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HUNT RETURNS: See first 3 clues for Golden Spike PAGE 20

Judge releases findings regarding appropriation permits

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANGING EDITOR

After months of waiting, a judge has weighed in on the appeals made by several cities in the north metro regarding the White Bear Lake level lawsuit.

Administrative Law Judge Eric Lipman issued his Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law and Order regarding the amendments made several years ago by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to some area water appropriation permits.

Seventeen permit holders — including 10 municipalities, three country clubs, several businesses and St. Paul Regional Water Services — formally contested changes to their permits.

In 2018, the DNR amended the cities’ water appropriation permits to require those cities to: 1. Plan on converting water supplies from groundwater to surface water sources 2. Prohibit lawn irrigation on residential properties whenever the elevation of White Bear Lake falls below 923.5 feet 3. Plan to phase down the average amount of water used in the community 4. Report on efforts to collaborate with neighboring communities on reducing water usage.

Each city challenged the lawfulness of one or more of the amended conditions, which resulted FILE

The annual Good Neighbor Days celebration will be June 7-9 at Hugo Lions Volunteer Park. See special section inside for more information.

SEE APPEAL, PAGE 2

Solar farms: City Council chooses to take 2nd pause HUGO — For the next six months, no new solar farm development applications will be accepted by the city.

For the second time, the City Council has approved an interim ordinance that establishes a moratorium

on new solar farms. To date, the city has received two solar farm applications, but Community Development Director Rachel Juba said the city knows of one more application that is in the works that remains incomplete.

“Staff recommends the council discuss whether to revise or add any regulations,

and they have received the the restrictions for solar farms restrictions or prohibitions to same feedback from residents. … We could put some siting the ordinance,” Juba said.

Klein questioned the need criteria, but my guess is we Council Member Phil Klein for a moratorium. “We have are probably going to hear asked whether city staff had made the restrictions much the same feedback every time any issues with the city’s more restrictive … When we (solar farms) are proposed.” current ordinance. have new additions put in place Juba added that city staff Juba responded, “I guess the community, I know have watched what has what we are trying to tell you IN SMALLER PRINT RIGHT AFTERinOF$25 OR that there is always pushback been happening in other is that we are getting the same (ADD EXCLUDES ALCHOL) where similar feedback from the residentsMOREcommunities even though we have increased solar projects are proposed,

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2 THE CITIZEN

MAY 30, 2024

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District continues to refine budget for 2024-2025 school year The board will take action on the preliminary budget in June.

District staff have been working on forming the budget since October.

“As the Legislature goes through its process, they wind up having much better numbers, which informs our preliminary budget, which we bring to the school board at the planning session in May. Then in June, we’ll bring it to [the board],” said Finance and Operations Tim Wald.

The primary budgetary concern, as has been the case for the past 20 years, continues to be the General Education Allowance’s failure to keep

up with inflation overtime.

This will cause the district to experience an $11,206,315 shortfall this coming year. “This is something that every school district in the state is painfully aware of,” Wald reported, “We continue to challenge leaders in the State of Minnesota to fully fund public education…”

Director of Finance Andi Johnson highlighted that projected revenue minus projected expenses showed “more revenue than expenses to the tune of about $818,000.”

This money will be rolled into the unassigned fund balance, adding to the districts goal of an 8% leftover ending fund balance.

“Based on what we know, we’re looking at a fund balance of $11,821,000,” she continued,

“We’ll continue to monitor and make changes as we know more.”

“We’ve had a lot of budgetary changes regarding nutrition services,” Johnson said in regards to the reinstatement of free meals. The expenses here will be higher than funds received in order to “spend down that balance,” Johnson explains.

Because White Bear’s expenses were under projections during COVID years, more will be spent this year to maintain the nutrition fund balance goal.

Johnson reiterated that the numbers were healthy and that “this is not a structural imbalance.”

Conversely, COVID had a negative impact on the community service fund. “We

CONTRIBUTED

District staff continue to work on and revise the budget before the school board adopts the preliminary budget in September. The tax levy will be finalized in December after a Truth in Taxation hearing.

had a lot less kids signing up during those years, but still had fixed costs,” Johnson stated, “so

we’re working our way out of a deficit there.”

APPEAL: Irrigation ban nixed FROM PAGE 1

in the contested case hearing before Judge Lipman at the end of 2023.

In last week’s ruling, Judge Lipman found that amended permit conditions 1, 3 and 4 are “reasonable and lawful” measures to protect groundwater supplies.

Judge Lipman found that permit condition 2 does not treat all of those who irrigate lawns in the east metro similarly and is not reasonable or lawful. Additionally, he found that the broader solution to the overuse of local groundwater supplies and lower levels of White Bear Lake is to convert cities in the northeast metro area to surface water sources, and to do so as quickly as possible.

The cities are still evaluating what this ruling will mean for them and their residents, but they are happy to see the irrigation ban will not continue.

“We are very pleased that the draconian, unenforceable and unfair

irrigation ban has been obliterated,” Hugo City Administrator Bryan Bear said. “The rest of the ruling is being evaluated.”

Vadnais Heights City Administrator Kevin Watson added, “The city of Vadnais Heights is happy to see that Judge Lipman heard the city’s concerns about the residential irrigation ban, its ineffectiveness for increasing White Bear Lake levels, and its arbitrary application to only residential water users. We are currently reviewing the judge’s decision to determine the next steps for promoting water conservation within our community.”

For more information, visit mn.gov/ oah/assets/2002-37733-dnr-variouswater-appropriation-permits-report_ tcm19-624584.pdf.

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

Background: White Bear Lake level lawsuit

806423

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The water appropriations issue dates back to the White Bear Lake level lawsuit, filed in 2012. In 2017, the plaintiffs, the White Bear Lake Restoration Association and intervening homeowners association, prevailed. The defendants, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and intervening cities that included Hugo, lost.

District Court Judge Margaret Marrinan ruled that the DNR’s current and planned permitting of high-capacity wells and management of White Bear Lake and the Prairie du Chien-Jordan aquifer violated both the Minnesota Environmental Rights Act (MERA) and the public trust.

The DNR’s conduct, the judge decided, impaired White Bear Lake and its underlying aquifer by allowing excessive pumping, all the while

knowing that the withdrawals were not sustainable.

The court order required enforcement of a residential irrigation ban when the level of White Bear Lake falls below 923.5 feet; a phase-down of daily per capita residential water use to 75 gallons; contingency plans for partial or total conversion to use of surface water; and a requirement that all groundwater permittees report annually to the DNR on their collaborative efforts toward those mandates.

The order also mandated that the DNR could not issue any new groundwater appropriation permits or authorize increases in existing permits within 5 miles of the lake, at least not until there is sufficient data to understand impacts on water levels and the underlying Prairie du Chien aquifer.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

MAY 30, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

Movie in the park When: Dusk, June 8 Where: Polar Lakes Park,1280 Hammond Rd., White Bear Township Details: Bring a lawn chair or banket and bug spray and watch a free family-friendly movie outdoors.

“Super Mario Brothers” shows on June 8. See weather updates on facebook.

Contact: facebook.com/ WhiteBearTownshipMNOfficialSite

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12: 45 p.m. Thursdays May 30 and June 6; and every 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday of each month.

Where: Rice Lake Centre in Hugo, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin promptly at 12:45 p.m.

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

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

CURRENT EVENTS

COMMUNITY MARKET RIBBON CUTTING & OPEN HOUSE When: 4:30 p.m., Thursday, May 30 Where: Community Market, 2446 County Rd F Details: Everyone is welcome to the opening of the Community Market, a new free food market and community resource hub by the White Bear Area Food Shelf. Remarks by state and local leaders followed by self-guided tours of Community Market.

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Details: 13th Annual “More than a plant sale” expo includes local conservation and restoration groups discussing how to grow native plants to benefit pollinators, wildlife, and water quality. Purchase plants from local growers. Food truck on site.

Contact:tiny.cc/LR24

KIDS BIKE RODEO

When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, June 8 Where: White Bear Lake Public Works facility, 3950 Hoffman Rd. Details: Kids can get bikes tuned up, helmets fitted, rider safety information, demonstrations, prizes and ride through courses. Registration required.

Contact: whitebearlake.org/publicsafety/webform/ kids-bike-rodeo

BASICS OF SQUARE DANCING

Not a food distribution.

Contact: whitebearfoodshelf.org

When: 6-7:45 p.m. Monday, June 10 Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St. Details: All are welcome to learn sqare dancing, including solos, couples, and families. Casual attire; partners provided.

Contact: 651-208-5807

LOCAL AUTHOR EVENT

SKILLS FOR DISAGREEING BETTER

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP | CONTRIBUTED

ONGOING EVENTS

THE CITIZEN

When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 30 Where: Anchor Coffee House, 4742 Washington Square, White Bear Lake Details: Visit with 10-12 local authors and other book lovers. Coffee and hot chocolate available.

Contact; catalystwbl.org

BEARS EXPLORE OUTDOORS

When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, May 31 Where: Bald Eagle-Otter Lakes Regional Park, 5785 Hugo Road, White Bear Lake Details: Community event with fishing, activities, games, food, music, demonstrations, bike giveaways and more.

Contact: WBLAS Community Services & Recreation at 651-407-7500

LANDSCAPE REVIVAL

When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, June 1 Where: Rockpoint Church, 5825 Kelvin Ave. N., Lake Elmo

When: 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, June 11 Where: White Bear Schools District Center, 4855 Bloom Ave. Details: Braver Angels-led workshop helps participants learn strategies to have better conversations with family and friends who disagree about politics. Register online.

Contact: //bit.ly/3UZYfpr

MINNESOTA STATE HIGH SCHOOL RODEO CHAMPIONSHIP

When: 7 p.m. Friday, June 14 and Saturday, June 15; noon Sunday, June 16 Where: Dead Broke Arena, Hwy 61 and 170th St., Hugo Details: Top high school contenders compete to win a trip to nationals. Free pony rides, cowboy hats for kids, vendors, and food trucks one hour before each rodeo. See ticket information online.

Contact: deadbrokesaddleclub.org/mn-high-schoolrodeo-state-finals

New updates revealed on I-35E reconstruction project

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Ramsey County Public Works unveiled updates to its ongoing County Road J & I-35E Interchange reconstruction planning at its May 17 open house event. The event, which was hosted at the Ramsey County Public Works Office from 4 to 6 p.m., is the second open house related to the project. The first open house, held last summer, introduced some initial concepts.

The project was first introduced in late 2021. Project members identified several traffic congestion and access issues affecting pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. The proposed solutions included creating access from southbound I-35E to County Road J, creating access from County Road J to northbound I-35E, and improving County Road J between Centerville Road and Otter Lake Road.

One new change concerns a roundabout at Centerville Road and County Road J. “We considered an option to make it potentially bigger,” said Project Consultant Chris Hiniker.

“We backed off on doing that to reduce costs and right-of-way impact.” Hiniker also highlighted potentially higher traffic congestion as a reason why plans did not move forward.

Anoka County Assistant County Engineer Jerry Auge further emphasized the changes during the open house. “We’re working to improve the intersection at Otter Lake Road,” said Auge. “Right now, it’s a T-intersection that will turn into a roundabout. It’ll connect into the east side ramps, both the northbound off-ramp and the northbound on-ramp to I-35E.” Auge said this would give greater access to motorists coming from the road to I-35E. Auge also spotlighted other CONTRIBUTED improvements, specifically the four-

The Ramsey County Public Works department has been updating planned changes to connect Centerville Road and Otter Lake Road to I-35E.

MAPS CONTRIBUTED

The department will also be working on improving County Road J between Centerville Road and Otter Lake Road.

way intersection of 20th Avenue South and County Road J in White Bear Township. “We’re going to turn that into a roundabout as well,” said Auge. “We’ll also add an off-ramp going southbound in that location. It’ll improve the safety and speed of the vehicles in the area.”

After the first open house, Lino

Lakes resident Amy Donlen said she was happy with the changes in plans for County Road J. “I think they made some good changes to the first several plans,” said Donlen, who lives on Centerville Road. One initial plan involved extending County Road J through a conservation easement on a neighbor’s property. This was scrapped

after significant pushback arose at the first open house.

Despite this, Donlen still voiced concerns she had regarding traffic congestion. “I live in an already busy area,” said Donlen. “An access ramp to the northbound freeway and southbound exit from I-35E to County Road J will bring more traffic. I’m worried that this will make it harder for people who want to exit their driveways.”

More concerns were echoed by White Bear Township residents.

Jean Cook, who lives on Otter Lake Road, expressed similar concerns about traffic. “I’m worried about the commercial and manufacturing companies off Centerville Road,” said Cook. She said her biggest fear was that more access from these businesses to I-35E would bring traffic closer to Otter Lake Road.

“If there’s more freeway access from different directions, that’s going to bring that traffic closer to our residential area,” explained Cook.

“There could be a greater chance of someone taking Otter Lake Road as a shortcut to get onto I-35 E.” Elise Raburn, who lives next door to Cook, also voiced her concerns. “I don’t know what the environmental impact on this will be,” said Raburn. “From what I heard, they aren’t going to install any noise barriers along I-35E. That bothers me.”

When asked about these concerns, Project Manager Joey Lindquist said that through future open houses, new changes will be made to the project before its scheduled 2025 construction start date.

Erik Suchy is a writer at Press Publications. To reach him, contact him at 651-407-1229, or email at whitebearnews@presspubs.com

OPINION

4 THE CITIZEN

www.presspubs.com

MAY 30, 2024

The strength of local news in an era of division

I

n their hit song, “Bad Moon Rising,” Creedence Clearwater Revival writes, “I see trouble on the way/I see earthquakes and lightnin’/I see bad times today.” Though a product of its time, these lyrics still hold true regarding the tensions surrounding divisions in politics and social justice.

I see these tensions constantly made worse by various national news channels, which seek to fan these flames of divisiveness solely for ratings.

It is here where I must stress the importance of local news and its effects on readers. Specifically, I want to highlight the warmth and joy it can spread through human interest and community-driven stories. These intended effects are crucial to one’s mental health in a time of anxiety and uncertainty.

I was first drawn to the appeal Suchy’s of local journalism when I was Scoop beginning college. Before that, I read every edgy, political/world Erik Suchy event-driven story I could find. I was bizarrely fascinated by reading about this kind of drama from left and right-wing perspectives. It was as though the very sense of division I find myself rallying against now entranced me into reading more and more without stopping.

But then came the stress. The often-sleepless nights. The mentality of dependency I got caught in. My mood became based on not knowing if the next story I read was about civilization’s proximity to the brink of destruction. I knew I had to stop reading if it meant being at peace, but I couldn’t. I was too far down the rabbit hole of world drama to even care.

Who knew that a random visit to the Press Publications website would help change my entire outlook on news?

But alas, one random click was all it took for me to get hooked. And boy, was I lucky to reap the benefits of what I saw. No headlines expressed distaste for anyone with differing political ideologies, and there was no anticipation of how close World War III was.

People discussed their love for volunteering to make a difference in their local communities.

There were human interest stories on different organizations and businesses. Often, there were previews of upcoming events around town. People seemed happy to be alive and honored to call the north metro their home.

No anger. No spite. Just pure, unrefined happiness sprouting from a desire to highlight the best of people. In short, the perfect template for what I should follow as a creative writing major and soonto-be journalist.

However, this isn’t just an example others should follow for pursuing journalism as their dream career. It’s also an opportunity for readers to escape the stressful hubbub of national news and focus on something much brighter. True, there is still a time and place to read about events in the greater scheme of things. We always want to know about forces outside of our control that have the potential to impact the way we live. Yes, they do deserve our attention from time to time.

But as humans, we also deserve a chance to break tradition and uncover positivity in our communities today. That alone is worth picking up a copy of your local paper today.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229, or email at whitebearnes@presspubs.com

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Transforming learning and seeing results

ost of us are familiar with Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland.” In the child’s fairy tale, Alice asks the mysterious Cheshire Cat, “Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?” “That depends a good deal on where you want to get to,” said the Cat. “I don’t much care where–” said Alice. “Then it doesn’t matter which way you go,” said the Cat. For far too many American youth over recent decades, this Movers & conversation mirrors Shakers their school experience. Many Wayne students navigate their education Kazmierczak with uncertainty, going through the motions, following instructions, and collecting diplomas, yet they leave still wondering. This passive learning, a remnant of the Industrial Revolution, prepared students in an assembly-line fashion but fails to equip them for a rapidly changing world.

Recognizing this problem in 2017, the White Bear Lake Area Schools Strategic Planning Team set a vision to transform learning.

What if our schools could ensure students realize their unique talents and abilities to make meaningful contributions with

local and global impact? What if we promote, encourage, and support students’ personal learning experiences and aspirations? What if we built a future where students design and create their future?

Today, the work of our Strategic Planning vision is evident. Recent interviews with elementary students about their learning experiences revealed significant insights. Students as young as 8 and 9 described making daily decisions that impact their learning, from choosing where to sit for focus or collaboration to managing their schedules and transitioning between activities.

These students are no longer passive recipients of information but active participants in learning.

A district-wide commitment to student success has led to gains for high school students as well.

Our graduation rates lead state averages across all demographic groups. In 2023, our South Campus boasted a graduation rate of 93%, including 82% of special education students, 94% of Black or African American students, 95% of White students, and 75% of Hispanic/Latino students.

Additionally, our district was recognized on the College Board AP Honor Roll for maintaining high expectations, expanding access to advanced coursework, and closing achievement gaps.

This investment in our youth has profound community

implications. A high school diploma significantly increases lifetime earnings—by an average of one million dollars per student.

Thus, as we transform individual lives, we infuse over $24 billion into our economy over their lifetimes.

Our students are succeeding.

Our girls soccer, girls basketball, and boys hockey teams earned bids to state tournaments; our Knowledge Bowl team reached state for the first time; our theater program excelled in the Spotlight Theatre Awards (with the most awards in the last 15 years); and our high school bands and robotics team earned regional recognition. Two of our students completed the highest number of Ford Automotive Career Exploration program modules in the United States, supported by our partnership with Ford Motor Company.

The future demands variety in skills and talents, and children driven by their intrinsic interests and motivations will excel.

Rather than filling students with information, authentic learning ignites curiosity and creativity.

Unlike Alice in Wonderland, in White Bear Lake Area Schools, students discover their talents and design their futures from an early age. The days of “I don’t much care” need to be well behind us.

Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak, Superintendent, White Bear Lake Area Schools

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THE CITIZEN

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

5

WEEKLY WAG

The opposite of ‘woke’ is ‘conked’

The claims and concerns of some Republican politicians over how “woke” ideology is infiltrating and threatening our society can best be served with a large side of irony.

“Woke” is now a derogatory moniker used by the right to name anything that threatens the conservative status quo.

For example, great “anti-woke” crusader Gov. DeSantis (aka DeSanctimonious) of Florida refuses to acknowledge the human causes of climate change.

He recently made a big show of not accepting federal funding that would address controlling emissions. “Florida gave up $3 million in federal grant funding and as much as $500 million more by declining to participate in a Biden administration program aimed at helping states address the human-caused emissions warming the global climate.” (Inside Climate News, Amy Green 5/24) And yet, here is the big serving of irony: To date, federal support following Hurricane Ian for Florida totals $8.69 billion: FEMA provided $1.13 billion in grants to more than 386,000 households in 26 counties. The U.S. Small Business Administration approved $1.94 billion in disaster loans for homeowners, renters and

businesses. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program paid $4.38 billion for more than 47,300 claims filed. FEMA obligated more than $1.8 billion to reimburse state and local applicants for emergency response, debris removal and repair or replacement of public facilities. (From the FEMA website). And undoubtedly, there is more federal funding going to support other damage attributable to increased hurricane activity in Florida.

No, Florida Republicans are not so much “anti-woke” as they are just plain conked to the realities of human-caused climate change. An amazing Minnesota Republican congressperson recently entitled a bill “Trust the Science Act”. So, yes let’s wake up and trust the science of climate change.

Will Perry Hugo

Living under an insane government

Things I believe the current government is doing: 1. Spending us into hyperinflation and bankruptcy, which means bank and currency failure.

2. Invading the country with illegal aliens — most of whom we know nothing about.

3. Not defending the country and even giving away or abandoning much of our military equipment.

4. Using money meant for defense to fill our atmosphere with tons and tons of particulates (chemtrails) that will have who knows what effect on the environment going forward.

5. Running a “justice” department that wants to throw you in jail (and throw away the key) if you oppose their ideology and want to support America.

6. Wants to raise taxes to confiscatory rates so it gets harder and harder to own property.

7. Increases regulation on private business to try to force them out of business.

8. Tries to get us to take unnecessary “vaccines” that do more harm than good.

9. Buys votes by paying off education debt and gives away money to illegals.

10. Fouls up the education system by teaching kids about sex and race instead of the three Rs. 11. Is abandoning Israel to its “neighbors” — something God Himself has warned us not to do.

But what else should we expect from a leader who’s in bed with those who hate America and want the country destroyed to create a new world order?

Robert Kluk Hugo

Puppy alert! Meet Jessie, a 5-month old Labrador retriever/ mastiff mix. Jessie is a gorgeous pup with a smooth, glossy coat and soulful eyes. She is charming, playful, curious, cuddly and ready to become part of a loving forever family.

Jessie arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the Lone Star to North Star Program. She has a wonderful personality and a heart as big as her paws. Jessie would do best with a person or family who is patient and understanding and has the time to help and train her to be her best self. Being a Labrador mix, training should come relatively easily. Thanks to the combination of her mixed Labrador and mastiff breeds, Jessie is naturally smart, gentle and loyal.

She will make the perfect playmate for a family with or without children. She is sweet, spirited and eager to bring joy and a lot of wet kisses to you and your family. If you are interested in learning more about Jessie or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue. org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

BUSINESS BRIEFS

Nystrom expands Hugo Clinic

CONTRIBUTED

Nystrom & Associates hosts a ribbon cutting to celebrate the expansion of its Hugo clinic.

Nystrom & Associates recently celebrated the expansion of its Hugo clinic. The expansion will almost double the clinic’s size and will enable more providers to meet the community’s mental health care needs. It will also eventually allow the addition of medication management services, ensuring prescribed medications are used effectively and safely, and will incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a specialized talk therapy program that promotes self-acceptance and equips individuals with emotional management and coping skills.

Nystrom’s Hugo location currently offers individual

Premier Banks of Hugo will host a Good Neighbor Days open house from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 8 at its new location, 14773 Flay Ave. N. Attendees have the chance to win a “cash tornado.”

Premier Banks will also host a grand opening party

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

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11:00AM to Close Blue Heron Grill

BINGO ON SATURDAY

Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville

Starting at 1:00PM

Meat Raffle

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Festival Foods of Hugo won the Best Innovative Marketing Silver Plate Award for its 2023 Bag Hunger Campaign.

Through the campaign, it was able to raise enough funds to donate $1,000 to the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf.

14725 Victor Hugo Blvd |Hugo

Celebrate Mass with us!

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

Sunday Join us onWorship Sunday:

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

Festival wins award, donates to food shelf

Premier Banks hosts open house, grand opening

CHURCH DIRECTORY Find the church that fits your needs Lutheran Church

from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 11. The event will include dinner, refreshments, ice cream and more family fun.

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outpatient therapy, couples and family therapy, substance use treatment and psychiatric services.

By broadening its capacity, Nystrom aims to meet the growing demand for mental health support and ensure patients receive timely and effective care.

“We have an amazing team in Hugo who demonstrate clinical excellence and compassion for our clients,” said Doug Foote, Nystrom’s chief operating officer.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 819,000 people in Minnesota have a mental health condition, yet many do not receive the care they need. As mental health care needs continue to rise, the clinic expansion highlights Nystrom’s dedication to providing accessible and comprehensive mental health care options to individuals across the state and region.

For more information on services available and to schedule an appointment, please visit: www. nystromcounseling.com.

6 THE CITIZEN

COPS&COURTS www.readthecitizen.com

MAY 30, 2024

HUGO POLICE REPORTS The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents: • An identification card was reported found at 3:16 p.m. April 14 in the 12000 block of Janero Avenue N. and turned into Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 12:41 a.m.

April 15 on Forest Blvd. N. and 152nd Street N. for failure to present a valid driver’s license, following a traffic stop.

• A resident in the 5000 block of Evergreen Drive N. at 10:06 a.m. April 15 reported an attempted scam on Instagram from a male wanting bank account information.

• A license plate was reported stolen from the 5000 block of 165th Street N. at 2:52 p.m. April 16.

• Downed trees blocking the road were reported on 125th Street N. at Upper Heather Avenue N. at 7:10 p.m. April 16, following afternoon thunderstorms.

More downed trees blocking the road were reported at 9:03 p.m. that same evening on Irish Avenue at 152nd Street N. The Public Works Department was called out to remove them.

• A suspicious light pole reported to have been knocked down by a vehicle at 11:55 p.m. April 16 on 132nd Street N. and 132nd Way N. turned out to have been knocked down by the wind.

The Public Works Department was advised to come out to rescue the pole.

• Residents in the 1000 block of Finale Avenue N. at 11:12 a.m. April 17 reported fraudulent activity on their banking account. Residents in the 5000 block of 140th Street N. at 12:36 p.m. that same day reported a check stolen from their mail, after which it was washed and fraudulently used.

• A resident in the 4000 block of Evergreen Drive N. at 12:46 p.m. April 17 reported receiving a scam phone call from strangers stating they knew where the complainant and his family lived.

The complainant hung up on the scammer.

• Animal control officers were reported at 5:56 p.m.

April 17 for removing animals from the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. due to deficient living conditions.

• A motorist was issued a written warning at 10:14 p.m. April 17 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for displaying vehicle tabs that had expired in September 2023.

• Management at a restaurant in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 8:16 p.m. April 18 reported a suspicious and unwanted person on the premises, requesting that the subject be trespassed. Deputies arriving on scene complied by presenting the trespass notice to the suspect.

• Deputies on rolling patrol on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. at 11:06 a.m. April 19 observed a driver with a cell phone attached to the right ear and talking into the phone. During the traffic stop, the driver admitted to the violation.

• A motorist was cited at 5:32 p.m. April 19 on Forest Blvd. N. and 147th Street N. for failure to display current vehicle registration and for driving on an expired commercial drivers’ license, following a traffic stop for the tardy tabs.

• A motorist pulled over for a traffic violation at 9:16 p.m. April 19 on Forest Blvd. N. and 130th Street N. was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

• An eastbound motorist was cited for speeding 65 mph in a 55 mph zone at 8:55 a.m. April 20 on 122nd Street N. at July Avenue N. by west-facing deputies on stationary patrol, who clocked the vehicle on radar. The driver would admit to going only 62 mph.

• Deputies took a phone complaint from a man in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 1:50 p.m.

April 20 about having to pay impound fees for his dog at the Otter Lake Animal Hospital.

When deputies advised the complainant that it was a civil matter between him and the animal hospital, he became upset, cursed at them and hung up.

• Debris was reported in the middle of the roadway on 170th Street N. and Forest Blvd. N. at 10:15 p.m.

April 20. Deputies arrived on scene and removed the paper from the street.

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies responded to a harassment report in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 6:59 p.m. April 21.

• Deputies initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding 48 mph in a posted 35 mph zone on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. at 12:10 a.m. April 22.

• A male causing a disturbance with employees and customers in the Kwik Trip store in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. at 2:36 a.m. April 22 was issued trespass papers by store management.

• An adult male was arrested for undisclosed violations at 5:49 p.m. April 22 in the 14000 block of Everton Avenue N., following a traffic stop for expired registration.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 9:38 p.m.

April 22 on Frenchman Road after deputies on patrol conducted a random computer check and discovered the vehicle in front of them was tagged for revoked license plates.

• Another motorist was issued insurance forms to complete at 11:59 p.m. April 23 on Forest Blvd.

N. and 130th Street N., following a traffic stop for driving conduct. When his identification and insurance were requested, the driver was unable to provide current proof of insurance.

The driver had 10 days to provide proof of being insured to avoid being mailed a citation.

• A trailer-towing driver was mailed a citation for two violations, following a traffic stop at 6:33 a.m. April 24 on a private road for being on the phone while driving. In addition, no plates were displayed on the trailer being towed.

• A business in the 15000 block of Jeffrey Avenue

N. at 4:32 p.m. April 24 reported that a check had been stolen and washed for a new amount, which was likely greater than the original amount written.

• A motorist was arrested for DWI at 12:58 a.m.

April 25 on Forest Blvd. N. and 147th Street N., after deputies initiated a traffic stop for speeding 55 mph in a 35 mph zone and expired registration. On contact, deputies observed signs of impairment and bloodshot, watery eyes in the driver and a moderate odor of an alcoholic beverage in the vehicle. The last straw was the enlarged pupils, after which deputies requested the driver to complete standardized field sobriety testing and a portable breath test.

After she registered a blood alcohol content of 0.10, the driver was arrested and transported to jail, where she was booked and released with a citation.

• Deputies took a fraud report from the 12000 block of Goodview Avenue N. at 1:39 a.m. April 25.

• Residents in the 12000 block of Fondant Trail N. at 10:11 a.m. April 25 reported receiving emails from an outfit claiming to be Experian, a consumer credit reporting company, regarding their child’s identity being stolen. The complainants use Experian, but when they called Experian for clarification, the company was not at all helpful in confirming they sent the email. The complainant didn’t provide any information to the emailer, and deputies advised them not to respond until Experian verifies they sent the email. Deputies also advised the complainant that companies do not request personal information via email.

• Property owners in the 5000 block of 138th Street at 12:27 p.m. April 25 reported being harassed by hunters who used to hunt on their land and who are now upset that the former owners sold the land.

• Residents in the 15000 block of Farnham Avenue N. at 4:08 p.m. April 25 reported receiving a phone call from an individual claiming to be a Dakota County Sheriff’s Office deputy and saying that the complainants have a warrant out on them.

WCSO deputies confirmed that the complainants did not have a warrant out on them and they were being scammed.

• A motorist was cited at 9:38 p.m. April 25 on Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for multiple traffic violations and also investigated for possible domestic abuse no-contact order violations.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 6:18 p.m. April 26 reported receiving a phone call purporting to be from Publisher’s Clearinghouse and urging him to buy gift cards so that he could receive his winnings. The complainant reassured us all that he did not buy gift cards and that he is not out any money.

• An eastbound motorist was cited at 9:25 a.m.

April 27 on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. at Goodview Avenue N. for speeding 44 mph in a 30 mph zone by westbound deputies on rolling patrol, who clocked the vehicle on radar at 44 mph in a 30 mph zone. Deputies described the driver’s attitude as “good”.

Loretta Harding

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS

Lino Lakes man missing after canoe goes over waterfall A search is underway for two canoeists who went missing after going over a waterfall in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

The incident occurred on the evening of Saturday, May 18, at Curtain Falls, which is located on Iron Lake in St. Louis County. According to a press release from the local sheriff, two canoes went over the falls shortly before 7:21 p.m. One person was badly injured and two were still missing as of press time.

The wounded person and another individual who was uninjured were airlifted from the scene by a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources helicopter around 12:30 a.m. The

sheriff’s office said the injured party was flown to a hospital in Duluth with serious but not life-threatening injuries.

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office identified the missing canoers as Reis Melvin Grams, 40, of Lino Lakes and Jesse Melvin Haugen, 40, of Cambridge.

Washington County recognizes Explorers

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office recently hosted the 2024 Exploring Awards Celebration at the Washington County Government Center. The presentation included scholarships for youth leadership achievement, advisors and posts recognitions. This year, Explorer Tyler Harris received the “Learning

Explorer Tyler Harris received the “Learning for Life Youth Leadership Award.”

Explorer McKenzie Springborn receives a $1,000 scholarship from the Major Mahipathi Scholarship Foundation.

for Life Youth Leadership Award.”

This nationally recognized award is given to tenured Explorers who have demonstrated leadership within the program and the community and is the highest honor an Explorer can receive.

McKenzie Springborn received a $1,000 Scholarship from the Major

Mahipathi Scholarship foundation. The recipient of this scholarship is decided on by a volunteer committee of law enforcement and community leaders, and is selected based on their academic achievements, leadership ability, and strong record of school participation and community activities.

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MAY 30, 2024

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SOLAR : Hugo City Council pauses new solar farm development, approves 2nd moratorium FROM PAGE 1

because they don’t want those people moving in next door to them because it is a change,” he said. “I don’t see any difference in the responses that we would get regardless of the changes that we would make.”

Juba explained the moratorium was just a way to continue the discussion if the council so desired.

City Council Member Becky Petryk said she wanted to make it clear that the city of Hugo does encourage rooftop solar panels or smaller arrays in yards.

Juba explained the moratorium would not apply to those types of solar panels referred to as “accessory solar.”

City Administrator Bryan Bear explained that the moratorium process was led in part by the “community opposition” to these types of projects.

“Despite the city adding more and more restrictions to solar farms, that community opposition doesn’t change,” he said.

He said the conversation was not necessarily about what restrictions could be added to the ordinance, but rather whether certain locations within the city would be acceptable for that kind of development and what the location criteria would be. Currently, solar farms are allowed in agricultural zoning districts, including agricultural, rural residential and future urban

service. They are also allowed in other districts within floodplains or wetlands.

“If you like the ordinance the way that it is, we are OK with leaving it as it is, but we wanted to float this idea for you to determine whether you think there should be changes to that ordinance or whether you think they should be prohibited completely,” Bear said.

Council Member Mike Miron said he would be okay with “taking a pause” so the council and Planning Commission could further discuss the criteria for acceptable locations in areas having particular characteristics.

“I think those pieces of the ordinance are fairly restrictive or aggressive, but there is that outstanding character piece that might be worthwhile to continue to have a discussion to get that part of the conversation right,” he said, adding that the council and Planning Commission should do some joint workshops. “Those two groups looked at that a bit differently in the most recent application,” he said. (See “Council sides with neighbors, says no to solar farm” May 16.)

Council Member David Strub said he was still concerned. “I think the ordinance is very good in quantifying setbacks and sightlines,

and directed the ordinance review committee to study the ordinance and consider revisions.

• In June 2023, City Council extended the moratorium for another six months.

• In May 2024 City Council denied a solar farm application from Enterprise Energy LLC for a 12acre parcel of land located east of Everton Avenue North and north of 149th Street North.

History of Hugo’s solar farm ordinance • In 2016 City Council adopted an ordinance that regulates solar energy systems.

• In 2018 City Council approved its first solar farm from FastSun LLC Solar, located on 165th Street west of Henna Avenue.

• In February 2023, City Council established a six-month moratorium that prohibits new solar farms

but I don’t know how we can quantify neighborhood character,” he said.

“When the second applicant came in, he jumped through a lot of hoops that we required of him, and at the end, he was denied because of subjective criteria …

I agree the discussion needs to go on.”

Petryk said she agreed more discussion would be a good idea. “I think the review committee did a great job drafting up our ordinance and doing everything they could possibly do, but also I do not think it would hurt for us to take a pause and look at this again.”

Klein pointed out that Strub had previously brought up a great point

about property owners having rights too. “The people who own these properties should have an opportunity or at least be allowed to put a business that is conducive on their property,” he said. “In this last vote that we had, I had a hard time with it, I still do …

What about the owner? We just reduced their property values by not approving that solar farm.”

Ultimately, the council unanimously (Mayor Tom Weidt was absent), voted to enact the six-month moratorium.

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

COUNTY BRIEFS

County board accepts $715,016 grant for homelessness prevention

The Washington County Board of Commissioners recently accepted a $715,016 grant agreement for homelessness prevention for families and for securing housing for families experiencing homelessness. The Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP) grant was awarded by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MN Housing) to provide supportive services and/or financial assistance to families who are experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of homelessness.

The county has applied for and received FHPAP grant funding since 2007. It has contracted with community providers to utilize the funds to stabilize families in their existing homes, shorten the amount of time that families spend in emergency shelters and assist families with securing transitional or permanent affordable housing. Agencies that will receive funds from the second round of FHPAP funding are Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services, Solid Ground, and Valley Outreach.

County board authorizes issuance, sale of up to $30 million in bonds

Commissioners have authorized the issuance and sale of up to $30 million in county bonds. The board passed two parameter resolutions setting the terms and conditions for the issuance and sale of general obligation capital improvement plan bonds, Series 2024A, in an amount not to exceed $30 million, and general obligation capital improvement plan refunding bonds, Series 2024B. Washington County is allowed by law to finance certain capital improvements under an approved capital improvement plan by the issuance of general obligation bonds to be repaid through property taxes. The county board will use the bond sale to fund two projects from the county’s 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan — the Central Service and License Center construction project and the Central Park improvement project in Woodbury.

The county will have bond rating discussions with Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s this May, and the pricing committee will consider bids and award sale of bonds in June. The county expects to receive funds from the bond sale in July.

County board approves contract for crack sealing program

Washington County has selected Fahrner Asphalt Sealers LLC to provide crack sealing services on county roads in 2024 for a total of $228,075. Crack sealing is performed annually within the county system on various county roads, county highways and county facilities. Crack sealing is a maintenance process that seals cracks in roads. This reduces the amount of water that can infiltrate the cement and road base, which reduces freeze-thaw damage.

Reducing the freeze-thaw damage helps to slow down road degradation. Prolonging the life of the road helps to preserve the financial investment in the road and extends the amount of time until the next reconstruction is needed. The contract will be funded through county wheelage tax and the capital repair fund.

Library kicks off summer programs for all ages June 1

Washington County Library’s summer programs for kids, teens and adults begin Saturday, June 1, and continue through Saturday, Aug. 17.

Through the Summer Adventure program, kids ages 0-11 can read, learn, listen and explore with an alien friend, Zorb. This flexible program can be tailored to each child’s interests and learning needs.

Teens ages 12-18 can Level Up! their summer with a video game-themed program that promotes literacy of all kinds, including reading, crafting, cooking and gaming. Adults can join in the fun, too. With the 10,000 Experiences at Your Library program, participants can check out librarian-recommended reads, explore the community and take home a prize.

Participants complete activities on a game card for each program and return it to the library to collect a

reward. Each person who completes a game card is also entered in a drawing for the chance to win grand prizes.

This summer, performers visiting Washington County Library include the Great Brodini, Hooperina, Bill the Juggler, the Roe Family Singers and more. All programs are free and open to the public, although some require registration. For additional information, visit www.WashCoLib.org.

Free admission to Washington County parks

Celebrate National Get Outdoors Day June 8 by taking advantage of free entry to all Washington County parks during the normal hours of operation.

Since 2008, communities have been celebrating National Get Outdoors Day. The goal is to inspire and motivate people to get outside and enjoy a day of healthy and fun outdoor adventures and exploration.

Washington County Parks designates the second Saturday in June as a free day to visit the county parks without requiring a vehicle permit. The county operates 10 parks and regional trails. For more information about county parks, visit co.washington. mn.us/Parks or contact staff by calling 651-430-4300 or emailing parks@co.washington.mn.us.

County board honors traffic engineer for lifetime achievement award

The Washington County Board of Commissioners recently honored Traffic Engineer Joe Gustafson for receiving the David P. Brand Safety lifetime achievement award. Gustafson received the award at the National Association of County Engineers (NACE) annual conference last month. The award is given to an individual who has improved safety on the local, regional, state and national levels and recognizes the individual’s efforts to join forces with other organizations to build partnerships with the goal of improving safety performance and eliminating fatalities and serious injuries.

CALENDAR BRIEF

Forest Lake Masons hosts barbecue drive-thru The Forest Lake Masons will host a barbecue drive-thru from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, June 9. Those who participate can decide between a savory smoked Italian pork sandwich or a smoked pork with plum sauce sandwich.

The Masons will match funds donated at the drive-thru to Rangers Supporting Rangers (RSR).

RSR provides food support to the district’s students and families with a financial need. The Forest Lake Masonic Lodge is located at 119 Eighth Avenue SE.

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THE CITIZEN

11

High school wrestler meets toughest opponent yet Facts about diffuse midline glioma

• It is one of the rarest kinds of brain tumors in the United States; only 150 to 300 new cases are reported each year.

• It is most common in children between 5 and 7, but can be found in teenagers.

• Fewer than 10% of children diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma survive two years after the initial diagnosis.

• It is currently unknown how diffuse midline glioma forms in children or teenagers.

Kessel poses with his wrestling medals for a senior portrait.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Gabe Kessel, a wrestler and junior at White Bear Lake Area High School, was recently diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer. Kessel has had a lifelong passion for wrestling. His coaches describe him as a funny and respectful team member.

Gabe Kessel may be down, but he is far from giving up.

Kessel is a junior at White Bear Lake Area High School and a star wrestler on the school’s team. Although Kessel’s wrestling career seemed poised for success, it was cut short on April 22 when devastating news arrived.

On that day, Kessel was diagnosed with diffuse midline glioma, a rare cancerous brain tumor. Despite this, Kessel and his family are determined to fight it through thick and thin.

According to wrestling coach Jeff Isaac, Kessel had been experiencing worsening headaches a month before his diagnosis. “His dad Joe thought he was just dehydrated at first,” said Isaac.

“But after one tournament, it got bad

enough to where Joe had to bring him into urgent care.”

On April 8, Kessel was admitted to Regions Hospital’s Neuro-Surgical Intensive Care Unit in St. Paul. After two weeks of emergency surgery and tests, doctors confirmed the tumor’s presence. “The doctors said he potentially only had months to live,” Joe said.

“It felt like the wind got completely knocked out of me at that moment.”

Kessel has since been discharged and is living at home with his parents.

However, home is where Kessel’s fight has only just begun.

“As a parent, I started focusing on what I could do,” said Joe. “Because sitting and waiting for what they said was inevitable is unacceptable. That’s not the outcome we will accept.”

Kessel has begun receiving radiation

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treatment daily at Regions. Each appointment lasts around 45 minutes.

Here, doctors have focused on slowing the tumor and treating Kessel’s spinal column to prevent further tumors from developing. Both the tumor and cancer cells in Kessel’s body have stopped growing as a result of the treatments.

However, Kessel says he feels hesitant about his future and does not know if the tumor could return.

“All I can think about is how much I never respected life until now,” he said.

“Right now, I’m learning to cherish every moment. I hope to be here for the rest of my life.” With his parents’ encouragement, Kessel has also remained committed to eating a healthy diet and exercising lightly at home.

In addition to working out, Kessel has lived quietly at home, occasionally hanging out with friends and playing video games. According to Kessel, his biggest post-treatment highlight was being able to go to prom. “It was great,” he said. “I went with my girlfriend and a few friends. We danced a little, talked a lot and had a great time.”

Yet, as unsure as Kessel is about his future, Joe reveals that there may be hope for his son. That hope is in the form of an experimental drug called ONC201, which is still in its trial phases.

According to a 2023 article posted on the University of Michigan Medical School website, in one of its early trials ONC201 appears to slow the progress of the disease for many patients with diffuse midline glioma.

The University of Minnesota Medical Center is the only hospital in Minnesota participating in ONC201 trials. Joe said he contacted the center to see if his son could participate in one such trial run, but is still awaiting a response.

“This is where we’re holding on to hope,” said Joe. “When you’re told your son has a specific type of cancer, and you have an opportunity to get that medicine, you do everything you can to get it. This is not how his story ends.”

Those wanting to donate to Gabe’s GoFundMe can do so at www.gofundme. com/f/GabesCorner.

White Bear Lake Hockey Association

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12 THE CITIZEN

MAY 30, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

IT’S LAKER TIME!

HUGO BITS & PIECES • There will be fireworks at Good Neighbor Days on Saturday, June 8!

The Hugo Lions Club recently received a fireworks display permit. PC Pyrotechnics, a licensed operator, will discharge fireworks on city-owned property located north of the wellhouse adjacent to the northwest corner of St. John’s Cemetery. The Hugo Fire Department will have an apparatus on standby.

• M/I Homes has requested an amendment to its planned unit development (PUD) general plan for the Shores of the Oneka Lake 4th Addition to create 25 single-family detached lots where 24 twin home lots were previously approved by council. The council also approved the final plat and development agreement. The council approved the request.

• City Administrator Bryan Bear’s performance review (a closed session) is scheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, June 3.

• City Hall and the public works building will be closed on Friday, July 5. Each full-time employee is allowed one day of their choosing as a personal holiday with the same benefits as a reg-

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The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, June 3, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

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ular holiday. Staff members collectively agreed to take their holiday July 5.

• The council will conduct interviews to fill vacancies on the Economic Development Authority, Parks Commission and Historical Commission at 7 p.m.

Monday, July 22. City Administrator Bryan Bear said the city has received some applications but encourages other residents to apply.

• The council will not take any action at this time regarding the judge’s ruling in the water appropriation permit appeal from the Office of Administrative Hearings. (See full story in this week’s paper). The council recently held a closed session pursuant to Minn. Stat.

D.05 Subd. 3(b) to discuss information relating to the lawsuit. City Attorney Dave Snyder said he wanted to update the council on the results of the judge’s findings and update them on options going forward.

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THE CITIZEN

13

Remembering the forgotten war with Dr. Don Sonsalla

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Nestled in downtown White Bear Lake are Dr. Don Sonsalla and his wife of 70 years, Verna. From an employment standpoint, Sonsalla’s retirement is well deserved: He hauled cement blocks for a trucking company; got a bachelor’s degree from Winona State and two doctorates from the University of Minnesota; and was a teacher, then counselor, then principal in St. Paul Public Schools for 40 years.

All the while, his co-workers never knew that he was also a Purple Heart recipient and Korean War veteran.

“Multiple schools. None of my teachers knew about it,” Sonsalla said.

He noted that once the war was over, he went back to his old job: “Just walked in, started driving truck again, and nobody said anything … It wasn’t until my grandkids started growing up and asking a whole bunch of questions that Verna said, ‘You better write this down.’”

The result of Verna’s suggestion is “A Purple Heart Story: My Experiences in the US Army and the Korean War,” a concise book that nonetheless etches its words into its readers’ brains. If simply reading about a soldier’s experiences is this upsetting, it is no wonder why veterans are reluctant to recount their experiences.

Tragically, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was only first diagnosed in 1980; effective treatments were not standardized until 2003.

“PTSD is an interesting thing; each person has to deal with it differently,” Sonsalla explained. “Those who have been in combat … bury it and want to keep it buried.

“To solve my PTSD was to put it in writing.”

The following is just an outline of his remedy: Sonsalla became part of Baker Company, 15th Regiment, 3rd Division. “In November 1950, we did a beach landing in Wonsan, North Korea … That’s when I saw the first kid killed. A kid right next to me—Bernie (Stover) got shot, and then we made the landing,” Sonsalla describes.

A newspaper at the time estimated that Sonsalla’s division saw combat 95% of the days they were on Korean

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

“A Purple Heart Story: My Experiences in the US Army and the Korean War” was written by Don Sonsalla, PhD, to answer his grandchildren’s curiosity about his service.

soil. In his first five weeks in Korea, Sonsalla participated in the defense of the Majon-ni mountain base, Operation Revenge (aka the retaking of Ambush Alley), the Chosin Reservoir campaign and the Hungnam Evacuation.

“General William Sherman said, ‘War is hell.’ He forgot to add—not only is war hell, but also the recollection of war is hell to a combat veteran. During night terrors, I visit hell.”

Donald R. Sonsalla PhD, “A Purple Heart Story” The Battle of Chosin Reservoir alone claimed 70,000 casualties—20,000 more than the Battle of Gettysburg. Because of a Siberian cold front, temperatures during this battle were often colder

On Memorial Day back in 2016, Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan flew the American flag in honor of Dr. Don Sonsalla and his service during the Korean War. His grand­ daughter, a Marine, witnessed the occasion.

than those on the surface of Mars!

Historians consider the subsequent Hungnam Evacuation to be one of the prominent military rescue operations of history, a feat on par with Dunkirk.

Sonsalla earned his Purple Heart three months later at the Battle of Easter Egg Hill on Easter Sunday 1951. “I’m going up that hill, sneak behind a mortar position … knocked out all of the guys (there),” Sonsalla remembers, “and right in front of me, a Chinese soldier jumped out … lobbed several grenades down at me … and I’m getting ready to go up and get that guy, but I couldn’t stand …”

Sonsalla spent six months regaining use of his legs in a hospital in Tokyo before returning stateside. He spent another eight years battling blood poisoning due to embedded shrapnel.

When asked what his Purple Heart means to him, Sonsalla replied, “I bled my heart for our democracy. I actually put blood out, not just rhetoric.”

In addition to his Purple Heart, Sonsalla earned the rank of Corporal, became a squad leader and received four Bronze Stars and the Combat Infantry Badge. While he felt heroic, he no longer felt human.

“My parents picked me up in Chicago. I’d just gotten off the hospital boat. We went to a bar for a drink, and I was not 21 yet … and a bartender wasn’t gonna serve me. So, I came across that bar, grabbed that guy, and started throwing him around, and I said ‘I’ll kill you right now if you don’t serve me,’” Sonsalla admits, slapping the table with finality, “That time, I swore I’d never do that again. That’s the day I forgave myself.”

Sonsalla credits his wife, Verna, for much of his healing, confessing, “She saved me. I was a killer. I was angry.

And she rehabilitated me.”

Letting go, however, is a process that has taken Sonsalla his entire life.

“The one that sticks with me is when we were in the mountains,” Sonsalla remembered. “There was a Buddhist temple—very small. There was one Buddhist statue that stood 4 feet high, and behind it was a North Korean soldier … I threw an incendiary grenade in there and burned the church down.

“Forty years after the war, I went back to Korea … and there was a Buddhist temple. Through an interpreter, I talked to the monk—told him what a terrible thing I did, that it’s haunted me all my life. And he said, ‘Son, those things happen. It’s war.’ … and he gave me a tiny Buddhist statue.

“When (my granddaughter) got her commission in the JAG program, I gave her that statue to wish her good luck. And so it’s on her desk wherever she goes.”

Now, more than 70 years after his service, Sonsalla is the last remaining veteran of his division.

“At 93, I’ve outlived ‘em all. That, I know,” he said. Memorial Day, then, gains more significance for Sonsalla as each fellow veteran passes on. “It’s an opportunity to think about all the guys I lost.”

Sonsalla’s main focus now is helping living veterans. “We have a small group of veterans that meet here once every two months,” he noted, “and we have the Ramsey County Veteran Affairs officer meet with us, so all of our vets are caught up to date.”

Working with these veterans has shown Sonsalla a pattern.

“In war,” Sonsalla said, “There are no unwounded soldiers.”

Centerville home values up, residents will be relieved of some tax burden

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The big news from Centerville’s Local Board of Appeal & Equalization for taxes payable in 2025 is that the share of the tax burden has fallen slightly for residential properties.

Centerville’s team of assessors recently paid their annual visit to City Hall to provide a summary of the city’s property values over the past year.

Presenting the city’s valuation numbers were city residential assessors Mary Wells, senior accredited Minnesota assessor (SAMA); Chris Larson, accredited Minnesota assessor (AMA); Erik Skogquist, city commercial/industrial/apartment assessor, SAMA; and Ben Hamill, Anoka County assessment compliance manager.

Annually, the city must hold a public hearing, called the Local Board of Appeal & Equalization, on the city assessor’s classification and valuation for each property within the city’s jurisdiction. No citizens stepped up to speak, although assessors fielded about five phone questions.

Residential property owners may have calmed down in 2024, after the gob-smacking valuation increase of 25% in 2022 and the much more tame increase of 5.4% in 2023. This year, in 2024, the valuation increase is even more quiet with an increase of a mere 3.16% from last year.

That 3.16% increase is shown in the 2024 preliminary value, minus new construction, of $677,958,200

for taxes payable 2025. The city value, minus new construction, from last year for taxes payable 2024 was $638,325,700. With new construction, the 2024 preliminary total value is $704,174,300, or an overall increase of 7.15%.

Every property in the city must be inspected every five years (a quintile review). That means that 405 properties out of 1,663 parcels within the city were physically inspected for this year. For last year, 350 properties were inspected. Appraisal staff also inspected 85 properties this year where building permits were issued for improvement, remodeling or deconstruction.

Combined with inspections are sales figures. The 2024 values are determined using qualified sales that took place between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023.

During that time, there were 52 residential sales, of which 32 were qualified. The number of sales went down considerably from a total of 97 last year. For valuation, ratios are calculated by dividing the 2023 values by the adjusted sale prices.

Broken down, single-family non-waterfront property values increased by 3.07%; single-family waterfront values increased by 1.22%; townhome values increased by 2.32%; commercial values increased by 0.98%, industrial property values increased by 7.42%; agricultural property values increased by 14.56%; and apartment properties decreased in value by 4.01%.

Skogquist said that apartment units went up substantially last year and have now self-corrected.

And now here is the exciting news for residential

property owners, especially those feeling as though they’re doing all the heavy lifting to pay the city’s bills: the share of market value in each major property classification has shifted due to the recent new construction of several commercial and industrial properties, Skogquist said.

In 2021, residential properties carried 92.32% of the city’s tax burden, but in 2024, residential properties will now pay 83.89% of the bills. During the interim, the value of commercial and industrial properties has almost doubled, and apartment property values have more than quadrupled.

With the Amazon facility coming completely on line by next year at this time, residential property owners can expect to see their share of the tax bill shrink even further, Skogquist said.

Residents around town may groan a bit when they see beautiful and quiet vacant lands taken up by commercial enterprises. But the payoff comes around this time of year, when they see somebody else is helping to pay the bills.

Now that the Centerville Local Board of Appeal was held May 8, the Anoka County Board of Appeal will be held at 6 p.m. June 17. The proposed 2025 tax statements will be mailed in mid-November 2024, and tax court actions must be filed by April 30, 2025.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs. com or 651-407-1200.

14 THE CITIZEN

MAY 30, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

With Great Love: Q&A with Hugo mother, business owner

Michelle Kolb’s business, With Great Love, specializes in farmhouseinspired decor – mainly signs that feature inspirational messaging or custom design.

KRISTY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRIBUTED

Michelle Kolb pictured with her family – husband Nate; sons (from left) Callahan, Jackson and Brayden; and daughter Talia.

Hugo native Michelle Kolb is a mother and a business owner.

After having her fourth child in 2016, she realized having a full-time career was becoming too difficult and decided to shift gears and create a business where she could show her creative side.

Press Publications recently sat down with Kolb to learn more about her and her business, With Great Love.

Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself. You are from Hugo, correct?

A. My husband, Nate, and I moved to Hugo in 2008 with our two oldest sons, Brayden (18, senior at WBLAHS) and Jackson (15, freshman at WBLAHS) and welcomed two

more kiddos to our family after moving to Hugo, Talia (9, third grader at North Star Elementary) and Cal (7, first grader at North Star Elementary). Nate and I grew up in St. Paul and both knew city life was not for us. We looked around at many communities when deciding where we wanted to take root and absolutely fell in love with Hugo. We’ve now lived here for 15 years and love it as much now as we did back then!

Q. When and how did With Great Love come about?

A. I was working a corporate career in marketing and after having my fourth child in 2016, it became clear that juggling a full-time career and family life was becoming too much, so I

took the leap of leaving my 9-5 and stayed home with the kids.

I had been dreaming for years about creating a business where I could be creative and own my own business. From that dream, With Great Love was born.

Q. How did the name come about?

A. I knew that I wanted to use this business as a means to help feed the hungry. My heart breaks when I think of a mom who is not able to feed her kids. I’ve been so blessed to never have to worry about such things. Feed My Starving Children has always had a special place in my heart, so I decided that 10% of every sale would be directed to support their mission. I found myself wondering if 10% would make a difference and remembered this quote from Mother Teresa, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” From that inspiration, the name of the

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company easily became With Great Love. To remind me that each and every creation, no matter how small, would help someone in some small way.

Q. Is this your full-time job?

If not, what is your “day job?”

A. My primary “job” is stayat-home mom. With Great Love gives me the flexibility to work as much or as little as needed to make time for my family.

Q. What sort of things do you make?

A. I make farmhouse-inspired decor — mainly signs that feature inspirational messaging or custom designs.

Q. Do you have any help for these creations?

A. My husband is a general contractor, and he helps tremendously by crafting every frame and cutting all of my backgrounds. I couldn’t do this without him! Otherwise, it’s just me ... the creator, the bookkeeper, the marketer, the janitor — ha!

Q. Tell us about your mission to feed the hungry.

A. I wanted my kids to see what it looks like to chase a dream while making a positive impact on your community. I’m so hopeful that this will trickle down to them and they will continue this mission to serve others, in whatever way they are called.

Q. Where can people find your items? Can they find you in any local stores or online? Do you have a website?

A. I primarily sell through the Argyle Moose in Hugo and through word of mouth that I’ve built over the years. I’ve had an Etsy shop in the past and may have one in future, but right now, with my oldest graduating and my others in ALL the activities, I’ve decided to push pause on Etsy.

Q. Is there anything else you want people to know about With Great Love?

A. Gosh, just that if you have a dream, chase it. If you can do some bit of good in the world, do it. I walked away from a great career, and many wondered (including myself) if this was a wise decision. It was scary, but I’ve never regretted it. I listened to the calling on my life, followed my path, and have never been happier!

Editor’s note: Michelle Kolb can be reached at mkolb@ madewithgreatlove.com or through Facebook or Instagram.

Compiled by Shannon Granholm

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PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Two residents of Keystone Place at LaValle Fields in Hugo recently received Quilts of Valor, right before Memorial Day. The quilts are handmade and awarded to a service members or veterans who have been touched by war. Pictured above, Alan Anderson, talks about Memorial Day.

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

MAY 30, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

15

Zephyrs edge Mustangs, return to state

JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED

Crunch time Noelle Hemr, the Centennial lacrosse team’s leading scorer with 23 goals, gritted her teeth as she charged up the field during a loss to Elk River/Zimmerman on Monday. Hemr’s team and all the other Cougar teams are wrapping up their regular seasons and heading into their respective playoffs.

CENTENNIAL SPORTS BRIEFS Editor’s note: The Quad Press had an early deadline due to Memorial Day. Look for more sports coverage in next week’s issue.

SOFTBALL

Centennial lost its Section 5AAAA opener to Maple Grove 3-0 on Wednesday. Jordan Brustuen of the Crimson blanked the Cougars on four hits and two walks, striking out eight.

Riley O’Connell pitched well in the loss, allowing seven hits, striking out seven. The Cougars (10-10) dropped into the elimination bracket Friday, after press deadline.

BASEBALL

Centennial edged East Ridge 4-3 in the regular-season finale there Wednesday. Aiden Lieser knocked in two runs with a solo homer and basesloaded walk. Luke Gunderman worked 5 1/3 innings (four hits, no walks, no strikeouts) and got the win. Lieser got the last two outs in the sixth via strikeouts, while also walking three batters. Josh Lee threw a scoreless seventh for the save. The Cougars (10-10) will start Section 7AAAA on Wednesday. They finished 4-8 in the Northwest Suburban. Rogers was 10-1 for the championship.

GIRLS LACROSSE

Centennial has lost five straight, most recently to Elk River/ Zimmerman 15-7 on Monday and Rogers 19-8 on Wednesday to close conference play. The Cougars are 6-6 overall and finished 5-4 in the Northwest Suburban, tying for fifth place among 13 teams. Maple Grove was champion with an 8-0 mark.

BOYS LACROSSE

Centennial defeated Robbinsdale Armstrong 18-9 there Monday and lost to Rogers 13-11 at home Wednesday, closing the regular season. Against Armstrong, Brol Scherman and Gavin Cunningham each tallied four goals, Kellen Krumweide and Logan Adams three each, and Solomon Marshall two.

David Moran led with 11 ground balls and Trenton Kramer made 12 saves.

The Cougars, 6-7 overall, finished 6-2 in the Northwest Suburban, tying for third place among 12 teams. Rogers was champion with a 9-1 record.

TRACK

Centennial had a pair of secondplace finishes in day one of the Northwest Suburban Conference track meet on Tuesday at Elk River — by Kylie Nelson in the 3200 run with 10:56 and by Timothy Ball in shot put 55-6 3/4. Nicholas Jean placed sixth in the triple jump (42-6 1/2). Kyra Fjeld was ninth in high jump (4-10). Most of the events finals were held on Thursday and will be noted in next week’s Quad Press.

BOYS GOLF

Centennial finished ninth of 13 teams in the Northwest Suburban Conference. The Cougars’ top finishes in five conference meets were fourth and seventh place. Cooper Daikawa made the all-conference team and Tanner Youngbauer got honorable mention. Maple Grove was conference champion.

Bruce Strand

A LOOK AHEAD FOR COUGARS SPORTS

May 28

May 30

May 28

May 31

8 a.m. – Girls golf vs. multiple opponents at Links at Northfork Golf Course 10:30 a.m. – Track and field vs. multiple opponents at Forest Lake Area High School

8 a.m. – Girls golf vs. multiple opponents at Links at Northfork Golf Course 5 p.m. – Track and field vs. multiple opponents at Forest Lake Area High School

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Aidan Wald (dark cap) and Zach Burge (behind Wald) were rushed by teammates Sam Rathmanner, Jack Allaben and Brandon Pham after clinching the 4-3 win over Mounds View.

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Mahtomedi (23-2) will make a return trip to the state tournament after pulling out a 4-3 win over Mounds View in the Section 4AA finals.

Aidan Wald and Zach Burge got the clinching fourth point when they finished a 6-3, 6-2 win against Sidharth Sharma and Michael Wang. Zephyr teammates mobbed their No. 1 doubles team that had made the score 4-2.

Action took place at the University of Minnesota’s Baseline Courts, where Mahtomedi will return for the state tournament June 4-5.

“This was truly a state caliber match, with two teams in the top six vying for one spot,” reflected Aaron Freer, Zephyr coach. The Zephyrs (23-2) are ranked third and

best day to have their best match of the year, and it was so inspiring to watch the team rush their court.”

Mahtomedi’s losses came against No. 2 ranked Rochester Mayo 6-1 and No. 1 Wayzata 4-3 early in the season. In last year’s section finals, Mahtomedi won by the same 4-3 score over Mounds View.

In section singles competition, Rathmanner and Pham placed first and second, respectively, advancing to state individually. Each reached finals with three wins and Rathmanner topped Pham 6-3, 6-3.

Meanwhile, Allaben and Wald went 4-0 to capture the doubles title. In the finals, they beat Mounds View’s Bryntesen/Jones 6-4, 6-3. State singles and doubles will be held Thursday and Friday.

Mounds View (14-4) sixth by the coaches association.

Mahtomedi won the top three singles slots — Sam Rathmanner over Soren Swenson 6-0, 6-3; Brandon Pham over Nolan Jones 6-1, 6-1; and Jack Allaben over Anders Swenson 6-1, 6-2. Mounds View’s Max Daigle edged Will Lieberman 7-6 (6), 6-4 at No. 4 in the last match to be completed.

In doubles, Mounds View’s Parker Bryntesen/Andrew Hermes tripped Max and Eli Hendrickson 6-2, 6-2 at No. 2, and Christian Forbes/ Bryan Huie topped Luke Roettger/Reese Nelson 6-3, 6-2 at No. 3.

That left it up to 1-doubles. Freer said it “brought tears to my eyes” to watch Wald and Burge nab the clincher.

“I was a mess, in the best of ways,” he said, adding, “They picked the

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Luke Gunderman BrolCentennial Scherman Baseball Centennial Lacrosse

LukeScherman, Gunderman has pitched in 11lacrosse of Centennial’s 20has games, Brol Centennial junior standout, netted posting a 1.22 earned-run-average a 2-2 record (4-2) in while 22 goals and provided seven assistsand for the Cougars 23 innings, only six strikeouts only six walks as notching 17 with ground balls (a change but of possession statistic). well. Hitting .170, he’s most valuable on the mound and in the Scherman was all-conference as a sophomore with 36 goals outfield.

The 5-foot-10, 180-pound senior lefty has in and 28 assists.

The recruiting website ILMCA said ofpitched him: “Endthe Cougars’ last four games,with notching fiveconfidence scoreless innings to-end playmaking machine striking both on in three relief stints, then picking upthreat a 4-3 win a startoutside (5 and off the field.

Versatile offensive withinstrong 1/3 innings) Ridge.

“He’s such a good andand he shooting andagainst crease East finishing skills.

Magnetic teamkid, leader competes every day,” coach Robert Lynch. Gunderman was positive influencer.” also a baseball starter at guard, averaging 8.5 points.

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

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DEADLINE FOR • CLASSIFIED LINE ADS

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150

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

104

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

150

Help Wanted

Help Wanted Country view Marine in North Branch is looking for part-time customer service help, scheduling looking up, ordering parts checking customer in and out. Not required to bake cookie, cook lunch or do laundry.

We are looking for someone to join us in providing great customer service.

651.462.2400

beginning 5/26/2024 Are you tired of working in the corporate environment, would you like to work where you know you re making a difference country view Marine in north branch is seeking help with inbound calls, follow up calls, scheduling and ordering. Not required to have driven or owned a boat, experience boating related problems, gone fishing, been stranded in the fishing boat, change a battery, siphon fuel or used straight bleach on our upholstery and need a totally new interior.

Should be skilled in being friendly in person and on the phone and want to make a difference in boat owners lives. Call or send a resume to CountryView@msm.com 651-462-2400

Hugo Equipment is looking for PT/FT counter help with customer questions looking up parts, ordering, taking phone calls.

Not required to lift riding lawn mowers. visit in person, drop off resume or call 651.429.8163 Is your husband newly retired, is he following you around like a puppy. Hugo Equipment is looking for a driver to help with pick ups & drop off. We have the truck and trailer. Visit us at the shop or call 651.429.8163 Looking for Highschool student to help with setting up equipment at Hugo Equipment,unboxing,set up,cleaning,equipment prep.

Calll today 651.429.8163

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Part Time PT Yardwork, 3 hrs/Saturdays $25 hr stockman_management@msn.com

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Hire Me Ann's AwesomeHousecleaning - 20 Yrs experience. Dependable, Trustworthy References Avail. Call or text 651-776-7834

Lawnmowing & housecleaning 651.765.6313

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For Sale 18 ft two piece Shakespeare gold brand.

Ham radio antenna. best offer.

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Metro 2021 Coachman BHS Pull behind trailer $27,900 Sleeps 10 Queen bed,bunks, couch,dining area, outdoor cooking area w/fridge Call 651-399-2374

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358

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

407

Miscellaneous

Want to Buy

Estate Sales

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

Looking for old, twodoor cheverolet cars.

Not required to be running will pick up. Pre 1970 and earlier.

CALL 320.267.4491

Estate Yard Sale May 31 June 1-2 AND June 5,6,7 from 9-5 Life time collector.

19930 Jeffrey Ave N, Forest Lake

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited talk, text and data for just $25/mo! The power of 3 5G networks, one low price! Call today and get the latest iPhone every year on us! 855/849-6621 GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 In gift cards. Call today! 855/562-4309 Miscellaneous DON T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 866/852-5506 SAFE STEP North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today!

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

Cash in exchange.

Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142 We Buy Vinyl Records Lps, 45s, Stereo Equip We make house calls by appointment.

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

404

Garage Sales 2 Garage sales TWO sales at Second St. and Lake Ave. Fri-May 31/ 9-2pm Sat-June 1/ 9-2pm Tools,HH goods, jewelry,portable air conditioners,books,antiques and more! 4681 Lake Ave. WBL and neighbor WBL, Christ The King 1660 Birch Lake Ave Thur. May 30 8-8, Fri May 31 8-12 (Bag Sale)

451

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

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

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

• Employment • • Employment • • Employment • CITY OF MAHTOMEDI – NOW HIRING MECHANIC – PUBLIC WORKS The City of Mahtomedi (pop. 8,100) is accepting applications for a full-time position of Mechanic in the Public Works Department. This position performs intermediate skilled trade work operating, repairing and maintaining vehicles, engines, light and heavy equipment, and related work as assigned. Performs basic preventative maintenance on City vehicles including tune-ups, lubrication, tire changes and simple parts replacement. Services, diagnoses and repairs small and large pieces of City equipment, performs minor repairs in the field on City equipment, secures parts from suppliers and performs related work as required, operates City vehicles and equipment to perform testing, servicing and deliveries as required. May assign and direct the work of seasonal/temporary workers.

Performs Maintenance Operator duties as directed.

High School diploma or GED; and moderate experience in auto/truck repair and heavy equipment mechanics, or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Associate/Technical degree preferred. ASE Certified Master Medium/Heavy Technician Preferred. Must possess or be able to obtain a valid Commercial Driver’s License with Class B air brake and tanker endorsements within six months of hire. Must meet Department of Transportation drug and alcohol testing requirements. A Minnesota Class D Water License and Class S-D Wastewater License is preferred.

The starting salary is $32.09 - $38.43 per hour, depending on qualifications, plus benefits. Must complete city application. For a copy of the application packet and complete job description visit the city website at www.ci.mahtomedi.mn.us. Submit application material via email to: sneilson@ci.mahtomedi. mn.us or in person at 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115. Deadline for submission is 4:00 p.m., June 7, 2024.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

PRESS PUBLICATIONS IS SEEKING A

MULTIMEDIA REPRESENTATIVE

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

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

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Donate Your Vehicle Call (833) 937-2593 to donate your car, truck, boat, RV, and more today!

Submitting Public Notices Including Foreclosures, Certificates of Assumed Name, Liens, Probates and all other Public Notice Requirements

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Contact: Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn E-Mail: Legals@presspubs.com Call: 651-407-1200

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May 28 - June 2 vs. Rochester Red Wings June 4 - 9 vs. Syracuse Mets

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Your newspaper has agreed to participate in the Minnesota Display Ad Network program by running these ads in the main news section of your newspaper (not the classified section of your newspaper). At times, advertisers may request a specific section. However, the decision is ultimately up to each newspaper. Ads may need to be decreased/increased slightly in size to fit your column sizes.

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FINANCIAL PLANNING

MAY 30, 2024 www.readthecitizen.com

THE CITIZEN

19

Communities benefit when consumers shop local

Lines are short Waiting in long lines for checkout or to pick up merchandise ordered online can drain consumers’ energy and

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accessible when shopping big box stores or other shops where owners are off-site.

contribute to stress. Local businesses tend to have short lines and small crowds, which can lead to a more pleasant shopping experience.

Generates tax revenue Local businesses generate more tax revenue per sales dollar, according to Rubicon, a digital marketplace for waste and recycling businesses.

Taxes paid by local small businesses go to support schools, parks, roads, and other programs that benefit the community as well.

Support nonprofits Local businesses often support good work in the community, such as nonprofit groups. These can include schools and sports teams, among other groups. According to Dr. Sue Lynn Sasser, professor of economics at the University of Central Oklahoma, studies indicate nonprofits “receive 250% more support from small businesses than larger ones.”

Support other local businesses Local business support other local businesses by buying and selling among each other. A local, independently owned restaurant may source its ingredients from local farms, which means visitors to such eateries are supporting multiple local businesses each time they dine out.

Small businesses are a boon to the economy, particularly local economies.

These enterprises help their communities in a multitude of ways.

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Ideas about shopping are never set in stone, and the pandemic illustrated just how quickly consumer trends and opinions can change. Many individuals are now reevaluating how they spend their hard-earned money, particularly since inflation has affected just how far a dollar can be stretched. When consumers think about which stores to patronize, locally owned businesses may be the smartest option for a number of reasons - not the least of which is the way such enterprises benefit the communities they call home.

More money kept in the community Shopping locally means that more money will stay in the community.

According to recent research from Civic Economics, local eateries return nearly 79% of revenue to the community, compared to just over 30 percent for chain restaurants. Overall, for every $100 spent at a local business, around $73 remains in the community, verus roughly $43 when shopping at a non-locally owned business.

Get a personal touch Local business owners typically are inclined to go the extra mile for their customers and are personally invested in the services and products they are selling. As a result, shopping locally tends to be a personalized experience.

Furthermore, a local business owner may be more amenable to ordering products for specific clientele. Such personalized service is typically not

20 THE CITIZEN

MAY 30, 2024

www.readthecitizen.com

HUGO GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS 2024 Hunt for the Golden Spike

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE GOLDEN S

BEGINS 8AM MONDAY, JUNE 3RD

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Date: Saturday, June 18 • Time: 10 a.m. - Noo Join SAINTS us to celebrate our 1st a www.heartlandcu.com FIND THE GOLDEN SPIKE AND WIN A MIN. OF $600 CASH AND 6 ST. PAUL GAME Enjoy free shaved ice from Icelab, giv 14727 Victor Hugo Blvd. N

TICKETS! WIN EVEN MORE CASH AND $100 IN GIFT CERTIFICATES IF YOUR GOLDEN TICKET IS STAMPED BY THE PARTICIPATING SPONSORS!

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Golden Spike hunters, it’s time to get squirrely These first awesome clues released oh so early Plot and conspire with your get-rich-quick scheme When you find ol’ Spike – hurrah! - create a meme

Seek out a lake town in Washington County You know that you want to get the full bounty Stay above water and use Golden Ticket No need for pick, shovel or sticky wicket or swimming (or cricket?) is needed to find it!

Home of Good Neighbors, this hunt starts in Hugo Follow rules, be friendly and in communion Bring atlas and these clues wherever you know Including right to Heartland Credit Union

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JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

1

GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

Hugo Good Neighbor Days returns to Lions Volunteer Park

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

After a two-year hiatus from the city’s main park, Hugo Good Neighbor Days is set to return to Lions Volunteer Park June 7-9.

While the park was under construction, the event was moved to Hanifl Fields Athletic Park.

Many Good Neighbor Days staples will return, including carnival rides, food trucks, music and fireworks. This year’s parade, scheduled for 11 a.m.

June 8. The cornhole tournament and vendor craft fair will also return.

Bingo will return, but it will be indoors. Escape the heat and enjoy the

air conditioning in the Peder Pederson Pavilion.

New this year, is Hugo’s Got Talent.

From 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 8 a talent compeititon will happen on the Hugo Good Neighbor Day stage. The winning act will receive a cash prize.

Any age or talent is welcome to participate. To sign up, or for questions, email tbl222@aol.com.

Another new addition will be a pickleball tournament for all skill levels, and Hang Time Boardshop will host various free events at the skatepark.

In addition to the popular Kidzone (carnival), children may also enjoy visiting with animals from Sustainable Safari.

The 4th annual Ribfest competition will also return to Good Neighbor Days. The past couple of years it has been offered as a separate event in the fall. In addition to prizes for first, second and third place, there will also be a People’s Choice award. Members of the public are invited to purchase tasting tickets and vote for their favorite. Tickets will go on sale on Saturday at noon.

Music on Friday night will feature Coconut Tiger at 7:30 p.m. The band was formed in 2021 and prides themselves on being a fun and collaborative interactive show, where people from all over can come together to enjoy a night of “pure rock.”

Saturday night, Six to Midnight will

play at 7:30 p.m. The cover band plays everything from the ’60s to the ’80s to Justin Timberlake. “No gimmicks, no costumes, just a bunch of music-loving guys in jeans with some really bad jokes.”

And who could forget the hunt for the Golden Spike?! The first three clues are included in this edition of The Citizen, and additional clues will be posted once a day at 8 a.m. beginning Monday, June 3 until the spike is found.

For more information, visit www. goodneighbordays.com.

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

Official Good Neighbor Days Shuttle Routes

ENJOY GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS! Helping Minnesotans get the most from their money for 85 years!

Come meet us across from Blue Heron Grill.

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GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS

JUNE 7 -9, 2024

3

GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

A look back at previous Good Neighbors Good Neighbors aren’t hard to find in Hugo. The Lions Club has recognized at least one neighbor every year since 1995. Here is a look back: 1995-Lucille and Fran Lutz 1996-Lois and Henry Vietor 1997-Gert Granger 1998-Marlene and Darrell Granger 1999-Pat Wittkop 2000-Kathy Marier 2001-Viola Maslowski

2002-Jim Gits 2003-Judy Olinger 2004-Sharron and Deane Vail 2005-Jim Leroux 2006-Karen and Len Charpentier 2007-Pete Pedersen 2008- Gene, Theresa, Katrina and Paula Zerwas

2009-Floyd Petty 2010-Ray Pribnow 2011-Jim and Karen Bever 2012-Marlys Schaefer 2013-Kris Emerson 2014-Marilyn and Myles Stomberg 2015-John and Donna Kostuch 2016-Michele Anderson

2017-Barb Connolly 2018-Rick Kissner 2019-Bob Hanson 2020- Celebration canceled due to COVID-19 2021- Dr. Bill Barrett 2022- George Reus 2023- Jimmie and Rick Gregoire

Who will this year’s Good Neighbor be? Be sure to look for an article in an upcoming issue of The Citizen.

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Premium services include: • Cerakote, DuraCoat, • Mount and GunCandy and boresight of optics other finishes • Cleanings • Muzzle threading • Repairs • Pin and welds • And more

Now stocking Mountain House Freeze Dried Food.

Stop by for a free sample and a discount on MH products during Good Neighbor Days.

Great for camping, hiking and emergencies.

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• Anytime Fitness • MN Orthodontic • The Dance Unit • State Farm Insurance-Ty Schrupp • Northeast Eye Care • Hawaiian Tan Salons • The New Art of Chiropractic • Luxury Nails

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Carter Johnson – Publisher Tommy Chandler – Marketing

Shannon Granholm – Managing Editor Laurie Ericson – Production Designer

www.readthecitizen.com @Press Publications 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110

GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

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GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS

JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

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GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

Do you have talent? winner will receive a cash prize and a paid performance for 2025. The secondplace and third-place winners will also receive a cash prize. To sign up, visit www.goodneighbordays.com/talent-showcase.

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Show your talent in Hugo’s Got Talent from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 8 on the Hugo Good Neighbor Day Stage. All ages are welcome and so is any talent.

Groups or individuals can compete, and a Hugo connection is desired. The

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JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

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Happy Good Neighbor Days!

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One backpack per child. While supplies last.

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We are an established company handling all industrial & residential scrap needs. Try our fast and convenient location.

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GOOD NEIGHBOR DAYS

JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

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Sustainable Safari makes stop in Hugo wildlife shows.

Sustainable Safari will be in Lions Park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.. Sunday. Safari Bob might bring with him a baby kangaroo, opossum, otter, porcupine, goats or maybe even a skunk.

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New this year, will be a visit from Sustainable Safari at Hugo Good Neighbor Days. Sustainable Safari is a licensed and insured animal exhibitor at Maplewood Mall. The Safari is a destination experience for all ages and offers mobile and free daily

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JUNE 7 - 9, 2024

GOODNEIGHBORDAYS.COM

Hunt for the Golden Spike returns

Ketchup and mustard, Bert and Ernie, and … Hugo and the Golden Spike.

Some things just naturally go together.

The 2024 Hunt for the Golden Spike, Hugo’s very own treasure hunt, is a great way for Hugo residents to connect with the city’s parks and trails system.

Back just in time for Good Neighbor Days, June 7-9, Spike will be found on

public property somewhere within Hugo city limits. Courtesy of this year’s hunt sponsors, the lucky Spike finder will win $600 in cash and, if a completed Golden Ticket is submitted, some great additional prizes.

Appearing for the first time in 2006, Hugo’s Centennial Year, Spike continues to commemorate the city’s early

proximately 8 a.m. Monday, June 3, on The Citizen’s website (presspubs.com/ citizen) when the hunt officially begins.

Just click on the link (and don’t forget to refresh the page).

Take the whole family: Spike-hunting is even more fun than snipe-hunting — and it pays better, too.

years as a railroad town. In 2006 Spike was an authentic rail spike; since then, it’s been a plastic tent peg painted gold by none other than Spike’s official painter: Galen Carlson, owner of North Country Auto Body in Hugo.

Clues #1-3 and rules are printed on Page 20 of the May 30 issue of The Citizen. Clue #4 will be posted at ap-

Meet the man behind the clues Used Auto & Truck Parts & Professional Cylinder Head Repair Used and Rebuilt Parts • Used & Junk Vehicles Wanted

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This is the second year Mathias Baden has written the clues for the Hunt for the Golden Spike. He replaces former Citizen Managing Editor Deb Barnes, who wrote the clues for 12 hunts, dating back to 2006.

Baden, along with his wife and three kids, have long enjoyed deciphering clues around the Twin Cities. He also writes the clues for Woodbury Days’ medallion hunt. Baden was a journalist for 17 years and is now a Realtor at Edina Realty’s North Suburban office.

For more information, see (“Hunt for Golden Spike returns with new clue writer” on presspubs.com.)

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