The Citizen

“Festival of Lakes”

Centerville sets example with junior council member program

BY LORETTA HARDING

WRITER

CONTRIBUTING

The City of Centerville is a League of Minnesota Cities’ 2023 City of Excellence award winner for its Junior Council Member Program.

The award was in the under 5,000 population category and was awarded recently at the league’s annual conference in Duluth.

“The award goes to communities who do something pretty innovative,” said Assistant City Administrator Athanasia Lewis at the June 28 city council meeting.

The city’s junior council program, initiated in 2021-2022, allows a high school student to be an active, participating member of the city council

from the past’

City creates proposed plan for future passive park

BY SEBASTIAN STUDIER

INTERN

PRESS

The city of Hugo has created a master plan for a potential future passive park in the space between Oneka Lake Park and the southwest side of Oneka Lake at 6540 Greene Ave. The park plan includes trails (both paved and natural), a small 10-car parking lot, a

fishing dock and overlooks.

The 24-acre property adjacent to Oneka Lake Park was formerly owned by Bruce and Ginny Bernin but was purchased by the city in 2002 with hopes to create a future passive park.  Bruce and Ginny rented the property from the city, and lived on the property until August 2022 when they both passed away. The lease was terminated

by the Bernin estate. In 2022, the city of Hugo also purchased from the Bernin Estate the smaller adjacent patch of land to the south, located at 15230 Greene Ave.,

Referencing an aerial shot of the land from 1991, Hugo Parks Planner Shayla Denaway pointed out how much the land has changed since then.

“It shows how far we’ve come with

growth in the city,” Denaway said. “More importantly, I really like how this aerial demonstrates what a great steward of the land Bruce and Ginny Bernin were.”

The area for the proposed passive park used to be all farm fields, but there are now many trees, creating the

‘Blast

SEE JUNIOR COUNCIL, PAGE 2

Danny Peterson (front left) and Rowan Shaw (front right) with Mayor D. Love, Assistant City Administrator Athanasia Lewis, Council Member Russ Koski and family members after receiving an award in Duluth.

JUNIOR COUNCIL: ‘A proud moment’

FROM PAGE 1 for one year. Junior council members are expected to attend monthly meetings, work sessions, budget sessions and other meetings. The students are seated with the council during meeting and provide input on matters brought before council.

For example, Danny Peterson, the city’s first junior council member, lobbied for a more effective way for the city to reach out to residents than just through its website. Since then, the council has approved the implementation of a mobile app, featuring a news section to conveying important information about city services. The app also

includes user-friendly bill pay, viewing upcoming city events, reading city codes and ordinances, and completing online permit applications.

Peterson is succeeded by current junior council member, Rowan Shaw. Mayor D. Love is credited with coming up with the idea.

“It’s a proud moment,” Love said. “There’s been a lot of buzz, and a lot of cities asked about the junior council member program and wanted to emulate it,” he said.

“I had my reservations at first when (Love) brought this up,” Council Member Steve King said. Both the junior

Discarded fireworks cause of Hugo fire

council members have been excellent, he noted. “They’re actually getting a learning experience. I don’t know how much of this is covered at school, whether they’re just getting the basics. But this is how it’s supposed to work -- I think it’s a good idea.”

Centerville will also receive a plaque, a check for $1,000, and recognition in League of Minnesota Cities publications and promotional activities throughout the upcoming year.

Loretta Harding can be reached by emailing news@presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1200.

Hugo Fire was called to an attached garage on fire at 12:40 a.m. Wednesday, July 5 6100 block of 135th Street. Upon arrival, crews found the exterior of the garage on fire and extending into the attic. Thanks to a neighbor who spotted the fire and alerted the family to evacuate, everyone got out safe.

Fire crews from Hugo, Forest Lake, Centennial and Lino Lakes fire departments responded and quickly knocked down the fire. The garage sustained major damage while the home sustained minor damage. Two pets were found and rescued. The cause of the fire was determined to be from used discarded fireworks cartons in the trash can next to the garage.

Salon to open in former Chef Hot Hands building

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

This month or next, Quad area residents will have another option for their hair, skin and massage needs.

Hugo resident Christina Luger, formerly of Circle Pines, will open Connor James Salon in the former Chef Hot Hands building in downtown Centerville.

“I’ve always dreamed of having my own salon,” she said. “It’s been in the back of my head … it’s always just been that dream.”

For the past three years, Luger has rented space at a salon in White Bear Lake. She was looking for somewhere she could call her own in the Hugo area and stumbled across the former Chef Hot Hands space in the city next door because she knows the building’s owners.

The salon is named after her two sons’ middle names, as well as her brother Connor, who passed away in 2014.

“Connor James Salon has been a journey of discovery for myself. I wanted a place that combined my love of music, specifically classic rock, creating

beautiful hair and plants,” Luger explained. “Throughout my journey I also learned about how important mind and body wellness is.”

She loves to help people feel good about themselves, as well as to educate people on the products they use.

All of the products used at the salon will be fairtrade, ethically harvested, organic products with plant-based ingredients.

“I think it is really important to pay attention to what we are putting into our bodies,” she said.

Connor James Salon will also offer some boutique items from local artisans, including jewelry and other goodies.

The salon has space for six stylists. Luger also plans to bring in a massage therapist and an esthetician.

She is currently in the process of renovating the commercial kitchen space into a salon. Walls have been torn down and new walls have been constructed, flooring has been installed and the electrical and plumbing is all being redone.

“I’m really excited to be in my hometown and bring something new to the community,” Luger said.

Luger plans to open for business come July or August.

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

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Discarded fireworks caused an attached garage to set fire in the 6100 block of 135th St. July 5.

CONTRIBUTED

Hugo resident Christina Luger plans to open her business, Connor James Salon, this month or next in the former Chef Hot Hands building in downtown Centerville.

PASSIVE PARK: Construction could begin in 2025

FROM PAGE 1

“special” piece of land that it is today.

The original 24 acres, set to become a passive park, was purchased using a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which paid for half of the purchase. The grant states that the property must be available for public use and must only include passive features such as picnic tables, shelters, restrooms, trails, fishing piers and children’s play areas. The deed prohibits the city from building active park features such as ball fields, skateparks and playgrounds.

“We’re required to protect the natural resources, we’re required to make improvements, make it publicly available, and manage the recreation,” Denaway said.

In 2004, the city came together in meetings and completed surveys for what it wanted in a park. The neighborhood really wanted a playground, which ended up happening at Oneka Lake Park, the active park that is open to the public today.

A master plan for the park was created in 2004, with much help from Bruce and Ginny. This plan has been updated for 2023 and can be viewed at https://tinyurl. com/2sfh5x3f .

Many of the trails included in the master plan already exist on the property. Bruce tended to keep these paths cut low and free from tree growth. The city currently is maintaining these trails. The plan includes a series of paved trails providing a fully accessible connection to the sidewalk on Goodview Avenue and the neighborhood to the west of the park as well as a series of nature trails. These nature

trails will either be mowed trails or gravel trails. Denaway notes woodchip trails are another option, but that the city is trying to avoid woodchips because they are difficult to maintain.

Denway also notes that mowed trails are particularly difficult when it comes to accessibility, especially with young children and seniors.

Passive park rules differ from active park rules. In a passive park, archery equipment is allowed to be discharged as long as it’s not within 500 feet of a building or road. Dogs are allowed to be unleashed in a passive park while they must be leashed in an active park. Motorized vehicles are still not allowed in a passive park, but Denaway foresees this being a concern in this area with ATVs and snowmobiles.

“We would anticipate a heavy deputy presence at this park for that rule in particular,” Denaway said.

A meeting open to the residents of Hugo was held on June 27 to gain input and public opinion on the master plan.

One resident is concerned about boaters using the new parking lot to launch their boats rather than the DNR launch that already exists.

Denaway says the idea is to build the future parking lot so it is not accommodating to a trailer, to prevent this issue.

Another concern expressed by Hugo residents was surrounding the potential loss of privacy that the homes along the newly paved trail will be faced with, especially in the winter months when the trees along the proposed south trail lose their leaves

As of now, the city does not have

a vegetation plan for this specific area, but it was discussed at the meeting to potentially move the trail farther north to give the residents of those homes more privacy.

Another concern raised by Hugo residents was the paved trails negatively affecting the wildlife in the area.

Denaway stressed the importance of having paved trails in the future because it will be accessible for all people to be in the setting. She also mentioned that paved trails were a large part of the original 2004 plan, which was discussed heavily with Bruce and Ginny.

“The idea behind having a paved trail was to have it accessible, for families with strollers or wheelchairs, people with other mobility issues, to be able to provide them with access to the nature as well,” Denaway said.

The first step for this park will be seeking approval of the master plan updates from the Parks Commission and ultimately the City Council sometime in August.

After approval of the master plan, a construction plan will need to be created, and after this, funding for construction would need to be explored. Denaway explained that this would likely include the city searching for grants to help fund the construction process.

If the plan continues to progress, the goal is to start construction as early as 2025, according to Denaway.

Sebastian Studier is an intern at Press Publications. He can be reached by calling 651-242-2775 or emailing intern1@presspubs.com.

Dart is a young, handsome male with lots of energy. He is affectionate, eager to please and likes all the people he meets. He is also social with other dogs and cats, and he loves to play.

Dart arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from one of the organization’s northern partners.

Dart is a German shepherd mix. He is just over a year old and weighs about 50 pounds. A home with a fenced yard isn’t required but would suit Dart well as he loves to run and explore. He also likes to go on walks and would do well with an active to semiactive family. Dart is very affectionate and likes to be around his people. He is house trained and knows his basic commands, but he is intelligent and easily trainable,

especially when treats are involved.

Dart is anxiously waiting for a loving family with an active lifestyle that will welcome him and continue teaching him how to be the best boy he can be. If you are interested in learning more about Dart or adopting him, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

BUSINESS BRIEF

Royal Credit Union announces new branch manager

HUGO — Royal Credit Union has announced Mitchell Anderson as the new branch manager. In this position, Anderson is responsible for overseeing branch operations of the Hugo

office while ensuring growth and operational efficiencies. Anderson joined Royal Credit Union in 2019. Most recently, Anderson held the title of branch supervisor of the Stillwater and St. Paul offices.

Anderson graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business management and has successfully completed the Credit Union

National Association’s Financial Counseling Certification Program. Anderson looks forward to working in the community of Hugo and getting more involved with the Hugo Business Association and other local organizations. Anderson currently resides in East Bethel with his wife and newborn daughter.

WEEKLY WAG

CONTRIBUTED

According to the Hugo master plan, the city is interested in developing the former Bernin property into a passive park, which would include natural and paved trails as well as a parking lot, fishing dock and overlooks.

Voice cloning and deep fakes

Publisher’s View

Carter Johnson

By now we have heard about the phone calls and spoofing scams where the caller says something to the effect of, “your grandson has been kidnapped while traveling and we need you to send money for his release,” or “he is in the hospital and needs money to be treated.” They spoof the phone number on the caller ID and often use data found on social media or other records to make it sound convincing. Some have fallen for this and sent money, and then find out shortly afterward their loved one is perfectly safe. A few years ago my wife's 100year old grandma received a call that her husband was in the hospital and needed money to get out, even though he had died years prior. She has dementia and doesn't have access to her finances, but it was distressing and difficult to convince her the call wasn't true. My fatherin-law once received a call from his “grandson” but quickly figured out it was a scam because the person on the phone talked more than his grandson ever would.

These scams are getting more complex. Now with artificial intelligence, scammers can mirror voices with free voice cloning apps and software. They can pull voice recordings on voicemails or social media videos. The sofware will make it very difficult to determine a real call from a scam call.

If you have answered a call and think you’re being scammed, ask the caller a difficult question that only the real person would know. If you’re not sure, hang up and call the person back on the number you have for them, not on the number they called in on. Don't answer calls you don’t recognize, and let them go to voicemail. Also keep your phone number private, and don’t share it on any social media sites. Reconsider posting videos with music rather than voices.

Some media outlets have reported that voice cloning can take place with as short as a three second clip-they can clone your voice with only three seconds of audio. This continues to be a huge problem for artists in the music industry.

New puppy

Our neighborhood is sporting new puppies, from black labs, golden retrievers and the ever popular doodles. Puppies are cute, cuddly and fun until it’s time for bed or you have to clean up after them.

I don’t know what we were thinking when we added another Aussidoodle into our family mix. It seemed like our 3-year-old dog could benefit from a playmate, and with a kid still at home it felt like the timing was now or never. The two dogs are up early and play every morning, though the older one is running short of fur on his ears and tail from the constant biting by the puppy. We’ve been slowly introducing our puppy to others in the neighborhood and appreciate those who have respected our wishes. As your out walking your dog or dogs, keep in mind the different stages of dog ownership people are at and the goals they have in dog ownership. The new puppy has been another learning experience. We assumed he would have a similar personality to the other dog, who loves running outside and expressing his herding tendencies. The new one seems content to sit on the steps and watch the older one run. The puppy has been quick to learn a few tricks, though we wish those included sleeping a little later than 5 a.m., and asking to go outside every time he has to pee. We have a way to go in getting him settled into the family, but if you're thinking of getting a puppy its a friendly reminder its more work than you remember. As always, when getting a dog consider a rescue or even better try taking on foster care of dogs and cats.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

Keep cool to be heart-healthy in extreme heat

Record high temperatures are bringing summer heat early this year around much of the U.S., and the American Heart Association, a global force for longer, healthier lives for all, is urging people to take extra steps to protect their hearts. Precautions are especially important for older adults and people with high blood pressure, obesity or a history of heart disease and stroke.

Movers & Shakers

follows these top 5 hot weather precautions:

• Watch the clock: It’s best to avoid the outdoors in the early afternoon (about noon to 3 p.m.) because the sun is usually at its strongest, putting you at higher risk for heat-related illnesses.

• Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics such as cotton, or a newer fabric that repels sweat. Add a hat and sunglasses. Before you get started, apply a water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 15, and reapply it every two hours.

exercising and cool down immediately by dousing yourself with cold water and re-hydrating. You may need to seek medical attention.

If you experience symptoms of a heat stroke, call 9-1-1 and medical attention right away.

Symptoms of heat stroke include warm, dry skin with no sweating, strong and rapid pulse, confusion and/or unconsciousness, high fever, throbbing headaches, and nausea, vomiting or both

American Heart Association

Temperatures exceeding 100°F or even temperatures in the 80s with high humidity can cause a dangerous heat index that can be hard on the heart. Heat and dehydration cause the heart to work harder, trying to cool itself by shifting blood from major organs to underneath the skin. This shift causes the heart to pump more blood, putting it under significantly more stress. Hydration helps the heart more easily pump blood through the blood vessels to the muscles and it helps the muscles work efficiently.

The American Heart Association suggests that everyone

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• Drink up: Stay hydrated by drinking a few cups of water before, during and after going outside or exercising. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.

• Take regular breaks: Find some shade or a cool place, stop for a few minutes, hydrate and start again

• Follow the doctor’s orders: Continue to take all medications as prescribed.

It’s important to know the signs and symptoms when you may be experiencing too much heat.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, heavy sweating, cold, moist skin, chills, dizziness or fainting (syncope), a weak and rapid pulse, muscle cramps, fast, shallow breathing, and nausea, vomiting or both.

If you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place, stop

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Heat stroke is not the same as a stroke. Stroke happens when a blood vessel to the brain either bursts or is blocked by a clot, causing a decrease in oxygen flow to the brain.

While taking precautions is key, it’s still important to find ways for the whole family to stay active in the heat of summer. Try walking, swimming, biking, skating, jumping rope, building a backyard obstacle course, or organizing a neighborhood soccer game. Even gardening, pushing a stroller or walking the dog counts. Adjusting your activity time to early morning or later in the evening can also help. If being outside is just too much on some days, find indoor locations where you can be active, such as a shopping mall, gym or community recreation center.

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Congresswoman McCollum visits with Washington County commissioners

U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum recently paid a visit to Washington County to visit with county commissioners and see projects in the county that have benefited from federal funding.

The visit began at Lake Elmo Park Reserve where the county’s Sheriff’s Office launched airboats into Lake Elmo to demonstrate their uses in rescue operations on water bodies throughout the county. The county is requesting $700,000 from Community Project funding to add to the boat fleet.

The visit also allowed commanders from the Sheriff’s Office to visit with McCollum about a second funding request for a centralized digital evidence management system to assist law enforcement agencies and attorneys from throughout the county to store and share digital evidence. The system would also allow law enforcement agencies respond to citizen requests for data.

Also, at Lake Elmo Park Reserve, the congresswoman and county commissioners took part in a ribbon cutting for a segment of the Central Greenway Regional Trail that has recently been completed in the park.

The project added a portion of the trail that provides connectivity and

CHURCH BRIEF

New Life hosts blood

drive

New Life Church

Lutheran will host a community blood drive from 12:30 to 6:15 p.m.

Thursday, July 27. To make better use of time, donors are able to use the RapidPass, the day of donation. Donors can

Waiting Child

Riley,13, likes to spend quality time telling stories and jokes. He is very knowledgeable in many topics and enjoys talking about dinosaurs, science, bugs, and how things are built. Riley has a great imagination and likes putting these thoughts on paper. He loves keeping his hands busy and has a significant interest in Legos, inventing, and building things.

Riley has also shown a great interest in Pokémon and Dungeon and dragons. Riley enjoys reading and does a great job teaching others about his interests. Riley has lots of energy and finds joy in riding his bike, going to the park, hiking, swimming, soccer, 4 square, and downhill skiing.

Riley treasures bugs and creatures and cares deeply about his bearded dragon. He would do well in a two-parent home that can provide structure and routine.

Only families from Minnesota and bordering states are being considered at this time.

safety at Lake Elmo Park Reserve, which is part of the backbone of trails that will connect the county’s regional parks – Cottage Grove Ravine, Lake Elmo, and Big Marine. McCollum worked to secure $1 million in Community Project Funding in 2022 to support the trail. Commissioner Kriesel, who spoke at the ribboncutting, thanked McCollum for her support.

McCollum added, “I’m looking forward to more collaboration, more opportunities to work together” to complete the trail that will run the length of Washington County. It’s like building great foundations for communities to work together.”

McCollum’s final stop was at the intersection of County Road 5 and Highway 96 directly across Highway 96 from the Stillwater Town Hall, where Commissioner Fran Miron, District 1, joined the group to discuss the changes proposed at the intersection.

Washington County, which recently took ownership of Highway 96 from the state, will plan a reconstruction of the intersection in the future to improve safety and traffic flow.

The county will conduct a corridor study to review potential improvement opportunities for the intersection. The county is seeking federal Community Project Funding for the intersection reconstruction.

complete the pre-reading and donations questions from the privacy of their home or office, thus reducing the time spent at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes.  Donors should visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and remember to bring the completed RapidPass. Appointments are still

needed to donate.     Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds and be in good health. Donors can donate every 56 days.  For more information, visit Redcrossblood.org. New Life is located at 6000 N. 148th St. in Hugo.

Submitted by Foster Adopt Minnesota, a state organization whose vision is to have zero kids waiting for permanent loving families, and mission to find and strengthen Minnesota adoptive, foster care and kinship families. To learn more, go to www.fosteradoptmn.org

CONTRIBUTED

Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski, District 2, Congresswoman Betty McCollum, and Washington County Commissioner Fran Miron, District 1, visit the site of a possible future construction project at the intersection of Highway 96 and County Road 5 in Stillwater Township.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

GRIZ

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 9925 103RD ST N STILLWATER MN 55082

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Chase Patrick Sullivan

403 N TRACY AVE BOZEMAN MT 59715

Andrew Davis Salmen 9925 103RD ST N STILLWATER MN 55082

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: June 16, 2023

Signed: Andrew Davis Salmen

Published two times in The Citizen on June 29 and July 13, 2023. OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

Elite Vitality

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

9925 103RD ST N STILLWATER MN 55082

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Andrew Davis Salmen

9925 103RD ST N STILLWATER MN 55082

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: June 16, 2023

Signed: Andrew Davis Salmen

Published two times in The Citizen on June 29 and July 13, 2023.

CITY OF HUGO

WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

LIFT STATION NO. 12

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Bids for the construction of Lift Station No. 12 will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at 1:00 pm local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Hugo will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 1.301.715.8592 and entering Meeting ID 935 6106 5815 and Passcode 295154. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening.

The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the construction complete in-place, of a new sanitary lift station that includes buried precast concrete structures, submersible pumps, flow meter, valves, piping, controls, site work and appurtenant work.

The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Hugo shall comply with the provisions of the statute.

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www.questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #8563288 on the website’s Project Search page.

The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources.

Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.

The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days.

For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

DATED: June 16, 2023 BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Michele Lindau, City Clerk, City of Hugo, MN

Published two times in The Citizen on June 29 and July 13, 2023.

CITY OF HUGO

SUMMARY ORDINANCE 2023-526

NOTICE: THIS PUBLISHED MATERIAL IS ONLY A SUMMARY OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES FOR THE CITY OF HUGO. THE FULL TEXT OF THE ORDINANCE IS AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE HUGO CITY HALL DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS.

SUMMARY OF AN INTERIM ORDINANCE EXTENDING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON NEW DEVELOPMENT OF SOLAR FARM SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS AND DIRECTING A STUDY TO BE CONDUCTED:

The City Council has passed an interim ordinance for a moratorium on solar farms that shall remain in effect until six (6) months from August 6, 2023. The City Council directs City staff to study the Solar Farm section of the ordinance to determine whether to revise or add any regulations or restrictions, including siting and location of use, performance standards, and screening of Solar Farms. Upon completion of the study, the City Council, together with such commission as the City Council deems appropriate, or as may be required by law, will consider the advisability of adopting new ordinances or amending its current ordinances.

Please note this title and summary of this Ordinance clearly informs the public of the intent and affect of the Ordinance and conforms to Minn. Stat. § 412.191. This Ordinance shall be effective the date that it is published.

The amended ordinance is available at City Hall for review.

Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Hugo this 10th day of July, 2023. Tom Weidt, Mayor

Michele Lindau, City Clerk

2023.

COPS&COURTS

HUGO POLICE REPORTS

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

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies escorted a motorist home at her request at 3:40 a.m. June 4, after they pulled her over for erratic driving near Forest Blvd. N. and 159th Street N. While deputies looked on, the motorist was cruising along at 47 mph in a 35 mph zone. Then she crossed over the center line and sped up to 70 mph in a 55 mph zone. Once contact with the driver was made, deputies smelled the odor of an alcoholic beverage and noticed the driver’s glossy and bloodshot eyes. She stated that she had drunk four White Claw canned hard liquor drinks.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 7:38 a.m. June 4 in the 8000 block of westbound 170th Street N. for speeding 60 mph in a 55 mph zone by east-facing deputies in their marked squad who clocked her on radar at 70 mph. The driver admitted to going too fast and was given a break in her citation fine.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Europa Trail Way N. at 6:46 p.m. June

4 reported two baby squirrels whose tails were tangled together.

Deputies advised the resident to take the animals to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Roseville.

• A suspicious vehicle observed by deputies at the Speedway station on Forest Blvd. N. and 147th Street N. at 9:07 a.m. June 5 turned out to be a vehicle unwanted at by the station anyway, after the station manager asked deputies to arrange to have the vehicle towed. The vehicle was blocking traffic and deliveries at the station.

• A suspicious vehicle deputies observed at 1:34 p.m. June 6 in the 4000 block of Victor Path turned out to be a Wisconsin woman looking for the house of an acquaintance. Deputies told her she had the wrong address, but couldn’t verify her story because the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension website was down at the time of contact.

• A resident in the 15000 block of Farnham Avenue N. at 10:36 a.m. June 7 reported her daughter’s exboyfriend for threatening her via video games.

• A woman who had an Order For Protection (OFP) out against her phoned deputies at 7:14 p.m. June 7 about possibly contacting the woman who had taken out the OFP against her at her place of employment in Anoka County. Deputes not only told the complainant not to do it, but contacted the business to place a trespass order against the complainant.

• Reported threats reported at 8:32 p.m. June 7 in the 4000 block of Heritage Parkway N. turned out to be a political disagreement at a playground.

Deputies advised the complainant to just walk away from arguments regarding sensitive topics, such as abortion and religion.

• A motorist driving as if under the influence was cited for failure to provide proof of insurance at 10:23 p.m. June 8 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N., after deputies on patrol conducted a traffic stop for expired registration and found the driver to have been drinking. However, after deputies administered a slate of standard field sobriety tests, they found the driver was under the limit.

2 pilots escape serious injury after incidents in Anoka County

Two pilots are thankful to be alive after two separate incidents in Anoka County.

The first incident happened around 2 p.m. Saturday, July 8 near 125th Avenue NE and Legacy Creek Parkway in the city of Blaine. The plane was on its way from the Cambridge Airport to the Flying Cloud Airport in Eden Prairie when the pilot decided to make a stop at the Anoka County Airport in Blaine after experiencing low oil pressure. The pilot was not able to make it to the airport, but landed on the roadway

• An unidentified driver was cited at 12:32 a.m. June 9 on 170th Street N. for driving after suspension, following a traffic stop for expired license plate registration.

• A business in the 5000 block of 150th Street N. at 2:17 p.m. June 9 reported furniture stolen from its premises.

• A Wisconsin motorist was cited at 8:13 p.m. June 9 in the 9000 block of eastbound 170th Street. for speeding 64 mph in a 55 mph zone by westbound deputies on patrol who clocked the vehicle on radar at 70 mph. Deputies reduced the official speed due to the driver being “super cooperative”.

• A westbound motorist was cited at 8:53 p.m. June 9 in the 5000 block of Egg Lake Road for speeding 50 mph in a 35 mph zone by eastbound deputies who clocked the vehicle on radar. There was no reduction in the citation fine for this driver, who said he knew the speed limit was 35 mph but thought he was going the speed limit.

• A motorist of undisclosed identity was arrested on warrant at 11:39 p.m. June 9 in the 13000 block of Forest Blvd. N., after deputies initiated a traffic stop for speeding and discovered the driver’s status on their mobile computer.

• A burglary in progress reported at 3:15 p.m. June 10 in the 4000 block of Fable Hill Parkway N. turned out to be a family member allowed to be at the house, after the complainant had a look at video surveillance footage.

• A motorcyclist was cited at 4:55 p.m. June 10 in the 5000 block of 140th Street N. for driving with an obstructed license plate and careless driving, after Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies at the intersection of 140th Street N. and Highway 61 observed a blue motorcycle ahead of them spinning its rear tire and pulling donuts in the middle of the road.

• Deputies cited a motorist for speeding at 8:57 p.m. June 10 in the 6000 block of Egg Lake Road N., as part of the Toward Zero Deaths initiative. They also cited another motorist at 11:54 p.m. June 10 in the 7000 block of 170th Street N. for speeding.

• Residents in the 13000 block of Europa Way N. at 12:58 a.m. June 11 reported an incident of ding-dongditch. Deputies, who happened to be in the area, located one juvenile male. It has not been disclosed what happened next.

• A juvenile reported for possessing a handgun at 9:38 a.m. June 11 in the 5000 block of 149th Street N. turned out to be a youth who said he had an airsoft gun with an orange tip in his house.

Deputies spoke to the youth’s parent who confirmed the information.

• A resident in the 12000 block of Hilo Avenue N. at 6:10 p.m. June 11 reported a friend of her soon-tobe ex-husband driving past her residence as part of ongoing issues involving custody of a vehicle. Deputies advised the complainant that her case was a civil matter and instructed her on the Harassment Restraining Order (HRO) process should the male continue with this behavior.

safely. The pilot, who was flying a Cessna 172, was not injured and the plane didn’t sustain any damage.

The second incident happened around 8 p.m. that same day. The Lino Lakes Public Safety Department received calls of an aircraft incident on the east side of Lino Lakes. Officers and firefighters arrived to find a lightweight experimental aircraft that had set down into a large holding pond near a residential area. The pilot was the lone occupant and was not injured. There were also no injuries to anyone else in the area and no other property was damaged.

The investigation into both incidents are underway.

• A traffic stop conducted at 1:55 a.m. June 11 near Victor Hugo Blvd. N. and Frenchman Road led to the seizure of suspected marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

• A wallet was reported found at 5:59 a.m. June 11 in the 6000 block of 150th Street N. Deputies arrived to retrieve the wallet and return it to its owner.

• A motorist was warned about possessing marijuana in a motor vehicle following a traffic stop for equipment violation at 9:29 p.m. June 11 near Frenchman Road and Elmcrest Avenue N. As deputies spoke to the motorist at the cab of the vehicle, they detected the odor of burnt pot, as well as pot residue in the center console. The driver admitted to having marijuana not in a prescribed container and no proof of a medical card. A search located a small amount of pot.

The driver got off with a warning, but the pot was confiscated and will be destroyed.

• A different motorist was also pulled over for equipment violations at 9:54 p.m. June 11 near Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. and received a verbal warning.

• A resident in the 5000 block of Evergreen Drive N. reported someone pounding on their door at 9:55 p.m. June 11. When deputies arrived on scene, they found no one in the area. However, on their way to another call, they found a juvenile walking in the roadway and spoke to him. When the youth said he and others were out “ding-dong-ditching”, deputies made sure he was escorted home safely and resumed answering their priority call.

• A male seen taking mail out of a mailbox in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 1:49 p.m. June 12 turned out to be the son of a resident taking the mail with permission, at a time when the household was in the middle of a family dispute that threatened to end up in court.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 8:58 p.m. June 12 on westbound 170th Street N. and Jeffrey Avenue N. for speeding 60 mph in a 55 mph zone by eastbound deputies in their marked squad who clocked the vehicle on radar at 70 mph.

• An unidentified motorist was cited for driving after revocation at 10:22 p.m. June 12 near Oneka Lake Blvd. N. and Greene Avenue N., following a traffic stop for failure to use a turn signal.

• A backpack was reported found at 4:58 a.m. June 13 on a curb near 141st Street N. and Flay Avenue N.

Deputies collected the backpack after finding nothing noteworthy or threatening inside it

• Residents in the 5000 block of 138th Street N. reported two vehicles broken into overnight June 12-13 without any damage to the vehicles. However, a credit card was stolen and used at a Holiday gas station in Maplewood and at a McDonald’s in St. Paul. Surveillance video follow-up is pending.

• A manager at the Speedway station in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 7:11 a.m. June 14 reported being harassed by a former employee. Deputies advised the complainant on the procedure to obtain an HRO.

Loretta Harding

CONTRIBUTED

An experimental aircraft landed in a holding pond near a residential area in Lino Lakes July 8.

CONTRIBUTED

The Blaine Police Department was dispatched to an aircraft that landed on the roadway near 125th Avenue and Legacy Creek Parkway in Blaine July 8.

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Senator Heather Gustafson paid a visit to the Centerville City Council to sum up legislative happenings impacting the city.

As a former teacher in the Centennial School District and vice chair of the Education Finance Committee, Gustafson said that sustainable funding for schools was the most noteworthy item on her list to report. “Centerville is dear to my heart,” she said. “It's important to me that we fund schools.”

The new education funding formula will provide an increase of 4% for the 2023-24 school year and a 2% increase for the 2024-25 school year, Gustafson said. For the 2025-26 school year and beyond, the formula increase will be linked to

State senator sums up session

inflation with a minimum increase of 2% and a maximum increase of 3%. “This is dependable money that we will see — the Centennial School District had been asking for that,” she said. In addition, Centennial Schools will see its own adjusted formula increase by more than $2 million, which is a big boost for the district as well, Gustafson said. In more education news, student mental health, which had been an area of concern, received help with a new personnel aid program, Gustafson said. Schools will now be able to hire nurses and psychologists, and there is now a mental health 911 line, she said.

Municipalities will also benefit from the session that ended on May 23. Specifically, Centerville will receive $25,315 in local government aid next year, after

having received nothing last year. With public safety aid, municipalities will receive money to pay off contracts with their public safety agencies or buy an ambulance or fire equipment. There are many options for cities, who can use public safety money for anything involving public safety, Gustafson said. In addition, some $400,000 per year has been earmarked for “pathways to policing” to encourage more people to consider law enforcement as a career and to provide essentials such as body armor.

The Legislature also turned its attention to addressing carjacking by defining it and adding significant penalties for engaging in it. If convicted, a person could receive up to 20 years in prison and/or maximum fine of $25,000, Gustafson said.

Finally, the Legislature gave a nod to

senior citizens with a $1.24 billion reduction in Social Security and pension taxes. Some 76% of Minnesota seniors will no longer pay the Minnesota Social Security tax, though they will still have to pay tax at the federal level, Gustafson said. Some 86% of seniors will receive Social Security tax relief and another 10% will receive a significant reduction in their taxes, effective Jan. 1, 2024. “I would like to have seen it be 100%,” she said. Before leaving the podium, Gustafson gave council members her contact information. “I'm happy to be of service in any way I can,” she said.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

July is... U.V. SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH

Picnics, outdoor sports, the pool, the beach, relaxing with a drink in your hand and the breeze in your hair — sound cool? It sure is! What isn’t cool is skin and eye damage caused by excessive exposure to the sun’s U.V. rays.

The sun emits radiation in the form of Ultraviolet or U.V. light, which is classified into three types: U.V.A., U.V.B., and U.V.C. The ozone layer protects the Earth’s stratosphere and blocks the most damaging U.V.C. light, but U.V.B. and U.V.A. light pass through it. U.V.C. radiation can come from artificial sources such as sunlamps or tanning beds.

Radiation from U.V. light is invisible but is always present during the day even when you can’t see or feel the sun. These rays can be harmful to our skin and eyes. Aside from wrinkles and sunburn, exposure is associated with the development of skin cancer. Our eyes can be affected by cataracts, cornea damage, and vision loss if left unprotected in the long term.

The sun is at its peak between 10 am to 4 pm. Head indoors or under shade during these hours. If you stay outside longer for work or play, sunscreen with a high S.P.F. of at least 30, a broadbrimmed hat, sunglasses, and breath-

able clothing that covers you up can offer the most protection. U.V. rays can pass through clouds. They also reflect off surfaces like sand, snow, cement, and water. That’s why sun protection is important in any season, all year round.

Children need special attention to keep them protected from the sun. They usually spend more time outdoors and burn more easily. Sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 is the minimum recommended by the Amer-

ican Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)— although the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests using SPF 30 or higher. “Choose at least SPF 30 with broad-spectrum protection, which means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays,” advises Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. No additional benefit has been shown for SPFs higher than 50. Mineral sunscreens, which contain

active ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are the most highly recommended for children as they are less irritating for sensitive skin. They also minimize the risk of harmful chemical exposure, as these minerals sit on top of the skin to block the sun’s rays rather than being absorbed into the skin.

While most sunscreen ingredients are either considered generally safe or are undergoing further research, you should try to avoid sunscreens with the ingredient oxybenzone. This chemical may have hormonal properties, says the AAP.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t recommend sunscreen for infants under six months of age. Infants should have their skin covered by hats and loose, long-sleeved clothing or be kept out of the sun whenever possible, such as under an umbrella or shady tree, says the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Babies younger than six months old should be kept out of direct sunlight. They should also wear hats and protective clothing. Sunscreen used on babies should only be put on small areas of exposed skin.

This information was found on www. nationaltoday.com, www.cancer.org and www.healthline.com.

METRO CREATIVE | CONTRIBUTED

• Guys and Dolls salon will still be coming to 1737 Main Street – it's just going to take a little longer, after the Centerville city council approved to extended the purchase agreement deadline into next year.

1. The new schedule expects work on the site to begin during the summer of 2024 and result in a single-story, 3,200 square-foot commercial space.

2. The deadline extension is needed to buy time for the Planning & Zoning Commission and the council to approve planning for the project.

3. The purchaser of the property, F & M Holdings, LLC, also requested a deadline extension to complete architectural changes. The city also needs time is to work on a grant from the county for

environmental and geotechnical work.

“This is the city's opportunity to show the buyer that we're interested in having them in the city and that they are showing good will to get things done,” Mayor D. Love said.

• The former Chef Hot Hands site could be redeveloped, after the city council approved an interim use permit for the developer, Propel Investments, LLC to change the site’s use from a catering business to a salon.

4.As part of a Planned Unit Development, the property owner is asking for five years to prepare the site and adjacent lots for redevelopment. In the interim, the site will be leased and used as a hair salon. The interim permit allows the business temporary operations on

the site and provides the property owner with an opportunity to plan for the site's permanent redevelopment into a mixed-use building, if market conditions improve over the next few years. “This is about the practicalities of redevelopment,” City Attorney Kurt Glaser said. “The market structure of the economy is part of it. The owner wants to put a substantial investment into the property and wants the luxury of time to put plans together – and they need to have a tenant there. They get a five-year grace period to use the property in its current form,” he said. The Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval with the addition of a screening fence between the property and the trail.

• The council awarded the winning bid

of $57,315 to L'Allier Concrete to replace a sidewalk, install a new sidewalk and install recycling pads at City Hall. City staff recommended adding 10% to the estimated total for unforseen contingencies.

• The city is still accepting volunteers to fill vacancies on its advisory boards. One open seat exists on the Parks & Recreation Committee, which meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at City Hall. The Planning & Zoning Commission has two open seats and meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at City Hall.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

Loretta Harding

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EQUAL HOUSING 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

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Washington County sees dramatic increase in mental health calls

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) remains busy in Hugo and the rest of the county, a trend that will likely continue the rest of this year and into 2024.

Sheriff Dan Starry recently visited the Hugo City Council to talk about some trends that the WCSO is seeing and to provide some statistics.

Perhaps the most alarming statistic is the significant increase in mental health and person in crisis (PIC) calls from Hugo citizens, which have more than quadrupled since 2020. The WCSO responded to 230 mental health/PIC calls in Hugo in 2022, compared to just 42 in 2020. Hugo is not alone: the Sheriff’s Office reports that Washington County as a whole saw mental health and PIC calls increase by 36% just since 2021.

“We are not just seeing this in the city of Hugo. All cities are seeing triple-digit increases in these types of calls,” Starry explained. “What I believe is they want help. They are okay with calling 911 to ask for help.” Starry said that most mental health/PIC calls require the response of more than one deputy as well as

the use of de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques. It’s also important to have social workers assist deputies, Starry explained.

Another item of concern is how challenging the recruiting and retention of officers is becoming across the state. “As of this morning, there were 160 agencies looking for police officers,” Starry said. “That is what we are up against. That’s the reality that law enforcement is facing this day and age.” Despite that shortage of officers, Starry said WCSO has been fortunate in that the department continues to be fully staffed.

In 2022, the WCSO responded to 8,583 calls for service in Hugo and investigated 370 cases.

“That was a busy year for us,” Starry said.

Starry said in addition to an increase in mental health/PIC calls, the WCSO is seeing an increase in traffic complaints and crashes, people fleeing in motor vehicles, and violence.

The WCSO made 233 arrests in the city of Hugo in 2022 compared to 187 arrests in 2021, a 25% increase. The WCSO also responded to 143 motor vehicle accidents in the city in 2022 compared to 113 accidents in 2021, a 27% increase.

A part of the increase in traffic complaints and crashes is the fact that it is summertime. “We always see complaints in traffic go up … speeding, reckless driving,” Starry said.

In an effort to combat those trends, the WCSO has deployed a Coordinated Response Team, a Specialized Enforcement Team, and a Special Investigations Unit, and continues to train its deputies in crisis intervention/escalation techniques as well as the pursuit intervention technique (PIT) maneuver.

Some good news for Hugo is that the number of overdoses has decreased. The WCSO responded to five overdoses in Hugo in 2022 compared to seven in 2021. That statistic was not the same for Washington County, however. The county had 48 overdoses in 2022, a 41% increase from the previous year.

Going into 2024, Starry said the WCSO will likely need to add one more full-time deputy to the city of Hugo for a total of seven deputies, one detective and one sergeant.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Postage prices, subscription rates increase

For the second time this year, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is raising rates.

Effective this month, First class mail prices are increasing 4.8% to 66 cents, postcards are up by 6% to 51 cents and periodical postage is increasing 8.8% for Within County newspapers and 8.1% for Outside County newspapers.

This hike is the fifth increase since early 2019, when a Forever stamp cost 50 cents. The higher postage prices haven’t come without criticism, however, with some postal experts pointing out that customers are paying more while getting less for their money.

That’s because the 10-year plan has slowed the post office’s delivery standard for mail to six days, down from its prior goal of three-day delivery to any destination within the U.S. And the series of price hikes means that the cost of a postage stamp has soared much higher than inflation, which has jumped 20% in the same period, accord-

ing to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Minnesota’s Medical Cannabis program begins accepting certified IBS, OCD patients

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has added irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to the list of qualifying medical conditions for participation in Minnesota’s medical cannabis program. Patients certified by a participating health care practitioner as having either of these conditions can buy

medical cannabis at a medical cannabis dispensary starting Aug. 1, 2023.’

The two new conditions were approved last year during MDH’s annual petition and public comment process. Research has shown that people who suffer from these conditions can see benefits from using medical cannabis to treat their symptoms. With the two newest additions, the medical cannabis program now has 19 qualifying medical conditions.

People interested in the program can see the full list of qualifying medical conditions online at www.health.state. mn.us/people/cannabis/patients/con-

ditions.html. To become a patient in the medical cannabis program, a person must be certified by a participating health care practitioner for at least one qualifying medical condition. More information on enrolling in the medical cannabis program is available online at www.health.state.mn.us/people/cannabis/patients/registration.html.

Foundation will host annual golf tournament

The Centennial Area Education Foundation will host its third annual golf tournament from 12:30 to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8 at Majestic Oaks Golf Club, located at 701 Bunker Lake Blvd., Ham Lake. Registration includes: 18-holes, dinner and awards, surprise competitions along the course, party carts, and more. Raffle tickets may also be purchased for the chance to win prizes. Registration deadline is Aug. 4. To register, or for more information, visit www.caefoundation.org/golf-tournament.

THE MARKETPLACE

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

The top graphic breaks down the calls per hour. In 2022, most of the calls came in around 4 p.m. The middle graphic compares the number of arrests, motor vehicle accidents and mental health/ person in crisis calls from 2022 to 2020. The bottom graphic breaks down the number of person in crisis calls and overdoses in Washington County, and more specifically the city of Hugo.

Centennial’s vibrant youth baseball/ softball group in 65th year

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

The Centennial Lakes Little League Association is marking its 65th season of operation this summer. And since 2021, the group has partnered with the Centennial Lakes Fast-Pitch Association after enacting the merger of two competing local softball groups.

Pat Mahr has been the association leader for 35 years, starting in 1989 when the previous guy left due to a dispute.

“His daughter Jessica was playing at the time and he didn’t want the program to fold,” said Chris Reff, one of eight board members. “Pat jumped in, not really understanding how big things would ever get.”

Here’s how big it got: the baseball association now has 48 teams with 582 kids, and the softball association has 27 teams with 255 kids, for a total of 75 teams and 837 kids playing ball.

“I planned to do it just that one year, and now I’ve been here 35 years. A lot has changed. We had maybe 20 teams total back then,” mused Mahr, who, with Jessica, coached a T-Ball team with his twin grand-daughters last summer.

Mahr is a daily fixture at Lexington Memorial in the summer, and works practically every day in the winter on association projects as well, Reff said.

Softball is played mostly at Lexington Fields and Sunrise Park. Baseball is played on fields through the four cities: Carl Eck/Lions, Lexington Memorial, Rice Lake, La Motte and Sunrise. “We have so many teams now, it’s a difficult process to schedule all,” said Reff. “A great problem to have.”  Baseball teams usually play two evenings per week. Softball has double-headers twice a week with 65-minute time limits. There’s also occasional weekend tournaments. The kids also practice two evenings a week during the season. They start practicing in mid-March.

The massive organization is funded by registration fees, donations and concession stands, along with hosting tournaments. Among the expenses is the grounds crew, which provides summer employment for local teenagers.

At the very youngest levels, there’s T-Ball for ages 4-5 boys and girls mixed, hitting off tees; then Coach Pitch ball for ages 6-8, with coaches pitching; and at age nine, they start pitching themselves in the AAA Development League. Next step is “Majors” for ages 10-12 which has tryouts, with kids assigned to either the International League, American League or National League, representing three levels of competition.

Rick Thomas, the Cougars varsity softball coach, participates in the association’s winter training sessions, and hosts one himself with his players helping. He even coached a team once when a parent coach could not be found. Rick’s wife, Anne, served as league administrator, and their own three kids went through the baseball and softball programs.

Centennial regularly hosts district tournaments and has hosted state tournaments. This year, they will  host a district tourney at Carl Eck/ Lions on the weekend of July 11-12.

Along with in-house competition, some association teams play at other league locations around the metro area. Baseball has all-star teams (for 12-year-olds) formed in June to play regional and state tournaments through July. They hope to qualify for the Midwest Regional in Indiana, and of course the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Local teams have done well in tournaments, Mahr said: “Our boys have been quite dominant for the past 20 years. We’ve had teams go to regionals four times, which is one step away from the World Series. Maybe someday.”

Centennial’s softball program is “very competitive, and is the largest in the state,” said Reff. Their

3 elements in the golf swing that matter

levels are 10U, 12U, 14U and HS (16U and 18U combined), all competing with teams in other communities. Softball teams play through July, ending at state tournaments trying to qualify for nationals.

There’s also an 8U program that has been very popular, Reff said, with eight other associations participating for a total of 24 teams.

Ball-playing doesn’t end when school starts. There’s a Fall Ball season in August and September with a large signup for each level.

One highlight every year is Twins Night. The Twins have hosted Little League Nights for decades, with all the leagues around the state invited, but Centennial’s turnout was always so huge that the Twins gave Centennial its own night. This year it was Friday, June 3, with about 1,100 kids and family attending the game, Mahr said.

All the kids have a “parade” a half-hour before game time when they walk around the field on the warning track. Nine players are chosen by a drawing for a special treat: taking the field with the players. “The kids run out on the field to their player’s position,” Mahr said, “and when the Twins starting lineup is announced, they run out and stand next Centennial kid, with the kid’s name announced also. It’s really a thrill for the kids.”

I’m writing today about three elements of a good golf swing that are rarely mentioned, balance, tempo, and tension. So many people have become laser focused on mechanics they forget these three elements have as much impact as path and plane.

There is new focus on how important the feet are to the golf swing. If you can’t keep your balance when you swing, that shot is probably not going to turn out well. Here’s a few drills to try that will help you understand what a balanced swing feels like.

We

Tee Time

Betsy Larey

First, hit balls with your feet together with a slow short swing. Once you’ve got that, swing with your eyes closed. I like this drill because it’s a great way to find your perfect tempo. I believe everyone has an innate tempo that works best for them. A lot of men swing for the fences because their goal is to hit it as far as they can. That’s a great goal, but if you don’t finish in balance chances are you’re not going to find the fairway.

Swing tempo gives each player the chance to create the proper sequence in the swing. In the perfect kinematic sequence, the lower body moves first, followed by the upper body, then arms and hands on your backswing. They fire in the opposite on your forward swing. Have you ever felt out of sequence during your swing? Tempo also affects balance, so finding your best tempo is critical to creating your best swing.

The last element to mention is tension. I’ve written many times before there is no saboteur of the golf swing more than tension. The most common places it will show is in the jaw and hands. When it shows up in your hands, grip pressure gets tight, and shots can go anywhere.

Is tension the same thing as pressure? I think tension causes pressure. Everyone experiences it at some point, including professionals. Some players get quick with their swing, others are tentative to the point where it looks like they are trying to steer the club.

On the course the skill that breaks down is more often the one that is the weakest part of your game. When you practice, the flaws in your game are not so apparent. But when you place your game under pressure, your weakest link is exposed. My next column will be devoted to what you can do to minimize pressure when you’re on the course.

Betsy Larey is an LPGA Teaching Pro who has been working with adults and juniors for 30 years. She has been the Head Women’s Coach at Carleton College and Flagler College, and has also coached high school at White Bear Lake and Centennial. She has taught at the PGA Tour Academy in St Augustine FL, and currently teaches adults and juniors at Keller Golf in St Paul and Chomonix in Lino Lakes. For lessons or Junior Academy information, please contact her directly at betsylareygolf@gmail.com or call 651-470-2297.

Never stop learning: Learn investing basics

If you are new to investing or just want a refresher, here are some investing basics.

Investing in securities has risks. You can try and lower the risk of losing your money by spreading it among different investments that have different risk and return characteristics. This practice is called diversification. An important concept related to diversification is asset allocation, which is how you divide your money among the different investments that you have.

When making investing decisions, consider how much risk you are willing to take with your money. Typically, the potential for profit (or higher return) comes with a greater chance of losing money (or risk). As your financial circumstances change and/or the securities markets go up and down, you might want to readjust how your money is allocated among your different investments. This is called rebalancing. Here are some steps you can consider to help protect your assets:

• Monitor your accounts. Review your account statements regularly. Talk with your investment professional about the account statement and ask any questions you have.

• Add a trusted contact. A trusted contact is a person your brokerage firm will contact if your broker believes your account may be exposed to possible financial exploitation or fraud.  Your broker will also contact your trusted contact person in other situations too, for example, if they are having trouble

reaching you or if they suspect you are sick or suffering from diminished capacity. Naming someone as a trusted contact person does not give that person any authority to act on your behalf, execute transactions, or engage in activity in your account.

• Understand fees. You may pay fees for owning an investment, buying or selling an investment, and any advice or help regarding investments you get from an investment professional. Understand the fees you pay and ask questions about

them.

• Research investments. Always research an investment before making a decision – and don’t forget to ask questions. Make sure you get the disclosure documents for the investment and read them. Many types of securities and investment products have a prospectus and/or shareholder reports, along with other disclosures, to help explain the investment.

• Research professionals. Do a background check on your investment

professional and firm to learn important information about them.

• Plan for illness. Prepare for future illness or diminished capacity by talking to family or friends and getting organized. Talk to trusted family members or a trusted friend about your accounts and assets before anything happens. Organize your important documents now and keep them up-to-date.  Make a list of all the important account information, contact information and policy numbers from

these documents. Give a copy of the list to a trusted family member or a trusted friend or make sure they know where you keep the information. Provide your financial professional with trusted emergency contacts.

• Tapping your nest egg. Consider how and when to take money out of your investment accounts. Consider whether rolling over a retirement account makes sense for you. When you need to take money from your account – called decumulation – consider how much you need to take out and when to take it out. Be thoughtful regarding which assets you sell. Consider how selling those assets will affect your account’s diversification and whether you will need to rebalance your investments. Also consider any tax consequences, especially when taking money out of a tax-sheltered retirement account.

• Learn to stop fraud. Educate yourself about fraud and get help when you need it.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Fraudsters use your fears against you – your fear of running out of money; your fear of missing out on an investment opportunity or a sure thing; your fear of appearing unintelligent; or, your fear of falling behind. Don’t be misled. Instead, get educated about common fraud tactics.

U.S Securities and Exchange Commission