CONTRIBUTED
City of Hugo’s tax levy to increase by 5.6% for 2026
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Perhaps one of the most surprising stats in the 2026 budget presentation is that the city of Hugo’s taxable market value has increased by 6% from 2025 — and now amounts to $3,118,677,000.
In 2025, the city of Hugo lost over $85 million in taxable market value due to decreases in property values and changes in the Homestead Market Value Exclusion Program.
City Finance Director Anna Wobse explained that of that 6% increase for 2026, 4% is for existing properties and 2% is from new construction.
The city has historically implemented a flat tax rate policy, meaning that the city tax collected increases when property values increase, but decreases when property values decrease. In both 2023 and 2024, the city chose to deviate from that rate to allow for a decrease in the urban tax rate when properties were seeing larger value increases. In 2025, the city reverted to the flat tax rate policy, which it will once again implement for taxes payable 2026.
The general fund budget for 2026 has been set at $10,868,790, which represents a $749,500 increase from 2025. Wobse said factors that contributed to the increase included cost-of-living adjustments, salary matrix adjustments/ step increases, inflation, the 2050 Comprehensive Plan update, a new roadway reclamite program and new software that will be needed for the city’s finance/ planning/ building departments. (Reclamite is a maltene-based asphalt rejuvenator that prolongs pavement life.)
SEE HUGO BUDGET, PAGE 13
Volunteers kick off Salvation Army Kettle
BY MADELINE DOLBY QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS EDITOR
The sound of a ringing bell and the sight of a red kettle are familiar signs that the holiday season has arrived. Each year, Salvation Army volunteers take to street corners and storefronts to collect donations that support local families in need.
“This is something we tend to do every November and December. It’s a great way for us to be out in the community, to be visible. The red kettle is super
iconic, because it’s been around for so long,” said Sophie Crowell, divisional volunteer relations director (Northern Division) for the Salvation Army. She noted that the red kettle is unique to North America, although the Salvation Army is worldwide.
The campaign started in San Francisco in 1891 when Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee collected coins in a soup kettle to fund a Christmas dinner for the area’s poor. This year, the Red Kettle Campaign will last through Christmas Day. There are 260 locations across the
north metro that are participating in this year’s campaign. Funds raised during the campaign stay in the local community. Crowell said donations from the campaign goes “under the umbrella of food, shelter and care.”
“Whatever someone’s needs are, if they need to visit the food shelf, we’re able to purchase food at an affordable break from our partners so that we can provide as much food to as many households as we can.
SEE RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN,
CONTRIBUTED
The Salvation Army will host its Red Kettle Campaign through Christmas Eve, Dec. 24.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12: 45 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, 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.
Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com
CRIBBAGE
When: 12:45 p.m. Dec. 22 and the 1st and 4th Monday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th St. N., Hugo Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-429-4413
CURRENT EVENTS
PREVENTING FRAUD AND SCAMS
When: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11
Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake
Details: Learn how to detect and report fraud and scams, especially those targeted to seniors and keep personal information safe in a presentation from Minnesota Aging Pathways. Coffee at 9:30 a.m.
Contact: 651-777-1107
SECRET HOLIDAY SHOP AT THE ROOKERY
When: 4:15-7:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12
Where: The Rookery Activity Center, 7690 Village Drive, Lino Lakes
Details: Opportunity for kids of all ages to do holiday shopping for their family and friends without their parents. Volunteers will assist children in selecting from a variety of gifts for purchase. Parents can purchase tickets and create a shopping list with their children upon arrival.
Contact: 651-982-2468
WHITE BEAR LAKE WINTER MARKET
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13
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
BIRD HIKE
When: 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13
Where: Pine Point Regional Park, 11900 Norell Ave. N., Stillwater
POLITICAL BRIEF
Jim DeMay announces candidacy for Minnesota House of Representatives
Mounds View School Board
Member Jim DeMay has declared his candidacy to represent District 36A in the Minnesota House of Representatives. The district includes the communities of Lino Lakes, Centerville, Circle Pines, North Oaks and White Bear Township.
“Working families are struggling to make ends meet. We need to rise to the challenge of provid-
Details: Complete bird count surveys with a guide. Contact: washingtoncountymn.gov/2174/Bird-Hikes
WHITE BEAR LAKE WINTERFEST
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Dec.13
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake
Details: Santa visits, horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, ice sculptures, and shopping and dining downtown.
Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com
FESTIVAL OF TREES OPEN HOUSE
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec.13
Where: White Bear Lake Aromory, 2228 4th St.
Details: See more than 30 trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. Photos with Santa, cookes, cocoa and holiday activities. Festival of Trees is also open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, until Dec. 20.
Contact: whitebearhistory.org
ELVES WORKSHOP HOLIDAY SHOPPING
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13
Where: White Bear Lake Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave.
Details: Join local Girl Scout Troops and the Senior Center Craft Corner for a day of shopping for gifts, homemade decorations and ornaments, and baked goods. Visits with Santa from 11 a.m.-noon.
Contact: isd624.org
NATIVITY WALK AND CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
When: 11:a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 14
Where: South Shore Trinity Church, 2480 South Shore Blvd., White Bear Lake
Details: A unique collection of several nativities from Corcordia College in display. Christmas festival includes bingo, indoor mini golf, games, kid crafts and light refreshments. Free event for all ages.
Contact: sstwbl.org
A HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE FROM DEBBIE O’KEEFE & THE CENTURY COLLEGE ORCHESTRA
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Big band and solo guest performances of favorite holiday classics. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
THE EAST POINTERS
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Performance by award-winning band from Canada, with rising indie-folk artist Norah Shea. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
ing solutions for all families and keep Minnesota a great place to live, work and, most importantly, raise a family,” DeMay said. “We need leadership in St. Paul to solve these problems and move away from the ‘blame game’ of today’s politics. Results matter to families more than tweets and insults.”
DeMay, a 17-year resident of the district, grew up in neighboring Shoreview and graduated from Mounds View High School before receiving degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Hamline University, where he also served as an adjunct
professor of business and public administration.
He was first elected to the Mounds View school board in 2019. DeMay has been active in Rotary International, the Mounds View Schools Foundation, Mounds View youth hockey, the North Suburban Soccer Association, the Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies, the Hamline Business School Advisory Council, and St. John’s in the Wilderness Church of White Bear Lake. He and his wife, Channing, have two adult children.
‘A
Very Electric Christmas’
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16
Where: White Bear Lake High School
Performing Arts Center, 5045 Division Ave., Details: All-ages musical performance by Lightwire Theatre. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
22ND ANNUAL SIMPLEGIFTS ‘CHRISTMASTIDE’’
When: Dec. 19-21
Where: Marine Village Hall, 121 Judd St., Marine on St. Croix
Details: Billy McLaughlin and SimpleGifts annual Christmas perfomance includes modern arrangements of carols and hymns with 3-part harmonies and Celtic flair. Ticket information online. Contact: simplegiftsmusic.net/concerts-tickets/#top
DON IRWIN STEINWAY HOLIDAY
When: 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Award-winning pianist spreads holiday cheer with the help of LPT’s Steinway piano. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
‘HOLD THE LUTEFISK-IT’S BEGINNING TO SMELL A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS’
When: 2 & 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: The Looney Lutherans perform family-friendly comedy and songs. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
COUNTY BRIEF
County Board approves 2026 fee schedule
The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved the county’s revised fee schedule for 2026. The fee schedule includes several updates for county fees for 2026. Changes to the fee schedule are in response to updates to state legislation and guidance from state departments that determine eligibility for services. Other fee changes were made to align the fees with the cost of processing an application or providing services. New to the fee schedule are electric vehicle charging station initial hook-up fees and charging rates, and added fees for digital passport photos.
SEE COUNTY BRIEFS, PAGE 10
Fascination with trains
From an early age, I have had a fascination with trains. They could be passenger or freight, they could be steam locomotive or diesel electric.
About the Town
Gene Johnson
Perhaps this was brought on by the fact that I grew up in White Bear Township on Otter Lake Road next to the Soo Line tracks. Actually, it was the Sault St. Marie Railroad that ran from Minneapolis to Sault St. Marie, Michigan. As a young child, I knew we had an 8 a.m. passenger train going east and at 5 p.m. the passenger train was returning to Minneapolis. As a child I had a wind-up train and always wished for an electric train. At the end of World War II, the Gilbert Hall of Fame in New Haven, Connecticut, who had been a manufacturer of three rail electric trains introduced the two rail, real life style 3/16th gauge train set. My parents purchased one for me in 1946 and I was delighted. It was a 462 engine with a baggage car and three coaches. That was the beginning of building layouts in our basement.
Over the years I have collected American Flyer, Lionel, LGB and several other brand toy trains, both foreign and U.S.
For our 57th wedding anniversary in August, Kathy and I wanted to do something special. We met after my first wife, Joan, died from a diabetic condition. My daughter, Julie, was 10 years old when Kathy and I were married.
The memorable moment of the wedding day was when we were leaving the church and Julie came running up to Kathy in a very excited way and said, “Now I can call you mom!”
Our honeymoon was to Glacier National Park, Banff and Lake Louise, including Lake Moraine. From there we went to Washington and visited some relatives and then to California where there were more relatives.
We visited Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm, and on the way home took a helicopter ride into the Grand Canyon. The 6,000-mile trip is one we will always remember.
Our anniversary celebration turned out to be a 2 ½ hour dinner in a private dining compartment aboard the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad Dinner Train at Trego, Wisconsin, just north of Spooner.
The private car gave Kathy and I time to reminisce on our years of marriage. I think if we were there when the leaves were changing color, it would have been very pretty. There was a scenic stop crossing the Namekagon River. The coach we were in was articulated and had a bend in the middle. The oldest car on the train was the one ahead of us from 1912.
The owners of the Wisconsin Great Northern are Craig and Mardell Freeland. They have quite a number of cars at their newly built depot and railyard. They were also able to purchase the Mark Twain Zephyr that had been in a trainyard in Madison, Illinois near St. Louis. They obtained the Zephyr in 2020 and are continuing to restore it for future excursions. The Zephyr was built in 1958 and it passed through eight private owners over 62 years before it was brought to Trego.
We have also enjoyed the train excursion out of Osceola, Wisconsin and the train that begins in Durango, Colorado which climbs a narrow gauge up the mountainside to Silverton and Telluride.
All over the world traveling by rail is fascinating to Kathy and me.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.
Talking
holiday gratitude
with University of Minnesota
The holiday season can be a warm and joy-filled time with family and friends. However, many people report elevated stress levels during the holidays. Gratitude has been associated with well-being, positive mood, satisfaction with life and reduced depression and anxiety. This is why practicing gratitude during the holidays can alleviate some of the stress associated with the season. University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development Associate Professor Amy Krentzman is an expert on gratitude and positive psychology and shares her expertise on how to maintain gratitude during the holidays.
Q: What is gratitude?
A. Gratitude is a positive, pleasurable emotion that we feel when we appreciate the small and big things in our lives. Gratitude can be felt toward another person who has been kind to us and can be felt about a pleasant condition, such as a beautiful day. It can be expressed as appreciation for something you have, for something good that happened or even for something difficult that was avoided. While it is useful for a person to consider their own role in
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bringing about good things in their life, gratitude is often associated with a sense of humility — that we have a good thing or circumstance as the result of someone or something outside ourselves who has been good or generous to us. Gratitude is felt strongly in response to things a person has, but that they do not necessarily feel they earned.
Q: What are the benefits of gratitude?
A. Gratitude has many benefits. It shifts the mind away from the negative to the positive. Because of a psychological principle called the negativity bias, negative thoughts and emotions impact us more strongly than positive or neutral ones. Gratitude practice helps tip the balance the other way — to place emphasis on the profoundly positive things in our lives. People may not realize that gratitude has a social aspect, too. It can improve relationships. That can lead to a mutual exchange of good things between people which can strengthen the foundation of the relationship.
Q: How can someone get started with a gratitude practice?
A. I favor two approaches in combination. One is to think about what you are thankful for — what you are glad about that you have experienced in the past or currently have in your life. The key is to consider ordinary, everyday things that you might have started to take for granted, like having a warm coat on a cold day. Another approach to gratitude is to look back over the past day and collect
THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES
a list of good things that happened. Remember that small things count — for example, you might list, “I paid less than five dollars for a great shirt at the consignment shop.”
Q: Are there any downsides to gratitude?
A. It is important to remember that gratitude affirms the status quo. It invites us to find and appreciate good things that are true for us now. If someone is in a situation or circumstance where a change might be in their best interest, then a gratitude practice might not support that change.
Another possible downside to gratitude is that people might have a hard time thinking of things to be grateful for. This might feel discouraging. Hearing what others are grateful for, and referring to lists of things to be thankful for can really help with this. Another thing to be aware of is that a gratitude practice can get stale. Your job, your home, your health and your spouse might be the greatest things you have to appreciate. But day after day, writing, “job, home, health, spouse” can get repetitive and stop delivering the power inherent in gratitude. The challenge here is to consider different small, good things to be grateful for, or to consult lists of examples, to inspire novelty and renewed appreciation for good things present in life.
Amy Krentzman is an associate professor at the University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development.
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Movers & Shakers Amy Krentzman
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Public dialogue is good governance
I want to thank The Citizen for its article titled “White Bear School Board public comments address free speech issue,” dated November 27, 2025. I would like to add another perspective to the article. Instead of invoking a free speech debate or referencing statutes that permit limiting public comments at school board meetings, what supports effective governance for our district?
Laws do not prevent public dialogue; our school board and superintendent prevent public dialogue. And laws do not dictate good governance. Leadership creates good governance. Public dialogue with its elected officials is essential for the well-being of the local community. Without dialogue around our public institutions, why do we need elected officials? In our school district, the superintendent and school board have actively suppressed discussion, dissent and transparency to control the narrative on district performance. Our academics, enrollment and attendance are abysmal — we lag behind our surrounding districts. We are becoming less competitive, resulting in families turning to other alternatives to educate their children. Enrollment is 20% below
CITY BRIEF
the 2025 projection made when voters approved the bond in 2019, resulting in less revenue and higher taxes.
The superintendent and board may have skirted open meetings and open public dialogue within the law — is it good governance? No. Effective governance within public education is founded on transparent communication and constructive engagement with parents, students, taxpayers and educators. The board should welcome constructive dissent and diverse views, as these foster improvement, better understanding and community unity.
Leadership makes good governance, not laws. Ideas for improvement come from dialogue. Can we start by allowing our stakeholders in the community to speak without the intimidation of the gavel, and reserve time at the end of the public forum for board discussion? Harry Truman once said, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.”
The superintendent and board should take note.
The Real Donald Trump
Dear Rep. Stauber, Piggies, stupid and retarded. These are words that our president uses to bully women and those who don’t support his agenda. Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s when I was in junior and senior high school, some children would bully other kids by calling them retarded, and taunt girls by calling them pigs and stupid. This trash talk was birthed in a not fully developed adolescent mind, but Trump has written and stated this same trash. This is who our president is.
His inarticulate Thanksgiving rant reveals an immature mind. You say that his policies are what you support. But you dare not say what you feel about his trash talk, even when he uses the word “retarded” and it hits so close to home. To stay silent is to be complicit. What do you say?
Please read our president’s Truth post from Thanksgiving.
Will Perry Hugo
WEEKLY WAG
Please note that I am speaking on behalf of myself. I do not represent the WBLAS School Board or its staff.
Lino Lakes enters into cooperation agreement
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 12/7/2025
ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 12/7/2025
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 12/7/2025
The city of Lino Lakes has entered into a cooperation agreement with the cities of Columbus, Forest Lake, and Hugo, along with Washington and Anoka counties, following Lino Lakes City Council approval. The agreement outlines collaborative efforts and shared responsibilities among the participating jurisdictions for the development areas in the I-35E and I-35W corridors, also known as the Minnesota Technology Corridor.
The core development area of the corridor is along the eastern side of I-35E, straddling sides of Elmcrest Avenue/ 24th Avenue/ Hornsby Street. The road stretches from County Highway 14 and County Highway 8 on the south side and proceeds approximately six miles north to State Highway 97. The road stretches from County Highway 14/ County Highway 8 on the south side and proceeds 6.5 miles north to State Hwy 97. Currently, most of the road is unimproved and not suited for business use. The road centerline also serves as a jurisdictional boundary between six of the governmental entities.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
Michelin and her siblings were found living in a tire on the side of a road with no food or water and dealing with the heat of Texas. When rescuers arrived, Michelin was the first to run up and greet them with her tail wagging. Michelin is a husky/ collie mix. She was originally nicknamed “Fox” because of her beautiful colored coat and perky ears. Michelin has beautiful blue eyes and is a people magnet. She loves everyone she meets and insists on being close to her people or person at all times. In addition to loving people, Michelin is social with dogs and cats. She is almost a year old and is house-trained. Michelin is playful, affectionate, intelligent and always eager to please. She likes to play with her toys, and she is a wonderful lap pet during her downtime. Michelin is pure puppy happiness and joy, and she has so much potential to grow and learn. If you are interested in learning more about Michelin 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.
According to Lino Lakes Community Development Director Michael Grochala, a corridor study will be created for Elmcrest Avenue/ 24th Avenue/ Hornsby Street. The study will be completed by an outside professional engineering firm to ensure impartiality and accountability for the product. This plan will identify the best design for the corridor, factoring in each city’s unique comprehensive plans, land-use goals and growth ambitions.
BUSINESS BRIEF
Aldi grocery store officially opens
The Aldi grocery store at 7085 Otter Lake Road in Lino Lakes, near the border of Hugo, is open. The main access to the 19,437-square-foot building is at Main Street and 70th Street. It is open 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday.
Dan Skaar Hugo
Madeline Dolby
The new Aldi grocery store is located on the border of Lino Lakes and Hugo.
COPS&COURTS
POLICE REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following calls for service:
• Deputies were dispatched out to the 5000 block of 131st Street N. at 11:58 p.m. Oct. 16 on a report of juveniles trespassing and causing a disturbance. The youths were caught and identified.
After they admitted to being part of the disturbance, deputies advised them to call their parents and handed them citations for curfew violation.
• In the Case of the Household Cavalry, residents in the 6000 block of Egg Lake Road at 7:49 a.m. Oct. 17 reported their neighbor’s two horses for being in her backyard, as part of an ongoing issue. Deputies advised the horse owner to have her brother retrieve her horses. The horses later went back to their corral on their own.
• A motorist was arrested for several violations at 7:24 p.m. Oct. 17 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N., after deputies conducted a mobile data computer check on a vehicle that had an object suspended from the rearview mirror. The computer check came back positive for revoked driving status. Not only that, but the license plate light wasn’t working, the driver couldn’t provide any proof of insurance, a dope pipe was found near the driver and baggies of a white substance were also located in the vehicle.
• The Kwik Trip in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. reported a group of five to six juveniles that had just purchased several dozen eggs at 3:15 a.m.
Oct. 18. Employees relayed that the group appeared suspicious and seemed about to do something nefarious with the eggs that didn’t involve making breakfast for the masses at the Union Gospel Mission. The employees didn’t recognize any of the kids or determine where they were headed. The youths may have been saving up the eggs for future nocturnal mischief, because no egging reports were received for the rest of the week.
• Deputies on patrol at 6:59 p.m. Oct. 18 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. came upon a male asleep at the wheel. Fortunately the vehicle wasn’t moving at the time. On contact, deputies observed an odor of alcohol about the slumper. However, he was not arrested because standardized field sobriety testing showed him to be under the limit.
• A driver was cited at 9:02 p.m. Oct. 18 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for cellphone use while driving. The next motorist was arrested for DWI at 11:50 p.m. Oct. 18 at the same location. The last motorist was arrested for DWI at 3:34 p.m. Oct. 19 on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. at Geneva Avenue N. after being pulled over for failure to maintain lane.
• Deputies joined the Hugo Fire Department at 4:55 p.m. Oct. 19 to help put out a combine harvester on fire in the 13000 block of Isleton Avenue N. by shutting down traffic on that road.
• A westbound motorist racing along Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. at 55 mph at 6:47 a.m. Oct. 22 was cited for speeding in a 30 mph zone by deputies on stationary patrol who clocked the vehicle on radar. The driver was identified by U.S. passport.
• A speeding motorist was arrested for DWI at 1:59 a.m. Oct. 23 on Highway 61, just north of 130th Street N., following a traffic stop for equipment violation and for speeding 67 mph in a 55 mph zone. During the stop deputies noticed signs of impairment and initiated standardized field sobriety testing. The driver refused the portable breath test. Another motorist was arrested for DWI at 5:24 p.m. Oct. 25 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N.
• A bank bag containing a check and banking information was reported found at 5:47 p.m. Oct. 24 in the 5000 block 130th Way N.
• Citations were issued to a motorist lacking in required paperwork at midnight Oct. 25 on Frenchman Road, following a traffic stop for expired license plate tabs. The driver could not provide proof of insurance either.
• Deputies were called out to the Kwik Trip at 12:18 a.m. Oct. 25 to assist a woman whose gas pump overfilled and leaked onto the ground.
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies cited a motorist at 3:19 p.m. Oct. 26 in the 6000 block of 137th Street N. for failing to yield to oncoming traffic while making a turn and not wearing a seatbelt, after being pulled over for the illegal turn.
• Deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a ladder in the middle of the roadway at 1:38 p.m. Oct. 27 on Forest Blvd. N. and 175th Street N. and advised the Minnesota State Patrol. It is unknown whether the ladder belonged to the state patrol, or perhaps to a fire department.
• A motorist pulled over for a burned-out headlight at 10:21 p.m. Oct. 27 on Forest Blvd. N. and 159th Street N. was cited for driving after revocation instead.
• After deputies responded to a two-vehicle accident on Fable Hill Parkway N. and Elmcrest Avenue N. at 6:03 p.m. Oct. 28, they arrested the driver for DWI.
• Deputies dispatched out on a report of a juvenile party at 10:24 p.m. Nov. 1 in the 6000 block of 145th Circle N. arrived on scene and saw the huge assembly of underage attendees take flight on foot. With approximately 200 people at large in the area, deputies identified the homeowner and started issuing citations for underage drink-
ing. Underage kids were advised to call for a ride if under the influence.
• A motorist was cited at 7:07 p.m. Nov. 2 in the 4000 block of Frenchman Road for failure to dim high beams or to update an address on the driver’s license, following a traffic stop for failure to dim the beams or signal a turn. A second motorist was cited at 12:57 a.m. Nov. 3 in the 5000 block of 142nd Street N. for expired registration. A third motorist was cited for expired registration at 11:50 a.m. Nov. 5 on Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue N.
• The soccer fields in the 7000 block of 137th Street N. were reported damaged at 11:00 a.m. Nov. 3.
• Cows were reported at 3:42 p.m. Nov. 4 for being on the loose in the 13000 block of Homestead Avenue N. Deputies were able to locate their owner. Another loose cow report rolled in at 6:03 a.m. Nov. 5 in the 13000 block of Homestead Avenue N., and deputies didn’t locate the owner or the cows.
• A leaf blower was reported stolen from the back of a pickup truck parked on the street in the 13000 block of Foxhill Avenue N. at 8:19 a.m. Nov. 5
• A motorist in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. phoned deputies at 8:04 p.m. Nov. 5 to report that a vehicle had been following her ever since she left Lindstrom. Based on the complainant’s statements, deputies believed that they were talking about a true road rage incident and would not leave her until she said she felt safe. The suspect vehicle was not located, however.
• At 3:57 p.m. Nov. 6 deputies were dispatched out to a US Bank external ATM in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. on a report that the money drawer was open. But burglary was ruled out after deputies found no pry marks or forced entry. Scrutiny of the bottom latch showed that it was not secure due to the improper closing of the door when it was refilled with cash. There was no indication as to whether any of the money had escaped.
• A large planter in the 5000 block of Upper 146th Street N. was reported burnt at 5:55 a.m. Nov. 6 due to possible arson.
• A disturbance over a person confronting a juvenile and his parents over the youth’s choice of transportation was reported overnight Nov. 6-7 in the 4000 block of 158th Street N.
Deputies arrived on scene, learned about the youth’s loud and obnoxious large truck, and calmed everyone down to a decibel level that was quieter than that of the truck.
Loretta Harding
RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN: Volunteers keep tradition alive
FROM PAGE 1
If somebody is needing help paying utility or paying rent, we would have some funding to be able to support those types of programs,” she explained.
The Northern Division of the Salvation Army includes Minnesota and North Dakota. In total, there are about 15,500 bell ringing volunteers across the division. In the Twin Cities, there are approximately 12,400 volunteers during the campaign.
“We are so blessed that we have a lot of volunteers that come back year after year. So many volunteers make it their Christmas tradition,” Crowell said.
Stories from the kettle
Tim Heil, of Gem Lake, has been bell ringing for the last five years. Heil and a group of his friends collect donations at the Lund’s & Byerly’s in White Bear Lake.
He heard about bell ringing through various media outlets and saw bell ringers at the grocery store during the holiday season. Heil said he does various things to put money back into the community, but this was a different way to be involved.
Heil continues to ring every campaign season because of how the community supports the organization. “The community is giving something back to an organization that’s working, that’s doing the right thing, that’s helping our neighbors,” he said.
Heil and his group of friends will be collecting donations outside of the Lund’s & Byerly’s on Dec. 23.
For the last 20 years, the Vadnais Heights Lions have been bell ringing for the Red Kettle campaign. This year, group members rang outside the Vadnais Heights Walmart on Friday, Dec. 5, and Saturday, Dec. 6. Longtime Lion Bill Weigel helps coordinate the effort.
“The Salvation Army is a good organi-
zation and helps a lot of people,” Weigel said. “It (bell ringing) is a way that the club can acknowledge them and say, ‘Thank you for doing this, we’ll help you raise some money.’”
Lindstrom resident Joy Mouch and her family have been bell ringing in the White Bear Lake area for three years.
Mouch, her husband, Danny, and her two sons, Cody and Chase, have been volunteering since 2012.
“We decided we needed a project that gives back during the holiday season. We sat around at dinner one night and said, ‘Hey, what’s everybody thoughts?’ and we came up with bell ringing,” Mouch said.
Mouch and her husband continue to bell ring every campaign because they enjoy it. She said they make it into a date night.
“We usually pick a Friday night or Saturday night …We usually take a speaker and play Christmas music, (take) extra bells and Christmas hats. Afterwards, we go out to dinner,” she added. “We have fun doing it.”
Mouch, Danny and a group of friends will be bell ringing outside the Lund’s and Byerly’s in White Bear Lake on Fri day, Dec. 12.
“I love the connection with the people that volunteer. We really get to know them on a personal level,” Crowell said. “It’s a great way to just connect with other people in the community who want to make a difference.”
This year, Salvation Army red kettles will display a QR code that allows simple donation options using Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Pay Pal or credit card. Indi viduals, families, churches, businesses and others can find out more information on how to sign up for bell ringing at www. registertoring.com or by calling 651-7463519.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-407-1226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
BY THE NUMBERS
Twin
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Divisional (Minnesota and North Dakota) volunteers
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Twin Cities program/year-round volunteers
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Downtown White Bear Lake presents
SATURDAYS DECEMBER 6 & 13 SATURDAYS DECEMBER 6 & 13
Holiday Carolers
10 AM - 2 PM
Warm Up Inside
Time & Location Varies Listen to the incredible carolers while walking around downtown.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
10 AM - 2
Board carriage at 4th & Cook. All rides FREE with food/cash donation to Food Shelf, collected by the WBL Lions Club
Elf Hunt
Vote for your favorite elf Dec 6 - 13, and b entered into a drawing for our Holiday Bear Baske -- TWO WEEKS IN A ROW -Santa
Warm up at the WBLAHS Festival of Trees in the EAT! @ Banning and 5th Soup Kitchen Benefit Dec 6th 11 AM - 4 PM
Ice Sculptures
Sponsored by Rust Architects & Construction Starting on Dec 10th
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
White Bear Lake is one of the strongest programs on Centennial’s hockey schedule each year, but the Cougars are 4-1 in the five years they’ve met after handing the Bears their lone loss of the season 4-1 on Tuesday, Dec. 2.
The Cougars (3-4) then drubbed Anoka 7-1 on Thursday and lost to unbeaten Blaine 6-2 on Saturday in their first two conference games. Against the Bears,
Cougars notch another win over Bears
Nick Carls delivered two straight power play goals in the first period to open a 3-1 lead. Nolan Border tallied the first goal and Cooper Daikawa added one in the third period as the Cougars won their third straight over the Bears (3-1-1).
“Great game by all the boys,” said Ritch Menne, Cougar coach. “We had terrific intensity, speed and grit.”
Notching assists were Border (two), Carls, Isaak Adams, Jacob Homicke and Eddy Dropps. The
Cougars outshot the Bears 46-21. Quinn Gould made 20 saves. Centennial outshot Anoka 61-14. Border and Joey Hemr each logged two goals and two assists. Also scoring were Eddy Dropps, Gavin Cunningham and George Daigle. Blaine (5-0-1) took a 3-0 lead in 7 1/2 minutes and cruised despite the Cougars outshooting them 25-24. Grady Bautsch and Cooper Bayer netted two goals each for Blaine. Cunningham and Hemr had the Cougar goals.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Nolan Border
Centennial Hockey
December 11, 2025
Nolan Border, Centennial hockey forward, delivered a goal and two assists in 4-1 win over Bears, then two goals and two assists in 7-1 win over Anoka, last week. The 5-foot-10 junior has a team-leading 11 points with four goals and seven assists. “Nolan brings a ton of grit on a daily basis. He has terrific intensity and a ‘refuse to lose’ attitude,” Coach Ritch Menne said. Border’s presence on the ice “makes everyone around him better,” he added.
Lino Lakes woman charged with bribery, DWI
A 28-year-old Lino Lakes woman is facing a felony bribery charge and gross misdemeanor DWI charges after allegedly driving the wrong way on Interstate 35W and attempting to pay off police officers to avoid arrest, according to a criminal complaint filed in Anoka County District Court.
Cynthia Grover has been charged with one count of bribery of a public officer, one count of second-degree DWI refusal and one count of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
According to the complaint, a Lino Lakes Police Department officer on patrol observed a vehicle, driven by Grover, traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-35W. The officer drove parallel to the vehicle until it used an emergency turnaround, and a traffic stop was initiated. Upon making contact, the officer observed that Grover’s eyes were bloodshot. Her speech also was slurred. The complaint states that an open bottle of beer was observed in the vehicle’s center console. Grover was ultimately arrested.
According to the criminal complaint, Grover agreed to a breath test and provided one sample that registered more than three times the legal limit. However, due to a machine operator error, the test sequence had to be restarted. Prosecutors allege that
4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254 info@4seasonsairwbl.com
Grover subsequently failed to provide the necessary continuous breath samples for a valid second test.
The complaint alleges that when officers informed Grover she would be charged with test refusal, she became agitated and attempted to bribe them.
“I am going to bail out regardless. Like whatever the f** money y’all want I don’t give a f**, I’ll give y’all $10,000 each on my soul,” Grover allegedly told the officers. She later reportedly added, “I would give y’all at least $500 of native money” and asked, “What do y’all want? $500?”
Man struck, killed after crashing on I-35E
A man died in Lino Lakes after he crashed his car on the side of Interstate 35E, got out of the vehicle and walked into traffic, where another driver struck him, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
The Forest Lake man, 66, left the roadway on northbound Interstate 35E just north of County Road J around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7.
According to Minnesota State Patrol, a driver in a Honda CR-V struck the man when he walked into traffic.
The driver, a 26-year-old from Centerville, was uninjured by the Forest Lake man was killed. The decedent has not been named publicly.
Zephyr skaters split against No. 2 ranked teams
Mahtomedi took on a pair of number 2 ranked teams last week and came away with a split. The Zephyrs, No. 7 in Class 1A, tied 1-1 against Hill-Murray, No. 2 in Class 2A, ending a six-game losing streak against their conference rival. Landon Sampair scored for Hill-Murray (1-0-2) in the first period. Devin O’Donnell got the equalizer for Mahtomedi (1-2-1) in the
COUNTY BRIEFS (CONTINUED)
FROM PAGE 3
County’s Name a Snowplow contest is open for entries
Washington County residents are invited to submit their name ideas for two of the county’s snowplows during this year’s Name a Snowplow contest. The submission form will be open until Friday, Dec. 19. Submissions will be gathered through Survey Monkey at www.surveymonkey.
second, Brayden Fuerst and Ryker Dunbar assisting. Jackson Chesak and H-M’s Grayson Hanggi made 27 saves each. Hermantown, No. 2 in Class 1A, tumbled the Zephyrs 7-2. Mahtomedi’s O’Donnell and Vinny Redpath scored, each assisted by Brayden Fuerst.
com/r/WCNameAPlow. Entries can also be submitted in person at the Washington County Public Works North Shop, located 11660 Myeron Road N., Stillwater as well as Washington County Library branches. County staff will review the submissions and bring forward the top ideas for voting from the public in January 2026, when two winners will be selected. Any submissions that include profanity or other inappropriate language will not be considered.
Nick Carls drilled the puck past Bears goalie Riley Helmberger.
Bruce Strand
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
• It’s November and time for cities to certify delinquent utility, garbage and special assessment bills and other delinquent charges over to the county for collection on the next round of property taxes. Municipalities are required to hold a public hearing before this is done, and the Centerville City Council held a public hearing on the unpaid bills at its Nov. 13 regular meeting. The public hearing, which was opened and closed without commentary, is meant to allow individuals an opportunity to provide input and to appeal their charges. Delinquent sewer and water charges amounted to $23,199.25 this year, and delinquent garbage charges amounted to $8,629.67.
• For several years, residents at 6996 Brian Drive have been working with the city to resolve drainage issues caused by a small private pond in their backyard. In August 2024, former City Administrator/Engineer Mark Statz proposed a cost/share option through the city’s backyard drainage program to help the homeowner finance drainage work. The cost/share option was considered viable with the understanding that the neighbors would all sign special assessment waivers. Since not all the neighbors were willing to do this, council requested that city staff seek additional options for helping the homeowner. After City Engineer Kellie Schlegel surveyed and evaluated the property, council revisited this issue in September. Staff was directed to obtain quotes to install a 12-inch storm pipe between 1922 and 1932 Eagle Trail to allow drainage into the existing catch basin, which would lower the water level of the pond to an elevation of 902.0 feet from its current level of 903.5 feet. The city received two viable quotes. However, costs went up, and one of the contractors withdrew their bid. After a lengthy discussion at the Nov. 13 meeting about where to go next, council committed to the use of up to $39,600 from stormwater utility funds to resolve the drainage issues at 6996 Brian Drive. This commitment is dependent on matching funds of $14,000 to be obtained by special assessment waivers. “In hindsight, I would have looked at (this issue) differently than I do now. But I feel we need to honor what was done (by the previous administration),” said Mayor Nancy Golden. Since the Brian Drive drainage project was proposed in 2024, the city has a new public works director, a new city administrator, a new city engineer, a new mayor and three new council members.
• After a discussion, council directed staff to pay 100% of the Minnesota Paid Family Medical Leave premiums for its employees. At present, those premiums are $8,896.93 for the year. Although the city was authorized to share the premium costs equally with the employees, the
city chose to cover 100% of the premiums. However, that could change in the future. The city will have another discussion on this issue, which will evolve as time goes on, Golden said. “Today, with the information we have, the right thing to do is to pay $100%,” she said.
• A few weeks ago, the city sent out a request for proposals to professional firms to conduct a staffing study; three proposals were received. After interviewing all three, city staff recommended contracting with MGT Impact Solutions LLC of Tampa, Florida, based on its flexibility and willingness to tailor an approach to meet the city’s specific needs. For $13,050, MGT will complete a classification, compensation and pay equity study. This study will address current equity and give the city a firm foundation for future staffing, said Council Member Anita Rios.
• It seems that every Centerville City Council meeting has an item on the agenda dealing with setbacks, variances, lot lines or rights-of-way. Future decisions are expected to be more clear and more consistent, after council conducted the first reading to pass an ordinance amending language in Chapter 156. City Planner Nathan Fuerst of Bolton & Menk presented details of new zoning amendments, resulting from variance requests regarding accessory structures. Over the past few months, the Planning and Zoning Commission has discussed revisions to the language that will:
- Clarify and distinguish between “lot line,” “yard” and “setback” areas by modifying or adding certain definitions.
- Provide a new definition for “lakeshore lots” and specify design standards for placement of accessory structures on such lots.
- Provide a new definition for “swimming pools” and codify precedent for placement only in rear yards.
- Clarify placement of decorative fencing in front yard areas consistent with revised definitions.
- Specify appropriate placement of accessory structures for residential uses.
After council studies the proposed changes, a second reading will be held to move the changes forward.
• The following businesses renewed their liquor and tobacco licenses:
- Tobacco – Centerville Tobacco Plus LLC
- Tobacco and 3.2 alcohol – Kwik Trip, No. 1182
- Tobacco, off-sale liquor license and low-potency cannabis retail – Centerville Liquor Barrel
- On sale and Sunday liquor licenses – Southern Rail
- On sale, off-sale and Sunday liquor licenses – Kelly’s Korner
These five businesses have completed the appropriate application, paid fees and passed their annual background checks with the Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD). Centerville Liquor Barrel has applied for a low-potency cannabis retail license. The store has been selling the product for some time, and licensing through the state and city are now required under the new cannabis law.
• The infrastructure for the Fiore Tree in Cornerstone Park has been provided by generous people around town, after council recognized a donation for the Helical Pier for the Fiore Tree and its installation. Mr. and Mrs. Ron Olson provided both to ensure the stabilization of the tree. The Helical Pier is valued at $1,500, and the installation work cost $1,000. The Centerville Lions also donated $1,000 toward the purchase of the Fiore Tree, which is ready to be installed.
• Members of the community have a great opportunity to spread holiday cheer or to donate food, money, gift cards and toys during this year’s annual Christmas in the Park at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park, scheduled from 3-6 p.m. Dec. 13. There will be food and refreshments available, and kids can have their pictures taken with Santa and his elves.
• The Forest Lake YMCA has requested a donation from the city, as in years past, but has doubled its request to $1,000 this year. The Parks and Recreation Committee has pledged to donate $250 to the YMCA, as it did last year. Council also donated $250 last year and will again match the Parks and Recreation Committee donation this year for a total city donation of $500. Half of the donation amount will come from the parks and recreation fund, and the other half from the city’s general fund.
• The property owners at 7037 LaMotte Drive will be building their 4-foot ornamental steel fence within their side and rear yards within the city’s right-of-way and drainage and utility easement, after council approved an encroachment agreement.
• City Administrator Athanasia Lewis noted that the CLPD recently welcomed two new officers, Police Officer Noah Pineault and Community Service Officer Emilee Felton.
• Crafters, artisans, food truck vendors and others interested in participating in this summer’s 2026 Main Street Market can sign up now on the city’s website at www.facebook.com/CentervilleMainStreetMarket/.
Loretta Harding
Send resume to ar@presspubs.com
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S E R V I C E
HUGO BUDGET: City’s taxable market value will surpass $3 billion in 2026
FROM PAGE 1
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the city of Hugo, along with all other employers in the state of Minnesota will be required to participate in the paid leave program. Minnesota workers will be allowed up to to 12 weeks of family leave and 12 weeks of medical leave per year, capped at 20 weeks in a single year.
“Employers are mandated to pay at least 50% of the premium,” Wobse explained, adding that city chose to offer an equivalent plan through Lincoln Financial. “Staff believes that a private company will provide better customer service and be easier to use than the state plan. Staff is recommending the salary matrix be adjusted (by) 0.44% to help employees cover the state-mandated premiums.”
Wobse said it’s important to keep in mind that the city of Hugo is one of only 106 of the 853 incorporated cities in Minnesota that do not receive local government aid (LGA). The reason Hugo likely doesn’t receive LGA, Wobse guesses, is because the city’s tax rate (39.321%) is lower than the statewide average (44.645%), as well the fact that the city of Hugo has the ability to pay for its needs.
“The city of St. Paul receives more in LGA than the city of Hugo levies each year,” Wobse said. “The city of Hugo’s tax on a median value homestead is $206 lower than the state average.”
Because the city doesn’t receive LGA, 91% of the general fund budget comes from property taxes.
Although the city doesn’t receive LGA, it is eligible to receive funds through the fiscal disparities program, a property tax base sharing program for the seven-county metro area that calls for a portion of growth in commercial, industrial and public utility property value to go into a tax base sharing pool. Funds are then distributed to each taxing jurisdiction based on a market value per capita. For 2026, the city of Hugo will receive $1,124,330, which represents a 10.69% increase over 2025.
“The (program) lowers the amount of taxes paid by local residents by $1,124,330,” Wobse explained. “Over 8%
• The 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years will start one week before Labor Day. Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Dr. Allison Gillespie stated, “(This early start) would allow us to make sure that the school year, one, ends earlier, which is a big deal for some of our extended day programming … Additionally, that allows us more instructional time before state testing.” Gillespie explained that if these school years started after Labor Day, students would not start summer vacation until mid-June. Thanksgiving break and spring break would also look bizarre, and trimester divisions would be affected. Gillespie assured the board that there would be no
of our tax levy is paid for through this program.”
A $2,010,000 capital improvement levy, $300,000 equipment levy, $278,788 stormwater levy, $92,000 park improvement levy, $32,728 firefighter’s relief levy and a $9,862,731 general operating levy are all planned for 2026. The total levy will be $13,567,000, which represents a 5.6% increase from 2025.
So, what does that mean for the taxpayer? A median value homestead valued at $408,700 will see an increase of $43 in taxes payable in 2026, or a 2.8% increase. How does Hugo stack up to other cities within Washington County? Its tax rate of 39.130% is just under Cottage Grove at 40.135% and right ahead of Mahtomedi at 36.610%.
Wobse said that when comparing the city of Hugo to other cities, it is important to note that the city of Hugo does not charge residents additional fees for things like stormwater, streetlights, street maintenance and sales tax.
“Staff has found that some cities easily collect over $500,000 in stormwater revenue from their residents; some cities collect over $1 million in franchise fees … These extra fees bring in revenues just like property taxes, but they are not labeled as property taxes, so they don’t show up in the tax rate comparisons,” Wobse said. “Instead of cities increasing their property tax levy to fund services, they just charge separate fees, which keeps their property tax rates artificially low but overall costs to residents may actually be higher.”
The city is also not the only taxing authority to collect taxes within the city of Hugo. The city has four school districts and three watershed districts along with Washington County, Washington County Community Development Authority and Railroad Authority and the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, which are all taxing authorities.
For more information on the city’s 2026 budget, visit www.ci.hugo.mn.us.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
school on the Friday before Labor Day, so families will have the opportunity for an extended weekend trip. The board approved the calendars.
• White Bear Lake Area High School is replacing its roof in the sections that were not part of the recent addition. The board awarded the bid to Peterson Bros. Roofing for just under $348,000. The money will come from the district’s long-term facilities maintenance budgets.
• The board will hold a second reading next month of four updated policies. If approved, the policy that addresses the administrator code of ethics more specifically outlines appropriate professional conduct. The instructional services—spe -
entity.
cial education policy requires consent from both parents/guardians and the district for special education services involving a home visit to be recorded. Public data and data subject requests policy allows the district to suspend responses to a person requesting data if that person has not collected available data they had previously requested. All school district policies may be viewed at www.isd624. org/about/district-policies.
• The school board is recognizing students for participation in the girls’ cross-country state tournament. To view a video listing each student’s accomplishments, visit youtube.com/@ISD624.
Logan Gion
Thomas Wicks, of Hugo, has been promoted to cadet command sergeant major, the most senior noncommissioned officer in the Saint Thomas Academy brigade. Wicks will serve as the brigade’s standard bearer for uniform, grooming, formations, drill, reviews and conduct. He also advises the brigade commander on decisions affecting the corps of cadets. He has attended Saint Thomas Academy since ninth grade and competes in three varsity sports. He is involved in Honors Band and Choir, Model UN, Cadet Fund, Quiz Bowl, Precision Drill Squad, Clay Target Team and Food For Thought. Wicks was named a football team captain and serves as Student Council secretary, peer mentor and school ambassador. His volunteer work includes Junior Achievement, Biztown, church counseling, Feed My Starving Children and West Side Boosters.
Wicks has earned two Eagle Awards, the Commandant of Cadets Medal of Leadership and completed summer
leadership programs at the Naval Academy and West Point. He plans to study finance and pursue a career in business after serving in the military. He has applied to West Point, the Naval Academy and several universities, including Vanderbilt, Villanova, Texas-Austin, Texas A&M, Wisconsin-Madison and Indiana.
FOX Business Network’s (FBN) Brian Brenberg, has been tapped to co-host “The Bottom Line” (weekdays, 6-7 p.m./ET) alongside Dagen McDowell. In this newly expanded role, Brenberg, a 1998 Forest Lake Area High School alum, will continue as co-host of FBN’s “The Big Money Show” (12-2 PM/ET) alongside McDowell, Jackie DeAngelis and Taylor Riggs, providing commentary and analysis on the top financial, business and market news of the day.
“It’s been great to work with Dagen on “The Big Money Show” and I am excited to join her on “The Bottom Line” where we can continue our conversa-
tions surrounding the biggest market movers and business drivers that are impacting Main Street, Wall Street and everyday Americans.” Since joining the network as a contributor in 2020, Brenberg has provided financial commentary and analysis across FOX News Media’s platforms. In January 2023 alongside DeAngelis and Riggs, he launched “The Big Money Show,” providing viewers with midday news and analysis on the major headlines and market moves during the trading day.
In addition to his role with FBN, Brenberg also served as an associate professor and chair of the Program in Business and Finance at The King’s College in New York City through 2023. Prior to joining the King’s faculty, he worked in financial services and public policy research. He earned a Master of Business Administration with distinction from Harvard Business School and a Master of Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School.
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.
The above graphic depicts what portion of each $1 goes to which
WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD NOTES
NAMES IN THE NEWS
Peter Olson; Reid Barberot; Military Leadership Instructor Ret. Master Gunnery Sgt. Neil Constine, U.S. Marine Corps; Thomas Wicks; Alex Golnik; Kristian Cercioglu.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Brian Brenberg
andArts Culture
EMERGING ARTIST: BRECKEN LEE
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Not many actors get to reprise a stage role after time away, but Hugo resident and high school sophomore Brecken Lee is currently participating in Children’s Theater Company’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” for the second year in a row. “It's really fun being able to come back to my character and see what I can do to grow in that character,” Lee described.
She touches on a challenge for many stage actors: How does one keep a role fresh after performing it dozens of times? “Advice that I’ve been given from our stage
Tmanager, Nate (Stanger), is to always be listening in on the scene,” Lee stated. “You'll see an actor do something new every single day and it's really cool if you can notice everything.” Lee has especially noticed this from Reed Sigmund, this production’s Grinch. “There’s a huge scene in the show. It’s called ‘Grinchy Shopping,’ and I’m in about the same spot I was in last year,” Lee recounted. “I’m watching (him) change it up every night and also change it from last year.” Now with one
year more theater experience, Lee feels that, this time around, she has more tools to play off of Sigmund and her other cast mates.
One area in which Lee feels she is sharpening her toolset is character embodiment. “If you look off to the side and see that character, they're still very much the character and not the person playing the character,” she explained.
The desire to grow as an actor seems hardwired into Lee, who has been performing in shows
since she was four years old. “My entire family has done it. I grew up watching my sister do theater when I was, like, two,” Lee stated. “Then I started doing shows with CPA, and I loved every minute of it. I think theaters are just so important.”
Though Lee recognized that theater provides many skills and benefits, her personal reason for participating is to spread gladness. “Getting to see the joy in the audience is probably what fuels me in every single performance,” Lee said. “There’s a scene in ‘The Grinch’ where we go out in the audience and we’re singing directly to them, and every single day, I could have a story of a new little kid who's just so happy that we're right in front of them, and I can see them loving the show.”
“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas” runs now through Jan. 4, 2026. For tickets and more details, visit childrenstheatre.org.
LAKESHORE PLAYERS HOSTS CONCERTS OF NOTE
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
his holiday season, the Hanifl Performing Arts Center has three different concerts coming to town.
“This is another great way for us to give opportunities not only for musicians, but also for people who want to come to a concert in their own backyard,” Lakeshore Players’ Managing Director Megan Pence commented. “We have great facilities here, so let’s take advantage of them … Also, there’s usually free parking.”
A Holiday Performance from the Century College Jazz Ensemble
One looking for a swingin’, brassy sound this Christmas need look no further. “It’s a fun, jazzy, big band concert,” Pence explained. “Debbie O’Keefe, she’s going to be our main soloist. She usually brings some special guests on stage.”
Pence is especially excited about Lakeshore’s partnership with Century College.
“We try to find ways to take advantage of a great institution with a
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Lake Area
(WBLA)Historical Society Executive
Director Sara Hanson believes that the societal shifts and cultural attitudes currently happening around the country are arriving right on time. “I’ve often said that, every couple of generations, we’ve noticed the shake up of our norms,” Hanson stated.
2025 marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War while 2026 will be the United States’ 250th anniversary. Therefore, Hanson felt that offering programming
wonderful theater and music program, and we try to find opportunities to get them into our space,” she explained.
A Holiday Performance from Debbie O’Keefe and the Century College Jazz Ensemble kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18.
Don Irwin: A Steinway Holiday
Steinway piano player Don Irwin has been a recording studio musician for Prince, Donna Summer and more. Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis also features Irwin annually during their fall concert. Now, he is coming to Hanifl to seasonal cheer.
“It’s another opportunity to show off our Steinway with someone who’s really great at playing it,” Pence stated. “It’s going to be a nice mix of holiday tunes that people know and love—but by an incredible musician.”
Performances of “Don Irwin: A Steinway Holiday” are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20.
Chase and Ovation’s New Year’s Eve Tribute to Prince Chase and Ovation is the premiere Prince music act, well-respected by the late artist’s
estate and the only tribute band with Prince’s permission and blessing to perform his music. Many of Prince’s former bandmates often join the group during their shows. The concert promises to cover Prince’s biggest hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s.
“It’s a nice concert on New Year’s Eve,” Pence stated, “that’s geared mainly to adults.”
Chase and Ovation’s New Year’s Eve Tribute to Prince begins at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31.
No matter the concert community members attend, Pence believes that the main stage at Hanifl provides both an intimate feeling—where no seat is more than 50 feet away from the main stage—and full professional capability. “You are going to feel involved, sharing an experience with your community,” Pence remarked. “That’s really important right now.”
For concert tickets and more information, visit lakeshoreplayers.org/2526-concertseries. All performances take place at the Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake.
1968 VISITS ARMORY IN 2026
covering the last cultural shakeup would be a fitting way to begin the year.
Enter “Coming of Age: The 1968 Generation,” from the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS). According to MNHS, “Growing up amidst political turmoil and revolutionary social change had a lasting impact on teens in the late 1960s. This special exhibit looks at the pivotal events—both far away and close to home—that forever shaped the lives of this generation.”
While MNHS originally showcased the retrospective in 2018, a streamlined, mobile version has been traveling since. WBLA Historical Society Community Engagement
Director Allison Lincoln commented that she is excited northeast metro residents have a more local opportunity to experience the exhibit.
“It’ll be really fun to step back into the ‘60s,” Lincoln stated.
“This year will be a very big year of us really bringing our community to the center of all that we do. (The 1960s is) a very large time period that really impacted quite a few people and still does today.”
To help drive that point home, Hanson will kick off the exhibit’s opening with a special look at the defining events—both good and bad—of the White Bear Lake area in the 1960s, including the new Public Safety Building,
winning the All-America City award and the murder of Dennis Jurgens.
“That’s part of it, just is, the ups and downs,” Hanson remarked, commenting on both then and now. “We’ve been through hard things. And we can do it again.”
White Bear Lake Area
Historical Society presents “Coming of Age: 1968” Jan. 13, 2026 through mid-April. “White Bear Lake in the 1960s” will precede the exhibit’s opening at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13, at the White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St. For further details and visiting hours, visit whitebearhistory.org.
DECEMBER EVENTS
‘ANNIE’
Location: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Dates: Now through Dec. 14
Details: Little orphan Annie is given the chance of a lifetime when she’s invited to spend Christmas at the mansion of billionaire Oliver Warbucks in 1930s New York. Full of iconic songs, Annie is a joyful holiday tradition the whole family will love. Tickets and availability can be found at lakeshoreplayers.org.
‘FROZEN JR.’
Location: LILA Upper School, 19850 Fenway Ave., Forest Lake
Dates: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12; 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, Dec. 14
Details: A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, ‘Frozen JR.’ expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. Beloved characters, magic and humor ensure ‘Frozen JR.’ will thaw even the coldest heart. Tickets available at childrensperformingartsmn. org.
FESTIVAL OF TREES
Location: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake Dates: 10 a.m-3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays now until Dec. 20
Details: See who in the area has the best tree decorating skills at the Festival of Trees. On Dec. 13, there will be cocoa, fun holiday treats and activities and a possible sighting of Santa himself.
CHRISTMAS WITH THE RIVER CITY CHORALE
Location: St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi Dates: 3-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21
Details: Join the Chorale, Ensemble Singers and Instrumentalists for an afternoon of great music to celebrate Christmas.
Congratulations to past Emerging Artists on their Hennepin Trust Spotlight Awards for “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella”!
Holly Flood Outstanding Performance in a Leading Role
Lucas Maahs Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role
Eleanor Cannon Outstanding Ensemble Vocal Performance
Ben Storelee Outstanding Ensemble Vocal Performance
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Children’s Theater Company “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” runs through Jan. 4, 2026.
Brecken Lee
• The city’s newest firefighter is Tony DeLaRosa. Fire Chief Jim Compton Jr. explained that DeLaRose recently completed his probation period, which the chief described as a “lengthy but important process.” Compton credited DeLaRosa with being a “high responder” to calls.
The fire department has also hired Micah Courneya and Ashley Del Pino as probationary firefighters.
• The Hugo American Legion continues to make contributions to the fire department, thanks to its pulltabs. Most recently, the Legion donated $1,500 to be used for equipment and training.
• A cooperative agreement is once again in place with the city and an economic development group for the Minnesota Technology Corridor. Since 2018, the city of Hugo has participated in the collaborative economic development group for development along the I-35E corridor. Six communities, along with Washington County and Anoka County, have worked on marketing the area known as the Minnesota Technology Corridor. The city’s Economic Development Authority agreed that the continued partnership in planning the corridor is important and recommended that the council approve the agreement, which the council did at its Dec. 1 meeting.
• The City Council has approved the 2026 budget and levy. (See full story in this week’s issue.)
• City Hall will be closed the day after Christmas (Friday, Dec. 26). City Administrator Bryan Bear explained that city staff collectively chose to use the day for their personal holiday.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, at City Hall.
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
Improvements made would assess benefited properties for all or a portion of the improvement, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 and pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 429.011 to 429.111. The estimated cost of the improvement is $4.7 million. A reasonable estimate of the impact of the assessment will be available at the hearing. The meeting will be held at the City of Hugo City Hall,14669 Fitzgerald Avenue North, Hugo, MN 55038. Such persons wishing to comment on the proposed improvement will be heard at this meeting. Comments can also be submitted in writing to City Clerk Michele Lindau prior to the meeting.
Bryan Bear, City Administrator
Street North) Fenway Boulevard Court North (from Fenway Boulevard North to its eastern terminus)
• 130th Street North (from Fenway Boulevard to Europa Trail North)
• Farnham Avenue North (from 130th Street North to its southern terminus)
The project scope includes trail improvements, such as converting a sidewalk to a bituminous trail on 140th Street N, and reconstructing trails on Fenway Boulevard and Europa Court N. Additionally, a new trail along the north side of 130th Street N, extending from TH 61 to Fenway Blvd, is proposed.
Published in The Citizen on November 27, 2025, and December 11, 2025.
SUNSET LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
NOTICE OF AERATION
An aerator is in operation on Sunset Lake in Washington County, located at 12686 Ingersoll Avenue North, Hugo, MN.
Published two times in The Citizen on December 11 and 25, 2025.
Shannon Granholm HUGO
CONTRIBUTED
Tony DeLaRosa is officially sworn in by Fire Chief Jim Compton, Jr. as a firefighter for the Hugo Fire Department after completing two years of probation.
