Minnesota Snow Drag Tour makes first-ever stop in Hugo
CONTRIBUTED
The Hugo American Legion Shootout is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 28 on Egg Lake. The event will kick off at 9 a.m. with a drivers meeting and is expected to run all day.
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
For the first time in its threeyear history, the Minnesota Snow Drag Tour will stop in Hugo. The Minnesota Snow Drag Tour will partner with Hugo American Legion Post 620 to host the
first-ever “Hugo American Legion Shootout” on frozen Egg Lake. Chet Atkinson, a 2012 White Bear Area High School grad, is one of the three co-founders of Minnesota Snow Drag Tour.
“I grew up in Hugo, and I’ve always wanted to hold a race in Hugo at some time. I felt like this
year was going to be the year to do it,” he said. “We needed some assistance with some of the liabilities and to help take care of the liquor license, and we figured the Legion would be a good place to partner with.”
SEE SNOW DRAG TOUR, PAGE 14
Key topics are expected to include elections, public safety and environmental protection. All 134 House and 67 Senate seats are up for election in 2026. Learn about local lawmakers’ priorities for 2026 in Press Publications’ Legislative Preview.
SEE LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW, PAGE 5
Maplewood Development submits sketch plan for Frenchman Village
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Marvin LaValle has signed a contract with Maplewood Development Inc. to develop “Frenchman Village” on the property located south of Frenchman Road/ County Road 8 and west of Highway 61.
The approximately 97-acre property is currently guided commercial, low-density residential and mixed use. Maplewood Development has requested review and comments on a sketch plan for the
development of the property with residential and commercial uses.
“These are informal, nonbinding comments to the applicant on the plan, but it gives them a good idea of how they should move forward with the project,” explained Community Development Director Rachel Juba.
The sketch plan shows 140 single-family homes, 150 townhomes and various commercial spaces totaling 95,000 square feet. The plan also includes a 4-acre public park, off-street trails and a private
clubhouse and pool.
“The plan significantly reduces the amount of commercial land to be developed along the county road. However, it does show commercial uses at the intersections of Oneka Parkway and County Road 8 and at the corner of Highway 61 and County Road 8,” Juba said.
“The applicant states the property has been marketed for several years with the current land use plan, and a project has not been able to work with the
SEE FRENCHMAN VILLAGE, PAGE 2
CONTRIBUTED
Development Inc. plans to soon submit a formal application for a development to be known as Frenchman Village, which will be located on the property located south of Frenchman Road/County Road 8 and west of Highway 61.
Heather Gustafson
Patti Anderson Karin Housley
Maplewood
FRENCHMAN VILLAGE: Proposed to
FROM PAGE 1
amount of commercial guided in the 2040 (comp) plan … They also stated that the amount of commercial they are proposing is what the market can support.”
The sketch plan shows access into the site from Victor Path, Oneka Parkway and Frenchman Road/ County Road 8.
In general, Juba noted that the sketch plan creates a mixed-use area for the downtown area that blends the different uses together. “There has been an effort by the developer to integrate residential land use and commercial uses together by providing some common spaces and amenities such as walking loops, landscaping and gathering areas,” Juba said.
The Parks Commission reviewed the sketch plan and was supportive of the location of the proposed park and the plan’s emphasis on pedestrian-oriented public spaces. The commission did note they would prefer to see the park slightly bigger, say 5 acres, and they also appreciated the mix of trails and the proposed connections to the neighboring Clearwater Cove neighborhood.
The Economic Development Authority liked the proposed mix of uses and the site layout and appreciated that the developer is planning for the entire property rather than a small portion of it. The EDA noted they would like to see additional commercial land use in the area but were comfortable with the amount proposed.
The Planning Commission was comfortable with the land use changes but noted a larger buffer should be incorporated between the residential homes and the lift station on County Road 8. The commission was also supportive of the commercial uses, the location of the park, the trail connections and the use of stormwater.
“I think what you see here is kind of what you get. If this is what you want, we are going to do it. If it is not, please tell us that, too. We can either go back to the drawing board or not proceed,” said Mario Cocchiarella, CEO and owner of Maplewood Development. “We believe we are generally in the spirit of what you have in your comp plan. We realize there are some changes here … but we really believe this is a plan that will work. It is still going to take some time to fill the commercial/retail portion of
this, that’s been my experience across all our mixed-use sites, but I think we have got a shot at it here.”
He noted they are up against two big challenges. Portions of the property are in the FEMA floodplain. Of the 97 acres, approximately 65 of them are buildable. In addition, the Metropolitan Council’s sanitary sewer interceptor line runs through the site and will need to be relocated.
City Council Member Ben Krull said the sketches “looks a little tight,” referring to delivery vehicles being able to access the commercial spaces on the site. Cocchiarella noted the proposed roundabout would likely need to be moved further south to provide proper separation from the intersection at County Road 8 and Frenchman Road.
“I think there is going to have to probably be a mix of some medical uses in addition to commercial/retail … The Amazons of this world have had a significantly detrimental effect on commer-
cial retail.”
City Council Member Mike Miron said, “Overall, I think it is a wellthought-out plan. I appreciate the trail connections and the opportunity to make some of those aspects accessible for pedestrians and bikers and connect to some of the other resources and trails that exist in the community.”
City Council Member Dave Strub added, “That plot of land has a lot of potential. This looks like a pretty good use for it. We were hoping to get more commercial, but those days are past. The housing kind of looks dense to me, but you have got that nice park.”
City Council Member Becky Petryk said she was “very happy” about the large park and trail connections. “After sitting up here for as long as I have and seeing something like this come through that we have been waiting and waiting for over 20 years … I have a very favorable opinion (on this),” she said.
Mayor Tom Weidt described the pro-
posal as a “best-case scenario.”
“The days of waiting for this large commercial development, especially when we are located between two commercial hubs of White Bear Lake and Forest Lake, is probably unreasonable at this point,” he said. “None of us really expected or envisioned residential on this lot, and there is a lot of it, but it also brings a lot of customers and gives us the possibility to get those retail spots filled.”
Based on the feedback received, Cocchiarella said they will move forward with a formal preliminary plat application. Juba noted the development would also be required to prepare an environmental assessment worksheet (EAW). “It is our goal to start grading later this year, but we have a lot of work to do to get through an EAW in six months,” Cocchiarella said. “We are going to move on it pretty quickly.”
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19 and March 5 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
CRIBBAGE
When: 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, March 2 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
LUNCH & LEARN: FIND YOUR COHESIVE AND MEMORABLE MESSAGE
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19
Where: Renstrom Dental Lab, 7455 Village Drive, Lino Lakes
Details: Jenna Redfield, a Minneapolis-based marketing strategist and founder of multiple businesses, will help business owners create clear, scalable workflows and content creation.
Contact: centennialareachamber.com
GUNS N HOSES CHARITY HOCKEY GAME
When: 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20
Where: Rink #1/ Blaine Super Rink, 1850 150th St. NE, in Blaine
Details: Tenth annual Guns and Hoses Charity Hockey Game benefitting The Front Line Foundation. Local law enforcements officers versus firefighters in a regulation hockey game.
Contact: www.gnhnow.com
SWEETHEART DANCE
When: 5:30-76:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20
Where: Mahtomedi Middle School gym
Details: Evening for kids and a special adult to enjoy dancing to music played by a DJ, face painting, crafts, photo booth, and pizza. Registration information online.
Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com
‘THE GRUNCH’
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20; 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21; 1 p.m. Sunday Feb. 22
Where: Ashland Productions, 2100 White Bear Avenue, Maplewood
Details: Oneka Elementary students perform the story
of Grunches, grumpy 6th graders who want to ruin the annual school musical. Tickets available online. Contact: ashlandproductions.org
WINTER WILDLIFE TRACKING
When: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino
Lakes
Details: Explore the landscape with a certified wildlife tracker and learn how to distinquish tracks of local wildlife. Registration online.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22
Where: 645 Warner Ave. S., Mahtomedi (parking at OH Anderson School)
Details: Hike the Gateway Trail followed by chili dinner.
Contact: stpaulhike.com
VETERAN SUICIDE AWARENESS WALK
When: 2:22 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22
Where: White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave.
Details: On average, 2.2 veterans die each day by suicide. Honor veterans at a 2.2 mile walk from the VFW to Matoska Park and back.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Disappointing School Board governance
As a taxpayer, I was very disappointed by the board’s past focus on governance rather than real, glaring financial problems that are plaguing this school district. During the Truth in Taxation meeting on Dec. 8, many speakers raised significant concerns over the spending at the district and property tax increases.
At the Jan. 26 meeting, we discovered that the district made a duplicate payment of over $500,000 and that its financial oversight in the past few years had numerous lapses. This proves we have a spending problem. The district isn’t watching our money. What value is governance if the board demonstrates only a token interest in a critical aspect of its responsibilities, such as the financial health and expenditures of
Centerville Lions 41st Annual Ice Fishing Contest
When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21
Where: Centerville Lake
Details: Bring your friends, family and fishing gear for a day on the ice while supporting local Lions projects. Ticket sales starts at 9 a.m. The contest takes place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a raffle, food and goody bags for kids. Contact: Centerville Lions Facebook page
the school district? Board Member Skaar has continually raised financial concerns and asks for accountability. He is always shut down.
The board should focus on addressing real problems rather than the petty internal disputes and obscure governance policies that seem to be aimed at silencing the only board member who is advocating accountability.
Juliann Brown Hugo
Questions Stauber’s integrity
I question the integrity of Congressman Pete Stauber. He and other Minnesota Republicans, along with Trump and “his” Department of Justice, are motivated by the fear of losing the midterms. They are doing all they
can to put the notion in our minds that, should they lose said elections, it will be due to some form of rampant voter fraud. Thus, they are involved in a conspiracy to set the stage for a coordinated attack on the integrity of the midterms, should they lose.
In short, they are messing with our minds by engaging in the basic Trumplican/ MAGA/ authoritarian technique of repeating a falsity until susceptible people believe it. In promoting the false idea that Minnesota elections are not clean, Minnesota Republicans are playing their part in a blatant propaganda machine that all authoritarian or autocratic regimes use the world over: Repeat a falsity until it becomes the “truth”. Don’t fall for it.
Will Perry Hugo
Road rules
There is a section of a road I frequently travel on where I’m beginning to wonder if it’s going to take a serious injury or death before any changes are made. It’s a moderately busy road with a speed limit of 40 mph that intersects a branch of the popular Gateway Trail that crosses through a few of the communities in our coverage area. There are relatively unobtrusive signs that indicate to motorists that there is a trail crossing. These signs give drivers a notice but, to my understanding, they still allow motor vehicles the right of way at this crossing. On the other side of the equation, I also bicycle on the trail, which in my opinion is one of the nicest in the area, so I’m keenly aware that there are stop signs on the trail at this road crossing. When I’m on my bicycle I stop at these signs, look both ways — just like my mother taught me all those years ago — and cross when it’s clear. Unfortunately, many of the bicyclists who use this trail appear to view these stop signs as mere suggestions or don’t even seem to see them at all. I’ve witnessed all sorts of variations of confusion and potential danger at this crossing, ranging from large groups of cyclists speeding across the road without even slowing down, to a confusing mix of cars and bicyclists, some stopping, some rolling forward, each either questioning or believing that they have the right of way and are properly following the law. Whether driving a car or biking, I choose to deal with this intersection with heightened awareness and caution. Things have been pretty quiet over the winter, but now that the days are getting longer and spring is getting closer, there’s sure to be an uptick of traffic on all of the interconnected roads and trails in our communities including Hugo.
Trail safety resources
The simple pleasures of riding a bike and walking outside are definitely among the activities we can look forward to as spring approaches and it never hurts to revisit some of the fundamentals of safe and courteous trail behavior. A good local source of information is the lakelinks.net website. According to the website, The Lake Links Association is a citizen-led nonprofit organization promoting safe routes for active mobility through the communities surrounding White Bear Lake and beyond through advocacy, action, education and collaboration. A number of essential area trail corridors, including the Gateway and Highways 96 and 12, come together in White Bear Lake. Of the eight corridors, The White Bear Lake trail corridor is the single most complex. To navigate the completion of a trail around White Bear Lake, the cooperation of five communities, two counties and a state agency (MNDOT) were needed. Over years of effort, the Lake Links organization has helped move forward impressive progress on the route around the lake, but negotiations concerning a couple of challenging pinch points are still in progress. The information found at lakelinks.net includes route maps, trail etiquette on shared-use paths and safety tips. Board member Mike Brooks has also helped clarify issues concerning Minnesota bike laws and safe trail behavior with columns and letters to the editor he has contributed to the Press.
The rules of the road might also be used in an allegorical sense to help emphasize that it’s in all of our best interests to know and understand the laws and rights that have been enacted over time to help maintain order and keep us all safe. Unfortunately, we’re currently witnessing the chaos, confusion, fear and negative consequences that can result when laws and rights are misunderstood or, at worst, flagrantly and deliberately ignored.
Paul Dols is the photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications.
A little bit and a big difference
We all want to help. We all want to make a difference. We all want to be a part of making things better. This could be true as we look at the world around us, our neighborhoods, our families, or even our own lives. But where do we start?
Pastor’s Ponderings
Tim Heinecke
As we want to help make things better, it can seem overwhelming, and we do not know how much of a difference we can make. As Jesus was talking with a group of people, He described them in some interesting ways. He said, “You are the salt of the earth” and “You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:13,14) At first glance, it might sound like Jesus is almost mixing metaphors. However, He clarifies what He means and helps us to see the wisdom of these words. Let’s talk about salt. When
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you are cooking, how much salt do you put in the recipe? Does a recipe often call for four cups of salt? No. It only takes a little bit of salt. The recipe might only call for a teaspoon of salt. Now let’s talk about light. When someone goes exploring a cave, they take a light with them. Professional cave explorers do not use lots of giant lights. They often use just one single light on their forehead. This one little light gives them all the light they need to see. For both salt and light, it only takes a little bit to get the job done. It makes sense why Jesus calls us the “salt of the earth” and “light of the world.” We are sometimes tempted to think we need to do something big and impressive to make a difference. However, even a little bit can make a big difference. A little bit of salt in a recipe makes a big difference. A little bit of light in a dark cave makes a big difference. A little bit of good in our lives makes a big difference.
Having “salt” and “light” in our lives can have a big impact on
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those around us. Maybe we bite our tongue instead of lashing out. Maybe we stop and check on the person in the grocery store who is standing alone crying. Maybe we hold the door open for someone who has their hands full. Maybe we take the time to reach out to someone we have not talked to in a while. Having “salt” and “light” in us does not mean we do everything perfectly. Maybe the biggest difference we can make is apologizing and extending forgiveness when others apologize. Thankfully, Jesus is always there to forgive us and keep making a difference in our lives. With salt and light, it only takes a little bit to make a big difference. Thankfully, the same is true in our lives. Even though all the little things we do may not seem to change a lot, we never know how it might make a big difference in someone’s life.
is the
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Tim Heinecke
pastor of New Life Church Lutheran in Hugo.
Angle of View
Paul Dols
2026 LEGISLATIVE PREVIEW: Leaders share priorities for upcoming session
Sen. Heather Gustafson District 36 651-296-1253
sen.hgustafson@mnsenate. gov
Serving in the Minnesota Senate means holding two responsibilities at once: advancing sound public policy and listening closely when people are hurting. This session will demand both.
One of my top priorities remains passage of my independent Office of Inspector General (OIG) bill — a watchdog that will help oversee the use of state tax dollars. I began this work two years
Sen. Karin Housley
District 33
651-296-4351
sen.karin.housley@ mnsenate.gov
As we head into the 2026 legislative session, it’s important to note that it will be a bonding year. That means that while other bills will still be discussed and passed, the number one goal will be to pass a bipartisan bonding package that addresses needs throughout the state. For this area, my top priority will be a bill the prioritizes clean
Rep. Patti Anderson District 33A 651-296-3018 Rep.Patti.Anderson@ house.mn.gov
My top objective for the 2026 Legislative Session is to see to it that those who have defrauded Minnesotans of our hard-earned tax dollars are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law, and to establish guardrails to ensure that it can never happen again.
As Vice Chair of the Fraud Prevention and State
Hopkins Schoolhouse display at City Hall
The Hugo Historical Commission recently updated its display at City Hall, which now features the Hopkins Schoolhouse. A highlight of the display is a 1928 stained glass window that was created and donated by Craig and Mary Moen. Once the weather warms up this spring, the window will be installed and backlit on the peak of the schoolhouse.
The display also includes other artifacts that have been donated to the Historical Commission, including photographs of the schoolhouse and Hopkins family as
ago because Minnesotans deserve strong oversight, real accountability, and confidence that public funds are spent as intended. At a moment when trust in institutions matters deeply, an independent Inspector General is a practical step toward restoring that trust. I am also working on legislation to provide property tax relief for homeowners feeling the squeeze of rising costs. At the same time, I am advocating for another round of public safety funding for our cities, counties, and Tribal Nations, so local governments can continue investing in police, fire, and emergency services without shifting the burden onto property taxpayers. I am also working to fund local infrastructure projects that strengthen our communities for the long term.
Alongside this work, it would be wrong not to acknowledge what many Minnesotans are experiencing right now. The increased federal presence in our state has had real consequences. Parents are fearful about their children getting to and from school. Small
drinking water, roads, bridges, and local projects.
I’m also focused on fraud – this has become a large issue in our state and it seems like the list of fraudulent programs is ever-increasing. We’ve seen it in education programs meant to feed hungry children, autism service providers, housing for those with disabilities, and more. These instances of fraud have targeted taxpayer-funded programs that provide services meant to help our most vulnerable. It’s critical that we implement oversight measures so we can protect taxpayer dollars, while also preserving access to these programs for those who rely on them.
Finally, we also have a deficit to contend with. As of right now, we will have a small surplus for 2026-2027 totaling about $2.465 billion. Unfortunately it’s followed by a $5.4 billion deficit the following biennium. Even though it’s not immediate, we should deal with it sooner rather than later. We need to take a hard look
Agency Oversight Policy Committee in the Minnesota House, I have been working diligently to expose and stop Minnesota’s fraud epidemic. I am proud that our committee’s efforts have been successful in bringing this problem to light, as our internal investigations have laid the groundwork for federal investigations –and ultimately prosecutions – to take place. We need to ensure that our tax dollars go to the citizens that need help, not to fraudsters.
One area that I will be paying particular attention to next Session is the potential for fraud to occur in Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave program (PFML). Passed in 2023, the language of this bill is so abstract, that it will be easy for criminals to take advantage of the program. We need clarification in the language and administration of PFML to prevent more theft from taking place. We must also pass additional fraud legislation, including creating the Office of In-
business owners are shutting their doors indefinitely. Neighbors are hesitant to leave their homes. We have seen lives taken and families shattered.
I represent a district with a wide range of views and beliefs. While people may disagree on federal immigration policy, I believe we can agree on this: fear, instability, and violence are not healthy for our communities and needs to stop now.
At the same time, I have been encouraged by the way community members are showing up for one another. I recently spent a morning at a local church, sharing coffee and listening. Many people told me they had never gotten involved before, but felt compelled to step forward. For many, this moment has become a turning point.
As a state senator, my role is to represent everyone, center safety and dignity, and keep doing the work Minnesotans sent me here to do, especially during difficult moments.
at government spending, including the fraud dollars that have been lost, and we need to get our budget in order while we still have time and resources to do so. Minnesotans have been asking for this for years, and the time to act is now.
We have to get things back in order and that means re-evaluating what we’re funding, enacting oversight measures, getting fraud under control, making life affordable, and ensuring our most vulnerable have access to the services they desperately need. Increased taxes combined with unchecked fraud and runaway spending have become far too common in Minnesota, and it’s not a reality Minnesota families can afford. It’s going to take an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I’m hopeful we can work together to address this.
spector General, which will have investigative oversight over all state programs.
Additionally, I serve on the Legislative Audit Commission. We have been able to increase the number of audits done by the non-partisan Legislative Auditor and are very focused on program integrity. This work helps to point out problems in state programs and find solutions to reduce fraud and improve financial controls.
Minnesotans work hard for their money and deserve to know that there are responsible voices advocating on their behalf at the State Capitol. The fraud that has been allowed to fester under the Walz Administration has broken the social contract between citizens and government in Minnesota. People feel that the government has not been working on their behalf. I will continue to work hard to help bring back accountability.
Editor’s note: Press Publications reached out to Rep. Elliott Engen and did not hear back before press deadline.
well as an old school district map. The commission typically changes the display every two months or so.
Girls on the Run in need of volunteers
CHURCH DIRECTORY
The Girls on the Run program at North Star Elementary is need of volunteer coaches. Girls on the Run inspires participants of all abilities to recognize their individual strengths while building a sense of connection in a team setting. Volunteer coaches facilitate lessons that blend physical activity with life skill
development to enable participants to adapt to whatever comes their way. At the end of the season, the team completes a 5K together, which provides a tangible sense of accomplishment and sets a confident mindset into motion.
Coaches will inspire and guide a team through the curriculum. If interested, visit www.gotrmn.org/coach for more information or email Maggie.clark@isd.624.org.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following calls for service:
• A motorist exhibiting multiple traffic violations was arrested for DUI at 6:07 p.m. Jan. 11 after Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies on routine patrol on Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue N. observed the subject driving whatever way he liked on the public roadways. Their interest piqued, deputies pulled the vehicle over and became aware of a cannabis odor emitted from the driver during the traffic stop.
On admitting to consuming cannabis, the driver submitted to roadside testing and revealed the many ways he was impaired.
• A brightly illuminated driver was cited at 12:04 a.m. Jan. 12 on Victor Path and Victor Hugo Blvd. for failure to turn off his high beams for oncoming traffic.
• A wallet was reported lost at 8:48 a.m. Jan. 12 at either the Blue Heron or in the Festival Foods lot on Victor Hugo Blvd. N. Complainant remained walletless, as no wallet had been turned in.
• A vehicle displaying expired registration on Forest Blvd. N. and 137th Street N. received a ticket under the windshield wipers at 2:40 a.m. Jan. 13. The driver of a vehicle that was moving received a citation at 10:42 a.m. Jan. 14 in the 10000 block of 122nd Street N.
• Residents in the 5000 block of 130th Way N. at 10:09 a.m. Jan 15 reported unknown people taking pictures of their property from the street.
• Residents in the 15000 block of Glenbrook Avenue N. at 3:19 p.m. Jan. 15 reported a UPS truck abandoned at their driveway with no driver in sight. While the complainant was talking with deputies, the driver arrived to move the truck out of the driveway entrance.
• Residents in the 6000 block of 144th Street N. reported a WCSO squad parked in front of their driveway at 4:36 p.m. Jan. 15. Deputies moved the squad.
• A motorist was issued a written warning for equipment violation at 5:48 p.m. Jan. 15 on 122nd Street N. and Joy Street N.
• A package was reported stolen from the 5000 block of 157th Street N. at 9:52 p.m. Jan. 16.
• Residents in the 6000 block of 135th Street N. reported receiving harassment from their stepfather at 1:54 p.m. Jan. 17.
• Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 5:24 p.m. Jan. 18 on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. and issued a written warning to the driver for undisclosed violations.
• A motorist driving on Oneka Parkway N. and Frenchman Road at 5:01 p.m. Jan. 19 reported a case
of road rage in real time. Deputies arriving on scene set about de-escalating the situation and separated the parties.
• A juvenile driving in the 15000 block of Oneka Parkway N. at 9:44 p.m. Jan. 19 was issued a written warning for violating traffic laws.
• A motorist on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. was pulled over for undisclosed moving violations at 5:24 p.m. Jan. 18 and was issued a written warning.
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a road rage complaint
at 5:01 p.m. Jan. 19 on Oneka Parkway N. and Frenchman Road. They arrived just in time to de-escalate the situation, separate the parties and supervise their leaving the area in opposite directions without incident.
• It was not even time for overnight parking patrol at 9:17 p.m. Jan. 19, and yet deputies issued a parking citation to a vehicle in the 15000 block of Ethan Trail N. for parking on the wrong side of the road.
• Deputies on routine overnight patrol in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 1:35 a.m. Jan. 21 observed a vehicle left running in the Kwik Trip parking lot with its daytime running lights on. They remembered seeing that vehicle a few hours earlier in the same condition. Because the youth of Hugo had not yet resumed their door-knocking activities, deputies had time to investigate more overnight curiosities. This time deputies checked on the parked vehicle and found two adults inside covered with blankets. The occupants were caught, but apparently weren’t doing anything untoward, so everything was okay.
• The 6000 block of Egg Lake Road N. was the scene of deputies roaming the area for speeding and other violations for 45 minutes, starting at 7:45 a.m. Jan. 21. During that time, deputies conducted two traffic stops.
• After responding to a report of a child left alone in a parked vehicle
in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 4:43 p.m. Jan. 21, deputies arrived on scene and found that the parents had since brought the child inside with them. Just to be sure, deputies advised the parents about the hazards of leaving a child unattended outside, especially in below zero temperatures.
• A resident in the 4000 block of 158th Street N. at 4:53 p.m. Jan. 21 reported her mailbox damaged earlier that day, possibly by the city plow. Deputies notified the public works department, which said they’d stop by the following morning to inspect the mailbox.
• While on routine overnight patrol in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 12:24 a.m. Jan. 22, deputies observed a vehicle displaying expired registration
and cited the registered owner. Still on patrol at 12:52 a.m. on 147th Street N. and Finale Avenue, deputies cited a second motorist for the same offense.
• A propane heater was reported stolen from a construction site in the 15000 block of Grafton Avenue at 8:33 a.m. Jan. 22.
• Deputies answered an anonymous welfare check request on a male whose vehicle was seen at a bar in the 17000 block of Forest Blvd. N. early in the day and that was still there at 3:24 p.m. Jan. 22. On arrival, deputies observed the vehicle in question in the bar parking lot with the engine running. They spoke to the subject to confirm his sober ride plan.
• Residents in the 12000 block of Ingersoll Avenue N. at 7:26 p.m. Jan. 22 reported a possible tampering with their mailbox and passed on the description of the suspect and vehicle. The suspicious vehicle and driver were not to be found when deputies arrived on scene, however.
Loretta Harding
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Several men arrested for exploitation of minors
Six individuals were arrested between Jan. 28 and 30 following a targeted operation in Stillwater aimed at preventing the sexual exploitation of minors. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office, working with detectives from the Stillwater Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations and the Washington County Attorney’s Office, conducted the operation to identify people seeking to engage in commercial sex acts with 16-year-olds.
According to the sheriff’s office, undercover agents posed online as a 16-year-old girl, and multiple suspects arranged meetings intending to exchange money for sexual acts. Upon arrival at the predetermined location, the suspects were taken into custody.
The Washington County Attorney’s Office has charged Vishwateja Reddy Guntupally, Christopher James Kohn, Manuel Mateo Chunzho-Canar, Sanyi Mechalu Tefera, Terry Valentino Reynolds, and Dakota Robert Ott with prostitution-actor hires or agrees to hire and reasonably believes under 18 but at least 16, under Minn. Stat. 609.324(c)(3).
“Protecting children and vulnerable populations remains a top priority, and collaborative operations such as this are a critical component in disrupting exploitation and ensuring public safety,” said Sheriff Dan Starry.
“Operations such as this one take tremendous effort from both law enforcement officers and County Attorney’s Office staff. We are grateful for the commitment of everyone involved in this operation and in keeping our community safe,” said Washington County Attorney Kevin M. Magnuson.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office encourages community members to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity. Tips and information related to human trafficking can be reported to local law enforcement at 651- 430-7825.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Tips to build a robust emergency fund
Budgets and financial planning may seem easy when expenses are expected. But what happens when an illness forces a person to be out of work for a month or when a leaky roof necessitates costly replacement? Loss of income or large expenses may not be managed as easily as routine utility bills or grocery costs. Large or small, unplanned expenses seemingly crop up at the worst times. Building a secure emergency fund can help people weather the storm of unexpected expenses.
What is an emergency fund?
The financial resource and investment service Vanguard says an emergency fund is an amount of money set aside in a dedicated savings account for the purposes of providing a financial safety net. The money can be used to navigate unexpected medical bills, a job loss, car replacement, or other sizable expenditures. Without savings, even a minor financial shock can contribute to a situation that is challenging to overcome. If such expenses generate debt, that can
How much do I need?
The amount needed in an emergency fund varies depending on each person’s situation. However, Morgan Stanley suggests having enough to cover three to six months’ worth of expenses. The amount may vary if there are multiple income streams and should be affected by the number of dependents a person has.
How do I set up an emergency fund?
using a basic savings account or money market account and linking it to a checking account. The money should stay safe and liquid until it is needed. It should not be invested in stocks or even bonds, where balances can be affected by market risks. If the emergency fund is linked to an existing account, one can set up automatic deductions from the checking account to go toward deposits into the savings account. This is known as automatic recurring transfers. Setting a goal regarding
Review expenses to identify ways to save
Individuals can devote more savings toward an emergency fund if they routinely assess spending and then figure out where they can pare down. Non-essentials, such as dining out, streaming video services, travel, and other luxuries, can be reworked to potentially free up more money for an emergency account.
Address debt and prioritize building an emergency fund
Some people must balance building an emergency fund with paying off existing debts. Many financial experts suggest setting up a small emergency fund first, and then beginning to pay off highinterest debt with the ultimate goal of setting aside more money for the emergency fund. Any money saved on interest from paying off highinterest debt can be funneled back into savings down the road. An emergency fund can protect individuals from taking on debt and facilitate a quick rebound from an unexpected financial blow.
WEPAYHEAT &INTERNET
Loon Granite Rosemary
andArts Culture
EMERGING ARTIST: ETHAN ANDERSON
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Lake Area High School Senior Ethan Anderson admits that percussion is just hitting things. “But there’s 10,000 ways to hit a table, let alone one drum,” he added, quickly creating a syncopated rhythm with his fingers on a coffee table, “When you take a big ol’ drum set, there are tens and tens of thousands of ways to hit that drum set.”
Ethan began “hitting things” at age five—namely the piano. After his parents bought him a pair of drumsticks with Mickey Mouse heads at Disney World, Ethan began practicing percussion on buckets. He got his first drum set for his seventh birthday. Then, during COVID, he began composing songs.
“Everyone was supposed to do two or three measures,” recalled Ethan’s mother, Michelle Anderson, “and all of a
sudden, he wrote out an entire song.”
In high school, Ethan received the Woody Herman Jazz Award from WBLAHS former Band Director Jeremy Rockford. He has been lead stick in WBL Drumline three years running, and earned four superior ratings at Minnesota State High School League’s Region 4AA Solo/Ensemble Contest.
In recent years, however, Ethan feels that he has enhanced his connection with percussion as an art form. He credits this growth to WBLAHS current Band Director Shannon Anderson (no relation to Ethan or Michelle).
“With Ms. Anderson, instead of just playing at a higher level, I’m able to play at a deeper level,” Ethan remarked, “and understand what the notes are saying.” Ethan recently showed his community the depth and height of his abilities when the Minnesota Music Educators Association—after a rigorous audition process—selected his composition “The
Still Moments” to premiere at their Midwinter Clinic.
Ethan started working on “The Still Moments” in tenth grade after trying to mimic a guitar riff on marimba. “I added more to the beginning, but the main foundation of where the song starts is off of those five notes on marimba,” Ethan said.
WHITE BEAR HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ BAND’S NIGHT CLUB SCALES UP
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Jazz music has evolved. While big band and swing music are still cornerstones of the genre, jazz often crosses over with pop, funk, rock, latin and more. Therefore, White Bear Lake Area High School Jazz Band Director Shannon Anderson felt the annual Night Club event needed to evolve too.
Originally, Night Club mimicked a WWII-era USO show during which the North and South Campus Jazz Bands took turns playing sets of music during a dinner hour and subsequent dance. Anderson recalled that, starting in 2009, the format began shifting. This year, a variety of groups will play.
Anderson increased the amount of collaboration between the bands because many high school students enroll in multiple music programs. “We have lots of kids that cross over,” she commented, “now that we’re in one
CONTRIBUTED
The 44th annual Night Club will be Satuday, Feb. 21.
building … and we’re also in this beautiful music suite where we all see each other a little bit, even just in the hallway.”
The old Night Club format also did not give the student musicians a chance to enjoy the event. “If you’re doubling on another instrument, you can find yourself playing almost the whole night,” Anderson said. “That’s a lot of playing and not a lot of dancing.”
Before the dance officially starts, Jennelle Donnay from Awakened Dance will host a 30-minute, beginner-friendly swing lesson. Then, both
WBLAHS Jazz Bands will perform, followed by the Alumni Jazz Band. Jazztet will collaborate with The Mothers Band, and MMC Jazzed from the McNeely Music Center will headline the evening. The dance will close with all the bands performing a closing number.
Clearly, one thing about Night Club that has not changed is the good time it promises. “It’s the best-kept secret dance,” Anderson remarked. “It’s a lot of fun.”
The 44th annual Night Club runs from 6:35-10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 at WBLAHS Student Union 5045 Division Ave. Door A, White Bear Lake. For more information, scan the QR code.
LAKESHORE PLAYERS AND CENTURY COLLEGE CLOCK ‘10-MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL’
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Ten plays, 10 minutes apiece—the community favorite “10-Minute Play Festival” is back, but this time, Lakeshore Players is teaming up with Century College to make it happen. “The purpose was to get more of the community involved and get more of the college students involved,” said Abby Koel, who directs five of the plays. All 10 plays are original material and have never previously been performed. Lakeshore Players received over 200 submissions from playwrights around the world, with one from as far away as Japan. Then, Lakeshore chose 20 semifinalists for a read-aloud, at which community members offered feedback. From there, Koel, along with Director Allison Meuers and Production Manager Quinn
Masterson, gathered the public’s thoughts and chose the final 10.
By nature, the large number of plays necessitates a large cast. Thus, some actors appear in more than one play. “If you only have a small role, we want to make it worth your time, so we want to give you another role in another place. You don’t have to come out every week and just say one line,” Koel explained.
Koel added that the festival shows actors’ ranges of ability as well as her own. “You get to do comedy, you get to do drama, you get to make important statements about the world,” Koel said. “I think it’s so much fun.”
The 2026 10-Minute Play Festival runs Feb. 20-March 1 at Century College West Campus Theater, 3401 East County Line N., White Bear Lake. For tickets and details, visit lakeshoreplayers.org.
Describing “The Still Moments,” Ethan noted, “It’s easy to imagine the things that make you sad, angry, lost and afraid. For some, it’s also easy to think of the things that make you happy, hopeful and grateful. But what’s difficult is finding the things that make you still … ‘The Still Moments’ seeks to inspire that feeling.”
The WBLAHS Wind Ensemble recorded “The Still Moments” on Feb. 13, but Ethan will conduct the piece during an encore performance at 7 p.m. Monday, May 18, at the high school’s Performing Arts Center. After that, Ethan plans to major in percussion performance at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota. Until then, and likely long after, Ethan plans to continue hitting things. “I definitely goof around a lot in the percussion section—all with a good purpose,” he acknowledged. “All of percussion is seeing what sounds you can make and how to make it musical.”
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS SUMMER STOCK AUDITION SIGN-UP OPEN
Auditions are 5-9 p.m. April 15 and 16, and callbacks are 4-10 p.m. at Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake. To book an audition slot, visit childrensperformingartsmn.org/program/disneys-newsies-summerstock-intensive
DISNEY’S NEWSIES: THE MUSICAL Ages: 16-25
Dates: Rehearsals begin June 29. Performances are Aug. 7-16.
Details: Industry professionals will immerse participants of this five-week intensive production in acting, voice and dance classes. Cast members will also have opportunities to receive an actor website, professional headshot, private vocal coaching and performance workshops.
CALENDAR
SWEETHEART DANCE
Location: Mahtomedi Middle School, 8100 75th St. N., Mahtomedi
Dates: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20
Details: Calling all parents, grandparents or special family members of children ages 3-9—spend an evening filled with dancing, face-painting and crafting. Capture your memories of the night in a special photo booth. Pizza will be available.
MARINER BLACK HISTORY SHOWCASE
Location: Mariner Theater at Mariner Middle School, 3551 McKnight Road, White Bear Lake
Dates: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 26
Details: Middle school Black Student Union members are showcasing student works and performances in celebration of Black History Month. The event is open to all members of the public.
‘LIFE ON THE RUN: GANGSTERS ON WHITE BEAR LAKE’
Location: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake
Dates: 6-7 p.m. Tuesday, March 10
Details: Notorious, danger-
ous and enjoying lake life on White Bear Lake? Join the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society as they dive deep into some of the area’s most wanted guests. No registration is required.
MUSIC OF THE DECADES: THE 1960S
Location: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake
Dates: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 12
Details: Folk Revival MN will take a tour of music in and around the 1960s, diving deep into how and why our music developed and changed during this pivotal generation. No registration is required.
‘THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST’
Location: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Dates: March 13-March 22
Details: Oscar Wilde’s “trivial comedy for serious people” sees mistaken identities, alter egos and sharp wit. The timeless comedy skewers romance, society and the absurdities of British Victorian life in a brilliantly farcical romp. Learn more at lakeshoreplayers. org/earnest-season-73.
CONTRIBUTED
Ethan Anderson
Centerville holds open house Feb. 25
The city of Centerville will hold an open house from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at Centerville City Hall for residents, property owners and visi-
Seasonal Maintenance Worker
White Bear Township is accepting applications for Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions to assist in routine maintenance work including, but not limited to, the following: general maintenance of parks, streets, water, storm water, sanitary sewer, etc. Up to 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday, 7 AM to 3:30 PM (subject to change between Memorial Day – Labor Day).
Salary range from $18 to $21/ hour, depending on qualifications. A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is essential. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be able to pass pre-employment drug screening.
Applications are available Monday – Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM, at Township Administrative Office, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or online at www.whitebeartownship. org. Application deadline: Open until positions are filled.
tors to provide their feedback on the future vision for Downtown Centerville.
Residents can either attend the open house in person or provide their feedback through an online survey, surveymonkey.com/r/DowntownCen-
terville. For questions about the downtown study, contact City Administrator Athanasia Lewis at alewis@centervillemn.com or 651-429-3232. Centerville City Hall is located at 1880 Main St.
CITY OF MAHTOMEDI
SEASONAL FULL TIME EMPLOYMENT
MAINTENANCE WORKER
The City of Mahtomedi has openings for up to (4) full time Seasonal Maintenance Worker positions. All positions are for 67 days. Duties include assisting the Public Works Department with street, water, sewer, and park maintenance. Must have a High School diploma or GED, the ability to lift/move 25-100 Lbs., be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. The pay range is from $18.00/hr. to $20.00/ hr. depending on qualifications. Applications will be taken until positions are filled. Applications can be obtained at City Hall, 600 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN 55115 or at its website at www. mahtomedimn.gov. Mahtomedi is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
MAHTOMEDI VOLUNTEER FOR CITY COMMISSIONS
The City of Mahtomedi is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on advisory commissions. Openings for three-year appointments exist on the Planning Commission, Parks Commission, Environmental and Finance Commission. The Commissions serve as advisory bodies making recommendations within their areas of responsibility to the City Council.
If you are interested in serving the community in any of these capacities, please contact City Hall at 651-426-3344 for an application form. Applications are also available on the City’s website at www.mahtomedimn.gov. Applications will be taken through March 2, 2026.
JERENE ROGERS CITY CLERK
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SNOW DRAG TOUR: Legion, snowmobilers bring high speed action to Egg Lake
Club Manager Marcy Brake added, “We’ve been trying to be more visible in the community,” she said. “Chet, Dylan and Justin came here to tell me about (the event). They actually are customers of the Legion and have a deep relationship here also, so it just was a very good fit to help them out and to also be involved in something beyond our four walls.”
The Minnesota Snow Drag Tour began when co-founders Atkinson, John Anderson and Dylan Jeska were racing in Grand Marais. “You really didn’t know where you belong when you went to these races, so we put some classes and rules together and presented it to a couple event holders and got everybody on the same page,” Atkinson explained. Their idea turned into a race series that travels around Minnesota. Snowmobile racers hail from Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan and Wisconsin. This year, two events have already taken lace in Grand Marais and next up is Breezy Point, followed by Hugo, Grand Marais and Giants Ridge in Biwabik, Minnesota.
“Our attendance is a little less up in Grand Marias because it’s such a far drive. You get mostly just the diehards up there,” Atkinson said. He noted that some of their events can draw anywhere between 180 to 250 race entries.
The Hugo event will be side-by-side, 500-foot drag races with double elimination brackets. Atkinson expects approximately 90 racing entries but says they are hoping for a crowd of approximately 750, including spectators.
“It’s going to be something to see, that’s for sure,” he said.
The day will kick off at 9 a.m. with a drivers’ meeting. It will then run all day. The Legion will run a beer garden, and there will also be food trucks, ven-
GO DISCOVER.
dors and raffles. Brake says everyone is invited back to the Legion after the event for awards and a party. The event will be free for spectators, and the Legion will offer a shuttle to and from the Legion for people who want to park at Post 620. There will be a fee for people who want to enter the pit.
During the event, the Hugo Knight Riders will also host a “Show and Shine” so people can show off their snow machines.
Atkinson is hopeful these events will encourage more snowmobilers to get involved in the racing side of things.
“Snow drag racing has been growing vastly on the East Coast and in Canada. We see it starting to grow here, so we kind of put our foot in the door. We’ve been doing racing in northern Minnesota, and we feel that the city is missing out on it,” Atkinson explained. “We haven’t had any snow for the past two years, and we are struggling with snow this year, but if we can hold an event and draw more people into it and bring more people out to do what we do, that’s what the industry really needs.”
He added, “We want to see the life of snowmobiling stick around, so that’s what we are really pushing for and why we have entry level classes for people.”
Event organizers say the hope is that the Hugo stop of the tour will become an annual tradition.
“I used to go to events like this, so I know what they used to be … The excitement coming from these guys is amazing, so it should be fun,” Brake said. “It’s the first one, and it can only get better from here.”
For more information, visit www. mnsnowdragtour.com.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
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• Student-centered instruction.
We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates — that all can achieve.
• Expanded academic opportunities.
Our students explore their interests, excel and design their futures.
• Empowered, supported learning.
Students are agents and owners of their learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.
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Our educators facilitate learning and challenge students — fostering curiosity and confidence.
• Transformative learning.
Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.
Int’l Baccalaureate (IB) & Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion programs available!
Hugo American Legion Shootout:
When: Beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28
Where: Egg Lake and Hugo American Legion Post 620 Details: There will be side-byside, 500-foot drag races with double elimination brackets. Races include approximately 16 different classes. Event will also include a Show and Shine event, food, vendors, raffles and more. Spectators are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to park at the Legion and ride the shuttle over to Egg Lake. More info: www. mnsnowdragtour.com
The White Bear Lake Area School District offers a choice of K-5 programs:
• Neighborhood schools: Strong academic programs are offered at neighborhood schools located throughout the District.
• International Baccalaureate: Matoska International is available to all students in the White Bear Lake Area School District. The program is an International Baccalaureate (IB) world school. The District provides transportation from any point in the school district for resident students enrolled at this school. Learn more at the Matoska International website.
• Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion: An Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion program is available at Matoska International and Otter Lake Elementary. The District will provide transportation from any point in the school district for resident students enrolled in this program. Learn more at the Immersion page of the website.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
(From left)Chet Atkinson, Dylan Jeska and John Anderson are the three co-founders of the Minnesota Snow Drag Tour, which is now in its third season.
An aerial view of a previous stop on the Snow Drag Tour.
Graff reaches 1,000 while leading Zephyrs payback win
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Mark Graff scored his 1,000th point and led Mahtomedi to a payback win over St. Thomas Academy 8655 at home Wednesday evening.
The Zephrys, 19-3 and ranked fourth in Class 3A, then routed North St. Paul 78-44 on Friday and St. Paul Highland Park 83-57 on Saturday.
Graff, senior guard, needed three points to reach the milestone and got it with the first of his five 3-pointers. He finished with 33 points and seven rebounds.
Grace Prose, both juniors.
Mahtomedi (17-3) had lost to STA (10-11) on their court Jan. 9. In the rematch the Zephyrs trailed 12-7 before going on a 25-1 run.
Cougar icemen beat Mustangs, Totino
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
“He is an amazing leader on our team and in our school,” coach Keith Newman said about Graff, also the football team’s quarterback. “He contributes in so many ways in his sports but also as a leader in the building. Truly a person who has many gifts and uses them well to help both himself, but more importantly others.”
Graff, currently averaging 20 points, is the third Mahtomedi player to pass 1,000 this season, following Willie Roelofs and
Roelofs tallied 23 points (7-for-7 at the line) and six rebounds. Noah Carlson notched six points, seven rebounds, three assists and three steals, and held STA’s top scorer Lars Osteraas to seven points. Against North, Carlson had 22 points, Roelofs 20 (six rebounds, six assists), Graff 19 (5-for-6 on three’s) and Joey Wright seven points, six rebounds and four assists. Against Highland Park, Roelofs logged 21 points (10 rebounds, three steals), Graff 18 points (eight rebounds, seven assists), Carlson 14 points and Wright 11.
Centennial boys hockey closed the regular season with two conference wins last week, over Mounds View 8-4 at home Tuesday and Totino-Grace 5-1 there Thursday.
Centennial claimed third place of 10 teams in the Northwest Suburban Conference with a 9-4 record behind Rogers (10-0) and Elk River (9-2-1). The Cougars are 16-9 with six wins in their last seven games. They are seeded third in Section 5AA and will host Champlin Park on Wednesday, Feb.18 at 7 p.m.
“The guys have really bought into what we’ve asked them to do,” said Coach Ritch Menne about the late-season surge.
“They’ve strung some really good practices together which has carried over to their success during games. It’s a very tight group, really playing hard for one another. It’s really been fun to sit back and watch this group.”
Scoring against the Mustangs were Kaden Johnson (two), Tanner Dittrich, Joey Hemr, Gavin Cunningham, Cooper Daikawa, Nolan Border and Isaak Adams. Nick Carls made three assists. Against Totino-Grace, Border netted two goals and Hemr, Daikawa and Kelle Searles one each. Carls made three assists and Eddy Dropps and Cunningham two each. Flynn Sanburg in goal stopped 22 of 23 shots.
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Joey Hemr fires the puck for a power play goal against Mounds View.
BETH DONAHUE | CONTRIBUTED Mark Graff scored 33 points including his 1,000th against St. Thomas Academy.
Hugo American Legion Post 620: Community hub honored for quality and
BY SHIVAM VASHISHTHA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
In honor of Fish Fry season, the Press will feature some Readers’ Choice Best of the Press winners and finalists of the Fish Fry category in our coverage area.
For the Hugo American Legion Post 620, the Best of the Press recognition isn’t just about food — it’s about community.
“We’ve spent the last year and a half building our staff and promoting consistency and quality,” said Club Manager Marcy Brake. “It’s recognition of the effort that we’ve put in, and it’s a big deal to us because we’ve been working very hard at it.”
Post 620 rose to the top as a winner in 13 categories for the 2025 Best of the Press Readers’ Choice Best of the Press Contest in The Citizen market. Since Fish Fry season, it’s important to mention that the Legion rose to the top of the Fish Fry category with its Friday special. All year round, not just during Lent, customers can enjoy crispy Bluegill filets.
“It’s not heavily breaded. We dredge and season in in house and then serve it with our award-winning fries, tartar sauce and a lemon wedge,” Brake detailed.
At the heart of Post 620’s success is a simple philosophy: everyone is welcome. Staff members pride themselves on making the Legion not just a gathering space for veterans, but a place for all community members to share a meal, catch up with friends and enjoy the familiar comfort of good
The Citizen Readers’ Choice 2025 Best of the Press categories won:
• Best Fish Fry
• Best Appetizer
• Best Appetizer Selection
• Best Bar
• Best Cheese Curds
• Best French Fries
• Best Hamburger
• Best Happy Hour
• Best Lunch
• Best Salad
• Best BartenderCarley Brake
• Best ServerBrittany Viskoe
service.
“All are welcome. Everyone deserves a good meal and a place to commune together,” Brake said, adding that the Legion frequently donates food to a contact who provides it to the homeless.
Kitchen Manager Janel Marier said community connection is central to what sets the Legion apart. The team regularly interacts with guests, listens closely to feedback and tailors offerings to what customers are looking for. From providing samples to mingling with regulars, their focus is on engagement and genuine hospitality.
That community-first approach is reflected in their expanding menu. The Legion recently introduced a new lineup that’s already gaining fans — including a raspberry cream cheese and jalapeño jelly hamburger that’s turning heads,
and a comforting beef stroganoff that’s quickly become a favorite. “We just released a new menu, and both of those items are part of it,” Marier noted.
“We’ve also started serving breakfast every Sunday starting at 10 a.m.”
Beyond the menu, Post 620 continues to build on its reputation as a lively community hub. The banquet hall is busier than ever, hosting events from
bourbon tastings to Halloween parties and even NFL “Salute to Service” gatherings with the Minnesota Vikings. The Legion also regularly welcomes live music acts like Hollywood Avenue and looks forward to its annual Rib Contest in April, part of the national American Legion Family Day celebration. Brake says local contests like Best of the Press help spotlight businesses that people might
not have discovered otherwise. “It’s really important for bringing awareness to the community,” she said. “It’s good marketing, and helps people realize there are great places right in their own backyard.”
Shivam Vashishtha is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at news@presspubs.com.
The Hugo Legion rose to the top of the Fish Fry category with its Friday special. All year round, not just during Lent, customers can enjoy crispy Bluegill filets.