The Citizen

Santawith AN INTERVIEW

Santa Claus is very busy getting ready for Christmas, but he recently took some time out of his busy schedule to sit down with Press Publications and provide a little insight into how the Christmas magic happens.

Q: What do you eat before the big night?

A: I eat whatever Mrs. Claus cooks for me! But I get hungry on my rounds, so I eat the cookies and snacks the children leave for me.

Q: How do you stay up all night on Christmas Eve while you’re delivering presents?

A: Lots of Christmas music, hot cocoa and warm cookies!

Q: How many hours of sleep do you get before you ride out on your sleigh?

A: Sleep? What’s that?

Q: Why do you fly in a sleigh and not in an airplane?

A: I need my sleigh, which is pulled by my nine reindeer, including Rudolph. Airplanes don’t work with reindeer.

Q: What’s your favorite kind of cookie?

A: All of the cookies!

Q: Do you always wear your suit?

A: I wear my special suit when I’m delivering presents around the world. I don’t wear my suit in the workshop; it’s too hard to keep clean!

Q: How do you tell the elves apart?

A: Have you ever tried herding cats? I don’t tell tell the elves anything, except “Get back to work!”

Q: How do you fit all the toys in one bag?

A: I use a VERY BIG bag!

Hugo lowers tax rate

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

HUGO — For 2023, the City Council has decided it will deviate from its norm of a flat tax rate.

A flat tax rate means that the city tax collected increases when property values increase, but decreases when property values decrease.

Finance Director Anna Wobse explained that the median homestead taxable value for 2023 in Washington County is $379,300, which represents a 20% or $64,700, increase. Because of that sizeable increase, the council directed city staff to lower the 2023 tax rate to 36.274%, the rate used for taxes payable in 2019, as opposed to maintaining a flat tax rate.

If the council decided to keep a flat tax rate (39.403%) in place, the certified property tax levy for 2023 would be $11,856,074, a 21.13% increase over 2022, instead of $10,988,874, which represents a 13.59% increase over 2022.

So how does Hugo’s tax rate compare to other cities within Washington County? The cities of Stillwater (49.267%), Oak Park Heights (46.988%) and Oakdale (38.375%) have all proposed higher 2023 tax rates than the city of Hugo, whereas

Council will consider Oneka Prairie preliminary plat

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

HUGO — The City Council will evaluate the city’s next possible residential development Dec. 19. Southwind Holdings LLC has applied for a preliminary plat and planned unit development (PUD) general plan for a residential development to be known as Oneka Prairie. The property, located at the end of Oneka Parkway, totals 24.23 acres, or 20.28 buildable acres. The preliminary plat includes 59 single-family residential lots and seven outlots. The proposed density of 2.9 units per acre meets the city’s density requirements.

The Planning Commission and City Council reviewed a sketch plan for Oneka Prairie, also

Santa was invited to attend an event called Paws and Planes. The organization aims to get young children interested in aviation while helping to spread awareness of dogs and cats in shelters who need adoption. Although he can only deliver presents with his sleigh, Santa enjoyed trying out a Piper Decathlon airplane.

the cities of Forest Lake (35.604%), Mahtomedi (34.380%), Woodbury (28.506%) and Scandia (26.235%) have all proposed a lower tax rate.

The 2024 general fund budget has been set at $8,685,899, which represents a $1,338,716 increase over 2022. Wobse explained some of the contributing factors:

• New positions, step increases, payroll taxes and a 4.5% cost of living adjustment (COLA).

• Planned increases for the fire department retention program and the establishment of a full-time fire chief position (salary and benefits).

• I ncreased operating expenses for Lions Volunteer Park.

• Website updates and software updates for room rentals and planning application tracking.

• I nflation, which impacts the cost of supplies the city purchases, including road salt, fuel for city trucks, office supplies, and other items.

Wobse said it’s important to keep in mind that the city of Hugo is one of only 110 (among the 853 incorporated cities in Minnesota) that do not receive local government aid (LGA). Wobse said the reason Hugo likely doesn’t receive LGA is because the city’s tax rate is lower than the statewide average, and Hugo has the ability to pay for its needs without state assistance. Because the city doesn’t receive LGA, 92% of

the general fund budget comes from property taxes.

It’s also important for residents to keep in mind, she noted, that there are several other taxing entities that also impact Hugo residents’ property taxes. These include four different school districts, three different watershed districts, Washington County, the Metropolitan Council, the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, the Washington County Community Development Agency (CDA) and the Washington County Regional Railroad Authority (WCRRA).

“Budgeting is always a difficult discussion and decision to make. We don’t take it lightly, taking money from citizens’ pockets to pay for the cost of running a city,” said Hugo Mayor Tom Weidt. “I think we deliver good value for what we do. We have a great staff, good services, good police department (and) fantastic fire department, and we deliver good parks and recreation amenities and facilities.”

Hugo resident Rick Bieniek, who lives within the Waters Edge development, was the only person to speak during the budget public hearing. He had one question for the council, “Where does our tax money go when it goes to the city?” He said he pays $3,100 to his homeowners association every year, money that takes care of many things (i.e., grounds maintenance, snow removal) that the city doesn’t have to take care of.

“You are getting a large sum of money from our community, and we don’t really see much from the city as far as things go,” he said.

Council Member Becky Petryk responded, “We pay for police protection, fire protection, water and drainage systems, roads outside of your community. Every other single-family home has those same services. I don’t think that your particular community is any different than the rest of us as far as services that you have or that you lack.”

Council Member Phil Klein added that the city has a wide variety of trails and parks, including the new Lions Volunteer Park, that all residents can use. “It is not just your area that you pay for, all of us pay for it. All of us have seen our taxes increase along with everybody else’s,” Klein said. “That’s what provides us the amenities that we want and need, and that’s what makes our community a great place to live.”

Weidt warned that once market values start to go back down, the city will need to figure out “where and who to take money away from and what services to cut.

“We go up and down with the values,” he said.

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

PHJOTOS

This chart shows what effect keeping a flat

rate versus the lower tax rate would have on a median valued homestead.

COPS&COURTS

HUGO POLICE REPORTS

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

• A resident in the 4000 block of Victor Path N. at 1:43 p.m. Oct. 30 reported funds stolen from a Roth IRA.

• A n enclosed trailer containing three snowmobiles was reported stolen from the 14000 block of Ferrara Avenue N. at 5:40 a.m. Oct. 31.

• M any items were reported stolen from a vehicle in the 4000 block of Evergreen Drive N. at 7:01 a.m. Oct. 31. The missing inventory included a laptop computer in a laptop bag with an Apple Airtag inside. The Airtag tracked to the 1000 block of Rose Street in St. Paul. When St. Paul police checked that address, they could not locate the stolen property.

• A motorist was likely cited, or maybe even arrested, at 4:59 p.m. Oct. 31 in the area of Highway 61 at Frenchman Road for any or all of the following violations: failure to provide proof of insurance, speeding and possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia in a motor vehicle, following a traffic stop for speeding and the subsequent vehicle search.

• A M innesota motorist was cited for driving after revocation, failure to register a motor vehicle in a timely manner and failure to provide proof of insurance following a traffic stop at 10:12 p.m. Oct. 31 in the area of Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. for tabs that expired in August.

Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies were scratching their heads wondering why the driver admitted to being the owner of the vehicle and identified himself verbally, though no record of the vehicle could be found in the system. The driver also admitted to not having insurance. When deputies got to the bottom of it all, they discovered the driver was revoked.

• Deputies issued a verbal warning to a driver for failing to maintain a lane and possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia in a motor vehicle, following a traffic stop at 11:30 p.m. Nov. 1 in the area of Finale Avenue N. and 141st Street N. for the driving conduct. During the stop, deputies detected the odor of pot and searched the vehicle. The search yielded a small plastic container with a green leafy substance, small grinder and scale, which were confiscated to be destroyed.

• A door of a pickup truck was reported pried open at 7:16 a.m. Nov. 2 in the 5000 block of 140th Street N. Although the steering mechanism was damaged, nothing appeared to have been taken from the vehicle.

• A M innesota motorist was cited at 8:15 a.m. Nov. 2 on eastbound 170th Street N. and Ingersoll Avenue N. for speeding 68 mph in a 55 mph zone by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol, who clocked the vehicle on radar. Another motorist

COUNTY BRIEFS

County board appoints assessor

Lisa Young has been appointed the Washington County Assessor. Her term begins this month and ends Dec. 31, 2024. Under state law, every county has a county assessor appointed by its county board of commissioners. The appointment must also be approved by the state Commissioner of Revenue.

Former Assessor Bruce Munneke retired Dec. 2. Young has been part of the Washington County Assessor’s Office since 2020 as the property appraiser residential supervisor. Prior to this role, she was the city assessor for the city of St. Cloud. She also held appraiser positions at Washington County and Redwood County. Young has a bachelor’s degree in real estate and her senior accredited Minnesota assessor license (SAMA).

County purchases land for northern environmental center

The Washington County Board of Commissioners has agreed to pay $699,000 for land in the southeast quadrant of Highway 61

was cited at 9:32 a.m. Nov. 2 on westbound Freeland Avenue N. and Oneka Lake Blvd. N. for speeding 43 mph in a 30 mph zone by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol in their marked squad, who clocked the vehicle on radar.

A westbound motorist was cited at 9:07 a.m. Nov. 3 on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. for speeding 40 mph in a 30 mph zone by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol in their marked squad, who clocked the vehicle on radar.

• A business in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 11:22 a.m. Nov. 3 reported a person for passing counterfeit money. At 12:20 p.m. Nov. 3, a report of counterfeit money came in from the 14000 block of Fitzgerald Avenue N.

• A vehicle parked in the area of Farnham Avenue N. and French Drive N. was cited at 5:42 p.m. Nov. 3 for displaying registration that expired in September. The vehicle handled the entire transaction by itself, as the citation was placed under its wiper.

• A motorist was arrested for undisclosed offenses at 6:45 p.m. Nov. 3 in the area of Frenchman Road and Everton Avenue N. following a traffic stop for expired license registration. Meanwhile, more motorists were arrested on warrants and for having uninsured vehicles at 2:04 a.m. Nov. 4 in the area of Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 9:47 p.m. Nov. 4 in the area of Forest Blvd. N. and 147th Street N. for driving after revocation, following a traffic stop for lack of rear plate lights. During the stop, deputies discovered the registered owner of the vehicle in the passenger seat and the person behind the wheel with only a paper ID. Although the driver immediately admitted to being revoked, a computer check revealed a long history of failing to appear in court to pay fines. A valid driver took over behind the wheel at the conclusion of the stop.

• D eputies issued another citation at 1:55 a.m. Nov. 5 in the area of 140th Street N. and Forest Blvd. N. for driving after revocation.

• A male of undisclosed identity was arrested at 5:08 p.m. Nov. 5 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. following a traffic stop for no blinker usage and evading behavior. At the outset of the traffic stop, the passenger tried to hide in the vehicle. When deputies spotted him, they recognized him as a male trespassed from a property and detained him. Deputies also spotted drug paraphernalia in plain view and searched the vehicle, only to discover more suspected narcotics and vehicle plates belonging to another vehicle.

Loretta Harding

Hugo man sentenced on felony drug charges

Braddy Romaine Rhoden, 52, of Hugo, has been convicted on third-degree drugs charges and sentenced to 57 months in prison. According to the criminal complaint, on March 29, 2021, officers on routine patrol stopped Rhoden’s vehicle after noticing a cracked taillight and what appeared to be a phone mounted to the windshield of the car playing a video. Officers also learned there was a warrant out for Rhoden’s arrest and he had no driver’s license.

Per the complaint, Rhoden admitted to having a cracked taillight and no license. As officers spoke with him, they could smell marijuana coming from the car. Officers observed marijuana sprinkled throughout the floor of the car, a torch lighter, and a tooter straw commonly used to snort drugs. Officers found 3.55 grams of a leafy substance that field-tested positive for marijuana in his front pants pocket.

Officers searched the car and found a digital scale as well as substances in various locations that field-tested positive for various drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine. In total, officers found 5.52 grams of cocaine and 4.82 grams of methamphetamine in the vehicle. Defendant admitted to using methamphetamine in the past, but denied knowing the drugs were in the car.

In addition to Rhodes’ 57-month sentence, he will also have to pay a $137 fine with surcharge and fees.

Sheriff’s Office receives AEDs

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will receive 87 automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) from the Center of Resuscitation Medicine at the University of Minnesota. The center has been working on resuscitation efforts in Minnesota for almost a decade, and primarily works on clinical and research projects that will improve outcomes from sudden cardiac arrest.

Starting in December, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will work in conjunction with the center to receive 87 AEDs at no cost to the county. The project is designed to outfit every county squad car patrolling Washington County roadways with this new lifesaving equipment. Instructor training on the new devices also will be provided for all of the deputies. Each AED is valued at $3,000.

and 202nd Street in Forest Lake to build a northern environmental center across from the Forest Lake Service Center. The 10.5acre site will support the county’s plans for a northern household hazardous waste and yard debris environmental center.

Washington County has been planning for such a site in the northern portion of the county. The county worked with the city of Forest Lake in connection with this environmental center and the city’s future public works facility. The property for purchase is adjacent to existing city of Forest Lake property and is on the market. Washington County will use proceeds from the county environmental charge to pay for the purchase.

County board provides 2023 budget overview

Commissioners recently conducted a public budget meeting to provide an overview of the proposed 2023 budget and levy for the county. The preliminary levies are:

$ 126.5 million for the county net levy

• $ 660,000 for the Regional Railroad Authority levy

• $ 1.2 million for the Land and Water Legacy Program referendum levy

• $ 5.9 million levy for the Community Development Agency

Under the proposed budget, the county net levy would increase by 4.88% over 2022, and nonlevy revenue would be $113.2 million, a decrease of 14.9% from 2022. The preliminary levy, combined with new construction and the rising valuations, results in a decrease in the county’s tax rate of 14.5%.

As in nearly all counties in Minnesota, property owners in Washington County have experienced increased property values from the rise in sales prices, especially for residential properties. The median value of a home in the county went up by about 20% in the past assessment year. Should the proposed budget and levy be approved, the medianvalued home in the county ($386,500) would be taxed $919 for 2023 by the county, a $40 or 4.6% increase over 2022.

The county board was expected to vote on a final budget and levy for 2023 at its Dec. 13 meeting, after press deadline. Visit www. co.washington.mn.us./budget for more information on the budget.

Year end giving

This is the time of year to support our local community organizations, if you can. Our own communities have community foundations, churches, food shelves, arts and theatre organizations, and many other nonprofits that are based right here. Many nonprofits outside our communities do good work, too, but it is those right here that help in sustaining the local economypaying wages to local people and rent on buildings while they are helping our neighbors. When you’re at the checkout line of our local stores, look for opportunities to round up for a local cause, make a donation, or purchase an extra item to donate. Making a cash donation directly to your favorite local organization is even better. Often nonprofits can leverage their purchasing power so your monetary donation goes even further than donating items. Donating non-perishable food items to the food shelf is great, but know that if you give through their website or send a check, they will use your money to buy even more of what they need.

Some organizations, like community foundations, can accept unusual donations such as property, boats and stocks. Staff can be a helpful with setting up a donor-advised fund that carries out your desired plans for giving. What is so unique about a community foundation is that you can designate your annual giving to specific programs, or you can choose to give across the spectrum of organizations and initiatives that have the most pressing needs. Donations can be leveraged to fund major projects. Staff and board members will work with you to help you determine what kind of impact you want to make. There are also tax advantages. Look into our local community foundations – the Shoreview Community Foundation, Vadnais Heights Community Foundation, Greater White Bear Lake Area Community Foundation, and the St. Croix Valley Foundation are a few.

More than ever our local organizations need support. During the pandemic the staff were often overworked and are now catching up from the past few years. Many have seen donations slip or move in the wrong direction. One reason may be that people have paid more for gas, groceries and other goods, and they simply don’t have as much to give this year. It also could be caused from less or ineffective communication with the public.

Many organizations have dropped newsletters communications and relied on social media and websites to stay in touch with supporters, which can be an expensive, tricky process to make work. The internet is intent-driven, which means most people don’t take the initiative to visit a nonprofits website or social media page unless they have a reason to.

Donors lose sight of organizations that do not communicate on a regular basis.

We hope our print and digital readers can keep an eye on local needs, from making donations or volunteering in any capacity where the need is. Keeping your gifts of time, money and talents local makes a difference.

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Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

A more diverse work force helps agency and community

representation up to 21%. With two additional current vacancies we may be able to increase this percentage.

Cops Corner

Pat Aldrich

According to the most recent census, women make up over 50% of the United States population. In law enforcement, across the US, the population of female police officers is much lower at approximately 13%. There is a trend in law enforcement, in which agencies are striving to have a more diverse representation of police officers, to match the demographics of the communities in which they serve. The 30 x 30 Initiative is a program, which focuses on advancing the number of women in policing by 30% by the year 2030.

We here at the Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) are trying to do our part. In the past month, we were fortunate to hire two new female police officers. Ashley Koivisto and Danielle Wressell have accepted police officer positions with our agency and have recently started their field training process. With the addition of these two energetic and motivated officers, along with Corporal Katy Mannin, we now have a total of three licensed female officers. In a department of 14 currently sworn officers, this brings our female officer

Officer Koivisto comes to us from the Federal Reserve Bank where she worked as a sworn officer. She was a part of the marksmanship team where she has excelled as a firearms technician. She has completed a four-year degree in criminology and sociology, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in forensic psychology. Koivisto enjoys outdoor activities and playing guitar. When asked about her joining the CLPD, she said she is “super excited to be here and looks forward to meeting everyone.”

Officer Wressell has come to us from the MSP where she has over six years of experience as a dispatcher and a commercial vehicle inspector. Her husband, who was a former CLPD community service officer, is currently a sergeant with the MSP. Wressell has received numerous awards and recognition for her performance within the MSP. She enjoys spending time with her family and pets, partakes in a wide variety of outdoor activities and she also volunteers as a missionary. Wressell stated she could not be happier to start the next chapter of her life with the CLPD.

When asked about her experience as a female police

THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES

officer, Corporal Mannin believes female officers have the opportunity to bring characteristics to the profession, which are vastly different than her male counterparts.

Female officers “generally have a less intimidating demeanor, offer softer tones and possess a motherly nurturing aspect,” which may lead to fewer confrontations when involved in adverse scenarios. Corporal Mannin does not see the job as being more challenging for women. But the job could be difficult for anyone, male or female, if they are not in good physical condition. She feels if female applicants were able to see agencies such as ours, strengthening ranks with more female officers, it may be more attractive to applicants to apply.

Having a more diverse work force not only helps our agency, but the community as a whole. Having both “brothers and sisters” working together strengthens the family-like culture we are trying to maintain here at the CLPD. We strive to hire all of our officers with character like we have with Ashley and Danielle. Our goal is to fill our ranks with people, male or female, who will help accentuate this culture and improve our department.

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

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Pat Aldrich is the Captain of the Centennial Lakes Police Department.

Publisher’s View

Carter Johnson

The Christmas season is a season of waiting. Waiting to open our presents. Waiting to finally eat the Christmas goodies we made or bought.

Waiting to see family and friends. Waiting for some days off work or school.

Pastor Ponderings

Tim Heinecke

BUSINESS BRIEF

Waiting for that last-minute package to hopefully arrive in time.

Waiting means we are looking forward to something.

Psalm 27:14 says, “Wait upon the LORD, be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”

For many years, God’s people were waiting for the Messiah (Jesus) to be born. On the very first Christmas, the wait was over. Jesus was born and came to save us! Even though this happened over 2,000 years ago, we are also waiting.

As we celebrate Christmas, we celebrate Jesus coming to save us. We are also waiting for Him to return. We are waiting for when He will show up again. Except for this time, it will be big and obvious and everyone will know. When Jesus shows up again, the wait will be over

CITY BRIEF

and everything will be perfect forever! Having Jesus in our lives make Christmas so much more special and makes the wait worth it. Merry Christmas!

If you are looking for a church home to celebrate with this Christmas, we invite you to join us! On Christmas Eve, we have a 7:00 p.m. Candlelight Service. We will also have a separate Christmas morning service at 9:00 a.m. For more information, check us out online at www. newlifehugo.org.

Tim Heinecke is the pastor at New Life Lutheran Church in Hugo.

Maplewood Mall heading to auction block in February

A longtime destination for shoppers in the area will soon be for sale. The Maplewood Mall, located at 3 001 White Bear Ave. N. in St. Paul, will be up for an online auction through RI-Marketplace starting at 11 a.m. Feb. 13 and going until 1 p.m. Feb. 15, 2023. The bidding will start at $7.5 million. The auction is an opportunity for a local or regional owner to buy a shopping center that includes nationally known tenants such as Barnes & Noble, H&M and Shoe Dept. Anchor tenants include JCPenney, Kohl’s and Macy’s. The two-floor, 321,217-square-foot mall was built in 1974 and renovated in 2018. To learn more, visit rimarketplace.com and search for Maplewood Mall.

Lino Lakes requests speed study on Birch Street

The city of Lino Lakes has submitted a request to Anoka County to conduct a speed study on Birch Street (CSAH 34) between Hodgson Road and Old Birch Street. The study will be funded by county State Aid funds.

In 2021, Anoka County, in partnership with the city of Lino Lakes, reconstructed Birch Street from Hokah Drive to Birch Court. Two new roundabouts were installed on Birch Street: one at Tomahawk Trail and the other at West Shadow Lake Drive. This segment of Birch Street is currently posted with a speed limit of 50 mph. Recognizing that the geometric characteristics along this segment of Birch Street have changed, county staff recommends a speed study be performed to properly analyze and determine a safe and efficient speed limit.

Spiced is a cuddly, affectionate sweetheart who will melt in your lap while she melts your heart. She’s a 3-year-old Australian cattle dog/ blue heeler/German shepherd mix who arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from Texas, where she was found as a stray.

Despite her long journey to the north, she is enjoying her new life and is anxiously waiting a forever home and family who will return the love she gives. Spiced weighs just under 30 pounds, is super smart and trains very well. She knows her basic commands and is eager to please. She has a lot of energy and would fit in well with a family who enjoys walks during all seasons.

She is still a bit reactive to other dogs, so she would do best in

COMMUNITY BRIEF

a home as an only pet. Spiced would also do well in a home with a fenced yard where she can run and explore and expel her energy. If you are interested in learning more about Spiced 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.

Meet new friends in 2023

North Suburban Neighbors Club, a nonprofit friendship organization for women in the northern suburbs, invites prospective members to a coffee event at 10 a.m. Jan. 12 at the Shoreview Community Center-Fireside Lounge.

NSNC provides opportunities for members to become acquainted with others in the community through friendship, goodwill and fun. Activities include coffees, eating out, programs and events, book club, movies, community service and more. Learn more about North Suburban Neighbors Club Group on Facebook or call or text Ellen at 651-2479601.

T he Shoreview Community Center is located at 4580 Victoria St. N.

Hugo Zoning Map to Medium Density Multi-Family Residential (R-5) with respect to the property legally described as part of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 17, Township 31N, Range 21W. (Full legal available at City Hall)

Section 2. Effective Date. This amendment shall take effect upon its passage.

ADOPTED BY THE HUGO CITY COUNCIL ON NOVEMBER 7, 2022

Tom Weidt, Mayor

ATTEST:

Michele Lindau, City Clerk

Published one time in The Citizen on December 15, 2022.

CITY OF HUGO HUGO CITY COUNCIL

SPECIAL MEETINGS NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Hugo City Council has rescheduled their January 2, 2023, meeting to Monday, January 9, 2023, due to the New Year’s Holiday and cancelled their meeting on January 16, 2023, due to the Martin Luther King Holiday.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Hugo City Council has scheduled a workshop with the Hugo Fire Department for Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at 7 p.m., at Hugo City Hall.

Published one time in The Citizen on December 15, 2022.

Get ready to brave the cold for the 2022 Christmas Bird Count

JACKI BUSSJAEGER STAFF WRITER

A pair of binoculars, an ID guide, a nd a healthy sense of adventure are all it takes to become a citizen scientist in this year’s Audubon Christmas Bird Count.

This century-old tradition will take place in regions across the U.S. and internationally between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5, including several locations in the Twin Cities area.

On count day, groups of volunteers, organized by a count coordinator, will divide their count area—a circle with a 15-mile radius—into several routes. From dawn until afternoon, and sometimes later, count volunteers will travel these routes with eyes and ears highly tuned for the appearance of their winged quarry.

Volunteers identify and tally every individual bird they observe. It takes some practice with bird identification, but most groups include experienced birders. The CBC is a great opportunity for new birders to gain experience and confidence in bird identification, and perhaps form a new holiday tradition.

Ornithologist Frank Chapman, an early member of the Audubon Society, was the first to suggest a holiday bird census in the year 1900. Previously, many households took part in a Christmas side hunt, which consisted of killing birds for entertainment during holiday gatherings. Chapman’s suggestion redirected the hunt into

what has become the longest-running citizen science project in history.

“Christmas Bird Counts have some scientific validity, but they’re mostly recreational,” said Jim Howitz, who coordinates the St. Paul Northeast Suburban and Cedar Creek Bog counts. “People really like doing them, finding the odd species or two, and there’s a good deal of competition to see who can get the most species.”

The data collected by CBC counters in the last 122 years has added to the understanding of population trends over the decades, giving scientists an idea of how the world of birds is changing.

Although many birds have already flown south, counting birds in the winter has a lot of advantages. It minimizes identification mistakes, since there are fewer species likely

to be present, and provides a good baseline to compare against previous seasons’ data. Leafless trees and shrubs also make it much easier to spot the animals in question.

Weather patterns have a lot to do with the success of the count. This is a La Niña year, which means winter conditions are likely to be colder and harsher. Waterfowl that rely on pockets of open water may be forced to move from their usual locations this year.

Some of the most reliable spots to find winter waterfowl are coal-

IF YOU GO:

St. Paul North: Dec 17

Minneapolis North: Dec. 17

Wild River: Dec. 17

Cedar Creek Bog: Dec. 18

St. Paul Northeast Suburban: Dec. 31

reaches of Canada—such as evening grosbeaks, gray jays, and crossbills— don’t show up as often.

Humans are partly to blame. We have dramatically altered the landscape over time, making it more appealing to some species and inhospitable to others.

“Cardinals used to be very rare; now they’re everywhere,” Howitz said. “They nest in bushes and use feeders, which lots of people have in their yards. Ruffed grouse are much harder to find, and a lot of the open country species like horned larks and snow buntings aren’t in the fields anymore. The real winners in the long term are species that can tolerate humans.”

Some count volunteers stay at home and observe the species they see in their yards and at their feeders during the day of the count. Anyone who lives within a count circle can participate this way, and Howitz encouraged people to look at the map on the Audubon website to see if their residence falls within a count circle. For the best accuracy, home feeder watchers should count only the maximum number of a species as they can see at one time. They can submit their observations to a count coordinator to be included in the final tally.

powered electric plants, such as the Xcel Energy plant in Bayport, which happens to fall within the Northeast Suburban count circle. This is one of several electric plants that will be making the switch from coal to renewable energy sources, eliminating the need for the warmed water that keeps a section of the St. Croix River open all winter. Howitz expects this will affect the count numbers for waterfowl species in the future.

However, the gradual creep of climate change may also open up river waters farther and farther north over time. Soon there may be new havens for waterfowl that prefer to stay in the north to avoid hunting seasons in southern regions.

Bird count data has shown that species seem to be shifting their ranges northward over time. Wild turkeys, northern cardinals and tufted titmice were once highly unusual, but are becoming a common sight in Minnesota backyards. Meanwhile, the birds that once wintered here from the northern

To participate in the Audubon Christmas Bird Count or learn more, contact your local count organizer. Find contact information and a full map of count locations at www. audubon.org/conservation/joinchristmas-bird-count. Happy birding!

P HOTOS BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The tufted titmouse, a relative of the black-capped chickadee, may become more common in coming years as its range shifts northward.

Winter is a good time to spot northern species such as snowy owls, which seek out open farm fields that resemble their tundra habitat.

Trumpeter swans are common in areas of open water, such as fast-flowing segments of the St. Croix River.

AUDUBON.ORG | CONTRIBUTED

A map of local Christmas Bird Count circles in the Twin Cities area.

ONGOING EVENTS

HISTORIC COURTHOUSE GUIDED TOURS

When: 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, through Jan. 31

Where: Washington County Historic Courthouse, Pine and Third Streets, Stillwater

Details: Short introductory video followed by a tour of the courtroom, 1900s county jail, and exhibitions. Hear stories of the building’s construction and the people who worked there. Free; donations accepted.

Contact: 651-275-7075 or co.washington. mn.us/hc

WATER STREET INN’S WINTER RIVERSIDE ICE SKATING RINK

When: 8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily through February

Where: Water Street Inn, 101 Water St. S.

Details: Free skating for all ages in downtown Stillwater. Bring your own skates. Schedule subject to change Contact: 651-439-6000 or discoverstillwater.com

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursdays Dec. 15 & 29; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

SHOREVIEW INDOOR FARMERS

MARKET

When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20

Where: Shoreview Community Center fireside lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N. Details: More than 30 vendors with produce and food items, artisan crafts, entertainment and activities. Contact: shoreviewcommunitycenter. com

DROP-IN 55+ FITNESS CLASSES

When: 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays

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

Details: Free fitness classes for Hugoarea adults 55+ by Live 2B Healthy. Class designed for seniors to help improve balance, strength, and flexibility in a group setting. Periodic fitness tests so participants can track their progress.

HUGO BITS & PIECES

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

‘HOLIDAY INN’

When: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Dec. 24

Where: The Zephyr Theatre, 601 N. Main St., Stillwater

Details: Irving Berlin’s classic musical on stage. Reserved seating; tickets $25-$45. Cash bar. Contact: stillwaterzephyrtheatre.org

SANTA’S

TRAIN SHOP

When: First three weekends in December

Where: Minnesota Transportation Museum, Jackson Street Roundhouse, 193 Pennsylvania Ave., St. Paul

Details: Music, vendors, games, snacks, caboose rides and Santa. Reservations required.

Contact: trainride.org

HOLIDAY CHEER DRIVE-THRU

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15

Where: The Waters of White Bear Lake, 3820 Hoffman Rd.

Details: Take a photo with the Grinch, see the holiday lights, enjoy hot chocolate and take home a giveaway. Free community event.

Contact: 651-313-6440 or thewaters.com

TEEN HOLIDAY CARD DRIVE

When: 4-5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 Where: Shoreview Library,4560 Victoria St. N.

Details: Teens can create cards to be donated to

‘THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE’

When: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16; 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17; 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18

Where: Lakes International Language Academy (LILA), 19850 Fenway Ave. N., Forest Lake

Details: Dramatization of C.S. Lewis’ classic performed by actors from Children’s Performing Arts. Contact: 651-336-8613 or childrensperformingartsmn.org

WINTER FEST

When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17 Where: Downtown White Bear Lake Details: Strolling carolers, Santa, ice sculptures, and horse-drawn carriage rides (free with food donation). Also specials at shops and restaurants. Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

2022 CHS ALUMNI BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

When: Saturday, Dec. 17 Where: Centennial High School, 4757 North Rd., Circle Pines Details: First Annual 3v3 basketball tournament hosted by CHS Basketball teams, Alumni Association, and Chain of Lakes Rotary Club. Coed divisions; register by team or individual by Dec. 3. Free general admission, concessions, and merchandise.

Contact: caefoundation. org/3v3alumbasketball

WINTER RECREATION SAMPLER

When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18 Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Sample a variety of winbter activities including kick sledding and snowshoeing, and lern how to dress for cold weather. $7/adult; $5/child; registration required. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18 Where: Sitzer Park, 4344 Hodgson Rd., Shoreview Details: Hike paved and unpaved trails in the park. Contact: stpaulhike.com

WINTER SOLSTICE BONFIRE

When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20 Where: Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields, 15601 Hudson Rd. N, Lakeland Details: Roaring bonfire, guided night hikes with a naturalist, and cookies and hot cider in a warming tent. The Mac and Cheese Band will play at 7 p.m. $10 per car. Contact: 651-436-5189 or belwin.org

WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21

Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes Details: Celebrate the longest night of the year with self-guided luminary hike, songs and stories around the fire, art project, and hot mulled cider. $6/person; registration required. Ages 12+.

Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

‘A CHRISTMASTIDE HOMECOMING’

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22 and Friday, Dec. 23

Where: Marine Village Hall, 121 Judd St., Marine on St. Croix

Details: Holiday concert with Billy McLaughlin and SimpleGifts. Tickets $45/adult; $20/student general

admission. $5 more at the door. Contact: simplegiftsmusic.net.

STRATEGY GAME BUFFET

When: 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28

Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St.

Details: Learn and play the latest multi-player tabletop strategy games, imcluding card and board games. Grades 4-8; no registration required. Contact: 651-724-6007 or rclreads.org

LUNCH AND TABLE GAMES

When: noon Wednesday, Dec. 28

Where: Christ the Servant Lutheran Church, 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights

Details: Bring a bag lunch and play table games with friends. Coffee provided.

Contact: 651-204-6000 or cityvadnaisheights.com/seniors

INTRODUCTION TO CROSS COUNTRY

SKIING

When: 2-4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30 Where: Chomonix Golf Course. 700 Aqua Ln., Lino Lakes Details: Entry level skiing class covers basics of Nordic skiing and time on the trail. Ages 10+; equipment provided. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com

CURRENT EVENTS

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’

When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 18.

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Holiday favorite performed by Lakeshore Players Theatre. Tickets $10-$30. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

HOMETOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

When: through Dec. 31

Where: Downtown Stillwater Details: Free family events happening every weekend through Dec. kick-off with Black Friday shopping deals at downtown shops and restaurants; also include Wintertime in Stillwater Lights Show, costumed Victorian carolers, caroling Biercycle tours, holiday tea events, horse-drawn wagon rides, photos with Santa, New Years Eve ball drop, and more. See schedule and details online.

Contact: DiscoverStillwater.com/ events

• Scott Arcand has been appointed to serve as an alternate on the Planning Commission. Arcand served on the commission from July 2009 to December 2021. In May 2021, Arcand agreed to be an interim member on the commission until vacancies were filled. Vacancies have now been filled, so he has agreed to remain as an alternate member on the commission.

• T here will be six licensed refuse haulers in the city for 2023. Per ordinance, seven haulers are allowed. Haulers include: Gene’s Disposal, Maroney’s Sanitation Inc., Ace Solid Waste Management, Walters Recycling and Refuge, Republic Services and Waste Management (Blaine). SRC Inc. (dba Forest Lake Sanitation) was sold to Waste Management and will no longer be hauling in Hugo.

• •Blacksmith Lounge, Wild Wings of Oneka, On the Rocks Wine/Spirits, Blue Heron Grill, Festival Foods, Kwik Trip, Red’s Savoy Pizza, Hugo American Legion, Oneka Ridge Golf Course and Sal’s Angus Grill have all received their liquor and tobacco licenses for 2023.

• Polling places have been set for 2023. They include the Hugo Fire Station, City Hall, Lions Volunteer Park/Peder Pedersen Pavilion, New Life Church, the new public works building and Rice Lake Centre (located at the old public works building).

• T he city will send a letter of support to Ramsey County for an upcoming improvement project involving the I-35E/County Road J interchange. Scheduled for construction in 2025, the project would add Interstate ramps to the north side of the interchange and make improvements to County Road J and Centerville Road. Ramsey County intends to use the letter of support for its Corridors of Commerce grant request.

• T he city has finished its payments for the CSAH 8 stormwater reuse project. The final payment of $17,771 has been made to Peterson Companies Inc.

• T he budget and tax levy has been set for 2023. (See full story on pages 1 & 2.)

• T he council has scheduled a workshop for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, to discuss staffing needs within the Hugo Fire Department. A main part of the discussion will be whether to have a full-time fire chief, an item that has been worked into the 2023 budget.

• B ecause of the New Years and Martin Luther King Day holidays, the council will have only one meeting in January — 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

The best way to get insight into your local community:

Cougar girl skaters extend win streak to seven Cougar icemen tie Class A champ Hermantown

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Centennial/Spring Lake Park extended its win streak to seven last week by defeating Anoka 5-0 there Tuesday and Mounds View/Irondale 4-2 on Thursday at home.

T he Cougars are 7-1 and ranked No. 8 in Class 2A, losing only to No. 5 Maple Grove 2-0 in their opener.

Scoring against Anoka (1-4-1) were Katie Ball, Noelle Hemr (twice), Ella O’Hearn, and Lauren O’Hara. Jaycee Chatelain made two assists. Kaitlin Groess made 15 saves for the shutout.

C SP fell behind MVI (2-6-1) in the first period 2-0 as Sarah Johnson and Lauren Ballinger each got one past goalie Anna Peterson, who stopped everything after that and finished with 17 saves.

The Cougars quickly pulled even with goals from Sophie Shimabukuro and Chatelain, the latter on power play with :04 left in the period. O’Hara broke the 2-2 tie at 6:58 of the third period. Grace Laager made it 4-2 at 14:57. O’Hara and Hannah Thompson each assisted on two goals.

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake is 5-1 after two conference victories last week. The Bears enjoyed stellar balance in beating Mounds View 70-51 as Jordyn Schmittdiel netted 14 points, Heidi Barber 12, Blessing Adebisi 11, Sarah Poepard nine, Cami Bachmeier eight, Addison Post seven, and Abby O’Brien seven. The Bears clipped Park (0-3) 50-41, powered by Schmittdiel with 21 points. Post added nine points and Barber eight.

NORDIC SKI

White Bear Lake opened with a conference meet at Battle Creek. The boys and girls teams both placed sixth of seven teams. Top placement was sophomore Andrew Klier, sixth in boys freestyle. “Several skiers missed the race or were unable to ski at full capacity, due to still recovering from respiratory illnesses,” coach Doug Cran said. “As they get stronger, I expect they will move themselves and their respective teams further up the ranks.” It’s a young squad with just four seniors, boys captain Ian Ottavianni and girls captains Megan Ryan, Madie Bystrom, and Mhaveorgan Grund.

WRESTLING

White Bear Lake lost to Stillwater 63-13 and Wayzata 69-9 in a triangular at Stillwater. Against Stillwater, the Bears (3-5) had decisions by Christian Carlson (major) at 126 and Gabe Kessel at 132 plus a forfeit. Against Wayzata, Carlson won a decision and Ryan Kinde pinned his man at 285. The Bears also competed at Brainerd’s Lumberjack Invitational, placing 14th. Carlson placed fourth at 126, Kessek seventh at 132 and Jackson Haiko seventh at 182.

GYMNASTICS

White Bear Lake lost their dual meet opener to Forest Lake, 130.825 to 123.55, with a lineup shorthanded due to illnesses. Addy Mueller placed second all-around with 32.25 and Josie Mlejnek was third with 30.975. Both are sophomores. Mueller was second on beam (8.275) and third on bars (7.7) and floor (7.875). Rachel Profitt was third on vault (8.50).

GIRLS HOCKEY

White Bear Lake picked up its second win, over Cretin-Derham Hall 4-1, and lost to Hastings 2-0. The Bears are 2-6. Against CDH

Will Underwood, back in action for Mahtomedi basketball after missing a season with a knee injury, led the Zephyrs to a 2-0 start. The 6-foot-4 senior guard delivered 25 points and 11 rebounds in a 90-62 win over Columbia Heights, and followed with a 29-point burst in a 74-67 win over Stewartville clinching that win with six free shots in the last two minutes. Underwood scored 24 points per game as a sophomore. A knee injury in the football opener erased his entire junior year of athletics. He passed up football this year.

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Centennial came within eight seconds of beating Class 1A’s top-ranked Hermantown and wound up tying the Hawks 3-3 at home Saturday. The Cougars (3-2-1) also beat Blaine 9-0 last week.

Against Hermantown, the Cougars were outshot 45-20 but got 42 saves from junior goalie Gavin Schahn, including nine in overtime.

“It was a great game vs. Hermantown, with way too many penalties by our guys,” coach Ritch Menne said. “The whole team played extremely hard. Schahn made some terrific saves. He is our rock, and bails us out on a regular basis.”

With two goals by Peyton Blair and one by Palmer LeMay, the Cougars led 3-1 after two periods.

George Peterson scored for

(1-6), the Bears broke a 1-1 tie in the third period on goals by Lily Howard, Hailey Dawe and Grace Bailey (empty net). Talia Domschot scored in the first period. Maya Marston made 28 saves. The Bears outshot Hastings (65) by 42-34 but could not get one past junior goalie Bree Balster. Makayla Berquist had both goals against Marston, who made 32 stops.

SWIMMING

White Bear Lake opened the season at the Suburban East Conference Relays against four other teams in Stillwater. The Bears’ top finish was second place in the 400 freestyle with Benedict Hoefer, Calvin Weier, Jacob Pierce and Amarre Zalazar in 3:49.52. The Bears placed fourth in three other relays. Stillwater won seven of the nine events.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Missing its star player, White Bear Lake lost to Eagan 46-44, their lone game of the opening week. Senior guard Jack Janicki, their scoring leader for three years, is likely to

Hermantown (2-0) on a power play at 7:57 of the third period. The Hawks pulled even at 16:52 on a goal by Joshua Kauppinenen, off what Menne described as a bad bounce that put the puck in good position.

The Hawks outshot the Cougars 9-3 in the overtime but the score stood.

“Our guys did a terrific job of matching Hermantown's speed and skill,” Menne said. “It proved that we can play with anyone in the state.”

Hermantown captured its third state title last season and has qualified for state 18 times. They were added to Centennial’s schedule this year.

T he Cougars beat Blaine 9-0 on Tuesday as Blair and Brock Carls each scored twice, and Caleb Krinkle, Heath Nelson, Harper Searles, LeMay and Alex Clampitt once each. Easton Cody made 13 saves in the shutout.

miss a month with a shoulder injury suffered late in the AAU season. Jeremy Kolb scored 20 points, Jack Misgen 10 and Wyatt Hawks seven for the Bears. Hawks made a steal with six seconds left but the Bears weren’t able to get a clean shot attempt.

BOYS SOCCER

Four White Bear Lake players made the all-Suburban East Conference list — senior defender Eli Treichel, senior defender Teagan Giese, senior mid Ryan Dufresne and junior goalie Kyle Christensen. Treichel was named team MVP. Honorable mentions went to senior forward Charlie Olsen, junior mid Eli Simanek, sophomore mid Ben Watson and senior mid Porter Drost. Top scorers were Olsen (eight goals, two assists) and Dufresne (five goals, three assists). Christensen had an .845 save percentage and 1.16 goals-againstaverage. Other team awards went to freshman mid Gionni Pescosolido (rookie), junior forward Evan Boxrud (most Improved) and Dufresne (BEAR award). The Bears were 8-6-2 overall and 4-4-1 in conference.

Strong first week for No. 4 Mahtomedi cagers

The Mahtomedi Zephyrs, ranked No. 4 in Class 3A boys basketball, made an impressive showing in the opening week, beating Columbia Heights and Stewartville, the latter at the huge Breakdown Tip-Off Classic.

“We had really good focus against two quality opponents,” coach Keith Newman said. “Our guys enjoy competing. It was fun playing in an event that brings many good teams to the same place. Breakdown runs a very good day of basketball for fans and players.”

T hirteen players scored for the Zephyrs in a 90-62 conquest of No. 11 Columbia Heights. Will Underwood logged 25 points and 11 rebounds. Owen Carlson had 24 points, eight

steals, eight rebounds and seven assists. “We forced them into many live ball turnovers that led directly to baskets for us,” Newman said.

T he Zephyrs fended off No. 7 Stewartville 74-67 at the Breakdown in Hopkins. Underwood sank 29 points, including 4-for-8 on three’s, and cashed six straight free shots to help the Zephyrs pull away at the end. Cole Armitage sank 16 points. Carlson notched 14 points, four assists and four steals. Javon Harvey added 10 points. Defensive pressure, led by AJ McCleery (four steals), led to 24 Stewartville turnovers. For the Tigers (1-1), Henry Tschetter tallied 21 points and Caleb Bancroft 16 points.

JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED Lauren O’Hara unleashed a shot against Mounds View/Irondale.

Christmas in Centerville

PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The Centerville Lions and the Centennial Fire District teamed up to host Christmas in the Park at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park in Centerville. Over 500 people attended the event, which included photos with Santa, a bonfire, horse carriage rides and more.

for the horse carriage rides, children kept busy by building a snowman. Next up in Centerville will be the annual Skate/Sled Night from 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 14 also at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park.

Letters to Santa

Alex, 7 years old

Barbies Ken doll Puzzles Mermaids

Bunny Fashion Fidget Doll

Stuffed Animals

Children’s Science Museum

Basketball Stickie Earrings

Weighted Blanket

I love you Santa Clause. You are amazing and nice.

Unicorn Chapter Book and some pop its and a stuff animal and a gift card to target.

From Cora, I am 7 years old Thank you Santa

Dear Santa, I would like Batman imaginex and lego train set.

Love, Jakob, age 6

must be so hard to visit all the children in the world in one night. Also my dad is the best dad in the whole word.

Thank you! Love, Maverick

—

Dear Mrs Claus and Santa,

I have been good this year. May I have some presients?

Remote Control Snake

Hot Wheels Monster Truck Tiger Shark RC

Gumball Machine Maker How are you doing?

Thanks, Silas Age 6

Dear Santa, My Name is Hayden. I have been a very good girl. I promise to try harder in school next year. I would like a Hello Kitty Computer and Pillow. I would like a Hello Kitty makeup set.

—

To Mrs. Claus and Santa, I have been good every day. Please can I have some presents.

Toy cash register

Lego City Farmer Market Van

Otter Care & Nuture Set

Do you have any kids? Are you a real person?

Thank you, Sylvie Age 4

—

Dear Santa, My names is Maverick. I have been a very good boy. I promise to be nicer to my sister next year. I would like a remote control snowmobile for Christmas. I also like electric bikes and scooters.

Thank you for all you do! It

Love Hayden

Dear Santa, I hope Santa brings me a gel blaster any gel blaster. I hope Santa brings legos. I hope Santa brings me more monopoly games and more game boards.

Please don’t forget to give stuff to the home less.

Zavier

Dear Santa, I want a Barbie house, tablet and horse.

I love you Santa.

Love Izzy 5 ½

—

Dear Santa, I would like a pink toy and a snack.

And a puffy thing that goes up in the air!

Happy Christmas! Love! Joy!

Love, June - 3 years

Dear Santa, I would like a tablit. I would like anather pupy.

Love Sloaney -- 6 ½

Dear Santa, I want a Sonic 2 set, 200 toy dogs and one T-Rex toy dinosaur. Can I see you someday?

Love, Lewis 4 ½

Dear Santa, I’d like a remote control car please.

I’d like a soccer cleats and Mbappe Jersey too. And I would love a cure for cancer for my mom.

Love Lachlan – Age 7

Dear Santa, will you come to my house? This year I would like clothes for my doll please Say hi to Rudolph for me

Love, Caroline

THE FOLLOWING LETTERS TO SANTA CAME FROM KIDS UNDER CONSTRUCTION PRE-

SCHOOL IN WBL

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have VERY good this year! I have done these nice things:

1. I play with Charlie! 2. I help Mom with dishes! 3. I color!

My Christmas wishes are: 1. a jet ski 2. a sonic lego set 3. blocks

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Hunter – 5 years old —

working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Josie – 4 years old

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have VERY good this year! I have done these nice things:

1. I wash dishes!

2. I put dishes away for Mom!

3. I play with all my friends at school!

My Christmas wishes are: 1. a jet ski

2. a jet pack

3. art supplies

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Emmett – 4 years old

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have VERY good this year! I have done these nice things:

1. I wash dishes!

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have VERY good this year! I have done these nice things:

1. I play with my little brother!

2. I play with my dog!

3. I play with my friends at school!

My Christmas wishes are: 1. brush markers

2. a toy Santa 3. light up shoes (like I had when I was little!)

Thank you and the elves for

2. I play with my sister!

3. I play with my brother!

My Christmas wishes are: 1. walkie-talkies

2. a unicorn toy

3. a candy cane

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Amelia – 5 years old

Dear Santa,

I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and

For: Santa Love, Eileen

hope milk! years old have you and have done Mom! friends at for hope milk! years old have you and have done for hope milk! years old have you and

the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have VERY good this year! I have done these nice things:

1. I help Mommy and Daddy with chores!

2. I’m super good at school!

3. I help friends at school!

My Christmas wishes are:

1. a watch

2. makeup 3. ice cream maker

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Rose – 4 years old

Dear Santa,

I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have VERY good this year! I have done these nice things:

1. I play with my baby!

2. I play with Roland!

3. I help clean the bathroom!

My Christmas wishes are:

1. a BIG shark, monster truck. A really, really big one!

2. lego Ninjago

3. an army castle

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Brekken – 4 years old

Dear Santa,

I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I cleaned my room.

2. I helped my brother.

3. I cleaned up the couch with my dad.

My Christmas wishes are:

1. A stuffed animal

2. A pet fish

3. A toy dog

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Payton

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Cleo

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I help Mom and Dad! 2. I play with my brothers! 3. I share with my friends!

My Christmas wishes are:

1. a police set

2. a nerf gun and armor set 3. another batman tower

My Christmas wishes are: 1. Dinosaurs

2. Baby Yoda 3. Pikachu

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Atticus – 4 years old

Dear Santa,

I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I share my toys with Will.

2. I like to do the dishes.

3. I cleaned my mom’s mirror.

My Christmas wishes are:

1. A stuffed doll that has wings.

2. A unicorn toy that has wings.

3. Squishmallows

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Harlie – 5 years old

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I like to help mommy with the laundry.

2. I like to clean my room at my daddy’s house.

3. I like to color pictures for mommy and daddy.

My Christmas wishes are:

1. Toy puppy dog

2. Minnie Mouse kitchen

3. A mermaid Barbie doll

1. Sharing my toys

2. Helping other people learn

3. Playing nicely with others

My Christmas wishes are:

1. Ice cream Playdoh machine

2. Legos – Giant Legos

3. Transformers

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Samuel

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. Made cards

2. Played with my sisters 3. Cleaned my room

My Christmas wishes are: 1. Paw Patrol toy 2. Robot – that cleans my room 3. Stuffed animal

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Eileen

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Ben – 4 years old

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I help Mom and Dad!

2. I bake with my Mom!

3. I’m a really good friend at school!

My Christmas wishes are:

1. a Stuffy

2. Barbies

3. Dolls

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Vivihn – 5 years old

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I play with my friends!

2. I listen to Mommy!

3. I play with kitty!

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I play with my sister!

2. I share my toys!

3. I do chores with Mom and Dad! My Christmas wishes are: 1. Surprise me, Santa!

Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Wesley – 5 years old

Dear Santa, I hope you are doing well! I have been thinking a lot about you and the elves at the North Pole!

I want you to know that I have been VERY good this year! I have done these nice things?

1. I share with friends!

2. I tell the teacher when friends are kind!

3. I play with my sister!

My Christmas wishes are: 1. Dinosaurs

2. Monster trucks

3. New puppy! Thank you and the elves for working so hard this year! I hope you enjoy the cookies and milk!

Love, Henry – 5 years old

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Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m., Friday, December 16, 2022.

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known as the Drake Property, over the summer.

City Planner Rachel Juba explained that the developer is requesting some flexibility when it comes to lot sizes, lot widths, front setbacks, sideyard setbacks and right-of-way widths. She added that several developments, including Oneka Place, Clearwater Cove and Adelaide Landing, requested such flexibility and received approval.

“PUD does allow some flexibility,” Juba said. “In exchange for enhanced flexibility, the city has an expectation that the development plan will result in a higher-quality and more sensitive proposal than would have been the case with the use of other, more standard zoning districts.”

In exchange for the flexibility, the developer proposes a public park that exceeds requirements; a landscaping plan that exceeds requirements; and a stormwater reuse system for irrigation within the development.

“Staff believes that the layout of the proposed Oneka Prairie PUD general plan exceeds the city’s standards for residential development,” Juba said. “It is staff’s opinion that the Oneka Prairie PUD general plan has offered a creative and efficient method to planning the site, all which meets the intent of the PUD ordinance.”

Trevor Oliver, an attorney representing property owners Lee Ann and Glenn Steffens, had three requests for the Planning Commission: the developer be required to extend Oneka Parkway all the way to 165th Street (instead of the proposed north property line of the proposed development); the developer be required to stub roads and utilities to the properties on the west; and that designs for the Oneka Parkway extension be aligned as far east as possible.

“I think it is a mistake to stop building this road at the northern lines of the houses,” he said.

Lee Ann Steffens explained that

the extension of Oneka Parkway would create access issues to their property. “Right now, with the proposed design of the parkway, we do not have access to utilize our property … This provides us with an income that will be taken away,” she said. “We

must align today’s use and today’s need with utilizing that resource, but doing it in a fair way that does not then impose a hardship upon the neighbors who are on the west.”

Juba explained that requiring Oneka Parkway to be extended all the way to 165th Street would funnel a lot of traffic from a collector road onto a gravel road that is not equipped to handle all of that traffic. She added that it would make more sense to connect Oneka Parkway as the properties develop and a portion of 165th Street, or the street in its entirety, is paved.

As the properties develop to the west, Juba said the city would evaluate the right-of-way needs. There is a possibility they wouldn’t need the full 100-foot easement, but she noted that the city does like to maintain buffers along trails so trails are not right on property lines. She said that the developer will provide utility stubs to properties to the west, but not necessarily stubbed streets.

“As far as I know, developers have always had to pay for their own development projects. I don’t see any reason why our developer would have to pay for stubbed roads going off to the west on the other side of Oneka Parkway. If that becomes developed at some point, to me, that developer would have to pay for those stubs,” Planning Commission Member Cindy Petty said.

Ultimately, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the preliminary plant and PUD general plan to the City Council. The council is scheduled to consider both items at its meeting Dec.19.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist

are

Frank Watson

Santa stopped by Lions Volunteer Park in Hugo for a tree lighting ceremony outside of the Peder Pedersen Pavilion. Carolers from Children’s Performing Arts stopped by to sing some Christmas carols before lighting the large tree in front of the building.

PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM

Keystone Place at LaValle Fields and Good Life Senior Living, both in Hugo, recently hosted a cornhole tournament for their residents. The winner from each facility earned bragging rights and a trophy.

REAL ID deadline pushed back again: Here’s what to know

requirement; however, a financial document can only count as one of the two types.

“An applicant might bring a credit card statement and a debit card statement, but we can only accept one. That’s important. You could do a utility bill and a bank statement, that would be sufficient. We just can’t take two financials, and it happens pretty frequently,” Binman said.

Also, if an applicant uses an insurance document, it must be the policy or declarations page; it cannot be the billing or auto-renewal page. Documents proving an applicant’s identity and Social Security number must also be updated to account for any legal name changes that person might have had.

DOCUMENTS NEEDED

To apply for a REAL ID driver’s license, the following documents are needed:

• One document proving identity, date of birth and legal presence in the United States. If the name on the identity document is not the same as a person’s current name, a name change document must be submitted.

BY THE NUMBERS

BY RANDY PAULSON STAFF WRITER

Minnesotans who aren’t yet Real ID ready have an extra 24 months before enforcement starts.

A standard driver’s license won’t be enough for adults in Minnesota who need to board domestic flights or enter some federal buildings starting May 7, 2025.

That’s when the newly updated nationwide enforcement date will be for the REAL ID Act of 2005. The law established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards when used as a form of ID for the following purposes:

• Accessing certain federal facilities.

• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.

• Entering nuclear power plants. To do those activities, Minnesotans will need to do one of the following: get a REAL ID driver’s license or identification card; get an enhanced driver’s license or identification card; or use another form of federally approved identification.

A REAL ID driver’s license has a gold star in its top-right corner, while an enhanced ID has the words “Enhanced driver’s license” printed in red lettering in the top-right corner. An enhanced ID also has a U.S. flag next to the license holder’s photo.

An enhanced driver’s license or ID card has the same features as its REAL ID counterpart, though it also allows for re-entry to the United States at its land borders or seaports when returning from Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean.

Examples of other federally approved ID include the following documents:

• U.S. passport or passport card.

• Foreign government-issued passport.

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766).

• Permanent resident card.

• Border crossing card.

• Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID.

• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents. Minnesota began offering the REAL ID and enhanced ID driver’s licenses on Oct. 1, 2018. The nationwide REAL ID enforcement deadline has been pushed back multiple times since the law was first passed. The coronavirus pandemic caused the U.S. Department

of Homeland Security to change the deadline from Oct. 1, 2020, to Oct. 1, 2021. The ongoing pandemic again delayed the enforcement date to May 7, 2025, according to a Department of Homeland Security news release published Dec. 5. The previous deadline was May 2023.

“Many driver’s licensing agencies, including Minnesota offices, operated at limited capacity in 2021. During that time, DVS launched the online preverification tool at drive.mn.gov to assist customers and make office visits more efficient,” said Beckey Mechtel, public information officer for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

Miken Binman, the license bureau supervisor for the city of White Bear Lake, said it’s important for people to know that the aforementioned types of federal ID can also be used instead of the REAL ID or enhanced ID driver’s licenses.

“It ultimately comes down to personal preference,” Binman said.

“Some people want their standard driver’s license, and they’ll use a passport book or card. Other people will apply for that REAL ID; others will apply for the enhanced driver’s license or ID.”

Mechtel said her department encourages Minnesotans to use online tools to help decide which type of ID is right for them. One tool is simply called “Help Me Choose.”

Like Mechtel, Binman advised those wishing to apply for or renew a driver’s license or ID card to preapply on the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services website.

Doing so lets applicants input their information and answer the required questions before they schedule an in-person visit to a license center. They also can upload clear, high-quality images of documents proving their identity and proof of residency, though they must still bring the original, physical copies to the license center.

“Preapproval allows you to receive your license in seven to 14 business days versus the four to six weeks that everyone just walking up would have. So scanning your documents and receiving preapproval speeds up the process significantly,” Binman said.

She shared a few common mistakes she and her office staff have seen license applicants make when getting REAL IDs.

For instance, applicants must provide two types of documents showing proof of residency. There are several acceptable types of documents for that

• One document proving Social Security number. If an applicant hasn’t updated their name change with the Social Security Administration, they must do so before applying for a Real ID.

• T wo different documents proving current residency in Minnesota. These must have the applicant’s name as used at print and current address in the state. A P.O. Box will not suffice. For applicants younger than 18, one proof of residency document may be provided by a parent or guardian if it has the same address as the document provided. The parent or guardian

must also be present in the office to confirm the applicant lives with them at the given address.

To apply for an enhanced ID driver’s license, documentation for the following is needed:

• P roof of date of birth.

P roof of full legal name. This must be a document separate from a document showing proof of photographic identity.

• P roof of Social Security number.

• P roof of photographic identity. This must be a document separate from a document showing proof of full legal name.

• P roof of U.S. citizenship.

• P roof of Minnesota residency. These must be two separate types of documents that have the applicant’s existing name and address.

A full list of acceptable types of documentation to apply for REAL ID and enhanced ID can be found on the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services website: drive. mn.gov.