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Westonka schools earn Top 5 state ranking for second year
The Westonka School District has secured a top-five position in state rankings for the second consecutive year, according to the latest Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment results, further cementing its reputation for academic excellence. Mark Femrite, assistant superintendent for Teaching and Learning, announced that Westonka ranked third in the state for reading and math, and fourth in science. Notably, Grade 3 led the state in both reading and math, while Grade 5 achieved a number one ranking in science and Grade 6 claimed the top spot in...
Arrests, sentencings, fire calls for Sept. 26
Wright County Sheriff arrests: • John Allen Brummer, 62, of Rosemount was arrested in Monticello Sept. 16 on charges of carrying a firearm in a public place without a permit and possession of a firearm while impaired. • Matthew York Chandler, 43, of Monticello was arrested in Monticello Sept. 17 on a charge of fifth-degree controlled substance. ...
City of Medina selects four finalists for city administrator position
The Medina City Council selected four finalists from among 11 semifinalists for the position of City Administrator. The finalists are Newport City Administrator Joseph Hatch, Long Lake City Administrator Scott Weske, Medina Finance Director and Interim City Administrator Erin Barnhart and Clearwater City Administrator Annita Smythe. Mayor Kathleen Martin said she was very happy with the quality and caliber of candidates who applied for the position and all finalists have extensive experience directly applicable to the needs of Medina. She said the entire council looks forward to meeting the finalists individually for interviews. Jeff Weldon of GMP Consultants handled the search for Medina. He said the city received 25 applications of which 11 semifinalists were reviewed by the City Council. The Council then selected four finalists. Final interviews with department heads and the City Council are slated for Oct. 2.
Historic sign restored at Union Cemetery
Long Lake residents and travelers along Wayzata Boulevard may have noticed a striking change in recent weeks. The Union Cemetery sign has returned, its bright white letters popping against a deep black background, bringing a nostalgic touch back to the community. But this isn’t just any sign—it’s a piece of local history, recently restored thanks to the efforts of a familiar name. Shortly after Birch’s on the Lake first opened its doors next to the cemetery in late 2015, the sign took a hit. It...
Gillespie Center asks Orono to raise contribution
After instituting new leadership earlier this year, the Gillespie Center has undergone substantial changes, with Director Rhonda Nelson requesting increased financial support from Orono during the Sept. 9 city council meeting. Nelson asked the council to raise Orono’s annual contribution from $9,500 to $12,000, as part of a broader strategic plan to reverse financial losses, grow membership, and expand programming. “We were going in a downward trend and operating in the red, and it was clear we needed a refresh, a rebranding, and a new...
Anderson ready to fight again at age 65
Now that former heavyweight champion George Foreman is retired from the boxing ring, another wave of senior fighters is on the rise. Medina’s Rick Anderson, who owns Rumble Boy Gym, is leading the drive to make prize fighting a lifetime sport. Last week he signed a contract to box against Marty “The Wolfman” Lindquist in the main event of a card in Northwood, Iowa Saturday, Dec. 14. The winner will...
Last Chance To Try Candy Cloud’s September Specialty Drinks
September is here, and Candy Cloud is celebrating the change of seasons with their newest collection of specialty drinks that locals can’t get enough of!. I'm always on top of the new menu items local restaurants drop, so don't mind me if I sound really excited over these fall-inspired drinks.
Historic English Gothic "Pillsbury House" in Minneapolis Hits Market for $2.8 Million
History enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike can now own a piece of Minneapolis history. The English Gothic-style mansion known as the Pillsbury House, built in 1913 for businessman Charles S. Pillsbury, is listed for $2.8 million. This city-designated historic landmark spans an impressive 20,652 square feet, offering a glimpse into the opulence of a bygone era.
LOVE: Minnesota Shelter Saved From Closure by Anonymous Donor
With winter weather encroaching (no really, it's bound to happen), our state's most vulnerable citizens will need a warm and safe place to stay. A shelter with a bed is one of those bare-minimums that can save a life. A shelter in Minneapolis was set to permanently close in just...
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