Independence Day
4th of July events
Forest Lake
FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
When: schedule TBD. Wednesday, July 3-Sunday, July 7
Where: Lakeside Memorial Park, 95 East Broadway Avenue, Forest Lake, MN 55025
Details: Hosted by the Forest Lake American Legion Post 225. Carnival games, rides, and food. Fireworks will take place at 10 p.m. on July 4th
Contact: 651-209-9723
Lake Elmo
JULY 4TH KIDS PARADE & ACTIVITIES
When: 10 a.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: Downtown Lake Elmo, Main Street
Details: Decorate your wagon, shoelaces, bike, or tractor for this 36th annual event featuring face painting, kids parade, ice cream social, dunk tank, fire trucks, and more.
Contact: 651-474-3900
White Bear Lake
FIREWORKS OVER THE LAKE
When: 6-10:00 p.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: West Park and Memorial Beach, White Bear Lake
Details: Live Music, Playground, Food, Beach, Plane Flyover.
Fireworks show begins at 10 p.m. Places to watch fireworks are West Park, Memorial Beach, Ramsey
VFW AUXILIARY 4TH OF JULY
PANCAKE BREAKFAST
When: 9 a.m.-noon Thursday, July 4
Where: Ameirican Legion, 2210 3rd St., White Bear Lake
Details: Annual event held at American Legion due to VFW remodel. Net proceeds support VFW 1782 Auxiliary programs.
BIRCHWOOD 4TH OF JULY PARADE
When: 9:30 a.m. Thursday, July 4
Where: Birchwood Ave. and East
HUGO — Finding the Golden Spike is a family endeavor.
The Simanek family has looked for the Spike before, but never expected to be the ones to find it in 2024.
“I think (they) really got into it this year,” said Nicole, of her three children Eli, Sophie and Chloe.
The family has lived in Hugo since 2001 and learned about the hunt for the Golden Spike by reading the paper.
After school let out the week of Good Neighbor
Hugo considers ban on solar farms
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Residents who have an opinion on whether the city should allow solar farms should plan to be at City Hall at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 11.
An interim ordinance placing a temporary sixmonth moratorium on new development of solar farm energy systems is currently in place so that a study can be conducted. City Administrator Bryan Bear explained that in the past when the city has studied the solar farm topic, it has held a joint workshop with the Planning Commission to come up with a vision for the study.
SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
The Simanek family is a little bit richer after finding the Golden Spike in Lions Volunteer Park. Pictured (from left) are: Ben, Eli, Sophie and Nicole Simanek along with Heartland Credit Union Branch Manager Jennifer Madison. Not pictured in Chloe.
CALENDAR: Communities
County Line Rd.
Details: Community members can participate in parade; lineup begins at 9 a.m. WHITE BEAR LAKE INDEPENDENCE DAY BOAT PARADE
When: Noon Thursday, July 4
Where: Lineup starts at Mahtomedi Beach
Details: Decorate a boat to participate in the parade, or watch from the shore. Boats line up at 11:45 a.m. at Mahtomedi Beach and ends at Commercial Bay. Time and direction is weather and wind-dependent. See facebook for updates day of event.
Contact: Facebook: White Bear Lake Boat Parade
Stillwater
4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS
When: 10-11 p.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: Lowell Park, 201 Water St. N, Details: Live music starting at 5:30, Fireworks show will begin at dusk
over the St. Croix River and the Historic Lift Bridge
Contact: 651-351-1717
LIGHT A SPARK
When: 7:30-10:30 p.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: Stillwater Public Library Terrace, 224 Third St. N.
Details: Hosted by the Stillwater Public Library Foundation. The night includes food, cash bar, games and a view of the fireworks. Contact: 651-504-2350, splf@ stillwaterlibraryfoundation.org
Maplewood
LIGHT IT UP MAPLEWOOD
When: 4-10:30 p.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: Hazelwood Park, 1663 County Road C., Maplewood
Details: Bounce houses, yard games, food trucks, a live band, and fireworks. 4 p.m. start, 6:30 p.m. live music, and 10 p.m. fireworks show. Contact: (651) 249-2111
Come out to Pine Tree Orchard to enjoy Minnesota Grown Strawberries. And those fresh strawberry pies and other treats from our bakery…Oh My! Call after June 17 for a harvest update. 651 429-7202
of White Bear Lake www.pinetreeappleorchard.com
Marine on St. Croix
MARINE 4TH OF JULY RACE
When: 9:15 a.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: Hay Lake Schools Lions Pavilion, 14001 Old Marine Trail N. Marine on St. Croix
Details: 2 mile and 4 mile running races to benefit the Marine on St. Croix Restoration society. Register online through July 2 or on site morning of the race. Contact: marineonstcroix.org/ fourthofjulyBeach.
Woodbury
4TH OF JULY HOMETOWN CELEBRATION
When: 5:30-10p.m. Thursday, July 4th
Where: 4125 Radio Dr, Woodbury, MN
Details: Hosted by Woodbury Parks & Recreation. Featuring live music, food trucks, kids zone, and a fireworks display. Fireworks show begins 10 p.m. Contact: 651-714-3583
CENTERVILLE TIDBITS
• The new owners (Prince Pal Singh) of the Liquor Barrel at 1875 Main St. will take over the current liquor license, after council unanimously approved an Off-Sale Liquor License and Tobacco License for the establishment, effective July 1. The applicant submitted all appropriate applications and fees and received a successful background check through the Centennial Lakes Police Department.
• The much-celebrated St. Genevieve’s annual Parish Festival and Chicken Dinner, scheduled for Aug. 18 from 11 a.m.to 4 p.m., will go on as planned, after council unanimously approved its request for a special event permit on private property, temporary on-sale liquor
Afton
4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION
When: 1 p.m. Thursday, July 4
Where: Main Street, Afton
Details: Food, drinks, music, trolley rides, and a traditional Fourth of July parade. Contact: 612-720-6478, info@ aftonparade.com
Coon Rapids
4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION
When: Tuesday, July 2- Thursday, July 4th
Where: Boulevard Plaza, 11002 Crooked Lake Blvd
Details: carnival, food trucks, fireworks and more. The Firecracker 5K at 8 a.m. and the Kids Sparkler Dash at 9:15 a.m on July 4th. Fireworks show at 10 p.m. on July 4th. Contact: 763-755-2880
license and temporary gambling license. The police department, the Centennial Fire District and the public works department all approved of the event.
• The city has applied for and received a grant in the amount of $5,000 for the Smart Irrigation Controller Rebate Program from the Metropolitan Council. City staff petitioned council to waive the plumbing permit fee of at least $41 required for the inspection of the replacement controller, which council did.
• After 22 years of volunteer service with the city, Parks & Recreation Committee member Suzanne Seeley tendered her resignation/retirement. Council Member Raye Taylor thanked Seeley
personally and on behalf of the city. “At one time, I thought I was the longest standing volunteer for the city, until I discovered how long Suzanne has been active,” Mayor D. Love said. “But now I may have moved up in the standings,” he said. Seeley thanked the city for the opportunity to serve the community, saying she enjoyed every minute of it. With Seeley’s Parks & Recreation Committee seat now vacant, there is now another opportunity for someone to serve the community, Love said.
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m., Monday, July 24 at City Hall, 1880 Main St. Loretta Harding
Gryffin is a fun little guy and would be a perfect playmate for another accepting and social dog. He gets along very well with other dogs and even with cats, and he is friendly with people he gets to know and trust. He can be shy and a bit timid towards new people at first, but typically warms up quickly as soon as trust is established. Gryffin is a 3-year-old hound/Beagle mix and he weighs about 38 pounds. He is house trained, crate trained and he knows his basic commands. Gryffin would do wonderfully in a loving forever home with a securely fenced yard because he loves his outdoor playtime and playing with his toys. And, as noted, Gryffin would like to have a doggy playmate. When he is not playing, Gryffin is a cuddler and enjoys relaxing with his people. Gryffin arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter. Persons interested in learning more about Gryffin or adopting him, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org.
WEEKLY WAG
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Bald Eagle Waterski Shows
BALD EAGLE WATERSKI SHOWS
When: 7 p.m. Thursdays, June 13 through end of August Where: Trailside Park, Centerville
Details: Volunteer team of waterskiers performs weekly throughout the summer, and travels throughout Minnesota to perform weekend shows.
Contact: baldeaglewaterskishows.net
ONGOING EVENTS
MARKETFEST
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, June 13 through July 25
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake
Details: Community summer festival with 200+ food and vendor booths, live music, car show, kids activities, specials at local merchants. Theme weeks include: Avenue of the Arts on June 13; History Night June 20, and White Bear Lake Area Schools June 27.
Contact: marketfestwbl.com
WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Friday, June 28 through Oct.
Where: Clark Street between Second and Third Streets
Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week. Contact: whitebearlake.org
CURRENT EVENTS
FILLEBROWN FRIDAYS
When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, June 28
Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave.
Details: Self-guided tour of the 1879 Red Chalet Cottage on White Bear Lake and refreshements on the porch. Contact: whitebearhistory.org
ARTISAN AND VENDOR FAIR
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 29
Where: Hippodrome Ice Arena, 4855 Bloom Avenue
Details: Crafters, makers, boutiques, and vendors. Contact: sunriseeventsandcraftshows.com
LEARN TO STAND UP PADDLEBOARD
When: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 29
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve
Details: Instruction followed by time on the water. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
FREE PADDLE BOARD AND KAYAK SESSION
When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, June 29
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve
Details: Try equipment for free and receive basic instruction. Ages 12+. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
CAMPFIRE TALKS WITH A NATURALIST
When: 7-7:45 p.m. Saturday, June 29
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Campground
Details: Family-friendly naturalist-led presentation on Wild Cats. Free.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
VETSFEST 2024
When: June 29 & 30
Where: Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, 8390 Lofton Ave. N,
Grant Details: Event organized by Vets for Music includes live music performances... Contact: gasthausbavarianhunter.com
Tough Mudder returns to Hugo
BY OLIVIA DECKER PRESS INTERN
The Twin Cities’ toughest athletes are heading to Hugo June 29 and 30 to take on the Tough Mudder, an obstacle course series designed to maximize the mental and physical grit of its participants. This year marks the eighth year Hugo will host the event.
Athletes, or “Mudders,” will conquer either a 5K course with over 12 obstacles or a 15K course with over 20 obstacles.
Tough Mudder obstacles challenge athletes in unique ways, some so unusual you
couldn’t even train for them. An example includes electroshock therapy, an obstacle in which participants run through a structure of dangling wires with 10,000 volts sizzling through.
“There are not many recommended ways to train for this obstacle,” according to the Tough Mudder website. “In the end, just close your eyes and run.”
Other daunting obstacles include the “Arctic Enigma,” “Mudderhorn” and “Blockness Monster.”
Those uninterested in tackling the obstacle course should check out the Mudder Village Festival, an experience designed
for everyone to enjoy live entertainment, local food and drinks and to spectate athletes on the course.
Participants will begin their journeys at the Wild Wings of Oneka Hunting Preserve at 8 a.m. Saturday and activities are expected to end around 4:30 p.m. Sunday.
Mudders are expected to use teamwork and camaraderie to help everyone to the finish line.
“The way we see it, you are there to have fun and challenge yourself,” says the Tough Mudder website. “As hardcore as our courses are, there are plenty of reasons to smile.”
KEEGANS 5K FOR CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS AWARENESS
When: 9 a.m. Sunday, June 30
Where: West Park, 2350 11th Street
Details: Noncompetitive 5K run/walk along the lake organized by local family.
Contact: sites.google.com/site/ keegans5kforcranioawareness
ANNUAL PET PARADE AND BLESSINGS
When: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sunday, June 30
Where: St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, 2175 First Street
Details: Pet parade followed by blessing. Pet-friendly outdoor worship service at 10 a.m.
Contact: manitoudays.com
WBL TRIAD CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM FOR SENIORS
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Monday July 8
Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2484 Cty Rd F East
Details: White Bear Lake Police Department and Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office will present information on senior safety. Coffee and cookies provided. Free event.
Contact: 651-407-5322
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 9
Where: Veterans Memorial Park (Triangle Park), Mahtomedi
Details: Hike neighborhoods and trail along White Bear Lake. Treats follow at Wildwood Tavern.
Contact: stpaulhike.com
CAR SEAT CLINIC
When: 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, July 9
Where: Mahtomedi Fire Hall, 800 Stillwater Rd.
Details: Certified car seat technicians are on hand to properly install children’s car seats. Free; appointment required by e-mail.
Contact: cpsdiana@hotmail.com
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, July 10
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes
Details: Free naturalist-led program for ages 16+. May include trail hike. Registration not required; equipment provided. Contact: 763-324-3350 or anokacountyparks.com
• City Administrator Bryan Bear will receive a salary adjustment thanks to a successful performance review. Bear has worked for the city for 20 years. Mayor Tom Weidt said the council finds that he “exceeds expectations” and that he has “earned the respect of his peers in the east metro and beyond.”
• There is a vacancy on the parks commission. Emily McGinnity recently submitted her resignation. She has served on the commission since February 2021.
• Dennis Palmer, owner of 5383 Ferrara Ave. N. can construct an eight-foot by 10-foot concrete pad within a drainage and utility easement after the council approved an encroachment agreement.
• The city continues to pay its bills for the 2024 street project on 125th Street and the Dellwood Ridge neighborhood project. Most recently, the council signed off on pay request no. 1 for $276,808 to Dresel Contracting, Inc.
• The Forest Lake Historical Society and the Hopkins Schoolhouse preservation committee will host a wine tasting fundraiser Sept. 14 at the Peder Pedersen Pavilion in Lions Volunteer Park. Funds will go toward renovations at the old schoolhouse.
• Bill the Juggler will perform at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 12 at Lions Volunteer Park. The show, which is geared at children ages 5 and older (along with their families), is hosted by the Washington County Library.
The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, July 1 at City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
HUGO BITS & PIECES
CONTRIBUTED
Brian Kindelberger (left) has been promoted to lieutenant, and Darek Albertson (right) has been promoted to engineer. Also pictured in Fire Chief Jim Compton Jr.
Runners travel along the rolling hills at Wild Wings of Oneka Hunting Preserve in Hugo.
The little guys
For the last decade that I have been working as a journalist I have received several awards, but this was a first.
I recently attended the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists (MNSPJ) Page One Awards to receive a third-place award in the feature writing category for the “Faces of Fentanyl” story that was published in several of our publications back in October.
Shannon’s Shenanigans
Shannon Granholm
The story detailed the journeys of area residents Laura Cowles, Heather Johnson and Zach Zacho, who all outlived their children, who were victims of a fentanyl overdose.
For several years now I have entered the Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA) Better Newspaper Contest in hopes of winning an award. This year when I entered and didn’t receive an award, I was disheartened. When I saw an email about the MNSPJ awards contest, which I had never entered, I thought hmmm should I try?
I spoke with our photographer Paul Dols, who said he had attended the MNSPJ awards banquet in the past and enjoyed their guest speakers. He encouraged me to enter and so I did. I submitted a feature story and some of my more personal columns that have talked about the loss of my German shepherd Frosty, my grandfather and my personal journey with postpartum depression.
Back in February, I received an email letting me know that I had won an award, but it didn’t give any more information than that. Up until the banquet, I had no idea what I won for, what category the award was in or what place I got.
I was so thrilled to receive an award, especially for such an important story that has affected so many lives. This year’s contest had well over 500 entries from across the state. Of course, once I found out I received third place, the competitor in me started to come out and I was a bit disappointed I didn’t get second, or even first place. Perhaps it is all those years of competing in figure skating, where second place just wasn’t good enough for me.
At the banquet, I was reminded that I was up against all the “big guys.” In almost every category, awards were given to the Star Tribune, Minnesota Public Radio and the Pioneer Press. So, I was happy to represent the “little guys.”
We “little guys” are often forgotten about. Those bigger media outlets may cover the controversial topics when there are 250 people packed into city hall, but what about the little guys who are always there, even when we are the only one in the audience. We are still here.
So, here’s to the little guys who are still around and work every day to produce LOCAL news the communities, outside of Minneapolis and St. Paul, deserve. Thank you to our readers and subscribers who continue to trust us and support us.
Although we don’t do this job for awards, it sure feels nice to be recognized and reminded that what we do matters.
Shannon Granholm is the Managing Editor at Press Publications. She can be reached by emailing citizennews@presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1200
Shannon Granholm received a third-place award in the feature writing category at the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists Page One Awards banquet at The Lowlands in St. Paul.
What is a community service officer?
My name is Chad Ziemer and I work as a community service officer for the Centennial Lakes Police Department. I have been on the job for just under a year now, and the most frequent question I get from friends and neighbors is, “What is a community service officer and how are they different from a police officer?”
Cop’s Corner
Chad Ziemer
A community service officer (CSO) is a non-sworn employee of a police department who performs delegated duties authorized by local city ordinance. CSOs are typically college-aged individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Becoming a CSO is a great way for someone to gain experience that will benefit them if they become a police officer someday. Because CSOs work closely with police officers on a daily basis, they get firsthand knowledge of police work. When applying for a police officer position at a department,
• Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election. Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that. Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $45 fee. Please call 651407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.”
• Letters for or against a
this background often provides them an advantage over other candidates without similar experience.
CSOs have the ability to enforce local city ordinance, but their main objective is education. A CSO’s goal is to help citizens understand the ordinances. Whether it is providing residents with printed copies of the ordinance violation, or leaving a notice on scene, CSOs make every effort to inform citizens of the city ordinance and work with them in rectifying issues. Frequently, our CSOs provide residents with reasonable time to remedy the violations. If the issues persist, a citation could be issued.
Like police officers, CSOs patrol the city in a squad and respond to various low-risk calls. These calls include found property, motorist assists, vehicle lockouts, and animal calls. The most common of these calls are animal related.
If a wild animal is orphaned or creating a safety concern on a resident’s private property, CSOs might relocate the animal or bring it to a wildlife rehabilitation center. If your dog is lost, a CSO is likely to be the one to find and return it safely home.
CSO’s also provide a variety of administrative and
supportive functions for their police department. We bring police squads to the auto shop for regular maintenance, take fingerprints for local residents needing employment backgrounds, deliver evidence to the local sheriff’s office for forensic work, serve as courier between the police department and city hall for official documents, and transport arrestees to county jail if the arresting officer is tied up with other duties. CSO’s may also respond to medical calls to assist officers, and we often help direct traffic during motor vehicle crashes.
Perhaps the most vital function of a CSO is community engagement. You might see a CSO at a local parade, trunk or treat event, bicycle safety course, or Night to Unite block party. There we hand out candy, police stickers, and department swag. We also have the privilege of mentoring youth at local elementary schools. If you ever see CSOs patrolling through your neighborhood or park, wave them down and ask for a police sticker.
Chad Ziemer is a community service officer with the Centennial Lakes Police Department.
THE CITIZEN | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
candidate will qualify as paid letters.
Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification.
Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
Letters are meant to express opinions. If letter-writers include facts, they must attribute those facts to a reputable source.
Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not
be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits. Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.
Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters.
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• All letters are subject to editing. We reserve the right to not publish any letter. The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication. The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov.5 election will be printed in the Oct. 17 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.9 .
To submit a letter, email news@presspubs.com or mail/ deliver it to Press Publications.
Hold him accountable
It’s official: After making secret hush money payments to an adult film star 11 days before the 2016 election and falsifying official filings to hide the truth from the public, Donald Trump has been found guilty by a New York jury.
Trump’s conviction in New York should remind us all that no one—including a former president—is above the law. It should also remind us of the danger that Trump still poses to our democracy.
In the final weeks of the 2016 election, Trump covered up his affair with Stormy Daniels to dupe voters and improve his chances of winning the election. As it turns out, this would only be his first foray into undermining our elections. The New York trial may be over, but Donald Trump still faces three additional indictments and 54 criminal charges for a litany of crimes, including federal charges for his efforts to incite violence and overturn the will of voters after he knew he’d lost the 2020 election.
This is a pattern. The jury has done their job to hold Trump accountable. Now, it’s time for the American people to do our part and hold him accountable at the ballot box.
Ramsey/Washington Recycling and Energy has announced that Trista Martinson will take over as the executive director.
The program is a partnership between Ramsey and Washington counties to manage waste responsibly.
The counties have worked collaboratively since the 1980s, and in 2016 purchased the Recycling and Energy Center in Newport to further work towards the shared goals of promoting waste reduction, material reuse, recycling and landfill diversion as meeting that state’s 75 percent recycling goal by 2030.
Recycling and Energy is governed by a joint power of the Recycling and Energy Board, which is comprised of commissioners from both counties. The organization serves over 800,000 residents and 70,000 businesses. The program views waste as a resource stream and works to extract maximum value from discarded materials.
PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF HUGO PLANNING COMMISSION
HEARING The Hugo Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 11th, 2024 at 7:00 pm at Hugo City Hall to consider amendments to Chapter 90 ZONING AND LAND USE, Article VI REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC USES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, Section 90-278 Solar Energy Systems, Subsection (d) Solar farms, in order to prohibit solar farms within the City. Anyone wishing to comment 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 June 27, 2024
Top 5 at PressPubs.com:
Week of June 16 – 22, 2024
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Centerville Planning Commission tables action on LaLonde property. Quad Community Press > News
Happy fourth of July, traditions over the years
Happy Fourth of July everyone! If you have plans, I hope you have fun and stay safe.
Over the years, I have spent the fourth doing a variety of different activities. Growing up, we used to go to my aunt and uncle’s house in Alexandria. They lived on Lake Latoka and a majority of the weekend was spent swimming on their beach, tubing behind their boat and fishing off of the dock. On the fourth, the resort lodge on the northeast side of the lake would have a fireworks show after dusk. We would lather on bug spray, bundle up in blankets, and take the boat out to the middle of the lake to watch the show. We would sporadically go back to the lake, but when the cousins got older it was harder to balance everyone’s schedule. Soon, my family and I started spending our Fourth of July in Forest Lake.
My best friend, Alica, and I had started our own tradition until she went away to college. The two of us would go to the carnival hosted by the American Legion Post 225 in Forest Lake. She would play the same game repeatedly till she won me a prize. In order to win the game, you had to shoot a water gun into the opening of a balloon. If you popped the balloon before your other competitors, you got to pick out a prize. I cannot tell you how much money we spent trying to win a prize that first year. The first prize was a basset hound stuffed animal with overly large, plastic eyes. We named it Bernard the basset hound. The following year, she won me a bright pink llama that was named Becky. The third year, the game was too expensive, but we still played one round for old time’s sake.
CALENDAR BRIEF
Bill the Juggler visits
Hugo
Join the Washington County Library for an entertaining
After spending too much time, and money, at the carnival we would drive back to my house, eat a quick dinner with my parents, collect a few blankets and bug spray before adventuring back out to watch the fireworks in Lakeside Park. Due to the amount of people who went, we used to get there three hours before the show was predicted to start. We would lay out all the blankets from my house on the grass, cover ourselves with bug spray, chat with our friends who were there and watch the show.
Since then, I haven’t watched the fireworks nor went to the Forest Lake carnival until last summer. Two years ago, I worked on the Fourth of July. Last year was the first time that I decided to make the trek back to Lakeside Park with my dad to watch the fireworks. We both wanted to do something festive and made the split decision that morning to go. Of course, we got there at least two hours early and found a spot away from the large crowds of people. Instead of a blanket, we brought lawn chairs, sparkling water and, of course, bug spray. The theme of last year’s show was ‘Star Wars’ and included iconic music from the movies. The show only lasted 15 minutes, but it was worth the wait. Forest Lake always has great fireworks show and I’m never disappointed afterwards.
This Fourth of July my family is headed up to Duluth to watch fireworks from the rooftop patio at a hotel we are spending the weekend at. The city puts on a show over Canal Park. I cannot imagine how awful the weekend traffic is going to be making the trek home, but it will be fun to start a new tradition with my family.
Madeline Dolby is a staff writer at Press Publications. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com.
performance by Bill the Juggler at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 12 at the Peder Pedersen Pavilion in Lions Volunteer Park, located at 5524 Upper 146th St. N. The fast-paced
show is geared for children ages 5 and older and includes a lot of audience participation.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville Sunday at 8:30 am St. John’s Site 14383 Forest Blvd N, Hugo Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
Susan Carlson Hugo
Madeline’s Mail
Madeline Dolby
COPS&COURTS
HUGO POLICE REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents:
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) deputies pulled over a speeder on Frenchman Road and Forest Blvd. N. at 12:02 a.m. May 12.
• A vehicle parked at the public DNR boat launch at the Oneka Lake boat landing at 12:42 p.m. May 12 received a ticket under the driver’s side windshield for displaying tabs that expired in March. A mobile data computer (MDC) check confirmed the expiration.
• The driver of a silver Chevrolet sedan was reported at 8:25 a.m. May 13 for ramming another vehicle stopped at the light on Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. and leaving the scene.
Despite the hit-and-run collision, the complainant’s vehicle sustained no visible damage.
• Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 4:08 p.m. May 13 on Forest Blvd. N. at 140th Street N. and cited the motorist for two undisclosed violations. They cited another motorist for undisclosed violations in the 10000 block of 170th Street N. at 8:44 a.m. May 15.
• Property damage was reported at 4:47 p.m. May 13 in the 4000 block of 162nd Way N.
• An adult male was cited for assault at 7:09 p.m. May 13 on 147th Street N. and Oneka Parkway N., following a report of an adult intimidating teenagers with a golf club.
• Deputies ticketed a motor vehicle parked in the 6000 block of 152nd Street N. at 7:49 a.m. May 14 for being on a city street while displaying registration that expired in April, after they confirmed the driver’s status with an MDC check.
• An odor of gas was reported at 7:12 p.m. May 14 in the 14000 block of Francesca Avenue N., with the people involved evacuated.
• A fight involving multiple juveniles was reported at 12:14 a.m. May 15 in the 15000 block of Foster Drive N.
• A doe was reported at 11:06 a.m. May 15 for threatening the complainant in the 15000 block of Enfield Avenue N. while protecting her fawn.
• A cell phone was reported lost at an unknown location in town at 6:03 p.m. May 15.
• A male in the 15000 block of Ingersoll Avenue N. at 7:10 p.m. May 15 was reported for burning a large fire without a permit. Deputies arrived on scene to oversee the fire being doused.
• A business in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 7:53 p.m. May 15 reported a disorderly customer who used to be in the store. Deputies advised the complainant to notify them if the subject were to return, so that he could be trespassed.
• A stolen vehicle was reported at 12:11 a.m. May 16 from the 15000 block of Foster Drive N.
• A commercial building in the 13000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. reported a skunk in the lobby at 6:31 a.m. May 16.
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS
Hugo fire seeks golfers
The Hugo Fire Department is searching for golfers to sign up for the second annual Hugo Fire Relief Association golf tournament Monday, July 15 at Forest Hill Golf Club in Forest Lake. Shotgun start will be at 1 p.m. Registration includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart and dinner. To register, visit https://www.hugofirerelief.org/golf . For questions, contact Ross Hoernemann at 651-785-3417 or call ross.hoernemann@ ci.hugo.mn.us.
Community service officers rescue wildlife
The Centennial Lakes Police Department has received a lot of rescue calls for animals lately. Most recently, the agency rescued baby woodpeckers from a downed tree and relocated a turtle.
• A resident in the 5000 block of French Drive N. at 2:00 p.m. May 16 reported receiving a phone call from a scammer claiming to be deputies from the WCSO and saying she had missed a court date and needed to pay a fine. The complainant knew she wasn’t expected at court and abruptly hung up.
• A resident in the 15000 block of Enfield Avenue N. at 3:48 p.m. May 16 reported a package stolen, as well as a credit card that was used fraudulently at various locations.
• Possible fraud was reported at 6:47 p.m. May 16 from the 5000 block of 129th Drive N., after the complainant gave her phone number and address to a customer, who could potentially access her bank accounts. So far, nothing suspicious has occurred.
• A juvenile fight was reported at 4:26 p.m. May 17 in the 4000 block of 149th Street N. The complainant told deputies the fight stemmed from the school district not taking action about bullying problems.
• A 911 emergency call at 1:50 p.m. May 18 from the 14000 block of Oneka Parkway N. turned out to have originated spontaneously from the caller’s back pocket.
• An ex-wife in the 4000 block of Victor Path N. at 1:52 p.m. May 18 reported her ex-husband for becoming angry and threatening her over child custody issues.
• A male picking up a friend in the Hugo Estates property 15000 block of Forest Blvd N. at 11:06 a.m. May 19 to reported the friend’s neighbor for harassing him and taking pictures of his car, as part of an ongoing issue. As the complainant was parked legally to pick up the friend to go to a hair appointment,
Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies advised both parties to separate and keep separated. Some advice on the Harassment Restraining Order process did not go amiss either.
• An anxious golfer was cited at 5:14 p.m. May 19 on Forest Blvd. N. and 170th Street N. for speeding 73 mph in a 55 mph zone. The driver told deputies he was enroute to his tee time.
• A pontoon boat was reported stolen at 6:14 p.m. May 19 from the 5000 block of 130th Street N.
• The driver’s door window of a Caterpillar back hoe was reported damaged in the 4000 block of 162nd Way N. at 12:33 p.m. May 20.
• A resident in the 6000 block of 150th Street N. on 1:57 p.m. May 20 reported $500 stolen via wire transfer.
• A motorist was cited at 5:56 p.m. May 20 for running the red light at the intersection of Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Road.
• A citation was issued to a resident of a group home in the 5000 block of 129th Drive N. at 8:17 a.m. May 21 for striking staff.
• A motorist was cited at 5:29 p.m. May 22 on Forest Blvd. N. Another motorist was cited at midnight May 23 on Fenway Avenue N. and 140th Street N. for failing to stop at a stop sign. The driver admitted to rolling right through the stop sign.
• A dad was cited at 8:27 a.m. May 23 on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Geneva Avenue N. for speeding 40 mph in a 30 mph zone. The driver admitted he was late taking his child to school. Another motorist was
cited at 11:23 a.m. May 23 on Fenway Blvd. N. and Fenway Blvd. Circle N. for speeding 44 mph in a 30 mph zone.
• A set of keys was reported found at 12:18 p.m. May 23 in the 7000 block of 147th Street N. Deputies stopped by the scene to pick up the keys and place them into the evidence room.
• Deputies cited five motorists along Forest Blvd. N. during a two-day period. At 9:26 p.m. May 23 they cited a motorist for speeding; at 4:18 p.m. May 24, they cited a motorist for expired registration; at 4:31 p.m. and at 4:58 p.m., they cited motorists for cellphone usage while driving. At 5:07 p.m., they cited a fifth motorist for using her cellphone while driving.
The driver stated she was trying to set up the phone, which conflicted with deputies’ observations of her actually talking on the phone while driving.
• A resident in the 12000 block of Fondant Trail N. at 9:10 p.m. May 24 reported the people across the pond for intentionally shining a light into his residence. When deputies located the light at the place across the way, they found it to be a solar security light covering their rear door.
• Deputies reported their squad car damaged at 11:41 p.m. May 24 in the 13000 block of Forest Blvd. N., during a traffic stop for a license plate light out.
When stopped, the driver slipped the transmission into reverse instead of park and rammed the front of the squad. No one was injured.
• A mysterious, self-opening garage door was reported at 3:36 a.m. May 25 in the 6000 block of 146th Street N. The son of the owner said the sound of the opening garage door woke him up, so he got up and saw that it was open.
• Residents in the 15000 block of Fanning Drive N. at 11:38 a.m. May 25 reported their name and address used to open a Verizon account.
• Noise from snowmobiles riding around on a lake in the 8000 block of 140th Street N. was reported at 12:16 p.m. May 25, as part of an ongoing concern. As the lake was on private property and the incident occurred in the middle of the day, no violation of Minnesota statute was found.
• The pest control services solicitor seen around many municipalities at the end of May, sometimes on a segway, but usually armed with a sophiticated electronic device, was reported at 1:33 p.m. May 25 in the 4000 block of 129th Street N. The male said he had paperwork for selling in Hugo.
• A motorist was arrested on warrant at 9:27 p.m. May 25 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N., following a traffic stop for turning from a non-turn lane and cutting off a fully marked off-duty police cruiser. The driver was taken into custody for the warrant and other traffic violations.
Loretta Harding
Firefighters visit Primrose
Hugo Firefighters recently visited Primrose School of Hugo to teach fire prevention to the daycare children. Daycares or schools interested in a visit from the fire department should reach out to the agency.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
How to road trip on a budget
The opportunities for adventure are endless when the car is fueled up with a full tank of gas and the open road awaits.
Road trips can be cost-conscious ways to travel, as they save travelers from having to contend with potentially expensive flights. However, there’s even more road trippers can do to save on their next excursions. Explore these moneysaving tips before hitting the open road.
• Improve fuel economy. There’s no avoiding the gas station on road trips, but there may be ways to stretch gas mileage. Make sure tires are properly inflated; have the vehicle serviced before leaving to change oil and check that everything is running efficiently; don’t overpack with lots of heavy cargo; and bring bikes along to explore certain areas without having to use the vehicle.
• Establish a daily budget. You can’t anticipate every expense, but you can make a plan and estimate what it will cost for the trip. Determine
resource Money Crashers says a typical fast-food meal costs just under $6, but fast casual places, like Chipotle and Panera, can run around $12 per person. Multiply those prices by three meals a day over the course of the trip, and that’s expensive. Instead, save dining out for a treat and pack non-perishable items or even sandwiches in a cooler to satisfy you while on the road.
• Book a suite or Airbnb. When traveling with the family, a suite or Airbnb might provide cheaper alternatives to a standard hotel room, since they likely have fully furnished kitchen facilities, laundry services and other extended-stay perks. The up-front cost may be more, but you’ll save in the long run on all the extras.
• Utilize any and all coupons. Retail coupon providers like Honey.com and RetailMeNot.com can help you find discounts on a variety of items. There also may be coupons for parking garages and area attractions.
• Find free entertainment. With a little research you can find
GOLDEN SPIKE: Hugo family works together in search while creating memories
Days, Eli dived into the clues and Sophie helped him search.
“They came back muddy one day,” Nicole recalled of their search efforts. “When I dropped them off, it was really cool to see all of the people looking for the spike.” She added that there were people of all ages, and a lot of families.
Nicole’s husband Ben even tried to help out by plugging the clues into ChatGPT. “It didn’t work,” he said. “It did not know about Hugo.”
Once Clue No. 6 came out that referenced PPP, Eli knew the spike was hidden somewhere in Lions Volunteer Park, as the PPP stands for Peder Pedersen Pavilion. Sophie explained that Clue No. 7 also solidified that location when it referenced pickle ball courts.
Other clues referenced City Council
members, which pointed to City Hall; and another clue referenced staying out of cemeteries, which pointed to St. John’s Cemetery adjacent to Lions Volunteer Park.
“It was fun to work together to solve the clues,” Eli said.
The day Good Neighbor Days kicked off, right after Clue No. 8 was released, Nicole decided to take a stroll through Lions Volunteer Park with the family dog Crosby. Eli couldn’t join her because he was at graduation rehearsal, and Sophie and her father Ben were helping Chloe move out of her college dorm room at Carleton College in Northfield.
“I was hoping he (Crosby) would sniff it out,” Nicole laughed. “I thought we would just go for a walk and see if we could see it while walking along the path.” Because of Clue No. 8, which
references Heaven, she knew the spike likely wouldn’t be on the ground.
She found the spike taped to a wooden post along the path that runs along 147th Street, just heading out of Lions Volunteer Park.
“Once I found it everyone came over, they were so excited for me,” she recalled. “People were cheering, people wanted to hold it and get their picture taken with it. It was great to see the community be a part of it.”
Nicole added, “I still can’t believe we found it, we were just having fun.”
The family doesn’t have any big plans for their $1,100 cash prize, but they had a great time making memories that will last forever.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
CONTRIBUTED
Nicole Simanek poses for a photo with the family dog Crosby to prove she located the Golden Spike.
Hunt for the Golden Spike: Clues explained
This year’s hunt for the Golden Spike ended after Clue No. 8 was released.
The Golden Spike was found taped to a wooden post along the path that runs along 147th Street near Lions Volunteer Park.
In case you wanted to see all of the clues, and learn a little bit more about each one, here are the explanations.
Clue No. 1
Golden Spike hunters, it’s time to get squirrely These first awesome clues released oh so early Plot and conspire with your get-rich-quick scheme When you find ol’ Spike – hurrah! - create a meme
Clue No. 1 explanation
It’s time to hunt for the 2024 Golden Spike hunt. Use your animal instincts to find the treasure.
Clue No. 2
Seek out a lake town in Washington County You know that you want to get the full bounty Stay above water and use Golden Ticket No need for pick, shovel or sticky wicket
Clue No. 2 explanation
It’s hidden in a town with many lakes. Hunters who not only find Spike but also visit local businesses to collect stamps on their Golden Ticket will win the full dollar amount offered as a reward. Also, no digging or swimming (or cricket?) is needed to find it!
Clue No. 3
Home of Good Neighbors, this hunt starts in Hugo Follow rules, be friendly and in communion Bring atlas and these clues wherever you know Including right to Heartland Credit Union
Clue No. 3 explanation
This hunt is just for fun – keep that in mind. Follow the rules and the clues and be courteous while hunting. And thank you to Heartland Credit Union for sponsoring these clues!
Clue No. 4
New or used! Hugo Equipment Company Is the place to buy a riding lawnmower
Think hard and have a real epiphany
Hunters slower will cower at your power
Away from the park you should run, skip or walk
All the while with your friends why not have a talk
At this first “real” clue, you really should not balk When find it you do, you’ll be in quite a shock
Clue No. 4 explanation
Quickly decide where to hunt. The Golden Spike is in a mowed area. You’ll have to walk there. Thanks to Hugo Equipment Company for sponsoring the Golden Ticket.
Clue No. 5
Props to the local American Legion
Now let’s get you to the Golden Spike region Not very distant from a busy Frenchman
While you’re hunting, I hope you have so much fun
Clue No. 5 explanation
Thanks to our Golden Ticket sponsors, among them Hugo American Legion. Spike is hidden in a region of the city near Frenchman.
Clue No. 6
This clue writer is one of the Wiseguys Pizza is his go-to sigma signature dish With the PPP he sure disqualifies Treasure discovery is his dying wish (P.S. Please do not hunt in cemeteries...)
Clue No. 6 explanation
PPP stands for Peder Pedersen Pavilion, which is in the park nearest to the hiding place. St. John’s Cemetery is near the treasure. Thanks to Wiseguys Pizza for sponsoring the Golden Ticket.
Clue No. 7
The sector of the city is where Bears roar
And where city council ambitions tend to soar
Where there’s a tourney on a pickleball court
And many kids playing in a playground fort
Clue No. 7 explanation
This clue is pretty straightforward. Shout out to the City of Hugo for sponsoring the Golden Ticket. Spike is hidden in White Bear School District, at a park that
makes you think of roaring, where there’s a pickleball court and a playground fort.
Clue No. 8
The “Key” to this clue isn’t “Automotive”
But our purpose is fun and promotive
Can’t stop this raging locomotive
I hope this hunt inspires the emotive OK, OK, I’ll give you more than clue 7
It’s time that you see where is heaven
This hunt hasn’t been for even steven
Just follow road number 147
Clue No. 8 explanation
Thanks to Key Automotive for sponsoring the clues. Follow 147th to Spike.
Clue No. 9
Circle in fours for good communication 13 unity and 2 celebration
Shed light on the clues, reach state of elation
Listen to each other’s interpretation
Clue No. 9 explanation
Four benches are circled in a park near the Golden Spike’s resting place. A “Finale” is a celebration, and two light poles from there you will find Spike. Onog, meaning “unity,” may be a linguistic root of Oneka, and 13 light poles from there you will find Spike.
Clue No. 10
This clue is the “clincher.” Go Timberwolves! 3 Posts with the most, our best in the middle
Play well in our house, Karl Anthony Towns
If Wolves win in 7, we dance and fiddle
For the next 20 years, our team knows no bounds
Clue No. 10 explanation
Spike is hidden by the middle of three posts in the ground, just down the road from Wellhouse No. 3, which is near Hugo Lions Volunteer Park.
Mathias Baden was the clue writer for the Golden Spike hunt 2024, Realtor with Edina Realty, former journalist, and current Lions Club International member.
Zephyrs fall to Totino-Grace 2-1, are state runners-up
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
scoreless seventh.
Mahtomedi outscored six playoff opponents 74-13 before being shut down by the Eagles, who allowed just four runs in seven section and state games.
Austin Felling, who had two of the four hits, praised Heifort. “He must have thrown 70 percent strikes. He had control of all three of his pitches. Their defense made all the plays, too.”
Totino-Grace, playing in the Northwest Suburban against Class 4A teams, started the season 0-5 but finished 19-8. To reach finals at state, Heifort blanked Little Falls 4-0 and Jake Rantz stymied Benilde-St. Margaret’s 2-0.
Ethan Felling, playing in his third state tournament, struck out seven in the first three innings but was nicked for two runs. Noah Hill had both RBI’s, on two-out singles in the first and third. The run in the third was exasperating as it came on an infield error, a bouncer through the hole to right and a blooper to center. “A couple weak hits,” Ethan Felling winced. “I’d rather get beat by hard-hit balls.”
Centennial lacrosse captain collects honors
BASEBALL
Brol Scherman, Centennial lacrosse captain, was named to the Star-Tribune’s All-Metro first team last week, while closing his career playing in his second state tournament. Scherman was also a finalist for the Mr. Lacrosse award. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound attacker logged 56 goals and 22 assists for a team that went 10-9 against a daunting schedule. In his career, Scherman racked up 162 goals and 68 assists, helping the Cougars win 47 of 68 games. He will play college lacrosse at Marquette in Michigan.
Mahtomedi is the state Class 3A baseball runner-up for the second straight season after losing in the finals to Totino-Grace 2-1 at Target Field. “It definitely hurts not winning,” said Ethan Felling, who lost the pitchers’ duel against T-G’s Tommy Heifort. Bbut in the grand scheme, we’re proud and super happy to make it that far again.”
Catching the junior lefty was his brother Austin Felling, a senior, in his first year as starting catcher. Those two and Jack Erickson were named to the All-Tournament team. “It was great to have my brother as catcher, too,” said Ethan. ‘“Something we will always remember.”
Those three and five other starters have been teammates for a long time.
“Eight of the nine starters have been together since we were eight or nine,” Austin Felling said. “For us to finish our senior year in the championship game at Target Field was really special.”
Zephyr teams have reached finals in five of the last eight state tournaments, nabbing titles in 2018 and 2021. They lost to New Prague last year 5-3 at CHS Field in St. Paul. For Totino-Grace, it was their first state baseball title in just their third state appearance.
Heifort, a junior right-hander, allowed just four hits, walked one and struck out eight. His fielders threw out two Zephyr baserunners. Felling worked six innings, allowing four hits and two walks, striking out nine. One run was unearned. Andrew Sokoll pitched a
Mahtomedi got a leadoff double by Max Strecker in the first but was thrown out at third in a hotbox play trying to advance on a grounder by Ethan Felling. Felling took second on the play. Erickson walked, and Mahtomedi tried a double steal. Eagle catcher Tyler Hand threw out Felling at third, ending the inning.
The Zephyrs finally got on the board in the sixth inning via a base running play after singles by Gunnar Sather and Austin Felling put runners at first and third with one out. Ethan Felling popped up on the first pitch, bringing up Erickson. Jacob Reubish, pinch-running, was caught off first base on a pickoff by Heifort, but hustled to second base and dived in safely, under a high throw to the shortstop. Meanwhile, Sather bolted for home and slid home safely head-first.
With the tying run in scoring position, though, Heifort got Erickson on a swinging third strike. Heifort then put the Zephyrs down 1-2-3 in the seventh, the last two by strikeouts.
Mahtomedi, coached by Rob Garry, finished 21-5, including state tournament wins over Northfield 8-1 and Grand Rapids 5-3.
Chosen for the all-tourney team were Ethan Felling, who pitched 10 innings, allowing three runs, and striking out 14; Austin Felling, who was 5-for-10 in the tournament; and Erickson, who was 4-for-8 with a double, triple, three runs and three RBI’s.
Centennial had two all-conference picks — pitcher/first baseman Aiden Lieser and shortstop Peyton Streit — while honorable mentions went to pitchers Josh Lee and Tyler Gruye and infielder Tyler Escobedo. All five are seniors. The Cougars were 12-12 overall, 4-8 in conference and 2-2 in the section. Lieser pitched 42.7 innings with 61 strikeouts, a 2.13 earned-run-average and 3-3 record. Lieser led with 22 runs-batted-in (RBI) while batting .400 with two homers, seven doubles and 12 runs. Streit led with a .436 batting average and 19 runs. He had eight RBIs. Jack Dagostino hit .246 with 13 RBIs. Jacob Hosfeld hit .333 in 11 games. Gruye pitched 37.7 innings with 23 strikeouts, a 3.35 earned-run-average (ERA) and 4-3 record. Lee pitched 45.7 innings with 57 strikeouts, a 2.45 ERA and 3-3 record. Luke Gunderman, the closer, had a 1.15 ERA in 24.3 innings over 11 games, notching three saves and a 2-2 record.
BOYS LACROSSE
Centennial had five players named to the All-Northwest Suburban team: midfielders Brol Scherman and Kellen Krumwiede, goalie Trenton Kramer, attacker Logan Adams and defenseman Jake Robinson, all seniors. Named All-Section 7 were Scherman, Adams, Krumwiede, and senior
midfielder Gavin Jorud. The Cougars were 10-9 overall, 6-2 in conference, won the section, and went 0-2 at state. All-conference honorable mentions went to LaCroix, Jorud and junior Larson Goerlitz. Additional honors for Scherman were Star-Tribune All-Metro first team and coaches association all-state. The leading scorers (goalsassists-points) were Adams (55-29-84), Scherman (56-22-78), Krumweide (35-27-62), Cunningham (22-24-46), Solomon Marshall (22-8-30) and Jorud (17-9-26). Kramer had a .519 save percentage. Sam Lewis, face-off specialist, won 52 percent of face-offs.
GIRLS LACROSSE
Four Centennial players were named to the All-Northwest Suburban team: midfielder Noelle Hemr, goalie Peyton Brezny, attacker Karley Lacis and defenseman Maria Waller, all seniors. Honorable mentions went to senior Madeline Perron, juniors Avery Sauber and Ella Weist, and sophomores Lillian Brause and Makenzi Munger. Leading scorers (goalsassists-points) were Hemr (32-18-50), Weist (27-3-30), Lacis (21-5-26), Munger (13-13-26) and Brausen (17-4-21). Brezny had a .404 save percentage. The Cougars were 9-6 overall and 5-4 in conference, and were section runner-up.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Austin Felling
White Bear Lake Baseball
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Brol Scherman
Centennial Lacrosse
Austin Felling capped his first year as starting catcher for Mahtomedi by banging five hits in ten at-bats in the state tournament, collecting an All-Tournament honor. Felling, who was a backup outfielder last season, proved to be reliable at blocking low pitches and other catcher’s duties for the Zephyrs. The 6-foot left-hander batted around .350 for the state Class 3A runners-up with an on-base percentage over .400. Felling was also a forward on the Zephyr hockey team that placed fourth in the state.
Brol Scherman, Centennial junior lacrosse standout, has netted 22 goals and provided seven assists for the Cougars (4-2) while notching 17 ground balls (a change of possession statistic). Scherman was all-conference as a sophomore with 36 goals and 28 assists. The recruiting website ILMCA said of him: “Endto-end playmaking machine with striking confidence both on and off the field. Versatile offensive threat with strong outside shooting and crease finishing skills. Magnetic team
Brol Scherman posed at Marquette University after signing to play lacrosse there.
BRUCE STRAND PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Gunnar Sather slid home on a double steal, ahead of the tag by T-G catcher Tyler Hand, with batter Jack Erickson looking on.
4th of July Holiday Early Deadlines
Tuesday, June 25 @ 10am for July 2 - 3 papers
Tuesday, July 2 @ 10 am for July 9 - 11 papers
651-407-1250
classified@presspubs.com
Scofields Decorating Interior, exterior painting/papering Free Estimates, Mark 612670-3740
Wanted to Buy WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142
EQUAL HOUSING
Thank
tation to city government $119,100.80$145,121.60. www.cityofspearfish.com
Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia seeks a passionate Choir Director to enhance our worship experience. This salaried role (12-16 hours per week) involves collaborating on worship planning, directing the choir, and engaging with the church community to create meaningful musical experiences. If you have a strong background in music and worship leadership, we invite you to join our team. Interested persons can email their resume and references to office@ elimscandia.org.
WHEN VETERINARY CARE is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack® flea/tick, mane dandruff, and allergy control At Tractor Supply® (www happyjackinc.com)
Miscellaneous
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OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844/220-9501 today!
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Seeking Choir Director
Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia seeks a passionate Choir Director to enhance our worship experience. This salaried role (12-16 hours per week) involves collaborating on worship planning, directing the choir, and engaging with the church community to create meaningful musical experiences. If you have a strong background in music and worship leadership, we invite you to join our team. Interested persons can email their resume and references to office@elimscandia.org.
Best Barbers Wanted V's Barbershop, a new upscale men's barbershop in White Bear Lake, is hiring barbers skilled in straight-edge shaving. V's offers men's styled cuts, shaves, and facials and we do them right.
V's provides a high-end environment that allows barbers to build a chair with high-end clients while earning higher wages in a positive environment. Team building and camaraderie within the shop are keys to success V's.
Please call Matt @763-245-8531 for more information.
Accounting Clerk/Administrative Assistant Summary: Basic bookkeeping, administrative duties, and light reception are the cornerstones of the position. Process routine accounts payable and accounts receivable, cash receipts, utility billing, and assist with greeting customers, answer phones, filing, copying, word processing, assist general public and contractors with applications, permits, and inspections. Must have good analytical skills, ability to operate office equipment, and have knowledge of computer operations and programs including Word, Outlook and Excel. Must have commitment to serve public, positive attitude, demonstrate initiative and have the ability to collaborate with others, work independently and take on new tasks, efficient, attention to details, and have strong communication skills.
Work Schedule: Mon. – Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (With the potential for one day a week at home if desired) 2024 Compensation: Hiring Range will be between $30.40-$32.98, DOQ plus an excellent benefits package. Apply: For more information and to apply; visit the Employment Opportunities section of the Town’s website: www.whitebeartownship.org. Send Resume and Town application by end of day June 24, 2024.
The City of Hugo, a rapidly growing suburb in Washington County, is seeking a recent graduate or qualified undergraduate or graduate student in the urban planning or related field to work as a community development intern. The salary is $18.00/hour. We anticipate the position to run at least six months and estimate a 40-hour work week. The internship program offers an opportunity to work on a wide range of areas and issues related to community development. The full job description and application are available on the City’s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us/employment, or at Hugo City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Ave. N., Hugo, MN 55038.
send your cover letter, resume, and completed application to Rachel Juba at Rjuba@ci.hugo.mn.us.
is Friday, July 12, 2024, at 4:30 p.m.
Developer pulls out of LaLonde property project
LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The shocking development turned out to be no development. At least not at the LaLonde property. At least not now.
The Centerville City Council, along with the crowds planning to attend the June 12 meeting might have gotten a good night’s sleep and eaten a substantial dinner to best face what was expected to be a marathon Tax Increment Financing public hearing associated with the development of the LaLonde property at 1687 Westview St.
Instead, everyone went home early and maybe out to dinner again, after the developer, Ten Nineteen Development, LLC, withdrew their application for a preliminary plan and conditional use permit for a planned unit development just prior to the meeting.
Before council was a resolution to approve the modification of the development program for the development district, establishing a tax increment financing district therein and approving a tax increment financing plan for the LaLonde property and surrounding area.
Although council canceled the public hearing, the public was given an opportunity to speak during a regular public forum.
Centerville citizens came to make
their voices heard, and that is what some of them stayed to do. Nine people from the crowd that half-filled the emergency large spaces of St. Genevieve’s Parish Center hammered out their own version of the night’s main theme.
small-town nature of the city. Now, the city has an opportunity to write harmonious development into the books by reworking its three planning documents, the citizens said. By rewriting its zoning documents, it would be easier for the city to deny
“High density development (as proposed in the LaLonde project) was just not an appropriate fit for Centerville on most the iconic and picturesque corner of town.”
Heather Carciofini Resident
Now is the city’s chance to reexamine its planning documents before the next development proposal comes to town, they said.
During the public hearing sessions preceding the meeting, citizens were told the city must make its decision based on the existing law, and that it could not rewrite the 2006 master plan when a development was in motion.
Now, with no development proposal currently underway, is the time to revisit the 2006 master plan, the zoning code and the comprehensive plan, nearly all of the nine speakers advised.
Ultimately, the speakers said the development proposal failed on its own because it was incompatible with the
a future proposal that caused the amount of consternation that the recent LaLonde proposal caused. This is because denial can only come about if the proposal violates the city’s planning documents. The current planning documents left too much leeway for the developer in the minds of the public and few reasons that were legal enough to deny development applications, if that was what the city was inclined to do.
“High density development (as proposed in the LaLonde project) was just not an appropriate fit for Centerville on most the iconic and picturesque corner of town. Please revisit the master plan,” resident Heather Carciofini said.
Another citizen called on council to consider rezoning in the master plan and make the LaLonde land into single-family homes. “It’s a beautiful place that will tell people how beautiful Centerville is,” she said.
Resident Anita Rios noted that “people are paying attention and are engaged here in Centerville” and said the master plan needed to be updated. The master plan, as the guiding document for all development around Centerville, was based on citizen input in 2006 and may not represent the views of current citizens, she said.
Planning and Zoning Commissioner Jeannie Seppala said during the time she was immersed in the zoning code, comprehensive plan and master plan, she discovered these plans to be inconsistent with each other and found that evaluating them was burdensome both to the planning commission and to the developer. She asked council to put a moratorium on accepting all planned unit developments, until contradictions in these plans have been resolved.
Mayor D. Love said council members couldn’t respond to public forum comments but said council would either direct staff to put some type of summary on the agenda or compile a response document for the planning commissioners to study.
SOLAR FARMS: Hugo City Council wants to know residents’ ‘appetite’
FROM PAGE 1
Mayor Tom Weidt said he would like to differ from that process and proposed the city go in the direction of making a text amendment to its zoning ordinance that would ban solar farms within the city. The ban would not include solar arrays on homes or solar panels on private property used for personal use.
“We have done two of these now and we have had mainly negative feedback from people involved,” Weidt explained. “What we have done so far just isn’t working for us.”
Weidt said based on the feedback that would come out of a future public hearing, the city could come up with a solution it hasn’t necessarily considered yet.
“I think this is a way to trigger that discussion and come up with ways to rectify the situation one way or
another,” he said. “We have got to figure out what the appetite for (solar farms) is in the city and figure out how to move forward … So far, the feedback has been pretty poor.”
Council Member Mike Miron said he agreed the text amendment process would be a great way to gather public input. “Obviously we have had this discussion a few different times as a council, as a Planning Commission, as an Ordinance Review Committee, I get the sense that this is less about an ordinance tweak and more about a what is the appetite of the community in terms of this particular use,” Miron said. “This would open it up to the public to give their perspective on how they see this particular use.”
Miron added that residents should ask themselves, even if they are okay with solar farms in the city, if they
would want to live next to one. “I think some of the initial feedback we got was they support solar as an idea; it is when the application gets put forward and we are looking at a particular parcel that it seems like that is when the opposition starts to come up.”
Council Member Phil Klein said he also supported this direction. “I think it is a good idea to get it out there and let the community decide what they want to do and then we can follow their lead.”
The Planning Commission will host a public hearing on the draft text amendment that would ban solar farms within the city July 11.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
History of solar farm moratoriums
• In February 2023, City Council established a six-month moratorium that prohibits new solar farms and directed the ordinance review committee to study the ordinance and consider revisions.
• In June 2023, City Council extended the moratorium for another six months.
• In May 2024, City Council established a six-month moratorium.
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