The Citizen

Press Publications 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

792162

Floral Shop and Garden Center We deliver locally!

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 9 CIRCLE PINES, MN

THURSDAY, MARCH 7, 2024 VOL. 21 NO. 5 www.readthecitizen.com $1.00

SPORTS: Cougars, Bears hockey head to state PAGE 14

Daylight Savings March 10

Efforts for reformation of Met Council end without plan ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

FILE

Shake your Shamrock The annual Shake Your Shamrock event is scheduled for Saturday, March 16 in Centerville. There’s a distance for every ability – 5K and 7K on paved trails that are both stroller and pet friendly while also accommodating the competitive runner. For more information, see calendar listing inside.

Attempts by a special task force to find a new type of governing model for the Metropolitan Council have yet to end as some have hoped.

Widespread disagreement and an inability to find common ground among task force members left no unanimous decision on how the reform should proceed, leaving members feeling disheartened that no action was being taken.

“This is completely frustrating,” said Washington County Commissioner and task force member Karla Bigham. “People have a right to know what standards the council should be held towards and are being better represented by those we elect.”

The task force, consisting of 17 appointed council members, was formed during the 2023 legislative session to reform the current governor-appointment-based model, which members like Bigham have argued puts forth a perception that elected members are brought on only to serve in the interest of Gov. Tim Walz and not as independent representatives of their districts/regions.

Additionally, task force members had been seeking ways to pursue better transparency and accountability to the public over the council’s oversight of regional transportation planning. One SEE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL, PAGE 10

Hugo resident, area teacher named TI:ME Teacher of the Year A Maplewood music technology educator from Hugo is bringing music education into the 21st century while making a name for herself in the music technology industry.

Gillian Desmarais is a music technology educator at Harmony Learning Center in Maplewood. The school, which is a part of District 622, serves students in grades K-12 who have emotional or behavioral disabilities or who have

experienced severe trauma.

Earlier this year, she was named to Yamaha’s 40 under 40 list. Now, she is being recognized as the 2024 Teacher of the Year by Technology in Music Education (TI:ME).

The award, established in 2005, recognizes teachers who are consistently achieving the highest levels of student motivation and engagement in music education by infusing music technology into their work.

“I was beside myself,” Desmarais recalled when she was notified of the award.

“Some of the most incredible teachers I’ve looked up to my entire adult life are the people who received this award.” She added that it’s an honor to be recognized in a field that is predominately occupied by men.

Desmarais has worked at Harmony Learning Center for nearly two years. She makes up the fourth generation of musicians in her family. “They are all drummers. I’m the only rebel that decided not to go that route.”

As a flute player, she grew up playing in a variety of

ensembles. By the time she entered high school and college, she was immersed in music classes. She attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst for music education but ended up withdrawing from school.

“I was only in classical music classes. I needed to find an avenue to get into this type of world (music technology), I just didn’t know how … I took about nine months to try to figure out music technology on my own. It was challenging.”

She went back to complete her bachelor’s degree and then

O P E N YE A R R O U N D

CO N S U LTAT I O N

SEE HUGO TEACHER, PAGE 6

2023

of the Press The Citizen

2022

of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

FLORAL & GARDEN CENTER 16155 Forest Blvd, Hugo (Highway 61) Visit us On

CIRCULATION 651-407-1234 ppcirc@presspubs.com

CONTRIBUTED

Gillian Desmarais

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1923

THIS IS THE PERFECT T I M E TO P L A N YO U R B AC K YA R D OA S I S .

C A L L TO S C H E D U L E A

NEWS 651-407-1230 citizen@presspubs.com

ADVERTISING 651-407-1200 marketing@presspubs.com

CLASSIFIED 651-407-1250 classified@presspubs.com

• 651-488-6707 PRODUCTION 651-407-1239 art@presspubs.com

BEST OF THE PRESS

799064

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

2 THE CITIZEN

MARCH 7, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

We Do the Heavy Lifting for You! Household Waste • Construction Debris • Appliances• Furniture We remove items professionally and efficiently, for the best possible value!

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

JUNK REMOVAL IS QUICK & EASY! IF YOU WANT IT GONE … IT’S GONE!

651-323-4682 • johnsonjunkremoval.com Locally owned

795994

Call us or visit our website for more information

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS • The city receives 10% of the charitable gambling net proceeds from licensed charities operating within the city. The city’s 10% balance was $39,204 from 2022; $22,378 from Centennial Youth Hockey pull tabs were added in 2023, for a total amount of $61,583 available for expenditure. The charitable gambling revenue as estimated in the 2024 budget is $20,000. Centerville is also required by state statute to spend those revenues on a specific list of 16 approved items. As it has done in previous years, council voted unanimously (4-0; Council Member Russ Koski was absent) to direct city staff to designate all expenditures, amounting to $34,565, from Parks & Recreation and Fete des Lacs toward activities and facilities for youth.

Remaining funds of $27,018 will be designated as restricted funds in the 2023 general fund financial statements.

• The Centerville Lions’ Cadillac Dinner is coming up on April 20 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Genevieve’s Parish Center, 6995 Centerville Road. To that

end, council approved a request for special event, temporary liquor and gambling permits for the event.

• The Kwik Trip is a significant presence along Main Street, after the store was built around one year ago.

During that time, the city has held money for the development in escrow to ensure the developer completed public improvements as part of the purchase agreement. Kwik Trip performed the improvements, which were found acceptable. The developer now has the right to request 75% of the security back, and the city will be giving that amount back. The city will withhold 25% of the security until the end of 2024. Council reduced the turn lane escrow to $40,449 and returned the balance of the development review escrow in the amount of $881.

• The city is seeking feedback on the proposed development at 1687 Westview Street (LaLonde Property).

An open house information session is scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. March 25. A memorandum of understanding was approved at the Dec. 13 City Council meeting, which outlined various

SPECIAL OFFER FOR L&B EXTRAS MEMBERS ONLY!

L&B Deli Pulled Chicken 12 oz. | Limit 1 offer per day.

Save $9.99 on 2.

Offer valid March 7 – 13, 2024.

facets of a potential development deal involving the use of TIF in support of a 110-unit market-rate apartment building on the site.

• A town hall open house was scheduled for March 11. However, it came to the attention of city staff that this date falls during Centennial School District’s spring break week.

To ensure that the public has ample opportunity to attend, the date was rescheduled to 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, March 25, at City Hall. Everyone is welcome to attend, said Assistant City Administrator Athanasia Lewis. Booths will be set up. The proposed LaLonde development will be highlighted, information on tax increment financing (TIF) will be provided and discussion on the city’s pending developments will be discussed. What building out to a population of 5,000 people would look like also will be discussed, and attendees can sign up to receive communication through more avenues. The city would appreciate input on the capital projects the public would like to see within the city’s parks, such as a new trail or monument, Lewis said. “We’d like to hear your ideas and have an opportunity to connect with you.”

• In his administrator’s report, City Engineer/Administrator Mark Statz noted “City Day on the Hill,” organized by the League of Minnesota Cities, will be held all day March 7. The day will include a one-onone meeting with both the state representative and senator.

• According to state statute, all precincts must hold an accuracy testing day prior to each of the three election days in 2024. This testing was required prior to March 5, and will be performed before the state

primary on Aug. 13 and the general election on Nov. 5. The city’s election administrator, head election judge and one member of the public attend the public accuracy testing on the DS200 and Omni Ballot marking machines to ensure that all election equipment is ready for election day.

The public is welcome to attend and view the testing process.

• Super Tuesday is today, March 5, at St. Genevieve’s Community Parish — Fellowship Hall, 6994 Centerville Road from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Election judges are trained and are eager to assist voters. Members of the public are urged to come out and exercise their right to vote.

• On Friday, March 23, the Metropolitan Council will host the “State of the Region” meeting to provide an overview of the greater metro region’s current initiatives, trends and economic conditions. The event will be held from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Hopkins Center for the Arts, 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins. There will be opportunities for public input.

• The Centennial Lakes Police Department is in the final stages of hiring a new officer. With the new hire, the department would be just one open position from a fully staffed department for the first time since the pandemic. The Centennial Fire District is also hiring.

• The city’s Realtor reports that a restaurant owner has expressed interest in the Block 3 site at 1737 Main Street.

The council next meets at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, March 13, at City Hall, 1880 Main St. Loretta Harding

North Star students bowl

Sign up at LandB.mn/Extras or text EXTRAS to 55955* *Msg & data rates may apply. T&C/Privacy: http://bit.ly/1KfDUyv

798866

Digital coupons for use at checkout

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

CO NTRIBUTED

It is still only March, so the public may still have an opportunity to see “Clearopathra,” the city snowplow, in action. Centerville resident Erin Rehnke provided the winning name.

SCHOOL BRIEF

Join L&B Extras for even more great offers!

Special offers just for Extras members

In gym class, North Star Elementary students participate in their bowling unit. After learning the rules and skills for the sport, students put their knowledge to the test with a friendly competition.

They played dollar bowling, gaining points for strikes and spares. The team with the most dollars by the end of class won!

CO NTRIBUTED

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

3

Local couple pursues active holidays DEB BARNES SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Randal and Deb Barnes have lived in Hugo since 1985. They’ve had bicycling adventures in Austria, Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic (Czechia), Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Slovenia, as well as in various places in the U.S., over the past decade. Some people enjoy cruises; Deb and Randal love to see the world go slowly by from the seats of their bikes. This is part 2 of a series.

Part II: Passau, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary Randal and I decided that if we were going to purchase plane tickets to Europe, we’d stay for a few weeks. After our hilly adventure on Canada’s Prince Edward Island, we agreed that a biking trip downstream along a river was just what we were looking for. We focused on the Danube, which flows from Germany’s Black Forest to the Black Sea. It has been an important river route for many centuries.

The river is bordered on both sides by a narrow tow path that was previously used by draft animals to haul vessels upriver. The Danube bike route now is part of Europe’s EuroVelo (EV) system (en.eurovelo. com). These bike paths crisscross Europe, and are incredibly well signed.

I spent the next few months learning enough Hungarian to be able to buy tickets, ask directions, check into a hotel and order coffee or a pint. Randal covered German; he’d taken it in high school. We both believe that even a small effort to use the local

language helps forge good relations with people of other nationalities.

Our biking adventure began in Passau, a town in Germany just north of the Austrian border where three rivers — the Danube, Inn and Ilz — flow together. We would spend the first week biking down the river through Austria to Vienna; the second week, we’d bike along the river across Austria’s border into Slovakia and then into Hungary on our way to Budapest.

This time, we were outfitted with hybrid bikes, helmets, bike panniers, maps, and a play-by-play description of how to navigate.

Although we’d have backup and our outfitter would transport our bags each day, there was no one checking in on us along the roadside.

The ride along the Danube Cycle Path (der Donau Radweg) on EV-6 was absolutely beautiful. Most of the trail in Austria was within a few feet of the river, close enough to see the swans and talk to the fishermen sitting on their lawn chairs.

We saw monasteries, castles and castle ruins.

We rode past vineyards and ancient cemeteries.

The adventure never stopped, because we never knew what to expect around the next bend in the river. Much of the route is countryside; borders between countries aren’t always obvious.

We were surprised by the number of little ferries that ply the Danube. Each ferry carried pedestrians, many of them bicyclists like us. The little crafts maneuvered across the river like giant water bugs all day. Our bikes

had excellent shocks, which were needed on the cobblestones in the picturesque river towns.

Within Hungary, our ride to Budapest took us inland (much of the first stretch of river was converted to industry during the communist era). The inland route took us through hilly country to Lake Öreg, and back down to the river. When we reached Budapest, we turned in our bikes and spent a few days exploring the city.

We learned a lot on that first ride on the most popular bike route in Europe: We learned that most people you meet on bike paths are very surprised to find out you are from the U.S. They want to talk, and they almost all speak English. We learned that other bicyclists will stop to help you if you need it.

We learned to keep our water bottles full. We learned to take a break for tea mid-morning; you can use the restaurant restrooms for free that way.

We’ve also learned that serendipity happens. You may think you’ve planned your entire trip, but things happen that you never planned for, and those can be some of the most memorable parts of your adventure. For example, we stayed the night in Linz, Austria, and found ourselves unexpectedly in the middle of Pflasterspektakel Linz, a street performance festival featuring fire and aerial artists, puppet theater, acrobatics, and the like. It was magical; our room looked out on the city center and we watched the performances from our window late into the evening. We hadn’t planned it.

We wandered into St. Stephens Basilica in Esztergom, Hungary, at dusk to see the church, and were surprised to hear the church organist practicing on the largest pipe organ in the world. The music gave us goosebumps. We hadn’t planned it.

We missed a turn on our way to Carnuntum, the largest intact Roman settlement yet found in Europe, and ended up on a gravel road out in the middle of acres of cornfields. (We had deviated from the planned route that day to see the ruins, so we couldn’t blame our maps.) A nice woman sweeping her driveway pointed us in the right direction, and the farmers on the tractors waved as we pedaled by. We hadn’t planned to get lost, but we’ll never forget how kind people were.

When we rode out of Vienna on our way downstream, we took the low path along the river’s edge instead of the high path on the dike — and rode right through a nudist beach that we didn’t know was there. The only people who had any clothes on were Randal and I and the guy pedaling the ice cream wagon. (I still don’t know how I navigated that quarter mile with my eyes closed.) We hadn’t planned on that, either.

Needless to say, you need to be prepared to embrace the unexpected if you’re going to ride a bicycle in Europe! We were determined to plan our next adventure.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

On board another river ferry in Austria. We learned on this trip that the best way to get photos of us on our bicycles was to offer to take photos of complete strangers using their camera; they’d then offer to take ours.

There are bike paths on both sides of the Danube River. For a nominal fee, the little ferries carry passengers and bicyclists across the river all day long. You never have to wait long.

MDAN adsONE to run ONE TIME, week beginning MDAN ads to run TIME, the weekthe beginning 3/3/2024 3/3/2024 Metro Deb Barnes is a former managing editor for Press Publications. You can contact her at news@ presspubs.com or call 651407-1200.

Metro

M

The Danube bike path (EuroVelo 6) runs right past vineyards,

old cemeteries and churches situated along the river.

MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 3/3/2024

Metro

GrandCruise Alaskan Cruise & Tour Grand Alaskan & Tour 799074

k beginning 3/3/2024

12 DAYS: MAY-SEPT 2024 DEPARTURES 12 DAYS: MAY-SEPT 2024 DEPARTURES

Grand Alaskan Cruise & Tour 12 DAYS: MAY-SEPT 2024 DEPARTURES

1-866-577-6646 1-866-577-6646 USE PROMO CODE: YMT2024 USE PROMO CODE: YMT2024

per person based double occupancy service/gov’t fees.&Ask your Travel Consultant for terms & conditions.

Price per person based on double Price occupancy plus $299 taxon service/gov’t fees. Askplus your$299 TraveltaxConsultant for terms conditions.

Add-on with transfers from most major gateways. Call for details.

Add-on airfare with transfers available fromairfare most major gateways.available Call for details.

799077

799075

remote, andthe utterly Rugged, remote,Rugged, and utterly beautiful, wildsbeautiful, of Alaskathe wilds of Alaska come alive onofthis of the Frontier State. come alive on this guided tour theguided Frontiertour State.

Experience the best Alaska, from the wilderness of Denali Experience the best of Alaska, from theofwilderness of Denali National to the glaciers drama of calving National Park to the dramaPark of calving along the glaciers along the Inside Passage. Inside Passage.

799076

$ $ $ Starting 2149 $1899 Starting at 2149 at 1899

OPINION

4 THE CITIZEN

www.presspubs.com

MARCH 7, 2024

Hello, and pleased to meet you

M

y name is Erik Suchy and I am the new staff writer at the one and only Press Publications in downtown White Bear Lake! Like many current and past writers, I take it upon myself to conform to a high set of journalism standards, ensuring I am producing the best possible content to publish each weekly issue.

I was born and raised in (so you may have guessed!) White Bear Lake, graduating from high school here in 2014 before taking off to Century College that same year to complete my generals. Many ambitions of future career dreams floated through my head while there, split between my then-steady Suchy’s objective of obtaining my associate’s degree. Unfortunately, being the unfoScoops cused youngster I was then, meant that most, if not all, were forgotten quickly, Erik Suchy leaving me without any other specific endeavor for the time being.

“For the time being,” of course, being the key phrase.

After graduating from Century in 2018, I transferred to Metropolitan State University, where many new interests began to take shape. I initially applied to the school’s creative writing program, treating the subject of writing as a passing thought. “Easy, peasy, mac-and-cheesy,” I frequently told myself throughout my first two semesters.

“All I have to do is just write a bunch of different stories to present to my professors without worrying about taking any fancy tests or pop quizzes. It doesn’t even matter if any of what I write is good, as long as I get it in on time, and POOF! A+’s across the board, here I come!”

But I was wrong. Very, VERY wrong with these beliefs for all the right reasons.

Once I began my second year, writing was gradually beginning to form as a recreational interest I started to pursue outside of the classroom. When I took it upon myself to write for fun with a laptop on one side of my desk and a cup of green tea on the other, I started small and ... poorly. My short stories made no sense content and grammar-wise. Poetry was worse; I crafted sentences and lines that sounded beautifully nonsensical at best and pretentiously half-baked at worst. Worst of all, I never realized that to become a better writer, I had to become a better READER, despite the countless times past professors had lobbied that advice my way.

So, I read. I studied. I took notes.

Then, the improvements began to take hold and reflected themselves better and better in the stories I wrote.

Soon, I began to have my work published in various college magazines, both in print and online. I felt accomplished. Someone was noticing me and my efforts, and I realized this was the first step in knowing my writing had the potential to take me places.

With a year and a half left of college, I landed a parttime job writing opinion pieces on current social and political issues for my college newspaper. After graduation, I was stuck trying to find full-time writing jobs that didn’t require much experience. Most of them required significantly more achievements over a more extended period than what I had achieved during my tenure at the college paper.

After trying various unrelated jobs, ranging from early childhood development to briefly going back to retail, a freelance opportunity opened for me in November, writing news stories for Press Publications. I did this up through early February when the company offered me to join their team full-time, which I accepted and have been here since!

Besides writing, my hobbies include photography, hiking and the occasional day of fishing on whatever lake I can cast my line and lure into on a good, sunny day.

I look forward to working with such an incredible team of writers who have just as big a passion for covering local news as I do!

If you have any ideas for stories that you would like me to report on, please get in touch with me by phone or email.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publciations.

He can be reached at 651-407-1229 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

Distributed and mailed bi-weekly in: Hugo • Centerville • Lino Lakes P.O. Box 393 Hugo, MN 55038 www.ReadTheCitizen.com DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements appear in Press Publications’ publications, including print and other digital formats.

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.

Heroes paid the ultimate sacrifice

W

hat happened last vides crisis intervention trainsmall-town living, our officers Sunday morning ing. Our officers are required are continuously dealing with in Burnsville, is a incidents of increased unpredict- to complete state mandated saddened stark reality ability, and these challenges we training in a variety of related of how dangerous our jobs as face have become more complex topics including: mental health first responders can be. As I was every day. With the population crisis response, de-escalation, introduced into law enforcement conflict management, implicit booming, dealing with people 25 years ago, it was imperative bias, and response to persons with mental health episodes that I was aware that on any with autism. Through our inhave become more prevalent. given day, during any particular house scenario-based training, Through research, I have incident, I could encounter learned one in four people in the our officers are often presented life altering with diverse scenarios. Some United States experience some situations. element of mental illness. These involving extreme challenges, to Having the allow them to utilize their crisis maladies can range anywhere notion of these intervention training. Unfortufrom low levels of anxiety to risks in mind, I, severe schizophrenia. As police nately, during some “real life” as well as other officers, these types of calls can interactions, all the training in police officers the world may not be enough become extremely difficult to in this county, navigate. When people are expe- to remedy scenarios involving proudly come to riencing crisis, we are expected some people’s mental health work every day Cop’s to recognize, understand and ad- crises. to help those in Our police officers are human, dress these challenges using our Corner need. and we are doing a job that a training as well as compassion Pat Aldrich and empathy. In a vast majority very low percentage of people We as police officers have al- of these contacts, there are posi- are willing to do. We possess the ways been told to tive outcomes, and we are able to desire to help, continue to train “expect the unexpected.” When locate the necessary resources to to be the best at what we do, and help these people through their sacrifice every day when we I listen to citizens being intercome to work. Please keep the viewed on the news, I often hear trying times. But during some statements similar to “this never contacts, people who are experi- families of Officer Paul Elmhappens in our neighborhood,” encing mental health crisis can strand, Officer Matthew Ruge be extremely unpredictable. Ig- and Paramedic Adam Finseth or “these things don’t happen noring the signs of any adverse in your thoughts and prayers, in small towns.” This ideology could not be farther from reality. changes in behavior could create as their heroes have paid the safety issues for any of the peo- ultimate sacrifice through their As with the unfortunate situation in Burnsville, we as citizens ple involved in the incident. It is noble actions. imperative we protect ourselves, cannot assume tragic things Pat Aldrich is a captain of the and also the people experiencing will only happen in the “big Centennial Lakes Police these episodes from harm. city.” Even though our three Department. cities of Centerville, Circle Pines Every year, the Centennial Lakes Police Department proand Lexington have the feel of

THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES lapse between publication.

• Limited to 350 words.

Exceptions may be made for • Submissions must Include rebuttal letters. a full name, address and • Due to space limitations, daytime phone number for letters that don’t address verification.

• Letter writers must live, work local issues are not guaranteed publication. or have another connection • Repeat letters by the same to Press Publications writer about the same coverage area. subject matter will not be • Letter writers are limited published. to six letters per year and • Submissions containing at least four weeks must Carter C. Johnson ...........................Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson .................Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm ............ Managing Editor citizennews@presspubs.com Patty Steele ......................... General Manager marketing@presspubs.com Randy Roberts ..............Director of Sales & Marketing marketing@presspubs.com

Laurie Ericson .........................................Designer art@presspubs.com Mary Peterson ..............Production Manager artmanager@presspubs.com Paul Dols ............................Photo Journalist photos@presspubs.com circ@presspubs.com .........................Circulation obits@presspubs.com ....................... Obituaries classified@presspubs.com .................Classifieds callaspecialist@presspubs.com ... Call a Specialist

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.

COPYRIGHT© 2024 BY PRESS PUBLICATIONS, INC. Material may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form whatsoever.

News ..................................................... 651-407-1226 Advertising ............................................651-407-1214 Circulation ............................................ 651-407-1234 Classified/Obits ................................... 651-407-1250 Production ............................................ 651-407-1239 FAX ....................................................... 651-429-1242

Published bi-weekly Thursdays 651-407-1200 citizennews@presspubs.com Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Friday, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Mailed Subscription Rate: $30.00 per year Subscribe online at presspubs.com

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

5

OBITUARY

Addressing gun violence

I sense that in this election year many politicians of all parties, representatives in particular, will be skittish about gun legislation. Here is MY OPINION about the proliferation of guns into our society: First, guns are designed to kill (obvious). Many guns are designed specifically to kill people (equally obvious).

The Second Amendment was never intended to allow the mostly unregulated access to guns designed to kill people that we have now. Yes, we have laws, but they are mostly ineffective in keeping guns away from bad actors. Certainly, you can say that all we need to do is truly prosecute the bad actors who commit gun violence crimes.

Prosecution sounds like a plan that should work, but would it/does it work? It’s an exploration worth taking. However, the flow of guns would still continue unabated without restrictions on access.

But given the current strong belief of gun rights believers that their supposed rights should not be curtailed, it seems that politicians that represent them will have a difficult time in addressing the result of unmitigated access to guns.

Prayers are offered up when law enforcement officers are killed, or mass shootings occur (and maybe some pray when the daily individual killings occur). Other than prayer, here are actions that could be taken to curtail the flow of guns and

incidents of gun violence: • Alert local law enforcement of failed background checks • Background checks on all gun sales • Close the Charleston loophole • Disarm hate • Prevent gun trafficking • Prohibit people with dangerous histories from having guns • Report lost and stolen guns • Require prohibited people to turn in their guns • Waiting periods • KEEP COMMUNITIES SAFE • Block concealed-carry reciprocity • Keep guns off campus • Prohibit guns in sensitive areas • Prohibit open carry • Repeal Shoot First laws • Require permits to carry concealed guns in public • Strong standards for carrying concealed guns in public • Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) assistance funding • Violence intervention programs And there are more to be found at everytown.org Will Perry Hugo

COUNTY BRIEFS

County board amends plan for use of ARPA funds

The Washington County Board of Commissioners is updating the projects paid for with the county’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. An updated recovery plan is due to the U.S. Department of Treasury by July 31.

Washington County received almost $51 million from the Act. Signed into law March 11, 2021, it was designed to assist state, local, and tribal governments to recover from the economic shock of the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds are allocated to address continued response to ongoing pandemic needs, focusing on the recovery to those most impacted by the public health emergency, addressing longstanding gaps in the economy that prevent equitable economic recovery, and shoring up government services to ensure ongoing capacity and assurance for the future to continue to serve the needs of the community.

The updated plan reallocates funds from several current projects to projects that aim to create a safer working environment at Big Marine Park Reserve and replace election equipment. The updated plan also allocates funds for one new project to improve equipment for the Water, Parks, and Trails River Patrol in the Sheriff’s Office.

WSB will do design for Highway 61, CSAH 8 improvements

Washington County is entering into a consulting contract with WSB for the preliminary and final design of Trunk Highway 61 and County State Aid Highway (CSAH) 8. The contract totaling $298,943 has been approved by the Washington County Board of Commissioners and will be paid through County State Aid Highway funds.

Washington County applied for and was awarded a Minnesota Department of Transportation 2025 Metro Local Partnership Program grant of $985,000 for construction improvements along Trunk Highway 61 between the CSAH 8 segments that include extended left turn lanes, pedestrian upgrades, signal improvements and culvert replacements. The county’s goal is to complete the final design in the fall of 2024. These improvements must be constructed in 2025 and are identified in the Washington County Capital Improvement Plan as project RB-2805.

The county issued a request for proposals in November 2023 and WSB was selected from a group of nine qualified consultants that submitted proposals. The scope of work for the consulting contract includes survey, public outreach, preliminary design, final design and construction support.

County looks to update park policy

Currently, Washington County does not allow pets in campgrounds and is reviewing the policy for

possible updates. Staff have received feedback from guests who support changing it because they would prefer to bring their pets along for their stay at the campgrounds. Others have expressed that they believe the policy should not change.

Washington County is looking for residents’ thoughts on the topic. Complete the short survey found online at https://arcg.is/1Syjjm. The survey will be open through March 10.

Washington County Sheriff’s Office adding deputy sheriffs

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will add three full-time deputy sheriffs to fulfill the agreements for law enforcement services with the cities of Hugo, Lake Elmo, Mahtomedi, Dellwood, Willernie and Birchwood Village. These additional positions in the patrol unit will help the Sheriff’s Office effectively meet the public safety expectations and needs of these cities. The city councils have expressed support for these added contract positions, which will be fully funded by the contract cities.

County approves changes to North Environmental Center construction

Commissioners recently approved five change orders and one amendment to construction contracts for the Washington County North Environmental Center.

Construction on the new household hazardous waste facility in Forest Lake is currently underway.

Both the operations and office buildings are fully framed and roofed. Exterior brick is currently being installed on the office building. The building is currently on schedule to be complete in the fall of 2024 and remains on budget.

The change orders ensure the project meets requirements for the building’s sprinkler system and piping and addresses the needs for concrete curing and excavation work on roads and stormwater ponds at the site.

The approved change orders and amendment were with the following contractors: • Nasseff Mechanical Contractors Inc. for $54,346 to provide and install a fire pump for the sprinkler system at the North Environmental Center.

• A.J. Moore Electric,Inc. for $103,125 to provide and install a generator that can accommodate the fire pump.

• Axel Ohmann Inc. for $51,347 to accommodate winter conditions on the foundation concrete.

• Wenzel Plymouth Plumbing LLC for $164,875 for acid-resistant piping in the operations building.

• Kevitt Excavating LLC for $308,397 for changes to the access road, site grading and utilities per regulatory agency plan reviews.

• Kraus Anderson Construction Company for $110,000 to cover the cost of the building permit for the North Environmental Center.

Newspaper End Rolls FOR SALE! Sold per lb Perfect for packing material, moving, storage, kids activities, arts & crafts, painting, wrapping paper, + so much more!

4779 Bloom Avenue, WBL | 651-407-1200

Randall D. Roberts age 57, of Hastings, MN, passed away suddenly on February 28, 2024. Born in Waterloo, Iowa, on November 12, 1966, to Rick and Linda (Lockhart) Roberts, Randall’s journey led him across the Midwest until his family settled in Marshall, Missouri when he was in the fifth grade.

Randy had a love for sports, participating in baseball and basketball.

During his school years, he found joy in playing trumpet in the marching band, basketball, and golf, and he graduated in 1985. He pursued higher education at North East Missouri State University in Kirksville, MO, graduating in 1989 with a degree in journalism.

Fate intervened when Randy met Beverly Richardson while vacationing in London, England. The two became inseparable and married on June 16, 1990, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Brainerd, MN. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Rachel and Danielle, who pursued their interests with passion.

Randy took great joy in supporting his daughters in their pursuits, from Rachel’s involvement in marching band and show choir to Danielle’s dedication to basketball and soccer. He was a dedicated father, finding fulfillment in coaching Danielle’s traveling soccer and basketball teams. Randy also devoted his time as a Sunday school teacher and was an active member in the Woodbury Days Committee.

He cherished attending concerts with Beverly and indulging in culinary delights at the state fair. Randy had a deep love for the Kansas City Chiefs, in addition the Royals, the Atlanta Braves, as well as local favorites like the Vikings, Twins, and Wild. Engaging in fantasy football and baseball brought about spirited competition with his brother Robin and father Rick.

Professionally, Randy built a successful career in journalism, starting as a sports editor in Excelsior Springs, MO, and progressing to become editor in Richmond, MO. His journey led him to the Hastings Star Gazette, where he made significant contributions as editor before transitioning into sales. Most recently, he served as the Director of Sales and Marketing at Press Publications in White Bear Lake.

Randy was a beloved figure in the lives of many. His infectious spirit and genuine kindness had a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He shared a strong bond with his golf league and close friends, including Darin Kerns, Joe Stockmann, Greg Meier, and Paul Kennedy.

Randall D. Roberts is preceded in death by his grandparents, Dale and Lois Roberts, and Everett and Dorothy Lockhart, as well as his father-in-law, James Richardson.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Beverly; his daughters, Rachel (Emmett) and Danielle (Tommy) Roberts; his parents, Rick and Linda Roberts; and his brother, Robin (Sara) Roberts; uncle, Reg (Roleene) Roberts; aunt, Gwen (Dan) Silhacek, and aunt, Cheryl (Rusty) McCune; sister-in-law, Linda (Russ) Sulivan, sister-in-Law, Jeanne Richardson; mother-in-law, Lillian Richardson; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a multitude of beloved relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the family to establish a scholarship in honor of Randy’s life.

A visitation was held from 2:00-5:00 pm on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033.

Funeral Services were held at 11:00 am on Monday, March 4, 2024, at Resurrection United Methodist Church, 615 15th St W, Hastings, MN 55033, with a visitation 1 hour prior. Burial at Lakeside Cemetery at 1:00 pm in Hastings, MN, following the reception at the church. Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the arrangements.

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF HUGO

CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING The Hugo City Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, March 18, 2024, at approximately 7:00 pm to consider the easement vacation application from Raj Alexander, 12796 Ethan Avenue North. The applicant had a new wetland delineation on his property and found that there is less wetland on the property than was indicated on a previous delineation. The applicant is requesting that the City vacate the portion of drainage and utility easement over the land previously thought to be wetland. Anyone wishing to comment on any request can be heard at this time. Please call Max Gort, Associate Planner at 651-762-6311 if you have any questions or comments on the application and would like to participate in the meeting.

Max Gort, Associate Planner Published one time in The Citizen on March 7, 2024.

6 THE CITIZEN

MARCH 7, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

HUGO TEACHER: Inspires students to find voice

WHITE BEAR SCHOOL BOARD NOTES • Dr. Jessica Meihe, leading a team from St. Catherine’s University, gave a retrospective report of the Bear Care Health and Wellness Clinic, a nonprofit organization that provides no-cost health services to all students in the White Bear Lake Area School District.

“While centered in North Campus,” Dr. Meihe explained, “Bear Care has 14 mobile clinics that they send to elementary and middle schools as well as South Campus and Area Learning Center … We’ve treated 1,300 students this year.”

Highlights of the services Bear Care provides are as follows: – Vaccinating kids to keep them in schools – Treating acute care needs such as pinkeye – Counseling students regarding short-term mental health issues – Coordinating a registered dietician with the athletics department to educate students on nutrition during Bear Time – Educating ninth grade health class students on recognizing the signs of anxiety “We’re not coming in to take over,” Dr. Meihe said. “We work in collaboration … We do triage, so to speak, then reference students to the applicable resources.”

According to feedback surveys, 20% of patients say that without Bear Care, they would visit an emergency room. Five

FROM PAGE 1

attended New York University for her master’s degree in music technology. While she was studying, she developed a curriculum that focuses on composition and electronic music making, which she brought to Harmony Learning Center. Before Desmarais, the school didn’t have any music programming.

Molly Raab, Harmony Learning Center principal, described Desmarais as a “bright and shining star.”

“Anyone who meets her will automatically be drawn to her warmth and charming personality,” Raab said. “She is also an innovator in music, and she wants to bring the contemporary music world into schools and get people excited about music and really give kids a voice in that area.”

One thing that sets her apart from other teachers, Raab said, is her drive to innovate. “She is always pushing the envelope and trying to get better in her craft and wanting to be better in her profession.”

At Harmony, Desmarais works with nontraditional music students, meaning students who haven’t had the opportunity to perform in ensembles, but are interested in singing or playing an instrument and who aspire to have a career in the music industry.

She uses technology to eliminate barriers that these students might face when it comes to music. “Students of all abilities are capable of creating music and creating something that is their own,” she said. “It really opens the door for those students who

CONTRIBUTED

Gillian Desmarais is being recognized as the 2024 Teacher of the Year by Technology in Music Education (TI:ME).

wouldn’t be able to participate because they didn’t decide to either go through learning an instrument or they don’t have the physical or emotional capability to be able to work through that long-term goal.”

Desmarais shared that she had one student who was really struggling academically when he first entered her classroom.

She said her class opened the door for him, and now he is pursuing a career in music production.

“It has really been an incredible opportunity to see these students who have struggled so much in their lives really find their voice through music,” she said.

In her class, students move through the process of learning about soundwaves and the science of sound, and eventually they progress to creating their own music.

Desmarais attends

conferences all over the country to share her curriculum with other music educators in hopes that it will help students from other schools. She strongly encourages other educators to take advantage of those professional development opportunities.

Following her award recognition, Samsung, Yamaha and several other music technology companies have agreed to donate thousands of dollars worth of equipment to her classroom. “Music controllers, microphones, headphones … you name it,” Desmarais explained. “We are very fortunate to keep building this program up.”

She has one piece of advice for other educators and that is — Don’t be afraid to try new things.

It is easy to allow ourselves to get comfortable with what we know and sticking to that only. Giving yourself the flexibility to try something new and realizing that there are probably going to be mistakes made along the way. As long as you are transparent with your students, that process can be very joyful,” she said.

“Students can also feel not afraid to make mistakes, and it is okay for them to feel vulnerable through the process of learning how to write lyrics that are personal to themselves and create music that makes an impact.”

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

percent say they would receive no care at all.

While 97% of students treated have some form of health insurance, one-third of patients say that because of insurance deductibles, they would have difficulty affording the services that Bear Care freely provides.

• Christina Pierre, principal of Sunrise Middle School, laid out the transition process for students as they move to Mariner Middle School this fall (currently South Campus High School).

“When these kids move from Sunrise,” Pierre said, “South will have been transformed!”

Those entering Mariner Middle can expect to feel meaning, belonging and connection with the school’s history. Pierre also elaborates how the school will instill confidence with incoming students: – Color-coded building sections with a matching colored map – Minimal navigation requirements for sixth graders – F ifth grade spring visit – Open communication between parents and teachers Pierre also noted that logistics such as bike racks and lockers are being accounted for. One thing she did not account for is her daughter’s nickname for the school.

“She’s been calling it Marinara Middle School.”

Logan Gion

Hugo Fire Department recognizes it own

Every year, the Hugo Fire Department (HFD) hosts a banquet to congratulate firefighters with awards and recognize the firefighters who have retired.

Retirements

Doug Millard has retired from the HFD after 13 years of service. He held the roles of firefighter, engineer, chief engineer and relief association board member. Chief Jim Compton Jr. said that when HFD took delivery of the ladder truck, Millard was tasked with outfitting the new truck with tools and organizing it for operation. He also was in charge of making sure

the entire fire department was up to speed on the truck before it went into service. “He spent countless hours dedicated to getting that truck into service.”

Mark Kroll has retired from the HFD after 20 years of service. Chief Jim Compton Jr. said, “(He) was a huge help to the city in filling a void for many years during the daytime hours. On fire scenes, Mark had an incredible knowledge of building construction and was very mechanically inclined; that was very helpful in solving any problem we were faced with.

Mark was an informal teacher,

Doug Millard (middle)

Mark Kroll (middle)

and others learned from him on emergency scenes.”

Not pictured is Kevin Kriegshauser, who retired after 13 years of service.

Active service commendations

Firefighter Jake Jorgenson is recognized for five years of service to HFD. Firefighter Brian Kindelbrger is recognized for 10 years of service to HFD. Firefighter Bob Bieniek is recognized for 15 years of service to HFD.

Jake Jorgenson (right)

Brian Kindelbrger (left)

Commendations

Jason Palmquist receives the Response Commendation for responding to the most calls in 2023.

Allysa Nadeau receives the Drill Commendation for attending the most training drills in 2023.

Ryan Nadeau receives the Special Event Commendation for volunteering for the most community events in 2023.

Bob Biebiek (left)

Jason Palmquist (left)

Alyssa Nadeau

Fire Officer of the Year

Captain Ross Hoernemann was selected as Fire Officer of the Year. The award is picked by the chiefs.

Firefighter of the Year

Allysa Nadeau was selected as Firefighter of the Year by her fellow firefighters. Chief Jim Compton said, “She is the firefighter that showed the best attitude, most dedication, most interest in bettering themselves through education and training, volunteered for community events, taught public education, and is an all-around great person!”

Ryan Nadeau (left)

Ross Hoernemann (left)

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

7

•

ENDING SOON! — COMPACT TRACTOR —

2023 CLOSEOUT SALE LIMITED SUPPLY

1023E TRACTOR & LOADER $19,999

$238/MONTH

0% for 84 Months

Visit mmcjd.com for a full list of closeout savings UP TO $4,000 OFF!*

or

$425/MONTH

0% for 60 Months

OTHER with 42” Mower Deck GREAT $3,799 or DEALS! $83/MONTH 1.9% for 48 Months

Offers end March 31, 2024. Financing subject to approval through John Deere Financial. Some restrictions apply; see dealer for details. Monthly payments based on $0 down payment. Payments do not include sales tax. Financing offers may require a financing fee. *$4,000 off based on cash payment.

798404

$25,499

X330 LAWN TRACTOR

797498

3025E TRACTOR & LOADER

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, March 7; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m.

Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited.

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

HUGO SENIOR CLUB

When: 1 p.m. Monday, March 18; the 3rd Monday of every month Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Monthly meeting includes planning for future activities, followed by afternoon of games. Coffee and refreshments served.

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

CURRENT EVENTS

MOBILITY AND PARKING STUDY OPEN HOUSE

When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 7 Where: White Bear Lake City Hall, 4701 Highway 61 Details: Public invited to provide input for upcoming downstown street and parking lot reconstruction.

Contact: whitebearlake.org/mobility

VLAWMO GRANT PROGRAMS 101

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, March 7 Where: Gem Lake Heritage Hall, 4200

Where: West Recreation Building, 14 W Pleasant Lake Rd., North Oaks Details: Learn about aquatic invasives in local waters and how to become a volunteer who monitors new infestations in lakes. RSVP. Contact: vlawmo.org/events

LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD SATURDAY SEW-IN

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, March 13 Where: Vadnais Heights Commons Details: Make an appointment at redcrossblood.org.

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

When: 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 9 Where: Shoreview Library, 4560 Victoria St. N. Details: Lakeshore Quilters will be working on their own quilting projects.

Stop in to see what projects are being worked on.

ANNUAL WHITE BEAR LAKE CLEANUP

When: Saturday, March 9 Where: Frozen White Bear Lake Details: Local Scouting groups partner with the White Bear Lake Conservation District, area Geocachers, and community volunteers to pick up trash on the frozen lake before the ice melts.

Becomes a land-based clean-up if ice-out is early.

Contact: wblcd.org

PLASTICS AND CLIMATE ACTION

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 13; 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, March 14 Where: Zoom Details: Leage of Women Voters-White Bear Lake Area sponsors presentation with experts on the topic of increasing use of plastics and how it is accelerating climate change, recycling effectiveness and solutions to pollution. Free and open to the public. Register to get link.

Contact: lwv-wbla.org

RAINGARDENS 101

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, March 14 Where: Gem Lake Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Rd. Details: Learn about raingardens, if they are a good fit, planning and maintenange

SHINRIN-YOKU: FOREST BATHING

When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, March 9 Where: Wargo Nature Center Details: Learn the Japanese practice of “bathing in the forest atmosphere”, an immersive experience in nture through a gentle, guided walk. Registration information online.

Contact: anokacountyparks.com

strategies, and how to fund projects. Free with registration.

Contact: 651-204-6070 or vlawmo.org/ events

SAP TO SYRUP

When: Noon-2:30 p.m. March 16 & 23 Where: Tamarack Nature Center, White Bear Township Details: Tap maple trees, boil sap, enjoy maple crafts and treats, and take a self-guided tour. All ages. Registration required.

Contact: ramseycounty.us/residents/ parks-recreation/tamarack-nature-center

SHAKE YOUR SHAMROCK

When: 11 a.m. Saturday, March 16 at Kelly’s Korner Bar, 7089 Centerville Road, Centerville Details: This flat and fast course conveniently located just north of St. Paul in Centerville offers free parking close to the start and finish. The post party is a must! Hospitality provided by Kelly’s Korner Bar. First beer is free to those with a bib (must be 21 or older). There’s a distance for every ability - 5k and 7k on paved trails that are both stroller and pet friendly while also accommodating the competitive runner.

Contact: https://midwestevents.com/mweevent/shake-your-shamrock-2

WEEKLY WAG If you are looking for a sweet, gentle, quiet, loyal companion, then Gwennie is waiting for you.

Gwennie is a 1 1/2-year-old pit bull terrier mix and she weighs about 50 pounds.

Gwennie is house-trained, crate-trained and leash-trained, and she knows her basic commands.

She loves all the people she meets, but she is not very fond of other dogs

AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES TRAINING When: 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 12

or cats. Gwennie would do best in a forever home as an only pet.

Gwennie’s foster says she is the sweetest girl who always wants human affection.

She’s constantly nudging her foster’s arm/ hand for pets and thinks she’s a lap dog. Gwennie is always by her human’s side and any couch time or downtime is snuggle time in Gwennie’s world.

But, she is also playful and intelligent, loves to go for walks and is always eager to please.

Gwennie is from a local impound and would be a wonderful addition to a loving forever person or family. If you are interested in learning more about Gwennie or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once

your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

FREE TRIP CHARGE With repair

$109 value!

Valid during regular business hours • Expires 3/30/24 *Servicing all brands Licensed, Bonded, Insured

2023

of the Pres s

24/7 Emergency Service Serving the St. Paul and Surrounding Area

651-426-5220

Read our reviews and check out our current promotions at

www.krinkies.com

796474

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

Otter Lake Rd. Details: Learn about drainage improvements, erosion control, alternative turf, native plantings and more, get idead for landscaping projects, and see examples. Free; register online.

Contact: 651-204-6070 or vlawmo.org/ events

MARCH 7, 2024

When you need us, we are here to help.

799055

ONGOING EVENTS

www.readthecitizen.com

799068

8 THE CITIZEN

WHAT’S HAPPENING

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

5.10

THE CITIZEN

9

13-MONTH % APY CERTIFICATE *

Don’t Miss Out On This Great Rate!

No minimum opening balance Locked-in rate Guaranteed returns Business & IRA certificates included

Open in office or online at rcu.org/SaveAtRoyal

800-341-9911

798986

Insured by NCUA.*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APY is current as of 03/01/2024. Last changed on 03/01/2024. No minimum balance required to open account or earn APY. Rate is subject to change at any time without notice. Dividends calculated daily, compounded and paid monthly. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal.

Penalties could reduce the earnings and principal on the account. Membership required and account opening upon qualification. Other conditions or restrictions may apply. Refer to our disclosures and service fees for more information.

2024 Summer Camp Directory

798040

798035

Scan QR Code for more details on individual camps

Make it a

ENROL BEFORE L M 1st SAVE AY $50

!

Summer

PREVENT SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

798037

798038

Secure your spot and save today at

21-SP08

(651) 748-8645

info@maplewoodmuseum.org

Publications1Camp Guide Ad_A.indd 1 21-SP08 Press Publications Camp21-SP08 GuidePress Ad_A.indd

798034

MaplewoodMuseum.org/Daycamps

www.mathnasium.com Enroll Now For Summer or to Finish Up The School Year Strong!

2/4/21 2/4/21 1:19 1:19 PMPM

798036

THINK SUMMER

White Bear Lake 4715 Highway 61 N 651-888-2541 21-SP08

Explore our programs THINK SUMMER and register online at Explore our programs ymcanorth.org/summer. ouratprograms andExplore register online ymcanorth.org/summer. and register online at ymcanorth.org/summer.

21-SP08

798013

Summer Day Camps THINK SUMMER At the Bruentrup Heritage Farm

10 THE CITIZEN

MARCH 7, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

METROPOLITAN COUNCIL: No clear future for governance remodel FROM PAGE 1

example of the latter involves the council’s leadership on the ongoing near-$3 billion Southwest Light Rail transit project, which has faced heavy criticism because of delays and poor financial budgeting in recent years.

Some on the task force have favored the directly elected model approach, such as Democratic Senator Scott Dibble, the latter of whom proposed a bill advocating this council reform. Dibble stated that this system would ensure that those elected would be best suited for the job based on qualification and experience and would be more accountable to the public.

Other task force members, however, pushed for an opposite approach. One such bill, put forth by Rep. John Koznick, would continue the council’s current governor-appointed-based model, but would stagger members’ terms and expand membership of the nomination committee.

One notable proponent of this example came from Karen Schaffer. Schaffer is the current chair of the Council of Metropolitan Area League of Women’s Voters, whose mission is to expand the knowledge and effectiveness of members concerning regional issues about Metropolitan Council governance. Schaffer testified to the task force at its Jan. 10 meeting on the topic of a government-appointed-model versus an elected-official one.

“I understand that accountability is a valid concern,” Schaffer said. “The advantage of staggered terms is that it allows you to keep people already

on the learning curve about the issues the council is focusing on. It’s about our members having some historical perspective and learning about those who have previously served on the board.”

A past study by the League found that only 30% of elected officials interviewed favored the appointment of those elected officials to the council. A full 70% were against such a model, stating that officials from representative districts already work full-time jobs to serve the interests of their respective areas, and appointing them to the council would lead to them having incompatible interests associated with serving two different constituencies.

These conflicting visions ultimately led the task force to publish a “Problem Statement” on Jan. 17, in which its members determined that there was too much widespread confusion and disagreement about who is and who should be held accountable for the MET Council’s vision, planning, execution and performance evaluation. Further recommendations in the Problem Statement stated that the Legislature should address, as per any Metropolitan Council reform or changes in governance, how the council should be accountable to the public and state and local governments.

On Jan. 27, the task force adopted several principles to guide the Legislature in considering the current reform proposals, should they be looked at in the future. No additional task force meetings are intended to take place throughout the remainder of the year.

DID YOU KNOW?

• The Metropolitan Council was created in 1967 in response to significant challenges the region was facing, such as poor wastewater management, a privately owned bus company on the verge of failure, and fiscal disparities, which left many communities at a disadvantage in supplying essential services to their residents.

• The council planned for the economic development of all seven counties in the metro area, coordinating delivery services that no one county or city could help deliver.

• Further legislation from the council was instrumental in creating the Metro Transit Commission, the regional parks system, a tax-base sharing system, and a regional sewer system, all

between 1967 and 1974.

• The council partners with 181 different cities and townships, seven counties, and various other government entities, nonprofit organizations, and businesses to devise policies guiding further strategic growth on bettering these locations.

• The council’s primary services and infrastructure include Metro Mobility, wastewater treatment services, affordable housing and Metro Transit’s bus and rail system, among many others. The council also relies on many different sources for funding, such as state and federal funds, county property taxes and user fees for wastewater treatment and transit services.

THURSDAY’S AT 7:00pm MEAT RAFFLE FRIDAY’S AT 5pm

RAFFLES • Friday 5pm •Wednesday 6pm

4941 Long Avenue, White Bear Lake lakeshoreplayers.org | 651.478.7427

9AM 6PM

4941 Long Avenue, White Bear Lake childrensperformingartsmn.org | 651.336.8613

BINGO

MEAT RAFFLES WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY 5PM

MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

WHITE BEAR LAKE HOCKEY #03111

PULLTABS PULLTABS PULLTABS

WE OFFER A LARGE SELECTION OF GAMES!! $5, $4, $3, $2 & $1 85% PAYOUT! POSTED AND NON POSTED AND MUCH MORE!

Saturday at 12:30pm Saturday at 12:30pm BINGO Monday at 6pm Saturday at 12:30pm

License #03111 770839

BINGO MON & WED 6PM

White Bear Lake Youth Hockey

770839

4971 Long Avenue, White Bear Lake whitebeararts.org | 651.407.0597

799056 797535

WHITE BEAR LAKE | AVENUE OF THE ARTS

White Bear Lake Hockey Association 779765

799059 796983 790155 788206 785875

whitebearlakehockeycharitablegambling

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

COPS&COURTS

HUGO TREE CARE Specializing in Difficult Removal

• A motorist was arrested at 12:25 a.m. Jan. 29 on Heritage Parkway N. for DWI after Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies initiated a traffic stop for poor driving conduct and registration that expired in March 2023. The driver submitted to standardized field sobriety testing and a portable breath test, which resulted in a 0.26 reading.

• Burglary of an unattached shop of a property in the 5000 block of 165th Street N. was reported at 11:08 a.m. Jan. 29, during which power tools were stolen.

• A resident in the 7000 block of Oneka Lake Blvd.

N. at 12:14 p.m. Jan. 29 reported receiving a phone call about purchasing a pickup truck and that he would only need to pay for the shipping.

The complainant knew it was a scam and hung up on the caller.

• A resident in the 4000 block of Rosemary Way at 12:17 p.m. Jan. 29 reported giving her exboyfriend a phone, which she shut off when they broke up. However, the ex now has the cell phone back and is using it through a different carrier.

• P roperty damage was reported at 9:22 p.m. Jan. 29 in the 6000 block of 145th Circle N. • Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 6:47 p.m.

Feb. 1 on Forest Blvd. N. and issued a citation for undisclosed violations. They conducted another traffic stop at 1:20 a.m. Feb. 2 on Forest Blvd. N. and 159th Street N. on a vehicle with its hazard lights on and a male driving well below the speed limit on the shoulder. Deputies conducted a third traffic stop at 5:52 p.m. Feb. 2 on 170th Street N. and Jeffrey Avenue N. and issued a citation to the driver.

• A n unidentified male was arrested on a

READ REUSE RECYCLE

By way of explanation of his driving under the influence, the driver admitted to coming from downtown Stillwater.

The driver submitted to standardized field sobriety tests and a portable breath test, which indicated a blood alcohol content of 0.13. At the Washington County jail, the driver was booked and released with a citation.

• A resident in the 4000 block of Empress Way N. at 10:57 a.m. Feb. 4 reported that a vehicle that was supposed to have been transported to Florida was still in Minnesota, after she checked the location of the airtag that had been installed in the vehicle. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies advised the complainant that the incident was a civil breach of contract issue with the transportation company.

• A vehicle was reported damaged in the Festival Foods parking lot in the 1000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 4:05 p.m. Feb. 24 while the complainant was inside the store shopping.

• Residents in the 5000 block of 137th Street N. at 9:10 a.m. Feb. 5 reported identity theft and credit card fraud.

• Snowmobile parts were reported stolen at 9:53 a.m. Feb. 5 from the 1000 block of Harrow Avenue N.

If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet.

CHURCH DIRECTORY Find the church that fits your needs

5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381 • www.fpcwbl.org

736791

736543 760824 in

789219 768099 778161

Travel Agent – Jenn Schultz Specializing in  Family vacations  Disney destinations  Adult trips  Cruise vacations  Multi-generational  All-inclusive vacations trips FREE, personalized service for ALL your travel needs.

Leave the worry to me, so you can relax!

612.695.5462

jenn@storybookdestinations.com

14725 Victor Hugo Blvd |Hugo

License number 03934-008

8001 Lake Drive Lino Lakes

License number 03934-007

Blue Heron Grill & The Tavern on Main

Pull Tabs

11:00AM to Close Blue Heron Grill

BINGO ON SATURDAY Starting at 1:00PM

Meat Raffle

Mon & Thurs 5:00PM

UP TO $26,000 PER EMPLOYEE

Celebrate Mass with us!

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

Use reference code Citizen for $1,000 of additional free advertising with the code per-email for our ERTC consulting services Book a free, no obligation phone call:

793589 762054

To advertise here, call Randy at 651-407-1212 or email lowdown@presspubs.com

762058

EasyTaxCredits.com Phone: 1-234-273-3487

761757

651‐429‐7937

Storybook Destinations

YOU COULD QUALIFY FOR A TAX CREDIT OF

Service times are subject to change during the coronavirus crisis. Contact your local church or check church web sites for service time and online service information.

Sunday Join us onWorship Sunday:

www.stgens.org

Certified Arborist

Attention: Business owners

10:15Livestreaming am in-person Worship on and Live-streaming on YouTube: FPCWBL YouTube: FPCWBL

Lutheran Church

www.hugotree.com

Loretta Harding

[Think GREEN]

Pastor Gregory S. Musolf LCMS 807 Hwy. 97 SE, Forest Lake, MN messiahlutheranmn.com • 651-464-6842 Worship - 9:00 AM SS/Bible Study - 10:30 AM

651-429-4705

799306

• A resident in the 1000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 1:39 p.m. Jan. 28 reported damage to the steering column of a vehicle he was trying to sell.

warrant at 8:10 p.m. Feb. 2 at the American Legion in the 5000 block of 140th Street N. after deputies conducted a welfare check on the male.

• A burglary was reported at 11:00 p.m. Feb. 2 in the 4000 block of Fable Hill Parkway N. • Residents in the 6000 block of 145th Circle N. at 10:58 p.m. Feb. 2 reported juveniles for egging their house. The complainants said they did not have video footage of the incident but could obtain footage from a neighbor with a Ring doorbell camera.

• A resident in the 5000 block of Evergreen Drive N. at 10:01 a.m. Feb. 3 reported her ex-boyfriend for taking the dog they shared, although she didn’t want him to take it. Deputies advised the complainant that the incident was a civil matter.

• A motorist of undisclosed identity was arrested for DWI at 4:59 a.m. Feb. 3 on Forest Blvd. N. and 170th Street N. following a traffic stop for speeding 68 mph in a 55 mph zone. On contact with the driver, deputies noticed several signs of impairment about the driver, including bloodshot, watery and red eyes.

784778

HUGO POLICE REPORTS

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents: • A suspicious vehicle reported parked on private property in the 5000 block of Oneka Lake Blvd.

N. at 11:17 a.m. Jan. 28 turned out to have been involved in an arrest the previous night and not parked on anyone’s property.

• A motorist was issued a written warning for speeding 47 mph in a 35 mph zone in the 7000 block of eastbound Egg Lake Road at 1:09 p.m.

Jan. 28, after deputies clocked the vehicle on radar.

11

Promotional offer: some restriction apply.

Easy Tax Credits not responsible for fulfillment of promotional offer.

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

CLASSIFIEDS

12 THE CITIZEN

www.presspubs.com

MARCH 7, 2024

Press Publications suggests that you be aware of advertisers requesting payment for shipping merchandise. Confirm and verify all contact resources prior to sending any money. Take caution when responding to text messages that are not local numbers.

DEADLINE FOR

362

• CLASSIFIED LINE ADS

Miscellaneous

MONDAY THURSDAY9:00AM 4 PM • DISPLAY ADS

THURSDAYNOON 4 PM FRIDAY 651-407-1250 classified@presspubs.com (Earlier deadlines for Holidays)

23

Free Items Free chips & logs Call 651-775-8602

58

Trucks/Vans/ SUVs 2018 Dodge Quad, Fully Loaded – Like New! $16,500 651430-1421 after 5p

104

Hauling/Moving Scrap metal appliance pick up 651-329-0815

300

For Sale 2023 NEW RV RAM Sequence. full loaded $150,000 call for details. 612-940-2227

300

For Sale NEON BAR SIGNS Coor's Light: $250 Miller Light: $150 Jose Cuervo: $300 651-248-9307 WILLMAR ELECTRIC is looking for a state-licensed journeyman to join our team. Apply online at www.willmarelectric.com/careers/ to join our team and grow with us! Exciting opportunities for advancement!

340

Thrifties Freezer for sale Upright Freezer 27 x 27 x 52-$100 Call 612-433-7757

358

Firewood 100% 3YrDryRed Oak Fireplace Cord $150 RedOakFullCord $425 Call 651-214-0718

GET DISH Satellite TV + internet! Free install, free HD-DVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 in gift cards. Call today! 855/562-4309

Miscellaneous ALASKA, EUROPE, HAWAII plus dozens of other popular trips!

Starting at $1649 per person (double occupancy required.) YMT Vacations plans everything, leaving you to relax and enjoy.

Call 866/577-6646 for more details. Use promo code YMT2024 for $250 off. Limited time only.

SAFE STEP North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today!

Financing available.

Call Safe Step 833/966-3882

369

Want to Buy

Miscellaneous Miscellaneous

Wanted to Buy WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not. Titled or not. Will pick up.

Cash in exchange.

Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142

IS 2024 YOUR YEAR? We're here for it and here for you.

Reach your goals this year with Weight Watchers. Get started with THREE months FREE, visit www.weightwatchersoffer.com/48

We Buy Vinyl Records Lps, 45s, Stereo Equip We make house calls by appointment.

White Bear Lake Records 4775 Banning Ave,WBL wblrecords.com 651-224-4947

Ice Castle RV Edition 2015 Ice castle RV 24';tandem axle with / hydraulic's. Tonue and groove inside finish sleeps 6 and has flush able toilet. $19,500 Call for 612-710-6021

DONATE YOUR CAR, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844/220-9501

DryOak 8'x4'x16”$150 delivr'd 651-900-3094

362

403

Boutiques JBF Kids' Sale WBL south campus 3551 McKnight rd.

March. 13-16 Wed-Fri 9am-8pm Sat.9am-2pm FREE ADMISSION

451

Rentals/ Commercial 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.

506

• Employment • Employment • Employment • Employment • CIRCULATION Part time 20 Hrs a week Duties include:

Circulation calls; Help maintain customer information and routes; Work with youth and adult carriers.

Please send your resume to AR@presspubs.com

Now Hiring Executive Director The Greater White Bear Lake Community Foundation seeks to hire an Executive Director to serve as the key leader responsible for working with community leaders to positively grow the foundation to have greater impact for community members and nonprofit organization partners.

Candidates can read about the required qualifications for the position and apply through the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits job board website. The GWBLCF website is www.gwblcf.org.

Seasonal Public Works Maintenance Employee The City of Lexington is accepting applications for a seasonal Public Works Maintenance employee (20-40 hours/week), to assist in regular and recurring maintenance, installation and repair work associated with the City’s parks, streets, utilities, and buildings. The position starts before Memorial Day and ends after Labor Day (start and end time is flexible). Position pays $18.00/hour. A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is essential.

Applications available Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm, at Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 or online at http://www.ci.lexington.mn.us/.

Position is open until filled.

White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (subject to change, between Memorial Day – Labor Day).

Salary range from $17.00/hour to $20.00/hour depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.

Applications are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at the Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship.org. No application deadline; open until positions are filled.

CITY OF MAHTOMEDI SEASONAL FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT MAINTENANCE WORKER The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/ move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license.

The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/hr. depending on qualifications.

Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained Are you looking for something at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, to keepMN your55115 child(ren) busy?

Mahtomedi, or at its website about something that gives atHow www.ci.mahtomedi.mn.us.

Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity them cash?

Talk toEmployer. them about

delivering newspapers!

ROUTES AVAILABLE FOR WHITE BEAR PRESS: • Rte 676 – N of 82nd St – E of Fox Rd • Rte 678 – S of Birch St – E of Fawn Ln • Rte 295 – N of 96 – E of Portland • Rte 114 – S of Cty F – E of Bellaire • Rte 262 – Lake Ave – E of Hwy 61 • Rte 263 – N of Lake – E of Hwy 61 • Rte 246 – N of 4th Ave – E of Bald Eagle • Rte 632 – S of North Rd – W of Center Park • Rte 274 – S of Bald Eagle – W of Hwy 61 • Rte 128 – S of Cty Rd F – W of White Bear Ave • Main Street Business District – downtown White Bear Lake Other Routes available, call our Circulation Dept. at 651-407-1246.

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.

Real Estate Condo/TH Specialist Ken Kirby RE Broker Call/Txt 651.238.3438

SEND YOUR RESUME TO PATTY STEELE AT MARKETING@PRESSPUBS.COM OR CALL 651-407-1213

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS

Fire departments respond to chicken coop fire

medi, White Bear Lake and Lino Lakes fire departments as well as the Centennial Fire District. Most of the automatic aid response was canceled due to a quick knockdown of the fire. There were no injuries.

Sheriff’s Office, BCA form task force

NORTH METRO FIRE BUFF | CONTRIBUTED

Hugo firefighters work on extinguishing a fire in a chicken coop in Hugo.

The Hugo Fire Department was called to a fire in a detached structure in the 7200 block of 165th Street in Hugo at 6:40 p.m. on Feb.20. Upon their arrival, they found heavy fire coming from a chicken coop on the back side of a garage that had extended to a camper, pine trees and a treehouse.

Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading to the garage. Fire crews were on scene for an hour and a half.

Because of information that the Washington County Communications Center received, automatic aid was dispatched to tanker in water. Automatic aid was received from Forest Lake, Scandia, Stillwater, Mahto-

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) will form a multiagency task force called the Minnesota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

The Washington County Board of Commissioners recently adopted a resolution authorizing the Sheriff’s Office to enter a joint powers agreement with the State of Minnesota, acting through its commissioner of Public Safety on behalf of the BCA. The task force will investigate and prosecute crimes against children and the criminal exploitation of children that are committed and/or facilitated by or using computers. The task force also aims to disrupt and dismantle organizations engaging in such activity. The BCA will receive federal funding to assist law enforcement in investigating and combating the exploitation of children using computers. The BCA will provide funding for equipment, training and expenses, including travel and overtime, that are incurred by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office during such investigations. The term of this agreement is five years.

Hugo man charged for bad check

Andrew John Leroux, 40, of Hugo is being charged by the Olmsted County Attorney’s Office with two felonies: motor vehicle theft and issuing a dishonored check.

According to the criminal complaint, Rochester

police responded to a dealership in the 3300 block of Wilder Road Northwest on the report of a stolen vehicle April 28, 2023. An employee reported that a man, later identified as Leroux, used a personal check to buy a 2021 Ford F-250 truck.

The check was written out for $66,760.50 and appeared to be associated with an account that had sufficient funds. However, staff at the dealership then discovered the bank account that was associated with that check was closed after Leroux left the dealership, according to the criminal complaint.

Employees at the dealership attempted to contact Leroux, but the phone number he provided had been disconnected. Rochester police contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to request they try to find the vehicle. Washington County deputies found the vehicle located in a shed on Leroux’s property.

The truck was towed from his Hugo property.

Local man dies in plane crash

Several Afton residents reported hearing an explosion just before 9:45 a.m. Saturday, March 2 near the 15000 block of Afton Hills Blvd. S. According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews arrived and located a small, fully engulfed aircraft that had crashed in the yard of a residence near the attached garage. Lower St. Croix Valley Fire Department extinguished the flames and located the bodies of two men, identified as William Patrick Moore, 85, of White Bear Lake, and Mitchell Jay Zahler, 68, of Baytown Township.

The incident, including the cause of the crash and any contributing factors, remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

13

WHITE BEAR PRESS | VADNAIS PRESS | QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | SHOREVIEW PRESS | NORTH OAKS PRESS | THE CITIZEN | THE LOWDOWN

THE MARKETPLACE PAINTING

DRYWALL One deck at a time since 1987

(651) 344.1849 Lic. # BC647749

AUTO

DRYWALL

LORENZ DRYWALL

• CHANGING CEILINGS OVER TO KNOCK DOWNS • TAPING • SPRAYING • ADDITIONS • BASEMENTS • NEW HOMES • GARAGES

No job too small!

Kerry (Cell)

651-653-9021 651-271-4221

BATHROOM

Bathrooms by • Design • Bath Repair • Remodeling • Tub Surrounds • Free Estimates

BEAUTIFUL RESULTS ARE JUST A BRUSH STROKE AWAY

HUGE SAVINGS! Lic. #20060261

CALL LEE

(651) 428-0229 Forest Lake

651-257-4706

www.youngcastlebathrooms.com

CARPENTRY

Schneider Custom Woodworks

(651) 426-6000 www.whitebear plumbing.com

Todd Binde, Owner Call 651-261-3124 or email angeluspainting@gmail.com

CUSTOM WOODWORKS

Commercial & Residential

Custom CABINETRY!

Master Electrician

651-346-8185 EMERGENCY SERVICE

651-213-6638

schneidercustomwoodwork.com

CLEANING

FEED MILL

Hugo Feed Mill and Hardware Your Local Hardware Store & More

Pet Food & Supplies Bird & Wildlife Feed Lawn & Garden Supplies Household Waste Construction Debris Appliances Furniture

651-429-3361

www.hugofeedmill.com

MJ’s Concrete, LLC

15+ years of Experience!

651.795.9736 mjsconcretellc.com DECKS

Custom Decks/Footing/

northlandlandscape.com www.northlandlandscape.com Bonded Insured | Lic #BC638094 Bonded Insured • Lic #BC638094

Major Credit Cards Accepted budgettreeservice@outlook.com

Design-Build Bathrooms, Kitchens & Additions Discover the Difference!

TREE SERVICE

Cameron

Tree Service

No Job too Small No Tree too Tall

RETHINK.RE-DESIGN. RE-DESIGN. RECREATE. RETHINK. RECREATE. RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RECREATE.

RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RECREATE. RECREATE. RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RECREATE. RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RECREATE.

Scan for Reviews and Website!

• Drain Cleaning • Hot Water Heating • Hot Water Heaters & Disposal • Well Pump Service • New Construction • Remodeling

REMODELING REMODELING REMODELING REMODELING REMODELING Tom Thill 651-433-4866 REMODELING Since1973 1973 Since MNBC000001 Since MNBC000001 1973 MNBC000001 REMODELING Since 1973 MNBC000001 (651)429-8032 Since(651)429-8032 1973 MNBC000001 REMODELING REMODELING (651)429-8032 Since Since1973 1973 MNBC000001 MNBC000001

• Affordable Tree Trimming & Removal • 26 years of experience • Family owned • Senior & Veteran Discounts • Stump Grinding

Licensed & Insured

ROOFING

(651) 775-8602

“Your Local Exterior Specialists” Residential - Hardie Plank

Roofing s Siding s Windows Gutters s Fascia & Soffit

www.pra?homes.com www.pra?homes.com 651-407-1987 (651)429-8032 (651)429-8032 Since 1973 MNBC000001 Since 1973 MNBC000001 (651)429-8032 List your business in the

www.pra?homes.com www.pra?homes.com www.pra?homes.com www.pra?homes.com

(651)429-8032 section. www.pra?homes.com (651)429-8032 . (651)429-8032 Call for details:

Call-A-Specialist

MN Lic.# BC223025

.

www.pra?homes.com www.pra?homes.com 651-407-1221 .

.

Quality Work • Reasonable Rates

Tree Removal Tree Trimming Brush & Stump Removal

651-426-8660 FREE ESTIMATE

.

Fast, Dependable, Insured

.

ROOFING

.

TIMBERLINE

ROOFING CONTRACTING Roofing AND Siding Windows Roofing Siding Windows

Storm Restoration Specialists STORM RESTORATION SPECIALISTS

651-287-3720 612-284-5329

MEET YOUR SPECIALIST

Your time is valuable, let us take care of your lawn and snow removal needs!

Dave’s New Look Services is a small family run business. We specialize in lawn care and snow removal. We endeavor to make your lawn stand out amongst your neighbors lawns and clear your driveway of pesky snow.

Being a small family run business allows us to work one-on-one with you and take care of your individual needs and concerns.

LAWN CARE

SCH Services, LLC

• Initial & Fall Yard Clean-Up • Snow Removal • Driveway Seal Coating

Spring Clean up Specials Lawn Care Contracts commercial and residential

monthly or per visit Sean 651-210-0061

651-426-8660 651-426-8660

paultheplumberinc.net

651-746-4582

www.SCHservices.net

Fast, dependable, Fast, dependable,insured insured

651-429-1817

Bonded Insured Lic. #BC638094 www.northlandlandscape.com

stom Decks/Footing Repair Repairs/Remodels/Pole reen Rooms/Additions Barns/Garages/Additions & Porches/All rages/Roofi ng/SidingRepairs/Fences/ Roofing/Siding uminum/Glass/Cable RailingsCall Us for WINTER SPECIALS Repairs 651-746-4582 651-746-4582

BACK YARDS NO PROBLEM PROBLEM!!

NO

763-316-9630 RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RETHINK. RE-DESIGN. RECREATE. RECREATE. 651-429-7077 PLUMBING

STUMP REMOVAL REMOVAL Same Service Free Day Estimates

Utilizing God’s Guidance....

To Provide the Excellent Plumbing Service You Expect and Deserve

Marty Hunt & Dale Lundstrom

.

Ponds & Waterfalls, Paver Patios, Driveways, Concrete, Bobcat Work, Grading, Sod, Retaining, Walls & Tree Work, Plants, Mulch and Rock.

NorconHomes.com

Highest Quality Workmanship!

HEATING & COOLING

LANDSCAPING

651-238-6751

REMODELING

.

Furnace & A/C Installations and Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured 651.426.4233 cphvac.net

STUMP REMOVAL

Insured / Lic #BC105943

Sheetrock Hanging ■ Tapng ■ Interior Painting ■ Knockdown ■ Resprays

■

5582 146th St. N., Hugo, MN 55038

Concrete Professionals

Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios and Steps All your Concrete needs www.SCHconcrete.com 651-210-0061 Sean

Twin Cities Premier Home Improvement Company

Locally Owned Since 1994

NEW HOMES • BASEMENTS • REMODELS • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

CONCRETE

SCH Services

ALL REMODELING

Lic #686889

Lic. #005402

Free Estimates & Callbacks within 24 hours

651-500-1758

davesnewlookservices@gmail.com davesnewlook.com (Servicing Metro & Surrounding Areas)

PAINTING/DRYWALL

ARROW

• Repair Circuits • Recepts Added • Remodels • Panels Replaced • Ceiling Fans • Electric Car Chargers

BATHROOMS ~ KITCHENS BASEMENTS ~ TILES

www.angeluspainting.com

ELECTRIC

Small Jobs Welcome

• Snow Removal • Fall & Spring Cleanup • Residential & Commercial

ResidentIal

p l CommercIal c. umb in g in

INTERIOR & CABINET PAINTING 35 Years of Experience

New Const & Basement Finishes Residential/Commercial Family Owned & Operated 40 yrs • Since 1979 Insured

Your time is valuable!

Let us take care of your needs!

ite bear wh

1

Wolf Bros. Drywall Co. Total Drywall Services

SNOW MAINTENANCE Dave’s New Look Services

ANGELUS PAINTING

Tim Copeland Construction

REMODELING

PLUMBING

728200

APPLIANCE REPAIR

Dave’s New Look Services

• Lawn Mow/Trim/Blow • Aeration

CALL US TODAY: 651.500.1758 davesnewlook.com • Hugo, MN Davesnewlookservices@gmail.com

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

14 THE CITIZEN

www.readthecitizen.com

MARCH 7, 2024

Cougar skaters foil Maple Grove, earn state berth

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

The Centennial Cougars are state tournament-bound after tripping top-seeded Maple Grove 5-2 in the Section 5AA hockey championship game Thursday evening in Elk River.

Centennial takes a 19-7-1 record into the state tournament. Maple Grove, which beat the Cougars 4-2 in a conference game, finished 21-7.

The Cougars are seeded No. 3 at state and will open against Cretin-Derham Hall on Thursday, 1 p.m., at Xcel Energy Center.

“This team has truly bought into the TEAM philosophy and it paid off,” coach Ritch Menne

said. “The boys played an intense game while staying disciplined in all aspects.”

No. 2 seeded Centennial struck twice on power plays a minute apart in the second period to open a 3-1 lead. Heath Nelson scored at 2:40 after a tripping penalty.

Nick Carls scored at 3:38 (Harper Searles assisting) after a high-sticking penalty.

Nelson also scored in the first period. Searles and Joey Hemr found the net 12 seconds apart in the third period. at 10:04 and 10:16, for a 5-1 lead.

Centennial had a 41-30 edge in shots with Cody Easton making 28 saves.

Lucas Bursch and David Kukkonen each got one

past him.

This will be Centennial’s fifth state tournament. The 2004 team was state champions. The other trips were in 2013, 2014 and 2018.

Menne said the team started building up confidence that they could make state after the holiday break. They were 4-4-1 in December.

“In January, we went 9-0-1,” he noted, “and then we beat White Bear Lake at start of February, so knew we had a good chance.”

Right after that, the Cougars lost three straight hard-fought games, to Maple Grove, Elk River and Andover, but it didn’t faze their confidence, Menne said.

CONTRIBUTED

The Cougars piled together for a championship team photo after defeating Maple Grove 5-2.

They’ve outscored five teams 34-7 since then.

Wins over the Bears, No. 9 ranked Rogers (5-1, section semifinals)

and No. 8 Maple Grove helped the Cougars earn the No. 3 seed.

Top scorers are Searles (24 goals, 41 assists,

65 points) and Nelson (35-28-63), followed by Austin Petersen (11-2637) and Alex Clampitt (15-19-34).

Bears in state tourney after toppling Pioneers

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

BRENNAN SCHACHTNER | CONTRIBUTED

Whooping it up with the section trophy were Kevin Laska (3), Nolan Roed and Jack Stanius (8) whole team has dreamed of.”

The massive crowd, said Roed, “is the best part of those big games and it really just feeds into the intensity out on the ice.”

The Bears were able to strike quickly.

Roed cut back and threw the puck down to Stanius, who fired off a quick shot.

Kevin Laska was diving to the net. The puck hit him and went off the pipe, and Stanius buried it. “Just the start we needed,” Roed said.

After that, H-M never permitted another close-range shot by the Bears and outshot them 35-15 until the two empty-net shots.

With the Pioneer goalie pulled and

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Easton Cody Brol Scherman Centennial Hockey Centennial Lacrosse

Easton Cody, Centennial hockey goalie, playedstandout, a key rolehas in the Brol Scherman, Centennial junior lacrosse netted Cougars a state tournament berth week. The 22 goalscapturing and provided seven assists for thelast Cougars (4-2) while 5-foot-11, 175-pound junior stopped 83 of 86 shots in three section notching 17 ground balls (a change of possession statistic). games, withwas 41 saves in a 5-1 winas over Rogers and 28 in a36 5-2goals finals Scherman all-conference a sophomore with win over top-seeded Maple Grove.

For the season he has a .922 and 28 assists. The recruiting website ILMCA said of him: “Endsave percentage andmachine 2.47 goals-against-average.

Anotherboth highlight to-end playmaking with striking confidence on wasoff making 39 saves in a 2-1offensive win over White a state and the field.

Versatile threatBear withLake, strong outside tournament team.

“Easton has an unbelievable work ethic,” coach shooting and crease finishing skills. Magnetic team leader and Ritch Menne said. “He’s always at practice a half hour early doing positive influencer.” drills with other guys. He’s super athletic, very quick. And he’s just a ‘gamer,’ making game-saving saves regularly.”

We Buy Buy used used vehicles vehicles We FAMILY OWNED OWNED SINCe SINCe 1981 1981 FAMILY

3555 Hoffman Hoffman Rd Rd White White Bear Bear Lake, Lake, MN MN 3555 651-488-8400 || www.longsauto.com www.longsauto.com 651-488-8400

the Bears in a power play, Blake Eckerle back-handed an empty net goal with 1:00 left and sailed down the ice in celebration to a thunderous celebration by Bears fans. Roed added another empty-netter with two seconds left.

Gabriel turned back some point-blank shots and a couple of one-on-one’s among his 35 stops.

“Leo was great. He was on point, consistent and really limited rebounds,” said coach Christopher Anderson. “He just was really solid.”

Gabriel appeared to be “in the zone,” as they say about an athlete who’s making all the plays that day. “It’s hard not to be,

Waiting Child

Sean,17, is a charismatic, outgoing, and active teen who describes himself as a talkative guy who isn’t shy. He loves Fortnite, watching bug videos on YouTube, and being outside. Sean also likes The Avengers and Star Wars. Sean enjoys being helpful and gets excited about doing tasks such as mowing the lawn and raking leaves. He’s always game for a cheesy roll up from Taco Bell, a Snickers Blizzard from Dairy Queen, or a trip to Applebee’s. Sean likes cats and dogs and would enjoy having a pet.

Only Minnesota families are being considered at this time.

Submitted by Foster Adopt Minnesota, a state organization whose vision is to have zero kids waiting for permanent loving families, and mission to find and strengthen Minnesota adoptive, foster care and kinship families. To learn more, go to www.fosteradoptmn.org

797317

White Bear Lake is skating in the state hockey tournament this week after conquering longtime nemesis Hill-Murray 3-0 in the Section 4AA finals.

Jack Stanius scored 36 seconds into the game and it remained a 1-0 meat-grinder for 50 minutes, with Leo Gabriel’s stellar goaltending keeping them in front, until the Bears got two empty netters in the final minute.

“It was a super exciting environment with the big crowd and the whole city there,” said Gabriel, who made 35 saves.

About the pressure he said, “Love it.

Pressure makes me play better, because I have to.”

The Bears (20-7-1, are seeded No. 4 at state and will open Thursday at 8 p.m. at Xcel Energy Center against Grand Rapids, whom they beat 2-0 in December.

Before the usual overflow crowd in the 3,400-seat Aldrich Arena that this ancient rivalry always draws, the Bears earned their first state trip since 2019, the last time they beat Hill-Murray in the section. The Pioneers are 14-6 against the Bears in sectionals over the last three decades.

“Making the state tournament means everything to us and the community of White Bear Lake,” said Nolan Roed, who notched his team-leading 33rd goal plus an assist. “To be able to beat Hill Murray and go to the ‘X’ is something that our

when you’re facing a team like that,” Gabriel said. “It really helps when the team plays good defense. They were keeping the shots from farther out. I got lucky, too.

A few hit the crossbar.”

About the defensive crew of Will Distad, Noah Driscoll, Tanner Olsen, Blake Eckerle, Zac Baay and Nate Celski, the coach assessed, “They were just steady all night keeping H-M to the outside, boxing out and having sticks in front. Strong in the corners. Just solid defense.”

Hill-Murray (17-9-1) was averaging 4.5 goals per game and had been blanked just once in 27 games, by No. 1 ranked Minnetonka. The Pioneers were ranked No. 7 with the Bears unranked. They tied 3-3 in December.

The Bears, who will make their 20th state appearance, dealt with some key injuries along the way, in particular with No. 2 forward Stanius and stellar defender Eckerle missing games.

“Our guys had to battle through some adversity, with the injuries throughout the season and at times we struggled,” Anderson said. “Through our struggles, they learned a lot, which is important.”

To reach the finals, the Bears had to get past Stillwater, with whom they split in conference play and shared the SEC title.

The Bears took a quick 3-0 lead and won 5-1. Gabriel made 28 saves. Scoring were Tyler Lalonde, Distad (short-handed), and Roed in the first period, and Eckerle (power play) and Roed (short-handed) in the third.

MARCH 7, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

15

Washington County Historical Society meeting to feature T.J. Maleskee Within two years, Minnesota had 40 Grange chapters and a state organization. By 1869, the Grange of Patrons of Husbandry was organized with 60 members. Soon, another Grange organization popped up in nearby Cottage Grove and still another in Point Douglas. There was one chapter located in Stillwater.

Maleskee, a past president of the Minnesota Grange, has organized two farmers markets that provided opportunities for women and BIPOC business owners. He is a proud member of the White Bear Lakes Lions Club and volunteers at the Academy for Sciences and Agriculture in Vadnais Heights, as

well as with Many Faces of White Bear Lake.

The meeting will be at the Stillwater Event Center, 1910 South Greeley St. The event is open to the public. There is a fee for both Washington County Historical Society members and nonmembers. The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a social hour, followed by dinner catered by Scheel’s Catering at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m. and Malsekee’s presentation will start shortly after the meeting.

Reservations are required in advance. Please call 651-439-2298 or email information@wchsmn.org.

CONTRIBUTED

T.J. Maleskee will be the guest speaker at the next Washington County Historical Society meeting at 7:30 p.m. March 21.

STOCK UP NOW

BAGUA BODYWORK MASSAGE

Closing Saturday, March 16th

Gail Anderson

NEW Luxury Massage Studio

for the season

March 9

Save on Frozen Original Apple Pies & Apple Cider

Balance your life ~ Begin with your body

Open Fri & Sat March 1-2, 8-9, 15-16 10 am - 4 pm

Specialty Services

Deep Tissue, Swedish, Pregnancy (Pre/Post Natal), Cupping, Muscle Scraping/Gua Sha, Abdominal, Hot Stone, Hand and Foot Reflexology

651-429-7202 PINE TREE ORCHARD

Inside Salons by JC -White Bear Lake 1350 Hwy 96 E, Suite 18, WBL

WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR CHILD

Staycation Beat the winter blues and leave the shoveling and maintenance to us!

Reading • Science • Math • Social studies • Health Creative arts • Music and movement

• Join us for two months or longer...your choice.

• Socialize and try new hobbies.

• Relax while we do the cooking and cleaning.

• Try a furnished or unfurnished senior living apartment before making a permanent move.

• Enjoy on-site therapy, a salon, spiritual care, wellness programs and more!

th and and get get your your 6 6th week week FREE FREE New full-time enrollment only. Not valid with New full-time enrollment only. Not valid with other offers. One time use only. Expires 3/31/24 other offers. One time use only. Expires 11/30/23

1845 Main St., Centerville 1845 Main St., Centerville

26427 Forest Blvd.,Wyoming 26427 Forest Blvd.,Wyoming

centerville@applecw.com centerville@applecw.com

wyoming@applecw.com wyoming@applecw.com

651-462-8772 651-462-8772

799051 787707

To schedule a tour call (651) 429-9654 or scan QR code.

We provide comprehensive dental care for the entire family!

H ugo Dental C are 5677 147th Street North www.hugodentalcare.com 651-426-1639

776884

ST ENROLL MARCH 3130TH ENROLL BYBY NOVEMBER

Visit orcall callfor fortuition tuition specials Visit applecw.com applecw.com or specials.

797563

March is National Nutrition Month!

WINTER

Apple Academy provides safe, fun, and worry-free child care.

We incorporate the nurturing of a home-like environment with the quality of a commercial child care center.

Quad & Citizen Area Fish Fry 015-115 AD_PressPub_Wtr Stayctn_3.32x5_v2.indd 1

10/24/23 2:37 PM

During Lent on Fridays

CENTERVILLE • HUGO • LEXINGTON • LINO LAKES • CIRCLE PINES

The Tavern Bar and Grill on Main

St. John’s Men’s Club of St. Genevieve

8001 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes

Hwy 61 & Cty Rd 14 • Hugo

Fridays 11 am - 10 pm during Lent $15 (Fish Fry Basket) 4 pieces of house-breaded Alaskan Cod, french fries or tater tots, coleslaw

Fridays, 4:30 pm - 7:30 pm during Lent Cost: Adults - $14.00 • Seniors (60 & over) $11.00 Children 6-12: $9.00 Children 5 and under: Free

Great Menu: Icelandic Cod, Baby Red Potatoes, French Fries, Cole Slaw, Macaroni-n-Cheese, Rolls, Pickles, Cookies, and Beverages

Blue Heron Grill 14725 Victor Hugo BLVD, Hugo

Fridays 11 am - 2 pm; 4 pm - till gone Every Friday during Lent and Year round Lunch $13 | Dinner $16 Re-orders of fish available

796995

651-762-8911 651-762-8911

pinetreeappleorchard.com

792905

796181

www.Baguabodywork.com

North of White Bear Lake Off E. Hwy 96 on Apple Orchard Rd.

799050

Maplewood Area Historical Society Executive Director T.J. Maleskee will be the featured speaker for the Washington County Historical Society Meeting on Thursday, March 21, at the Stillwater Event Center.

The first successful national farming organization was the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry, better known as the Grange, founded in 1867.

The Grange opposed the manufacturing and processing monopolies that fixed grain and livestock prices at a disadvantage to farmers. Its members also protested the high railroad freight rates farmers had to pay to get their products to market.

16 THE CITIZEN

www.readthecitizen.com

Save the Date!

39 th Annual Wedding Show Enjoy Local, Trusted Vendors, Door Prizes, Samplings and much more!

WHEN

SUNDAY, MARCH 24, 2024 11 am - 2 pm WHERE

COUNTRY INN White Bear Lake

RESERVE A BOOTH

Patty Steele marketing@presspubs.com 651-407-1213

Admission $5 per person Brides are FREE

SPONSORED BY THE WHITE BEAR COUNTRY INN

MARCH 7, 2024