of new personal bests this year,” Coach Karley Kissick said.

Other returning gymnasts to watch are senior Amelya Gannon and eighth-grader Nola Wrobel. New in the lineup are junior Bella Brunn, sophomore Elsa Hjelmeland and seventh-grader Addi Baker.

“Our goal is to start out with a varsity team score of 128 and a JV score of 112,” said Kissick, “and to have some individual representation at the state tournament.”

BruceStrand

CARMILLA: Theater company’s adaptation focuses on the question ‘what

Pinsonnault said one of his favorite scenes from the show is the last one.

“We worked really hard on (it)… It’s just this beautiful justice moment that also gives you the moral question of ‘What is justice?’” he said.

Eden Cutts, also a senior, will play Laura Vinter.

“She’s a very innocent character. She is kind of oblivious to a lot of the things that are happening around her,” Cutts said. “She’s this key figure, but she doesn’t realize it.” Cutts’ favorite scene from the show is also the last scene. She said it stretched her as an actor.

“The first few rehearsals, I would laugh so hard I’d start crying and my face would be bright red … Now it’s great, I’m locked in, and it’s a fun ending. It definitely leaves the audience thinking,” Cutts added.

She said she hopes that after seeing the show audience members learn to love the arts and have a different perspective, because this show is different than what they’ve (the cast) ever done.

Lady Spielsdorf will be played by senior Sophia Smith. Smith said the most challenging aspect of playing her character is figuring out how to portray two emotions during the court scene.

“When my husband, the general, dies, there is this court scene and I have to act sad, but also conflicted, because he was a very evil man,” Smith explained. “So, I have to explore how to act in grief, but also act in a little bit of relief.”

Smith said she has enjoyed seeing everything come together and all the special effects. She added that one of

• Resident Jeff Johnson expressed his concerns about taxes. Johnson said the city portion of his property taxes went up by 25% and questioned whether the city is spending its money wisely or not. He said the city is only focused on The Rookery now, and community events are only hosted through it. Next, Johnson mentioned the city’s new public works building and was curious to how it will cost the city $16 million. Resident Angela Coil also expressed her concerns about the public works building. She said back in February, the project was estimated to cost $16 million, but is now estimated to cost around $31 million. Coil asked how and why the project cost doubled in six to seven months.

• In September, the property at 7253 Fall Drive was found to be in violation of City Code Section 1009.22 (7) due to a pest infestation. The property owner agreed to an assessment agreement authorizing the city to enter the property, abate the nuisance and assess the cost to the property. According to city staff, this agreement allowed for a more efficient abatement process. Work on the property is currently underway, and the cost will be assessed to the property for taxes payable in 2026. The staff report estimates the assessment amount to be approximately $887, including attorney and certification fees. The City Council ultimately adopted a special assessment for the public

her favorite moments from the show is when she and her scenemate, Piper, share a hug during the court scene.

“It’s just a very monumental moment, like the climax,” she said.

Playing Carmilla will be senior AJ Basara. Basara’s favorite thing about playing Carmilla is the fact that she is a vampire.

“People normally ask this question as an icebreaker: ‘If you were a mythical creature what would you be?’ My answer my whole entire life has been a vampire,” she said. “So, this is a very personal show for me because it’s playing a role that I’ve always wanted to be.”

She added that the most interesting part about playing a vampire is the way she has to hiss. Basara said she has to hiss in a way that is noticeable to the audience, but also in the face of the person she is directing it toward.

Basara’s favorite scene from the show is when she gets in the general’s face and yells at him about justice. She said it’s Carmilla’s breakthrough.

“It’s when the audience gets to see who she truly is and what her purpose of being in that house is,” she explained.

Svea King, a senior, will play Milarca. Milarca is also a vampire.

“Milarca is a very cartoonish, witch character … I’ve been having playing how to walk with a cane and how to have a really shrill voice,” King said. “Trying to do the voice and projecting it has been a struggle because we were trying to be breathy because I’m so old.”

Her favorite moment from the show is when Carmilla bites Laura for a second time.

Opening night is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the

nuisance abatement.

• Lindsay DeMartino has been appointed to the Accounting Clerk II position following council approval. The starting wage for DeMartino will be $32.56 an hour, which is step 2 of a 7-step wage scale for the position. DeMartino’s first day will be Monday, Dec. 8.

• City staff will apply for a Local Road Improvement Program grant for the extension of Otter Lake Road following council approval. The extension of Otter Lake Road is identified in the city’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan as an arterial roadway that will provide access to the city’s commercial and industrial corridor along I-35E. The Otter Lake Road Master Plan was completed in December 2022. On Aug. 14, 2023, the council authorized the preparation of plans and specifications for phase 1, which will connect Otter Lake Road to 24th Avenue/Elmcrest Avenue. Construction is proposed to begin in spring 2026. The project’s estimated cost, included in the city’s capital improvement plan, is approximately $12.3 million for roadway, utility and stormwater management improvements.

• The city will enter into a grant agreement with Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) for the improvement of publicly owned infrastructure following council approval. MCES has identified the city as a contributor to excessive inflow

Centennial High School Performing Arts Center. Other performance dates include 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7.

For more information about the show, go to centennialtheatre.org.

Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@ presspubs.com.

IF YOU GO:

is justice?’

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4; 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 (Understudy show); 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7

Where: Centennial High School Performing Arts Center

Details: Centennial High School performs “Carmilla: Reckoning by Vampire.” For tickets, visit centennialtheatre.org.

and infiltration (I/I) and eligible to receive grant funding. I/I is clear water, stormwater and groundwater that enters the wastewater system. It overloads the system, impacting system capacity. The city applied to MCES for grant funding in 2023 with estimated project costs for public sanitary sewer system improvements to reduce inflow and infiltration. The MCES will contribute one-half of the actual amount of eligible expenses during the grant activity period up to an estimated preliminary minimum allocation of $50,000.

• The Andall Street Culvert project will be completed by Dimke Excavating of Lino Lakes after the council accepted its quote of approximately $88,925. The project includes replacing a culvert and two catch basin structures along Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) Ditch 10-22-23 on Andall Street and cleaning out a skimmer structure on Blackbird Lane. The culvert replacement project is permitted through RCWD, which is the ditch drainage authority. As the roadway authority, the city is required to replace the culvert. The culvert will be installed per the as constructed and subsequent improved condition identified by RCWD. The substantial completion date for the project is March 21, 2026. The final completion date for the project is May 31. Funding for the project is through the surface water utility fund.

The next City Council work session will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, followed by a regular City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Madeline Dolby

CORRIE’S HOUSE: Offers safe haven for trafficked teens in north metro, state

FROM PAGE 1

According to the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office, Minneapolis is one of the top locations in the U.S. for child sex trafficking. A six-month study by local prosecutors found more than 34,000 advertisements posted online for sex in the Twin Cities. But sex trafficking is not just a Twin Cities problem. Trafficking affects people from all parts of Minnesota.

“People think it is not happening here … They think it is a city problem,” Boehme said. “But with the internet now, and with phones, there are no boundaries.”

Approximately 10 years ago, Boehme says it happened to someone who lived on her street. A young girl was being trafficked while living at home, and her parents had no idea anything was going on until she attempted to take her own life.

“Luckily, she didn’t succeed, and then the parents were able to get her help … It took a couple of years for her, but she had two loving parents with resources to help her. Today she has got her college degree, she’s married and she’s got a little baby and she’s thriving,” she recalled. “I was able to see the trauma and the devastation to her family and to her, but I was also able to see the resilience and where her life is now, and how happy she is, and I thought every youth deserves that opportunity of people who care about them and can get them the help they need.”

That’s where Corrie’s House comes

CITY BRIEF

Lino seeks input from residents in communitywide survey

The city of Lino Lakes has launched a community survey to gather residents’ input for strategic planning initiatives and to align goals around the community’s top priorities. The survey will capture residents’ opinions on the

in. The home, nestled in a residential area of Oakdale, will offer a safe and stable place that is trauma-informed and victim-centered. The wrap-around services include case management, individual and group therapy, chemical dependency counseling, educational programming, physical health care needs, mental health support, life skills learning, job skills development and employment opportunities, as well as survivor services, family reunification counseling and support.

“We are trying to give them a voice for the first time in their lives,” Boehme said. “Our hope is that by the time they leave, they are empowered with the skills to continue forward.”

Program Director Jodi Bond added, “It is really about choice, choice, choice for them… giving back their autonomy and their choices since they have been so controlled,” she said.

Bond was hired in September. She was five months into retirement after working in Ramsey County Corrections for 35 years when she heard about the position.

“I just felt it was a calling. This has always been my heart work,” Bond said. “I feel like my entire career has led me to this point … There is such a demand for places like Corrie’s House to open up to help these youth who have been so traumatized.”

The six-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot home is equipped with a “thrive” room where survivors can meet with social workers or decompress; a living room, kitchen, laundry room, “zen den” and therapeutic gardens.

economy, mobility, community design, utilities, safety, natural environment, inclusivity, engagement and other elements of the city’s overall livability.

The results from the survey will show Lino Lakes’s strengths, areas of improvement and what matters most to residents. The city will also be able to see how its performance compares to other communities across the country. The city plans to use the results from the

Bond says she not only wanted to help transform the lives of youth but also wanted to be a part of mentoring staff who have a passion for what they do. “It's really, really hard, and it takes a special person, and so to be that manager that really promotes their self-care and worklife balance and understands secondary trauma and how to be able to take care of yourself so you can come your whole self to work each day.”

Come Dec. 1, there will likely be several applications on their desks. “We were told day one we would have 75 to 80 applications on day one,” Boehme explained. Her hope is that the community becomes more informed on the issue, understands that it is not just a “city” issue and develops a compassion for the youth.

“I look at these youth as the most vulnerable and exploited population of our time. The only way we can help solve this is to get informed so that we can help prevent it and then understand the difficult circumstances these kids are under,” she said.

“No little girl or boy dreams at night

BY THE NUMBERS

About 40% Over 50% 13

that this is what they want to do. They don’t wake up in the morning and say, ‘Gosh, this is what I want to do for a living.’ They are forced into it. They are manipulated … So, if they don't have somebody in their corner fighting for them, it's almost impossible to get out of it.”

For more information about Corrie’s House, visit https://corrieshouse.org.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

of sex trafficking cases involve minors of exploited adults were first trafficked as children the average age of a child who is trafficked advertisements posted online for sex in the Twin Cities in six months

SOURCE: MINNESOTA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE

survey in its upcoming strategic plan.

All residents aged 18 and older are asked to visit https:// polco.us/LinoLakes2025OP and complete the survey. Responses are anonymous. For more information, contact the city at 651-982-2400 or by visiting the city’s website at linolakes.us. The survey closes on Monday, Dec. 8.

Bradley J. Barott

March 31, 1956 — November 12, 2025

Brad passed away at his home in Lino Lakes on November 12, 2025, at the age of 69. He was the third generation to own and operate Barott Drilling Services. Brad is survived by his mother, Darlene; two children, RaeLynn & Joe (Brooke); three siblings, Brian (Cindy), Bruce (Sandy), Barb (Dan) Jagunich; and special friend, BK, along with many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Gary. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 25th from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Hugo American Legion Post #620, 5383 140th St. N. Come raise a glass, tell a joke or share one of the many Brad stories we know are out there! In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the ALS Association or Team Gleason; both organizations provided support to Brad and his family.

MUELLER-BIES 651-784-3390

www.muellerbies.com

RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN:

FROM PAGE 1

The campaign started in San Francisco in 1891 when Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee collected coins in a soup kettle to fund a Christmas dinner for the area’s poor. This year, the Red Kettle Campaign will last through Christmas Day. There are 260 locations across the north metro that are participating in this year’s campaign. Funds raised during the campaign stay in the local community. Crowell said donations from the campaign goes “under the umbrella of food, shelter and care.”

“Whatever someone’s needs are, if they need to visit the food shelf, we’re able to purchase food at an affordable break from our partners so that we can provide as much food to as many households as we can. If somebody is needing help paying utility or paying rent, we would have some funding to be able to support those types of programs,” she explained.

The Northern Division of the Salvation Army includes Minnesota and North Dakota. In total, there are about 15,500 bell ringing volunteers across the division. In the Twin Cities, there are approximately 12,400 volunteers during the campaign.

“We are so blessed that we have a lot of volunteers that come back year after year. So many volunteers make it their Christmas tradition,” Crowell said.

Stories from the kettle

Arden Hills/Shoreview Rotarian Mark Stange has been coordinating the Rotary’s involvement in the campaign for over two decades. He said a group of Rotarians have been bell ringing since the early 2000s. On Wednesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 4, a group of about 18 Rotarians will be bell ringing outside the Cub located in Arden Hills.

Stange said one memory continues to stick out over the 23 years he has been bell ringing.

“There was a woman walking out with her grocery cart, following this 5-year-old boy. He goes ‘Mom, wait!’ and he digs in his (blue) jeans pocket and pulls out a coin and puts it in the kettle,” he said. “It blew me away.” He added that it is cool to see who donates to the

campaign, and it’s heartening to see. Stange said the Rotary coordinates with a volunteer group from Mounds View High School for students to come help ring during the Rotary’s shift.

Hange’s favorite part about bell ringing is the tradition, “seeing the youth, in particular, keeping the tradition alive. It’s a Christmas tradition as much as it is a fundraiser.”

North Oaks resident Jim Bowyer has been participating in the Red Kettle campaign for nine years with the Kiwanis Northeast Metro Golden K Club. This year, 18 Kiwanis club members will ring bells outside the Cub in Arden Hills.

One moment that sticks out to Bowyer is when he was bell ringing in Roseville. He said a car was driving by and the driver put on his brakes and flashers, got out of the car and put a donation in the kettle.

Bowyer continues to volunteer every campaign, because doing so contributes to the community and helps those in need.

“It’s a time in my life where I have the opportunity to volunteer and help others. So why not?” he said. “You get a real sense of community and helping others by

BY THE NUMBERS

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Humble Roots Boutique

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 7095 CENTERVILLE RD CENTERVILLE MN 55038

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business. HRB Enterprise, LLC 7095 CENTERVILLE RD CENTERVILLE MN 55038

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: November 6, 2025

Signed: Tiffany M Downing

Published two times in the Quad Community Press on November 25 and December 2, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA

SECRETARY OF STATE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Pay Attention Project

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 161 Woodridge Lane Lino Lakes, MN 55014

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business. Pay Attention! Project 161 Woodridge Lane Lino Lakes, MN 55014

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: November 13, 2025

Signed: Stephen Kahat, treasurer Published two times in the Quad Community Press on December 2 and 9, 2025.

reaching out and volunteering. I’ll keep doing it as long as I can.”

Shoreview resident Tom O’Brien and Chas Jensen, from St. Paul, continue to bell ring together every campaign because it spreads cheer and raises money for the good things the Salvation Army does for the community.

“When I read about the Salvation Army helping out somewhere where there is a need, it makes me feel connected to it,” O’Brien said. “The smiles, dances, songs and conversations are so much fun.”

Jensen said he continues to sign up every year because the previous year was so much fun and the response from people is always positive.

“It’s good for me to see someone walk up to the door with the weight of the world on their shoulders and suddenly be confronted with us,” Jensen said. “At the very least, the big smile that crosses their face is worth it.”

Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

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We’re seeking a Certified Salon Manager who loves developing people, leading a team, and creating smiles for kids and families.

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Submitting Public Notices

Including Foreclosures, Certificates of Assumed Name, Liens, Probates and all other Public Notice Requirements

Deadlines:

White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press by 5:00 p.m. Thursday prior to publication date.

Quad Community Press, Shoreview Press and The Citizen by 5:00 p.m. Wednesday prior to publication date.

Early deadlines apply on most holidays

Counties of Ramsey and Anoka

Contact: E-Mail: Call:

Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn Legals@presspubs.com 651-407-1200

4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110, www.presspubs.com, 651-407-1200 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COPS&COURTS

The Centennial Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• An officer was dispatched Nov. 19 to a phone call regarding fraud in the 7000 block of Centerville Road in Centerville. No money was lost or taken.

• Officers took a walk-in report Nov. 19 in the 800 block of Civic Heights Drive in Circle Pines regarding identify theft. The incident is under investigation.

• Police conducted a traffic stop Nov. 20 near the intersection of Lake Drive and Griggs Avenue in Lexington.

• Police were dispatched Nov. 21 to a two-vehicle property damage accident near the intersection of Lexington Avenue and Lovell Road in Lexington. No injuries were reported.

• Officers conducted a traffic stop Nov. 22 near the intersection of Lake Drive and Lexington Avenue in Lexington. The driver was ultimately arrested for fourth-degree DWI.

• A community service officer received a complaint Nov. 24 about the dumping of furniture in the 100 block of South Drive in Circle Pines.

• Officers initiated a traffic stop Nov. 24 near the intersection of Lovell Road and Lexington Avenue in Lexington after observing multiple violations. The driver was given a verbal warning.

• Officers were dispatched Nov. 24 to a report of theft in the 0 block of Village Parkway in Circle Pines. The

incident is under investigation.

• Police responded Nov. 24 to a theft report in the 0 block of West Road in Circle Pines.

The Lino Lakes Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• An officer responded Nov. 17 to a report of a suspicious vehicle in the 7200 block of Stage Coach Trail that had been abandoned. After investigation, it was found the vehicle’s battery was dead. The owner of the vehicle arranged for a private tow.

• An officer responded Nov. 17 to a call regarding suspicious emails received by the complainant in the 600 block of Town Center Parkway. The officer investigated and determined the documents were related to an ongoing civil matter.

• Officers responded Nov. 17 to a delayed report of a possible sexual assault in the 500 block of Apollo Drive. The investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded Nov. 18 to a traffic complaint in the 7600 block of Lake Drive involving a vehicle pulling a trailer without brake lights. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the vehicle.

6200 block of Hodgson Road. The investigation is ongoing.

• While on patrol Nov. 19, an officer observed suspicious activity in the 6100 block of Otter Lake Road. The officer investigated and ultimately arrested an adult male for a gross misdemeanor traffic offense.

• Officers responded Nov. 19 to a domestic assault in the 0 block of Elm Street between a male and female. The female was subsequently arrested for domestic assault.

• An officer responded Nov. 20 to a report of a possible threat in the 300 block of Elm Street. The officer determined there was no immediate safety concern. The investigation is ongoing.

• Officers responded Nov. 20 to a report of a suspicious vehicle on the street in the 2000 block of Norway Lane. Officers observed the vehicle was unoccupied and legally parked. Officers made contact with the reporting party and advised them of their findings.

property damage crash near the intersection of Birch Street and 20th Avenue. No injuries were reported and both vehicles were towed due to disabling damage.

• While on patrol Nov. 22, an officer stopped a juvenile male walking on the side of the road in the 6700 block of Hodgson Road. The officer provided a courtesy transport for the juvenile to their home and made a parent aware of the interaction.

• An officer and fire personnel responded Nov. 22 to an illegal burn in the 6100 block of Hodgson Road. The officer and fire personnel located a fire slightly larger than what ordinance permits, and the homeowner was advised of the legal fire size.

• While on patrol Nov. 23, an officer conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Interstate 35W and Lake Drive on a vehicle for multiple violations. The driver was slow to stop for the officer, but eventually stopped in another city. The driver was released on scene.

• Officers responded Nov. 21 to a report of a disorderly student in the 7500 block of Fourth Avenue. The officers provided a courtesy transport for the student to his residence and he was left in the care of a parent. The student was charged with disorderly conduct.

• An officer responded Nov. 18 to a report of an Amazon package found in the ditch in the 300 block of Lilac Street. The officer contacted the property owner, who will pick up the property. The package was brought to the police station for safekeeping. Officers responded Nov. 18 to a delayed report of burglary in the

• An officer was dispatched Nov. 23 to respond to a roadway in the 6800 block of West Shadow Lake Drive to assist a motorist with locating their lost dog. The dog was located at a nearby residence and reunited with the owner.

• Officers responded Nov. 21 to a report of suspicious activity involving door locks that had been changed in the 6400 block of Lakota Trail. The incident is ongoing. An officer and fire personnel responded Nov. 21 to a two-vehicle

• An officer was dispatched Nov. 23 to take custody of a stray dog that arrived in the caller’s yard in the 1500 block of Lamotte Drive. The dog had no collar or tags, and was transported to an animal care center, where it was found to be microchipped.

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Demonstrate fire safety this holiday season

The National Fire Sprinkler Association is looking to raise awareness on fire safety and fire sprinklers this holiday season.

“More home fires occur between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day than during any other week of the year. Fire sprinklers give people the precious time they need to escape and firefighters the chance to do their jobs safely. Seeing the difference side-by-side makes it clear why they’re such a valuable part of home safety,” said Sean Flaherty, chair of the National Fire Sprinkler Association Minnesota Chapter.

The association provided these fire safety tips for the upcoming season:

• Water live Christmas trees daily and dispose of them soon after the holidays.

• Keep candles and space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.

• Turn off holiday lights before going to bed or leaving the house.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working properly.

• Never leave cooking unattended. Most holiday fires start in the kitchen. For more information about fire sprinklers, how they work and access to additional resources and information, visitwww.nfsa.org.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Invictus Brewing Co. closes its doors

Once Upon a Child opens in Blaine

Invictus Brewing Co., in Blaine, will close its doors on Sunday, Dec. 21. In a social media post, the business said they were trying to relocate, but due to the cost of real estate, ingredients and supplies, it is no longer feasible. The Tipsy Steer, located within the same building, will remain open.

Invictus Brewing is located at 2025 105th Ave. NE. If you have questions, email info@invictusbrewingco.com.

Once Upon a Child has officially opened in Blaine. Once Upon a Child offers gently used clothing, shoes, toys, books and baby gear for children from newborn through youth sizes. Families can shop for the essentials, or they can bring in gently used items for cash. The store is located at 4325 Pheasant Ridge Drive NE.

CHURCH BRIEF

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church puts on lutefisk dinner

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, in Circle Pines, will host its fourth annual lutefisk dinner on Saturday, Dec. 6. Dinner will be served at 4 and 5:30 p.m. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is located at 1 North Road. For more information, go to stmarkcp.org.

SPORTS BRIEFS

Leather & Laces hosts Bottle Bash

The Leather & Laces adult synchronized skating team will host a Bottle Bash from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 at Roddy’s Bar & Grill, located at 2541 7th Ave. E, St. Paul. The event will include multiple 50/50 raffles, bottle raffles and a chance to win grand prizes. The event helps raise funds for the team’s competitive season, which will kick off at the University of Minnesota’s Ridder Arena Dec. 12-13. Team members range in age from 22 to 58. Skaters hail from White Bear Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Blaine among other cities.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Centennial has started the season 1-2. Delano beat the Cougars 74-51 in the opener Nov. 20, notching eight 3-point shots and 22 steals. Addie Iverson tallied 22 points and Abbie Pietila 19. Abby Sears scored 13 for the Cougars. Centennial pulled out a 55-52 win over Shakopee last Tuesday with Sydney Schmitz netting 16 points, Kaylin Green 11 and Amelia Delmedico 11. For Shakopee, Ellie Quast hit 14 points and Alexis Breeden 13. Chaska edged the Cougars 79-76 Friday at Hamline as Kara Moger and Addi Schneider each tallied 27 points. For the Cougars, Green netted 19 points, Kate Lee 16, Schmitz 16, and Delmedico 11.

BOYS HOCKEY

Centennial lost its first three games — to Stillwater 3-2, Prior Lake 6-4 and Mahtomedi 6-3 — before getting into the win column against Eastview 8-3 on Saturday. Joey Hemr led that win, scoring his first four goals of the season. Jacob Homicke, Tanner Dittrich, Eddy Dropp and Isaac Adams notched a goal each, Gavin Cunningham had three assists and Quinn Gould made 21 saves. Cunningham has three goals and Adams and Nick Carls two each. Gould has an .815 save percentage.

GIRLS HOCKEY

No. 2 ranked Holy Family won a duel over No. 3 Centennial/Spring Lake Park 2-0 on Saturday in Victoria. The Cougars (5-1-1) beat River Cities 3-2 the previous Saturday and Osseo/Park Center (OPC) 10-0 on Tuesday.  For Holy Family (6-0), goalie Kayla Swartout stopped 32 shots while Taryn Richter and Katya Sander scored. Against River Cities, Alaina Gnetz, Madeline Wolter and Melanie Reff had goals and Kaia Weiland made 35 saves. Scoring against OPC were Gnetz (three), Mia Sutch (two), Annabelle Buccicone (two), Katie Ball, Brooke Ueland and Wolter. Bruce Strand

Cougar coach Diggins retires; tenure included a state title

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Mike Diggins, who has spent most of his life associated with Centennial football, will be just a Cougar fan from now on.

Diggins announced last week that he has retired from coaching after 15 years as head coach, 37 years on the staff and 45 years total in coaching.

Two years after reaching the apex of coaching with his Cougars winning the Class 6A championship, Diggins, 61, called it a career.

“After last season, I decided this (2025) would be my last. It’s time to spend more time with my wife and family,” Diggins said.  “I also want to fish in the fall .... I never fished in the fall after football started. It was just time.”

Diggins was a three-year starter at running back and defensive back for the Cougars himself, under coach Mike Watson, graduating in 1982.

He joined the Cougar coaching staff while attending the University of Minnesota and was part of the 1984 state runner-up team. He was head coach at St. Anthony in 1987 and 1988, then an assistant at Mora for two years before returning to Centennial and joining Watson’s staff in 1991. He became head coach job in 2010 when Watson retired.

Diggins’ final team was 9-2 with two playoff wins before losing to Moorhead, the eventual state runner-up to Edina, the team Centennial beat 28-27 in the 2023 Prep Bowl. His composite record was 84-63 with five district championships and eight appearances in section finals.

Asked what Centennial’s identity was during his tenure, he told the Minnesota Star-Tribune: “If you ask our kids, ‘Who are you?’ they’ll go, ‘We’re blue-collar. We’re blue-collar kids that are going to hit you.’”

Cougar football is a family affair as Michael

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Diggins Jr., a former star running back for the Cougars and Wisconsin-River Falls, has been the team’s defensive coordinator since 2017 and runs the weight-lifting program. And Diggins’ wife Kelli is mom to the football team as well.

“Kelli does so much for our program ... Laundry for our uniforms, including personal laundry for players that need her. She organizes all of our team dinners including finding donations for those team dinners. She provides support for our managers and coaching staff.  She works with our equipment vendors and even does some light work in the equipment room. “  Diggins also coached sophomore baseball since 2014 and the girls hockey team from 2001-11. Diggins leaves the program in “real good shape,” by his assessment. “Our numbers are really up. We have a good relationship with our youth program. The coaching staff is one of the best in the state. We have strong administration support and I believe the best parents in the state.”

Looking Ahead for SPORTS

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2—vs. Maple Grove

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4—vs. Elk River

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9—at Rosemount

BOYS BASKETBALL

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2— at Roseville

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4—at Elk River

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9— at Burnsville

GIRLS HOCKEY

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2— vs. Elk River

7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5— at Maple Grove

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9—vs. Champlin Park/Coon Rapids

BOYS HOCKEY

7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2— vs. White Bear Lake

7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4— at Anoka

2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6—at Blaine

DANCE TEAM

6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3— at Andover

WRESTLING

7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5—vs. Anoka

9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6—at Coon Rapids

BOYS SWIM & DIVE

6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5—at Anoka

6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9— at Irondale

GYMNASTICS

6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5—at Champlin Park

Alaina Gnetz, who transferred to Centennial from Woodbury for her senior year, has made a big impact with ten goals and six assists in the first seven games for the Cougars (5-1-1). The 5-foot-5 forward skated for Woodbury the past three seasons, compiling 80 goals and 53 assists. She was a StarTribune all-stater last year, recently signed with MinnesotaDuluth and has been named to Team USA for the U18 world tournament in January. She played for Team USA earlier this year against Canada.

LEXINGTON CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

•

•

over 54 properties.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at City Hall.

CIRCLE PINES CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

• Amendments will be made to the city’s personnel policy to comply with the Minnesota Paid Leave Law (MNPL) effective Jan. 1, 2026, following council approval. The city will participate in the state program, splitting premium costs 50/50 with employees, and MNPL leave will run concurrently with other applicable leave laws. Eligibility and benefit amounts are determined by the state. Employees may potentially receive up to 20 weeks of combined medical and family leave per benefit year.

• The city will pay the sixth pay voucher for the 2025 street rehabilitation project following council approval. According to City Administrator Patrick Antonen, the pay voucher is approximately $124,634. There is one more pay voucher left, he said. In total, the project cost approximately $2.4 million.

• Around 125 people attended the Environmental Family Fun Night, according to Council Member Meagan Bachmayer. The event was

held at the Centennial Library and featured a visit from the University of Minnesota Raptor Center, a story time and more.

• The council adjourned to a work session to discuss the garbage contract and more.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at City Hall.