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GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS: Lions keeping fingers crossed PAGE 10

Love is new mayor of Centerville

Empty at Easter: Faithful celebrate online

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM LEAD EDITOR

New Life Church Lutheran Church Following the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, New Life Church in Hugo suspended its in-person gatherings in the middle of March. Worship services and Bible study have moved online.

Church members can now watch the prerecorded videos online when their schedule allows.

“It is difficult for churches.

As faith communities by our definition, it is in person, we worship together, we serve together, we go out into the community, we are around people together,” said Pastor Tim Heinecke. “In shifting online, now there is much more of a shift toward how we can provide resources to equip our people to safely be of service to our neighbors at this time.”

New Life Church continues to try to make its online offerings interactive experiences. During worship videos, that day’s readings, songs and prayers are posted in one place for people to follow along and participate.

Bible study participants are invited to submit their questions and thoughts by phone or email.

Through “Share God’s Word,”

It only took outgoing Centerville mayor Jeff Paar an hour to resign and his successor, D. Love, all of five minutes to take over the mayoral duties at the March 25 City Council meeting.

Following his announcement March 11 that he planned to resign, Paar submitted his letter of resignation March 25. Rarely at a loss for words, Paar quipped that his original letter was 30 pages long, but he was able to trim it down to two pages.

“Back 18 years ago, I never thought I’d ever be where I am right now,” Paar said.

His career with city government started in 2002 when he became unhappy that the city had dropped seal coat and rock chips down on the streets instead of repairing them. He showed up pretty quickly at City Hall after that, where he informed City Clerk Teresa Bender that he was running for City Council and paid the $2 candidate fee. That year, he won a seat on council along with fellow newcomers, Tom Lee and Larry Sweeney.

Linda Broussard-Vickers and Mayor Mary Capra were already in office. He credits his cute young son in the wagon behind him during door-knocking excursions for his success at the polls.

“I never thought I’d run again and again and eventually become mayor,” he said.

Paar pooh-poohed any thoughts of trying to develop his legacy by developing downtown.

“If you think I spent 18 years on council to develop downtown, you missed a lot of stuff,” he told the citizens of Centerville.

Paar said that when he joined council 18 years ago, taxes were “through the roof,” there was no pavement management plan, the city owned a failing water tower, the roads were a mess and the parks were in bad shape.

Now, the city has a new water tower to last a lifetime, a pavement management plan, better parks and roads, and a lot more homes and commercial development to build up a tax base, he said. Paar, who was involved in the Water Works site transitions, said he and his fellow council members grew throughout the process. “It’s about listening and making better decisions,” he said.

SEE EMPTY AT EASTER, PAGE 15

SEE NEW MAYOR, PAGE 11

This year’s Easter will look very different. Even though people may not be able to attend worship services in person, host a big meal or attend brunch, area churches want people to know that they are still there for them, just in a different way.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, churches have had to adapt their programming to still serve their members during these unprecedented times.

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APRIL 9, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

Colorful sidewalks Staff at Keystone Place at LaValle Fields showed their residents some love by decorating the sidewalks around the complex. Staff at Oneka Elementary also received a warm welcome from area families when they returned to the building on Monday, April 6.

Trust our licensed and certified staff with your child’s educational beginnings You can depend on our loving and caring team m to provide your child with the environment he orr she needs to flourish. We’re committed to providing ng the very best in early childhood education.

Come in to speak to our team today.

Get a tour of our facility or learn more about our curriculum and programs.

We're excited to meet you!

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To All of our Valued Customers: Our Promise to you....

W are ddeeply We l committed i d to continuing c i i to serve our community during this time ti of uncertainty we’re all experiencing together.

There is nothing more important to us than ensuring the safety of our staff and customers, and this is top of mind in all of our decision making. Whether you are visiting one of our stores or shopping with us online, please know our extended family of employees takes a tremendous amount of pride in providing food to you and your family.

We hope we’ve continued to make your shopping experience comforting during these unsettling times.

To fight this interruption in our lives together, To remain open until we are forced to shut down.

To provide the highest levels of service and quality in order to meet your expectations.

Discontinue any and all delivery fees until further notice.

We are thankful for this relationship and appreciate your business and support.

Together, let’s keep practicing ticing safe social distancing and purchasing only what wee need to ensure our neighbors g also have access ccess to products.

We wish you, your family and loved ones, peace and a positive outcome.

thank you We th hank yo ou so veryy much for choosing ch oosing too shop w with us. us

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C

Food shelves kick it into high gear

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM LEAD EDITOR

As more and more people find themselves out of a job amid the COVID-19 pandemic, area food shelves are doing all they can to ensure that they can meet the increased demand. The Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf, Centennial Community Food Shelf and the White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf have all adapted their operations to minimize health risks to staff members, volunteers and clients.

Reconciliation: Sat. 5:00 – 6:00 pm

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

651-429-5337

intended to be as private as possible.”

If you need assistance, go to hugofoodshelf.org then click the red COVID-19 banner for information on how to receive services. You can also text the food shelf at 763-607-6060 or call 651-528-6224.

White Bear Area Emergency Food Shelf The White Bear Area Emergency Food Shelf first started planning for how it was going to respond to the COVID 19 pandemic at the beginning of March. By mid-March, the nonprofit had made the tough decision to suspend its most of its normal programming, suspend the use of volunteers, and transition to a drive-up model. In a normal week, the food shelf plans for about 250 people, Executive Director Perry Peterson said. Last week, the food shelf served 505 families and 300 students received Kidpacks.

“Our building is pretty small; it can get a little congested,” Peterson explained. “We no longer have volunteers. That’s a big deal. Our volunteers are the lifeblood of this organization.” The organization’s five staff members have had to step up and put in more hours than usual.

The food shelf has suspended its Bonus Saturday program, but still offers drive-up services from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. It is important to note that people can stop by at any time during that time frame; clients who show up early create a traffic jam in the small parking lot, Peterson said.

The best way to help the food shelf during this pandemic is to make a monetary donation, Peterson said. “For every $1 that is donated to the food shelf, we are able to buy $8 worth of food through the different systems that we have with the food bank,” he explained.

Monetary donations can be mailed to 1884 Whitaker Street, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 or made online at whitebearfoodshelf.org.

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

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Centennial Community Food Shelf volunteers Darlene Leiding and Jule Johnson sort through a shipment from Second Harvest Heartland. The food shelf has had to place bigger orders through the food bank rather than relying on donations from area grocery stores.

COMMUNITY BRIEF A il is April i N National ti l Distracted Driving Month Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from safe driving.

This includes talking on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle or fiddling with the entertainment or

i ti system. t navigation The Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths Enforcement effort will be focused on distracted driving from April 6 to April 30. Key prevention tip: Don’t hold your phone in your hand while driving, including while you are stopped at a traffic light.

CHURCH DIRECTORY Find the church that fits your needs 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.

All Are Invited!

The Depot Church Sunday 4 p.m.

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ONEKA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In order to protect our families and community, New Life Church Lutheran will be closed for in person worship. Please visit our website for Sermon audio recordings and for any new updates.

651-429-4705 www.hugotree.com Certified Arborist

The LORD is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

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6000 N. 148th St. East of HWY 61(next to Hugo Elementary) 651-429-1975 • www.newlifehugo.org To advertise here, call Jeanne at 651-407-1224 or email citizenad@presspubs.com

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Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf The Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf decided it needed to make changes to its operations March 15 and implemented those changes the very next day to ensure the safety of its clients, volunteers and staff.

Instead of the similar to a grocery store experience that clients are used to, the food shelf has switched to a model where clients receive a prepacked box of food for two weeks. There are different sizes of boxes based on the number of people in the household. Boxes are also available with personal care items, household cleaning supplies, kids’ food packs and infant items. Clients go onto the food shelf’s website, complete a form and select what day/time they would like to pick up their items.

Once the client arrives at the food shelf, they remain in their car and show an ID and proof of residency. A volunteer then will bring out their order to the car.

“We are seeing about a 19% increase in the amount we are distributing,” said President Chris DuFresne. Since mid March, the food shelf has distributed 8,646 pounds of food. DuFresne noted that the food shelf is seeing more clients who are out of a job, and more families.

Due to the risk of exposure, the food shelf is no longer accepting individual food donations but is in great need of monetary donations. Community members can also purchase prepacked bags of food from Festival Foods in Hugo or Cub Foods in White Bear Lake. Green Bucks, which can be purchased at Festival, are put onto gift cards for the food shelf to use to purchase fresh produce and meat.

“We serve anybody who resides in ZIP Code 55038. If anybody is in need of help, we are happy to provide assistance,” DuFresne said. “All client information is confidential, and the experience is

PAUL DOLS | PRESS UBLICATIONS

Food Systems Coordinator Sonja Tosteson, Community Resource Coordinator Trica Trowbridge and Executive Director Perry Peterson organize prepacked bags of food items at a drive up check in station outside the White Bear Area Emergency Food Shelf.

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Centennial Community Food Shelf The Centennial Community Food Shelf fi rst started seeing an impact from COVID 19 a little over three weeks ago when a lot of people began staying home.

To keep both volunteers and clients safe, the food shelf also shifted to a drive-up format. “That way, we can keep the (number of) volunteers inside the food shelf to a minimum,” said Bridget McPhillips, the food shelf’s executive director.

The food shelf still offers the same distribution times, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays.

On a typical day, the food shelf serves around 2535 families. Two weeks ago, those numbers were closer to 45.

As the pandemic escalates, the food shelf is receiving fewer donations from grocery stores.

Consequently, its orders to Second Harvest Heartland are increasing in size. “I have increased our order by 50%, so our funds are being depleted a little bit faster,” McPhillips said.

So far, the food shelf is still able to provide a minimum of about 32 lbs. of food per person.

Currently, the food shelf is most in need of shampoo, soap and personal hygiene products such as deodorant, Kleenex, paper towels and, of course, toilet paper.

Monetary donations can be mailed to Centennial Community Food Shelf, P.O. Box 8, Circle Pines, MN 55014, or made online with a credit/debit card at www.centennialfoodshelf.org/donations.

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THE CITIZEN

www.presspubs.com

APRIL 9, 2020

FAQ: The local news business

D

uring this spring subscription drive, some readers ask about the news business. Here are some frequently asked questions.

Q: How many newspapers are there?

A: In Minnesota, 289 reaching more than two million homes. In Wisconsin, 189 reaching 2.8 million homes.

These numbers go to home delivery print readers, which is half of the audience.

The other half reads online. Most newspapers also have popular social media pages with thousands of followers. Todays’ mix of print, digital and social reach gives most local newspapers more readers compared to previous high points.

Q: Are newspapers profitable?

A: Before the coronavirus outbreak, most newspapers were profitable. Industry margins declined after department stores Matt McMillan consolidated and digital news and ad delivery arrived. Publicly-traded newspaper margins are public and available to search.

Privately-owned newspapers, like the one you are reading today, don’t publicly report earnings. Some families invest more in news, have lower margins, but more local stories and readers. Coronavirus hit public and private newspapers equally. The number of readers spiked more than 30% at most local newspapers. Despite adding readers, some revenue has declined due to customers delaying buys until after the outbreak passes.

Above the Fold

Q: Why are some newspapers closing?

A: Like other industries, business fundamentals are the core of closures. Some have high debt and little money to operate, some have expensive pension plans, some have reduced volume and an inability to scale down to an affordable cost structure, etc.

A local newspaper reflects its local economy. Strong local economies can translate into strong local newspapers. Meeting readers’ and marketers’ needs is job No. 1. Especially during a crisis.

Q: What are news deserts?

A: News deserts, coined by Columbia Journalism Review or CJR, are places without a daily newspaper, and without a newspaper audited by a firm known as AAM. Creating a U.S. map of these places is noble by CJR. It cares about journalism. However, thousands of newspapers are not daily, or audited by AAM. For example, Polk County in Minnesota is listed as a desert. Polk County, according to Minnesota Newspaper Association, has six newspapers. While not daily or audited by AAM, these newspapers send reporters to local meetings, sporting events and festivals, some provide daily reporting online. Polk County is a desert on a national map. It is not a desert in real life. There are real news deserts, which is a problem, but not to the scale described.

Q: What do I get if I subscribe?: A: A healthy local news business relies on three things: 1. Readers who care about community and act by subscribing/investing in our reporting staff.

2. Advertisers who buy marketing campaigns to tap this quality audience of readers. (ask us for customer reviews – it works great. Readers respond. We have proof).

3. A team of dedicated employees who care about you, our readers and marketing customers.

We are the only media at most places we cover.

Residents here benefit from reporters working here.

True news deserts have higher taxes and less sense of community. It isn’t possible to do what we do without subscribers. Or, advertisers. Or, employees.

If you enjoy living, working or visiting here, consider subscribing this week during the spring subscription drive. It is an investment in local journalism.

Matt McMillan is CEO of Press Publications.

Distributed and mailed bi-weekly in: • Hugo • Centerville • Lino Lakes P.O. Box 393 Hugo, MN 55038 www.ReadTheCitizen.com

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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.

FAQs about the $2 trillion package

O

n March 27, Congress passed and the President signed into law a $2 trillion package that will send assistance to Minnesota families, workers and small businesses to address the economic fallout of the coronavirus pandemic. Here’s how it will help.

How much will Minnesotans receive in Stimulus payments? · Most households with incomes under $150,000 ($75,000 for singles) will receive $1,200 per adult and $500 per child from the Department Treasury.

Legislator of · Payments will phase out Lingo for those with Tina Smith incomes between $150,000 and $198,000 for couples (the phase out starts at $75,000 for singles).

How will Minnesotans get their payments? · The funds are expected to arrive automatically via mail or direct deposit in the coming weeks and will go to those who filed a tax return for tax years 2018 or 2019, according to the U.S. Treasury. · According to the U.S. Treasury, those who didn’t file a return will have to file a tax return to get the funds. · No income tax will be owed on these payments.

How does the new law help people who have been laid off due to the pandemic? · Workers receiving unemployment benefits will get the normal weekly benefit plus an additional $600 per week, until the end of July. · The length of time workers can receive unemployment benefits is increased by an additional 13 weeks. · Unemployment insurance has been expanded to cover parttime workers, self-employed and many other workers who aren’t eligible for traditional unemployment insurance.

How does this law help struggling small businesses? · The Stimulus package’s Paycheck Protection Program pays for up to two months of employee wages for small businesses that keep workers employed or rehire those who have been laid off. It also provides funding for rent, utilities, and similar expenses. These funds do not need to be paid back if employees are kept on the payroll or rehired. ·Under the stimulus package, the Small Business Administration (SBA) can provide small businesses with up to $10,000 in grants (usually on the day of application) that don’t need to be repaid, plus provide additional access to loans for businesses in need of funding. ·Small businesses with existing SBA loans will receive up to six months of forgiveness of their current loans, including principal, interest and fees.

This forgiveness is also

available for borrowers to take certain new SBA loans in the next six months. · Additional resources are available for Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers and Minority Business Development Agency Business Centers. · For businesses who don’t use the Paycheck Protection Program, the law provides employee retention tax credits to support a portion of an employer’s payroll expenses for certain workers.

Do I still have to pay back my student loans? ·Federally held student loan payments are suspended through September 30. No interest will accrue during this time. ·Borrowers on income-driven repayment plans, or those working towards Public Service Loan Forgiveness will still be able to count the suspension time towards progress under those programs.

What does the new law do to help childcare providers? · The new law provides $3.5 billion to support childcare in Minnesota and across the country. Funds will support frontline health care workers, emergency responders, and other essential personnel who need childcare services.

Tina Smith is a U.S. Senator for Minnesota

THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES • Limited to 350 words.

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

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

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

will not be published.

• Deadline is 5 p. m. , Wednesday letters per year and at least of the week prior to publication. four weeks must lapse between • Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will • To submit a letter, e-mail it to publication. Exceptions may be not be published. citizen@presspubs.com, fax it to made for rebuttal letters.

• Due to space limitations, letters • Submissions containing facts 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver not previously published in The it to Press Publications, 4779 that don’t address local issues Citizen must be accompanied by Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat letters by the same writer factual verification.

MN 55110. about the same subject matter • All letters are subject to editing.

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APRIL 9, 2020

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By His wounds we are healed

A

s we go through life, all of us carry wounds. Some of our wounds are physical and are obvious to others. Some of our wounds are emotional; most people may be unaware of them. While it can be difficult and uncomfortable to acknowledge the wounds we carry, they are a very real part of us.

When it seems like nobody knows what we are going through, we have the good news that Jesus knows. He knows every single wound we carry because He came and experienced it with us.

Isaiah 53:5 says, “But He was pierced for our mistakes, He was crushed for our sins; the punishment that brought us peace was Pastor upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.”

Ponderings This is the joy of Tim Heinecke Easter: you are not alone. Not only does Jesus know what we are going through, but He is more powerful than all our wounds combined. He died on the cross and rose from the dead to save and heal you.

If you are looking for a church home to celebrate with this Easter, we invite you to join our church family! Since we are unfortunately unable to be together in person for worship, you can participate with us in our Easter worship at newlifehugo.org.

Tim Heinecke is the pastor at New Life Church - Lutheran (LCMS) in Hugo.

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5

The most important thing to do to keep you healthy

s a Postural Restoration Certified® clinician, I have gained a significant amount of experience recognizing and treating movement patterns. The movement patterns common to all human beings stems from how we breathe.

I spend a lot of time with my clients educating and promoting proper breathing and movement to address a wide variety of conditions from head to toe and will share with you some of the basics. This is especially important during this time as COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system and can lead to pneumonia and a small percentage need mechanical ventilation.

Proper breathing is the number one thing that we all should be practicing. Why? Because dysfunctional breathing can have many negative physical effects but also lead to increased stress and anxiety which is something that for most of us is already skyrocketing.

The primary muscle of breathing is a dome shaped structure called the diaphragm. As you inhale, the dome descends creating space in the chest cavity. This allows the lungs to fi ll and expand the rib cage.

During this time, our heart rate, blood pressure and stress response all increase. As you exhale, the diaphragm should go back up into the dome position, helping expel air from the lungs and our heart rate, blood pressure, stress response all lower.

For many, the diaphragm does not

have proper function.

Why? Mostly because of our stressful lifestyles and increased sitting. The less our abdominals work our ribs into the front begin to Guest stick out and the Columnist diaphragm begins to lose its dome Tom Tardif shape. We begin to force breathing with our neck, back and chest muscles to help lift the rib cage rather than expand it. Over time this leads to hyperventilation causing us to hold stale air inside of our chest. We stay in a state of inhalation more often leading to a chronic increase in stress levels.

During respiratory infections secretions build up. Having proper diaphragm function is essential because it also helps us sneeze, cough and clear mucus. If this function is decreased, we limit our ability to fi ll and empty our lungs but also decrease the ability to have productive coughs and clear mucus increasing our chance of consolidation in the lungs.

This leads to an increased risk of developing pneumonia.

So how can you improve your breathing?

Well there are many options, but I strongly suggest using a balloon.

While this may at fi rst seem like a silly recommendation...just give it a try! Blowing up a balloon is tougher than it seems when done the right

way. Blowing into a balloon provides resistance to the abdominals which help to pull the rib cage down allowing the diaphragm to return to the dome shape. This process helps get more air out of your lungs and to bring new fresh air in on the next breath.

Balloons are cheap exercise equipment and there isn’t a shortage of balloons online. Plus, this can help relieve muscle tension especially in the neck and back. If you are allergic to latex or do not have the capacity to inflate the balloon, there are other options.

Try a kazoo...it does a wonderful job getting us to exhale longer, allowing us to vocalize our exhales, and provides vibration to move secretions.

I highly suggest doing this a few times throughout the day. The kids will love it and if you work with seniors. they need to do this.

Inhale: Through nose with tongue on roof of mouth Exhale: Into the balloon Pause: 3-4 seconds and place tongue on roof of mouth Repeat: x3 keeping balloon in mouth Dr. Tom Tardif is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy, Postural Restoration Certified®, certified strength coach, certified in integrative dry needling, and certified nutritionist. He is a resident of Lino Lakes and is the Founder of Resonance Performance Solutions.

He can be reached at 612-643-0019 or tom@Resonate2Perform.com.

COUNTY BRIEFS Washington County will contribute to conservation easements Washington County’s Land and Water Legacy Program will pay for conservation easements on land in Hugo and in Stillwater Township, after the county board approved the agreements March 24. For the project in Hugo, the county was approached by a landowner who was willing to place a conservation easement on a parcel of land called the Keystone Woods, which is listed as one of the county’s top 10 high-priority protection areas.

The project involves approximately 80 acres in Hugo and the Carnelian-Marine-St. Croix Watershed District.

The parcel is at 9822 152nd St. N. in Hugo, adjacent to Kelly Farm, and south of and connected to Barker Lake. The land has high-quality forest, as well as some threatened species, and is important for groundwater protection. This is the second parcel in Keystone Woods to be placed under permanent protection. The conservation easement will be co-held by the county and the Minnesota Land Trust. The county will commit $167,100 in program funds toward the acquisition of the conservation easement.

The Land and Water Legacy Program was approved

by county voters in 2006. Through the program, the county works with landowners and organizations to purchase land or interests in land to keep it in natural condition.

County board encourages access for 2020 Census Commissioners stated their support for engagement in the 2020 Census March 24, and encouraged owners and property managers of multiunit housing in the county to provide access for Census Bureau employees.

Census information is used to allocate federal and state funding to communities, and the data determines how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives. Census data is used for redistricting of state legislative seats, county board and city council seats, and other voting districts.

Approximately 17% of Washington County residents are renters. Renter households are more likely to contain historically undercounted individuals such as infants and toddlers, young adults, low-income residents and people of color. Federal law directs owners, proprietors and managers of apartment buildings and other multiunit housing structures to grant access to any

duly accredited representative of the Census Bureau.

The board’s support of the census coincides with the delivery of census information to residents of the county. The board also asks the owners and managers of multiunit housing facilities to allow access for census workers as required by federal law. A letter from the county board chair will be sent to property owners.

County board endorses presidential proclamation Commissioners endorsed the presidential proclamation of April 2020 as Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month March 24, and received the annual report from the county’s Citizen Review Panel.

Each year in April, the president of the United States issues a proclamation to announce National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect, and to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families. During April, and throughout the year, Washington County encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making the county a better place for children and families.

COVID-19 BRIEF

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

‘Heal their land’ People are saying we should look to history to learn what worked before.

We know the Spanish flu was spread like wildfire in gatherings, etc., so we limit gatherings. President Trump says we are a great nation. I looked at history and found profound wisdom in what President Abraham Lincoln and President George Washington said about us being a great nation.

In Lincoln’s Thanksgiving address, he said, "We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven; we have been preserved these many years in peace and prosperity; we have grown in numbers, wealth and power as no other nation has grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the

gracious hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us, and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own ... It has seemed to me fit and proper that God should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged ... by the whole of the American people.”

George Washington said, "It is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God ..." and to render to Him "our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country ..."

Lincoln had the boldness to begin his Thanksgiving address with, "It is the duty of nations ... to confess their sins

and transgressions in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord."

I add, in Scripture history it is written in 2 Chronicles 7:14: "If My people will humble themselves and pray and search for Me and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven, forgive their sins and heal their land."

Patricia Katherine Wittkop Hugo

First case confirmed in Hugo As of press deadline, the city of Hugo had its first confi rmed case of COVID-19. Mayor Tom Weidt said he personally knowns the person, who has been hospitalized. Weidt wrote on social media, “I want each and every one of you to keep this person in your prayers and I encourage you to follow the recommendations of the CDC and the Governor to help as many people as we can to come through this safely.”

Weidt also added that for now, the city parks will remain open for use. However, city staff have been instructed to design and install signs at city parks reiterating the importance of following the CDC's recommendations.

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THE CITIZEN

www.readthecitizen.com

APRIL 9, 2020

HUGO POLICE REPORTS The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents: • The driver of a white sedan was cited at 5:46 p.m. March 8 on northbound Elmcrest Avenue N. and 150th Street N. for failure to provide proof of insurance after he was pulled over for a suspended object dangling from the rearview mirror. The driver admitted to failure to have insurance on the vehicle.

• Two motorists were pulled over for inoperable headlights and given Lights On vouchers. The fi rst vehicle was stopped at 11:31 p.m. March 8 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N., and the second at 7:55 a.m. March 14 on 170th Street N. and Ingersoll Avenue N. • A Duluth man was arrested at 10:29 a.m. March 9 in Duluth for violating an order for protection after he had posted on the Facebook page of a resident in the 13000 block of Europa Way in violation of a restraining order.

• A Minnesota driver was cited at 12:28 p.m. March 14 on eastbound Egg Lake Road N. and Goodview Avenue N. for speeding 54 mph in a 35 mph zone by westbound deputies, who clocked the vehicle at 54 mph.

• A motorist was cited at 12:51 p.m. March 14 on westbound Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. for speeding 38 mph in a 30 mph zone.

East-facing deputies on stationary patrol clocked the vehicle at 38 mph.

• A driver was cited at 1:07 p.m. March 14 on westbound 170th Street N. and Ingersoll Avenue N. for speeding 76 mph in a 55 mph zone. Eastbound deputies clocked the vehicle at 76 mph.

• A citation was issued at 3:45 p.m. March 14 in the 5000 block of 149th Street N. for window tint violation.

• A citation was issued at 5:52 p.m. March 14 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for speeding.

• A resident near the intersection of 145th Street N. and Goodview Avenue • The owners of Kersten Auto in the N. at 9:43 p.m. March 14 reported that 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 11:05 a.m. March 10 reported catalytic a suspicious vehicle slowed down and opened its door while her children converters stolen from nine autos in were walking home. their lot.

• A landlord in the 5000 block of Frenchman Road at 11:59 a.m. March 10 reported 200 reflector lamps, valued at $181 each, stolen from a property he had leased to a couple running a hemp-growing business. The total value of the missing lamps is $36,2000.

• An independent contractor reported finding a license plate at 6:05 p.m. March 11 while she was cleaning a parking lot in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a National Crime Information Center check and discovered the plate had been reported as stolen.

• A resident in the 5000 block of French Avenue at 9:23 a.m. March 12 reported $1,100 stolen from her purse as it sat in an occupied, unlocked house for three days. There are no suspects, other than some of the juveniles residing in the residence.

• A resident in the 15000 block of Farnham Avenue N. at 12:56 p.m. March 13 reported receiving three phone messages concerning her bank information. The complainant was aware of the possible scam.

• A motorist was cited at 3:29 p.m. March 13 in the 12000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for speeding.

• Another motorist was cited at 6:18 p.m. March 13 on Forest Blvd. N. and 165th Street N. for speeding.

• A resident in the 7000 block of 125th Street N. at 9:45 a.m. March 14 reported two different vehicles using her horseshoe driveway as a turnaround – the first at 12:33 p.m.

March 6 and the second at 1:52 a.m.

March 12.

• Employees at the Speedway station in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 2:56 p.m. March 15 reported that someone shoplifted two cartons plus five packs of cigarettes from the store.

• A speeder was cited at 6:18 p.m. March 15 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. • A resident in the 16000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. at 2:02 p.m. March 16 reported that someone smashed all four corners of her 1979 Chevy Blazer with an unknown object sometime over the weekend.

hoping to trade it in before she had to purchase new tabs.

• The driver of a dark-colored sedan was cited at 9:08 p.m. March 17 on Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for driving after revocation after deputies on patrol were alerted by their automatic license plate reader (ALPR) as to the driver’s status.

• An injured male was arrested at 11:53 p.m. March 17 on Bald Eagle Blvd. W. and Elmcrest Avenue N. for suspicion of DWI after he injured himself in a single-vehicle crash.

• A Minnesota driver was cited at 10:42 a.m. March 18 on westbound Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. for speeding 44 mph in a 30 mph zone by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol. The driver admitted to going between 30-35 mph.

• Shoplifting in progress was reported at 9:29 p.m.

March 18 at the Kwik Trip in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. • An unidentified driver was arrested at 2:29 a.m. March 19 on 170th Street N. and Farnham Avenue N. for DUI and possession of drugs and paraphernalia in a motor vehicle after deputies conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. They became suspicious when the driver nervously acted as if they were under the influence of drugs.

A search turned up the contraband.

• A suspicious white pickup truck was reported at 9:34 a.m. March 19 in the 4000 block of 170th Street N. after its male driver pulled into the complainant’s driveway and got out and looked around before leaving.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Europa Trail Way N. at 12:19 p.m.

March 19 reported being harassed by someone who was transmitting their voice into her residence. The The vehicle, which was described as complainant asked for information in good shape before the incident, on technology that would allow was now extensively damaged. The complainant suspects her soon-to-be someone to transmit voices into her home. Deputies responded that they ex-husband of the deed. were unaware of any such technology.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 7:44 a.m.

March 17 on southbound Forest Blvd. N. at 147th Street N. for semaphore violation after deputies observed the vehicle enter the intersection on a yellow light that quickly turned red.

• An unidentified motorist was cited at 11:02 a.m.

March 17 in the 16000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for driving after revocation following a traffic stop for expired registration. A mobile data computer (MDC) check of the driver during the stop revealed the revoked status and two outstanding warrants.

• The driver of a black SUV was cited at 3:57 p.m.

March 17 on northbound Elmcrest Avenue N. and 150th Street N. for tabs that expired in December

• The driver of a black pickup truck was cited at 3:49 p.m. March 19 in the 6000 block of 137th Street N. for failure to stop at a stop sign after deputies observed him approach the intersection of Egg Lake Road N. He made a right turn and headed east without stopping at the stop sign.

• Fraud was reported at 1:29 p.m. March 20 in the 15000 block of Foster Drive N. • The driver of a black pickup truck was cited at 3:51 p.m. March 20 on Forest Blvd. N and 159th Street N. for driving after suspension after deputies on patrol were alerted by an ALPR hit to the vehicle. They later verified the registered owner as the suspended driver.

The driver told Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies that the vehicle was leased and that she was

Loretta Harding

CENTENNIAL LAKES POLICE REPORTS The Centennial Lakes Police reported the following incidents: • Officers were dispatched to a phone call report of a runaway juvenile in Circle Pines March 25.

• Police were dispatched to a report of a domestic situation in Circle Pines March 25. An adult male was subsequently sent to the hospital via ambulance.

• Officer responded to the city of Lexington March 26 on report of a possible domestic assault. Upon arrival, officers determined that there had been a mutual physical confrontation. Both parties were separated and did not want to pursue charges.

• Police responded to the 9000 block of Lexington Avenue in Lexington March 26 on a possible motor vehicle

theft. Officers spoke with a man who said his 2008 Acura MDX had been taken without permission.

Officers determined the vehicle had been taken by an ex-girlfriend.

Officers left the woman a voicemail instructing her to return the vehicle that day.

• Police responded to the 200 block of Little John Drive in Circle Pines March 27 for a stuck muskrat. The muskrat was saved.

• A party in the 30 block of Village Parkway in Circle Pines March 28 was verbally warned for being too loud.

• Officers received a report of a dog bite within the 0 block of Park Drive E in Circle Pines March 28.

• Police responded to a property damage accident in the 9000 block of Lexington Avenue in

Lexington March 29. A suspect was subsequently arrested for DWI. • Officers mediated a neighbor dispute in the 7100 block of Clear Ridge in Centerville March 31.

• Police responded to a call for a domestic escort in the 7300 block of Peltier Circle March 18.

• A verbal domestic situation was reported in the 1 block of Hillcrest Lane March 18.

• Officers responded to a male reporting severe withdrawals and in need of medical care in the 20 block of Oak Ridge Trail March 18.

The man was transported to the hospital.

• Officers responded to a welfare check on Park Drive March 18 and determined there was no problem.

• A property damage accident occurred at Lake Drive and

Lexington Avenue March 19. The parties had already exchanged information when officers arrived.

• Officers and an ambulance were dispatched on a report of a medical incident in the 8900 block of Arona Avenue March 19.

• A verbal domestic incident was reported in the 0 block of Park Drive West March 19.

• Police responded to the 200 block of Heritage Lane for a domestic escort March 19.

• Officers responded to a domestic assault on Park Drive West on March 20.

• Officers responded to a domestic situation in the 8900 block of DuWayne Avenue March 20.

• A civil dispute was reported and information collected in the 100 block of South Drive March 20.

APRIL 9, 2020

THE CITIZEN

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‘We’re doing all we can to give them a fighting chance’ Ventilator prototype with local connections could help save lives of COVID-19 patients

BY PAUL DOLS PHOTOJOURNALIST/WEBSITE EDITOR

What started as a brainstorming conversation between lifelong friends could possibly result in a lifesaving medical device that is used around the world.

In mid-March, Jim McGurran, the director of product development at Vadnais Heights-based MGC Diagnostics, received a call from his friend Dr. Steve Richardson, a cardiac anesthesiologist at the University of Minnesota.

Richardson had been thinking about possible ways to help with the life-or-death situation of not having available ventilators as the number of COVID-19 patients requiring treatment increases.

According to McGurran, a low-resource option using hand-operated “Ambu” bags was decided upon. Ambu bags are a readily available tool used by paramedics to resuscitate patients manually. Richardson asked McGurran if he could make a prototype. After consulting with his engineers, he was able to respond within a day with a basic prototype that was successfully tested.

The first prototype device, constructed using available parts, is essentially an electric motor that turns a crank that pushes a piston up and down, which pushes on the Ambu bag. A second prototype was designed and was also successfully tested, leading to the conclusion that more partners were needed to hit the scale required.

McGurran said that MGC is well-connected with other medical device companies in the area, including the Earl E. Bakken Medical Devices Center, to help take the project from crude prototype to working design.

RALLY STUDIOS | SUBMITTED

Dr. Steve Richardson

The ventilator prototype using an “Ambu” bag is tested in an operating room at the University of Minnesota.

Jim McGurran

McGurran said that the devices are to be used in a clinical hospital setting, either traditional or emergency.

He noted that the design using Ambu-style bags is something that can be used around the world. “It’s not a profit-seeking opportunity. It’s a compassionate project,” he said. The designs will also be shared online at no charge.

McGurran provided a link to a video documenting the project where Richardson expresses the urgency of the situation. “This allows those patients who would otherwise not have an opportunity to survive, to survive.

It gives people a chance,” he said.

The next major hurdle for the project is an emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “The first formal FDA application

will be in a matter of days, not weeks,” McGurran said.

In addition to the fact that MGC Diagnostics is based in Vadnais Heights, McGurran also has roots in the area: he grew up in Vadnais Heights near Stockdale Road and Parkwood Lane. His friendship with Richardson dates back to kindergarten.

“It’s a fortuitous set of events; we’re doing what we can,” McGurran said about the collaboration. Expressing “cautious optimism” and admiration for members of the medical community on the front lines of this crisis, he said, “We’re doing all that we can to give them a fighting chance.”

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238 or photos@presspubs.com.

LINO LAKES POLICE REPORTS

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We are all doing our best and adjusting to a different way of doing business. For Connexus Energy, this includes making a few changes to our upcoming Annual Meeting and director elections.

VOTE in Board Elections Board elections are going ahead. We encourage our members to vote online or by mail by April 16. Please refer to the voting packets you receive in the mail. Even if you plan to vote online, you will still need a passcode that’s included in your packet. Please note, there will be no in-person voting at the annual meeting.

Annual Meeting For the first time in our 83-year history, we are conducting the Annual Meeting with the director election as the single item of business. Due to COVID-19, there will be no in-person voting or member attendance at the April 16 Annual Meeting. Results of the director election will be shared with members following the meeting.

The cooperative’s 2019 Annual Business Review and 2019 Community Report will be available online at connexusenergy.com. Printed copies of the reports will be mailed with May and June billing statements.

Video reports of the CEO and CFO annual reports will be available online.

Thank you for your continued support.

Stay healthy and safe.

IN AT

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d d • Officers responded to a personal injury accident in the 1400 block of I-35W March 28 involving a single vehicle rollover.

Officers arrived and found the driver had minor injuries. The driver was seen by a paramedic; the State Patrol arrived on scene and handled the incident.

• An officer was dispatched to a local

N G • D OI

Dr. Christopher Phillips

iinvestigation. ti ti • A number of mail thefts were reported across the city.

Thankfully, most of the mail was returned to residents by officers.

• An officer was dispatched to a call from the 6400 block of Lakota Trail March 28 regarding questions about goose control.

The caller was referred to the Department of Natural Resources.

TI

di d it was a discovered robbery. Suspects were captured on surveillance video and the investigation is ongoing.

• A male from the 500 block of Aqua Circle called in to report a theft from his roommate’s vehicle in the driveway overnight March 26. The vehicle was unlocked in the driveway. Investigation is ongoing.

• An officer was called to a business in the 7500 block of Lake Drive March 28 on the report of a possibly intoxicated male.

The officer arrested the male for gross misdemeanor DUI. He was transported to jail, where he will be held pending charges.

• Officers responded to a report of a theft in progress at a business in the 2200 block of Cedar Street March 28.

An officer learned from the reporting party that it was believed a male was going to steal the caller’s catalytic converter but was stopped prior to the theft occurring. The involved male was located and identified.

The case is under

LL

The Lino Th Li Lakes L k Police P li Department reported the following incidents: • An officer conducted a routine traffic stop in the 7800 block of Lake Drive March 24.

After investigating, the officer located suspected drugs.

Criminal charges are pending.

• An officer stopped a vehicle in the 1400 block of Ash Street March 24 because the owner of the vehicle had a revoked license and the driver wasn’t wearing a seat belt.

The adult male driver was subsequently arrested for DWI and booked into the Anoka County Jail.

• Officers responded to a call of a physical domestic situation in the city of Lino Lakes March 24. After investigation, an adult male was arrested for domestic assault.

• Officers took many suspicious activity reports from all over the city.

• Officers responded to a water flow alarm at an apartment building in the 700 block of Town Center Parkway March 25 to find the sprinklers had been turned on. A juvenile male admitted to setting off the sprinklers.

The incident is under investigation.

• Police responded to a domestic situation in the city of Lino Lakes.

Officers subsequently arrested an adult male for false imprisonment, interfering with a 911 call and domestic assault. The male was booked into jail.

• Officers responded to a theft from a business in the 700 block of Apollo Drive March 26. The officer

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presspubs.com

Health issues that occur more often as we age can also make seniors more likely to fall a few of those are: • Muscle weakness • Heart disease • Parkinson’s disease • Alzheimer’s disease • Low blood pressure • Poor vision Evaluating risk factors and taking preventative measures in a way that considers the unique lifestyle, needs and health of a senior can help.

Minimize trip hazards, evaluate footwear, know the effects of medication and side effects. Nutrition and exercise will strengthen the leg and feet muscles. The biggest one is focus on Mental Health.

Caring for those you Love During the COVID -19 Crisis To our Families, Oak Meadows thanks you very much for your patience during the COVID-19 crisis, as the community remains closed til further notice to families and guests. Our mission to provide a dignified living environment that embodies God’s love for all continues. We want you to know that our staff is dedicated to the health and safety of your loved one and we pray that it will not be long before we are all reunited again.

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very year, 3 million seniors are treated in the emergency room for fall injuries. And, falling once doubles someone’s chances of falling again. Preventing accidents in the home, including falls, is one of the most important planning strategies for helping seniors stay independent. Fractures and other injuries can cause long term mobility issues and have lasting physical effects. Once an injury occurs, it can affect someone’s ability to live the way they want and enjoy the same lifestyle and activities.

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HOME OF THE SUREPLAN TM MEDICARE SYSTEM MEDICARE QUESTIONS?

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win City Underwriters is an independent insurance agency that represents the leading Medicare insurance companies. Their experienced and licensed agents are knowledgeable about the different types of Medicare Health plans available to you. Twin City Underwriters’ SurePlan Medicare SystemTM offers you peace of mind when making Medicare decisions.

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igning up for Medicare healthcare coverage is surprisingly easy. You can even register for Medicare online at SocialSecurity.gov or by visiting your local Social Security office. Signing up for Medicare may be easy, but figuring out the best healthcare coverage for YOU is challenging. The range of healthcare options is daunting — which explains why the most common mistake seniors make when arranging for their Medicare coverage is not taking a serious look at all their options.

“Failure to explore the full spectrum of Medicare options happens more often than you would imagine,” explained Choua Vang, Sales Manager at Twin City Underwriters, Inc. “Everybody is different,” emphasized Sara Rosas, a licensed agent and the Marketing Manager at Twin City Underwriters. “You don’t want a one-size-fits-all Medicare healthcare plan. You need a plan that takes into consideration your health, prescriptions, budget, travel plans, lifestyle, and many other factors.”

Fortunately, numerous Medicare plans and ‘Medigap’ supplemental plans are available to customize your coverage to fit your specific needs. You will find a plethora of helpful information on the official Medicare website (Medicare.gov). Comparing these plans, however, is a formidable task. How do you determine

ou? which healthcare plans are best for you? seful Perhaps the most informed and useful ance resource is to consult with an insurance carebroker that specializes in Medicaren City related coverage. In Minnesota, Twin eader Underwriters is widely considered a leader ns of in this field. In the past 52 years, tens thousands of Minnesotans have put their tered faith in this Roseville-headquartered locally-owned company (which provides this service for free!). Twin City Underwriters differentiates itself with these client-focused features: The Three/Six/Five Partnership that clients have with Twin City Underwriters means a dedicated team is available 365 days a year (not just during open enrollment). Perhaps you have concerns about the insurance coverage for an upcoming medical procedure. Instead of calling the customer service number on your insurance card, you can contact a team member at Twin City Underwriters.

“Our clients don’t necessarily have to call customer service at the insurance company,” said Vang. “We have developed contacts at these companies. We are here to help our clients anytime and will promptly look into their concerns. We are the buffer between the client and the company.”

Educating Clients/Free Workshops. Twin City Underwriters places a high priority on educating its clients. People make more informed decisions when they have a better understanding of what is - and is not covered. This is why Twin City Underwriters offers free informative Medicare Workshops across Minnesota throughout the year. Seniors are encouraged to bring their questions and concerns. (Upcoming workshops are listed on the twincityunderwriters.com website.)

Another option is making an appointment for a free one-on-one/no-obligation meeting with a Minnesota Medicare-coverage agent at Twin City Underwriters. The meeting can be on the phone or in-

person at any of the three company locations: Roseville, Bloomington, Inver Grove Heights.

Twin City Underwriters developed its patented “SurePlan™ Medicare System” to ensure that each client will have a Medicare Health Plan unique to them. The three-pronged system features the “Medicare Suitability Tool” (an in depth exploration of the client’s personal lifestyle needs), a Guaranteed Annual Review (because you change and policies change) and the Three/Six/Five Partnership (offering year-round personal support). The “SurePlan™ Medicare System” provides peace of mind and sets a new standard of excellence in the industry, all at no charge.

Rock Solid Reputation. Integrity and Honesty -these are essential virtues for insurance brokers entrusted with providing the best Medicarerelated healthcare plans for their clients. Twin City Underwriters boasts more than five decades of experience, plus thousands upon thousands of happy customers. In fact, the brokerage does minimal advertising because the bulk of its new customers hear about them via word-of-mouth.

“Most of our clients are referrals,” said Vang. “And that says a lot about the quality of our work. The entire team here is dedicated to making sure the money you have saved over a lifetime provides you with the best possible healthcare coverage for your needs. I would like to believe we are among the best.”

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THE CITIZEN

APRIL 9, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

Lions remain optimistic about Good Neighbor Days

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM LEAD EDITOR

HUGO — The Hugo Lions remain optimistic that the 44th annual Good Neighbor Days celebration will go on as planned despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are trying to keep planning, business as usual; the show must go on until we can’t, because we have already got financial obligations,” said Lion Dan Balthazor. “We will keep planning. We hope it goes on, it is a great event that gets better every year.”

The three-day event takes about six months to plan. As early as February, the Lions started having discussions about the fact that the event might not be able to happen due to COVID-19, or that if it does, changes will have to be made.

This year’s event is scheduled for June 4-7; the theme is “It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.”

If things go on as planned, the festival will feature the

usual highlights, including a parade, carnival, beer garden, live bands and fireworks courtesy of Grundhofer’s Old Fashion Meats. Returning for the second year in an even bigger fashion would be the Backyard Ribfest, featuring a Garage Logic podcast as well as the vendor craft fair.

The Lions are waiting until May 1 to decide if the event will proceed as planned, need to be modified or canceled.

Balthazor said the Lions are considering the option of offering a smaller event in the fall after school is back in session.

If the event can take place in June, the Lions are looking into all the changes they will need to make in order to keep patrons safe, such as the addition of more hand sanitizing/washing stations.

The Lions are also trying to come up with a contingency plan so if the festival does not happen, how the organization can continue to raise money to support the community.

“The club has stayed

relatively strong in terms of numbers, but this is our biggest event of the year.

All the money that we raise goes back to the community,” Balthazor explained. “This year, more than any since the tornado in 2008, our community is going to need us more than ever. We are already getting a lot of inquiries from people who need help, and it is going to be a real challenge to balance that out if we don’t have the influx of money coming in.”

The Lions continue to be committed to the recommendations made

by Gov. Tim Walz and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“We are going to ride it out and keep our fingers crossed that the health of the nation and the state gets better and we can kind of get back to normal,” Balthazor said.

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

FILE PHOTO | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Technicolor Fun Run from last year’s Hugo Good Neighbor Days.

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APRIL 9, 2020

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Editor’s note: Please see city websites for information about how to watch/participate in meetings virtually.

CENTERVILLE CITY CALENDAR April 15: EDA meeting at 6:30 p.m. available via Zoom April 22: City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Work session at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom

HUGO CITY CALENDAR April 15: Parks Commission meeting at 7 p.m.

April 20: City Council meeting at 7 p.m.

April 21: EDA meeting at 5:30 p.m.

LINO LAKES CITY CALENDAR April 13: City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.

April 18: Recycling Saturday cancelled

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS The Centerville City Council took the following action at its March 25 meeting: • Approved the proposal from Stantec for surveying and inspection services for the downtown street and utility improvements. The city will pay $254,300 with monies from the street fund. • Approved the revised site plan from Centerville Storage for the proposed mini-storage building on 20th Avenue. The Planning Commission reviewed the revised site plan and recommended approval.

The site was redesigned after the developer was unable to reach an agreement to vacate the easement with the adjacent property owner, as was fi rst expected. The revised design is less intense, contains fewer overall units, has less impervious surface and involves removing fewer trees. • Approved the license for municipalities to have Music in the Park performances by members of the Society of European Stage Authors and Composers, LLC (SESAC). SESAC is one of three major license holders for songwriters. The Music in the Park program needs to obtain a license through SESAC and others to perform music by artists they represent. The license costs $460 annually and will be paid with funds from parks and recreation programs. • Approved a letter from Republic Services Waste Disposal and Trash Removal advising that large item pickup and yard waste disposal operations have been suspended until further notice due to the large buildup of trash and driver shortages from the COVID-19 pandemic. • Postponed the annual Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) public input meeting due to the declared state of emergency and recommendations not to gather in groups.

The public input meeting is required by the city’s permit to discharge stormwater into state waters.

The deadline to hold this meeting is before the end of the year. City staff will reschedule the meeting.

Loretta Harding

CITY OF HUGO MEETINGS OF THE CITY OF HUGO Until further notice, meetings of the Hugo City Council, commissions, and boards will be held remotely, pursuant to MN Statute Sec. 13D.021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes the Local Board of Appeal and EqualizaWLRQ PHHWLQJ VFKHGXOHG IRU $SULO 7R ÀQG RXW KRZ WR SDUWLFLSDWH LQ WKH meetings, contact City Clerk Michele Lindau at 651-762-6315 or mlindau@ ci.hugo.mn.us or go to www.ci.hugo.mn.us/participate.

Published one time in The Citizen on April 9, 2020.

THE CITIZEN

11

NEW MAYOR: Centerville sees changing of the guard FROM PAGE 1

“I absolutely loved representing the city as mayor and council member and hope I represented the city well — even if you didn’t vote for me.�

After council adopted a resolution accepting Paar’s resignation, it unanimously appointed D. Love, the city’s vice-mayor, to replace him. Love vacated his council seat and will serve the remainder of Paar’s term, which expires in January 2021.

Paar thanked the council for appointing Love and described him as having been a calming presence on council. “I would like to see D. in a role like that for an extended period of time,� Councilman Russ Koski said.

Love was appointed to an open seat on the City Council 11 years ago when he was chair of the Planning and Zoning Commission. “I interviewed, put a resume in and was selected following a tough process,� he said. “But it opened up an opportunity. I had run

previously, but the appointment opportunity got me here, where I am now.�

Shortly after taking the Oath of Office, Love thanked council members for their support and got to work running the rest of the meeting.

After passing a resolution declaring a council vacancy as required by state statute, council set about determining the process to use to appoint a new council member to serve until the next election. Love’s term expires in January 2023.

City Administrator/Engineer Mark Statz urged the council to fill Love’s seat immediately so action on important items can be taken by a full council. Two of the items requiring attention at an upcoming meeting are the re-branding of the city’s logo and renovation of City Hall.

The city has already received one application letter from an interested party and will continue to solicit applications for Love’s position until April 2. Centerville citizens over the age of 21 with legal status (U.S. citizen and no felonies)

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D. Love, who has had a role in city government since 2002, is the new mayor of Centerville. Previous mayor Jeff Paar officially resigned March 25.

are eligible. The council hoped to review applications and reach a decision at the April 8 meeting (after press deadline).

If the city receives more than three applications, a personnel committee will select three candidates for council review.

When City Attorney Kurt Glaser noted that the new mayor needed to be on the personnel committee, council members remembered that Love was already an alternate member of that body.

New mayor has ‘calming’ presence

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

CENTERVILLE — Considering that Centerville’s new mayor has yet to achieve celebrity status (a status he wouldn’t mind putting off), an introduction to Mayor D. Love may be in order.

So, who is D. Love, anyway?

He’s the new mayor of Centerville.

Following former mayor Jeff Paar’s resignation in the middle of his second mayoral term due to family issues, the council unanimously appointed Love to replace him.

As vice-mayor, an office generally conferred on a council member due to seniority, Love was next in line to become mayor. Even though the order of succession worked in favor of his appointment, Love has long been held in high regard by fellow council members. “I think D. would make a very good mayor, and I would like to see D. in a role like that for an extended period of time,� Councilman Russ Koski said before the council voted to appoint Love.

Councilman Matt Montain noted that Love had already gotten his feet wet by serving as acting mayor on several occasions.

Oh, and by the way, Love is the first black mayor in Anoka County.

Paar described Love as a calming presence on council.

Love, a Winona State grad with a paralegal degree, first came to Centerville 19 years ago with his wife, Susan, and their three children, Olivia, Payton and D. J. A Chicago native, Love moved to the Twin Cities right after college to work for State Farm Insurance. He is still with State Farm after 28 years.

The Love family chose Centerville because they were seeking a nice neighborhood in which to live and enjoy the benefit of good schools. The family also wanted to live in a place with a small-town feel that still had amenities and was close to the Twin Cities. “Centerville seemed to be perfect,� Love said. “We’ve been in Centerville for 19 years and have no regrets whatsoever about being here.�

Because Love had developed a passion for American history, law and government, he saw an opportunity to become involved in Centerville government and fulfill those interests. Around 16 years ago, Love submitted his application to be on the Planning and Zoning Commission and was appointed by council. “In five years, I went from the new guy to the chair of the P&Z,� he said.

Then, on Oct. 21, 2009, Love was “promoted� by appointment to the council seat vacated by Tom Lee. Now, after 11 years as a councilman, Love has once again been “promoted� — this time to the office of mayor.

As a member of City Council, Love appreciates the opportunity to use his position in office to serve as the

SUBMITTED

D. Love took the Oath of Office last month to become mayor.

voice of people in the city who can’t always speak for themselves. It isn’t only the well-spoken people who show up at City Hall who deserve to be heard, he noted.

The silent majority, many of whom are not fond of the spotlight but care deeply about what goes on in the city, also deserve to be represented. “I value the opportunity to represent them.�

Love said that since he joined council in 2009, the city has been able to provide outstanding public safety to the community by virtue of working closely with neighboring communities.

During Love’s tenure on council, Centerville has grown in ways that aren’t immediately obvious and that don’t compromise the small-town atmosphere of the city, he said. The council has also collaborated with Anoka County to build a beautiful road like Centerville Road, he added.

The city’s relationship with the Centennial School District is also strong, Love said. One of Love’s first tasks as mayor was to reach out to Superintendent Brian Dietz and ask how the city could help with managing the COVID-19 emergency. The district quickly set up meals for students in need. “I’m proud of the district for thinking ahead,� Love said.

Love is well aware that it’s not all about a mayor presiding over a city and making decisions on his own. “I’m one of five council members,� he said. “We’re strong together.�

Formalizing the Oath of Office with what was likely Centerville’s first virtual handshake by a new mayor, Love told the social-distancing council members that he looked forward to working with each one of them. “We’ll make good decisions moving forward; we always have.�

THE CITIZEN

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APRIL 9, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

Teachers taking on big assignment: Connecting with kids from home

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

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“My heart aches,” Wendy Suoja laments, “not seeing my students.”

A White Bear Lake faculty member since 1998, Suoja teaches choir, AP and intro music theory, and directs the fall musical at South Campus. But this spring she’s staying home and so are her students.

“Our choir family love and support each other every day in the classroom and we miss each other a lot right now.

Making music, live, singing together in the same room; that is unique and can’t be replicated over wifi.”

Allison Theissen, fourth grade at Birch Lake Elementary, muses that teaching “truly defines who I am” rather than being just a job.

“I have a huge hole in my heart not being able to be with my students for such an extended and indefinite amount of time. I absolutely love all of the sweet messages and videos that the kids send my way and it keeps me going. I can’t wait to see them all again when our schools reopen.”

Press Publications reached out to three teachers last week about dealing with the closing of schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the transformation to remote teaching.

“Every teacher, I bet, is going through their list of students, thinking about each and every one of them, wondering if they’re safe, if they ate, if they have a safe place to sleep, if they have the materials they will need,” said Odelis Anderson, choir teacher at Sunrise Park and Central Middle School. “ I especially worry for my students’ mental health. Middle school students are in a vulnerable position, as they behave so differently than elementary and high school students.”

Theissen said Learning Boards will be shared with all elementary students. These learning boards will direct their distance learning. Not every school or classroom will look exactly the same. “Teachers are working hard to prepare virtual lessons and to distribute necessary supplies for learning from home.”

Suoja said, “Trying to come up with lesson plans for choir has been challenging. Choir is a live, human connective experience. There is no online equivalent. My colleague at North Campus and I have collaborated on most of our lesson planning.”

The duo landed on a weekly schedule of music theory (Monday), singing rehearsal time (Tuesday/Thursday), music listening logs (Wednesday) and musician interviews (Friday). They are working on a virtual choir, new to director and students alike. They “sang

together” on a Google Meet session, with Suoja at the piano and students singing with mics muted. “This was strange and new for them. But for now, it is the way we can still learn our music together.”

Cancellations included a choir trip to Duluth, a performance at St. Andrews, Mariners show, a large group contest and a special performance with Luther College. She said all are great memories. “We had to have little funerals in our hearts,” she said, “for every one of these cancellations.”

Anderson said she was inundated with hundreds of emails and conversations from the students since before spring break and had followed the COVID-19 situation closely since before that. “I knew it was coming, but I was not expecting to go on spring break and not come back.”

Planning remote classrooms on the fly has been intensive.

“We spent one week creating the plan and what it would look like,” Anderson said. “We had multiple daily meetings (online) collaborating with colleagues and asking a lot of questions. This is a tremendous group work. Everyone in the district is working together to make sure we can deliver something that will be beneficial for our families. Teachers will be posting videos, documents, pictures on Google Classroom for the students to interact. We will have office hours for the students to contact us. They can reach us by email, text, Google Hangouts, voicemail.”

Theissen said the faculty’s days have been filled with virtual meetings with staff and teammates trying to formulate distance learning quickly.

“First and foremost we are in constant communication with families, via phone and online, to make sure they have what they need — especially food, emotional support and a means of communication, to help them have a feeling of connectedness,” Theissen said.

She added, “I worry about the effects of social isolation. Our kids, and most adults, have a strong need for social connection. Staying connected with our students and families is going to be a very important role that we play as educators.”

Home life will be very busy for these educators.

In Theissen’s home are two teachers and three students.

“Our days are a balance between our school work (online meetings and making plans for distance learning), doing puzzles, reading, getting outside, doing work around the house, cooking and baking, and just trying to appreciate this extra time together, amidst everything currently happening in our world.”

Suoja has a son (senior), daughter (junior), her independent business owner husband, and her mom and

SUBMITTED

White Bear student Dale Thompson decorates a white board in a classroom, or his office.

dad, both 80, at home. “My days are balanced between quality family time, making sure everyone is safe, healthy and provided for, and cranking out potential lesson plan ideas.”

She has found the need to hit the brakes. “My usual pace is 110% at 110 miles per hour, 24/7. I have drastically slowed down my pace. I am able to exercise more, cook more, chat and play family games more. Breathe more. Rest more. Be in the moment more. It has been nice.”

Anderson is taking care of four kids under age seven, including a three-month-old baby, while home-schooling and working on creating new lessons for distance learning.

About her students, Anderson said, “I think they are struggling. They have been contacting us. They are eager to start. They ask for assignments. It all comes from the change in their normal. They worry they won’t see their friends again. Middle school students live for social interactions and as much as they live on their electronics nowadays, it will never replace the human touch or a face– to–face conversation. That’s why they’re so loud and all over the place on the hallways.”

Theissen shared one note from a student: Dear Mrs.Theissen and Ms. Parzyk, I miss being at school. I miss seeing my teachers and friends. I can’t wait for school to start up again I get so bored. Well we are out of school on spring break I couldn’t wait for school to start again. I hoped school was started.

I wish we were in school learning together it is the best learning environment. Hoping we can be at school soon.

Sincerely, Evie P.S. miss you

Social distancing doesn’t keep school board away

BY BROOKE WOHLRABE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The White Bear Lake School Board meeting took place on March 23 via Google Hangouts so board members could maintain social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic. Superintendent Wayne Kazmierczak was in the community room at the district center during the meeting.

The purpose of the meeting was to approve a resolution to hold meetings via teleconference or by other electronic means. An update was also provided on school closures and distance learning plan development.

At the time of the meeting, it was not yet determined whether schools would go back into session or proceed with distance learning. However, Gov. Tim Walz announced March 25 that all schools in Minnesota would engage in distance learning starting March 30 through at least May 4.

Board members provided an update on the areas they’ve been working on to prepare for distance learning.

Marissa Vette, director of communications and community relations, said, “I just can’t even begin to tell you how fortunate we are to have such great people in this district, not only leading at the district level but to teachers that just have got their most creative ideas forward to create the best conditions for students and families.”

She said that the Minnesota Department of Education provided guidance that aligned well with the district’s strategic plan and its equity decision-making protocol, which was an affirming first step.

“We were all aligned together in making sure that we were thinking about respect and dignity of everyone involved,” Vette said.

She also said staff members have been working with elementary principals and looked at what a teacher’s day looks like in terms of their availability and what attendance should look like. They are also mindful of what the teaching experience will look like.

On the elementary side, the concept is that each teacher team is working with technology to create a learning board relevant to their students’ grade level.

Vette said they don’t want to be tempted by the many free applications; rather, staff would prefer to try to see what it looks like from a family’s perspective and how much students will be asked to log into different sites. On the elementary side, staff members have predominantly used Seesaw and Google to keep instruction consistent for families. They are also looking at how to incorporate printed materials.

“All in all, we really feel like we have a good framework that was laid out that gives teachers the ability to run with it,” Vette said.

White Bear Lake Area High School Principal Alison Gillespie said, “Secondary has also talked about lesson structure and how students can check in with teachers.

“We’ve had a lot of amazing conversations around equity and how we make sure that all of our students are feeling success and that we don’t have students falling through the cracks,” she noted.

Lisa Ouren, director of student support services, spoke of the district’s recent partnership with St. Catherine’s University. She shared that they would be opening Bear Care Health and Wellness Center, which will serve students ages birth to 21 to meet their basic care needs free of charge.

“We’re hoping that within the next week that we’re going to be able to add a mental

health component to it,” Ouren said.

The wellness center will be open Mondays and Wednesdays from 2 to 6 p.m. From 2 to 3 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays., a telehealth clinic will be offered.

Kazmierczak said they were planning on opening and running the center this summer; however, due to current circumstances, the clinic has opened a few months earlier than anticipated.

Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald shared that meals are being distributed to families who need it, per the governor’s orders.

There are several ways that students can access meals.

“There’s a form that we ask them to fill out just to reserve their meal so we know how many to prepare. It doesn’t ask them to identify themselves in the request form,” Wald said.

Curbside pickup is available for breakfast and lunch at Birch Lake, Oneka and Willow Lane elementary schools.

Families can pick up two breakfasts and two lunches for each child on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The district has also set up 11 neighborhood pickup sites. Bus drivers are working with school cooks. The meals are delivered from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Families can pick up meals at any of those locations if transportation to the three elementary schools is a challenge.

Wald said district social workers have also been in contact with the White Bear Lake Area Emergency Food Shelf. There are weekend packs families can pick up as well.

Tim Mauer, director of community services, said as part of the governor’s order the district has been asked to provide child care for children of emergency responders and health care workers,

termed Tier One employees.

The program was rolled out several weeks ago at three sites and has had just under 300 submissions of forms sent out districtwide. It is currently serving up to 80 students. Mauer said staff members are working on opening up a child care program for tier two employees.

Director of Technology and Innovation Steve Asper said the technology department has been working diligently on instructional tools and platforms that teachers are using, including tools like Google Meet, which puts their infrastructure to the test.

The district is also making sure teachers and students have the hardware they need to connect.

“We did a calling survey to connect every student with a phone call to make sure they’re doing well. It was also a time where we could gather some critical information around technology needs and some other health and wellness needs,” Asper said.

At the time of the meeting, Asper said staff had already connected with 4,700 students directly. From those calls, the district knows there are internet needs for 150 students, but that number is expected to go up some. The district also procured 250 WiFi hotspots.

Vette advised families to check the district website, as it is updated regularly.

A page is set aside just for COVID-19 updates, and is available in Spanish.

“We are doing a daily email out to our families and sending that to staff as well,” she said.

The district is sharing whatever information it has with families on a daily basis.

“It’s pretty amazing, the amount of work that’s happened in the last few days,” said Kazmierczak.

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APRIL 9, 2020

THE CITIZEN

D OVI -1

9

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www.readthecitizen.com

15

EMPTY AT EASTER: ‘This too shall pass’ FROM PAGE 1

members are invited to share their favorite Bible verses or comforting passages, which will then be shared with others.

Heinecke says this pandemic has really provided an opportunity for people to reevaluate and see how they can be of service to others. “It has helped people to be more conscious of those who are in need, someone who has hard time going out shopping or someone who is financially down on their luck,” he said. “It has helped people to be intentional about reaching out to them.”

Those who wish to “attend” New Life Church’s Easter services can do so online at newlifehugo. org/.

“Especially now in a world fi lled with uncertainty, it is important to hold on to something solid: ‘something solid’ is Jesus’ love for us. It never has changed, and it never will change,” Heinecke said. “God is faithful, and this too shall pass. He is here for us. God has been faithful through far scarier times than this and He will continue to be faithful until he returns and fi xes everything.”

White Bear Lake United Methodist Church About four weeks ago White Bear Lake United Methodist Church started planning for how it would continue to serve its members during the pandemic. In the beginning the church held in-person services with social distancing guidelines, but it has since moved its efforts all online.

In addition to its regular Sunday worship services being available online, the church has implemented an evening prayer every night at 7 p.m. on Facebook live. Youth and children’s ministries, Sunday School and confi rmation has also moved online.

“We are trying to give people a feel for being in worship but also changing it enough to realize that this is something people are watching in their homes with their families and that is different,” explained Senior Pastor Bill Eaves.

“We are learning how to do that.”

Eaves said in times of uncertainty, people can start to have questions such as “is God punishing us?” or “Is God trying to teach us a lesson?” “Our God is a good God and natural evil happens...Would God really be killing all these people around the world to test us? We want to help people think through those things,” Eaves said. “We want to help people understand that we are the same people as we were before, our God is the same God as before. We are the same church community as we were before. We just have to go about things in a little bit of a different way now.”

The church will try, as much as possible, to still convey the joy that Easter brings through its online services. Visit the church’s website at wblumc.org, Facebook page or YouTube channel.

Stained glass little angels float on clouds above Jesus in a window at at Parkview United Church of Christ.

PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLCATIONS

Light streams through intricate stained glass designs inside St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church in White Bear Lake.

Eaves wants everyone to remember that we are stronger as a community rather than individuals. “Faith gives us a way to have a larger perspective on the world, especially in this time when we are all isolated and many of us are stuck in our own homes. We are tempted to just focus on ourselves and kind of forget that everybody is going through the same things we are,” he said. “As a community, we are stronger than we are as individuals. As a spiritual community we have unseen resources and we need to remember to tap into those at this time.”

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

Hugo Legion Post 620 charitable gambling donates over $190K with the goal of maintaining public support. Successful charitable gambling funds important local programs.

"We are indeed grateful for the public’s support of our program and the Post,” said Commander Greg Burmeister, noting that this partnership helps the organization do great things. “We couldn’t achieve that without support of folks who recognize how important charitable gaming is to our community.”

Statewide, charitable gambling sales increased for the ninth straight year, largely fueled by the increased popularity of electronic gaming. Sales rose from $330 million nine years ago to $2 billion in fiscal year 2018 and $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2019.

The State Gambling Board reported a fiscal year increase in electronic gaming of 65% over the previous year.

Paper and electronic pull-tabs made up 95% of sales but bingo, raffles and tip boards also increased for the 1,146 state licensed organizations that operate gaming at 2,836 sites.

Minnesota has the top charitable gaming program in the nation.

A major benefactor of charitable gaming is the new Vikings stadium.

The Legislature required charitable

gambling to pay $498 million of the $1.1 billion cost to cover the state’s share, using the increased revenue from electronic gaming.

Al Lund, director of Allied Charities of Minnesota, which represents the charitable gaming

industry, notes the program has been so successful that there is now a $36.9 million surplus in the stadium bond fund, which is expected to grow to $250 million by 2023.

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HUGO — A strong economy and enthusiastic patrons made it possible for the Hugo American Legion’s charitable gambling program to donate $191,165 to charitable causes in 2019.

Legion gambling also paid $94,668 in state taxes and another $6,877 in federal gaming revenue. The largest single recipient of funds was the state of Minnesota.

The chief local beneficiaries were youth recreation and athletics, Hugo and White Bear Lake boys and girls Scouting, Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf, Hugo Fire Department, Veterans Campground, 4-H Washington County, FFA Forest Lake, Shriners Hospitals for children, other nonprofit organizations, veterans, active duty military personnel, Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network and programs benefiting families with hardships.

Post Gambling Manager Bill Delaney had predicted that 2020 would be another strong year for the Post gaming program, but that is now an unknown following the closure of bars and restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Legion strives to manage a well-run and entertaining operation

16

THE CITIZEN

APRIL 9, 2020 www.readthecitizen.com

AROUND TOWN

1.

1. Hugo resident MaryKay Haas, a retired nurse, got out the sewing machine and made some homemade masks out of 100% cotton.

When the run on hand sanitizer began, she bought ingredients to make her own hand sanitizer and handed it out to snowbirds who were on their way back to Minnesota. — Submitted 2. Hugo resident Bri Wittek, an infant teacher at Kindergardens Child Development Center, decorated her front door with hearts. Even though child care is considered essential and Kindergardens remains open, she is unable to work right because she is considered at high-risk for COVID-19. — Submitted

2.

3. A customer recently handed out flowers to employees at Festival Foods in Hugo to thank them for all they are doing.

—Courtney Hartmann, submitted

3.

Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to citizennews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.

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Celebrate the Victory of His Only Begotten Son