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VOL. 16 NO. 27 www.readthecitizen.com $1.00

VICTORY NUTRITION: Forest Lake couple brings healthy option to Hugo PAGE 3

‘Tis the season for the reason When Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conduct traffic stops, they usually ask drivers if they know why they were pulled over. Occasionally, motorists do know why they were pulled over. Quite often, the conversation includes an excuse offered by the motorist.

As yet, however, deputies haven’t documented whether they then ask motorists why they even offer an excuse, since the result has historically been a foregone conclusion. The most likely excuse for the excuse is probably a campaign to reduce or eliminate the fine. To date, there has been no recorded history of a citation or arrest being overturned due to a creative excuse. With the passing of the “hands-free” law, deputies have new reasons to pull motorists over, and motorists have new excuses for their behavior.

January • A Coon Rapids woman, 58, was cited at 10:09 a.m. Jan. 12 on westbound Egg Lake Road N. and Fountain Avenue N. for speeding 48 mph in a 35 mph zone after eastbound deputies clocked her on radar when she didn’t slow down at the reduced speed zone. The motorist told deputies she was on her way home because her daughter was having a baby.

She also admitted to deputies that she didn’t know the speed limit in the zone.

A

s each year comes to an end, it is a tradition of The Citizen to take a look back at some of the most memorable stories from the year. Some of the 2019’s highlights included: The Hugo Fire department purchasing a new aerial engine, The Post Restaurant moving into Legion Post 620, Joe Marier turning 100, Rosemary Apartments getting the OK from the council, the White Bear Lake Area Schools bond referendum being approved by voters and much more.

YEAR IN REVIEW

SEE YEAR IN REVIEW, PAGES 9-12

• A Chisago City woman, 20, was cited at 5:46 p.m.

Jan. 29 in the 14000 block of northbound Forest Blvd. N. for semaphore violation after she blew through a red light at Frenchman Road without slowing down. Deputies were right behind her in the squad car, but she could not have seen them because her rear windshield being covered with snow. The motorist, SEE TIS THE SEASON, PAGE 8

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JANUARY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

Olympian on (lake) ice

BY DEBRA NEUTKENS WHITE BEAR EDITOR

An Olympic figure skater graced an outdoor ice rink on White Bear Lake recently, bringing a film crew along to capture the experience.

The celebrity skater, Michelle Kwan, was a surprise guest to Chad and Nicole Whiterabbit of Mahtomedi, who were referred by a friend to the film crew, F3 Visuals.

F3 is a Minneapolis cinematography company that specializes in aerial (drone) footage. It is the same company that filmed a Mahtomedi High School grad, McQuaid Boo, skating on crystal clear ice near Ramsey County beach earlier this month. The video, called LaCroix on Ice, went viral. Last we checked, it had 175,000 views. Somehow Kwan saw it on Instagram and since she was in the area, decided to do her own version of skating on White Bear Lake. Only she was wearing figure skates.

At least, that's the story told by Chad Whiterabbit, who got a call from a friend asking if his rink was shoveled because Michelle Kwan was coming.

Kwan, 39, retired from competitive skating in 2006. She won two Olympic medals, a silver in ’98 and a bronze in ’02, plus five world championships.

She was very courteous, Whiterabbit said, and an incredible skater. “You couldn't even hear her edges.”

The cold temperatures were a little edgy, though, and Kwan was freezing. So Whiterabbit set up a heated ice shelter as a warming house.

“Ice conditions were really good,” added Whiterabbit, which was a reason Kwan and the crew came to his rink. And yes, it was shoveled; all three of his children play hockey and practice on the lake.

The production crew used a drone, like they did in the LaCroix video, to film Kwan, who indicated she planned to post it on her Instagram account. They filmed in 10-minute

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intervals from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15.

Temperatures were in the single digits, so Kwan took breaks to warm up. Whiterabbit said the crew did it pro bono because they're big fans.

Just a day earlier, the celebrity skater was in Des Moines campaigning for Joe Biden. The Des Moines Register said Kwan “gave some free pointers to ice skaters Saturday morning” in downtown Des Moines “before gliding effortlessly into a pitch” for the former vice president. She joined his presidential campaign as surrogate director, a job she did in a similar capacity for former presidential nominee Hillary Clinton's campaign.

According to Whiterabbit, Kwan came to the Twin Cities to visit Marty Collins, the son of the late Tom Collins, a professional skater who founded the Champions on Ice tour. The elder Collins died at his Edina home in September.

Kwan starred on his tour along with former ALL PHOTOS SUBMITTED Olympians Brian Boitano, Nancy Kerrigan and Members of the film crew watch on the sidelines next to a Kristi Yamaguchi.

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Kwan came in the house for hot water for tea and posed with the Whiterabbit children for a photo: (from left) Lauren, Lauren Kwan, Kwan Ryan and Colton.

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THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

3

Victory Nutrition shakes Hugo

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM EDITOR

Sat. 5:00 – 6:00 pm

CHURCH OF ST. PIUS X 3878 Highland Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN

651-429-5337

Tara Ball makes a shake for a customer. Each shake serves as a complete meal, contains 21 vitamins and minerals and 17-24 grams of protein, and has fewer than 250 calories.

Jon and Tara Ball, Forest Lake residents, opened Victory Nutrition in December in Hugo.

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Victory Nutrition is located at 14849 Forest Blvd N (next to Sager’s Liquor). This month, Victory Nutrition will be open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. and on most Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Mon. -Fri. 8:00 am, Wed. 6:30 pm First Sat. 8:00 am, Sat. 4:00 pm Sun. 8:45 & 10:30 am & 7:30 pm

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

PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Victory Nutrition co-owner Tara Ball (left) socializes with new customer KC Chartrand, who is a Hugo resident. Chartrand found out about the business after finding it on Facebook.

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HUGO — When looking for a new location for a nutrition club, Forest Lake residents thought Hugo would be a great fit.

Tara and Jon Ball opened Victory Nutrition, located at 14849 Forest Blvd N (next to Sager’s Liquor) in December.

“There is nothing here, so we really wanted to bring a healthy option to the Hugo community,” Tara explained.

Tara, a registered nurse, got started on the Herbal Life products 18 years ago before her sister’s wedding in hopes of losing weight. “I had amazing results. It’s not typical, but I lost 27 pounds in seven weeks. I went from a size 14 to a size 6,” she said.

“I felt amazing. I had great energy and I felt really good.”

After hearing many success stories like hers, Tara was intrigued to help others accomplish their health goals. She started a small in-home business selling Herbal Life products and in 2008 opened a nutrition club called Shake the Weight in Wyoming (it closed in 2010). Tara was working part time in labor and delivery, but eventually gave up that role so she could dedicate more time to her clients.

Jon was also drawn to the products after he was asked to be a best man in a wedding. “I was 235 pounds and got a call from my friend, who said I was going to be his best man in a beach wedding in Cancun in 90 days,” he recalled. “I hung up the phone, ran upstairs and asked Tara to start me on a program right away. I lost 35 pounds in 15 weeks.”

Jon was always supportive of Tara’s efforts and the products themselves but didn’t get involved until 2009 when he lost his job after the economy crashed. He opened his club, Urban Energy, in Minneapolis, which closed in 2013. The couple then opened The Loop in Forest Lake from 2013-2015 before they took a break so they wouldn’t miss out on their four children’s activities and sports.

Tara and Jon’s job is to help their clients fi nd a nutrition program that is right for them and their goals. They can help you maintain weight, lose weight or gain weight. The program consists of a combination of shakes, Herbal Energy Drink (green tea and herbal blend) and aloe.

“Our fi rm belief is that people want to be healthy and they want it to taste good,” Tara explained. “(Visiting the club) is a great way to sample the products and it’s a great fast food for healthconscious minded people. We want to be a healthy, nonalcoholic ‘Cheers.’”

The flavors of shakes include white chocolate peanut butter cup, chocolate caramel cheesecake, cinnamon roll, double chocolate mocha, banana caramel and more. Each shake serves as a complete meal, contains 21 vitamins and minerals and 17-24 grams of protein, and has fewer than 250 calories.

The teas also have a variety of flavors. These include lemon, raspberry, peach, green tea, chai, cinnamon, pomegranate and more. Each serving of tea (5 calories) can jump-start metabolism, provides antioxidant support and has 85 mg of caffeine.

A combo in the store (shake, tea and aloe) runs $8-10. Customers can save money by purchasing the products to make at home. The cost typically run around $150 for 60 meals, Tara said.

The Balls hope to one day expand to another location close by, possibly in the Centerville or White Bear Lake area.

This month, Victory Nutrition will be open Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. and on most Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information or product demonstrations, visit www.victorynutritionhugo.com or fi nd Victory Nutrition on Facebook.

4

THE CITIZEN

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JANUARY 2, 2020

The road is calling and I must go

I

am borrowing a headline from a former coworker who wrote a final column before leaving for graduate school in Montana. She paraphrased a quote from naturalist John Muir in a letter to his sister that read, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” I really liked that headline. Only I have replaced the word mountains with road. My apologies to Muir and any semblance of plagiarism.

After 13 years with Press Publications and three years as editor of the White Bear Press, I am retiring from the world of full-time work.

My days at the Press started as a Feeling part-time proof reader. That lead to Inspired doing obits and student news, which into a staff writer position. I’ve Debra Neutkens grew worked on the Quad Community Press, the Forest Lake Press, The Citizen in Hugo and finally the White Bear Press, our flagship paper and subliminally my goal all along. I still handle obits; it was a duty I didn’t want to delegate.

I am proud of my tenure with the White Bear Press and its storied, 125-year history. Without this community newspaper, or any newspaper for that matter, there would be little recorded history. Social media certainly doesn’t provide a newspaper clipping for grandma to hang on her refrigerator door.

I am a dinosaur in this world of Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. I refuse to embrace social media because I feel conspiratorial hints at invasions of my privacy. Luckily the (much) younger members of the news team happily post stories and monitor sites for chatter, making up for my reluctance. To put this in better perspective, I started my journalism career on a manual typewriter. That’s how old I am. How things have changed.

I have helped tell the stories of fascinating people, covered countless government meetings, edited and rewritten hundreds of obituary notices and answered thousands of emails. Finding content to fill the paper every week has never been a problem. The stories often come to me.

Heading up this gem of a community paper has been interesting and fun. Well, almost always. There are occasional disgruntled readers or something that requires correction, despite our very best efforts at accuracy. Sometimes, I admit, I’ve wanted to run screaming out of a council chambers when a meeting is particularly long and boring. It’s odd really, to think I started this business as a college intern for my hometown weekly. I’ll never forget a school board meeting where the main topic of discussion was cheerleaders’ skirts. I have come full circle.

I leave the newsroom in capable hands. Our dedicated staff of talented millenials are passionate about community journalism and spreading real news.

There is nothing fake about our mission.

Although I’ll be stepping down as lead editor here at Press Publications, I have been asked to stay on as a contributing writer so my byline will still appear.

Fortunately I can work from anywhere with WiFi so I won’t be disappearing completely. Neither will stories on the lake level lawsuit headed to the Supreme Court in 2020, a case I’ve followed since 2012.

I agreed to part-time hours because I worry a bit about being bored in retirement. I’ve worked since I was 15 after all and I’m used to it. It’s probably a silly notion since there seem to be myriad activities for seniors. I do have a bucket list. Maybe I’ll finally learn Spanish. And then there’s travel.

With a son and son-in-law serving active duty in the military, our children move around the country.

Instead of coming to us, we will go to them. The road beckons and I must go. ¡Hasta luego! (see you later) And all the best in the New Year!

Debra Neutkens is the editor of the White Bear Press.

Distributed bi-weekly in: • Hugo • Centerville • Lino Lakes

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Press Publications does not endorse or evaluate the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content. Press Publications reserves the right to refuse, reject, or cancel any ad for any reason at any time without liability.

What it takes to hold power accountable

G

ood government depends on a system of checks and balances. Those who govern and those who administer the government know they are answerable to the citizenry of the community.

Citizens hold government accountable through the information they are provided by the watchdogs who make up the Fourth Estate – the press.

Often in our small communities we elect good people who then hire competent and good-intentioned civil servants. Our governments run smoothly, taxes are reasonable, and services are provided cost-effectively. However, too frequently we hear the stories of trust abused and violated. That is why we need a strong, attentive and respected press that provides a common source Movers & of trusted information to citizens.

Today that vital link between Shakers the governors and the citizens is threatened as Facebook, Google, Reed Anfinson Craigslist, and other websites drain the advertising revenue f from newspapers. They could care less about good government or informed citizens – particularly in small town, rural America.

As we lose community newspapers, we face a very real threat to the future of citizen knowledge and the ability to keep a watchful check on government. It takes power and influence to hold those in power accountable.

If you don’t meet them on equal footing, your chances of getting responses to questions evaporates.

Newspapers have influence in their communities and with government for five primary reasons: • Community-wide reach Newspapers have a deep reach among citizens in their communities. Elected leaders know that a story printed in the newspaper will circulate throughout the towns and rural areas. Subscribers will share stories with friends and family.

We also have our online presence, but print’s reach is deeper, more inclusive and more visible in a community. This reach goes far beyond what your

circle of friends on Facebook, or other social media, provide.

• Trusted source of information Survey after survey has found that local, small-town newspapers are the most trusted source of information in their communities. Local newspapers are seen as a fair, reasoned voice, especially in this internet and social media age of vitriolic divisiveness.

One of the reasons we are trusted is because people in the community know us and feel they can give us direct feedback if they think we are being unfair or slanted in the news we write.

• Financial strength When a newspaper is financially healthy, it has the ability to challenge power when it would frustrate the public’s right to know.

Through our years of reporting we have seen public officials who have tried to hide information because of financial mistakes, self-serving enrichment, embarrassment, or fear of public reaction. We have seen public officials who act as if the public information in their care is theirs to decide who can see it and who can’t.

• We’re always on duty We show up – day after day, month after month, year after year. The public officials know that we will be at every meeting writing stories about what is discussed.

We will follow up, reminding citizens of past successes, as well as misdeeds.

• Knowledge of the law Our knowledge of the laws that govern public officials such as the Minnesota Open Meeting laws and laws that dictate public access to government documents ensures transparency and accountability. The average citizen can easily be told by public officials that government has the right to keep documents private, or that meetings can be closed for “executive sessions.” We know better.

Reed Anfinson is publisher of the Swift County Monitor-News in Benson, Minnesota, and president of the National Newspaper Association Foundation.

THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES • Limited to 350 words.

• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

• Letter writers are limited Carter C. Johnson ............ Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson .... Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm .............. Editor citizennews@presspubs.com Debra Neutkens ..... Managing Editor reporter@presspubs.com Patty Steele ....Director of Sales & Marketing marketing@presspubs.com

to six letters per year and 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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writer about the same subject editing. matter will not be published. • Deadline is 5 p. m. , Wednesday • Submissions containing libelof the week prior to publication. ous or derogatory statements • To submit a letter, e-mail it to will not be published. citizen@presspubs.com, • Submissions containing facts fax it to 651-429-1242 or not previously published in mail or deliver it to Press The Citizen must be accomPublications, 4779 Bloom panied by factual verification. Ave., White Bear Lake, MN • All letters are subject to 55110.

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JANUARY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

POLITICAL BRIEF

5

WEEKLY WAG

Tri-County DFL Senior Caucus At the fi rst meeting of the new year, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Jan. 7, the Tri-County DFL Senior Caucus will welcome Jill Chisholm from Moms Demand Action (MDA). MDA is a grassroots movement of Americans fi ghting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence. As a retired educator, Chisholm focuses on our most vulnerable citizens, our children.

The presentation is from BeSMART, the educational wing of the organization that is focused on practical tips and strategies for assuring gun safety in homes where children are present. Chisholm’s associate, Dan Hildebrand, will also present to raise awareness of the importance of protecting children from guns.

Residents who live in eastern Anoka, southern Chisago or northern Washington county are invited to attend. The meeting will be held at Vannelli’s by the Lake, 55 Lake St. S., Forest Lake. For more information, contact Caucus Chair Sandy at 651-492-1149.

Brodie has been looking for a family since March. He is a neutered 2-yearold pointer lab mix, weighs around 50 pounds, and is a big goofball. He is house-trained and crate-trained.

Brodie would do well with a family that can match his energy and zest for life. His effervescence may be overwhelming for other pets or small children, so he would do best with those who can match his energy.

Brodie likes to play fetch, go for long walks and keep his brain sharp by doing puzzle toys. He is a smart pup who is treat-motivated and willing to learn new tricks or sports such as agility, dock diving or frisbee.

If you are interested in adopting Brodie, fi ll out an application online at ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, a placement coordinator will be in contact with you as soon as possible.

SUBMITTED

COUNTY BRIEFS Washington County Christmas tree drop-off sites When the holiday season is over, recycle Christmas trees by dropping them off at one of the available yard waste drop-off sites in Washington County. Tree stands, plastic bags, tinsel, wire, lights and all other decorations must be removed before drop-off.

This year, residents may use the newly opened county Northern Yard Waste site at 5527 170th St. N. in Hugo. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays through March. It is free to use for all Washington and Ramsey county residents. Private waste haulers, cities or townships may also accept Christmas trees. Residents should contact sites directly for more information.

Salvation Army will provide services to homeless The Salvation Army will provide services to those in Washington County who could become homeless, after the county board agreed Dec. 17 to provide the organization $113,504 to support those services. The money is to be used through Sept. 30, 2021.

In 1993, the Minnesota Legislature established the Family Homelessness Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP) to assist families with children, youth/unaccompanied youth and single adults who are experiencing barriers to housing stability. This program is conducted through the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency; funds are awarded on a biennial basis. The funds will be used to serve approximately 64 households with rent and damage deposit payment assistance to prevent homelessness.

County will work with Washington Conservation District Washington County will continue to work with the Washington Conservation District that provides technical assistance

and educational services to promote and apply soil and water conservation practices throughout the county.

The county board approved a $260,000 contract for 2020 with the agency Dec. 17.

The contract is for the same amount as in 2019 and will provide partial funding for the organization’s administrative activities and services in the areas of local water management, land and water treatment and public education. Included in the agreement is funding for the East Metro Water Resources Education Program.

County board sets 2020 budget, levy

Community Corrections, was recognized by the Association of Minnesota Counties at its conference in early December.

Washington County Community Corrections is one of two sites in the nation creating a new way to deliver probation services to adult offenders using Dosage Probation. The model was first developed through a collaboration with The Center of Effective Public Policy and a judicial district in Milwaukee.

Dosage probation relies on an offender’s internal motivation to change behavior.

The offender can shorten the time they are under probation supervision by actively participating and completing programming to reduce the likelihood of future criminal behavior. The model is more efficient and cost-effective than the traditional model of supervision in which probationers are sentenced to years of supervision with or without behavior change conditions.

Those offenders who have Dosage Probation have been released from probation earlier than would have been the case with earlier programs. National Institute of Corrections (NIC) has adopted Dosage Probation as one of its major initiatives in 2019 and has sponsored Washington County to train correctional professionals from around the country to embrace this intervention.

The Washington County Board of Commissioners set the county’s 2020 budget and levy Dec 17.

The board certified: • A tax levy of $115.7 million for county operations, capital and debt service; • The Washington County Regional Rail Authority levy of $660,000; • The board consented to the property tax levy set by the Washington County Community Development Agency at $5.42 million.

The board has been reviewing the 2020 recommended budget since late summer. This levy amount is estimated to produce a reduction in the county tax rate. Expenditures for 2020 adopted by the county board total $281 million. Of that, $227 million is operating expenditures, $38 million is capital project funds and $15.9 million is for debt service.

Archives of the webstreamed meetings at which the board members discussed the budget are posted on the county website at co.washington.mn.us. Budget presentations may also be viewed on the website by using the search word “budget.”

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office received $2,000 from Walmart, which commissioners formally accepted Dec. 17.

The money will be used to support Shop with a Cop, an initiative that provides a fun-filled day for children in need while creating positive relationships with law enforcement.

Washington County’s Dosage Probation program wins statewide award

Washington County Board begins negotiations with administrator

Dosage Probation, a program piloted

by Washington County’s Department of

The board also agreed Dec. 17 to begin negotiations with Kevin Corbid, the

Sheriff’s Office receives $2,000 from Walmart

NAMES IN THE NEWS Richard Cooper, of Ramsey, and his father-in-law Francisco Vargas, of Hugo, arrived at the Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities’ kitchen on Thanksgiving morning. For the past five years they have picked up, delivered and served turkey dinners and all the trimmings to 70 guests at the Edgerton high-rise apartments in St. Paul. Together with their spouses, they’ve enjoyed conversations with residents they have come to know.

This year, 55 volunteers served 274 guests in the Men’s Campus dining room and 80 volunteers transported and served Thanksgiving dinner to 1,105 individuals at 19 St. Paul highrise apartments. In addition to the hot dinner on Thanksgiving, earlier in the week 4,200 bags of groceries, each including a frozen turkey, potatoes, canned vegetable and mixes to feed a SUBMITTED family of five, were distributed from Richard Cooper of Ramsey (left) and Francisco Vargas the St. Paul Campus. The mission’s of Hugo prepare to pick up food for 70 guests at the goal was to reach 60,000 people over Edgerton high-rise apartments in St. Paul. the holiday.

county’s deputy administrator, to serve as the county’s next administrator.

Current administrator Molly O’Rourke has announced her retirement at the end of January. Corbid has worked for Washington County since 2001 and has served as deputy administrator with O’Rourke since 2012.

At the county board meeting, Angie Nalezny, human resources director, set out for the board the options it has in replacing O’Rourke. There is no state law that governs the process other than that the board appoint an administrator. The board could do an extensive outside search, post the position internally or appoint directly.

The last option is generally chosen when a succession process has been put in place, the organization is going in the right direction, and the board wishes it to continue in that direction.

Commissioner Fran Miron (District 1) spoke in favor of moving forward with appointing Corbid. He said there is no need to search elsewhere, as there has been good succession planning and Corbid is ready to take on the role of administrator. The board will hire on training, experience and administrative qualifications, Miron said. “Our deputy administrator is more than capable of taking on the position,” he said. Other board members said that they were in agreement with Miron’s position.

Sheriff’s Office will receive funds for narcotics task force The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will receive $90,000 from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs, for funding the Washington County Narcotics Task Force.

The county board accepted the money Dec. 17. It will be used to reimburse the Sheriff’s Office for personnel expenses from the sergeant who oversees the task force in 2020.

CHURCH BRIEF New Life hosts blood drive New Life Church – Lutheran (LCMS) in Hugo will host its annual blood drive from 12:30 to 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10. Simply download the American Red Cross blood donor app, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. New Life Church is located at 6000 148th St. N.

COMMUNITY BRIEF A century of civic engagement The League of Women Voters (LWV) of White Bear Lake Area, in partnership with the Stillwater Public Library and the St. Croix Valley branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), will present a travexling exhibit and speaker highlighting the history of the LWV in our area.

The exhibit will run from Jan. 2 through Jan. 20 at the

Stillwater Public Library. It features Minnesota’s suffrage story, highlighting the women who made it happen and who continue to lead through the LWV to make democracy work for all. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, come hear Dr. Kristin Mapel Bloomberg, a professor of women’s studies, talk about the history of women’s suffrage in Minnesota. The exhibit and presentation are both free to attend.

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THE CITIZEN

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JANUARY 2, 2020

HUGO, CENTERVILLE AND LINO LAKES

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’ When: 12:30 p.m.

Thursdays, Jan. 2, 16 and 30; and the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre – Located east of Hwy. 61 on County Road 8 at the east end of the Hugo Public Works Building.

Details: Games begin promptly at 12:30 p.m.

Refreshments and coffee will be served. All senior citizens from the area are invited. Join us and bring a friend.

Contact: Barb at 651-429-0883 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com

naturalist for monthly presentations that include local natural history information and possibly a relaxing stroll on the trail. Registration not required. This month’s topic is winter tree identification.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

HUGO SR. CLUB

When: 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20 and the 3rd Monday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre – Located east of Hwy. 61 on County Road 8 at the east end of the Hugo Public Works Building.

Details: Join to provide input and discuss plans for 2020. Various games played after the meeting.

Refreshments served.

Join us on Thursday, Jan. 23 to learn how to play Pinochle, which we would like to add to RED CROSS BLOOD monthly activities.

DRIVE Contact: Barb at When: 12:30-6 p.m. Friday, 651-429-0883 or Jan. 10 barbconnolly1958@ Where: New Life yahoo.com Lutheran Church, 6000 148th St. N., Hugo SNOW DAY Details: Visit When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1- Jan. 25 Where: Wargo Nature 800-733-2767) to make an Center, 7701 Main St., appointment or for more Lino Lakes information.

Details: Free family fun event with ice LUNCH WITH A fishing, cross-country NATURALIST skiing, Norweigian When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. kicksledding, Wednesday, Jan. 15 snowshoeing, crafts, Where: Wargo Nature live animal shows Center, 7701 Main St., and refreshments. No Lino Lakes registration needed and Details: Seniors 50+ can equipment provided. bring a lunch and join a Contact: 651-429-8007

Top 5 at PressPubs.com: For the year: 2019 Editor’s note: Visit presspubs.com to read the full versions of these most-visited stories

1. Two White Bear brothers dead in apparent murdersuicide. White Bear Press > News 2. Matthew’s Family Restaurant abruptly closes its doors. Quad Community Press > News 3. 25-year-old man dies from vehicle crash. White Bear Press > News 4. Report of suicidal male ends in tragedy. The Citizen > News 5. Paws to Read pal passes away. White Bear Press > News See Press Publications’ website presspubs.com for stories from the White Bear Press, The Citizen, Vadnais Heights Press, Shoreview Press, Quad Community Press, The Lowdown-Forest Lake Area and The Lowdown-St. Croix Valley Area.

CRIBBAGE When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27 and the 4th Monday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre in Hugo – Located east of Hwy. 61 on County Road 8 at the east end of the Hugo Public Works Building.

Details: All senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding areas are invited to join us for an afternoon of Cribbage.

Coffee and refreshments will be served.

Contact: Alice at 651-429-4413

NEIGHBORHOODS NEARBY ‘SEUSSICAL, JR.’ When: 7 p.m. Thursdays, Jan. 2 and 9; 7 p.m.

Fridays, Jan. 3 and 10; 1 and 4 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 4 and 11; 2 p.m.

Sundays, Jan. 5 and 12 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details:Watch Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage. Tickets $20/ adult, $10/child.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

DROP-IN DISCOVERY STATIONS: OWLS UP CLOSE When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 4 Where: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Rd., White Bear Township Details: Experience up-close visits with animals, touchable artifacts, activities and outdoor explorations.

Free.

Contact: ramseycounty.us

4TH ANNUAL EXCELLENCE IN PREACHING SYMPOSIUM When: 12:30-3:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 4 Where: St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi Details: Public is invited to a free symposium led by freelance theologian from Two Harbors,

FILE | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Winter Farmers Market When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 Where: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Rd., White Bear Lake

Minnesota, Anna Madsen. For anyone interested in learning how to give a great sermon.

Contact: 651-762-9103 or saintandrews.org

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5 Where: Rice Lake Elementary School, 575 Birch St., Lino Lakes Details: Hike paved trails and neighborhood streets, approx. 5 miles.

Contact: stpaulhike.com

BOOKSMOVEME YOGA STORYTIME When: 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 6 and the fi rst Monday of the month Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Children 6 and under and caregivers can explore the learning possibilities of combining movement with stories and discover new techniques to practice at home.

Details: Local food vendors and community booths, as well as a class. Nov. 9 class is on fermentation.

Contact: forksinthedirt.com

Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org

TRI-COUNTY DFL SENIOR CAUCUS LUNCHEON When: 12:30-2 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 7 Where: Vannelli’s By the Lake, 55 Lake St. S., Forest Lake Details: Hear guest speaker Jill Chisholm from Moms Demand Action, who will discuss practical tips and strategies for assuring gun safety in homes where children are present. Open to residents in eastern Anoka and northern Washington county.

Contact: 651-492-1149

LIES WE TELL OURSELVES When: 5:50 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 8 Where: Geise Memorial Library, 26855 Forest Blvd., Wyoming Details: Mary Jo Meadow, Ph.D., leads free talk about the unconscious ways we distort our

perception to keep ourselves feeling better.

Registration appreciated but not necessary.

Contact:resecum@msn. com

TEDTALKS DISCUSSION GROUP When: 11:30-1 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 9 Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St. Details: Bring a bag lunch and watch a video on “ideas worth spreading.” This month’s topic is what you should know about vaping and e-cigarettes.

Free; registration recommended.

Contact: 651-724-6007 or rclreads.org

LET’S MAKE STUFF When: 2-3:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 9 and Saturday, Jan. 18 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Free creative class for adults. Make Folk Art Pincushions on Jan. 9 and Relief

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Event details are subject to change. Please contact the event organizer to verify information prior to attending.

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entirely new. Tickets $25-$35.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

4-H ENVIRONMENTAL CLUB When: 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 18 and the 3rd Saturday of the month Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: New club for youth in kindergarten through one year post high school focus on environmental education through hands-on learning experiences. Older youth have leadership opportunities. Free.

Contact: z.umn.edu/ Eclubs

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. HOLIDAY BREAKFAST

FILE | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Centennial Sports Arena Open House When: 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 4 Where: Public open house to celebrate the new addition and renovation of the sports arena.

Open house includes open skate from 10:30 a.m.-

Printmaking on Jan. 18.

Registration required.

Materials provided.

Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org

AUTHOR EVENT WITH TRACY MAURER When: 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Jan. 11 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Local author Tracy Maurer will read her newest picture-book biography, “Samuel Morse, That’s Who!”, answer questions about books and writing, and lead kids ages 6-12 in a fun “Decode-A-Thon” to read messages in Morse Code.

Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org

TRIVIA AT THE LIBRARY When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11 and 25 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Join a professional trivia host

for an afternoon of fast paced fun, with topics including everything from Minnesota culture to history, music, art and geography.

Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org

MN NORTH METRO DOWN SYNDROME PARENT GROUP When: 6-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13 Where: St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1 North Rd., Circle Pines Details: Connect with other families and celebrate people with Down Syndrome. Light meal and child care provided. RSVP. Contact: northmetro@ dsamn.org

‘CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE WOMEN’S VOTE: A MIDWEST PERSPECTIVE’ When: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 15 Where: Stillwater Public Library, 223 4th St. N. Details: Hear a talk

noon, JV boys hockey game at 1 p.m., Community Dedication Ceremony at 2:50 p.m., varsity boys game at 3:05 p.m. and Centennial High School Alumni game at 5:30 p.m.

on the history of women’s suffrage in Minnesota given by Dr. Kristin Mapel Bloomberg, Professor of Women’s Studies and Hamline University Endowed Chair in the Humanities. See the traveling exhibit featuring Minnesota’s suffrage story, highlighting the women who made it happen and who continue to lead through the League of Women Voters to make democracy work for all.

Contact: lwv-wbla.org

and an Emmy nod.

Tickets $25-$35.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

WINTERFEST When: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18 Where: Sunrise Park, 6918 Sunrise Dr., Lino lakes Details: Community event with ice skating, live DJ, giant bonfi re, s’mores, hot cocoa and food available for purchase.

Contact:linolakes.us/ parks

JOHN BEASLEY AND FRIENDS

THE BARLEY JACKS

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Performance by accomplished pianist, composer and distinctive arranger who works regularly with famed musicians and in fi lm and television, earning five Grammy nominations

When: 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 18 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Masters of the fiddle, guitar, bass and drum who meld their divergent backgrounds of blues and bluegrass, classical and Celtic, R and B and bebop to inspire each other and create something

When: 7-9:30 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 20 Where: St. Peter’s United Church of Christ 111 Orleans St. E., Stillwater Details: Hear broadcast keynote speaker Eric Holder, former Attorney General. Breakfast served. Funds to benefit UNCF Minneapolis Area office. Registration required; $5.

Contact: 651-439-2160 or MLKBreakfast.com or stpeterstillwater.org

PARENT-CHILD SNOWSHOE TREK When: 10-11:30 a.m.

Monday, Jan. 20 Where: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Rd., White Bear Lake Details: Go off-trail with a naturalist guide, follow animal tracks and discover hidden homes in the snow. Youth ages 4+ with adult. $12.38/ adult-child pair; $7/ person snowshoe rental.

Contact: ramseycounty. us

VOYAGER: GOING WHERE NO ONE HAS GONE BEFORE When: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 25 Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake Details: Space St. Croix leads all ages program about the Voyager spacecraft and the historic missions that visited Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune and are still transmitting data back to Earth each

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day. Limited to 30 kids on a fi rst-come, fi rstserve basis.

Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org

SAINTS OF SWING SWING DANCE When: 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 25 Where: St. Joseph of the Lakes Catholic Church, 171 Elm St., Lino Lakes Details: Free dance lessons with Carol Brecht-Wiles at 6:15 p.m. and music from 7 to 10 p.m. Admission $12/ adult and $8/student (under 21). Tickets available at the door; include two beverages (beer, wine or soda).

Contact: mystjoes.me

BEEKEEPING BASICS When: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26 Where: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Rd., White Bear Lake Details: Learn about basic bee biology and ecology, beekeeping tools and equipment, the costs associated with beekeeping and resources available in the Twin Cities. Also honey tasting. $25/person.

Contact: ramseycounty.us

‘WHAT’S HAPPENING’ CALENDAR GUIDELINES Anyone in the community may send us news of an upcoming local event. The calendar is reserved for secular community events in or adjacent to Press Publication’s coverage area.

Priority is given to free or affordable events that are likely to appeal to a broad audience. Publication of events is subject to editorial discretion.

Due to space limitations, there is no guarantee whether, when or for how long submissions will be published. Submissions are subject to editing.

Please include date, time, location, cost, brief details, and contact information for each event submission. Submission deadline is Wednesday prior to the following weeks’ publication. Call 651-407-1226 with questions.

Online: presspubs.com/ calendar Email: calendar@presspubs.com Mail: Press Publications Attn: Calendar 4779 Bloom Ave. White Bear Lake, MN 55110

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JANUARY 2, 2020

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THE CITIZEN

www.readthecitizen.com

JANUARY 2, 2020

TIS THE SEASON: No excuse for causing an incident on the roadways in 2019 FROM PAGE 1

who was traveling slower than the speed limit, told deputies she had recently been involved in a 360-degree spinout and crash, so she was “scared” of stopping. She was issued a verbal warning for failure to provide proof of insurance and rear window obstruction.

February • A Hugo man, 25, was cited at 4:05 p.m. Feb. 22 in the 5000 block of eastbound Frenchman Road for tabs that expired in June 2018 and verbally warned for violating a corrective lens restriction and not having a driver’s license in possession. The driver told deputies he believed that after one year of not paying registration he was no longer required to pay for his tabs. As to the nonexistent driver’s license, the driver stated that he had lost it and had yet to apply for a new one. He presented his passport to deputies instead.

March • A Hugo man, 45, was cited at 5:42 p.m. March 10 in the 4000 block of 130th Street N. for speeding 70 mph in a 55 mph zone and verbally warned for failing to update the address on his driver’s license. Deputies on routine patrol on southbound Forest Blvd. N. at 125th Street N. observed the subject traveling on northbound Forest Blvd. N. at a high rate of speed and clocked him on radar. The driver told deputies he had to drive fast to get the snow off his car.

• A Stillwater man, 23, was cited at 2:21 p.m. March 17 on westbound 170th Street N. at Forest Blvd. N. for speeding 69 mph in a 55 mph zone by eastbound deputies on rolling patrol. The motorist said he thought he was driving 65 mph, but was “having issues with several functions of his vehicle.”

• A Mahtomedi man, 34, was cited at 5:31 p.m. March 26 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for speeding 67 mph in a 45 mph zone. Deputies on routine patrol observed him traveling westbound on Frenchman Road and pass another vehicle unsafely.

The motorist nearly cut off another vehicle and got extremely close to another. When asked why he took his time stopping for deputies, the subject said he didn’t want to pull into his child’s day care and have his child see him stop for deputies. He said he had no reason for speeding. He was also verbally warned for unsafe passing.

• A White Bear Lake woman, 18, was cited at 6:42 p.m.

March 27 in the 12000 block of northbound Forest Blvd. N. for driving after suspension and passing on the right after southbound deputies on routine patrol observed her use the right turn lane to pass a leftturning vehicle. During the traffic stop, the subject told deputies she didn’t happen to have her license on her as she had just renewed it and didn’t have the white paper copy with her. After a quick computer verification, deputies discovered the motorist was suspended. The subject said she didn’t believe she was suspended and that it was a mistake.

• A Hugo woman, 33, was cited at 10:43 a.m. March 29 on Heritage Parkway and Eminence Avenue for speeding 35 mph in a 30 mph zone. The motorist told deputies the reason she drove over the center line was that she had the flu and was coughing.

April • A Hugo woman, 83, was cited at 11:00 a.m. April 1 on 157th Street N. and Farnham Avenue N. for tabs that expired in July 2018 after deputies on directed speed patrol in the 4000 block of Heritage Parkway N. spotted her tabs. The motorist said that she had leased the vehicle for the past two years and thought the dealership was responsible for the tabs.

• A local youth was cited at 7:21 a.m. April 8 in the 15000 block of Eminence Avenue N. for speeding 37 mph in a 30 mph zone by deputies on stationary patrol. The youth, who admitted to going “10 over,” said he was late for volunteering at his mom’s work.

The youth had also received another motor vehicle citation one month prior.

• A Grant man, 24, was cited at 3:42 p.m. April 16 on 170th Street N. and Henna Avenue N. for not wearing a seat belt, after being pulled over for not displaying a rear bumper or rear license plate. As deputies observed the motorist, they noted the unused seat belt hanging by the door. The subject said his license plate must have fallen off. He did not have an explanation for the missing bumper.

May • A Lino Lakes man, 30, was cited at 3:31 p.m. May 28 in the 6000 block of Egg Lake Road N. for speeding 48 mph in a 35 mph zone after deputies noticed the vehicle in front of them gradually increase speed from 35 mph to 48 mph. The driver, who had a lengthy history of speed and moving violations, told deputies he was aware of the limit but was having problems with his eyes.

June • A Stillwater Township man, 19, was cited at 3:08 p.m.

June 24 in the 14000 block of Fitzgerald Avenue N. for failing to stop at the stop sign on eastbound upper 146th Street N. before turning right onto southbound Fitzgerald Avenue. The driver, who pulled himself over, said he “rolled the stop sign a little bit” due to the fact he was driving a manual transmission.

• An unidentified adult male was arrested at 3:15 p.m. June 25 in the 5000 block of 147th Street N. after he drove around the Speedway gas station to avoid deputies conducting traffic; he then headed southbound on Forest Blvd. N. without using a turn signal. A National Crime Information Center check showed the driver with a canceled license and ignition interlock. The subject told deputies he wasn’t driving the vehicle with ignition interlock because it was being fixed.

• A Stillwater Township man, 37, was cited at 11:14 p.m. June 30 in the 12000 block of southbound Forest Blvd. N. for driving after suspension, failure to change address on driver’s license and failure to provide proof of insurance after being pulled over by northbound deputies whose suspended license alarm on their automatic license plate reader went off. The motorist told deputies he thought he’d taken care of his prior citations.

July • A Hugo woman was cited at 4:26 p.m. July 26 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for driving after suspension, failure to provide proof of insurance and failure to change address on driver’s license after deputies on stationary patrol received an alert from their automatic license plate reader when the subject’s vehicle passed. The motorist told deputies that although she didn’t have proof of insurance on her, she was insured with Progressive. However, when deputies checked with Progressive, they were told the subject had a policy up until April but never renewed it.

• A Circle Pines woman, 36, was cited at 1:53 p.m. July 27 on westbound 170th Street N. and Henna Avenue N. for speeding in a 55 mph zone by eastbound deputies on stationary patrol who clocked her at 73 mph. The motorist told deputies she was in a hurry because she had to pee.

August • An East Bethel man, 51, was cited by southbound deputies on routine patrol at 8:23 p.m. Aug. 11 on northbound Forest Blvd. N. and 159th Street N. for speeding 51 mph in a 35 mph zone and for semaphore violation. While deputies had the radar gun trained on the motorist, they simultaneously were able to observe the speed at which he ran the red light.

Deputies had to turn around and conduct a traffic stop to retrieve the license plate number, as it was hidden behind the boat towed behind the vehicle. The driver’s excuses for speeding and running the red light were as follows: “I thought the speed limit was 45 and at the light I had a choice to make and I made it.” Deputies quickly advised the motorist that he was spared even bigger trouble because when deputies first spotted him speeding, he had just passed the construction cones and was no longer within the construction zone.

• A Stillwater woman, 21, was cited by westbound deputies at 7:49 a.m. Aug. 17 in the 6000 block of eastbound Egg Lake Road N. for speeding 48 mph in a 35 mph zone. The motorist asked deputies if she was going a little fast, and told them she had to get home to Stillwater and then to work in Minneapolis by 9 a.m.

September • The driver of a Ford Escape was cited at 12:57 p.m.

Sept. 8 on southbound Highway 61 just south of Frenchman Road for driving after suspension.

Deputies received an automatic license plate reader alarm when her vehicle passed. The motorist told deputies that she had a lot of tickets, was on the

payment plan and was entitled to regain valid status.

Deputies quickly assured her that her status was still suspended.

October • A Minnesota husband was cited at 10:43 a.m. Oct. 12 in the 5000 block of westbound 140th Street N. for tabs that expired in November. The driver told deputies it was his wife’s car and that the registration task must have slipped through the cracks.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 4:44 p.m. Oct. 22 in the 14000 block of southbound Everton Avenue N. for tabs that expired in April and dark window tint by deputies on routine patrol who were sitting at the red light at Frenchman Road and Forest Blvd. N. The traffic stop was conducted because of the “extremely dark window tint.” The driver said he had originally forgotten about the tabs, then remembered, then forgot again. Deputies’ tint enforcer showed 16% light emitting from the subject’s windows. The driver said that when he got the windows, he was advised they were 25% light-emitting. Deputies stood their ground, because they’d had their Tint-O-Meter tested before and after their shift that day. The motorist was also verbally warned for not possessing proof of insurance.

• A music listener was cited at 8:57 a.m. Oct. 29 in the 14000 block of southbound Forest Blvd. N. for cellphone use while driving after northbound deputies observed her activity at the red light. The driver told deputies she knew why they had stopped her and that she was changing the music on her phone.

November • A Minnesota driver was cited at 10:39 a.m. Nov. 3 on westbound Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. for speeding 35 mph in a 30 mph zone by east-facing deputies operating stationary radar who clocked him at 39 mph. The driver said she was late for church.

• A distracted driver was cited at 4:34 p.m. Nov. 5 on westbound Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue for using a wireless communications device while driving. Deputies driving beside him noticed him holding his phone at steering wheel level. Deputies further observed the driver appearing to scroll or push buttons on his device. The driver said he was aware of the hands-free law and had just taken his phone out of his pocket to give to his passenger. When deputies noted that his passenger on her own phone, they asked the driver why she would need to be given his phone while underway when she already had her own phone. The passenger piped up, “Maybe he didn’t know I had mine.”

• A dump truck driver was cited at 3:54 p.m. Nov. 8 on Frenchman Road at Victor Hugo Blvd. for semaphore violation after deputies with the right of way to turn left and proceed east on Frenchman Road were nearly hit by the eastbound dump truck. During the traffic stop, the dump truck driver said he did not want to stop because he “was loaded” and did not want to “screech his tires.” When deputies asked the driver if he was unable to stop for red semaphores if he believed he was traveling too fast, he said no.

He needed to get this load to its destination before it cooled, he said.

December • A Minnesota driver was cited at 3:57 p.m. Dec. 1 in the 4000 block of westbound Frenchman Road for not wearing a seat belt after eastbound deputies on routine patrol waiting at the semaphore observed the beltless driver. Deputies noticed his vehicle so covered with snow that his brake lights and rear license plate were not visible. The driver said he was just on his way to work and that he had brushed his vehicle off earlier in the day.

• A woman was cited at 5:28 p.m. Dec. 7 in the 13000 block of southbound Forest Blvd. N. for disobeying a semaphore after eastbound deputies on Frenchman Road waiting at the red light to turn north observed her run the red light. After the light turned red for southbound and northbound traffic and green for eastbound Frenchman Road traffic, our motorist continued through the intersection on the red light. During the traffic stop deputies noted a pair of glasses on the top of the driver’s head and a corrective lens restriction on her license. The driver stated that she was not sure why it was there and did not need glasses to drive.

2020 www.presspubs.com

THE CITIZEN

JANUARY

Roasting by the fire

A developer that is known for its hotels is interested in downtown Centerville— not for a hotel, but an apartment complex.

Representatives of Truline Construction, of Monticello, visited the joint Planning and Zoning Commission and Economic Development Authority (EDA) meeting Jan. 16 to have an informal discussion regarding their vision for the city-owned property located on Centerville Road near Sorel Street in Centerville.

Chris Harchanko, a Realtor with Apollo Properties and a project estimator/manager for Truline Construction, explained the vision is for a three-story apartment complex with 63 units and approximately 1,600 square feet of retail space. The apartment is proposed to include “mid-scale to upper mid-scale” one- and two-bedroom units with “above-average amenities.” The proposed retail could be anything from a coffee shop to a gym.

Patrick the peacock sightings in Hugo FILE PHOTO

Despite ominous weather forecasts and temperatures in the single digits, sunshine and lack of wind created favorable conditions for a day of outdoor activities that included kick-sledding, trail rides on fat tire bicycles and campfire marshmallow roasting during the annual Snow Day event at Wargo Nature Center Saturday, Jan. 26.

In the Jan. 17 issue of The Citizen, we asked for your help to photograph the peacock seen in various people’s backyards over the summer. Many sightings were reported to us. Patrick lives with his family near the Hugo Public Works Building.

Pine Tree Apple Orchard Established 1904 Northeast of WBL off Hwy. 96

Happy Holidays!

651-429-7202 94 Years “The Right Choice” 845 East Cty Rd. E. Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 651.429.8000 7641 Lake Drive Lino Lakes, MN 55014 651.784.8000

www.fmbank.biz

Celebrating 75 Years of Community Business in 2020!

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New aerial engine checks off all the boxes

75 Years ars

FEBRUARY

MARCH

American Leigon Post 620 dishes up ‘The Post’

Vincenzo Catering: A true family endeavor

American Legion Post 620 patrons will soon find many more homemade options on the menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Next month, Chris and Emily Salerno, of Mounds View, plan to open their restaurant, The Post, inside the Legion.

Some signature items will include Post toast, Post kettle chips, Post burger, Post sauce and baked rigatoni. The plan is to be open for breakfast on both Saturdays and Sundays and to also serve lunch and dinner during the week and on weekends.Customers can enjoy their food either in the bar atmosphere, or a more family-oriented setting on the banquet side of the building.

The Salernos will also operate a catering business. It will feature various packages, including Italian, deli sandwiches, all-American, New Orleans and fine dining for fancier occasions. The business is also pairing up with Ca’s Creations for cakes.

After nearly 30 years in business, two sisters made the tough decision to retire the longtime family business. Hugo residents Toni Fedorchak and Tracie Charpentier ran Vincenzo Catering together for 16 years. Before that, Charpentier and the women’s mother, Mary Colonna, ran the business for 13 years.

Centerville Lions Club Ice Fishing Contest

JDog assists Florida family on ‘Military Makeover’ Josh Helm, district partner for JDog Junk Removal & Hauling Twin Cities, recently traveled to St. Petersburg, Florida, to create a little bit of light for a family in a big cloud of darkness. Helm, a resident of Vadnais Heights and a 2004 White Bear Lake grad, went to Florida for a few days in January to take part in the “Military Makeover” show on Lifetime.

Each season focuses on one family. The current season, which aired March 1, focuses on the Middleton family —Aaron, Holly and their four children, Trott, Scarlett, Magnolia and Kelvin—who have spent 20 years as a military family and shared deployments all over the world. In addition to a big health scare with Kelvin, who was born with multiple congenital birth defects that required surgery and almost took his life, one year ago the family unexpectedly lost their 5-year-old daughter Scarlett due to an undiagnosed illness.

Shake your Shamrock Dozens of area residents (many of them wearing green and other decorative embellishments in recognition of St. Patrick’s Day) participated in the annual Shake your Shamrock FILE PHOTO run around Centerville Shake your Shamrock attracts runners Lake Saturday, March from a number of area communities 16. including White Bear Lake, Hugo, Lino

White Bear Lake Lion’s Best odds “We like winners” Gambling Sites 617 Lounge Beartown Bar & Grill Carbone’s Pizzeria & Pub

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Residents who live in a three- or four-level home can sleep a little more soundly at night knowing that fi refighters will be able to reach them. The Hugo City Council approved the purchase of an aerial engine, not to exceed $1.1 million in price, at its Dec. 17 meeting.

Mayor Tom Weidt made a call, and a deal was made for the demonstration engine that has never seen a fire and has

Centerville developer intrigued by downtown

653205

approximately 6,000 miles on it. A trade-in for the city’s 1991 engine was also worked out to help bring the cost down. HFD Chief Kevin Colvard said if the city were to purchase this aerial engine new in 2021, it would likely cost the city around $1.3 million.

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And the growing continues. TGK Automotive currently has six locations (including the new headquarters that opened its doors in December in Hugo) and already has plans for a seventh location. Owner Troy Kaplan said he can’t disclose where that location will be just yet.

Troy owns the business with his wife, Alana. He has been in the automotive industry since he was 16 years old and worked as a technician and managed several automotive shops around the Twin Cities before his dream of opening up his own shop came true. TGK stands for Troy Gregory Kaplan.

Construction began in August 2018 on the new 11,270-square-foot headquarters.

The new building features eight repair bays (five more than the previous Hugo location), a truck repair bay, more storage, offices, a conference room and a much larger client waiting room and kids play area.

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68 Years

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JANUARY 2, 2020

57 Years

Lakes, Centerville and Forest Lake.

Kids Abilities goes the extra mile for children Both 2-year-old Gunnar of Centerville and 5-year-old Renesmee of White Bear Lake have attended Kids Abilities virtually their entire lives. Kids Abilities opened its first location in Shoreview around 16 years ago and its second location in Hugo nine years ago. It is owned

by Carol Gilligan of Stillwater and Jenny Elholm of Lino Lakes.

Family, friends and acquaintances packed American Legion Post 620 to celebrate a well-known pillar of the community Sunday, March 24. T.J. “Joe” Marier turned 100 the following day, March 25.

People who know Joe know he has done it all. He raised a family, served his country, ran the Hugo Feed Mill, served as school board member, Hugo fire chief and mayor, and volunteered at church. In addition to the birthday party at the Legion, the Hugo City Council also recognized Joe for his long life and generous contributions to the community at its March 18 meeting.

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52 Years

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Hundreds of anglers tried their luck out on the ice during the annual Centerville Lions Ice Fishing Contest Saturday, Feb. 16 on Centerville Lake.

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2020 THE CITIZEN

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46 Years

JANUARY 2, 2020

APRIL Good Life celebrates Easter

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included: Washington County Commissioner Fran Miron, Rep. Linda Runbeck (R-Circle Pines), Sen. Roger Chamberlain (R-Lino Lakes), Rep. Peter Fischer (DFL-Maplewood), Hugo Mayor Tom Weidt, City Council members Chuck Haas and Becky Petryk and City Administrator Bryan Bear. Also in attendance were Minnesota Commercial Railway Marketing Director Joe Kellner, JL Schwieters’ founder John Schwieters, Schwieters’ son and Plant Manager Blake Schwieters, and Loadmaster Lubricants’ owner Rick Stewart.

46 Years

Single high school, new elementary possible

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43 Years

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Rilee, 4, of Hugo, decorates an Easter egg in the company of her great-grandfather Willis Saturday, April 13 at Good Life Senior Living.

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Area legislators, community leaders, and city and county officials gathered April 17 at JL Schwieters Building Supply Construction headquarters to celebrate the success and economic workforce development of businesses in the Bald Eagle Industrial Park (BEIP) as a direct result of improvements that were recently made to the Hugo Freight Rail Short Line.

The event was a partnership between the city of Hugo, Washington County and the White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce. Some of the people in attendance

The consensus of a White Bear Lake Area Schools facilities planning committee is to solve the district’s growing enrollment by going back to a one-campus high school model by putting an addition on North Campus. The committee also concluded that a new elementary school is needed in Hugo. The committee will present its ideas to the school board April 22.

The facility planning committee of 90 staff, parents and community members has been discussing needed facility updates and expansions this school year to address the district’s growing enrollment and aging facilities. Enrollment is expected to increase to about 10,800 in less than 10 years, according to district documents.

It is about 8,600 this year. Current capacity is 8,700.

A 30-member solutions group then researched various ideas and discussed five

options for high school configuration and elementary configuration, among other needs.

Rosemary Apartments gets the OK Rosemary Apartments got the green light from the City Council at its April 15 meeting. Despite residents’ concerns, the council unanimously approved a site plan, conditional use permit (CUP) and the final plat for the project.

Rosemary Apartments (formerly known as Frenchman Lofts) is slated to be an approximately 80,000-square-foot, three-story apartment building housing 45 units on the property located north of Rosemary Way and west of Everton Avenue (just north and east of Festival Foods).

Community Development Director Rachel Juba explained the 80,000 square feet includes every level, including the area dedicated to underground parking. The actual building footprint will be closer to 20,000 square feet.

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing March 28 where 10 residents voiced their concerns about the project. Many of them voiced those same concerns in front of the council April 15.

Some of those concerns included: building height, parks, parking, drainage and affordable housing. Juba explained a neighborhood meeting was held (after citizens requested it) April 8 for residents along Everton Avenue who had questions and concerns about drainage.

MAY Flame engulfed finale for Hugo house

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40 Years 36

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37 Years

After running through hours of training exercises with members of the Hugo, Forest Lake and White Bear Lake fire departments, a house on Ingersoll Avenue is allowed to be clompletely engulfed in flames Saturday, May 4.

A live podcast and brats were all the fans of Garage Logic needed May 10 at Grundhofer’s Old-Fashioned Meats. Joe Soucheray is the creator and self-proclaimed mayor of Garage Logic. This is the fi rst time Grundhofer’s has hosted the Garage Logic team. Grundhofer’s advertises on the podcast, and when owner Spencer Grundhofer was asked if he would host the event, he jumped at the chance.

It wound up being the perfect space for almost 300 fans of the podcast to meet

and listen to a live taping.

With more than 100 kinds of brats, including its world famous gummy bear brat, the citizens of Garage Logic couldn’t have been happier.

Grundhofer’s provided brat samples and had its food truck set up on the day of the event.

Students art featured in 2019 Fête des Lacs Logo Given the prospect of having her art featured as the new logo for the Fête des Lacs city festival, one eighthgrade art student used her skills and determination to land fi rst place. The ceremo-

ny unveiling her winning logo was held April 26.

Cadence Dempsey, a student in Ms. Herrick’s Centennial Middle School art class, will see her logo featured on posters for the 2019 Fête des Lacs festival as well as the 5K/8K T-shirt. Fête des Lacs, or “Festival of Lakes,” is a weeklong community event that honors the city’s Native American and French-Canadian history and promotes residents’ enjoyment of the city’s parks, lakes and trails.

JUNE Hugo resident deemed ‘super wonderful’ neighbor

CHINESE RESTAURANT

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mother, Juanita Morten, who was born in 1926 — the date in the business’s logo. The company features well-marbled beef and pork from USDA Prime boneless steaks like filet, New York strip and ribeye, to USDA Prime dry-aged bone-in ribeye, porterhouse and KC strip steaks. The local Minnesota pork comes from Compart Family Farms in Nicollet and Fischer Family Farms in Waseca. The business also dry-ages its steaks in-house.

Longtime chef opens business in Hugo

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37 Years

Ruddy’s Rental

Waters Edge flips switch for second phase of stormwater reuse project

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31 Years

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FILE PHOTO

Bob Hanson is Hugo’s Good Neighbor of the Year.

He is pictured with his grandchildren, Zoey and Miles.

When Hugo resident Bob Hanson received a call informing him that he was selected as the 2019 Good Neighbor of the Year, he was “flabbergasted.” Hanson, who has lived in Hugo with his wife Michele for 29 years, was nominated by a neighbor who wishes to remain anonymous.

Centerville resident Dan Grilz and his girlfriend Kandi Renelt opened J. Mortens in Hugo.

As if having the last name Grilz wasn’t a good enough reason to open a butcher shop and market, the Centerville resident and longtime chef has always wanted to own his own business. Dan Grilz, a resident of Centerville, opened J. Morten’s in May. The business is located at 14643 Mercantile Drive (Suite 104), next to Anytime Fitness in Hugo.

J. Morten’s is named after Grilz’s grand-

With four developments and one golf course online and many more to come in future years, Hugo continues to be a “frontrunner” on stormwater reuse within developments. Waters Edge held a Flip the Switch ceremony May 23 to both turn on Phase I and initiate Phase II of its stromwater reuse irrigation system.

The fi rst phase of the project, which was operational last year, retrofitted the irrigation system to use stormwater instead of portable city water. Phase II is now in the design phase and should be operational by the end of the year, said City Engineer Mark Erichson.

2020 JANUARY 2, 2020

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THE CITIZEN

29 Years

JULY

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29 Years Happy Holidays!

A ‘miracle’: Dancer recovers from cardiac arrest

Manufacturers of Thermoformed Plastic Products and Assemblies 4221 Otter Lake Rd White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Phone 651-426-7319 wilbertplastics.com FILE PHOTO

Thousands of athletes from around the area, state, region and country participated in the Tough Mudder, hosted by Wild Wings of Oneka. Several obstacles requiring strength, agility and teamwork to complete were placed along a challenging course throughout the wildlife preserve. Participants could do the full 10 mile course, half or a 5K version.

AUGUST White Bear Schools bond would be biggest in state history At its July 15 meeting, the school board unanimously approved a big ask — a $326 million bond referendum — to be on the ballot this fall. If passed, it would be the largest in state history, confirmed Greg Abbott, Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) communications director. MSBA has a record of passed and failed school bonds dating back to 2000 on its website. The largest bond passed was by Anoka-Hennepin School District for $249 million in 2017, according to MSBA records. The district is using the money to renovate five high schools and build two new elementary schools.

Duke’s Poutine: A family concession stad Centerville resident Matt Ribar, who is 32, has never missed a State Fair.The 2005 White Bear grad has fond memories of the Great Minnesota Get-Together as well as other state fairs and festivals. Ribar’s father, Brad Ribar of White Bear Township, has owned the Corn Roast concession at the State Fair for 34 years.

The family’s passion transcends generations: in the ‘80s, Matt’s grandfather acquired

a cheese curd trailer from the Mueller family, which was known for having The Original Deep Fried Cheese Curds stand at the fair.

Although the family does not sell cheese curds at the State Fair, it does sell them at other fairs and festivals. Also in the family is Peter’s Hotdogs. At one point, the family operated a total of 13 food trailers.

District secures land for new school in Hugo White Bear Lake Area Schools found more preferable land for a new elementary school in Hugo. Purchase agreements for two parcels of land just north of the post office west of Highway 61 were approved by the school board at its Aug. 12 meeting. Purchase agreements for four properties located on Everton Avenue N. just north of Frenchman Road in western Hugo were executed this winter. Those agreements have now been rescinded.

Details of the new purchase agreements were discussed during a closed meeting.

According to Washington County property records, the parcels are almost 140 acres together. The larger agricultural and residential parcel is about 133 acres and its 2019 total property value is listed at about $1 million. A

7761 Lake Drive Suite E Lino Lakes

4-acre residential property next to it is listed as worth a total of about $313,000.

Breakfast on the Farm: Learn about life with Hugo family The Miron family is busy preparing to feed 2,000 people next month.Family members will host their first-ever Breakfast on the Farm event from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at 15250 Homestead Ave. N., Hugo.

The Miron Family Farm has been in existence since 1887. Fran and his wife Mary Ann mark the fourth generation of ownership.

The fifth generation, Fran’s sons Paul and Andrew, currently live on the farm with their wives and children (sixth generation). The farm was recognized as a Century Farm back in 1987 and Fran is hopeful it will make it to be recognized as a Sesquicentennial Farm, too.

The farm has always had dairy cows and grows corn, small grains and hay. These days, the farm’s focus is dairy, but it also has soybeans and three pigs, new this year. Currently the Mirons own 280 acres, but family members farm more than 800 acres.

“This is my tree, my place to be alone in, my branches for climbing, my leaves for hiding in, my sunshine for reading, my clouds for dreaming, my sky for singing, my tree, my beautiful tree.” This poem, written by Kathleen Fraser, is what sparked then-Media Specialist (now Instructional Coach) Julie Stonehouse’s idea for a reading tree in the media center at Oneka Elementary School.

Last year when Stonehouse was hired by the White Bear Lake School District, she was charged with changing the way the school utilizes the media center, and asked to come up with a redesign. When she asked the students what they would like to see in the space, they answered, “comfortable seating” and “fun places to read.” The space was revamped over spring break with the exception of one piece, the treehouse.

It may not be coming this year, but it’s coming. Following a presentation at the Sept. 11 Centerville City Council meeting from Stantec Engineer Kellie Schlegel on the history of the city’s Downtown Street and Utility Improvement project, a public hearing was held. Council then passed a resolution ordering the improvements and authorizing preparation of plans and specifications.

The project will install municipal water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, streets, curb and gutter and sidewalk improvements on downtown streets. Those streets include Centerville Road north of Main Street, Sorel Street west of Goiffon Road to Progress Road, Progress Road from Main Street to Heritage Street, Goiffon Road from Sorel Street to Heritage Street and Heritage Street from Centerville Road to the east of Progress Road.

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5 Years

SEPTEMBER Learning and imagination take root in ‘reading tree’

25 Years

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A 16-year-old Hugo dancer was running up the stairs for a quick costume change at a recital in June when she collapsed to the floor and went into cardiac arrest. After a two-week stay in the hospital and two major surgeries two days apart, Kaylyn Rosewell’s recovery is worthy of the term “miracle” used by the nurses and doctors who tended to her at Children’s Hospital of Minneapolis.

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Over the last 10 years, the Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network (BTYRN) has sent out 44,000 pounds of care packages to deployed solders and helped military members and their families with countless requests.

Over 100 people attended the Hugo BTRN’s 10th anniversary celebration Tuesday, June 25, at the place where it all began, City Hall. County Commissioner Gary Kriesel (District 3) suggested Hugo get involved in the program and Haas thought that was a great idea. The Hugo BTYRN program was one of the first chapters established in Minnesota. The first was Farmington, and Hugo, Stillwater and Woodbury were second, all proclaimed chapters on the same day.

tence, Midwest Best Water (MBW) is in need of more space. MBW signed a purchase agreement in March for the 2.3-acre city-owned parcel at 2061 Commerce Drive in the Clearwater Business Park.

The $405,000 sale officially closed June 13.To celebrate the deal, MBW held a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday, June 19, and construction of its $2 million building was slated to begin June 24.

FILE PHOTO

The threat of rain showers did not deter dozens of participants in the familyfriendly City 6 Mile Tour de Hugo route as they roll through a residential area in Hugo near Oneka Elementary School Saturday, Sept. 21.

Best Wishes for the New Year!

Bill* and Jane Weigel *2019 Volunteer of the Year

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Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network celebrates 10 years

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12

2020 THE CITIZEN

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JANUARY 2, 2020

OCTOBER

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Comfort food just when we’ll need it

Locations in: Champlin, MN Hugo, MN Maplewood, MN North Branch, MN

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Happy Holidays from Encore of the Twin Cities

Homecoming spirt on display

This January or February when everyone is ready for winter to be over, locals can warm up their bellies with signature, handmade pasta dishes at a new restaurant.

Shortly after the fi rst of the new year, Campanelle Restaurant & Bar will open its doors to customers at 7114 Otter Lake Road in Lino Lakes. Campanelle will be located in the same building as Dunkin’, on the west side, closest to the McDonalds. Owner Kent Bergmann, a Lino Lakes resident, has been in the restaurant industry for 24 years and counting and is thrilled to open up a restaurant in his own community.

Steakhouse coming to Hugo?

FILE PHOTO

White Bear Lake Area High School Homecoming Queen Ninchai NokChiclana and King Robb Wilcox wave to the crowd lining the streets in downtown White Bear Laked during the annual afternoon parade Friday, Sept. 27.

Residents were disappointed this past winter when the proposal for Cozzie’s Tavern & Grill on city-owned property across from City Hall never came to fruition. But now, another plan is in the works. Hugo residents Tony and Michele Harmening would like to build a 4,500-square-foot steakhouse called Cattle House and a potential event center on the property along Egg Lake. Tony presented his plans to the city’s Economic Development Authority Oct. 15.

Parent advocacy group offers support and connection Centerville mothers Gina Schmittdiel and Erin Ribar met three years ago after being connected through the Down

Syndrome Association (DSA) of Minnesota. Gina and her husband Brian have two children, a 4-year-old and 3-year-old Gunnar, who has Down syndrome.

Erin and her husband Matt have four children ages 7, 4, 2, and 7 months. Ben, their 2 1/2-yearold, has Down syndrome.

In 2017 the mothers began attending a Down syndrome parent group in Blaine. The following year, the two stepped up to facilitate the group, which they are doing again this year with the help of Sana Kassab Soussi from Blaine. Because the location in Blaine was only 10 miles away from another support group in Mounds View, they decided to find a new location in Circle Pines.

NOVEMBER Army veteran continues to find ways to serve

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Hugo resident grants yard access for snowmobilers

FILE PHOTO

Richard Houde has allowed snowmobilers access to 880 ft of his front yard.

Morning, evening and Saturday hours Doctor-owned, locally loved parkdental.com

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Call it providential, but when Paul Carlson started searching the worldwide web for a Santa suit seamstress, he found one Paul Carlson in his own backyard.

That’s pretty remarkable seeing how there are maybe six full-time professional Santa suit makers in the country. Deborah Mumaugh of White Bear Township is one of them.

Mumaugh happens to be married to a Santa, too, and

i h b d accompanies her h husband Gary as Mrs. Claus during his many stops. When children ask her age, Mrs. Claus doesn’t hesitate: “325,” she replies.

Both Mumaugh and Carlson make it clear not just anyone can don the costume and become the jolly old elf, even if they do have a little round belly that shakes like jelly.

Firefighters spread holiday cheer Hugo residents Vivienne, 10, Evelyn, 7 and their mother Mindy Thorstad stop by Lions Park in Hugo Dec. 7 to drop off some wrapped toys for the Hugo Fire Department’s annual food /toy drive.

The department collected

681 pounds d off ffood, d $415 iin monetary donations and a trailer load of toys during the drive.

Neighbor charged in connection to dog’s death A neighbor has been charged in connection to an incident that resulted in the death of a 3 1/2-year-old dachshund named Buddy in Centerville.

Larry Allen Hanson, 61, of Centerville, has been charged with one count of cruelty to animals. The felony offense carries a maximum sentence of up to two years in prison and/or a fi ne of $1,000 to $5,000.

Th Therapy cat: t N New 4 4-legged l d resident finds home at Keystone Seniors who live at Keystone Place at LaValle Fields are used to visits from all sorts of animals, including dogs, horses, bunnies and chickens, but for the past couple of months a new regular has been stopping by.

Sunshine the cat makes weekly stops at the facility, alternating between one-onone visits and group visits.

Sunshine is owned by Hugo resident Kristie Flanagan.

Sunshine, who is thought to be about 3 or 4 years old, was rescued from the Northwoods Animal Humane Society in Wyoming. Although she is not technically registered as a therapy animal, the residents can’t tell the difference.

TOP 10 2019 WEBSITE STORIES - THE CITIZEN

Weekend Masses Saturday 4 PM Sunday 8:45 AM, 10:30 AM, 7:30 PM

1.Report of suicidal male ends in tragedy

5.Another restaurant option may come to Hugo

8.Breakfast on the Farm: Learn about life with Hugo family

2.Steakhouse coming to Hugo?

Weekday Masses

3.2019 Hunt for the Golden Spike

6.Man found dead outside police department, officials say he shot himself

9.A ‘miracle’: Dancer recovers from cardiac arrest

Monday-Friday 8 AM Wednesday 6:30 PM

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What to do to improve the public works facility has been on the minds of city staff and the City Council for a couple of years now. The facility, located on 137th Street N., was built in 2004 for $2.5 million. Back in 2018, the council announced one of its goals was to conduct a space needs study for city buildings. Employees were asked to complete a survey of needs for the facilities they utilize. In 2019, the council found a space needs study for the public works building was needed. Jeff Oertel, of Oertel Architects, presented the study findings to the council and city staff at a workshop Nov. 12.

DECEMBER Sewing S i ffor S Santa: t L Labor b off L Love

Park Dental Hugo

Thanks to the generosity of a local resident, a dreaded stretch of road for snowmobilers will be safer this winter. Richard Houde and his wife Marylou have lived in their home on 137th Street N. since 1976.

The two have agreed to grant snowmobilers access to 880 feet of their front yard, the equivalent of 2 1/2 football fields.

The Houdes’ property is located across from 137th Street Court N. and right before the curve where 137th Street turns into Homestead Avenue N. Hugo Snowmobile Club President John Udstuen said that the newly granted access is a big deal.

Council dives into future of public works building

648996

1750 Commerce Drive White Bear Lake

Boulevard Circle, according to Washington County Property records. Its 2019 value was listed as $648,700. The land is owned by Nordling Property, located in White Bear Lake.

The location, size, accessibility and cost was what the district was looking for, according to Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak. The relocation of the bus garage will make room for the unified high school expansion.

District finds land for bus garage in Hugo The bus garage currently located near White Bear Lake Area High School North Campus will likely move to Hugo to make room for the one-campus high school expansion. The school board approved a purchase agreement with a property owner in the Bald Eagle Industrial Park at its Nov. 12 meeting. Details of the agreement were not released from the closed meeting.

The 7-acre site is located off Fenway Boulevard, near the intersection of Fenway

A LEADER IN THE INDUSTRY SINCE 1979

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With a list of service projects that could fill a novel, it is no surprise that Army veteran Jeff Loeks will be recognized with an award later this month. Loeks is a 2019 Wilbur Thomas Community Service Award recipient. The award is presented annually to HealthPartners team members who strive to improve their communities through outstanding volunteer service.

Loeks, a White Bear Township resident, is no stranger to coverage in Press Publications’ newspapers. Numerous articles have been published about him, all with the common theme of service. Loeks served in the Army’s 3rd Ranger Battalion from 1988 to 1992 and was deployed to the invasion of Panama and Desert Storm.

4.Duke’s Poutine: A family concession stand

7.American Legion Post 620 dishes up ‘The Post’

10.Arson investigation underway

JANUARY 2, 2020

www.readthecitizen.com

HUGO CITY CALENDAR Jan. 6: Jan. 9: Jan. 10: Jan 15:

THE CITIZEN

13

HUGO BITS & PIECES

City Council meeting at 7 p.m.

Planning Commission meeting at 7 p.m.

Movie Night at 7 p.m. at Oneka Elementary School Parks Commission meeting at 7 p.m.

Special meetings are posted in the City Hall lobby. Public notices are now published in The Citizen; read them at www.presspubs. com (click on Public Notices).

CENTERVILLE CITY CALENDAR Jan. 7: Jan. 10: Jan. 14:

Planning & Zoning Commission meeting at 6:30 p.m.

Skate Night at 7 p.m. at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

LINO LAKES CITY CALENDAR Jan. 2: Jan. 6: Jan. 8: Jan. 13:

EDAC meeting at 8 a.m.

City Council work session at 6 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Board meeting at 6:30 p.m.

City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

DNR officials stress snowmobile safety as fatal crashes trend up This holiday season, conservation officers from the Department of Natural Resources are reminding all snowmobile riders to make safety their priority as the number of fatal crashes around the state has trended upward the past few years.

Three riders have died so far this winter and there have been other close calls, including snowmobiles that have gone through the ice and an instance in which a person was hit while walking on the ice. Last winter, 10 riders lost their lives in snowmobile-related crashes, five died the year before and three people died in 2015-16.

“We want people enjoying the Minnesota winter, but we want them to do it safely,” said Bruce Lawrence, recreational vehicle coordinator with the DNR’s Enforcement Division.

Snow cover throughout Minnesota, including on many of the 22,000 miles of trails that traverse the state (varying local conditions mean not all are yet groomed), have led to a surge in the number of people taking advantage of a fun and unique way to enjoy Minnesota’s outdoors.

“Passing along your passion for the outdoors is one of the greatest gifts you can give another person,” he said. “By modeling safe behavior, you can ensure that passion lives on in youngsters and new snowmobile riders.”

Lawrence offers the following tips to ensure a safe ride: • Stay on marked trails. The state’s snowmobile clubs work hard to keep trails in good riding condition. Riders who stay on groomed trails are less likely to strike an obstacle or trespass onto private property. In parts of the state, wet conditions where trails go through low areas or across lakes mean trails aren’t yet groomed. Riders should plan ahead and check trail conditions before heading out.

• Leave the booze at home. Drinking and riding is one of two main factors in crashes and plays a role in about 60% of those that are fatal.

• Watch the speed. Going too fast is the other main factor in crashes. Many serious and fatal crashes occur when a speeding snowmobiler loses control or strikes an object.

• Be careful on the ice. During the past two winters, every through-the-ice fatality but one has involved people who were riding a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle when they fell through. There must be at least 5 to 7 inches of new, clear ice to support the weight of a snowmobile and rider.

• Take a snowmobile safety course. It’s required of anyone born after 1976 and recommended for everyone. People with snowmobile safety certification are less likely to be involved in serious or fatal crashes.

Additional safety tips can be found online at mndnr. gov/snowmobiling/safety.html From press release

PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Rev. Philip ‘Buddy’ A. Winn Jr., senior Army chaplain for the Minnesota National Guard, and Chuck Haas, co-chair of the Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network, recognize Oneka Ridge Golf Course as the Sponsor of the Year for serving up the most burgers at the monthly Hamburger Night. Pictured with them is Scott Arcand of Oneka Ridge Golf Course.

The Hugo City Council took the following action at its Dec. 16 meeting: • Held a moment of silence for three National Guard soldiers who were killed in a Black Hawk helicopter crash in December. Rev. Philip ‘Buddy’ A. Winn Jr., senior Army Chaplain for the Minnesota National Guard, said, “It just reminds us of the frailty of life, how short life is, how precious it is, how grateful and blessed we are that the community would come together to support the families of our fallen.” Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network (BTYRN) Co-Chair Chuck Haas shared that he received a $1,000 donation in the mail for the families of the three soldiers.

Winn also presented a thank you note to the Hugo BTYRN from soldiers of Task Force Spartan, who are serving in the Middle East.

• Recognized 2019’s BTYRN Hamburger Night sponsors. The Sponsor of the Year Award went to Oneka Ridge Golf Course.

• Recognized Forest Lake High School Rotary Interact for its efforts in organizing a care package drive in partnership with the BTYRN. Haas also presented a certificate of appreciation to Abigail Leigjeld, one of the main leaders of the effort.

• Received a visit from Oneka Elementary students, who presented BTYRN with fleece blankets to be sent to deployed soldiers. This year, around 180 kids helped to make 87 blankets.

• Renewed liquor and tobacco licenses for 2020.

• Approved a resolution certifying delinquent utility accounts. Property owners who have not paid their outstanding utility bill will see it certified to the county for property tax rolls.

• Approved an ordinance establishing the 2020 fee schedule and publication of a summary ordinance.

• Approved the reappointment of Planning Commissioner David Fry (four years); Parks Commissioners Cathy Moore-Arcand, Nicole Schmid and Ranell Tennyson (three years); Maria Mulvihill to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Adjustments (one year); Cynthia Schoonover and Trina Oswald to the Historical Commission (three years); and EDA member Tom Denaway (six years).

• Approved pay voucher No. 1 for $167,812 to Peterson Companies Inc. for work done on the second phase of the Waters Edge stormwater reuse project.

• Approved a lawful gambling exempt permit for the Church of St. Genevieve’s Fish Fry April 3.

• Approved a reduction in the letter of credit for Oneka Place 3rd Addition. The developer requested a reduction in the letter of credit. The current letter of credit is for approximately $2.13

Chuck Haas recognizes Abigail Leigjeld, a student at Forest Lake High School, who was one of the key organizers of care package drive in 2019.

million. City staff inspected the work completed and recommended reducing the letter of credit by about $1.57 million based on the value of the work remaining. The remaining value of the letter of credit is just over $500,000.

The council also approved a reduction in the letter of credit for Fable Hills 6th Addition. The current letter of credit is in the amount of almost $746,000. Staff recommended reducing the letter of credit by almost $549,000. The remaining value of the letter of credit will be just under $200,000.

• Approved the retirement of Ron Gray from the Hugo Fire Department after 40 years of service.

• Canceled the Jan. 20 City Council meeting, which falls on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The council also scheduled its annual goal-setting session for 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27.

• Scheduled the Local Board of Appeals and Equalization meeting for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9.

Shannon Granholm

14

&

THE CITIZEN

www.readthecitizen.com

JANUARY 2, 2020

Patience, persistence are keys for rookie Bear hoops lineup With an all-new lineup after an excellent senior class graduated, White Bear Lake basketball posted a 2-4 record before Christmas.

“We are young and inexperienced,” acknowledged coach Keith Lockwood, “but the kids are working hard, competing hard against each other in practice. We should get better and better as the year goes on.”

Like a lot of teams this season, the Bears have been battling the flu. “Brice missed a full week,” Lockwood said, referring to senior guard Brice Peters, the only returning player who saw significant action last year.

Lockwood said the team “has been defending well for the most part” while struggling to score at times.

“We probably have to hold teams in the 50’s to have a good shot,” Lockwood said.

Peters has averaged 16.7 points in the three games he’s played. Freshman guard Jack Janicki is averaging 14.8 points, and junior guard Kanye Raheem 13.0 points. The rest are between six and 3.2 points while trying to get comfortable at the varsity level.

“Our two bigs are both juniors,” said Lockwood, referring to Will Forsythe and Max Steiner. “We’d like to get a little more rebounding out of them as they get more experience on varsity.”

Having a ninth-grader step up as much as Janicki has so far is not a surprise.

“That was kind of expected,” Lockwood said. “Jack led our JV in scoring and worked very hard this summer. He’s going to be a special player.”

The Bears played in the Tartan Holiday Tournament on Friday and Saturday. See presspubs.com for those results. The Press had an early deadline due to the holidays so those games will be in next week’s edition.

LISA SIDDONS | SUBMITTED

Jack Janicki, Bear freshman, drives to the hoop against Stillwater.

WHITE BEAR SPORTS BRIEF

Bear matmen beat CDH, Zephyrs on alumni night The White Bear Lake wrestlers picked up two victories while hosting alumni night on Friday, Dec. 20. The Bears (5-5) opened with a 63-15 win over Cretin-Derham Hall. Getting pins for the Bears were Dov Nathanson at 106, Tyler Brock at 120, Josh Powell at 132, Kesean Woods-Lipscomb at 138, Dysin Strate at 152, Monte Collins at 160, Matt Sloan at 182, Luke Prokosch at 220 and Tristen Hentgen at 285. Sam Adair won 10-7 at 126. Ali Charif got a forfeit at 113.

The Bears then defeated Mahtomedi 45-32. They had tied the Zephyrs 42-42 earlier in the season. Wins came from Nathanson (pin), Adair (tech fall), WoodsLipscomb (pin), Strate (pin), Sloan (major decision), and Prokosch (pin). Brock and Powell got forfeits.

The Bears competed at a Champlin Park tournament Saturday. That will be in next week’s paper.

Bruce Strand

Bear icemen 8-0-1 at holiday break

JASON STRATE | SUBMITTED

White Bear Lake’s 220-pound Luke Prokosch grips Mahtomedi’s Max Rice on the way to a pin.

Bruce Strand

CENTENNIAL SPORTS BRIEFS

of the

Athlete

points. Jenna Guyer added 12, Camille Cummings nine and Hannah Herzig eight.

Maye Fitzpatrick netted 10 and Miyah Dubose nine for the Rebels (2-5).

Centennial played in the Roseville Area holiday

tournament Friday and Saturday. Those games will appear in the next edition of the Quad Community Press due to early deadline this week for the holidays.

Cougar icemen lose to Andover 5-1

Andrew Blillie Andrew Blillie, Centennial senior swim captain who’s a returning state qualifier in the 500 freestyle, has been doing well in the 100 and 500 freestyle and 200 individual medley for the Cougars. “In our two dual meets, he’s won every event he’s been in,” coach Pete Crawford said. “He’s a hard worker, a good leader, he takes on challenges, and encourages others.”

His season bests are 2:08.23 in the IM, 52.27 in the 100 and 5:15.52 in the 500 which placed fourth in the Blaine Invitational.

Minnesota’s #1 Volume Toyota Dealer!

Per Toyota Motor Sale USA 2019

651-482-1322 maplewoodtoyota.com • maplewoodscion.com

Centennial boys hockey lost its last game before the Christmas break to Andover 5-1 on Dec. 21 with A.J. Carls notching the goal. Wyatt Kaiser had two goals for Andover (6-1). The Cougars (3-4) played in the Tradition tournament in Plymouth last weekend.

Results will be in the next edition.

Centennial skaters thump Wisconsin team 9-1 Centennial girls hockey cruised against Western Wisconsin 9-1 on Dec. 17 at the Super Rink in Blaine.

Megan Goodreau pumped in three goals, while Ella O’Hearn, Morgan O’Hearn, Allison Pitlick, Sydni Griefenhagen, Nicole Hammond and Lauren O’Hara had one each.

Anna Gilgosch made 16 saves for the Cougars (7-4).

Centennial Swimming s chosen by press staf *Athlete f

Week*

Cougar girls, ranked No. 5, fend off Rebels The No. 5 ranked Centennial Cougars turned back Champlin Park 61-53 in girls basketball on Friday, Dec. 20. The Cougars (7-1) were paced by Jodi Anderson with 14

617502

White Bear Lake boys hockey heads into New Year’s unbeaten and ranked No. 3 after blanking Park of Cottage Grove 4-0 at home Saturday, Dec. 21.

The Bears (8-0-1) outshot the winless Wolfpack 48-18 but Park goalie Conner Nelson made 41 saves. The Bears led by only 3-2 until Sam Newpower scored on a power play with 1:05 left in the game.

Tyler Bishop, Grant Hofeld and Billy Rose tallied the fi rst three goals. Ryan Dehling made 16 saves for the Bears. Brandon Greeder and Dalton Anderson scored for the Wolfpack (0-5-1).

Top scorers for the Bears are (goals-assistspoints) Lleyton Roed 11-11-22, Rose 6-15-21, Newpower 8-11-19, Sam Verkerke 5-9-14 and Hofeld 3-7-10.

Top five in the Class 2A rankings are Eden Prairie, Maple Grove, White Bear Lake, HillMurray and Rosemount.

The Bears will return to action Thursday, Jan. 2, hosting Irondale/St. Anthony.

MAPLEWOOD

T TOYOTA 654793

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Bruce Strands

JANUARY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

15

Agriculture and climate: challenges and solutions THIRD IN A SERIES

BY RITA ERICKSON SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Agriculture has been central to Minnesota’s economy and identity from the beginning. Currently, the state ranks fi fth in the nation in total agricultural production and is among the top 10 states in more than 20 commodities, including soybeans, sweet corn, sugar beets and turkeys.

Climate changes threaten the very foundation of this economic sector. Minnesota is on track for higher overall precipitation, with floods delaying spring planting. Yet, it will also experience warmer, drier conditions in late summer, “crisping� plants and threatening harvests. In addition to shrinking yield, rising atmospheric carbon dioxide and hot temperatures both affect crop quality. Levels of protein and mineral nutrients are lowered in food crops such as wheat, soybeans and rice. And higher temperatures and droughts can cause toxins to accumulate in plants and livestock, threatening the health of both animals and people.

Current “industrial� agriculture accounts for fully 25% of carbon emissions worldwide. The good news is that several of the same practices that would help farmers shield themselves from the

worst climate impacts would also contribute substantially to emissions reduction.

At the Climate Reality Project training held in Minneapolis in early August, Professors Tracy Twine (University of Minnesota Department of Soil, Water and Climate) and Henry Pollack (University of Michigan Geophysics, emeritus) described such “regenerative agriculture� practices.

These methods include no-till/low-till agriculture, planting cover crops, intercropping and diversity, and rotational grazing.

During his address, Gov. Tim Walz lamented, “Minnesota’s leading export recently has been topsoil!� Plowing increases soil vulnerability to erosion by water or wind, both of which intensify with climate change. Twine and Pollack underscored the inherent value of black topsoil, which holds even more carbon than does vegetation—in fact, soil is the planet’s largest repository of carbon. When soils erode or are stressed by repeat plantings, their carbon is released into the atmosphere.

Twine urged individuals to regard soil as an intricate, living thing—comprising colonies of bacteria and fungi as well as minerals.

With regenerative agriculture, emissions are reduced because less fuel is demanded, and warming is mitigated as atmospheric carbon is captured and

stored in the soil. Runoff is prevented, safeguarding water quality. And cover crops reduce or eliminate the need for nitrogen fertilizers.

Perennials (including clovers and kernza wheat) pull tons of carbon out of the atmosphere, year after year. These plants are deeply rooted, cover the earth and absorb nitrates, which protects water.

As with development of renewable fuels, Minnesota appears in the forefront of advancing regenerative agriculture and is home to a variety of public and private initiatives. The U of M’s Forever Green Initiative is one such program. Run in partnership with the USDA, the initiative works to develop perennial crops (like kernza and sunflower), winter annual crops (barley, pennycress) and native woody crops (hazelnuts, elderberries). Such crops work synergistically to enhance both soil and water quality while offering habitat.

A second organization, the Northfield-based Main Street Project, has as its goal a “poultry-centered regenerative agro-forestry system.� It seeks to incorporate free-range poultry (and perennial native crops like hazelnuts and elderberries) into a sustainable regional food system—one accessible to aspiring farmers with limited resources, such as young people and immigrants. Main Street has established prototype facilities (open to the public)

PHONE: 651-407-1250 | EMAIL: classified@presspubs.com

• Employment • Employment • Employment •

Need to sell an item for extra cash?

PRESS PUBLICATIONS IS SEEKING A

MULTIMEDIA REPRESENTATIVE If you enjoy meeting people, solving problems and helping businesses grow, this may be the perfect opportunity for you. Press Publications seeks an organized and creative professional multimedia rep to promote and market the business community through our products in print and digital. Sales experience is helpful but training is provided to the candidate who shows the willingness to learn and grow in a fast-paced marketplace.

Send your resume to: Patty Steele at marketing@presspubs.com or call 651-407-1213

Does your shop need something moved?

We have space and a truck available for local, weekly and monthly routes in and around the Moundsview, Circle Pines, White Bear, Hugo, Maplewood, Roseville area.

Wed., Thurs., Fri., Sat. Call Lisa at 651-407-1205

Having a sale?

FOR SALE

SNOW REMOVAL WANTED: RULE 3 LEAD TEACHER WITH TODDLERS! Well established center, 25 years, in Lino Lakes looking for full time teacher!

Competitive pay with benefits. Come join our Team of Fantastic Teachers!

Call Patti @ 651786-2286 or email patacakel@aol.com

PT Flex Positions for men & women No. Sub. Locations

$19-$30 per hour Paid within 3 days *Bonus program for season long commitment.

Call Bill at: (651)490-9755 amilawn@ aol.com

REIMBURSED STIPENED VOLUNTEER POSITIONS Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is looking for volunteers, 55+ to serve in our Senior Companion Program. Our volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement and other benefits. Contact: Terry Hollingsworth at 651-310-9459 or Terry.Hollingsworth@lssmn.org

MERCHANDISE ASSOCIATE – FULL TIME Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever are the nation's leading upland wildlife habitat conservation organizations. Duties: Pick & pack merchandise orders, assemble banquet pkgs for Chapter events, assist drivers load/unload trucks, light maint bldg & grounds; ability to lift boxes on a regular basis, etc. Located in White Bear Lake. Position is open until filled.

For more info & to apply: www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs

HELP WANTED

Unbox Your Potential Interested in a fast-paced job with career advancement opportunities? Join the FedEx Ground team as a package handler.

Package Handlers $16.00-18.50/hr to start Compensation • Tuition reimbursement program • Career advancement opportunities • Weekly paycheck/direct deposit QualiďŹ cations • Must be at least 18 years of age • Must be able to load, unload and sort packages, as well as perform other related duties

Full-time and flexible schedules available in some locations.

5P BQQMZ, UFYU '9(GMZFS UP PS WJTJU GroundWarehouseJobs.fedex.com .FTTBHF BOE EBUB SBUFT NBZ BQQMZ NFTTBHF QFS SFRVFTU 5FYU )&-1 UP GPS IFMQ 5FYU 4501 UP UP DBODFM FedEx Ground is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer (Minorities/Females/Disability/Veterans) committed to a diverse workforce.

Place a classiďŹ ed ad 24/7 presspubs.com/classiďŹ eds Rentals/Commercials

LARGE TWO BEDROOM FOR RENT! Historic area Mahtomedi/White Bear Lake. N/s, N/p, $1150.

651-717-8820

Need extra cash for the Holidays?

Pick up a carrier route!

RT 227 Partridge Drive/Wild Goose Lane – 53 papers Rt 285 Cottage Ave/County Rd H2/Prospect – 42 papers Rt 121 N of Cedar – E of McKnight – 66 papers Rt 125 N of Cedar – W of McKnight – 82 papers Rt 150 N of Co Rd E – E of Wildwood – 37 papers Rt 294 N of 96 – E of Portland – 53 papers

Other Routes available, call our Circulation Dept.

at 651-407-1234

EAST SHORE PLACE MAHTOMEDI 1 BEDROOM WAIT LIST opening for seniors, 62 years or older; rent based on income for qualified applicants.

Applications may be downloaded at www.eastshoreplace.commonbond.org from 9 a.m. Jan. 1 until 4 p.m. Jan. 31.

Completed applications must be received by mail on or before Feb. 7. All qualified applicants will be placed on waiting list in the order they're received.

CommonBond Communities Equal Housing Opportunity

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.� Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.

The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

PHONE: 651-407-1250 | EMAIL: classified@presspubs.com

16

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THE CITIZEN

Furniture REDUCED! Beveled glass dining table/4 chairs. 36�x60� like new cond. Bought new, $800. Selling for $100. 651-494-7149

Sales

Notices

Buy & Sell Records

classified@presspubs.com

Winchester Model 37 SS $125 651-4927276

Notices LOCATION CODES

JANUARY 2, 2020

Vinyl, LPs,45s,Cassettes, stereos, CDs White Bear Lake Records 4775 Banning Ave,WBL M-F;1-6 Sat;10-2 Sun;12-4 651-224-4947 wblrecords.com

PET SERVICE DIRECTORY

For Sale Coleman backpack, $15. 651-429-1264 1991 Toyota Pickup, 4 speed. rusty, runs good, $800 651-7844944 2 Fluorescent lights w/bulbs. $10/ea. 651429-1264 5 Pc. Bedroom set including king poster bed, 8 drawer dresser with mirror, armoire and 2 nightstands. Ex. Cond.

REDUCED! $800 $700/OBO 612270-7920

8 piece dining room set including 40� x 60� table with 2-12� leaves expanding to 84� long, 6 chairs and matching china cabinet. Perfect cond.

REDUCED!! $700 $600/OBO 612270-7920 ALPACA YARN SALE Spt. Wt 4 natural colors $14/300-yrd. skein 651-429-2530 Antique small dresser $30. 651-429-1264

Home Improvement

Howling/ Moving

A HANDYMAN Lrg & sm jobs 651-407-0370

Scrap metal appliance pick up 651-329-0815

Notices

Cross country skis and poles, $28. 651429-1264 New snowboards 2 Echo, 8�x32�, $20/each. 1 Free Ride 110, Spider-man, $25.

651-426-2533 Snowblower8HP electric start, 26� cut $195 or offer. 651-429-1264 Bolens 8HP mulcher/chipper. Very good Cond. $350. $250. 612-221-5598

MAKE EVERY DAY

Pawesome!

Home/ Business Cleaning Ann's House Cleaning, 19 yrs exp, est. & ref. avlb. Text or call 651-776-7834

Vehicles Wanted CARS WANTED • Cash Paid • Free Towing Call Swede's Towing, LLC (651) 462-5513 (612) 269-2706

Free items Free pick up for donated small furn/HH items to Church Store 651-430-0011

Notices

Special Events & Entertainment All you need for planning.....

For more information or to place an ad, call 651-407-1221 or e-mail: classified@presspubs.com

For more information or to place an ad, call 651-407-1220 or e-mail: classified@presspubs.com

JANUARY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

Email: callaspecialist @presspubs.com

To place an ad call: 651-407-1250 AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

Your Indoor Air Quality Specialists

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APPLIANCE REPAIR

FEED MILL

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Your Local Hardware Store & More

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Whatever you're looking for: custom cabinets, interior or exterior reďŹ nishing, a new kitchen or bath, windows, doors, handcrafted furniture or a custom outdoor cooking station, Accent Wood Solutions is the solution. We can help with any of your remodeling needs!

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5 simple ways to increase energy efficiency and savings

Save the Date

(MS) — Fall and winter can be tough on your home and your wallet. As temperatures drop, chances are your furnace will be working overtime. This results in two things — greater energy consumption and higher heating bills.

In fact, costs associated with heating and cooling a home year-round typically comprise twothirds of the average energy bill.

Try these easy DIY projects to help cut down on energy loss and expenses: 1. Replace worn weather-stripping around doors and windows. Worn weather-stripping can create drafts and let heated air out, stressing your furnace and compromising your comfort. Replacing it takes little time and is a lowcost, high-impact solution.

2. Top up or replace old insulation in your attic. A poorly insulated attic is a primary source of energy loss. Also, over time, some types of insulation can settle and compact, allowing heat to escape through gaps. Experts recommend topping up or replacing attic insulation with a dimensionally stable batt insulation like Roxul Comfortbatt. Aim for an R-value of at least R-50 or a depth of roughly 16 inches.

3. Insulate basement headers and walls.

Uninsulated basement headers are common, especially in older homes. They can act as a gateway for heated air to escape. 00 Fixing the problem is fast easy.with Simply cut ComfortBrides areand FREE registration batt mineral wool insulation to ďŹ t the cavity and compress into place. Doing this throughout yourCOMPLIMENTARY basement will prevent heat loss BAGS and can TOTE potentially savetohundreds of 50! dollars each year. the first 4. Caulk around windows. Cracks and crevices are a source of heat loss. They can also be an entry point for water/moisture, as well as for unwelcome insects. Preventative maintenance, such as caulking, can improve energy efďŹ ciency and prevent costly repairs.

Send your name, address, phone 5. Change your furnace ďŹ lter. Make it a point number and wedding date to: to check your furnace ďŹ lter monthly, always marketing@presspubs.com changing it when it’s dirty. This will improve the performance and efďŹ ciency of your furnace, presspubs.com saving you money.

2020

35th Annual Wedding Expo JANUARY 12, 2020 11 AM - 2 PM

Best Western Plus

White Bear Country Inn White Bear Lake | MN

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Register early, brides!

(651) 407-1213

18

THE CITIZEN

JANUARY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

Sudoku

Weather tidbits

Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake.

Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area.

Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.

SUNRISE / SUNSET

WEATHER TIDBIT We’ve been on a very mild streak of weather for the last ten days of the month, and up until this weekend, a dry period.

Our last significant precipitation event was back on Dec. 12-13 when a couple of inches of snow fell. In that time roads, walks and driveways cleared off. We’re now one third through our coldest winter months and days are getting longer. If you still haven’t taken a winter break, you have that to look forward to. Health and happiness to you and your family for 2020. Note: My 2020 weather calendar is available. Check WeathermanWatson.com or call 651-206-5364 for more info.

WEEKLY AVERAGES JAN. 1 - 7, 2020 High 20° 4° Low 41% %Sun 0.32” PCP

Wed Jan.

1

7:51

4:42

Thu Jan.

2

7:51

4:43

Fri

Jan.

3

7:51

4:44

Sat Jan.

4

7:51

4:45

Sun Jan.

5

7:51

4:46

Mon Jan.

6

7:51

4:47

Tue Jan.

7

7:50

4:48

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Press Publications • 4779 Bloom Avenue • White Bear Lake, MN 55110 • (651) 407-1200 • presspubs.com

JANUARY 2, 2020

THE CITIZEN www.readthecitizen.com

19

District’s financial position ‘very stable’

BY SARA MARIE MOORE VADNAIS HEIGHTS EDITOR

In other action, the school board: • Held a public hearing about and approved certification of the 2019, payable 2020, property tax levy. The levy will be about $12 million more, reported Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald.

SUBMITTED

During the December White Bear Lake Area Schools board meeting, retiring board members Ellen Fahey and Scott Wilson were recognized for their invaluable contributions to the district over the years.

The levy was $44 million in 2019 and will be $56 million in 2020, a 27% increase. The majority, an increase of $11 million, is for the $326 million in building bonds approved by voters in November. The $11 million is for 2020 payments of principal and interest on the bonds, Wald said. The first sale of the bonds is expected in February. The additional $1 million mostly comes from an estimated increase of about 300 pupil units. The district receives a certain amount from the levy per student. The large increase puts the district in closer alignment with what neighboring districts receive, said Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak. One person spoke.

• Approved an updated strategic plan and mission statement. The mission statement was updated to include, “A culture that respects diverse people and ideas” in lieu of “diversity of people and ideas.” Also, “Safe, nurturing, and inspiring environments” was changed to to “Safe, nurturing and inspiring experiences.” There were also several clarifications made in the strategies of the strategic plan. A new strategy was added: “We will imagine new concepts in learning and teaching at White Bear Lake Area High School.”

• Approved a middle school schedule change proposal.

The changes align with the strategic plan. There was a change to prioritize literacy instruction. There will be an additional literacy course every other day in sixth and seventh grade. Minnesota history will also be offered for a full year instead of half a year.

World language and health credits will shift grades to provide room for the additional instruction. Design and modeling and family and consumer science offerings will be slightly reduced.

• Approved recommended secondary course proposals for the 2020-21 school year. There will be new courses: advanced placement computer science A, introduction to business, and personalized learning and navigating for special education.

• Approved the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school year calendars.

The 2021-22 calendar will be completed and approved at the December 2020 meeting.

• Accepted about $3,500 in Greater White Bear Lake

Community Foundation grants.

• Approved the proposed 2019-2021 agreement with the White Bear Lake Administrators’ Association.

Holiday Coloring Contest

Presenting the winner: Emmett J., Age 5

Thank you to all who participated, see all submissions online at presspubs.com Thank you to all of our advertisers who sponsored this page.

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According to the district’s recent audit report, White Bear Lake Area Schools is in a “very stable” financial position.

A finance audit from the 2018-19 school year was presented at the December school board meeting by Jim Eichten, managing partner with MMKR CPAs. The district was given a clean opinion on its financial statements.

Although the general fund declined by $2.8 million compared to a budget decline of $3.5 million, the district did better than its budgeted projections by $700,000. For a $115 million to $117 million organization, the budget “came extraordinarily close,” Eichten said. “To come within $700,000 is a credit to all those working on that particular budget project.”

However, the district is below its fund balance policy.

The district has a policy to have a fund balance of 12.5% to 16% of operating expenditures but was at 8.2%. The district does anticipate that it will go up next year.

The district received a certificate of excellence in financial reporting. “We do find the district’s financial position to be very stable with adequate resources to continue moving forward,” Eichten said.

Besides fund balance, the auditor looked at several other financial markers in the district.

“We did have a couple of findings this year as related to internal controls,” Eichten said. The auditor discovered there were limited segregation of duties over cash disbursements, payroll and payroll-related items. The concern is that one individual had too much control over the duties. Internal control issues were also found in payroll processing. There was oversight of record keeping in the payroll department and in reconciliation of accounts.

The district has already taken action to correct these findings. Another staff person was hired to broaden financial duties.

There were no legal compliance findings. The auditor did find that the reporting of time and effort for the special education federal program was not completed as required.

Eichten retested the district for a requirement missed for the child nutrition federal program last year and discovered the issue had been corrected. He said the White Bear district has a track record of taking findings seriously and correcting them.

“An audit is a learning experience,” Eichten said.

“We help to identify concerns and but also identify weaknesses and ultimately fix those weaknesses.”

The school board accepted the audit report.

20

THE CITIZEN

JANUARY 2, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

Men’s club brings holiday cheer to Hugo and Centerville

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

The St. John the Baptist Men’s Club of St. Genevieve’s Church brought cheer to seniors at Keystone Place at LaValle Fields, Chauncey Barett Gardens and Muller Manor. It has long been a tradition of the group to visit senior living facilities and sing some Christmas tunes. Santa usually makes an appearance, too.

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Annual New Families Open House Monday, January 13

SPECIAL OFFER FOR L&B EXTRAS MEMBERS ONLY!

K-8 campus: 5-7 pm — 4576 232nd Street North, Forest Lake 9-12 campus: 5:30 pm-7:00pm — 308th 15th St. SW, Forest Lake

2/$6

This is a great time to meet teachers, tour the building and find out if NLA is the right fit for your family.

Enrollment is now open for the 2020-21 school year

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For More Information on the Open House, Tours and Enrollment, Call 651-797-6264

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4630 Centerville Road White Bear Lake, MN 55110 651-653-0000

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