New Life Church – Lutheran celebrating 50th anniversary with 50 acts of kindness
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
At the beginning of the year, New Life Church – Lutheran in Hugo set out to accomplish 50 acts of service to commemorate its 50th anniversary. The church only has three to go.
“All of our focus has not been on that (anniversary event). Our focus more so has been working on 50 acts of service, and thanks for 50 years,” explained Pastor
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Jeff Fiedler has volunteered for the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf for eight years. In addition to staffing his regularly scheduled shifts there, he started thinking about ways he — and the community
Honoring the messengers this September
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
At Press Publications, a vital role that ensures subscribers get their newspapers on time is performed by the company’s news carriers. Come rain or shine, carriers power through to deliver the news to doorsteps throughout the week. One of them, Eli Schaefer, has been working as a carrier since he was 10. He said he has enjoyed his position ever since.
“My older siblings delivered papers, so I followed in their footsteps,” said Schaefer. “It’s easy and flexible, too.”
As a news carrier, Schaefer works approximately 45 minutes a week with a planned list of addresses and streets. “You kind of plan your own route,” he said.
Tim Heinecke. “So, finding 50 ways to be a blessing to those outside the congregation over the course of this year.”
The church got its start in 1973 as a mission plant from South Shore Trinity Church in White Bear Lake. The church started meeting at Hugo Elementary School; in January 1975, it became its own congregation, known as Shepherd of the Fields Lutheran Church. The church purchased the property next door
— could have a bigger impact.
“I’ve been passionate about volunteering at the food shelf for a number of years now. I like being able to help our neighbors that utilize our service,” he said.
“Our clientele is growing, and our donations are down.”
and got to work constructing its own building.
Les and Dee Winter have been members of the church since the beginning. They once owned a farm on the border of Lino Lakes and Hugo, but recently moved to Forest Lake. Dee said the church was largely built by the members, who chopped wood, constructed the roof, and installed heating and air conditioning.
SEE
Fiedler, a Packers fan, mentioned the idea of a “brat fest” to Spencer Grundhofer (owner of Grundhofer’s Old-Fashion Meats), a Vikings fan.
“(I thought) why not do a brat fest here in Hugo? We have got the baron of brats right here,” Fiedler said.
Grundhofer was interested and ultimately agreed to sponsor the event.
Brats, Bags & Baskets is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Lions Volunteer Park in Hugo.
SEE BRATS, BAGS AND BASKETS, PAGE2
“Once you pick one, it’s yours. The route that you live on is the one that you’re going to be doing. It’s going to be a lot of knocking on different people’s doors and delivering the papers.”
Schaefer drops off newspapers year-round, relying on nothing but his own two feet, come rain or shine. “We’re supposed to walk because, as a carrier, you have to deliver it to their front step,” he said. However, dropping off papers isn’t the only joy Schaefer said he gets out of the job. He has even more fun meeting and connecting with the people he delivers to. “It’s a great way to get to know other people. I’ve actually gotten to do lawn work from meeting with them, because they need someone to mow their lawns and do other yard maintenance. That’s been pretty awesome,” he said. That number of connections, according to Schaefer, currently sits at around a dozen.
Looking ahead, Schaefer says he already has one college in mind: Northwestern University, located near the heart of St. Paul. Though he hasn’t picked a degree, he says his siblings are a big reason for choosing the university.
For those interested in becoming a carrier, Schaefer said it’s easy to do. “It’s not super time-consuming,” he said. “You kind of just do it.”
Did you know?
• National Newspaper Carrier Day is Thursday, Sept. 4.
• Press Publications has approximately 80 carriers ages 10 and up.
• If you’re interested in becoming a carrier, call our circulation department at 651-407-1246 or visit our office in White Bear Lake.
CONTRIBUTED
New Life Church – Lutheran in Hugo is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. An anniversary event is planned for Sunday, Sept. 14.
ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS Eli Schaefer
BRATS, BAGS AND BASKETS: Brings community together for ‘great cause’
“This is the perfect time to raise funds and show who we are to the community and what we do. The main goal is to raise as much money as we can for the food shelf,” Fiedler said. He added that he hopes the event will become an annual community tradition.
Fiedler has worked alongside event co-chair Kris Greene and other committee members including Stacy Jacky and Ellen Boyd.
Jacky, who has volunteered for the food shelf for two years, said she believes it’s “our shared responsibility” to support neighbors. “Events like this are a fun and engaging way to bring people together for a great cause,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone come out to enjoy some food and games with their families while helping to provide meals for those in need. I’m confident we’ll exceed our goals and have a great time doing it.”
In addition to brats from Grundhofer’s, there will be frozen custard from Culver’s. Beyond the food, there will be a silent auction with approximately 30 baskets. Highlights include Vikings vs. Packers tickets for the game at Lambeau Field and Commanders vs. Vikings
HOW TO DONATE
To donate an item for the silent auction, contact BBBHugofundraiser@gmail.com to arrange pickup. Items can also be dropped off at the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf on Monday evenings from 4 to 7 p.m. All donations need to be received by Sept. 10. Donations should include:
• Your business name and contact information
• A brief description and monetary value of your donation
• A business flyer/card or short bio to display with your item
tickets for the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Volunteers are collecting donations for the silent auction through Sept. 10.
The Hugo Lions Club is also sponsoring a cornhole tournament. Sign up the day of the tournament, or sign up in advance via the Scoreholic app.
“We have lots of things to keep the kids busy. If they are busy then hopefully their parents will eat the food,” Fiedler said. “If the kids have a good time, then their parents will have a good time.”
For kids, there will be face painting, crazy hair and balloon art in addition to the park’s playground. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Hugo Fire
COUNTY BRIEF
County attorney receives grants for victim and witness services, reducing auto thefts
The Washington County Attorney’s Office has received Minnesota Department of Public Safety grants for victim and witness
IF YOU GO:
When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20
Where: Lions Volunteer Park, 5524 Upper 146th St. N.
Details: The community event will include Grundhofer’s brats and hot dogs, Culver’s custard, a silent auction, a cornhole tournament and a kid zone, including face painting, crazy hair, balloon art and more. Bring nonperishable food items to “stuff the fire truck.” The silent auction will accept credit cards, but the rest of the event is cash only.
Department also plan to attend.
“We are so appreciative of our volunteers and community members who are coming together to put on a great event that helps us feed our neighbors throughout the year,” said Food Shelf President Chris DuFresne. “The need is greater than ever, and we need all the support we can get.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
services and for reducing auto thefts in the county. The attorney’s office received a $140,000 Office of Justice Programs grant for 2026 to support personnel costs associated with victim and witness services. The attorney’s office has received state and federal grant funding for victim and witness services in varying amounts since 1990.
The attorney’s office also received a $138,956 Auto Theft Prevention grant for 2026 and 2027. The attorney’s office has received that specific grant since 2005. Although the grant amount fluctuates each grant cycle, the dollar amounts for this grant are similar to those received for fiscal years 2024 and 2025.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
WHITE BEAR LAKE FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Fridays
Where: Clark Ave., between Second Street and Third Street
Details: A tradition since the 1970s, the farmers’ market features more than 50 vendors.
Contact: whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8526
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4 and Sept. 18; 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
HUGO SENIOR CLUB
When: 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15 and every 3rd Monday of every other month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.
Details: Annual chicken dinner followed by Bingo. Dinner free for members who have paid dues. Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
CURRENT EVENTS
AUTHOR VISIT
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5
Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake
Details: William Kent Krueger will sign his 21st Cork O’Connor mystery, “Apostle’s Cove.” Call to reserve a copy.
Contact: 651-426-0918
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH BRIEF
West Nile virus cases increase in Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Health has reported 20 cases of West Nile virus in 2025. Two of the affected people died. According to the department, case numbers can vary due to factors such as heat and rainfall. West Nile virus is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Most people who are bitten by infected mosquitoes will experience either no symptoms or a mild flu-like illness. According to the department, symptoms usually
show up within one to two weeks. There is no treatment for the illness other than supportive care.
To protect yourself from mosquito bites, the department encourages people to use insect repellents; pretreat clothing and gear with permethrin-based products; wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants; be extra cautious or avoid outdoor activities at dusk and dawn; and keep mosquitoes out of your home by maintaining screens on windows and doors.
More information about West Nile virus can be found on the department’s website.
MAHTOMEDI HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1975
When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6
Where: The Dugout, 96 Mahtomedi Ave.
Details: Casual 50-year class reunion celebration with cash bar and food available for purchase.
MUSIC ON THE LAWN
When: 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7
Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St., White Bear Lake
Details: The Beatles Ensemble performs at the free concert series held on the first Sunday of the month during summer. Held indoors if rain. Contact: 651-429-9026 or wblumc.org
AUTHOR VISIT
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12
Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square
Details: Ann Schreiber will sign copies of her new novel “Emily’s Next Chapter.” Contact: 651-426-0918
SAVE THE DATE
Brats, Bags and Baskets
When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 20
Where: Hugo Lions Volunteer Park, 5524 Upper 146th St. N.
Details: Grilled brats, ice cream, silent auction and cornhole tournament. Proceeds go to Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf.
Contact: 651-528-6224
STORYTIME IN HUGO
When: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24
Where: Hugo Lions Volunteer Park, 5524 Upper 146th St. N
Details: Storytime will include stories, songs, movement and more. The event is designed for children and caregivers of all ages. Registration is not required. Contact: WashinCoLib.org
Bald Eagle Art Crawl
When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13
Where: Around Bald Eagle lake
Details: Self-guided art crawl around the lake with stops to purchase original artwork and crafts or listen to live music. Best enjoyed by bike or car. Map online.
Contact: belarts.org
CONCERT IN THE PARK
When: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24
Where: Hugo Lions Volunteer Park, 5524 Upper 146th St. N; Concert will be held on the north side of the pavilion.
Details: M.T. Pockets & Loose Change will perform. The band includes multiple lead vocalists and a fivepiece horn section. Dance-worthy music will span the decades and bring a wall of sound to Mowtown, R & B, soul, new-swing and pop classics. Bring a chair or blanket to sit on.
Contact: www.ci.hugo.mn.us or 651-762-6342
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
HUGO
The Hugo Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 7:00 pm at Hugo City Hall to consider the site plan and interim use permit (IUP) requests from Cedar Creek Energy located at 3155 104th Lane NE, Blaine, MN 55449. The IUP request is to allow an approximately 5-acre, 1 Megawatt, solar farm on a 38-acre property located at 7776 157th Street North. The property is generally located north of 157th Street North, east of Harrow Avenue North, and west of Ingersoll Avenue North, and is legally described as that part of the NE Quarter of the NW Quarter of Section 15, Township 31 North, and Range 21 West. Full legal description is available at City Hall.
Anyone wishing to comment on the request can be heard at this time. Please call Max Gort, Associate Planner at 651-762-6311 if you have any questions or comments on the application and would like to participate in the meeting.
Max Gort, Associate Planner
Published one time in The Citizen on September 4, 2025.
CITY OF HUGO
JOINT WORKSHOP
CITY COUNCIL, PLANNING COMMISSION, EDA
The Hugo City Council, Planning Commission, and Economic Development Authority (EDA) will be holding a joint workshop on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 5:30 PM at the Peder Pedersen Pavilion, 5524 Upper 146th Street N, to discuss the 165th Street AUAR Study. More information on the study can be found on the Planning Department page on the City Website. Please call Rachel Juba, Community Development Director at 651-762-6304 if you have any questions or comments on the study and would like to attend the meeting.
Published one time in The Citizen on September 4, 2025.
CITY OF HUGO
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
and 126th Street N.
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 $1.2 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
Published two times in The Citizen on September 4, 2025 and September 18, 2025.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Notice is
#: BUJ02954F415 Registration #: MN 2161MH Boat Trailer: 2015 Trailstar VIN #: 4TM11EH13FB001098 Outstanding Balance: $9,500.00
The watercraft will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder to satisfy the lien.
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Hugo will hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 6, 2025 to consider the 2025 Beaver Ponds Area Street Improvement Project.
The project includes mill and overlay improvements along Flay Road N, 129th Drive N, Fiona Road N, 129th Street N, 128th Street N, 128th Street Court
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
What does the start of fall mean to you?
Last September, when I was in the second year of my master’s program, one of my professors proposed an ice breaker question for the class on our first day. He asked us: “What does the start of fall mean to you?”
A lot of my classmates said it meant they could pull out their favorite sweater, drink pumpkin spiced lattes again and they knew it was time to start mentally preparing for the start of a new school year. I said that fall was a “reset” for me. The start of the school year symbolized the start of a new year. All the goals I had written down would have to be completed by next September. September was essentially my version of January. A majority of the goals I had set revolved around school. One of my goals was to complete my masters project, which I did. Another was to graduate, which I also accomplished. A third goal I had set out for myself to complete was to create new friendships with classmates, another thing I quite quickly accomplished.
While in some moments I didn’t think achieving my academic goals were possible, I knew I had various resources available to help me when I was struggling. Where I attended college, there was a writing center available to all students and faculty. If you were struggling with a paper, you could visit the writing center and speak to someone about it. They would help you brainstorm possible thesis statement ideas, help with the organization of your paper and even provide feedback on it. As a creative writing major, it was a very resourceful tool. I found myself visiting the center on multiple occasions throughout my time as an undergrad and graduate student.
Another resource available at my fingertips were the multiple librarians on staff. When searching through thousands of scholarly articles got to be overwhelming, I had the ability to contact a librarian to help me narrow down my search. I sent them my research topic and what sources I had already found. In return, the librarian would send me research tips and tricks and possible sources I could look at. They also helped me gain a better understanding of the University’s library database catalog and how to navigate it.
As a student athlete, I was required to complete three hours of study hall per week to make sure I didn’t fall behind on homework and keep up with my academics. While it wasn’t my favorite thing to do, it helped me learn time management skills. In fact, attending study hall and spending all that time focused on my academics helped me raise my GPA from 3.5 to a 3.9 in only one semester.
As we head into a new school year, I highly encourage students to take advantage of the resources available to them. Whether that is going to an afterschool tutoring group once a week, going to a teacher’s office hours or even meeting with your dean to discuss your future, there are options far and wide that are there to help you academically thrive. I learned that school faculty love to help students in any way they can! It is what they are there for.
Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press.
Elevating excellence, built on a foundation of trust
TMovers and Shakers
he start of a new school year always brings excitement and optimism, and this fall is no exception. Last week, more than 1,000 White Bear Lake Area Schools staff members came together for Convocation and kicked off the 2025-26 school year with a powerful theme: “Elevating Excellence, Built on a Foundation of Trust.” This theme captures our district’s journey and sets a clear vision for the years ahead.
Wayne Kazmierczak
The groundwork for this vision began in the summer of 2017 when community members helped create a long-range strategic plan that charted a bold path forward. This was reinforced in 2019, when residents overwhelmingly supported our historic bond referendum. This “Building Our Future” initiative was more than a financial commitment; it was a powerful statement of community confidence in a shared mission to prepare every student for success. White Bear Lake Area Schools has experienced a historic period of transformation, reshaping both our school facilities and the opportunities
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available to students. At the heart of this work has always been the deep connection established through positive student and family experiences.
The results are now visible across the district. This summer, projects at Mariner and Central Middle Schools were completed, and early next spring, the final piece of the facilities plan will wrap up when the Early Childhood and Transition Education Center spaces at Sunrise Park are complete, closing an important chapter in our district’s history. These modern learning spaces give students access to facilities that match the quality of instruction happening inside, providing environments designed to inspire collaboration, creativity, and achievement. These updates reflect more than bricks and mortar; they represent years of careful planning and a community’s commitment to giving students the very best opportunities.
With the physical blueprint of our facilities nearly complete, our focus is now on an even more exciting phase of using these spaces to further elevate academic excellence in teaching and learning. We remain committed to our top priority: to foster the rigorous instruction and deep student engagement that leads to significant academic growth. We will also continue to nurture the skills, confidence, and well-being that
THE CITIZEN | LETTER GUIDELINES
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prepares each student for success in life. In the year ahead, the district will continue to engage with families, residents, and partners to better understand their priorities for students, ensuring that our work remains closely aligned with community values. Measuring progress in meaningful ways will also be essential. While traditional benchmarks remain important, White Bear Lake Area Schools is committed to using data intelligently and transparently to guide decisions and demonstrate results that reflect the broader impact of education.
Public education faces complex challenges, but we enter this school year well-prepared and well-supported. Because of our community's confidence and investment, our district is positioned not just to respond to challenges but to set the bar for excellence.
As the 2025-26 school year begins, there is much to celebrate: years of progress, facilities designed for the future, and a community united around student success. Together, we will continue elevating excellence, built on a foundation of trust.
Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak Superintendent, White Bear Lake Area Schools
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Madeline
Madeline’s Mail
Madeline Dolby
50 YEARS: New Life Church – Lutheran in Hugo nears milestone
FROM PAGE 1
Members moved into the new building in November 1976. In 2002, the church relaunched as a congregation, changing its name to New Life Church – Lutheran.
“It started a new era for us,” Dee Winter explained. “We changed to New Life to give us a spark and to give us depth in our Christianity.”
The church has seen many changes. Music once played on an organ now is played on a piano. A preschool program no longer exists. Services and Bible studies now can be accessed online. The leadership has also changed. Since the church’s inception, there have been seven pastors. Heinecke has served as pastor for eight and a half years.
Nevertheless, a few things haven’t changed.
“It’s a very cross-generational church family,” Heinecke explained. “We come from different life experiences, different walks of life, different ages, different demographics, but when we are here, we are all mixed in together. We are all here to serve and to be a blessing to others together.”
Winter added, “They learn to be involved as a very important part of the congregation at an early age. It’s not like there’s adults and children. It’s like a family.”
Another constant has been the desire to serve. Heinecke noted that everyone is community-service oriented. “We are here to be of service to our community and the communities
CENTERVILLE TIDBITS
that we live in,” he said.
So, what better way to serve a community than by coming up with 50 different projects to make a difference outside the church’s walls? Most of the acts have been local, but some reached further. For example, the church collected donations for those impacted by the flooding in Texas.
During Good Neighbor Days, the church offered its parking lot during the parade and served as a free shuttle location. Volunteers make regular donations to the local food shelf, help with the local homeless shelter, and clean up trash along Frenchman Road as part
• Before the start of the most recent City Council meeting, Mayor Nancy Golden led a moment of silence to mourn the two schoolchildren who were murdered that day at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis. Seventeen other members of the church school were injured in the mass shooting.
• It’s not quite time to approve the 2026 preliminary budget, but it is time to talk about it. Finance Director Bruce DeJong attended the work session before the Aug. 27 meeting to give council members a heads up on what’s coming. The proposed 2026 general fund budget reflects a 4.8% increase in both revenues and expenditures. Expenditures will increase by $166,297 because of a $109,459 increase in police wages and benefits, the new city planner contract, transfers to capital funds, engineering fees, street repairs and service, a subsidy to the Economic Development Authority, and miscellaneous expenses.
Revenues, however, will decrease by $122,400 because of a one-time bond transfer of $65,000; a $60,000 decrease in revenue from building permits; and ambulance rental costs of $7,200. An offsetting revenue increase of $9,800 will come from licenses, police aid and miscellaneous sources. The tax levy impact includes the General Fund levy increase of 9.6%, or $288,697, and the 10.2% debt service levy decrease of $26,040. The total levy will increase 8%, or $262,657. The 8% increase is consistent with last year’s increase of 7.7%, DeJong said. The city must approve the preliminary 2026 budget by Sept. 24. In the meantime, the city has options to reduce the levy impact, DeJong said.
• The Centerville City Council has once again been made whole, after the council unanimously selected
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and pay associated
and
that are caused by
of the Adopt a Highway program. The church hosted a grass maze, a Night to Unite party and, most recently, a fix-it clinic. In addition, it typically hosts a blood drive several times a year.
This fall, Heinecke says, the congregation is looking into doing a meal packing event for Feed My Starving Children and hosting a local craft fair. For more information about New Life Church – Lutheran, visit www.newlifehugo.org.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
Linda Broussard-Vickers to replace Council Member Darrin Mosher, who resigned earlier this summer. The city received several applications for the open seat, and three candidates were interviewed at the work session. Broussard-Vickers has served several terms on the Planning and Zoning Commission as well as on the City Council. She has also served as liaison to various commissions. Her term will expire in January 2027.
• Landowners at 1847 Prairie Drive have been given the go-ahead to build a fence, after the council approved an encroachment agreement to build the fence within the city’s right-of-way/drainage and utility easement. The landowners want to build a 4-foot chain link fence with wooden posts.
• A representative from the Anoka County Election Integrity Team took a few moments to advise the council of the ways higher government tries to usurp power from cities regarding elections. He said methods include the county physically running Election Day instead of the city clerk; pushing for ranked choice voting; not asking cities whether electronic poll records would be used; and introducing artificial intelligence. “Part of the solution to ensure election integrity is to have local control, and we recommend that cities keep that control,” the representative told the council. “(We) wanted to get the (information) in your hands so you know what counties are up to.”
• In a report, City Administrator Athanasia Lewis said the city received a grant from the Rice Creek Watershed District to install an irrigation system that
New Life Church – Lutheran 50th anniversary celebration
When: Sunday, Sept. 14
Where: New Life Church –Lutheran, 6000 148th St. N, Hugo
Details: There will be a worship service at 9 a.m. featuring guest pastor Rev. Lucas Woodford. At 10:30 a.m., people are invited to share memories and stories while playing a “guess the year” game. At 11:30 a.m., there will be a catered meal. There will also be activities for children, including a pinata.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Used-a-Bit Sale
The sale starts at 9 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, and goes until noon on Saturday, Sept. 27. It offers gently used clothes, baby and children’s items, books, craft supplies, kitchen wares, small appliances, bedding, jewelry and more.
Trunk & Treat
From 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, the event will include candy, costumes, a bounce house, games and snacks.
Craft sale
Get your Christmas shopping done early at a local craft fair, held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 14-16.
reuses storm water.
• Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park will be closed until further notice to allow for the installation of new playground equipment. Several pieces that have been removed from the park will be reused in other parks throughout the city. City staff said the new equipment will be installed during the first week in September, weather permitting.
• The public works staff has completed installation of a disc golf course. Signs will be installed shortly, and a grand opening will be scheduled.
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at City Hall.
Loretta Harding
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
A side-by side view of what the church looked like in 1976 compared to 2025.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following calls for service:
• Deputies on stationary patrol at 6:03 p.m. July 9 cited a motorist at 130th Street N. for using the turn lane on 125th Street N. to pass another vehicle, despite the clear, marked signs indicating the turn lane is for turning only.
• In the Case of the Backyard Bear, residents in the 7000 block of 132nd Street N. at 8:51 p.m. July 9
“decided to live in the country and report there was a bear in their yard.”
• Residents in the 5000 block of Egg Lake Road reported their vehicle damaged overnight by a hit-and-run eastbound electric bicycle. It hit the left front of the vehicle, which had been backed into the driveway.
• Residents in the 14000 block of Geneva Way at 2:38 p.m. July 10 reported a possible scam involving fake deputies who tried to extort money from them by claiming a warrant was out for their arrest. The complainant hung up on the false deputies after seeing the call had come from a blocked number. The complainant didn’t want to report any more details about the fake deputies to the real deputies, so the report was taken as information.
• The driver of a vehicle with darkly tinted windows was cited at 3:28 p.m. July 10 on 159th Street N. and Forest Boulevard N. for illegal window tint and an invalid driver’s license, following a traffic stop for a missing front license plate.
• A minor was cited at 4:04 p.m. July 10 on Fenway Boulevard N. and 130th Street N. for illegal possession of cannabis, after deputies responded to a report of someone smoking marijuana in a vehicle. On arrival, deputies located an impaired individual in the passenger seat of his vehicle. Because the male was underage, deputies stayed on scene until he received a ride from the area.
• Deputies at 4:49 p.m. July 10 conducted a traffic stop on Forest Boulevard N. and 150th Street N. on a vehicle missing a front license plate. Its side and rear windows were tinted obviously darker than allowed by state statute. Deputies cited the driver for both offenses.
• An unbelted motorist was cited at 5:16 p.m. July 10 on Forest Boulevard N. and Frenchman Boulevard for not wearing a seat belt and for failing to provide proof of insurance, after deputies discovered the driver was not the registered owner of the vehicle and did not have insurance information on hand.
• A motorist from Texas was cited at 6:09 p.m. July 10 on Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue N. for displaying registration from Texas that had expired in May and for not producing any form of valid insurance. The driver said he moved the vehicle back to Minnesota in January but had not registered the vehicle in this state.
• An out-of-state motorist was cited for unsafe driving conduct, after deputies observed him violating the Ted Foss Move Over Law by failing to change lanes for law enforcement conducting a separate traffic stop. They pulled
the vehicle over at 6:20 p.m. July 10 on Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue N.
• A motorist was cited for running a red light on Forest Boulevard N. at 152nd Street N. at 7:01 p.m. July 10. At 7:20 p.m. that evening, a different motorist was cited on Forest Boulevard N. at 148th Street N. for tailgating.
• A male was arrested on warrant at 9:51 p.m. July 10 on Everton Avenue N. and Rosemary Way N., following a traffic stop for an equipment violation.
• A speeding motorist was arrested for DWI at 10:20 p.m. July 10 in the 9000 block of 122nd Street N., after being pulled over for failure to maintain a lane. The driver showed signs of impairment; standardized field sobriety tests produced a .11 blood alcohol content on the portable blood test.
• A vehicle parked in the city lot in the 5000 block of Upper 146th Street N. was cited at 7:53 a.m. July 11 for displaying tabs that had expired in June.
• A motorist on Forest Boulevard N. and 147th Street N. at 4:25 p.m. July 11 was cited for registration and insurance violations, after deputies conducted a mobile computer data check on the vehicle and discovered the vehicle’s registration had been cancelled because the title was not transferred upon purchase. The driver admitted to failure to take care of the paperwork and failure to insure the vehicle.
• The driver of a vehicle with darkly tinted windows was cited at 6:12 p.m. July 11 on Geneva Avenue N. and 145th Street N. for windows that allowed only 3% of light through. At least 50% light transmission is required.
• Deputies on patrol at 2:34 a.m. July 12 at the Kwik Trip in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Boulevard N. found a stolen license plate.
• Juveniles were reported riding electric motorcycles in the basketball court in the 14000 block of Arbre Lane at 4:05 p.m. July 12. Deputies arrived on scene to find two juveniles. They advised them of the city ordinance and warned of possible repercussions.
• Deputies dispatched to a welfare check on a male with a history of fentanyl use who was possibly driving a motor vehicle at 11:45 p.m. July 12 in the 4000 block of 149th Street N. ended up arresting him for violating probation. After a white powdery substance was found in the suspect’s vehicle, he was transported to the Washington County jail.
• Deputies on patrol at 2:41 a.m. July 13 in the 4000 block of Rosemary Way N. noticed a motor vehicle outside a church parking lot “at an odd time of day.” After checking their clocks, deputies concluded church was likely not in session and stepped out to see what was going on with the vehicle. In the vehicle’s back seat, deputies found two juveniles out past curfew and under the influence of alcohol.
After the kids flunked the portable
breath test, deputies advised them to contact their parents. While waiting for the parents, deputies issued citations for curfew violation, underage consumption, and underage drinking and driving.
• A business owner in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Boulevard N. at 3:17 p.m. July 13 reported a customer for throwing her food on the ground before leaving the scene. The complainant supplied a license plate number that did not identify the vehicle.
• A motorist on Forest Boulevard N. and 177th Street N. at 9:25 p.m. July 13 was arrested for DWI, following a traffic stop for speeding and crossing over the shoulder line.
• A minivan driver was cited at 6:05 p.m. July 14 on Forest Boulevard N. and Frenchman Road for failure to provide proof of insurance and for registration violations, after deputies conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle displaying tabs that had expired last September.
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Man suspected of multiple armed robberies arrested in Centerville
Dylan Charles Jungwirth, 21, was arrested by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office in relation to three armed robberies that occurred on Sunday, Aug. 17, in Roseville and Little Canada. According to the sheriff’s office, two other suspects — Kenneth Spight, 21, and Kemonie Hurd, 18 — have already been arrested by sheriff’s deputies and charged.
According to the sheriff’s
The driver claimed to be a new owner who had not yet transferred the vehicle title or purchased insurance.
• An angry motorist was cited for road rage at 6:09 p.m. July 14 on Oneka Lake Boulevard N. and Freeland Avenue N., following an incident with another vehicle that could not be located.
• A distracted motorist was cited at 6:54 p.m. July 14 on Oneka Lake Boulevard N. and 147th Street N. for a hands-free violation, after deputies on patrol observed him looking repeatedly at his lap while operating the motor vehicle. The driver was using a cellular device and said he was responding to a text message.
• Following a multivehicle accident with minor injuries on 170th Street N. and Farnham Avenue N., a motorist was cited at 11:37 a.m. July 16 for making an improper U-turn and for failure to drive with due care. All involved vehicles were towed by Dan’s Towing.
• The driver of a street racing vehicle
was cited at 5:47 p.m. July 17 on Oneka Parkway N. and 147th Street N., after deputies on routine patrol observed the hot rod fail to stop for the traffic light on Highway 61 and 147th Street N. Deputies raced to catch up to the vehicle and pulled it over.
The driver told deputies he didn’t know he needed to stop at the red light if he was turning right.
Deputies said, well, now you know, and here’s your citation.
• A wallet placed on top of a vehicle on Highway 61 and 147th Street N. was reported missing at 7:49 p.m. July 18.
• Residents in the 4000 block of Evergreen Drive at 7:22 a.m. July 19 reported their front door kicked in by unknown persons who damaged the door in an apparent TikTok challenge.
• In the Case of the Carnivorous Coyote,
a resident in the 4000 block of 149th Street N. at 12:23 p.m. July 19 reported dead animals dumped onto her property and wondered if they were part of some occult ritual. Deputies advised the complainant that another animal was the likely culprit.
• A truck driver was cited at 9:55 p.m. July 19 on Farnham Avenue N. and Oneka Parkway N. for failing to stop at a stop sign, after deputies on patrol at the intersection notorious for stop sign violations observed him failing to stop. When deputies told the driver why they stopped him, he said he saw a vehicle coming at him with its lights off and he didn’t know what to do. Deputies said it was probably the squad the driver was seeing and that, as a resident of the neighborhood, he should have been well aware of the stop sign’s existence.
Loretta Harding
office, Jungwirth was arrested on Wednesday, Aug. 20, after deputies made contact with people at a house in the 7100 block of Main Street in Centerville.
During an investigation, Jungwirth was found hiding under a stairwell. He surrendered and was taken into custody without incident.
In one of the robberies, Jungwirth is believed to have pressed a gun to the back of a clerk’s head. In another, the three suspects allegedly physically assaulted an employee.
The sheriff’s office said that deputies are submitting an affidavit for a search warrant to be conducted. That could allow
them to find additional evidence — including the gun that was used — tying Jungwirth to the crimes.
Hugo resident awarded Sheriff’s Award for Excellence
Hugo resident Josh Pilquist has been awarded the Sheriff’s Award for Excellence from the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office in collaboration with the Vadnais Heights Fire Department. The award recognizes a citizen who, through interactions with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, demonstrates
an exceptional level of service to the community.
The award comes after Pilquist, while working at Jimmy’s Food & Drink, was alerted to a patron on fire in an electric wheelchair. Pilquist located the nearest fire extinguisher and put out the flames that were engulfing the patron. He continued managing the situation until firefighters and first responders arrived to provide medical assistance.
“Your extraordinary courage, quick thinking and swift actions saved the life of a valued patron and friend to many of the staff at Jimmy’s,” said Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletch-
er. “Thanks to your actions on July 20, the victim was able to survive their injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.”
ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Hugo resident Josh Pilquist received the Sheriff’s Award for Excellence.
RATE INCREASE NOTICE
Xcel Energy has asked the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to approve an increase to electric rates over a two-year period beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The requested increase for 2025 is approximately 9.6 percent or $353.3 million. Xcel Energy requested an additional 3.6 percent or $137.5 million for 2026. On average, the proposed final rate change would increase the bill for a typical residential electric customer by $13.79 per month.
The MPUC may either approve, deny, or modify the requested changes, including approving a lesser or greater increase than was requested for any customer class or classes of service.
The MPUC will likely make its decision on our rate request in the third quarter of 2026. If final rates are lower than interim (temporary) rates, we will refund customers the difference with interest. If final rates are higher than interim rates, we will not charge customers the difference.
If you move before a refund is issued and we cannot find you, your refund may be treated as abandoned property and sent to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Unclaimed Property Unit. You can check for unclaimed property at www.missingmoney.com. To make sure we can send you any refund owed, please provide a forwarding address when you stop service.
Public Hearings
Administrative Law Judge Joseph C. Meyer will hold seven in-person public hearings and two virtual public hearings so that customers have an opportunity to comment on our request. Any Xcel Energy customer or other person may attend or provide comments at the hearings. You are invited to comment on the adequacy and quality of Xcel Energy’s service, the level of rates, or other related matters. You do not need to be represented by an attorney. The hearings will begin at their scheduled time and adjourn after everyone present has had an opportunity to comment or ask questions.
PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULE
Date
Monday, September 15, 2025 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 16, 2025 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, September 16, 2025 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 1:30 p.m.
Monday, September 22, 2025 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 1:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 23, 2025 6:30 p.m.
Washington County Heritage Center Education Center
1862 Greeley Street S Stillwater, MN 55082
St. Cloud Public Library
Mississippi Room 106 1300 W. St. Germain Street St. Cloud, MN 56301
Virtual WebEx (see access details)
Battle Creek Recreational Center
Large Meeting Room
75 Winthrop Street S St. Paul, MN 55119
Buckham West Senior Center
Anderson Room 19 Division Street W Faribault, MN 55021
Virtual WebEx (see access details)
Edina Library 5280 Grandview Square Edina, MN 55436
Wednesday, September 24, 2025 1:30 p.m. V-3 Center
Wet Classroom 701 Plymouth Avenue N Minneapolis, MN 55411
Prairie Island Community Center
Virtual Public Hearings
Public hearings have been scheduled as follows to be held via video conference.
September 16, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. and September 23, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.
Attend by Internet Connection (Audio and Video)
To join the virtual hearing using a computer, tablet, or smart phone, where you will have audio and video capability, go to: https://minnesota.webex.com. In the gray box where it says, “Enter Meeting Information” type the Event Number below for the public hearing date you are attending: Directions for Appearing via WebEx.
• Log on 5 to 15 minutes before the hearing begins. You will be asked to join the hearing through a WebEx application or through a plug-in for your web browser.
• Enter the Event Number shown in the box above.
• Next, you will be asked to enter your name, your email address, and an event password (if required). After entering this information, click “Join Now” and you will be granted access to the virtual hearing.
• When you enter the hearing, your microphone will be muted. If you would like to ask a question or make a comment during the meeting, use the chat function to send a message to the meeting moderator, who will place you in the queue to comment. When it is your turn to comment, your name will be called and your line will be unmuted. You will then be able to ask questions or make a comment.
To Attend by Telephone (Audio Only)
If you do not have access to a computer, tablet, or smart phone, or if you would prefer to attend the hearing via audio only, you may join using any type of telephone. You do not need internet access to call into the hearing; however, you will only be able to hear (not see) the speakers. You will still be able to comment and ask questions.
Use the information in the box below to dial into the hearing. You will be asked to enter the access code for the hearing, as set forth below:
If you would like to ask a question or make a comment during the hearing, press *3 on your telephone. You will then be placed into the queue to comment. When it is your turn to speak, the last few digits of your telephone number will be announced by the moderator and your line will be unmuted, allowing you to be heard.
Public Hearing and Process Information
Administrative Law Judge Joseph C. Meyer will preside over the public hearings and will provide the Commission with findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommendations after the conclusion of the evidentiary hearing.
The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public input on the proposed rate increase. At the public hearings, interested persons have the opportunity to: (1) ask questions of the utility and agency staff; and (2) offer verbal and written comments on the merits of the proposed rate increase. Members of the public may participate without needing to intervene as a party. Representation by legal counsel is permitted but not required.
Please note that the public hearings will end when all attendees present have had the opportunity to comment and all other business has been concluded. You are encouraged to join the meeting at the scheduled start time to be placed in the queue to comment. Commenters will be called in the order they enter the queue. Therefore, it is advantageous to arrive at the beginning of the hearing.
Written comments may be submitted during the comment period before and after the public hearings. Follow the instructions below to provide written comment.
Proposed Rate Increases
Thursday, September 25, 2025 1:30 p.m.
Old Tribal Chambers
1158 Island Lake Boulevard Welch, MN 55089
Bad weather? Find out if a hearing is canceled — call (toll free) 855-731-6208 or 651-201-2213 or visit mn.gov/puc.
Please contact Robert Manning at 651-201-2197 or if you have questions on how to participate or have trouble accessing the public hearing using telephone or internet.
WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THE MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
You can still submit comments even if you do not attend a public hearing.
Comment Period
Comments will be accepted through December 30, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.
• Comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the close date.
• Comments received after the comment period closes may not be considered.
How to Submit a Written Comment
Written comments can be submitted via: (1) the Commission’s website; (2) electronic mail; (3) U.S. Mail; or (4) facsimile. To learn how to submit a comment in any of these ways, please visit mn.gov/puc select “Get Involved” from the dropdown menu on the top of the page, then select “Public Comments and How to Participate.” This will take you to the Public Comment page where you will find a list of ways to comment. Be sure to reference MPUC Docket No. 24-320 in the subject line of your comment.
If you do not have access to the internet, you may send or deliver your comment to:
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission 121 7th Place East, Ste. 350 St. Paul, MN 55101
Important: Comments can be reviewed by the public on the MPUC’s website, except in limited circumstances consistent with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The MPUC does not edit or delete personally identifying information from comments received.
EVIDENTIARY HEARINGS
Formal evidentiary hearings on Xcel Energy’s proposal will be held on December 17 to 19, 2025, starting at 9:30 a.m. each day. The evidentiary hearings will be held at the Public Utilities Commission, 350 Metro Square Building, 121 Seventh Place East, St. Paul, Minnesota. Individuals who cannot attend in person may attend via Microsoft Teams (Teams), a video conferencing platform. Members of the public who wish to attend the hearing through Teams may request an electronic invitation by contacting MPUC staff Robert Manning at 651-201-2197 or robert.manning@state.mn.us.
The purpose of the evidentiary hearing is to allow Xcel Energy, the Minnesota Department of Commerce – Division of Energy Resources, the Minnesota Office of Attorney General – Residential Utilities Division, and parties who have formally joined the contested case, to present testimony and to cross-examine each other’s witnesses on the proposed rate increase.
TO LEARN MORE
Xcel Energy’s current and proposed rate schedules are available at: Xcel Energy
414 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis MN 55401
Phone 612-330-5500
Web: https://www.xcelenergy.com/company/rates_and_regulations/ filings/minnesota_electric_rate_case
Minnesota Department of Commerce
85 7th Place East, Suite 500 St. Paul, MN 55101 Phone: 651-539-1534
Web: https://efiling.web.commerce.state.mn.us Under “eDockets” select “Search Documents” insert “24-320” in the Docket #s field, select Search, and the list of documents will appear on the next page.
If you have questions about the MPUC’s review process or need assistance in submitting comments, contact the Commission’s Consumer Affairs Office at: Minnesota Public Utilities Commission
121 7th Place East, Suite 350 St. Paul, MN 55101
Phone: 651-296-0406 or 800-657-3782
Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us
Anyone with hearing or speech disabilities may call through their preferred Telecommunications Relay.
Please contact the MPUC staff Robert Manning at 651-201-2197 or robert.manning@state.mn.us as soon as possible if you need an interpreter or accommodation to attend a public hearing.
Sundays
Sundays YOGA in the VINES 10a-11A Saint Croix Vineyards
Sundays Live Music 3p – 6p Rustic Roots Winery
Tuesdays Yoga Class 6p-7p
Rustic Roots Winery
Tuesdays Rotating Trivia & Bingo 6:30 Rustic Roots Winery
Wednesdays Keychain Kash All Day Big Wood Brewery
Wednesdays Meading of the Mind 7p-9p White Bear Meadery
Sept 2 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p
Sept 3 Music: Mike Bustin 5p-8p
Sept 3 Cribbage Tournament 6p
Sept 4, 5 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p
Sept 4 Wedding Open House 4p-8p
Sept 4 Trivia Night 6:30p-8p
Sept 4 Music: Sten Carlson 5p-8p
Sept 4 Soccer Shots 5p – 7p
Sept 5 Family Night 5p-8p
Sept 5 Soccer Shots 5p-8p
Sept 6 Grape Stomp!
Sept 6 Morbid Makers Market 12p
Sept 6 5th year Anniversary Celebration
Sept 6,7 Tour and Tasting 12p-2p
Sept 7 Grape Stomp!
Sept 7
Sept 9
Music: Michael August 2p-5p
Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8-p
Sept 10, 11, 12 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p
Sept 10
Music: Jennife Grimm/Joe Cruz 5:30-8p
Sept 11 Cigars N Suds 6p – 9p
Sept 11
Music: Noah Burnett 5p-8p
Sept 11 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Sept 12 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Rustic Roots Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Saint Croix Vineyards
White Bear Meadery
Rustic Roots Winery
Rustic Roots Winery
Saint Croix Vineyards
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Big Wood Brewery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 13 High & Mighty 6p-9p Big Wood Brewery
Sept 13 Tour and Tasting 12p-2p Rustic Roots Winery
Sept 14 Vine & Vinyasa 9a-10a Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 14 Candle Making Experience 2p Saint Croix Vineyards
Sept 14 Music: Josh Quinn/Rose Duffery 2p-5p
Sept 14 Fall Carnival 11a-4p
Sept 16 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p
Sept 17 Music: Tim Cheesebrow 5p-8p
Sept 17 Volunteer Harvest Pick 8a-12p
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Sept17,18 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 18 Volunteer Harvest Pick 8a-12
7 Vines Vineyard
Sept 18 Trivia Night 6:30p-8p Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Sept 18 Music: Sten Carlson 5p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 18 Board & Brush 6p-8:30p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 18 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 19 Art at the Winery 6p-8:30p Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Sept 20,21 Grape Stomp Festival All Day Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Sept 21 Music: Gary LaRue 2p-5p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept 21 Wine and Canvas Painting Party 11a-1p Saint Croix Vineyards
Sept 23 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept 24 Music: Becky Rae 5p-8p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept 24,25 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 25 Music: Sarah VanValkenburg 5p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 25 Puzzle Night 6p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept 25 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Bella Ame Vineyard
Sept 26 & 27 Oktimberfest 12p- 11:55p Big Wood Brewery
Sept 28 Oktimberfest 10a-8p Big Wood Brewery
Sept 28 Sourdough for beginners 11a-1p Saint Croix Vineyards
Sept 28 Mandala Art Paint & Sip 3p-5p Saint Croix Vineyards
Sept 28 Yoga Retreat 9a-3p Bella Ame Vineyard
Sept 28 Music: Steve Poynter 2p-5p
7 Vines Vineyard
Sept 30 Music: Mark Stary 5p-8p 7 Vines Vineyard
School board dives into testing data
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Much of the academic testing data from the 2024-2025 school year is now available, although some will be released this fall.
Educational Technology and District Assessment Coordinator Disa Fabeck told the school board that Independent School District 624 uses test scores from Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments, FastBridge Learning, the ACT test, and advanced placement classes to provide a “holistic picture” of its students’ performances.
The district’s internal data estimates White Bear Lake’s MCA reading scores have improved significantly while math scores have improved slightly from last year. Average scores for both have exceeded the state average for the past four years. The MCA testing scores for reading and math were not available at press deadline. MCA testing scores for science will be available in October.
According to FastBridge, 66% of students grades 2-8 met benchmarks in both the fall and spring for both math and reading. Fabeck noted that FastBridge’s spring test is harder than its fall test because learning standards rise from the beginning to the end of the school year. Therefore, even maintaining percentages from fall to spring denotes improvement. Kindergarten and first grade students, meanwhile, improved their performance on FastBridge tests from fall to spring by 16 percentage points in reading and 5 in math. Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Alison Gillespie said, “We’ve done a significant amount of work around our English curriculum, and we are in the process around math. We have elementary (schools) piloting two math curricula this year.”
The high school provides the ACT for
its juniors every spring, the results of which will not be available until mid-October.
Of the 536 high school students who took the 2025 advanced placement exams, 80% scored 3 out of 5 or better — scores the University of Minnesota Twin Cities accepts for college credit. Fabeck estimated that the average advanced placement student saved $3,000 in college tuition as a result of taking the courses.
Board Member Jessica Ellison said, “I appreciate having these multiple tests included, because MCA is one day. If the kid didn’t have breakfast that morning or if somebody is sick, then that affects their test scores. But having FastBridge and AP here is really good too.”
Board Member Deb Beloyed said, “I’ve been diving into the numbers for I don’t know how long. I think FastBridge probably tells us more than what the MCAs would … but there’s got to be a better way to do this and actually get kids prepared for life outside of high school.”
According to a survey of district educators performed by Educators Thriving, educator overall well-being is improving in the district and is outpacing the national average. Of nearly 1,000 respondents, 81% said they agree or strongly agree that they are motivated to learn new things at work. Seventy-two percent of respondents agreed with the statement, “My administrator encourages staff to set healthy boundaries related to work,” up 16% from 2023, when the survey asked the same question.
2
Co-founder and Head of Research Hallie Fox pointed out that areas for improvement include staffing needs, higher compensation and more relevant professional development. Fox encouraged the board to address the needs, citing four scientific studies that associated higher levels of educator well-being with better student outcomes. 1
3
4
1. The Oneka Lake Park replacement project has begun. In addition to rubber surfacing, the new playground will include a structure for kids ages 2-5 and another for those 5-12. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications
2. This free little library recently popped up outside of the Hugo Post Office.
— Deb Barnes, contributed
3.Motorists through the intersection of Highway 61 and Frenchman Road can stop and pick up some fresh sweet corn form a local farmer sold out of a classic Ford truck. Shannon Granholm, Press Publications
4. The new State Emergency Operations Center has opened in Blaine. —Madeline Dolby, Press Publications
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to citizennews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
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• The council has updated its remote attendance policy for members of the council and various commissions. There was a concern that a member could be permanently remote. City staff revised the policy by adding language stating that members are expected to attend in person, and the use of interactive technology should be reserved for situations when in-person attendance is genuinely “impractical or impossible.”
• The city will replace three of its vehicles, including two 2015 Ford F-250s and a 2012 Mack plow truck. Both F-250s need more repairs as the trucks age. The city will purchase a 2026 Ford F-250 pickup truck from Midway Ford for $53,016 and a 2026 Chevrolet 2500 HD pickup truck from Saxon Fleet Services for $51,969.
The city will also purchase a 2026 Mack chassis equipped with snowplow options at a total cost of $409,874. According to the public works department, it will take eight to nine months after ordering to receive the completed truck.
• The city has paid the first of its bills for the ongoing Beaver Ponds street project. The first pay voucher is for $1,063,038 to Northwest Asphalt Inc. Concrete work is complete and the new trail has been installed. The first layer of asphalt has also been laid. City Engineer Mark Erichson said the project is a little behind schedule because of rain, but the contractor is still ahead of the required completion date.
• The council approved a request from Summit Management LLC for a two-year extension for approvals of a comprehensive plan amendment, site plan, conditional use permit, variance and minor subdivision for the Hugo East/Arbor Meadows development. The proposed project would add an apartment complex and manufactured homes north of Hugo Estates Manufactured Home Park at 15057 Forest Blvd. The new deadline is Nov. 7, 2027.
• Oneka Fields LLC is requesting a right-of-way easement over utilities on the site for Oneka Fields. The rental townhome project, is part of the Shores of Oneka Lake development. The developer started construction with grading, utilities and paving. Oneka Fields LLC applied for building permits and approval from the State Department of Labor and Industry for the plumbing components of the building. Because of a technical requirement in the state plumbing code, the developer determined it needs an easement over the utilities within the site. The council approved the easement and a respective maintenance agreement.
• Residents who live in the Duck Pass and Palms Long Lake Estates neighborhood, as well as along Ingersoll Avenue, might want to attend an assessment hearing Sept. 15 at City Hall. Residents who live in the Beaver Ponds neighborhood will also have an assessment hearing Oct. 6.
• The terms for two members of the Brown’s Creek Watershed District board will expire Oct. 21. To serve as a manager on the board, a resident must reside within the watershed district. If interested, contact City Hall.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 15 at City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
SPORTS
Bears overtake Park 28-14 in grid opener
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
A pair of highlight-reel plays — quarterback
Tomi Animasaun’s long gallop up the middle and Will McQuay’s dash with a fumble recovery — were the game-breakers for White Bear Lake in a 28-14 win over Park of Cottage Grove.
Animasaun ran for two touchdowns and passed for another in the opener at home Thursday evening, while the Bears defense came up with seven tackles-for-loss and four takeaways to keep the Wolfpack at bay.
Park out-gained the Bears 282 net yards to 248 but lost three fumbles and an interception and had costly penalties, one of which wiped out a 47-yard touchdown pass.
Animasaun scored on a two-yard run and a 56-yard run, tying the score at 7-7 and 14-14. The third-year QB hit receiver Brian White with a 12yard TD in the third quarter for a 21-14 lead. Minutes later, after Park had their TD pass nullified, they had a high snap and their QB was buried by Bear linemen. After a lengthy scrum, strong safety McQuay emerged with the ball and had an open field, sprinting 40 years to open a 28-14 lead.
Keying the win was the last 90 seconds of the half that saw three turnovers. With the Bears down 14-7, Easton Miles had a great kickoff return
going but stumbled at midfield and lost the ball, with their fastest guy, Matt Kamande, recovering and returning it 21 yards. But two plays later, Lincoln Bacha forced a fumble by a receiver and Teddy St. Martin recovered. On the next play, Animasaun, back to pass, saw a crease and blasted 60 yards down the middle to tie the score. Park went back on the attack but Miles atoned by reaching up
for a one-handed interception.
“After that big return where we fumbled, we were able to hunker down and make big plays. That was great to see,” coach Ryan Bartlett said. “We could have been down 21-7; instead we went into halftime tied, and gave ourselves a good chance to control the second half."
Animasaun was 9-for-14 for 126 yards with no interceptions. The Bears have two Brian White’s, both prominent in the offense. No. 83 caught seven passes for 72 yards. No. 26 ran 18 times for 52 yards and gained 45 yards on a screen pass. Animasaun had 68 yards in ten totes.
Park’s Esten Erickson, mostly throwing long, went 13-for-23 for 136 yards with a ]12-yard TD to Nolan Sease and a 38-yard strike to Kaleb Mitfau that set up Kody Aikens’ one-yard TD. Matt Kamande caught eight passes for 81 yards and set up their first TD with a 37-yard run.
Bacha kicked three extra points and Chase Bachmeier made the final one after Bacha was shaken up on a defensive play. The other Bear takeaway was a fumble recovery by Giacomo Anderson. Tackles-for-loss were made by St. Martin (two, for 20 yards), Vince Kazmierczak (two), Logan Gibson, Christian Humphrey and Adam Okanawon.
“It was good to come out of there with a win,” Barlett said. "Park has, I counted, 16 guys back who started last year. They will be a good team.
Cougar football lineups listed by Coach Diggins
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Centennial football coach Mike Diggins listed his 2025 lineups for the Quad following two weeks of practice and a scrimmage.
The Cougars opened against Rosemount on Thursday and will play at Osseo on Friday.
“As always our team goal is to make the final eight,” said Diggins, adding that it’s “possible” again this year. The Cougar 2023 team was state champion. Three key offensive players are returning from last year’s 4-5 team. Isaac Belinski-Strauss passed for 488 yards and six touchdowns and ran for 479 yards and four touchdowns. Caleb Melser barged for 646 yards and nine touchdowns. Justin Driver was 4-for4 on field goals and 21-for-23 on extra points.
Other starters that are back are Tyler
Cook, two-way lineman; Josh O’Shea, defensive line; Sam Bianconi, center; Tanner Dittrich, defensive back; and Calvin Coppersmith, linebacker.
Carrying the ball will be Melser, Tobie Serna, Carter Hemming, Edwin Ekah, Coopersmith and Dittrich. Catching the ball will be Driver, Nolan Larson, Tristan Hanson and Brett Pullman.
Manning the O-line are Cook, O’Shea, Bianconni, Zach Nanti, Brayden Boesch, Brayden Brittan, Hudson Westlund, Ben Larkin, Merhawi Zeresney, Carter Stukey and Alex Koehn. The D-linemen are Cook, O’Shea, Boesch, Brayden, Brittan, Zeresney, Matthew McManus and Owen Carter.
At linebacker are Jack Ruegsegger, Tristan Melquist, Noah Morell, Chase Wicklund, and Sullivan Moore. Cornerbacks are Dittrich, Wesley Kukkonen and Gamada Bullo. Patrolling at safety
will be Driver, Larson, Coppersmiith, Andrew Person, and Hemming. Also vying for kicking duties are Sawyer Celotta, Keegan Prigge and Owen Lieter.
Cougar coordinators are Travis Littlefield for offense, Michael Diggins Jr. for defense and Jay Robinson for special teams.
TODD VOIT | CONTRIBUTED
Wyatt McQuay (24) sees open field after picking up a fumble. He raced 40 yards for a touchdown.
Centennial Fire District taking ‘big step’ to integrate with SBM
BY MADELINE DOLBY QUAD PRESS EDITOR
The Centennial Fire District, and the cities it serves, continues to strengthen its partnership with the Spring Lake Park - Blaine - Mounds View Fire Department.
Recently, Circle Pines City Council Member Matt Percy said, SBM has approached the city about taking the next step in the partnership. According to Percy, SBM offered Circle Pines and Centerville the opportunity to contract for all fire services.
The Centennial Fire District was formed in 1985 through a joint powers agreement among the cities of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines and Centerville. In 2015, Lino Lakes left the district, while Circle Pines and Centerville maintained a partnership.
In 2021, the Centennial Fire District decided to partner with SBM after a 2020 study prepared by Fitch & Associates explored operational possibilities. In the results of that study, the firm proposed forming partnerships with regional agencies, including fire departments from Lino Lakes, Lexington, Hugo and SBM. (See “Centennial Fire district
explores partnership,” Quad Community Press, May 25, 2021.)
SBM has provided leadership services to the Centennial Fire District, explained Percy. Centennial has remained its own entity, with its own firefighters and equipment, he said, but SBM provides a fire chief and managerial services.
In return, the Centennial Fire District helps train SBM firefighters on emergency medical technician services.
“What that effectively means is that the Centennial Fire District as an entity would wind down and eventually go away in favor of SBM. Our firefighters and our equipment would become integrated with the SBM Fire Department,” Percy explained.
The city would continue to pay SBM a fee and would retain ownership of Fire Station 1, located on East Road. With the new partnership, SBM would use the fire station to provide services to the southern part of Blaine and Circle Pines. According to City Administrator Patrick Antonen, sleeping quarters would be added to the station, along with a shower facility.
“We’re not fully becoming a member of the SBM
district. Although we would like to get to that point eventually and have full voting membership in that organization … this is a big step in moving towards that direction,” Percy said.
Council Member Steve McChesney, who is on the Centennial Fire Steering Committee alongside Percy, said the committee is trying to remain transparent with the district’s firefighters by meeting with firefighters and answering questions.
“I think this is the right move,” McChesney said. “My take is the vast majority understand that this is the best thing for the community. This is going to lead to better services [and] relationships, and that’s going to continue.”
The Circle Pines City Council unanimously voted to move forward with a service contract agreement with SBM. The contract will officially be signed at an upcoming city council meeting.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-4311226 or quadnews@presspubs.com.
Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl returns with new organization, expansion
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
It should come as no surprise to those who participated in last year’s Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl that the event is returning — this year on Sept. 13. Although it will come under a new banner and setup, emerging and seasoned artists will be no less enticed to participate in the artistic merriment.
The brainchild of local artist Cathlin McKenzie-Larsen, the crawl
found initial success in 2024. That prompted her and fellow committee members Carly Ogata, Sharon Neylon and Alyssa Boldischar to reestablish themselves under the name Bald Eagle Lake Arts. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, McKenzie-Larsen says, the group will “expand efforts to bring even more art, creativity and connection to the community.”
Last year, she said, the team noted a need and an appreciation for art
activities in the area.
“With the White Bear Center for the Arts being such a major draw and an incredible place for learning,” she added, “it seemed like a natural progression for us to become a nonprofit and help bring more arts to the community.”
Ogata added, “We want to do some art events with people of different abilities and get in and work with kids, just to have them experience how to put creativity out into the world.”
To establish Bald Eagle Lake Arts, Larsen organized a fundraiser in December. There, she sold hundreds of hand-painted ornaments to cover the costs of establishing the nonprofit.
According to Neylon, the organization has already secured several sponsors, including Kowalski’s, Rudy’s Redeye Grill, and Young’s Korean BBQ. “We’re just building this base, and the people and sponsors who help make it happen are really important. We’re hoping that that base will grow, because we didn’t have sponsors before.”
For 2025, the White Bear Center for the Arts will host a site showcasing Bald Eagle Lake Arts, offering volunteer opportunities, and providing a place for tax-deductible donations.
“The center is thrilled to be part of the Bald Eagle Lake Art Crawl, an event
that beautifully showcases the intersection of art and nature,” said Executive Director Chris School. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with our community and celebrate the transformative power of art.”
An additional 30 artists will be featured across three new host sites around the lake. Ogata said the organization will encourage more interaction among attendees and participants to build on the previous year’s community-oriented vibe.
The White Bear special education department will host a booth highlighting its transition programs, which teach intellectually challenged students how to run
their own businesses after graduation. The program’s students will sell custom-made tumblers and cutting boards through the Bears Boards and More business, which is based at the district’s Transition Center.
“We are happy to accept artists selling at age 12, as long as they have a parent or guardian to hang out with them,” said Ogata of the crawl’s guidelines. “We do have some young artists, such as a couple of high school students who have signed up.” One returning artist, Tatiana Rosario, formed her own business selling suncatchers, Sun Creations by Tat, following her debut appearance
at the 2024 crawl.
“It just reiterates the fact that people want to have art in the community,” said Ogata. “It’s being cut in so many places, so we need to bring it back into our community. We can bring like-minded people together, and creatives can meet other creatives in a safe and welcoming environment.”
The 2025 Bald Eagle Art Crawl will be held around the lake from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13.
Staff Writer Erik Suchy can be reached at 651-4071229 or vadnaisheightsnews@presspubs.com.
One returning artist, Tatiana Rosario (left), founded her own suncatcher business, Sun Creations by Tat, after she took part in last year’s art crawl. She is pictured here with her mother.