Bewitching lake tour
twilight paddle board tour on Bald Eagle Lake dressed in witch costumes.
Keystone Place at LaValle Fields reflects on decade of care
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Keystone Place at LaValle Fields is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
Construction on the facility, located at 14602 Finale Ave. in Hugo, began in 2014, and the first residents moved in October 2015. The senior living facility is named after the LaValle family, whose members farmed the land. The homestead was platted by Marvin LaValle’s great-grandfather in 1909.
Bill Currier, of White Bear Lake, was hired in August 2015 to serve as executive director, a role he still fills today.
“I still remember after my interview, I drove through the parking lot during construction, and there was a potbelly pig walking through the parking lot, and I thought, ‘What am I getting myself into?’” Currier recalled.
Prior to his job at Keystone, Currier worked in the hospitality industry at hotels and private golf clubs. He then transitioned to senior living, working at Brookdale Senior Living at several locations for 11 years.
SEE KEYSTONE PLACE, PAGE 14
A tale of 2 soldiers: Finding purpose in service
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
One thing that Kevin Larson and Bobby Zellmann have in common is that the military gave them purpose.
From convoy cop to project manager: Lino Lakes veteran reflects on journey
After graduating from high school, Kevin Larson wasn’t sure what his future would hold.
“I didn’t really know what to do right out of high school. I didn’t really have much of a
plan or know where I wanted to go or what I wanted to major in, so the military was kind of the next step,” he said.
Larson, now a Lino Lakes resident, grew up in Coon Rapids and graduated from Anoka High School in 2005. He joined the military not only for the benefits, but also because he wanted to travel.
“I was wanting to travel, wanting to see the world and explore and see what the rest of the world has to offer,” he said. After completing boot camp and training for the Air Force, Larson drafted his “wish list”
of five bases he would prefer to be stationed at.
“All five of my bases that I chose were overseas. Then I found out I was going to Minot, North Dakota. I’d never heard of it,” Larson laughed. Larson served active duty in the Air Force as a police officer from 2006 to 2010. Although that base wasn’t on his wish list, he was thankful to be able to travel home to see family and friends on long weekends.
SEE VETERANS DAY, PAGE 2
Members of the Bald Eagle Paddle Board Club (aka SUP’er Club) from left, Janeen Evenson-Javogelaar, Melissa Bertling, Stacy Fields Janick, Anna Lindholm, Mary Lindholm and Melissa Telsrow recently took a
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Bobby Zellmann
Kevin Larson
VETERANS DAY: Lino Lakes, Hugo veteran grateful for military experience
FROM PAGE 1
The Minot Air Force Base opened in February 1957, filling the need for a fighter interceptor base responsible for protecting the United States’ northern border from Soviet bombers. The base is the only dual-wing nuclear capable base in the Air Force, hosting two legs of the “Strategic Triad.”
Larson’s job was as a convoy cop.
“Anytime warheads needed to be transported, or maintenance was required, we needed to do a convoy,” he explained. “It’s exactly what it sounds like. The new warhead was in a big semitruck, and we had vehicles in the front, vehicles in the back, and transported them wherever it needed to go and provided security.”
Larson is not the only member of his family to go into the military. His father also served in the Air Force for four years and his brother served in the Navy for 12 years.
After Larson completed active duty, he started working in Minot for a little bit before deciding to move back to Minnesota to be closer to family.
“Going from military life to civilian
VETERANS DAY EVENTS
Legion will honor veterans
American Legion Post 620 plans to celebrate its members and honor local veterans with a luncheon Sunday, Nov. 9. On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, active military members and veterans can enjoy discounted cheeseburger baskets with a valid ID. To sign up for the luncheon, contact the Legion at 651-255-1432 by Nov. 1.
Veteran Resources Open House
The Forest Lake YMCA will host a Veteran Resources Open House from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. The event will include resources from Amada Senior Care, Northeast Metro Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network, Magnus Veterans Foundation, Women Veterans Initiative, Freedom Fishing Foundation, Invisible Wounds Project, Washington County Veterans Services, VFW Post 4210 – Forest Lake and American Legion Post 2225 – Forest Lake.
life is a tough transition,” he recalled. “I didn’t really know where I was headed.”
Larson found out there were some openings at the Minneapolis – St. Paul Air Reserve Station at the Minneapolis – Saint Paul International Airport. He has been a member of the reserves now for 12 years.
“That’s where my civilian career really took off. I started doing nondestructive testing (NDT) and to this day I’m still in it,” Larson said. “It’s pretty crazy where life can take you.”
As a member of the Reserves, Larson is required to work one weekend a month. He is also required to put in 15 annual training (AT) days throughout the year. There are also temporary duty assignments (TDY) that he can partake in all over the world. Some range from one to two weeks, while others can last up to four to six weeks. Most recently, he took on an assignment last February in Hawaii.
On a quarterly basis, Larson visits the Hugo American Legion to help out with the Friday night meat raffle.
For the past 4 1/2 years, Larson has worked at Terracon, an engineering and consulting firm, as a project manager in the materials department.
Larson says his time in the military has shaped who he is today and provided him life experiences he would not have gotten any other way.
“I am so grateful for the military. I truly am. It made me the man I am today,” he said. “After high school, I was kind of lost and didn’t know what to do. I was kind of a punk kid and didn’t really appreciate anything,” Larson recalled. “Once I got into the military, went through boot camp and everything … It made me mature in a hurry.”
Larson says he is fortunate in that he has never been deployed, but he has still had to make some sacrifices, like missing out on special times with his wife Katie and their two children, 2-year-old Sophie and 4-year-old Theo. “My last drill weekend, I missed going to the pumpkin patch,” he explained.
Larson says being in the military has been a great experience. “I wouldn’t change it ever,” he said.
From athlete to officer: Hugo veteran finds fulfillment in Army National Guard
Zellmann, a Hugo resident, grew up in the Norwood Young America area and graduated from Shakopee High School. He had always considered joining the military, but completing his college education was the motivating factor.
“I wanted to finish my college degree. I was three credits away, and basic training gave me four credits,” Zellmann explained.
Military service runs in Zellmann’s family: his paternal grandfather served in the Navy, and his maternal grandfather in the Army.
“I didn’t really have much direction as far as what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I had good leadership traits
and leadership ability, and I felt I could contribute to an organization,” Zellmann said. “I played my sports entire life, and I knew that chapter was closing. I’d always heard about the camaraderie in the military, and I wanted to continue that.”
In 2012, Zellmann graduated from Officer Candidate School (OCS) in Marietta, Georgia. He and Emily, his now wife, moved out there for several years before Zellmann transferred back to Minnesota. From March 2021 to February 2022, he deployed with the 1st Battalion, 194th Armor Regiment, an Army National Guard battalion supporting the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division.
While deployed for Operation Spartan Shield, “Task Force Bastard” comprised 1,100 soldiers. In August 2021, Task Force Bastard, serving as the United States Central Command Regional Response Force based out of Camp Buehring, Kuwait, helped secure Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul during the evacuation of U.S. citizens and allies following the drawdown of U.S. forces in Afghanistan.
The task force worked alongside units to support Operation Allies Refuge by securing vital sectors of Hamid Karzai International Airport and providing humanitarian assistance to U.S. citizens, special immigrant visa holders and their families.
After returning from deployment, Zellmann reentered his civilian career in finance. “It just wasn’t satisfying for me anymore. I didn’t really have a purpose,” he recalled. “The military gives me purpose.” He added that the military has allowed him to see the “greater perspective” and have a greater impact.
Since 2022, Zellmann has served with the Army National Guard full time in various roles. Most recently, he serves as the medical detachment operations officer and is based out of the Cottage Grove Armory. He drills at the Minnesota Army National Guard Readiness Center in Stillwater.
Zellmann says he is thankful for the friendships and camaraderie he has gained while being in the military, something he hasn’t experienced since being a three-sport athlete in high school. He is also thankful for the general support that communities of the north metro have shown him.
“Many times, I’m in a uniform going to work, and I stop at gas station … Everywhere in our area has just been super supportive. Everyone says, ‘Thank you for your service.’ I’ve never had a negative interaction,” he said. “Everyone appreciates what we are trying to do, whether they agree or disagree with the politics; everyone seems to generally be supportive of everyone who wears a uniform.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
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PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Kevin Larson with his wife Katie and daughter Sophie.
Bobby Zellmann with his wife Emily and their two children Marek and Kennedy.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING
WHITE BEAR LAKE FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Fridays
Where: Clark Ave., between Second Street and Third Street
Details: A tradition since the 1970s, the farmers’ market features more than 50 vendors. Contact: whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8526
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12: 45 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, 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.
Contact: Barb at 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com
CRIBBAGE
When: Monday Nov. 3 , and ever 1st & 4th Monday of each month.
Where: Rice Lake Centre in Hugo, 6900 137th Street N. Details: All senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding areas are invited to join for an afternoon of Cribbage. Coffee and refreshments will be served. Contact: Alice at 651-429-4413
CURRENT EVENTS
FREE PARK ENTRY DAY
When: Tuesday, Nov. 4
Where: All Washington County Parks
Details: Visit any Washington County Park for free, no vehicle permit required on the first Tuesday of every month.
Contact: co.washington.mn.us/parks
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHREDDING EVENT
When: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6
Where: North Environmental Center, 6065 Headwayers
SCARECROW TRAIL
Pkwy, Forest Lake
Details: Document shredding by Shred-Right. Limit 6 boxes, 30 lbs per box. Open to residents and businesses in Washington County; proof of residency required. Contact: washingtoncountymn.gov/3031/Shredding-Events
SKULL STUDY
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Handle, examine and identify real and replica animal skulls. Ages 15+; register online. Contact: anokecountyparks.com
CRAFT CORNER 50TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
When: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8
Where: White Bear District Service Center at Sunrise Park, 2399 Cedar Ave.
Details: Explore a selection of handmade treasures, holiday décor and gifts created by local seniors. Contact: 651-653-3124 or isd624.org
WHITE BEAR LAKE WINTER MARKET
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8
Where: White Bear Lake Area High School Student Union (west entrance), 5040 Bald Eagle Ave.
Details: Indoor farmers market with local vendors and makers. Food trucks on site until 2 p.m. Contact: forksinthedirt.com
FINDING PEACE IN THE CAREGIVING JOURNEY
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8
Where: Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes, 6070 Blanchard Blvd.
Details: Minnesota author and family caregiver Linda Knebel Pruden shares her story of how caring for her husband with dementia provides a witness to the rewards and challenges of caregiving, and will sign copies of her book “From Fear to Peace.” First 25 participants receive a free book. Register online. Contact: lyngblomsten.org/findingpeace
PAINTING JONI-CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF A MASTER
When: 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Lori Dokken and friends play a music tribute to Joni Mitchell. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
VETERANS DAY LUMINARY TRIBUTE
When: 4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11
Where: Veteran’s Park next to White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave. S.
Details: VFW Post 1782 Auxiliary will set up luminaries at Veterans Park honoring the veterans who inspired our auxiliary membership. Community members who wish to honor a current or past veteran are welcome to participate. To request a luminary, email their name and branch of service to wblvfwaux@gmail.com by Nov. 3.
Veterans Day Celebration
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14
Where: White Bear District Service Center at Sunrise Park, 2399 Cedar Ave.
Details: Coffee, treats and concert by the White Bear Ukelele Bears. Contact: 651-653-3124 or isd624.org
Halloween event roundup
When: Thursday, Oct. 23- Monday, Nov. 3
Where: Community Park, 641 East County Road F, Vadnais Heights
Details: Local businesses, organizations and residents will install scarecrow creations along the trail. Stop out any time to view the entries, then vote for your favorite. The trail is open to the public during park hours.
SCARECROW CRAWL
When: Friday, Oct. 24- Friday, Oct. 31
Where: The Rookery Activity Center, 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes Details: Walk along the path at The Rookery to view scarecrows made by residents and local businesses. Vote for your favorite scarecrow.
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH TRUNK OR TREAT
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30
Where: Christ Lutheran Church, 4790 Rosemary Way, Hugo Details: Dress up in your costumes and trick-or-treat out of decorated trunks. Contact: 651-444-1144
PEACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH TRUNK-OR-TREAT
When: 5-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30
Where: Peace United Methodist Church, 5050 Hodgson Road, Shoreview
Details: Candy, candy, candy (including allergy free options at each trunk)! Vote for the best decorated trunk! Bonfire with s’mores. There will also be a fall themed gratitude walk through the prayer labyrinth.
KELLERMAN’S HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY
When: 7:30-11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31
Where: Kellerman’s Event Center, 2222 4th St., White Bear Lake
The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.
Details: Event features live music performed by WildCat Combo and a costume contest. Tickets sold at the door. Contact: www.kellermanseventcenter. com/halloweenparty
HALLOWEEN NIGHT WITH CENTENNIAL FIRE DEPARTMENT
When: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31
Where: Station 1, 2 East Road, Circle Pines; Station 3, 1880 Main St., Centerville
Details: Dress up in your costumes and trick-or-treat with members of the Centennial Fire Department. Grab some candy and learn about fire safety tips along the way.
SPOOKTACULAR HALLOWEEN PARTY
When: 8 p.m.-Midnight, Friday, Oct. 31
Where: Hugo American Legion Post 620, 5383 140th St. N.
Details: Event includes live music from ‘Sota Pop and a costume contest. Contact: 651-255-1432
CHURCH DIRECTORY
COWBOY’S SALOON HALLOWEEN PARTY
When: Friday, Oct. 31 and Saturday, Nov. 1
Where: Cowboy’s Saloon, 9005 South Highway Drive, Lexington Details: Event features a DJ, costume contest, food and refreshments
TRICK OR TREAT AT LINO LAKES FIRE STATION
When: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31
Where: Lino Lakes Fire Station No. 1, 7741 Lake Drive or Station No. 2, 1710 Birch St.
Details: Stop by either fire station for a station tour and candy. Contact: 651-340-7249
Fright night is here
Happy Halloween everyone! If you’re like me, Halloween and fall is my favorite time of year. I love decorating for the fall season. A month before the temperatures actually drop, I dig my sweaters out from under my bed way earlier than I’m supposed to. But what can I say? I love fall!
For the last few years, I have a tradition where I watch Tim Burton movies leading up to Halloween. Tim Burton is one of my favorite directors. And no one does Halloween or “spooky season” better than him.
Madeline’s Mail
Madeline Dolby
In September, I caught up on his Netflix television show “Wednesday.” The show follows Wednesday Addams and her friends during their time at Nevermore Boarding School. This month, I watched some of my favorite Burton movies “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “The Corpses Bride” and “Edward Scissorhands.” I also watched Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein.” It’s a classic and one of my favorite movies of all time. A few years back, my dad and I watched it on a projector against the front of our house right before Halloween. It was pretty cold, but it’s a memory I’ll never forget. Now, it’s become a family tradition to watch it near Halloween … But not outside anymore.
I’m not the only one getting into the Halloween spirit through. Multiple communities in our coverage area are hosting various events to celebrate as well.
In Lino Lakes, residents can take a stroll through the Scarecrow Crawl. Participants decorate a scarecrow along the path at The Rookery Center. Rookery members and visitors can vote on their favorite scarecrow through Friday, Oct. 31. Make sure to stop by Press Publications’ scarecrow and grab a photo!
Those who live in Vadnais Heights can also visit the Scarecrow Trail, located at Community Park until Monday, Nov. 3. The city also hosts a Halloween Party that includes a costume parade, games and a dance party. Before Halloween night, White Bear Lake hosts a “Scare in White Bear” 5K to get residents in the spirit. Participants race with glowsticks and race down a Halloween decorated path. After the race is complete, runners can trick or treat on Memorial Beach or grab a picture or two in the Halloween photo booth.
Shoreview also joins in on the fun. At McCullough Park, the city hosts a Boo Bash for local families. Those who attend put on their best costumes, enjoy trick-or-treating along a spooky trail walk, take a hayride, enjoy music and build s-mores at a bonfire. This year, Shoreview residents can also check out the Halloween Puzzle Competition, happening on Thursday, Oct. 30 at the Shoreview Community Center.
Make sure to check with your local churches, senior living facilities and organizations to see if they will be hosting a trunk-or-treat this year. Trunkor-treats are a great way for children to safely go trick-or-treating, dress up in their costumes and enjoy Halloween.
If you are planning on going trick-or-treating in your local neighborhood, make sure you wear bright, reflective costumes and carry flashlights to be seen by drivers, children should be accompanied by an adult and wait until you get home to eat treats. Candy that is already unwrapped or opened should be thrown away.
I hope everyone has a safe and spooktacular Halloween!
Madeline Dolby is editor of the Shoreview Press.
The fight for food access, our farmers and against fraud
ILegislator Lingo Heather Gustafson
t might come as a surprise to some people that I serve on the Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband Development, and Rural Committee. You might be asking, why is a senator from the suburbs serving on a committee about agriculture and rural communities? The truth is I wanted to serve on this committee and asked to be on it. I represent farmers right here in Lino Lakes and throughout Anoka County, and it’s one of the most bipartisan committees in the Senate. After all, what brings people together better than food and here in Minnesota our farmers and ranchers make more of it than just about every other place on Earth.
I’ve been thinking a lot about that committee during the fall, as it’s Harvest Time and October is Farm to School Month. I had the privilege of passing legislation funding Minnesota’s own farm to school program this year. This program provides our kids with healthy, locally grown food while teaching them more about where the food comes from. At the same time, it’s another source of revenue for family farmers who make this food in the first place.
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Food and farmers are also on my mind for other, more difficult reasons. Due to the federal government shutdown, almost half a million Minnesotans who depend on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits won’t receive them in November. Unfortunately federal funding for food access has already been reduced and area food shelves are struggling to meet increasing demand.
At the same time, our farmers are facing major challenges as President Trump’s tariffs and other economic policies have hit our agriculture economy hard. Tens of thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, and billions of dollars of exports depend on a strong Ag economy.
I’m hopeful that our federal partners can take a lesson from how our approach here in Minnesota, leave their egos at the door, and put the needs of people first. It’s time to find compromise, whether with our colleagues across the aisle or with our international trading partners, to find a path forward to help Minnesotans.
One of my top priorities for helping Minnesotans in the upcoming session is to address any and all fraud being committed against our state. People are sick and tired of seeing stories in the news about brazen criminals stealing public dollars to line their pockets. It’s time for this to stop.
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I authored the most significant anti-fraud proposal that’s ever passed the Senate, which would’ve created an independent Office of the Inspector General. This new office would be a watchdog ensuring our public dollars are being spent where they should be. It’s the best tool we can use to stop fraud. Despite getting 60 votes in the Senate, it didn’t get done in the House. I think we can change that, and I’ve been meeting regularly with fellow legislators, partners in law enforcement, and state agencies to make sure this happens in 2026.
We have already taken important steps in our fight against fraud. Thanks to our work in 2025, we’ve empowered state agencies to act more quickly when red flags are detected and expanded the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s ability to take on financial crimes. These new tools are already being used, but I will continue to make ending fraud a top priority.
Senator Heather Gustafson represents Centerville, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Gem Lake, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake, White Bear Township, and Birchwood Village in the State Senate. She is Vice Chair of the Senate Education Finance Committee.
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Council gives staff OK to deviate from assessment policy on next street project
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Plans are already underway for next year’s street project in the Bald Eagle Industrial Park. The feasibility project is underway for the project, but City Engineer Mark Erichson wanted to make the City Council aware that there are “some unique circumstances” at play and it might make sense for the council to deviate from its assessment policy.
The roadway reclamation project is proposed to include 130th Street N. (from Highway 61 to Europa Trail N. and from Fenway Boulevard to Europa Trail N.); 140th Street N (from Highway 61 to Fenway Boulevard N.); Fenway Boulevard North (from 130th Street N to 140th Street N); Fenway Boulevard Court N. (from Fenway Boulevard N. to its eastern terminus; 130th Street N.; and Farnham Avenue N. (from 130th Street N. to its southern end). Erichson explained that since there are so many businesses involved, city staff has already been meeting with business owners to discuss the project, construction and assessments.
“The project has been fairly well received,” Erichson noted. “We have some unique situations here where we have questioned how our assessment policy might work.”
City staff is proposing a deviation from the assessment policy for residential properties located on the north side of 130th Street N. between Fenway Boulevard and Europa Trail N., and on the west side of Fenway Boulevard between 140th Street N. and 130th Street N. According to the assessment policy, those properties would generally be assessed at one-half unit for the improvements along 130th Street and Fenway Boulevard, with the remaining one-half unit to be assessed once the internal roads to the properties are improved.
Erichson said since none of these properties have direct access to 130th Street North or Fenway Boulevard, staff is proposing that they are not assessed for this project but instead be fully assessed when their internal streets are improved. “We feel like it makes sense; we will collect the same amount; it will just be in the future when their roadway is being reconstructed.”
Council Member David Strub said he thought that made a lot of sense. “Seems to me the industrial road
is used by the industrial side, so I think it makes sense to give them a pass on this ... I think that is a fair strategy to use. You are not getting anything for free, but you are not paying for something that you are not using,” Strub said.
Mayor Tom Weidt agreed that this approach made a lot of sense, and the city would just have to keep track of who was paying for this project versus a future project. Erichson explained that letters would be sent out to the property owners explaining that the council has decided to deviate from its assessment policy, therefore they would not be assessed for this project, but will be assessed when their street is improved. Ultimately, the council directed city staff to deviate from its policy and move ahead with the project.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
Coordination with rail companies
City staff has been working with BNSF Railway Company and Minnesota Commercial Railway to make accommodations to include a trail crossing over the tracks along the north side of 130th Street. The city of Hugo will be responsible for costs associated with the necessary improvements, which include a 10-foot concrete crossing for the one track, complete with new rail, ties, ballast and fasteners, along with appropriate surfacing to carry the improved trail, installation of a signal bell on top of the mast, flagging services, engineering and inspection. Minnesota Commercial Railway will complete the work.
The agreement includes a $2,500 administrative fee, a $1,000 license fee, and an additional payment of $4,000 for right of way. When that additional payment is made, BNSF will grant an easement for the city to enter the BNSF right-ofway to construct the city’s portion of the improvements and use and maintain the crossing. Minnesota Commercial Railway’s construction costs have yet to be finalized but will be based on its standard rates for such items.
The city will also need to acquire an easement for the trail crossing. Hugo will need to pay a $2,500 processing fee and $5,000 for the easement.
Lastly, the city is working with BNSF and Minnesota Commercial Railway to remove the portion of rail that extends through and terminates at the north side of 140th Street. The rail located within 140th Street is not used or needed. Hugo will be responsible for doing all necessary pavement work once the crossing is removed.
CONTRIBUTED
The 2026 roadway reclamation project is proposed to include 130th Street N.,140th Street N, Fenway Boulevard North, Fenway Boulevard Court N. and Farnham Avenue N.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following calls for service:
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a motorist for DWI at 12:43 a.m. Aug. 31 in the 14000 block of Everton Avenue N. following a traffic stop for poor driving conduct and speeding. On further investigation, the driver was found to be impaired because of alcohol.
• A resident in the 14000 block of Everton Avenue at 12:08 p.m. Aug. 31 reported a disturbing email she had received and asked deputies to reach out to the woman who sent the email and alert her that she doesn’t want any further contact. Deputies advised the complainant to take out a harassment restraining order and spoke to the suspect about leaving the complainant alone. The suspect agreed to stop contacting the complainant and said she, too, would be taking out an HRO against the complainant. Later, however, the original complainant at 10:16 p.m. Aug. 31 reported the previous harasser for sending an email with a smiling emoji on it and nothing else.
• In the Case of the Crossing Cow, a cow was reported in the middle of Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and 157th Street N. at 1:54 p.m. Aug. 31.
• A resident in the 5000 block of 138th Street N. at 2:44 p.m. Aug. 31 reported the neighbors for leaving a note complaining about drum noise and becoming angry when confronted about the note.
• Residents in the 17000 block of Greystone Avenue N. at 9:10 p.m. Aug. 31 reported cash stolen from their house.
• Deputies were dispatched to the Oneka Elementary School soccer fields in the 4000 block of Heritage Parkway at 1:09 a.m. Sept. 1 on a report of juveniles shooting off fireworks. Deputies could not locate any juveniles in the immediate area.
• A spent shotgun shell was reported found at 5:09 p.m. Sept. 1 in the 4000 block of 159th Street N. The complainant wondered whether the found shell could have been related to the fireworks/ gunshot report from earlier that morning. Deputies confirmed that they received a fireworks complaint at the same time the shell finder heard the noise.
• A motorist parked in a handicapped parking space in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. to smoke marijuana was arrested for DWI at 11:52 p.m. Sept. 1.
• A license plate was reported lost from the 12000 block of Foxhill Avenue N. at 4:51 p.m. Sept. 3.
• A suspicious transaction reported at 7:18 p.m. Sept. 3 in the 14000 block of Finale Avenue N. turned out to be a friend stopping by to drop off a package.
• A suspicious parked vehicle reported at 1:30 p.m. Sept. 4 in the 4000 block of Victor Path N. turned out to be parked legally and only in a way the complainant didn’t like.
• In the Case of the Ungracious Groundhog, deputies were called out to the 15000 block of Enfield Avenue N. at 3:57 p.m. Sept. 5 to help get rid of it. Deputies advised the complainant to contact a pest control company.
• A resident in the 15000 block of Jeffrey Avenue N. at
5:46 p.m. Sept. 5 reported people trespassing on his property, as seen on video surveillance. Deputies located the trespassers on the scene and asked the complainant what he wanted done with them. The complainant gave the trespassers permission to leave.
• Residents in the 6000 block of 145th Circle N. at 6:10 p.m. Sept. 5 reported a small rock thrown through a window on an unknown date. Deputies determined that no crime had occurred and was likely an accident — perhaps a rock thrown by a passing gravel truck.
• A motorist was cited at 12:09 a.m. Sept. 6 on Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for expired registration. A second motorist was cited at 6:23 a.m. Sept. 6 for failing to stop at a stoplight in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N.
• After deputies conducted a traffic stop for speeding at 6:00 a.m. Sept. 6 on Forest Blvd. N. at 140th Street N., the motorist was arrested for DWI.
• A suspicious vehicle reported at 5:55 p.m. Sept. 6 in the 7000 block of 128th Street N. turned out to be a visitor who had the incorrect address.
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies at 2:59 a.m. Sept. 7 arrested an underaged driver for DWI on Highway 61 and 120th Street N., following a traffic stop for poor driving conduct. On contact, deputies observed signs of impairment in the driver.
• A motorist was cited at 6:10 p.m. Sept. 7 in the 9000 block of 122nd Street N. for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for speeding 68 mph in a 55 mph zone. A second motorist was cited at 7:08 p.m. Sept. 7 on 170th Street N. and Jeffrey Avenue N. for speeding 68 mph in a 55 mph zone. A third motorist was cited for speeding at 9:05 p.m. Sept. 7 on 170th Street N. and Henna Avenue N.
• Juveniles were reported at 7:37 p.m. Sept. 7 in the 5000 block of Evergreen Drive N. for going around saying they had been shot. These youths had a history of similar behavior.
• A male was arrested at 9:40 p.m. Sept. 7 on Highway 61 just south of 137th Street N. for his long history of repeated violations after he was pulled over for expired registration. The motorist, who was on record for multiple automobile insurance violations, was true to form and didn’t provide any proof of insurance during this traffic stop, either. His female passenger was also arrested on a felony warrant. The two went to the WCSO jail together.
• Residents in the 9000 block of 140th Street N. at 2:42 a.m. Sept. 8 reported squatters on their property. Deputies advised the complainants on how to handle the matter through civil means.
• A dead deer was reported in a lake near the 8000
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
block of 122nd Street N. at 9:14 a.m. Sept. 8. As deputies had no resources to retrieve the deer, they took the report as information.
• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 10:18 a.m. Sept. 8 for speeding 35 mph in a 30 mph zone on westbound Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol, who clocked a vehicle on radar at 43 mph. The driver was also verbally warned about expired registration.
• Residents in the 15000 block of Finley Avenue N. at 11:50 a.m. Sept. 8 reported an attempted scam in which the scammer called the complainants on their personal phone and claimed to be with their bank’s fraud department. The fraudsters then tried to get the complainants to complete a couple of transactions on Venmo to “verify the fraud.” The complainants spotted the scam before they lost money.
• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 12:18 p.m. Sept. 8 on Egg Lake Road N. and Foxhill Avenue N. for displaying tabs that expired in March, following a traffic stop for speeding. The driver was verbally warned about the speeding. A second motorist was cited at 9:42 p.m. that same evening on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. for hands-free violation.
• Residents in the 9000 block of 140th Street N. at 12:49 p.m. Sept. 8 reported finding a license plate on their property.
• An unwanted person reported at 9:00 p.m. Sept. 8 in the 13000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. turned out to be a volunteer at the property.
• Deputies at 3:26 p.m. Sept. 9 took a call from an irate complainant in the 13000 block of Fenway Blvd. N. who ranted and raved so much that deputies had to interrupt and ask the complainant to slow down and start from the beginning. After deputies began to understand the caller and the situation better, they had to let the person go because WCSO policy would not allow their topics to be discussed, or their questions answered by anyone but a judge.
• Deputies took a call at 4:28 p.m. Sept. 9 from the 4000 block of Education Drive from a woman noticing a squad car parked near her house and wondering whether deputies were looking for her. Deputies let the caller know that they were not looking for her, but if they were they would have knocked on her door or phoned her.
• In the Case of the Playing-in-the-Street Pigs, a resident in the 14000 block of Keystone Avenue N. at 5:18 p.m. Sept. 10 reported a drove of pigs running loose.
• After deputies responded to a report of juveniles ding-dong-ditching in the 5000 block of 131st Street N. at 9:19 p.m. Sept. 10, they caught up to one of the suspected youths and explained to him in no uncertain terms that his behavior needed to stop.
• A handgun was reported stolen at 2:14 p.m. Sept. 12 from a vehicle parked at a business for repairs in the 13000 block of Highway 61.
• Deputies responded to a disorderly conduct report at 5:52 p.m. Sept. 13, where a person confronted a delivery driver in the 4000 block of 162nd Street N. The driver unholstered a legally owned, registered and licensed firearm in self-defense before leaving the area.
Loretta Harding
Forest Lake Police provide update on Highway 61 closure
In the overnight hours of Oct. 26, the Forest Lake Police Department received a 911 call from an individual telling dispatchers to kill him. The individual indicated he was armed, wanted to die and would force officers to kill him. The male was located near the southeast intersection of Highway 61 and 11th Avenue in a wooded swampy area. As a result, Highway 61 was closed for a short period of time.
The male was found to be holding a hammer and refused to comply with commands. A trained negotiator contacted the male; however, the male ceased communication with the negotiator and began walking towards officers with the hammer. He refused to stop or drop the hammer as he advanced. Less-lethal munitions were deployed and resulted in the male dropping his weapon, allowing officers to take him into custody. He was transported to a hospital for care.
Washington County, Chisago County, Wyoming Police and the Minnesota State Patrol also assisted.
Mastering Black Friday shopping FINANCIAL PLANNING
Black Friday is one of the busiest and most profitable shopping days of the entire year. According to DemandSage and National Public Radio, American consumers spent a record $10.8 billion on online Black Friday shopping in 2024. Around $61 billion in total sales (both online and in-person) were made over the Black Friday and Cyber Monday weekend. Consumers can land great deals on the day after Thanksgiving, which means individuals who hone their Black Friday shopping skills can reap considerable rewards. The following tips can help shoppers master Black Friday.
· Set a budget. Even though Black Friday may feature some hard-to-beat deals, it’s wise to determine how much you can afford to spend before you begin shopping. Shopping beyond your means, even if the prices are low, can exact a financial toll.
· Make a list of recipients. Make a list of the people for whom you will be shopping and some ideas of what to give each individual. This will enable you to look out for particular deals on these items.
· Compare prices ahead of time. It’s important to know how much items cost across different retailers before Black Friday arrives to understand their true value. This will enable you to determine if a Black Friday sale really is a bargain or if it’s possible to get a better price at a different
time. Smartphone apps like BuyVia, Shopkick and Shopular let you scan barcodes to compare prices and more.
· Shop online early. NPR says there has been a shift from traditional instore shopping to online platforms for Black Friday. Many deals now begin on Thanksgiving or even earlier and
fall under the Black Friday promotion. Start shopping at home to avoid large crowds and secure limited time deals. In recent years, many retailers have offered more of the same promotions online as they do in stores.
· Be wary of sneaky sales tactics. Some stores will offer “doorbuster” exclusions that highlight slashed prices and utilize marketing tactics like countdown timers to encourage shoppers to purchase items without doing their research. This is when knowing the true value of items can help you spot a deal or inflated prices that were then marked down.
· Limit your stores. If you choose to shop in person on Black Friday, start early in the day and don’t run yourself ragged. If you’re tired, you may not make the best decisions and could end up spending more than your budget allows.
Shopping smart on Black Friday comes down to employing some savvy financial strategies.
Festival foods hosts annual Boo Bash
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Festival Foods in Hugo hosted its annual Boo Bash event Saturday, Oct. 18. The event included trick-or-treating, both inside and outside the store, along with a performance by the Teddy Bear Band, face painting and a coloring contest. Children also received free pumpkins while supplies lasted.
Xcel Energy brings AI-driven wildfire detection to Minnesota
Xcel Energy is bringing the first artificial intelligence-driven wildfire detection cameras to Minnesota, providing quick notifications to first responders of grass and forest fires and helping protect communities, natural resources and power infrastructure.
The company recently announced that Pano AI wildfire detection cameras were recently installed in Mankato and Clear Lake, marking the first two of 38 camera systems planned for areas of higher wildfire risk near the company’s power lines. Pano AI cameras provide 24/7 monitoring that complements Xcel Energy’s existing wildfire mitigation strategies to ensure the grid continues to provide safe and reliable service to homes and businesses.
“Wildfires pose an increasing threat to our communities, our natural resources and, of course, our electric infrastructure,” said Ryan Long, chief legal and compliance officer and president of Xcel Energy–Minnesota, North Dakota & South Dakota. “Introducing this technology allows us to stay ahead of the risk and limit damage from wildfires while keeping the grid safe and reliable.”
Pano AI’s technology combines high-definition cameras, artificial intelligence-driven smoke detection and satellite data integration to continuously scan for smoke. Each camera station — which is attached to a tall, existing structure, such as a cell phone tower — will perform a 360-degree sweep of its surroundings every minute. When a potential fire is detected, human analysts at Pano verify it, and then the system triangulates its location and notifies local fire agencies and dispatch centers.
“As changing weather
conditions create new wildfire risks beyond the West, Xcel Energy is leading the way by putting advanced detection at the center of its wildfire mitigation strategy,” said Arvind Satyam, cofounder and chief commercial officer of Pano AI. “Their decision to deploy Pano’s AI-powered cameras in Minnesota sets the standard for how utilities can strengthen grid resilience while helping to protect people, communities and critical infrastructure.”
Over 1,200 wildfires in Minnesota have been recorded so far this year, impacting nearly 49,000 acres, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Fire departments will have access to the Pano system’s real-time intelligence of the surrounding terrain, including areas that may be hard to monitor using traditional methods, to support a more coordinated response to wildfire threats and shorten response times. In addition to curtailing the spread of the fire, early detection can also improve safety for first responders and reduce the overall cost of fighting fires.
While the Pano AI cameras are new to Minnesota, Xcel Energy already uses them in regions of Colorado and Texas. In June 2024, the cameras detected smoke in Douglas County, Colorado, following a lightning strike. The system quickly identified the presence of a wildfire and alerted firefighters, who responded quickly and contained the fire to just 3 acres.
For more information about Xcel Energy’s wildfire mitigation efforts in the state, visit https://mn.my.xcelenergy. com/s/outage-safety/wildfires/mn-mitigation.
currently installed (green) as well as where they are proposed to be located in the future
Xcel Energy
This map depicts where the Pano AI cameras are
(red). Thirty-eight camera systems are planned for areas of higher wildfire risk near Xcel Energy’s power lines.
Pano AI cameras spot fires early to protect communities, forests and grid.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Xcel Energy recently held a media event to announce the installation of Pano AI cameras and detail how they will benefit communities in areas across the state with elevated fire risk. Speakers (from left) included: Ryan Long, chief legal and compliance officer and president, Xcel Energy – Minnesota, North Dakota & South Dakota; Arvind Satyam, chief commercial officer, Pano AI; Chief Joel Schmidt, Mahtomedi Fire Department; and Michael Lamb, chief delivery officer, Xcel Energy.
CONTRIBUTED
Zephyrs nab 3rd place at state tennis
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
“Great way to cap off a great season,” said coach Nate Tretsven after the Mahtomedi tennis team captured third place in state Class 2A tournament last week.
“We are super proud of the amount of improvement they showed from start to finish.”
The Zephyrs (19-5), who were the No. 1 seed, edged St. Peter 4-3 before Rock Ridge tumbled them 7-0 in the semifinals. They fended off Hill-Murray 5-2 for third place. Rock Ridge (26-1) beat Blake 5-2 for the championship. Action took place at Lifetime Fitness in Bloomington.
Winning against St. Peter were Mallory Langer, Lily Carlson, Alexia Tempelis/Brooke Berg and Ellis Krause/Ellie Driscoll.
Rock Ridge, a co-op based in Virginia, was “very strong,” Tretsven said. “Five of seven matches were close; they just had a little more of an edge.”
Hill-Murray was an exciting finale with five matches going to third-set tie-breakers. The Zephyrs had also
beaten H-M 5-2 in September. “We knew this would be a tougher match than the first time,” Tretsven said.
“Credit to our girls, they handled the pressure very well and we were able to win four out of the five tiebreakers.” The strong rivalry with H-M “fired them back up” after the semifinal loss.
Katherine Smith/Berkley Blaisdell won a marathon tie-breaker 16-14 and finished 14-5 together. Also winning tie-breakers were Tempelis/Berg 1311, Krause/Driscoll 10-7, and Braelyn Skow 10-8. Mallory Langer squeezed out a 1-singles win 7-6 (5), 7-5 against a foe who beat her 6-0, 6-0 earlier. Carlson lost a tie-breaker 10-8. Abby Manger lost 6-1, 6-2. Their individual section champs reached the second round Thursday. In singles, Carlson beat Becker’s Grace Conzemius 6-1, 6-1, then lost to Elizabeth Payne of Holy Angels 6-0, 6-2. In doubles, Smith and Langer beat St. Peter’s Margaux Letts/Natalie Salter 6-3, 6-4, then lost to Hill-Murray’s Sedona Stumpf/Brooke Gabel 6-4, 6-2.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Tanner Dittrich
Centennial Football
October 30, 2025
Tanner Dittrich has returned kickoffs 92 yards for a touchdown against Blaine and 79 yards to set up a touchdown against Hopkins in his only two attempts. The 5-foot-9, 180-pound senior has been a valuable part of the Centennial’s strong defense all season with his tenacious tackle and coverage. He’s notched 36 tackles (leading the team in solos), six pass breakups, and one interception. “Tough kid, great leader,” assessed Coach Mike Diggins.
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Bear girls returning to state x-country
The White Bear Lake girls had three of the top seven runners and placed second at Section 4AAA, advancing to state for the second straight year.
Top three teams were Stillwater with 43, the Bears 54 and Highland Park 60, at Highland Golf Club in St. Paul. The Bears placed first last year. The top two advance to state Saturday at Les Bolstad Golf Course.
Bear sophomore Logan Bailey placed second in 19:33 and eighth-grader
Mabel Nethercut was third in 19:37, trailing Stillwater’s Greta Shockey (19:26). Isla Bloomquist, another eighth-grader, was seventh in 20:24.
Brynn Heinsohn, senior, was 19th (21:28) and sophomore Zoe Diversion 23rd (21:36).
“We’re excited for the opportunity to go back to state and continue to build our team up. I couldn’t be more proud of them,” said coach Audrey Kirschling. “It’s been really encouraging
to see how the team has progressed. They have been phenomenal to work with.”
The Bears placed fourth in the Suburban East meet at Forest Lake. Bailey was third, Nethercut fourth, Bloomquist 21st, Heinsohn 36th and Lucy Miehe 41st. In the Alexandria Meet of Champions, they were 10th of 20 teams with Bailey placing ninth.
Bruce Strand
Zephyrs coast into section football finals
Mahtomedi scored every which-way and defeated Highland Park 62-13 in the Section 4 semifinals Saturday, setting up a rematch with Cretin-Derham Hall for the title at home Friday. The Zephyrs (81) nipped the Raiders (6-3) three games ago 28-27.
Mark Graff opened the scoring with a 66-yard run, then passed to Gavin Bifulk for a 68-yard score. Graff was 4-for-4 for 105 yards, with Bifulk catching three for 88 yards.
The Zephyrs had three TD’s on re-
turns: Jeremiah Haas with an interception, 49 yards, Isaac Opitz on a kickoff, 80 yards, and Cullen Taylor on a fumble recovery, six yards. Jacob Reubish carried six times for 83 yards and two touchdowns. Moseh Mouacheupao and Isaac Opitz also scored on runs. Everett Kirkwood booted eight extra points. Highland Park’s Brandon Jackson carried 22 times for 148 yards and two touchdowns.
Bruce Strand
Cougars pummel Hopkins 48-12 in playoff opener
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Tanner Dittrich returned the opening kickoff 79 yards and the Centennial Cougars never stopped running as they rolled up a 41-0 halftime lead over Hopkins on Friday night, then took the foot off the gas and finished a 48-12 win.
The Cougars (8-1), ranked No. 2 in the state behind Maple Grove, will host Shakopee (6-3) on Friday in the second round of Class 6A state playoffs. Hopkins finished 4-5.
Centennial rushed for 345 yards with 15 guys toting the ball, none with more than five carries. Eight players scored points including placekickers Justin Driver (4for-5) and Keegen Prigge (2-for-2).
Dittrich was tackled at the six and Caleb Melser scored from there — followed rapidly by Calvin Coppersmith’s 44-yard touchdown, a 59yard scoring toss from Isaac Belinske-Strauss to Brett Pullman and a four-yard touchdown by Tobie Serna for a 28-0 lead at the first stop.
They scored on a fumble when Carter Hemming caught a pass from Jack Wiste for 37 yards and a tackler knocked the ball loose, but Tristan Hanson snagged the ball in the end zone.
Serna added a 21-yard touchdown and Carter Radziwill got the last one with a 33-yard gallop. Hopkins (4-5) mounted two scoring drives against the Cougars
The Cougar defense had interceptions by Dittrich and Teagan Mortenson, fumble recoveries by Brandon Boesch and Josh O’Shea, and QB sacks by Boesch, Andrew Person and Lukin Berg.
subs, capped by Tre Moore’s 34-yard pass to Jayden Moore and a 10-yard run by Dylan Caspers. Moore was 19for-32 for 240 yards.
JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Cougar lineman Brandon Boesch smothered Hopkins quarterback Tre Moore. The Cougars had three sacks and four takeaways.
White Bear Lake Country Inn is hiring for a Banquet Captain. For more information contact April at: April1@rudysredeye. com or Call 651-4295393 Ext. 421
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For more information please contact us : Transportation@marinevillageschool.org or check out marinevillageschool.org/careers/
White Bear Country Inn is NOW HIRING a P/T Front Desk Clerk.
Job duties: Checking guests in and out, answering the telephone, and other duties as assigned. Must be fun, friendly, and have great customer service skills. Shifts vary from 7am-3pm and 3pm-11pm. Must be flexible to work both.
Send resumes to Jacqlyn at JSchoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call 651-272-3783
White Bear Country Inn is hiring for a Banquet Captain. For more information contact April at: April1@ rudysredeye. com or Call 651-429-5393 Ext. 421
White Bear Country Inn is NOW HIRING a Weekend Laundry Attendant for Saturdays and Sundays. Start time 10:30am.
Send resumes to Jacqlyn at JSchoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call 651-272-3783
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COUNTY BRIEFS
Sheriff’s Office receives donation from Joshua’s Hope
The Sheriff’s Office received a $6,374 donation from Joshua’s Hope to support the Washington County Drug Task Force. Joshua’s Hope is an organization started by the Greene family, whose family member Joshua died of an accidental fentanyl overdose. The funds will be used to purchase law enforcement equipment for the county’s Drug Task Force.
County Board sets public hearings
The Washington County Board of Commissioners has scheduled three public hearings for Nov. 18 and 25. The board set a public hearing for Nov. 18 to consider revisions to Washington County’s 2026 fee schedule, which establishes fees to be charged for fee-based county services. The fee schedule is
updated annually. By law, the fee schedule can only be adopted after holding a public hearing. The board will consider adopting the fee schedule at its Nov. 25 meeting.
The board set two public hearings for Nov. 25. The first hearing will be to consider the county’s 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). During the public hearing, the board will hear public comments and consider any recommended changes to the draft CIP. Board members will consider adopting the CIP at its Dec. 16 meeting.
The second hearing for Nov. 25 will be to consider an update to the eligibility list associated with the county’s current transportation sales, use and excise tax, including the addition of funding for the development and construction of county road and bridge projects. The board will consider adopting the updated list at its Dec. 16 meeting.
Board approves $1M grant for C.R. 50 and Hwy 61 project
The Washington County Board of Commissioners has approved a $1 million Local Partnership Program grant through the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The grant will be used to fund construction for the County 50 and Trunk Highway 61 improvement project in Forest Lake. The project aims to provide long-term safety improvements, including safe and accessible crossings of Highway 61 for community members and multimodal trail users, improved access and operations for current and future vehicle traffic volumes, and stormwater management from new roadway and trail surfaces. The project is in the preliminary design phase, and construction is anticipated to begin in 2028.
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KEYSTONE PLACE AT LAVELLE FIELDS: From farm fields to family feel
FROM PAGE 1
“My first day working in a senior living building changed my life. I walked in and I realized what I was meant to do. I was hooked, and it hasn’t changed in 20 years,” Currier said. “I liked the idea of opening up a building. I had never had that experience before.”
After about 10 months of operation, Keystone Place achieved full occupancy. The 100-unit building includes 29 independent living apartments, 48 assisted-living apartments and 22 memory care units.
Over the years, Currier says the business has hovered around 97-98% occupancy. However, after the pandemic in 2021, Keystone experienced a dip in occupancy to around 79%, but that has since bounced back.
One of the things the business continues to be challenged with is state regulations.
“The state of Minnesota has definitely stepped up their game, meaning that they require a lot more for the assisted living license with dementia care,” Currier explained. “Our education continues, which is a good thing. The state is looking out for our seniors.”
After the pandemic, infection control practices changed for the business. “We carry a large
CENTERVILLE TIDBITS
emergency supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), food, all kinds of things that weren’t really a strong practice before COVID,” he said.
One thing that has stayed the same over the past decade is the homelike environment.
“It is homey, and all our residents make it feel that way. I’d like to think they are happy and comfortable here,” Currier said.
Keystone Place has approximately 130 staff members who add to what makes the place special, according to Currier.
“Our building is staffed with the correct amount of people and the right kind of people,” he said. “We have so many caring individuals.”
Lino Lakes resident Michelle Larson, former director of community relations, was the first person hired for Keystone. She was hired in May 2015 and recalls working out of the vacant bank near where Aldi is being built, over that summer. Her job was to help inform people about the building that was soon to open in Hugo.
“It was a super fun project to start from the beginning,” Larson said. “The LaValles were instrumental in wanting to have senior community in Hugo so that people who were longtime Hugo residents could stay in their community as
• Equinox Development LLC proposes to build a multiunit townhome development at 7181 21st Avenue and has asked the city to rezone the property from B-2 Commercial to R-3 and to amend the Comprehensive Plan to reflect the rezoning change. A summary publication ordinance is also necessary to reflect the zoning ordinance amendment in the City Code. In separate motions, council voted unanimously (4-0; Council Member David Kubat was absent) to approve all three actions. Following a public hearing, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of the rezoning request and comprehensive plan amendment. Equinox Development plans to build 50 attached rental townhomes on 5.3 acres at 7181 21st Avenue.
• The Minnesota Paid Family Medical Leave program recently passed by the Legislature goes into effect in January 2026. This program is required of all employers within the state. The state requirements offer the option to enroll with the state program or a private provider that meets
the dogs, who did not appear to be in distress. The owner was informed of the complaint.
• An officer took a report of theft from motor vehicle Sept. 8 that occurred in the 7500 block of Norway Lane. The officer investigated and found there was no suspect information available.
• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a phone call fraud report in the 1500 block of Holly Drive. The officer investigated and determined the reporting party was not out any money. No suspects were identified.
• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a delayed report of theft in the 700 block of Apollo Drive from a local business. After investigating, the suspect was mailed a citation for theft.
• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a report of a disorderly male in a parking lot in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers made contact with the male and issued him a citation for disorderly conduct.
• While on patrol Sept. 9, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road and cited the driver for littering.
• While on patrol Sept. 9, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7400 block of 20th Avenue. The male driver was arrested on an outstanding warrant from another agency. The male was transported and booked at jail.
they aged and not have to go to White Bear Lake or to Stillwater.”
Larson retired in 2020 but has continued to fill in here and there when staff go on vacations.
“One of the reasons I’m willing to come back is because it is still just as lovely 10 years later as it was when we opened the doors,” Larson said. “Bill deserves all the credit for that. Bill is an amazing guy. He is honest, loyal and he is always trying to do things for not only the residents, but the families of the residents and the employees.”
Heading into the next decade, Currer hopes the longevity of the ownership and management stays in place and staff and resident morale remain high.
“This ownership group has been second to none. I have worked for a lot of people in my life, and I’ve never worked for a better group of people,” Currier said.
For more information about Keystone Place at LaValle Fields, visit www.keystonesenior.com.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@ presspubs.com.
state requirements. As the state insurance premiums are 0.88% of covered payroll, and a private insurer, ShelterPoint, offers a premium of 0.85%, council elected to apply for private insurance for the city’s paid family and medical leave coverage. Funds to pay for participation in this program will be included in the 2026 budget. “This policy causes me to pause, because it’s required by the state and puts a burden on small business and pushes them out of business,” said Mayor Nancy Golden. “I have concerns about this type of legislation; we live in a small town and have a lot of small businesses.”
under investigation.
• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a report of a runaway female juvenile in the 100 block of Morgan Lane. The juvenile was later located by law enforcement and provided a courtesy transport home.
• The residents at 7206 LaValle Drive and 7208 LaValle Drive will now be able to install drain tile, after council approved encroachment agreements for the two properties. Both landowners have paid their associated fees, and the building official has reviewed and approved their plans. The drain tile in the rear and side yards for both properties are within the city’s right-of-way/drainage and utility easements.
• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a traffic complaint involving a business in a residential neighborhood near the intersection of Highland Drive and Arlo Lane. Officers made contact with the company and advised them of the complaint.
• Observant Centerville citizens visiting Hugo on Nov. 22 might be wondering what the entire Centerville City Council is doing there. They won’t have switched cities — it’s the time of year for the strategic planning meeting, and council scheduled this lengthy meeting for the morning of Nov. 22
• An officer was dispatched Sept. 12 to a gas station in the 7500 block of Lake Drive to check on a female who was acting strangely. The female left the area prior to the officer’s arrival. The officer investigated and determined no apparent crime had been committed.
• An officer are investigating a delayed report of theft Sept. 12 in the 6800 block of Sunrise Drive.
• Officers responded Sept. 13 to a report of a suspicious group of people who were egging a car in the 7700 block of Meadow View Trail. The suspects were not identified, and the vehicle owner was provided with a case number.
in Hugo. That neighboring City Hall was chosen as the venue to take advantage of the larger and different space. A backup date for the strategic planning meeting was scheduled for Dec. 13.
• As it has done every year for a long time, council will meet only during the second week of November (Nov. 13) and December (Dec. 11) and not the fourth week. This practice usually results in long meetings with a work session prior to the meeting, and 2025 will not be an exception.
• In her report, City Administrator Athanasia Lewis provided updates on the construction at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park. The grand opening was held Oct. 25.
• Mark your calendars for Dec. 13, from 3-6 p.m. for Christmas in the Park. Stay tuned for more details.
• Council adjourned to closed executive session, pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13D.05, subd. 3(1), to determine the asking price for real property to potentially to be sold (Block 7 and 1737 Main Street, which are both city-owned properties).
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursday Nov. 13 at City Hall 1880 Main St. Loretta Harding
• Officers and the fire department responded Sept. 13 to a report of a possible explosion that was heard in the 6500 block of Hokah Drive. The area was checked, and no problems were found.
SALE
• An officer responded Sept. 9 to a traffic complaint involving a school bus in the 7700 block of Lake Drive. The bus company was contacted and notified of the complaint.
• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked on a residential street in the 6500 block of Lacasse Drive. Officers made contact with the owners of the vehicle and determined there was no crime.
• Officers were advised Sept. 11 by another law enforcement agency that a Lino Lakes resident made a threat of violence toward a school. The incident was investigated, and a juvenile was arrested in the 400 block of Andall Street.
• An officer responded Sept. 11 to a report of harassment in the 7900 block of Henry Lane. The case is
• Officers responded Sept. 14 to a report of a neighbor dispute in the 200 block of Stallion Lane. Officers spoke with parties involved and arrested an adult male for DWI. The male was booked at jail for second-degree DWI and alcohol content of 0.08 or more within two hours.
• An officer responded Sept. 14 to a report of an attack by an animal in the 7300 block of Leonard Avenue. The victim did not need ambulance assistance. The owner of the animal was issued a citation.
• An officer responded Sept. 14 to a report of a single-vehicle motor crash that occurred near the intersection of 20th Avenue and 80th Street. No injuries were noted, and the vehicle was towed.
CONTRIBUTED
Keystone Place at LaValle Fields staff celebrate the facility’s 10-year anniversary with a party Friday, Oct. 17.
FILE
Cutting the ribbon at the Keystone open house Nov. 12, 2025, from left: Resident Ed Bissonette, Keystone Executive Director Bill Currier, resident Viola Maslowski and Director of Community Relations Michelle Larson.
Upcoming events
Teen Writers Speak: An Open Mic Night for Teens
November 6, 6:00-8:00 PM
White Bear Center for the Arts
Join fellow writers for an open mic night meant for teens to share their latest work, test new ideas, or simply soak in the words around them. Register in advance and let us know if you’d like to read. This event is for teens, but adults are encouraged to attend.
Lori Dokken Presents: "Painting Joni"
November 9 at 2:00 PM
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
A performance of Joni Mitchell's works, featuring Lakeshore’s Steinway piano, will celebrate the poetic lyrics, emotional depth, and groundbreaking style of the iconic folk artist.
Yoga in the Gallery
Tuesdays, November 18-December 16, 12:00-1:15 PM
White Bear Center for the Arts
Step into a sanctuary of tranquility and elevate your midday break with this yoga class in WBCA’s Ford Family Gallery. This session blends mindful, purposeful movement with deep meditative practices, offering a powerful rest for your body during the lunch hour.
“Annie”
November 21-December 14, 2025
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
Join us for this delightful musical about the loveable orphan Annie! Featuring the famous tunes “It’s a Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and “Tomorrow,” this show is the perfect holiday treat for the whole family.
You can find a full list of classes in WBCA’s quarterly printed catalog and online at WhiteBearArts.org/ classes.
Sculpting the self, exploring identity
Some artists find themselves at the potter’s wheel. Others, like Chloe Bischoff, White Bear Center for the Arts’ clay studio assistant, find themselves in Red Wing, playing Clue with four other creatives in a historic tower that once housed writers, painters, and thinkers for decades.
This past September, Chloe embarked on the Anderson Center’s prestigious Early Career Artist Residency, a month-long immersive experience for emerging artists across disciplines. Nestled along the Cannon River in Red Wing, the Anderson Center is known as an oasis of community, giving artists the gift of time and space to dive deep into their practice.
“My time at the Anderson Center was remarkable,” Chloe says. “I’ve never had such an extended period where my only focus was to create art, think deeply, and take in my beautiful surroundings.” The residency brought together five artists from across five different disciplines, sparking long, late-night conversations about craft, creativity, and everything in between.
Chloe approached her residency
with big questions: “What lies at the intersection of autotheory and animism? How can clay act as a mirror, facilitating and enriching the concept of the self? And how has her own relationship with clay informed the way she moves through the world?
Rooted in queer ecology and the surrealist traditions of artists like Remedios Varo, her work at the Anderson Center explored identity as something fluid, entangled, and cocreated with the natural world. The result was a sculptural self-portrait, a two-layered “mask” featuring a sculpted inner face, modeled after Chloe’s own face, peeking through
an abstract outer shell referencing imagery from nature’s architecture, such as skeletal formations, cellular organelles, and fungal growth.
Inspired by Jane Bennett’s concept of vital materialism, which suggests that all matter is inherently alive and energetic, Chloe approaches her artistic practice as a relationship between two entities, not merely shaping or using a lifeless material. Back in the clay wing at WBCA, Chloe brings that same philosophy: “I'm not simply firing kilns, I'm participating in a form of 'synthetic geology' in which I steer the physical and chemical forces that humans have partnered with for thousands of years to create long-lasting and wellloved objects from clay!”
Growing green: Art meets sustainability
This fall, White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA) is turning over a new leaf, literally. Thanks to a grant appropriation from the Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD), WBCA is offering a series of eco-conscious art classes designed to inspire deeper connections to the land, water, and sustainable living.
The idea is to use art as a bridge to nature. Using art as a means for people to connect to nature creates a different access point for education and engagement with the land and water in ways that feel personal, meaningful, and approachable. One of the RCWD’s goals is to work with local organizations and communities to help people better understand and care about water and the environment in real-world ways, and as RCWD’s Outreach and Communications Manager, Kendra Sommerfeld says, “WBCA is a strong partner in that effort.”
introduce conversations around water-conscious living through a creative approach,” says WBCA Creative Director Sara Nephew. “If a handful of people walk away more curious and connected to this place we all share, that feels worthwhile.
In September, a class led by Michelle Bruhn focused on no-dig gardening and Hügelkultur, two kinds of regenerative gardening methods that emphasize soil health and low-impact design. Coming up in December, landscape designer Kyle Manley will lead a Matrix Garden Design session focused on creating resilient, lowmaintenance gardens using native plants tailored to the Upper Midwest.
So, this season, WBCA offered three free events that explore topics like native plants and regenerative gardening practices, each with a creative, hands-on experience, aiming to reach people who might not connect with traditional water quality data or technical reports.
“The Rice Creek Watershed District has helped us to
“This partnership with WBCA is a great example of how we can use art to build connections between people and the water in their own communities,” Kendra says. “It helps make important water issues easier to understand and more relatable to people than other highly technical things like data and graphs.”
By blending art with environmental stewardship, WBCA’s fall programming is planting seeds of change. Showing how creative expression can make environmental awareness more approachable to make a difference, one class at a time.
Courtesy of Chloe Bischoff
1-3. Some young trick-or-treaters get a head start on gathering candy at a Trunk or Treat Oct. 23 hosted by Redeemer Lutheran Church and the White Bear Lake YMCA. The event included a variety of themed trunks, games, music, popcorn and visits from the police and fire department. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications 4-6. Main Street Inc. hosted its annual Candy Crawl event Oct. 25. Trick-or-treaters visited their favorite businesses in downtown White Bear Lake. — Paul Dols, Press Publications 7-8. These Halloween displays were spotted in the Nadeau Acres neighborhood in Lino Lakes. Mary Peterson, Press Publications
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to citizennews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
WEEKLY WAG
Bella Koller from Hugo was among 63 students in the Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences’ Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program who presented at the DPT Class of 2025b Case Report Poster Presentations on Thursday, Sept. 25. These third-year students are the first cohort of the 29-month DPT curriculum, and will complete their degrees in December after their final 10-week clinical education experience. Koller’s presentation was entitled, “Manual Therapy and Therapeutic Exercise for Cervicalgia and Cervicogenic Headaches in a Young Female: A Case Report.”
Hugo resident Sofie Slings, a senior at Liberty Classical Academy in White Bear Lake, has been named a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. This designation means that she scored in the top 3-4% of all test-takers nationwide. Approximately 34,000 Commended Students nationwide are recognized this year for their exceptional academic promise. Commended Students
placed in the top percentage of students who entered the 2026 competition by taking the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).
Gabrealla Koller from Hugo recently earned a Clinical Education Award. Koller is enrolled in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa.
CONTRIBUTED
Rebekah Hagstrom, Liberty Classical Academy’s headmaster and founder, presents a Letter of Commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation to Sofie Slings.
If you are a high-energy person and dog lover, and you are looking for a high-energy running, jogging or walking partner, then you and Thelma will get along wonderfully. Thelma is sweet, gentle and full of love — and she is also full of energy. Thelma is a nine-monthold border collie/American Staffordshire terrier mix. Thelma and her sister Louise, arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas as part of the Lone Star to North Star Rescue Relief Program. Thelma is housetrained, crate-trained and leash-trained. She loves spending time outside with her people and with other dogs. Thelma is social with other dogs, and she is friendly to everyone she meets. She would do best in a home with another friendly, active companion dog that can help satisfy her high energy level.
Thelma is very smart and figures things out quickly. She is eager to please and she would do great in formal training and/or agility training courses. If you are interested in learning more about Thelma 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.
STUDENT NEWS