The Citizen

FISHING FUN: Hugo Lions tournament slated for Feb. 11. PAGE 8

HOCKEY DAY MINNESOTA Welcome Hockey Fans!

Drop the Puck!

Township hosts four-day hockeyfest this weekend

BY RANDY PAULSON STAFF WRITER

WHITE BEAR

TOWNSHIP — The biggest event to occur this year in White Bear Township is here.

The first puck of Hockey Day Minnesota 2023 drops Thursday evening, and the weekend-long athletic extravaganza will last through Sunday. All the action will take place at Polar Lakes Park, located at 1280 Hammond Road.

An estimated 10,000 people are expected to attend the annual hockey event based on ticket sales as of last week. Preparing for Hockey Day has therefore been a massive undertaking, according to White Bear Township Administrator Pat Christopherson.

“We’re coordinating our staff and the whole volunteer group that’s been working on this to pull this off. We have

an appreciation for the people who have put a ton of time into this,” Christopherson said. He added that pulling off the logistics for such a large-scale, public-private event is challenging but that Hockey Day 2023 has momentum behind it and people who are completely dedicated to making it a success.

Corey Roberts, who’s on the Hockey Day Minnesota 2023 volunteer committee, praised the committee members who have devoted countless hours and resources to making Hockey Day a reality. The committee is chaired by Jon Anderson and Nick Guzzo.

“Most of us started as strangers, and came together as a team to pull this off,” Roberts said. He also noted how the tagline for the event is “more than a game.”

“This sport is so rooted in the community that it

SEE HOCKEY DAY, PAGES 2-3

Snowmobilers will trade paint at BeaterCross

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER INTERIM CITIZEN EDITOR

HUGO — Twenty years is a good, respectable age for a snowmobile. It’s broken in and reliable, and can handle a dent here and there. And it’s perfect for the first official BeaterCross snow-

mobile race.

Only sleds ages 20 and older are allowed to compete in this event, which will be hosted Jan. 28 by the Hugo Knight Riders Snowmobile Club. The day will feature a series of races in a delightful multitude of classes, in

addition to food and entertainment.

Snowmobiles built in 2002 or earlier are eligible to race.

The event hosts, Grant and Erika Whitaker, have previously held informal snowmobile events at their home, but this year’s BeaterCross will take it

up a notch and open the fun to all members of the community.

Event coordinator Andy Michels is a member of the Knight Riders and is involved in coordinating snowmobile

SEE BEATERCROSS, PAGE 11

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HOCKEY DAY: Action-packed festival

FROM PAGE 1

is more than a game; it’s their lives, in a lot of respects,” Roberts said.

To anybody who hasn’t yet decided whether they’ll attend, Roberts said they won’t regret getting tickets and experiencing Hockey Day.

“It’s going to be a spectacle,” he said.

Press Publications assembled some helpful information for those who will attend Hockey Day. Visit hockeydaymn.com and its associated social media pages throughout the event for additional information.

Where can I get tickets?

Tickets for Hockey Day

Minnesota are available at hockeydaymn.com. Individual day passes and weekend passes are available.

If I have my own vehicle, where can I park?

Parking near Polar Lakes Park will be a challenge, given how many people are expected to be coming and going to the park. It’s therefore encouraged that visitors be dropped off, park at available sites near the park or ride the free shuttle to the park.

Handicapped parking will be located near the event entrance, and VIP parking will be to the south. The parking lot at the MedTech Center to the east of the park will also be open to the public Thursday through Sunday.

How else can I get to Polar Lakes Park?

Free shuttle services will transport people to and from Polar Lakes Park throughout

Hockey Day Minnesota. Shuttles will run every 15 minutes throughout their operation. Here are the shuttle sites and hours:

Taymark Shuttle, 4875 White Bear Parkway:

• Thursday: 4:15 p.m. to midnight

• Friday: 4:15 p.m. to midnight

• Saturday: 7:45 a.m. to midnight

• Sunday: 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Trane Shuttle, 4833 White Bear Parkway

• Saturday only: 8:45 a.m. to midnight

Podvin Park/International Paper Shuttle, 1700/1699 Ninth St.

• Saturday only: 10 a.m. to midnight

High School North Campus Shuttle, 5045 Division Ave.

• Saturday only: Noon to midnight

Additionally, Carbone’s Pizzeria & Pub, Jimmy’s Food & Drink and Manitou Bar & Kitchen will provide a “hospitality bus” shuttle that will take Hockey Day attendees to and from Polar Lakes Park between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday.

The hospitality bus will start at Jimmy’s at 8 a.m., leave at 8:15 a.m. to go to Carbone’s, then leave Carbone’s after 15 minutes to head to Manitou and from there to the park. That cycle will repeat throughout the day.

The hospitality bus is free to use. The three bars providing it simply request that visitors who use the transportation

service patronize their businesses throughout the day.

Will there be food and drinks?

Several food and drink options will be at Hockey Day Minnesota’s “Town Square” area at Polar Lakes Park. Those include the following:

• Caribou Coffee iPierogi

• The Original Burrito King

• BD Sammies

• Northeast Pretzels

• Up In Smoke

• Hoppers Mini Donuts

• Portable Pub

There will also be a “Treasure Island Warming House” tent, where Carbone’s will serve personal pizzas, pop and alcoholic drink options. What should I bring and not bring?

Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather, as most activities will take place outdoors.

No bags are allowed inside Hockey Day 2023. Clutches, wristlets and wallets measuring 4-by-6-by 1.5 inches or smaller are allowed, but will be subject to inspection. There will be two ATMs on site: one in the Warming House and one in the VIP tents. Guests should bring cash, though some vendors will also accept credit cards. Chairs are not permitted, as there will be plenty of seating space on bleachers. Spectators can also watch the livestream of the games in Town Square and in the Treasure Island Warming House if they choose.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday, Jan. 26

• 4:30 p.m. — Gates and Town Square open

• 5 p.m. — Opening ceremony with VFW Post 1782 and White Bear Lake Color Guard

• 5:20 p.m. — National Anthem with Forest Lake Girls Choir 5:30 p.m. — Forest Lake vs Cretin-Derham Hall (girls)

• 7:30-10:30 p.m. — Arch Allies perform

• 8:30 p.m. — Celebrity game, featuring Ryan Carter, Thomas Vanek, Joe Dziedzic, Paul Fletcher and more

Friday, Jan. 27

• 5-10 a.m. — Gates and Warming House open for KFAN show only

• 5:30 a.m. — KFAN: The Power Trip Morning Show

• 4:30 p.m. — Gates and Town Square open

• 5:25 p.m. — Opening ceremony with VFW Post 1782 and White Bear Lake Color Guard; National Anthem with Mike Litchey

• 5:30 p.m. — St. John’s vs. Augsburg (men)

• 7:30 p.m. — White Bear Alumni Game

• 7:30 p.m. — Good for Gary performs

Saturday, Jan. 28

• 8 a.m. — Gates and Town Square open 9:30 a.m. — National Anthem with White Bear Lake Choir

• 9:30 a.m. — Stillwater vs. White Bear Lake (girls)

• 1 p.m. — Hermantown vs. Mahtomedi (boys)

• 1-3 p.m. — Dave Burkart performs

• 4:30 p.m. — Hill Murray vs. White Bear Lake (boys)

• 7 p.m. — Fireworks

• 7-11 p.m. — Tim Sigler Band performs 8:00 pm — Broadcast of Buffalo Sabres vs. Minnesota Wild game at Xcel Energy Center

Sunday, Jan. 29

• 7 a.m. — Gates and Town Square open

• 8:15 a.m. — Minnesota Warriors game 1

• 10 a.m. — Minnesota Warriors game 2

• 11:45 am — Sled hockey

• Noon to 12:30 p.m. — Chester Bay performs

• Noon to 2 p.m. — School of Rock performs

• 1:30-3 p.m. — Open skate

• 3:15-4:15 p.m. — Herb Brooke’s Foundation 3:15-5 p.m. — Jake Nelson performs

• 3:30-4 p.m. — Chester Bay performs

• 4:30-6 p.m. — United Heroes League game

• 6:15 p.m. — AFC/NFC Championship Viewing Party

651-429-9286

Hockey Day goes retro with vintage-style poster

BY JACKIE BUSSJAGER INTERIM CITIZEN EDITOR

Pucks will fly at the Hockey Day Minnesota festival in White Bear Township—and one local artist has captured the excitement in his vintage approach to the official event poster.

Steve Thomas, a Forest Lake resident, was approached by the organizers of Hockey Day Minnesota to create a poster that evoked the hockey history and hometown flavor of White Bear Township, the host site of this year’s festival. Events will take place Jan. 26-29 at Polar Lakes Park.

Thomas’ modern vintage style seemed uniquely suited to the huge event, especially considering the area’s extensive hockey history.

Part of the influence for his style comes from working in graphic design in newspapers. Visuals in the newspaper need to be bold, creative and readable at a glance: qualities that translate well to the minimalistic color blocks and line art of Thomas’ retro posters.

“A lot of inspiration comes from the early 20th century travel posters and advertising,” Thomas said. “It’s the graphic screen print look, that also includes a lot of text. When doing informational graphics, you

have to keep it somewhat simple and bold and easy to read.”

He has previously produced posters for big acts such as Pearl Jam, Blink 182 and the Pixies, as well as the 2011 commemorative poster for the Minnesota State Fair.

The poster is meant to incorporate elements from the hockey history of White Bear Township and surrounding area. The poster shows the White Bear Town Hall located in Polar Lakes Park, as well as familiar locations sch as the Hippodrome ice rink.

The poster even includes a small portrait of Frank “Moose” Goheen, a White Bear Lake native who won two U.S. Amateur Hockey Championships with the

St. Paul Athletic Club, enlisted in World War I and captained the U.S. hockey team at the 1920 Summer Olympics.

“I just wanted it to look dynamic; a large hockey player in there with some vintage gear,” Thomas said.

White Bear Lake and Bald Eagle Lake also make an appearance on the poster, and on the map of Minnesota, White Bear Township is pinpointed in the circles of the center ice like a bullseye.

Thomas added that he wanted to be sure to include a female player, because his daughter Rissa Thomas, a 9th grader, currently plays on the Centennial High School girls team. His three children occasionally make cameos in his various artwork. He also wanted to make sure a goalie was included in the work, since goalies are sometimes overlooked.

In addition to his work creating posters for prominent events and concerts, Thomas spends his time creating a wide selection of pop culture artwork including officially licensed Disney and Marvel, Star Wars and Star Trek, space travel-themed and national parks posters.

See more of his work at https://www. stevethomasart.com.

Behind the scenes: Hockey Day rink comes together

CONTRIBUTED

Local artist Steve Thomas created the unique look of this year’s Hockey Day Minnesota poster.

Rink Tec employees Florian Jackels and Mason Wiebusch work on the regulation hockey rink and surrounding bleachers at Polar Lakes Park in White Bear Township in preparation

the Hockey Day Minnesota event that will take place Thursday through Sunday.

The Hockey Day Minnesota rink at Polar Lakes Park will be packed with hockey fans Thursday through Sunday. The annual hockeyfest will feature several games of the sport

music, fireworks and more.

The official event poster designed by Steve Thomas.

Hockey Day Minnesota

HOCKEY DAY MINNESOTA will be celebrated at Polar Lakes Park in White Bear Township this week, Jan. 26-29. The four-day event will include outdoor hockey with girls and boys high school teams, college teams, and alumni and all-star teams as well as many other entertaining events. Go online to hockeydaymn.com to get details. Planning for the event goes back to 2017.

About the Town

Gene Johnson

Hockey is big time in Minnesota. Hockey Day began in 2007 and is celebrated like the Minnesota fishing opener.

White Bear has members in the Hockey Hall of Fame at Eveleth. The boys have made 19 state tournament appearances over the years, but never won the title.

Let’s all celebrate.

WE ARE STAYING in Minnesota this winter. As many know, our boat was destroyed by Hurricane Ian when it hit Fort Myers, Florida in Sept. We are enjoying the heavy snowfall and now the January thaw, but there is something else we are enjoying. When in Florida, we would drive 16 miles east to have broasted chicken at the Alva Diner with country-style dining. It was reasonable and good. Now we found that true with a couple of local restaurants. On a recent Thursday night we enjoyed broasted chicken at the Blacksmith Lounge in Hugo. When owner George Reus died last year, his two daughters, Jennifer Ehlert and Georgie Gibbons, stepped up to the plate to take over.

MY WIFE KATHY was with her doctor for an annual checkup this past week. The key advice from the staff at Vadnais Heights Clinic was, “Be careful on the ice. Walk like a penguin.”

The following day I was visiting with Dr. Sarah Boo and told her about it. “Being careful on the ice is called the Minnesota shuffle,” she responded. Our daughter Stephanie added, “When inside a home or business, it is the Minnesota stomp your feet.”

SCIENTISTS NOW FINALLY admit that weather proverbs are true. The following is from the Boys Town Farmers’ Almanac. “Pay attention to winds and clouds. These are the big predictors of changes in barometric pressure and resulting weather. For instance, the adage ‘No weather is ill if the wind be still’ indicates a high pressure system, a broad area of descending air characterized by calm winds and little cloud formations.”

In February there is always one fine weather week. If bees get out in February, the next day will be windy and rainy. Fogs in February mean frosts in May. Winter’s back breaks about the middle of February.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

The Anatomy of a Traffic Stop

Aside from receiving a citation, that traffic stop was uneventful.

A vast majority of traffic stops are considered to be “routine.” These stops usually last between 3-7 minutes. During these stops the officers will advise the driver of the infraction in hopes to provide education to the driver. The officer will then run the driver’s license information, return to the car, provide some sort of disposition to the driver, and ultimately send the driver on their way.

When considering the issuance of a citation, the officer has made that decision prior to getting out of their squad car. Most of these decisions are usually based on the severity of the offense. In my adolescence case, I was obviously traveling too fast.

Movers & Shakers

Capt. Pat Aldrich

Atraffic stop can create just as much anxiety for an officer as it does for the driver who is being stopped. We, as officers, have been trained to “expect the unexpected.” But what does that mean? Being a 24-year veteran of the Centennial Lakes Police Department, I have attended hundreds of hours of training involving traffic stops. Whether it is scenario-based training or watching videos of past traffic stops, a common theme is that officers do not have any idea of who or what they are stopping. During my career, I have stopped thousands of motorists and I have experienced a wide variety of resolutions to these traffic stops. When I was 16 years old, I was stopped by St. Paul’s finest for speeding. I was caught driving over the posted speed limit on a residential street. As I was speaking to the officer, he noticed I was nervous, and was able to get me to relax through conversation. The fact that I remember being nervous, and that the officer had a positive disposition, it has helped me understand the impact and importance that any traffic stop can have on both parties involved.

• Limited to 350 words.

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

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There are plenty of examples of how traffic stops can go bad. When we as law enforcement officers are in training, it is not focused on our reactions to routine traffic stops, but more geared toward adverse interactions. The idea is to make sure officers do not treat all traffic stops as routine. If they were to become complacent during a potentially dangerous stop, it could be a life-threatening experience. We must be aware there are people with bad intentions, as well as situations where people may become desperate as a result of their misfortunes. Although these instances are rare, they are realities which we as officers cannot afford to misjudge.

THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES

at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

Just as drivers have a natural nervous reaction to being stopped, officers can experience similar nervousness when the stop is no longer routine. Anytime an officer makes a traffic stop, a driver’s actions, especially through their communication, can instantly change that officer’s demeanor. If the officer feels challenged by any type of verbal confrontation or non-compliance, the officer’s reaction could go one of two ways. The officer could remain poised and professional and focus on the task at hand or they could respond unpleasantly which would create more consternation.

Through our training we have been introduced to more de-escalation tactics. The focus is for officers to be able to recognize the difference between a driver’s reactions caused by their anxiety, those situations where an individual may have bad intentions or they are under the influence of alcohol or a mind-altering drug. De-escalation is not just used for hostile situations. Recognizing and addressing behavior during the early stages of an event may produce more desirable outcomes. Our hope is officers will continue to manage adverse scenarios through conversation to keep everyone at ease. After all, we are all human. Call us if you need us.

Pat Aldrich is a captain in the Centennial Lakes Police Department.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• Submissions containing facts not previously published in The Citizen must be accompanied by factual verification.

• All letters are subject to editing.

• Deadline is 5 p. m., Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

• To submit a letter, e-mail it to citizennews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

Willful ignorance?

In a recent email regarding President Biden’s visit to the U.S. southern border, Rep. Pete Stauber states this: “Joe has a hard enough time finding words, let alone a border.”

President Biden stuttered as a child. I don’t know what road he traveled to overcome that, but he has overcome it and become the President of the United States. What a great role model for youth with disabilities of any kind.

I am a person with a disability, I have a daughter with a disability, and I work for people with disabilities as a direct support professional. All of these people with disabilities, including myself, are successful, contributing members of society despite our apparent disabilities.

I am truly appalled at Stauber’s offhand, derogatory comment about the president’s speech. I expect more decency and awareness from an elected official. The offhand nature of the comment is belittling and insulting to people with disabilities, speech or otherwise. It displays an ignorance of the value of others based on their meeting someone’s standard of neurotypical behavior.

A comment like Rep. Stauber’s does not bring me down. I know that it comes from a place of ignorance. But I hope that it does not come from a place of any real contempt for people with disabilities. I hope that this comment does not reflect a broader distain for the contribution that people with disabilities bring to society.

Will Perry, DSP Hugo

Two kudos

First is to all the Hugo Postal workers for their hard work and long hours in getting us our mail every day, especially through inclement weather. Not every city is as fortunate.

Second is to the Public Works Department in getting our roads cleared, as it has certainly been a challenging winter.

Thanks to you both.

Classes will start soon at WBLAHS North Campus addition

BY RANDY PAULSON STAFF WRITER

commence. That work will last through 2024, with the unification of grades 9-12 to begin in fall 2024 at North Campus.

Floreen Meyer Hugo

On page 17 of the Jan. 12 edition of The Citizen, it stated that the “BeaterCross” event would be held at the Blacksmith Lounge. “BeaterCross” will actually be held at the Whitaker residence at 7195 137th St. on Jan. 28, and the “Older the Better” vintage snowmobile show will be held at the Blacksmith Lounge on Feb. 4. See more about BeaterCross on pages 1 & 11. Press Publications regrets these errors.

WHITE BEAR LAKE

— The last Monday of this month will be the start of a new era at White Bear Lake Area High School’s North Campus.

That day, Jan. 30, is when students, faculty and staff at the grades 9-10 building will begin their first day of classes in the newly built addition.

The transition into the new space is the culmination of more than a year of construction work on the addition, which began in summer 2021. The project was one of several the district OK’d in its 2019 “Building Our Future” bond referendum.

The three-story, 250,000-square-foot classroom addition is arranged into nine “studios,” one of which contains temporary office space and another which holds the media center. The remaining seven studios are learning pods that include six classrooms, conference rooms, individual and group workspaces, teacher workspaces and intervention space.

The seven classroom studios will be organized by academic subject area to maximize collaboration among students and teaching staff. Each studio has a wall with windows to let in natural lighting.

Three classrooms in each studio will be situated next to each other in a row and be separated by moveable walls that can be opened up to combine rooms. One of those classrooms will also contain interactive, touchscreen TVs and other specialized technology offerings.

Separate from the learning studios will be new art, automotive, science, welding and construction labs located on the ground floor of the new addition.

The addition also has a slew of safety features, such as secure entrances, an upgraded camera system, an electronic locking system, perimeter door monitoring and visual notification lights. The doors to each studio can be locked down in emergencies, with only permitted key holders able to gain entry. The studios also have rear stairways that provide an emergency exit route.

Besides the three-story classroom structure, the North Campus addition includes a new 92,000-square-foot fieldhouse. The fieldhouse consists of the following features:

• Five new full-sized court surfaces — three wood courts and two with multipurpose flooring — that can be separated with curtains.

• 200-meter, five-lane indoor track that encompasses the courts on the lower level. It includes a long-jump pit.

• Four-lane walking track on the upper level that will be open to the community.

• Auxiliary gym that can double as a storm shelter.

• Wrestling room.

• Fitness gym.

• Equipment storage.

Moving into the addition will free up the existing North Campus building so renovations on it can

Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center  6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville  Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site  14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo

Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center  6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville  www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937 761757

Masses:

Five new full-sized court surfaces are included in the North Campus’ new fieldhouse addition. The courts, which can be separated by curtains, are encompassed by a five-lane track on the lower level and a four-lane track on the upper level.

The new student Union at the North Campus addition will contain the cafeteria and will connect the academic and athletic wings of the building.

PHOTOS BY RANDY PETERSON | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

North Campus Principal Angela Nelson and Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Tim Wald lead the way into the North Campus’ new addition, set to open Jan. 30.

Flay Avenue residents don’t want business in the backyard

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER INTERIM CITIZEN EDITOR

HUGO — A business zone in downtown Hugo will stay a business zone … for now. But some residents of Flay Avenue are determined to convince the city to change their neighborhood, which includes several young families, to residential-only.

Only 60 percent of the property owners in the Flay Avenue neighborhood signed their name to a petition to rezone their neighborhood to exclude commercial businesses—not enough to convince the City Council just yet.

Right now, the area of Flay Avenue north of Subway and 147th Street N. is zoned Future Central Business (FCB) as part of the city’s downtown development plan. Parcels in this type of district are essentially set aside in the hope a business will apply to develop them — all it takes is a request to the City Council to get the individual property rezoned for commercial use. Single-family homes are also permitted within this type of zone, which is likely to blame for some of the confusion.

But Flay Avenue residents aren’t excited to see this kind of growth when it pushes into their homes.

When Shane and Alex Rooney moved into the community in the last year, they thought their neighborhood was residential, and weren’t expecting a bank branch to move in next door. Their property is close to the entrance to the Premier Bank, which was constructed in the neighborhood in summer 2022. Shane expressed the personal concern for

his family’s safety from having a well-visited business nearby, located on a dead-end road in a secluded neighborhood.

“I don’t want a Wendy’s next to my house,” Shane said. “I just bought my house a year ago. It’s not a business area. We do not want this to be business. The bank going in was a hard hit for us. How many people are going to be driving down this road as my kids are on their bikes? I wouldn’t have moved out there if I would have known that. It’s a family neighborhood.”

Alex added that some neighbors who didn’t sign the petition were apathetic rather than unsupportive— they didn’t seem to believe that more businesses would be likely to come along anytime soon, and therefore didn’t see the need to request rezoning.

“They don’t see the point,” she said. “We don’t even have a sidewalk on our street. The more traffic you add to that street, the more dangerous it is for our kids.”

Members of the City Council were more than happy to give the residents more time to collect signatures before making a decision. City staff will send a letter to the neighborhood households, stating that the petition was received and rezoning to residential may be considered in the future if all the property owners sign the petition.

The matter is now in the hands of Flay Avenue residents, who can bring it back for council consideration if and when they are able to collect more signatures.

Hugo farmer wins runner-up in ag competition

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico —

Kristy Miron of Hugo finished as runner-up in the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Young Farmers & Ranchers Excellence in Ag competition, held during the organization’s convention Jan. 6-9 in San Juan.

Miron received a $25,000 credit toward a new piece of equipment from sponsor Case IH.

“I am grateful and humbled for the opportunity I had to represent my family and Minnesota Farm Bureau in Puerto Rico,” said Miron. “It was an honor to share my story and passion for agriculture leadership. I look forward to building on this experience and the chapters I will write in the future.”

The Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes young farmers and ranchers who do not derive the majority of their income from an agricultural operation, but who actively contribute and grow through their involvement in agriculture,

leadership ability and participation in Farm Bureau and other organizations.

From press release

The purpose ofthisreportisto provide summary2023 budgetinformation concerning the CityofHugo to interested citizens.Thisbudgetispublished in accordance with Minn.Stat.Sec.471.6965.Thisbudgetis notcomplete;the complete budgetmaybe examined atCityHall,14669 Fitzgerald Avenue,Hugo,MN. The CityCouncilapproved thisbudgeton December5,2022.

Published one time in The Citizen on January 26, 2023.

CITY OF HUGO

WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

2023 BIRCH TREE PONDS AREA STREET IMPROVEMENTS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of 2023 Birch Tree Ponds Area Street Improvements will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 2:00 pm local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Hugo will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 1.312.626.6799 and entering Meeting ID 989 1546 7965 and Passcode 322216. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening.

The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of the following approximate quantities:

The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Hugo shall comply with the provisions of the statute.

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www.questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #8366629 on the website’s Project Search page.

The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources.

Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.

The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days. For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

DATED: January 9, 2023 BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Michele Lindau, City Clerk, City of Hugo, MN

Published two times in The Citizen on January 26 and February 9, 2023.

CITY OF HUGO

HUGO CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING AND LOCAL BOARD

SUBMITTED

Kristy Miron accepts an Excellence in Ag Award from the American Farm Bureau Federation.

If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet. 651-407-1200 | presspubs.com

COPS&COURTS

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents:

• An unidentified motorist was arrested for DWI at 1:27 a.m. Dec. 11 in the 4000 block of Rosemary Way N. after Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop for failure to dim high beams for oncoming traffic within 1,000 feet.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 7:48 a.m. Dec. 11 on westbound 170th Street N. and Ingersoll Avenue N. for speeding 64 mph in a 55 mph zone by east-facing deputies in their marked squad on stationary patrol, who clocked the vehicle on radar at 67 mph. The driver admitted to going close to 70 mph. A westbound motorist was cited at 8:12 a.m. that day at the same location for speeding 75 mph in a 55 mph zone by deputies who hadn’t moved from their station and who clocked the vehicle on radar at 75 mph.

searched it and found a green, leafy substance and drug paraphernalia, which they seized.

• A motorist with multiple active warrants was arrested at 5:10 a.m. Dec. 13 on Forest Blvd. N. and 165th Street N. after deputies conducted a traffic stop.

• Westbound deputies cited an eastbound motorist on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. at 10:10 a.m. Dec. 13 for speeding 35 mph in a 30 mph zone, after radar registered the vehicle’s speed at 40 mph.

The driver admitted to going 40 mph and his or her attitude was described as “very

• A northbound motorist was issued a written warning at 4:01 p.m. Dec. 11 on Forest Blvd. N. at Frenchman Road for displaying tabs that expired in July 2022.

• A southbound motorist was cited at 5:50 p.m. Dec. 11 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for failure to drive with due care, after being pulled over for speeding 50 mph in a 35 mph zone. During the stop, deputies detected the odor of weed and conducted a search of the vehicle. The marijuana joint and used THC cartridge were seized to be destroyed.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 8:45 a.m. Dec. 12 in the 13000 block of southbound Keller Avenue N. for speeding 50 mph in a 45 mph zone by northbound deputies, who clocked the vehicle on radar at 62 mph. The driver admitted to going over the speed limit.

• A motorist was cited at 10:54 p.m. Dec. 12 in the 5000 block of 125th Street N. for driving after revocation and for failure to provide proof of insurance. He was pulled over for failure to drive in a single lane.

• A driver deputies described as “argumentative” was cited at 2:02 a.m. Dec. 13 on Forest Blvd. N. and 159th Street N. for speeding 46 mph in a 35 mph zone.

After deputies detected the odor of fresh marijuana coming from the vehicle, they

• A motorist was cited for failure to display current registration, failure to provide proof of insurance and for possessing 1.4 grams of marijuana in a motor vehicle, after being pulled over on Forest Blvd. N. and 141st Street N. at 3:45 p.m. Dec. 14 for no front license plate and tabs that expired in August 2022. Deputies seized the marijuana, paraphernalia and used THC cartridges they found during the vehicle search.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 5:16 p.m. Dec. 14 on Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue N. for failure to provide proof of insurance and for displaying registration that had expired more than six months prior, following a traffic stop for displayed tabs that expired in May 2022. A further check of the license plate showed the vehicle had a new plate assigned to it for alcohol violations. Deputies advised the driver to obtain insurance before driving again.

• A motorist was cited at 6:32 p.m. Dec. 14 on Frenchman Road and Forest Blvd. N. for making a right-hand turn on a red light without stopping. As deputies observed the violation in progress, they noted there were no other signals on the semaphore that might have allowed the vehicle to make the turn without stopping.

• The driver of a small sedan was cited for speeding 66 mph in a 45 mph zone at 5:27 p.m. Dec. 18 in the 15000 block of Foxhill Avenue N. after deputies on patrol observed the vehicle on northbound Forest Blvd. N. The driver admitted to going 60 mph, but said he didn’t know the posted limit.

• A motorist was issued a written warning at 11:21 p.m. Dec. 18 on Forest Blvd. N. and 125th Street N. for driving with an expired license and failure to present an insurance card on demand, after being pulled over for failure to drive in a single lane.

• A motorist displaying a Minnesota temporary tag was cited at 11:38 p.m. Dec. 18 on Francesca Avenue N. and 148th Street N. for driving after suspension, after deputies conducted a National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database check. The temporary tag has also expired eight days earlier and was part of the citation.

• While deputies were at the scene of a vehicle lockout in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 9:38 p.m. Dec. 19, a male approached the people deputies were assisting and asked them if they were 21 years old. The male also asked if they would buy him Swishers sweet cigars and/or alcohol. As soon as deputies finished assisting the locked-out couple, they followed up on the potentially underaged consumption issues. But by then, the male was gone.

• At 12:31 a.m. Dec. 20, deputies conducted a warrant arrest in the area of 170th Street N. and Jeffrey Avenue N.

• Deputies issued a citation to the windshield of a vehicle violating the city’s winter parking ordinance at 3:19 a.m. Dec. 22 in the area of Victor Path and Victor Hugo Blvd., following the end of the cyclone bomb blizzard of Dec. 21. Four other registered owners were cited for illegal parking that night.

• Deputies on patrol in the 5000 block of Frenchman Road at 7:55 a.m. Dec. 26 conducted a random license plate check of a vehicle that showed registration that expired in September 2022.

pulled the vehicle over, they noticed the expired tabs in person and cited its driver.

A different motorist was also cited at 6:45 p.m. that day on Frenchman Road for the same violation.

• A snowmobile operator was issued a written warning at 1:53 p.m. Dec. 26 in the 16000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for failure to stop. Deputies issued seven written warnings to snowmobilers that week.

• An adult male was arrested on a warrant at 5:00 p.m. Dec. 26 in the 5000 block of Evergreen Drive N.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 10:04 a.m. Dec. 27 on westbound 170th Street N. at Ingersoll Avenue N. for speeding 73 mph in a 55 mph zone by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol, who clocked the vehicle on radar.

Loretta Harding

DNR urges snowmobile riders to ride safely

Recent heavy snowfall has made for excellent snowmobiling conditions throughout the state, so the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) wants to remind eager riders to make safety a priority.

“Opportunities to ride snowmobiles are entirely dependent upon the weather, and in years when there’s a lot of snow, like this year, we see an uptick in riders,” said Capt. Jon Paurus, DNR Enforcement education program coordinator. “It’s imperative that anyone who plans to head out makes good decisions and keeps safety at the top of their mind.”

Already this snowmobile season, too many rides have ended in tragedy. While the DNR doesn’t yet have official reports for all fatalities, preliminary reports indicate

six riders have died in crashes this season — that’s the same number as the entire 2021-2022 snowmobile season and double the number of the 2020-2021 season. Eleven snowmobile riders died in 2019-2020 and 10 died in 2018-2019.

To ensure a safe ride:

• Stay on marked trails. Minnesota’s snowmobile clubs work hard to maintain good riding conditions on the state’s trails. Riders who stay on groomed trails are less likely to strike an obstacle or trespass onto private property.

(Civil penalties for snowmobile trespass have doubled this year.) Riders can check trail conditions on the DNR website at mndnr.gov/snow_depth before heading out.

• Don’t ride impaired. Drinking and riding is a primary cause of crashes and plays a role in about 60% of

those that are fatal.

• Watch your speed and stay to the right. Going too fast is another main cause of crashes. Many serious and fatal crashes occur when a speeding snowmobiler loses control or strikes an object. When meeting another snowmobile, always slow down and stay to the right.

• Be careful on the ice. In recent years, nearly every through-the-ice fatality has involved people who were riding a snowmobile or allterrain 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. Check the ice thickness as you go.

• 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.

website (mndnr.gov/ snowmobiling/safety.html). Minnesota Department

of Natural Resources

This driver, however, admitted to traveling close to 58 mph, after which deputies described the motorist’s attitude as only “fair.”

good” in the reports. The driver was verbally warned about not having a driver’s license in possession.

The driver finally managed to produce an insurance card at the end of the traffic stop.

When deputies

Catches big and small will make the cut in Lions Club fishing tournament

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER INTERIM CITIZEN EDITOR

MAY TOWNSHIP —

There are many ways to be a winner at this year’s Hugo Lions Club Ice Fishing Tournament, where biggest isn’t necessarily best.

The third annual tournament will kick off at 10 a.m. Feb. 11 on Big Marine Lake, with prizes for first fish, most fish caught and even best fishing hat, in addition to the usual largest-catch awards.

“Even a fish stick of a perch, or a potato chip of a sunny, those will count,” said event coordinator Chris Clausen.

The day will include raffle prizes from a bevy of sponsors such as Joe’s Sporting Goods. Hot dogs and chili will be available for purchase, complete with delivery service so you don’t have to look away from your ice hole for a second.

Proceeds from the event will go toward the Hugo Lions Club for maintenance and improvements at Veterans Campground on Big Marine Lake, and toward the White Bear Lake High School Fishing Club.

WASHINGTON COUNTY BRIEFS

Members of the fishing club will be on site during the tournament to help drill holes and operate the fish weighing station.

One of the grand prizes of the day is a free weekend stay at the Veterans Campground, which is normally only open to veterans and their families. This prize will include a full-day pontoon rental.

New this year, the tournament is allowing portable ice houses. Since the event is meant to be family-friendly, kids should be comfort-

‘Bathe’ in the county park forests in 2023

Washington County Parks will feature four forest bathing sessions throughout 2023 in four different county parks.

Experience an ancient wellness practice being rediscovered anew in the 21st century. Join the group for an immersive, meditative and awe-inspiring Japanese forest bathing experience (ShinrinYoku).

The 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. sessions are planned for:

• Feb. 11 at Pine Point Regional Park;

• May 20 at Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park;

• June 10 at St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park; and

• Oct. 14 at Lake Elmo Park Reserve.

FILE

able and having fun on the ice, the Lions reasoned.

“Last year was brutally cold,” Clausen said. “We definitely suffered. I can sit on the ice all day long and be fine, but kids get cold. Not all kids are into hockey or basketball or cross-country skiing. We want to make sure ice fishing is a great sport to have fun at too.”

Entry is $20, kids 12 and under are free. Registration opens at 9 a.m. Feb. 11. Learn more about the event on the Hugo MN Lions Facebook page.

The practice encourages people to simply spend time in nature — no actual bathing required. It’s also very low impact, which means there are no intense trail runs or hikes. The goal of forest bathing is to live in the present moment while immersing the senses in the sights and sounds of a natural setting.

See firsthand how nature’s fractals, sounds and sensations reduce stress and anxiety and enhance focus. Give yourself permission to slow down and connect your senses to the healing beauty of the county’s green forested spaces.

Space is limited for the

Carstenbrock will serve on Mental Health Advisory Committee

Natalie Carstenbrock, Cottage Grove, will serve a first term as the District 4 representative on the Mental Health Advisory Committee. Carstenbrock was appointed by the Washington County Board of Commissioners Jan. 17. She will serve until the end of 2025.

Board approves application for Pheasants Forever gambling permit

Commissioners approved an application by Pheasants Forever for an exempt lawful gambling permit Jan. 17. The organization plans to conduct a raffle at the Washington County Fairgrounds in February.

After approval by the county board, the application will be sent to the Minnesota State Gambling Board for its consideration.

County will use HealthPartners donation to ensure residents receive Medicaid assistance

Washington County will use an $85,000 donation from HealthPartners to assist residents in maintaining their enrollment in Medicaid. The county board accepted the grant Jan. 17. With the wind-down of the public health emergency triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, many public assistance program changes will go into effect. Among the most critical are the thousands of health care renewals that have accumulated during the past two-plus years of the pandemic.

Washington County will hire case managers to enable the county to be proactive in preparing for the end of the Public Health Emergency. In 2022, between 900 and 1,700 cases required renewal each month. The numbers are expected to be the same or higher in 2023.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services has been urging counties to make sure that they have the correct, current addresses of all of its enrollees to ensure that people will receive their renewals when they become mandatory to complete. Staff hired with the donation funds will do this work.

Bolton & Menk will do community engagement, design for CSAH 12 improvements

Bolton & Menk will assist with community engagement and complete design on three projects that will improve County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 12 in Grant and Mahtomedi.

Commissioners approved a $549,722 contract with the company Jan. 17.

The work will combine three projects in road and trail improvements. They are:

• a roadway improvement project for CSAH 12 (75th Street North) from East Avenue/Hallam Avenue South to Kimbro Avenue North;

• a trail construction project from East Avenue/Hallam Avenue to County Highway 9 (Jamaca Avenue) that will construct a new trail connection along the south side of County Highway 12; and

• pavement preservation and rehabilitation to include pavement and multiuse trail resurfacing from County Highway 9 (Jamaca Avenue) to Kimbro Avenue.

The three projects will be bundled under one design contract.

The project will include the last phase of reconstructing 2.7 miles in Willernie and Mahtomedi, the rural two-lane undivided roadway just outside of the downtown area.

The main objectives of the bundled project are to:

• improve pavement;

• reduce short- and long-term maintenance costs;

• construct a new traffic signal at CSAH 12 and East/Hallam Avenue;

• review horizontal and vertical alignment of the roadway for safety improvements;

• add trail connections and improve pedestrian accessibility and safety; and

• design appropriate drainage improvements to manage surface water and improve its quality.

The contract will include project coordination of the final design, public engagement, environmental investigations and utility coordination necessary to deliver the project. The project is scheduled for construction in 2024. The contract will be funded through highway state aid and local contributions.

County receives grants to do habitat restoration in county parks

Washington County will receive two conservation legacy grants to do conservation-restoration work in county parks, after the county board accepted the grants totaling $72,500 Jan. 17.

The first grant of $50,000 was received to restore 18 acres of oak savanna within Lake Elmo Park Reserve. Prairie and oak savanna are key habitats within the St. Paul Baldwin Plains and Moraines Ecological Subsection and contain the rarest plant, pollinator and wildlife communities. Project expenses for the restoration project will include contracted services for the removal of box elder trees to restore the oak savanna canopy. Removal of the box elder trees will encourage desirable groundcover, shrubs and trees that benefit wildlife species that require

program. The cost is $40 per person each session, and a Washington County park vehicle permit is required ($7/daily or $30/annual). Register online at www.co.washington.mn.us/ parks.

For more information on Washington County Parks locations, programs and events, see www.co.washington.mn.us/ parks. Follow Washington County Parks on social media at @WashCountyParks.

an oak savanna habitat. A 10% inkind match is required, which will be covered by staff time to plan and implement the project.

The second grant, totaling $22,500, was received for Pine Point East Prairie and Savanna Restoration and will go toward restoring an 11-acre agricultural field into a diverse prairie to support at-risk pollinators and other species of greatest conservation need. Project expenses for the restoration project include the purchase of seed and plants. The county 10% match will consist of staff time planting the prairie with a seed drill and coordination with volunteers.

The grants are part of the Outdoor Heritage Fund, one of four funds established by the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. Funding is appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature and recommended by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC).

County board accepts donations to county in 4th quarter 2022

Commissioners accepted donations received by the county in the fourth quarter of 2022 at their Jan. 17 meeting.

The Library received cash donations of $2,065.73 from individuals and from donation boxes. Parks received cash donations of $3,139.51 from exhibit donations at the Historic Courthouse, the trail enhancement fund, and the Living Forest and Milkweed for Monarchs programs. The Sheriff’s Office received $470 for its Explorers Program and the Shop With A Cop program.

In-kind donations included merchandise and gift cards totaling $852 to support the Christmas at the Courthouse event.

The Hugo Lions invite the community to a family-friendly day on the ice.

Discover kindergarten at Liberty Liberty Classical Academy is hosting a kindergarten open house from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 26. The event will be held at the school’s Hugo Campus

Library, 10158 122nd Street N. Liberty offers a half-day morning program and extended afternoon programming. At the open house, prospective families will learn about a

typical kindergarten day, meet teachers and see demonstrations of classroom learning with current students.

RSVP is requested at libertyclassicalacademy.org/kindergarten-win-

ter-2023-open-house. The Hugo Campus is located at 10158 122nd Street N., Hugo.

BEATERCROSS: Hugo snowmobile club promises a day of friendly competition

FROM PAGE 1

events Triplefest in Pequot Lakes and the Midwest Extreme Snowmobile Challenge. The Knight Riders club has been a meaningful part of his life since he moved to Hugo in 2019.

“I found great sense of community when my wife and I moved into Hugo,” Michels said. “I met a lot of people, and a fun group of people passionate about a sport and their community.”

The snowmobile club members realize they aren’t always seen kindly by neighbors, who might be annoyed at the disturbance. This event is one way in which the snowmobile club hopes to extend a hand to the community and invite them to share in the fun.

BeaterCross will have food vendors, T-shirts and swag, and bonfires where attendees can warm up. Kids 12 and under can attend for free; the races are meant to be a family-friendly event. Adults can purchase beer and White Claws (but not racers: see page 7 for a few reminders about snowmobile safety).

Snowmobilers can compete in variety of classes, including kids’ class, pro class, sport class, triple class, women’s class and even a buddy race where two drivers have to switch off after every lap.

The show will go down on a small-format track, limited to 25 mph.

SUBMITTED

Snowmobiles made in or before 2002 can participate in a new snowmobile race hosted by the Hugo Knight Riders on Jan. 28.

“Rubbin’ is racin,” Michels said. “We’re bouncing off each other in the corners. It’s going to be a slow format but very competitive.”

A professional announcer will be on hand to narrate the action and interview racers, and trophies will be awarded at the Hugo American Legion Post 620

after the end of the day.

“We hope to turn it into something to look forward to year after year. A legacy event,” said Michels. BeaterCross will take place at 10 a.m. Jan. 28 at Snowmax Performance, 7195 137th St. N., Hugo. Tickets are $10 at the entrance; kids 12 and under are free. Learn more by visiting the Hugo Knight Riders Snowmobile Club Facebook page or the Washington County Star Trail Association website at www.startrail.org.

Winter plungers turn cold hard ice into cold hard cash

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER INTERIM CITIZEN EDITOR

FOREST LAKE — How much would it take to convince you to jump into a frozen lake? For participants in the Forest Lake Rotary’s annual Winter Plunge, raising some cash for the cause of their choice is all the motivation they need.

The Winter Plunge, scheduled for Feb. 18, is designed to support local nonprofit organizations, civic clubs such as the Rotary and Lions, school booster clubs, youth sports organizations, animal shelters and many others. Since 2010, the Winter Plunge has raised more than $969,000 for local organizations.

Team members collect donation pledges through the Rotary’s website, and then put on a pretty good show diving into Forest Lake—often in coordinated costumes— which the whole community is invited to come out and watch.

The event is always a good way for different groups in the community to connect. This year, the first 15 participants to sign up will be able to have a table for their cause during registration at the Lone Oak Grill the morning of the event.

Angie Comstock is a Forest Lake Rotary Club member and one of the chief organizers of this year’s Winter Plunge. This year’s event is all about giving maximum opportunities to meet fundraising goals, Comstock explained.

Registration opened in December, earlier than usual, to give teams extra time to collect pledges.

This year’s event includes more than a month of lead-up challenges before the big event. Teams are able to participate in Challenge Pot competitions, a series of mini-goals that award money prizes between $25 and $200. These include the Happy Holidays challenge (teams and individuals with the biggest increase in donations Dec. 1228); the Valentine’s Day Challenge (the top two individuals to raise the most between Feb. 12 and 14); and the Ugly Sweater Challenge (selfexplanatory).

This challenge money goes directly to the winner’s team, without being split among Winter Plunge participants. So far, the event organizers have rewarded $400 in Challenge Pot funds.

“It’s just kind of a way to encourage people to participate more with our Facebook page and gain extra donations without having to do much for them,” Comstock said.

The biggest challenge is the Championship Challenge Pot, which will be awarded the day of the event. This prize will go to the team that has collected the most in donations by the day of the event. Currently, that prize is worth $200, but Comstock expects it will still grow as community sponsors donate leading up to the event.

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The next Challenge Pot will be the Groundhog Day Challenge (team with the most donations between Feb. 2 and 4).

The scene should be exciting on the day of the plunge. Last year, the Royal Order of the Klondike Kates (of Saint Paul Winter Carnival fame) opened the event, and Comstock hopes to secure them once again to kick things off.

There will be plenty of room on the ice for spectators to bring their vehicles and tailgate on the ice, and some of the nearby restaurants will be offering specials for the event. As a bonus, the Kids Pro Ice Snowmobile Racing organization will be holding races on the lake at the same time, giving spectators an opportunity to move back and forth between the two events.

Comstock expressed a deep thank you from the Rotary Club to the many event sponsors, without whom the Winter Plunge wouldn’t be possible.

The plunge will take

place 12 p.m. at Lakefront Memorial Park on Feb. 18. Registration and check-in will take place starting at 9:30 a.m. at the Lone Oak Grill (55

PHOTOS BY LAKES AREA TELEVISION

Lake Street North).

It’s not too late for anyone interested in signing up, Comstock said. Learn more about the Winter Plunge

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Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

Entering this week, January was averaging nearly 8º warmer than normal and I’ve yet to register a below 0º this month. Normally we average 14 days below 0º in January. This past Monday was the first day with sun since January 15, a span of 7 days of clouds and fairly mild temperatures.

We picked up an additional 5.5 inches of snow, bringing our monthly total to 19.7 inches and our seasonal total to 52.8 inches. As luck would have it, ours is about to run out. The Polar Vortex is gaining strength and repositioning to bring us a blast of Arctic air for this weekend and into next week.

Note: My 2023 weather calendar is available at Lake Country Bookseller in Downtown White Bear Lake or visit WeathermanWatson.com to order. Thanks for your support!

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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.

RUFF RESCUE PET OF THE WEEK

Chi Chi is a handsome, sweet and gentle Rottweiler/Labrador retriever mix. He is just over a year old and weighs about 40 pounds. Chi Chi is friendly with other people once he gets to know them, and he is social with other pets. He likes to go on walks and explore, and when he’s not outside or playing, Chi Chi loves to snuggle. He is a loverboy who likes neck scratches, belly rubs or just being petted. In fact, when he’s curled up next to you, if you pause, he will remind you he’s still there with a gentle paw on your arm or hand. Chi Chi is house-trained, and when his people are away he does well in a confined room. With time and built trust, he should eventually do fine left in the house by himself.

Chi Chi is intelligent and eager to please. He knows some basic commands and would do well in a formal training program. He is treat-motivated, so training

should come relatively easily. If you are interested in learning more about Chi Chi or adopting him, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

5 easy ways to get outdoors this winter

Wondering how to get outside and enjoy the outdoors this winter? The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has some great no- and low-cost activities open to everyone.

“We know Minnesotans love being outdoors, and winter offers a whole different way to play outside,” said Ann Pierce, DNR parks and trails director.

The DNR offers several suggestions to make getting outdoors easy, fun and affordable for Minnesotans:

Get a vehicle permit

Vehicle permits are required to visit state parks and recreation areas. The cost is $7 per day or $35 for an annual permit. Permits can be purchased at a park office, or visitors can save time by purchasing online before heading to the park. Park permits can be purchased on the DNR website (mndnr. gov/ParkPermit).

The DNR also offers free park permits through its library program. More than 100 libraries across Minnesota offer seven-day permits that people can check out at no cost.

“The library park pass program is a terrific way to access state parks for free,” Pierce said. “It’s one way we’re removing barriers to getting outdoors and enjoying the beauty of Minnesota’s state parks.”

A list of participating libraries is on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/LibraryPass).

Try winter camping

Winter camping is offered at 25 state parks and recreation areas. For visitors looking for a warmer overnight stay, many state parks offer heated camper cabins with electricity and yurts with wood stoves that are open year-round. Camper cabins accommodate up to six people, while yurts hold three to seven people. Pets are not allowed inside

HUGO CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS

camper cabins or yurts.

Find the winter camping guide (mndnr.gov/State_Parks/Winter_Camping) on the DNR website, as well as information on staying in camper cabins (mndnr.gov/CamperCabins) or yurts (mndnr.gov/Yurts).

Look into family-friendly events

Events and programs are scheduled at state parks throughout the winter season, offering a wide range of activities, including escape rooms, interpretive hikes, crafting, education about

Council members Becky Petryk and Dave Strub are the council members who were most recently sworn in to their seats on the Hugo City Council, preceded by Mayor Tom Weidt a few days earlier.

park wildlife and more.

“Whether you want to learn, or be physically active, or both, you’re sure to find an event that fits you,” Pierce said. “State parks and trails events are suitable for beginners and all age groups.”

State park events are free, but a vehicle permit is required to enter the park. Find state park events on the DNR events calendar (mndnr.gov/PTCalendar).

Rent snowshoeing or skiing equipment

Snowshoe rentals are available at 30

The Hugo City Council has made its committee appointments and official designations for the coming year. These include:

– Mike Miron as acting mayor

– Mark Erichson and Pete Willenbring of WSB and Associates as city engineer

– Kendra Lindahl of Landform as city planner

– David Snyder of Johnson & Turner as city attorney

– Baker Tilly as financial advisor

– US Bank as official depository for city funds

– The Citizen as official newspaper

– Companion Animal Control and Otter Lake Animal Hospital for animal control services

– Fire Chief Jim Compton Jr. as emergency management director

– Mayor Tom Weidt and Finance Director Anna Wobse as ex-officio members of the Hugo Fire Department Relief Association Board

– Planning Commissioner Corky Lessard reappointed to the Planning Commission for another four-year term; Bronwen Kleisser will serve as chair and Matthew Derr as vice-chair

– Parks Commissioners Cathy Moore-Arcand and Ranell Tennyson reappointed to the Parks Commission for another three-year term; Meredith St. Pierre will serve as chair and Moore-Arcand as vice-chair

– A vacancy on the Parks Commission after the end of term for Parks Commissioner Nicole Schmid

– Historical Commission members Cynthia Schoonover and Bradley LeTourneau reappointed for another three-year term; Schoonover will also serve as chair of the commission.

– Alternate Economic Development Authority member Neil Arcand as an regular EDA member for a six-year term; Weidt and Council Member Phil Klein will serve as council representatives.

– Weidt, Planning Commissioner Cindy Petty and resident Scott Arcand will serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals and Adjustments; Weidt will serve as chair

The Hugo Fire Department will be a step closer to funding some new equipment and training with a $1,000 donation from the Hugo American Legion. The donation comes from the Legion’s pull-tab proceeds. Chief Engineer Doug Millard has resigned as

state parks and recreation areas, and five state parks offer cross-country ski rentals. Rental prices vary by location, and some state parks offer free rentals.

“Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are great activities to be active while beating cabin fever,” Pierce said. “If you need rental equipment, it’s a good idea to check the website for the park you’re planning to visit or call ahead to get details about the type of rental equipment offered at the park and to check for availability.”

For snowshoe rental information, visit the snowshoeing page of the DNR website (mndnr.gov/state_parks/snowshoeing) and for cross-country ski rentals, visit the ski pass map on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/Skiing/SkiPass/ Map.html).

Try ice fishing

It’s free to fish in many Minnesota state parks, and some parks have fishing kits for visitors to borrow.

“Ice fishing is a quintessential winter activity in Minnesota,” said Pierce. “If you’re new to ice fishing, don’t worry, we can help. State parks offer events and hands-on learning programs to teach you how to ice fish.”

Those interested in ice fishing in state parks can read tips, learn about ice safety, find a lake to fish on and more by visiting the state parks ice fishing guide (mndnr.gov/state_parks/ ice_fishing.html). To find parks that have fishing kits available to borrow, see the DNR’s page about borrowing equipment (mndnr.gov/state_parks/ loaner.html).

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

chief engineer but will remain on the Hugo Fire Department as a firefighter. Millard is currently taking a three-month personal leave of absence. In 2023, firefighters will be able to earn overtime hours on four additional holidays, to better match Hugo city employees’ paid holidays. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Veterans Day and the Friday following Thanksgiving will now be included in firefighter emergency call holiday coverage.

A special event permit will allow the BeaterCross Snowmobile Race to host more than 200 people, sell food and alcohol, make a lot of noise and use the parking lot at nearby Hanifl Fields for its Jan. 28 event. See cover story for more details.

Bingo will be one of the highlights at the White Bear Lake Lacrosse Club fundraiser that will take place at the American Legion March 26, thanks to a lawful gambling permit issued by the City Council.

The newly constructed Peder Pedersen Pavilion in Lions Volunteer Park will be looking a little more spiffy after improvements to the facility. The city recently approved a payment of $24,488 to Schreiber Mullaney Construction for the project. The payment included a change order that detailed expenses related to solenoids, toilet partition modification, rope lighting, electrical changes and replacement of a damaged window.

Cracked and sunken pavement in the Birch Tree Ponds neighborhood will soon be a thing of the past. City staff have produced plans and specifications for a street improvement project, which will soon open for bids. Consideration of awarding a construction contract will occur at a future council meeting. The project will include:

– Bituminous mill and overlay on Fountain Road south of Egg Lake Road

– Partial street reconstruction on Foxhill Avenue North, 18th Street North, Geneva Avenue North, 135th Street North, 135th Court North, Freeland Avenue North, Freeland Court North, and Fountain Avenue north of Egg Lake Road

The project bid will be awarded in February or March, followed by construction June-September and an assessment hearing in October.

The Hugo City Council will next meet at 7 p.m. Jan. 23 at City Hall.

Jackie Bussjaeger

Council Member Dave Strub takes the oath of office.

SUBMITTED

Council Member Becky Petryk takes the oath of office at the Jan. 9 Hugo City Council meeting.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

HOCKEY DAY MN 2023

When: Jan. 26-29

Where: Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Rd., White Bear Township

Details: Weekend of frozen fun with outdoor hockey games including Stillwater and Forest Lake high school teams, outdoor concerts and activities all weekend. See schedule of games and events online. Contact: hockeydaymn.com

VIRTUAL READING WITH AUTHOR ANDREW KRIVAK

When: 7-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26

Where: Zoom

Details: WBCA host author of the Big Read book choice, “The Bear” for a virtual reading and conversation. Free with registration.

Contact: whitebeararts.org

“NOISES OFF”

When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, Jan. 27-Feb. 12; 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Comic play performed by Lakeshore Players Theatre. Tickets $10-$30.

Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

POLAR PLUNGE

When: Noon Saturday, Jan. 28

Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Ave.

Details: Participants jump into frigid White Bear Lake to support Special Olympics. Entertainment from 1-5 p.m. Registration at Dellwood Country Club 4-7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17 and 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 28. Contact: plungemn.org/events/white-bear-lake

2023 NORTH AMERICAN ICE DIVING FESTIVAL

When: Saturday, Jan. 28

Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Ave.

Details: Largest under-ice scuba diving event with more than 100 participants from around the world. On-ice demos, seminars and scuba vendors showcasing products beginning at 10 a.m.. Look for 25 ft red inflatable 250 yards off boat launch.

Contact: 651-653-1174 or mwschoolofdiving.com

SNOWSHOE TOUR OF FRANCONIA

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28

Where: Franconia Sculpture Park, Intersection of highways 95 & 8

Details: Guided tour of the park followed by hot chocolate and cider around the fire pit. Includes snowshoeing how-to and history lesson. Registration required.

Contact: franconia.org

SNOW DAY

When: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28

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

Details: Participants of all ages can partake in activities including snowshoeing, ice fishing, kicksledding, fat tire biking, winter crafts, live animals and more. Free.

Contact: 763-342-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

WINTER FESTIVAL

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28

Where: Wildlife Science Center, 22830 Sunrise Rd. NE, Stacy

Details: Learn about dogsledding and meet mushers and their teams. Demos, dog sled rides, campfires, food trucks, beer and other vendors.

Contact: wildlifesciencecenter.org

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY “500”

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday Feb. 2 and 16; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, east end of Hugo Public Works building, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited.

Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

EDUCATION IN SOCIETY SERIES

Where: Liberty Classical Academy,3878 Highland Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Foreign Relations expert Ken Pope will speak on the topic “The Global Impact of Communism & its Role in Current Events.” A special guest will share experience of imprisonment in Cuba. Free and open to the public.

Contact: libertyclassicalacademy.org

BEAR’LY OPEN DANCE PARTY

When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3

Where: White Bear Country Inn, 4940 Highway 61

Details: Community dance features live band Wildcat Combo. Free hors d’oeuvres and cash bar with signature cocktail. Tickets $10; funds support the White Bear Area Food Shelf.

Contact: bearlyopen.org

GROOVE ON: JAZZ DANCE WITH RHYTHMICALLY SPEAKING

When: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N.

Details: Dancers will show how to improvise and dance to jazz music. Ages 3+.

Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org/events

BEAR’LY OPEN XV

When: 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

Where: White Bear Lake, off of Ramsey County Beach

Details: Golf-on-ice event where participants use golf clubs, hockey sticks, tennis rackets, or anything else that can propel a tennis ball toward the hole. Foursomes encouraged to wear costumes.

Registration $35; funds support the White Bear Area Food Shelf.

Contact: bearlyopen.org

THE OLDER THE BETTER VINTAGE SLED EVENT

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

Where: Blacksmith Lounge, 17205 N. Forest Blvd., Hugo

Details: Trophies awarded for vintage and restored snowmobiles. Sled ride weather permitting.

Contact: facebook: Stillwater Snowmobile Club

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SNOW: WILDLIFE TRACKING

SERIES

When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 4

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

Lakes

Details: Explore the winter landscape and uncover the journey of an animal and the trail they left behind with a certified wildlife tracker. Ages 14+.

Contact: 763-342-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

MIDWINTER FAMILY FUN

When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

Where: Belwin Conservancy, 1553 Stagecoach Trail S., Afton

Details: Free family-friendly event featuring guided hikes, stargazing with the Minnesota Astronomical Society using a large refractive telescope, and s’mores around the campfires.

Contact: belwin.org

BOOTS & BOWS FATHER DAUGHTER BALL

When: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4

Where: Faith Lutheran Church, 886 N. Shore Dr., Forest Lake

Details: Dinner and dancing for dad and daughters of all ages. Buy tickets at church office.

Contact: 651-464-3323

LUTHER COLLEGE NORDIC CHOIR

When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5

Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi

Details: One of the premier collegiate choral ensembles in the United States comprised of three upper-class mixed touring choirs and two first-year choirs performs choral music that spans all styles and genres. Tickets available online or at the door.

Contact: tickets.luther.edu

75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CONCERT

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9

Where: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 9185 Lexington Ave., Circle Pines

Details: Free concert for the community with music performed by The Cornerstone Band and Agapetones Jazz Ensemble in celebration of church’s anniversary. Contact: 763-784-1971 or apizzella@oursaviorsonline. com

CENTERVILLE ANNUAL SKATE/SLED NIGHT

When: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park, 6970 LaMotte Dr.

Details: Community event with ice skating, sledding, snowshoeing, kick-sledding, hot cocoa, popcorn, s-mores, bonfire and more. Free. Contact: centervillemn.com

CONSERVATION PRACTICES FOR FARMS OF ALL SIZES

When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 11

Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N.

Details: Experts from the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District (CLFLWD) will provide an introduction on various conservation practices and the funding resources that are available for implementing them. Free; registration required. Contact: 651-275-7300 or washcolib.org/events

SLEDDING PARTY

When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, Feb. 11

Where: Oak Shore Park, 12790 Exhall Ave. N., Hugo

Details: Community sledding event hosted by the City of Hugo. Bring a sled. Cocoa and cookies provided. Contact: 651-762-6342 or ci.hugo.mn.us

CONTRIBUTED

The North American Ice Diving Festival held Jan. 28 on White Bear Lake will attempt to break the Guinness World Record of the largest one-day event with the most divers under the ice.

Cougar swimmers 4-1 after close loss to Andover

The Andover Huskies edged Centennial 95-91 on Thursday evening, handing the Cougars their first loss after four wins, at the Huskies home pool at Fred Moore Middle School.

Double winners for the Cougars were George Atkinson (200 freestyle, 2:02.55, and 500 freestyle, 5:29.15), Max Scheurer (medley, 2:06.64, and breaststroke, 58.02) and Alex Larkin (butterfly, 1:00.41, and backstroke, 1:02.83).

The Cougars won the medley relay with Caleb Cregan, Scheurer, Larkin, and Joseph Murray (2:11.77) and the 200 freestyle relay with Scheurer, Talen Greeson-Stormoen, Murray, and Atkinson (1:37.98).

Leading Andover was Ryan Mickelborough, who won 50 and 100 sprints and anchored the decisive 400 free relay win in the final event.

Bears head into Hockey Day on a roll

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS WRITER

The excitement is building for White Bear Township’s day in the spotlight as Hockey Day Minnesota host on Saturday. Also building is the Bears’ winning streak.

“Our entire hockey program is so excited to have the opportunity to play in Hockey Day Minnesota,” coach Tim Sager said. “The memories the boys will have from this day will last a lifetime. We are so grateful to have this opportunity and want to say thank you to everyone who made this possible.”

White Bear Lake has nine straight wins after tripping Woodbury 6-2 and Grand Rapids, both at home. The No. 10 ranked Bears are 13-2 overall, 7-1 in conference.

On Saturday, the Bears take on section arch rival Hill-Murray at 4:30 p.m. on the specially-constructed

outdoor rink at Polar Lakes Park, televised by Bally Sports North. The Pioneers, a perennial power, are having a rare below .500 season (6-8-1).

The White Bear Lake girls will open the day against Stillwater at 9:30 a.m., and the Mahtomedi boys face state Class 1A champion Hermantown at 1 p.m.

Last week against Woodbury (105-1), sophomore Jack Stanius drilled three goals and made two assists. Also scoring were Joe Belisle, Charlie Olsen and Nolan Roed. The Bears outshot the Royals 37-14. Against Grand Rapids (11-7) Aiden Welch, Roed and Grady Gallatin had the goals. Leo Gabriel made 26 saves for the shutout.

“We have had a solid year so far,” said Sager. He cites captains Gallatin, Belisle, Welch and Brady Borgestad for leadership, Roed (35 points) and Welch (33) as top scorers and “many players contributing in different ways.”

SPORTS BRIEFS

GIRLS HOCKEY

Centennial/Spring Lake Park lost a duel of Top Ten teams to Maple Grove 5-1 last Tuesday, then shut down Cretin-Derham Hall 6-0 on Thursday and Blaine 3-0 on Saturday. The No. 9 Cougars (15-4-1) are 7-3-1 in the Northwest Suburban, trailing No. 1 Andover (7-0-0) and No. 6 Maple Grove (8-1-0) among 10 teams. Maple Grove had just a 25-23 edge in shots on goal but five different players found the net against the Cougars. Ella O’Hearn scored for the CSLP. Lauren O’Hara pumped in four goals against CDH and two more against Blaine, giving her 28 for the season, fifth in the metro area. Jaycee Chatleain and Reagan Kulencamp also scored against CDH (615) while Grace Laager and Kulencamp made two assists each and Anna Peterson had 25 saves for the shutout. Alexis Larson notched the other goal against Blaine (11-7-1) while Kaitlin Groess had 13 saves in the shutout.

126.250, led by Sadie Bachman, shown all-around with 35.15, and Sophie Mahnke, second with 33.30, on Thursday evening. Kylie Nelson of Centennial was third (32.95) and Jenna Simso fourth (32.225). Amelya Gannon of the Cougars won vault (8.55) with Nelson fourth (8.475) and Simso fifth (8.45). Simso took third on beam (8.675) and Nelson fifth (8.35). Nelson was third on floor (8.55) and fourth on bars (7.575). Gannon was fifth on floor (8.325).

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Centennial picked up conference wins over Park Center 75-47 there last Tuesday and Andover 65-52 at home Friday, giving them five wins in six games and lifting their record to 9-7. Against Park Center (2-12), Emma Walsh led with 18 points while Macey Littlefield, Marisa Frost, Autumn McCall added 12 points each. Helen Ben led the Pirates with 13 points. Against Andover (8-7), Frost tallied 22 points, Walsh 10 points, Littlefield nine, Autumn McCall and Jordan Metz eight each, and Kati Anderson seven. The Cougars led by just 25-24 at halftime but started the second half with a 9-0 run, eight of those points by Frost, who added another run of seven points later in the half. Piper Engelby sank 20 points and Morgan Miller 19 for the Huskies.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Autumn McCall Centennial Hockey

Autumn McCall has been a solid contributor in the first two seasons of what should be a stellar four-year career for Centennial basketball. The nimble and active 6-foot-1 sophomore is averaging 8.9 points, 10 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.8 blocks for the Cougars (9-7), shooting 46 percent. As a freshman on a state tournament team, she contributed 7.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. “Autumn has been great for us on both ends of the court this year,” coach Jamie Sobolik said. “She has an ability to play inside and outside on offense. Her post defense has given us a great advantage at that end.”

BOYS BASKETBALL

After Centennial (2-11) lost to defending state Class 4A champion Park Center 95-26 at home last Tuesday, Cougar coach Spencer Waldvogel was asked if the Pirates were even better than last year. He’s convinced that they are, despite graduating four starters. “I would argue that they are one of the most talented high school teams I’ve ever seen,” said Waldvogel, adding that, with one senior starter and the rest juniors, the Pirates have a good chance for two straight undefeated seasons. Waldvogel graduated from Centennial in 2009, which was the last season Minnesota had an unbeaten Class 4A team, Hopkins. Eleven players scored for the Pirates (11-0), led by CJ O’Hara with 17 and Chiang Ring with 15. Both of them transferred from other schools this year to join the reigning state champions, while the rest of the roster was there last year as varsity backups and JV players. After losing to No. 1 Park Center, the Cougars lost to No. 11 Andover 86-52 on Friday.

GYMNASTICS

Rogers defeated Centennial 134.575 to

BOYS HOCKEY

Centennial posted an 8-2 win over Robbinsdale Armstrong/Cooper on Thursday evening, then fell to a red-hot Rogers team 9-5 on Saturday. The Cougars are 9-5-1 overall and 7-3 in the Northwest Suburban. Against Armstrong/Cooper (7-9), Harper Searles, who scored three goals, including two in the first period for a 2-0 lead. Also finding the net were Brock Carls twice, Peyton Blair, Casey Coenen and Kellen Krumwiede. The Cougars outshot A/C 39-17. At Rogers, the Royals (11-2) connected on nine of 37 shots, led by Sam Ranallo, Mason Jenson and Parker Dechene with two goals apiece. The Royals got six goals off Gavin Schahn and three off Cody Easton. Peyton Blair knocked in three goals for the Cougars (9-5) with Heath Nelson and Austin Petersen also scoring.

George Atkinson won the 200 and 500 freestyles against Andover.

PHOTOS BY BRUCE STRAND Max Scheurer won individual medley and breaststroke against Andover.

PHOTO BY JON NAMYST

Jordan Metz drives for an underhand layup against Andover.

BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTED Bears co-captain Joe Belisle celebrates a goal.

PHOTO BY JON NAMYST Ellie Newpower, Anna Jarpy and Callie Cody were all smiles after the Cougars beat Cretin-Derham Hall.

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