Centennial Fire District welcomes home Engine 1
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
It’s not every day that a fire department gets to push a new engine into its station.
“This doesn’t happen very often,” said Fire Chief Dan Retka. “The fire department is a pillar in the community; the fire engine is the pillar of the fire service.”
The newest addition to Centennial Fire District’s (CFD) fleet is a 2024 Rosenbauer know as Engine
1. The engine, which was built in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, features a 1,000-gallon water tank and has a pumping capacity of 1,500 gallons per minute. Assistant Chief Matt Montain says the district was lucky to secure the truck for $560,000, even though most engines run more than $1 million.
CFD recently held a ceremonial “push in” to welcome home its new engine. However, Engine 1 is not expected to be ready to respond to calls until
September, as the district is still awaiting parts for it.
The “push in” ceremony dates to the 1800s when fire crews returned from a call on horse-drawn equipment and the animals were unable to push back into the fire station. The crews had to detach the horses and physically push the equipment back into the bay. That signified the everyone was safe, and the engine was ready to go for the next call.
Back to school 2024
CONTRIBUTED
Those who are interested in touring the renovated White Bear Lake Area High School, which will house students in grades 9-12 starting this fall, are invited a Community Open House event from 3-6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29. Attendees can stick around for the season opener football game, which will kick off at 7 p.m.
May Township denies Liberty Classical Academy’s application
BY NEALY CORCORAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Following a series of meetings to discuss Liberty Classical Academy (LCA)’s Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application for a proposed 33,590-square-foot addition to the existing Withrow School building, May Township has chosen to deny the CUP.
“Given that the application is inconsistent with the terms of an ordinance currently in place which imposes a moratorium on the establishment of institutional and commercial uses in the rural residential zoning district, given the significant impact that these types of uses might have in a residential area, May Township did pass a resolution denying a CUP for LCA,” said Chair Pazlar.
Last month, May Township had a special meeting to discuss a moratorium on non-residential in a Rural Residential (RR) district. Following the discussion, supervisors enacted an interim ordinance, authorizing a study and imposing a moratorium on the establishment of institutional and non-residential uses and any associate facilities within the RR Zoning District.
Pazlar explained, “The moratorium provides a window of time for the township to pause applications of this type, to better study what sorts of conditional
SEE LIBERTY CLASSICAL ACADEMY, PAGE 7
SHANNON GRANHOLM PRESS PUBLICATIONS
The Centennial Fire District pushes its new fire engine, Engine 1, into the Circle Pines Station. Engine 1 should hopefully be in service in September.
Engine 1 will replace Engine 11, which has served as the front-line engine out of Station 1 since 2001. Engine 11 will be retired from service and sold.
“(Engine 1) is going to serve this community absolutely wonderfully and it’s going to keep our people safe,” Retka explained. “These responders deserve a piece of apparatus that’s going to keep them safe, that’s going to be something our community can be proud of and is going to serve our community for several years, and that’s exactly what we got.”
Over the last 20 years, Retka says the fire service has changed dramatically. CFD, along with other Anoka County departments, now have auto and mutual aid agreements in place, meaning the engine will serve more than just the cities of Centerville and Circle Pines. In addition, Engine 1 will respond to emergencies at the Anoka County-Blaine Airport.
“CFD is being called up a lot more than they have in the past,” Retka said. “We are now responding to first alarms all over the area. We are going over to Spring Lake Park, Blaine and Mounds
BY THE NUMBERS
View (SBM), Lake Johanna, Lexington, Lino Lakes … our truck is getting around.”
In 2024, it is not uncommon for fire departments to have to wait for three to four years to take delivery of a new engine and spend upwards of $2 million. “To say this one kind of fell in our lap would be an understatement. I guess it was the right place at the right time,” Retka commented. “We were able to get this truck for almost half that price and we got into six months.”
It couldn’t happen, if the cities of Centerville and Circle Pines weren’t willing to contribute. The majority of the cost for the engine will come from CFD’s capital equipment fund, which both cities contribute to annually.
According to City Administrator Mark Statz, the fund was approximately $100,000 short, so both cities chipped in to cover the shortage. Centerville will pay $47,000 and Circle Pines $53,000.
“Fire engines aren’t cheap these days. It is a huge commitment … Commitment from our cities is just as important as commitment from our firefighters. Without that support, we can’t do our job,” Retka added.
Circle Pines Mayor Dave Bartholomay said the city often has to
The price CFD paid for the new engine 1,000 1,500 2024 $560,000
the number of gallons the water tank can store the number of gallons per minute the truck can pump Rosenbauer
make tough choices about how to spend its dollars. “The cost of fire trucks has risen a lot the last few years, but the city still needs to make smart investments so that our firefighters have good equipment to protect us.”
Centerville Mayor D. Love added, “We are so proud of his new truck and we’re excited to see it out on the streets … We are glad that we have it and have made the great investment back into the community and are giving the homeowners and citizens what they deserve and what they need.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
No pause in Centerville development in mixed zones
BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Development will continue in Centerville’s mixed zones while the city studies its planning documents.
Following a public hearing on whether the city of Centerville should enact an interim ordinance and call for a moratorium on Planned Unit Development (PUD) within the city’s M1 and M2 zones while its planning documents are reexamined, the Centerville City Council, by a vote of 3-2 (Council Member Russ Koski and Mayor D. Love opposed), will support a study of its planning documents and will not pause development.
While most of the 18 citizens who expressed their views at podium favored a moratorium, most of council did not.
During the public hearing, which was held at Centerville Elementary to accommodate a large number of engaged citizens, council members reiterated their support of private property owners to sell their land, if that is what they wanted to do. A handful of speakers at the hearing also emphasized that a moratorium would take away the right to sell one’s own property.
Other citizens said that a failure to enact a moratorium might mean apartment buildings sprouting all over. Many citizens said they supported growth, but only for the right reasons and through a thoughtful process.
As the majority of citizens supported a moratorium, the majority also thanked council for allowing them the opportunity to express their views on how to shape the community they live in.
The city had three development options to consider while its Master Plan, Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code were examined. It could continue to allow development as usual; it could halt all development until all three planning documents were in alignment or it could allow certain types of development during a prescribed period of time.
A nuanced moratorium would have allowed only a certain density per acre and would have limited the structure height and number of stories.
The moratorium vote may have gone in another direction had the city not had several downtown properties waiting to be sold to interested buyers.
“It would be a shame to pause certain developments for a year. We’ve received a number of proposals for Block 7,” said City Administrator/Engineer Mark Statz. (Block 7 on Centerville Road between Heritage and Sorel Streets has been waiting to be developed for almost 20 years.) The owners of the LaLonde property said they were pursuing a townhome style of development with potential developers, as well, he said.
Added to the sense of urgency was the city’s acceptance of some $400,000 in federal grant dollars to develop Block 7 for affordable housing. The grant money already having been used to install infrastructure on a piece of land that has yet to be fully developed has created a bit of unease.
Loretta Harding is a contributing writer with Press Publications. She can be reached by emailing news@presspubs. con or calling 651-407-1200.
Firefighters welcome home their new engine, a 2024 Rosenbauer.
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Engine 1 is equipped with a 1,000-gallon water tank that can pump up to 1,500 gallons per minute. Engine 1 will replace Engine 11, which has served the fire district since 2001.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Centerville Main Street Market
When: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22
Where: Next to Centerville Elementary, 1721 West View Ave.
Details: Shop among local artisans, pick up produce from a neighborhood farmer, enjoy live music and grab a bite to eat from a food truck before walking to the nearby Bald Eagle Water Ski Show that starts right after the Market. Weekly theme nights. Contact: facebook.com/ CentervilleMainStreetMarket
ONGOING EVENTS
MAHTOMEDI AREA FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays through Sept. 28
Where: Veterans Memorial Park
Details: Local growers, artisans, community resources. Contact: mahtomedimarket.wixsite.com/mahtmarket
WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon through October.
Where: Clark Street between Second and Third Streets Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week. Contact: whitebearlake.org
HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’
When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N. Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited.
Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com
CRIBBAGE
When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26; the 4th Monday of every month
Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N., Hugo Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-429-4413
CURRENT EVENTS
LEARN TO STAND UP PADDLEBOARD
When: 1-2:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve Details: Instruction followed by time on the water. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
AUTHOR VISIT
When: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23
Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square Details: Visit and book-signing with nationalbestselling author William Kent Krueger. Contact: facebook.com/people/Lake-CountryBooksellers
ARTISAN AND VENDOR FAIR
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24
Where: Hippodrome Ice Arena, 4855 Bloom Avenue Details: Crafters, makers, boutiques, and vendors. Contact: sunriseeventsandcraftshows.com
MEET WARGO’S ANIMALS
When: 3:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24
Where: Wargo Nature Center
Details: Learn about reptiles and amphibians up close while learning about the characteristics, behaviors, and habitats. Registration information online. *Adaptive session for children with cognitive or physical disabilities 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
CAMPFIRE TALKS WITH A NATURALIST
When: 7-7:45 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Campground Details: Family-friendly naturalist-led presentation on Otters. Free.
Contact: anokacountyparks.com
SUMMER LAWN CONCERT
When: 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.
Details: Concert by Monica Livorsi focuses on different characters from Jane Austen’s novels. Rain or shine; pay-what-you-want admission. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.com
WHAT’S IN A NAME PART V-BALD EAGLE
When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26
Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St.
Details: Free presentation explores the streets and parks around the area and how they got their names through the years.
Contact: whitebearhistory.org
BIRDING BY BOAT
When: 9 a.m.-noon Wednesday, Aug. 28
Where: Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve
Details: Look fof birds from a canoe or kayak. Registration information online. Contact: anokacountyparks.com
CAREGIVER EDUCATION: REDUCING THE STRESS OF AN UPCOMING MOVE
When: 2-3 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28
Where: Zoom
Details: Educational tips for those considering a move or who would like to declutter for the future, led by
Gentle Transitions Pioneers. Registration required. Contact: 651-632-5320 or lyngblomsten.org
WALDFEST
When: Monday, Sept. 2
Where: Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, 8390 Lofton Ave. N., Grant
Details: Enjoy beer and food while listening to polka among the tall pines.
Contact: gasthausbavarianhunter.com
LUNCH WITH A NATURALIST
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 4
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
BUSINESS BRIEF
Lyngblomsten will offer fall prevention class
Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes will offer, “A Matter of Balance,” a fall-prevention class from 1 - 3 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays from Sept. 9 through Oct. 3.
A Matter of Balance is a program designed for older adults to manage falls and increase activity level. Two trained coaches will guide participants through education and activities that emphasize strategies to reduce fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. Participants will improve balance, flexibility and strength while viewing falls as controllable.
Register by Sept. 2 online at https://yourjuniper.org/Classes/Register/4466, or contact Cyndy Rudolph via email at crudolph@lyngblomsten.org or phone 651-6325330. Lyngblomsten is located at 6070 Blanchard Blvd., Lino Lakes.
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Week of August 11 – 17, 2024
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SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Judging ‘The best’
Ihave been in the industry for a little over a decade. I’ve entered various contests, mainly the Minnesota Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contest and most recently the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists Page One Awards, but I’ve never been on the other end of it.
Shannon’s
Shenanigans
Shannon Granholm
Perhaps that’s why when an email landed in my inbox from America’s Newspapers seeking judges I thought “let’s see what this is all about.”
I was invited to be a judge for this year’s Carmage Walls Commentary Writing Prize, which honors excellence in editorial page and column writing. The contest seeks to recognize strong, courageous and positive editorial leadership.
The prize is named for the late Benjamin Carmage Walls, whose newspaper career spanned seven decades. Walls primarily owned community newspapers. His daughter — Lissa Walls Cribb — is CEO of Southern Newspapers.
I was invited to read through columns in the 35,000 and under circulation bracket. Journalists hailed from Kansas, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Texas, North Carolina, Oregon and more.
Topics ranged from injustice, corruption, discrimination, environmental issues, public records requests, banning of books and more.
I was very impressed with how much time and energy went into most of these columns. You could tell that the writers knew what they were talking about, and in a lot of cases, the column read more like a story, which I really enjoyed.
I am always drawn to columns that let readers in and talk about personal topics. It made me reflect on some of my columns that I have written about the death of my father, Frosty’s journey with degenerative myelopathy and battling postpartum depression after my son Royce was born.
I was also struck by the amount of courage it took for these writers to come out and voice an opinion and what they thought solutions could be on controversial topics in small towns, where everyone knows everybody.
Two other judges and I were tasked with coming up with the top three columns in our circulation group. We agreed on our top two but had to talk it over a bit to come to a consensus on our third favorite. Now, our top three picks will go to another group of judges, and if we choose to continue judging, we will read the top three from another set of judges tasked with picking from a different circulation group.
I plan to continue judging and I am eager to find out who the winners will be. The awards will be presented this October in Charleston, South Carolina, at America’s Newspapers Senior Leadership Conference. In addition to recognition for a job well done, the top three in each circulation category receive cash prizes.
I’m glad I decided to carve some time out of my schedule to be a judge. I enjoyed reading the columns and found it to be very inspirational. Perhaps next time I receive an email asking me to be a judge I might just do that.
Shannon Granholm is the managing editor at Press Publications.
Life continues to be a wonderful adventure
IAbout the Town
Gene Johnson
t was 10:15 Saturday morning, Aug. 3, when the fire alarm went off at our condo. We didn’t see any fire or smoke or even smell it, but we departed quickly from the first floor via the outside stairs. Within seven minutes the police were there and a couple minutes later the fire truck arrived. The condo caretaker, Brian Mabe, came over from his house and the fire crew made some quick inspections. It was discovered one of the tenants was cooking bacon with the door open to the lobby. This happened within the last two weeks to the same tenant.
The report didn’t include whether the bacon was thicksliced or not. It appeared to be smoked.
We were all safe and no damage. Thankfully we have a prompt and prepared fire department in our communities.
This became a special event for our 56th wedding anniversary. We had been generally homebound after Kathy had a knee restoration five weeks ago.
On a very warm Aug. 4 day in 1968 we were married in a
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little country Baptist church in Bloomquist, Minnesota, which was north of Olivia where I had a home with my 12-year-old daughter, Julie, and owned the Oliva-Times Journal.
Our extended guest list was invited to a luncheon at Smiley’s Supper Club in Olivia and following that a good friend, the late Sander Pearson of the Red Owl store, served a Scandinavian picnic in our back yard.
Recently Kathy asked me what was my memory of the wedding day and I said it was when we were leaving home for our honeymoon. I confronted her mother for advice on how we should handle our first night. This German Lutheran mother of their only child quickly answered, “Be sure you have your pajamas under the pillow in case of fire.” Her quick wit and humor made for a great mother-in-law.
I returned the question to Kathy. She said it was when our 12-year-old daughter Julie came running up to her after the ceremony and said with great delight, “Now I can call you Mom.”
Our 6,000 mile honeymoon took us to Banff, Lake Louise, a boat ride on the Tacoma Sound, and a trip to California to visit with a sister and brother’s families. Then on our way home I surprised her with a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. It was topped off with a nice visit at
Custer, South Dakota. Life continues to be a wonderful adventure and we’re very thankful to God for all the years we have had together visiting many countries of the world and salt water cruising.
Local news
Local news is critical to the well-being of a community. People rely on the news departments of the newspaper web-sites to stay informed about important events affecting their lives. When a community is informed and their communities are safe and progressive, the healthier they become.
A study that was commissioned by America’s Newspapers, with Coda Ventures, found the five reasons people look to their local news sources and information about where they live.
1. To stay informed.
2. To feel connected to the community.
3. To decide where they stand on local issues.
4. To find places and things to do.
5. To talk to other people about community news.
You can also follow us on our website and social media pages.
Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.
THE CITIZEN | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
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Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits.
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Back to school: Join us as we learn, grow together
The beginning of a new school year is a reminder that we all learn and grow. No matter what age we are, we all have a lot to learn and opportunities to grow.
Pastor’s Ponderings
Tim Heinecke
Oftentimes, one of the best ways to learn is with others! We can glean from their experience and even encourage one another. None of us are ever done learning and growing.
King Solomon was known as one of the wisest people to ever live. He tells us, “Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the upright and they
COUNTY BRIEFS
County Board adopts 20242029 Strategic Plan
The Washington County Board of Commissioners has adopted the 2024-2029 Strategic Plan. The plan was developed with input from stakeholders, including the County Board. It includes updated mission, vision and values statements for the county. The plan also outlines four main priorities for the next several years: organizational excellence, safe comunities and thriving people, strong and sustainable environment and financial health and capacity. Each priority has goals and objectives with measures to track progress and ensure accountability. County staff will now start working on an implementation plan to put the plan into action.
Audio-visual upgrades coming to boardroom
The Washington County Board of Commissioners has approved a $642,032 contract with AVI Systems, Inc. to upgrade the audio-visual (AV) system in the county boardroom, overflow areas and control room. The project will update the AV system to improve live broadcasting, simplify access for residents and stakeholders, and support dedicated video streaming platforms
will add to their learning.” (Proverbs 9:9)
There are many opportunities to make this happen. At New Life, we gather on Sunday mornings and throughout the week to do just this.
Starting Sept. 11, children will gather to learn and grow together each Wednesday. Seven-year-olds through fifth grade will gather from 6 to 7 p.m. for Kids Club. Sixth grade through 12th grade will gather from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for Crossfire.
All are welcome to join us as we learn and grow together!
Tim Heinecke is the pastor at New Life Lutheran Church in Hugo.
Tim Heinecke is the pastor of New Life Lutheran Church in Hugo.
with closed captioning. The new system will also allow for multicasting to the county website and social media channels and will give the county’s cable access channels access to the video feed.
The upgrades will include better equipment to provide system redundancy, protect devices, and save default settings. The control panels will be updated for a simpler user interface and improved boardroom operations. The project is scheduled to be finished before Nov. 12.
Apply to be a recycling
ambassador Registration is now open for the fall 2024 Washington County Recycling Ambassador Program. Recycling Ambassadors must commit to six virtual training sessions where they will learn about food scraps recycling, climate change, environmental justice, household hazardous waste and general recycling.
ads to run ONE TIME, the week
The program runs Sept. 10 through Oct. 15 and workshops (via Zoom) will be held every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. To register, or for more information, visit www. washingtoncountymn.gov/631/ Education-Resources.
COMMUNITY BRIEF
Dog rescue collects shoes
Mary Vomela
Age 78 of Hugo passed away surrounded by family. Preceded in death by parents Phyllis and William Peterson; brother Bob; brother in law Gary. Survived by husband, Jim;
WEEKLY WAG
If you are active and you like long walks, jogging, running or hiking and you’re looking for an active partner, then Leonard is waiting for you. He would do very well with an active family or as a doggie addition with another active, playful dog. Leonard is good-natured and he loves to run and play. He is a 2-yearold Labrador Retriever/Pit Bull mix and weighs about 70 pounds. Leonard is social with other dogs and friendly to all the people he meets. He is young, smart and eager to please. Leonard knows his basic commands and he is house trained and crate trained. His foster says Leonard is a “really good dog” and one of the reasons he gets along so well with other dogs is because he mirrors their play style. He will
POLITICAL BRIEF
Candidates file for office
The deadline to file for local mayoral, city council and school board races has passed, and we now know who will be on the ballot for the general election Nov. 5.
In Centerville, two candidates are running for Mayor, including current Mayor D. Love and Nancy Golden. The city of Centerville also has three candidates running for two seats including current Council Member Russ Koski and David Kubat and Garland Port. There is also one candidate running unopposed for a special election seat, Anita Rios. Current Hugo Mayor Tom Weidt
NAMES IN THE NEWS
FaerieLand Rescue, a corgi and German shepherd rescue organization in the north metro, is collecting gently used and new shoes through the end of September. All sizes and types of footwear will be accepted. Shoes will be given to populations in need, and in turn, the rescue will receive a cash donation. There are several drop off locations throughout the Twin Cities, one of which is in Lino Lakes. For more information, or to arrange a drop off, contact ksymanietz@hotmail.com.
Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan recently announced the following appointments to the Metropolitan Area Water Supply Policy Advisory Committee. Hugo City Council Member Phil Klein has been re-appointed to serve on the board. His term will expire Jan. 4, 2027.
The Metropolitan Area Water
children, Jill (Tim), Julie (Mike), Jim, and Joe (Lisa); grandchildren, Ashley Severson, Mallory Sandberg, Aaron Pillar, Ethan Pillar, E. Patrick Stella, Dominic Stella, Lily Stella, Allison Vomela, Maggie Vomela, Anthony Vomela, and Annie Vomela; 4 great grandchildren. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at St. GENEVIEVE CHURCHST. JOHN SITE, 14383 Forest Blvd N Hugo, MN. Visitation one hour prior to Mass at Church. Interment at St. John Cemetery, 5446 147th St N, Hugo, MN following the service. Memorials preferred to the Church of St. Genevieve. Arrangements by Honsa Family Funeral Home.
chase and run with the fastest of them and he is gentle with those who have slowed down a bit. In addition to exploring and playing, Leonard loves the water. Leonard is an owner surrender and if you are interested in learning more about him or adopting him, fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue. org.
has filed for re-election along with current Council Member Mike Miron, both unopposed. Current Council Member Phil Klein is running against Benjamin Krull for the Ward 2 seat. For White Bear Lake Area Schools Board, six candidates are running for three spots. Candidates include current board members Scott Arcand, Angela Thompson along with Brian Cern, Tim Klecker, Dan Skaar and R Scott Smith. For Centennial School Board, four candidates are running for three seats. Candidates include current board members Craig Johnson and Sue Linser, along with Laura Gannon and Heidi Hansen.
Supply Policy Advisory Committee oversees water supply planning and implementation for metropolitan area communities. Additional information about the committee can be found online at https://commissionsandappointments.sos.state.mn.us/Agency/ Details/44.
CHURCH DIRECTORY Find
CHURCH DIRECTORY Find church that needs
CHURCH DIRECTORY
- 9:00 AM
Saturday at 4:30 pm Parish Community Center
Sunday at 10:30 am Parish Community Center 6995 Centerville Rd, Centerville www.stgens.org 651‐429‐7937
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
To advertise here, call Randy at 651-407-1212 or email
COPS&COURTS
HUGO POLICE REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following incidents:
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies cited a motorist at 5:53 p.m. July 5 on Frenchman Road and Everton Avenue N. for driving after revocation and failing to provide proof of insurance. Another motorist was cited at 4:09 a.m. July 6 on Oneka Parkway and 147th Street N. for driving after revocation and for displaying tabs that expired in February 2023. A third motorist was cited for DAR in the 5000 block of 170th Street N. at 9:20 p.m. July 6. The fourth motorist was cited at 9:53 p.m. July 6 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for failing to present a valid driver’s license and for not wearing a seatbelt.
• Running over mailboxes in the dead of night as a practice may have been replaced by mailboxes being stolen altogether, after a mailbox and its flag were reported stolen at 6:07 p.m. July 7 from the 9000 block of 130th Street N.
Less than two hours later, residents in the 12000 block of Goodview Avenue N. reported their mailbox stolen.
• A juvenile motorist was issued a written warning at 10:13 p.m. July 7 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for failure to stop at a red light.
• Two vehicles received citations under their windshield wiper blades July 8 for being parked on a public roadway while displaying expired registration. At 8:48 a.m. July 8, a vehicle parked in the 13000 block of Europa Court received a citation for tabs that expired in June, and at 9:03 a.m. a vehicle parked on Europa Court N. at Europa Trail N. was cited for tabs that expired in May.
• Residents in the 5000 block of Fairpoint Drive N. at 10:30 p.m. July 8 reported finding a GPS tracker on their vehicle that they did not install.
• A motor vehicle parked in the 5000 block of 127th Street N. was reported keyed on two doors at 8:12 a.m. July 9. This activity was caught on video surveillance. Residents in the 15000 block of French Drive N. reported a tire on their vehicle slashed overnight July 8-9.
• A motorist was cited at 8:32 a.m. July 10 on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. at Geneva Avenue N. for speeding 42 mph in a posted 30 mph zone by deputies who clocked the vehicle on radar. The citation also included a fine for displaying tabs that expired in June.
• After deputies responded to a report of a loose cow in the 9000 block of 180th Street N. at 12:34 p.m. July 10, they were unable to make contact with the owner, and the cow remained on the lam.
• Deputies assisted the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office at 5:06 p.m. July 19 in the 14000 block of Glenbrook Avenue N. in rounding up a hit and run vehicle and its driver.
• It’s a plane, it’s a bird, it’s SpaceX . . . as deputies were dispatched out to the 6000 block of 145th Street N. at 8:31 p.m. July 10 to check out suspicious activity in the sky. The report described a mysterious object in the evening sky that resembled a cluster of bubbles at 2,000 to 3,000 feet. After deputies didn’t find anything in the sky and cleared the call, did see something they could not identify.
• Deputies pulled over numerous motorists on July 11-12 and cited four. First, a driver was cited for speeding at midnight July 11 in the 8000 block of 170th Street N. A second motorist was cited at 4:32
p.m. July 11 on Fondant Avenue and 141st Street N. for rolling through a stop sign, and the third was cited at 4:11 p.m. July 12 for failure to signal a lane change. A fourth motorist was cited at 8:36 p.m. July 12 on Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for expired registration.
• A suspicious male reported at 3:37 p.m. July 11 for sitting suspiciously in a car on 180th Street N. and Henna Avenue N. turned out to be a surveyor.
• A business in the 15000 block of Freeland Avenue N. at 4:29 p.m. July 11 reported a male for dropping a vehicle off for service and having the payment canceled. He also received multiple calls stating the car was not owned by the male who dropped it off. Deputies advised the complainant to seek a civil resolution.
• Deputies observed an injured sandhill crane in the 13000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. at 7:21 p.m. July 11 and moved it off the roadway and into a cardboard box with the help of some bystanders.
• A boom lift was reported stolen at 8:40 p.m. July 11 from the 4000 block of Fable Hill Parkway N.
• Solicitors have been plying the city throughout the summer, and deputies took two reports, one at 8:58 p.m. July 11 in the 14000 block of Fondant Avenue N., and another at 11:29 a.m. July 13 in the 6000 block of 138th Street N.
• A large verbal dispute was reported at 2:37 p.m. July 12 in the 15000 block of Goodview Avenue N., after the daughter’s former friend brought her family with her to fight the complainant and her family. When deputies arrived, they found a large number of people arguing outside the residence and, at the request of the homeowner, trespassed everyone who arrived in a vehicle.
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a motorist for DWI at 2:19 a.m. July 13 on Leopold Lane, after they observed him cross over the fog line and onto the shoulder before attempting to make a right turn. When deputies pulled the vehicle over and made contact with the driver, they noticed all the classic signs of intoxication about him. Following standardized field sobriety testing, deputies took the driver into custody and released him with a citation for careless driving.
• Two juveniles were reported for trying to steal unlocked bicycles lying on the ground by the community pool on Farnham Avenue N. at 6:23 p.m. July 13, as part of ongoing issues with a new “problem house” in the area.
• Deputies cited a motorist at 12:24 a.m. July 14 on 140th Street N. and Forest Blvd. N. for driving after revocation and failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for speeding 47 mph in a 35 mph zone. On July 16 at midnight, deputies cited another motorist in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for presenting an expired driver’s license, following a traffic stop for semaphore violation. A westbound motorist was cited for speeding 41 mph in a 30 mph zone at 7:31 a.m. July 16 on Oneka Lake Blvd. N. at Geneva Avenue N. by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol in their marked squad who clocked the vehicle on radar. A fourth motorist was cited at 8:50 p.m. July 16 on Forest Blvd N. and 120th Street N. for passing other vehicles via the rightturn lane.
• A fight involving several juveniles was reported at 12:45 a.m. July 14 in the 4000 block of 129th Street N., after a female broke three tables and slapped the complainant following an argument.
• A theft from a party in the 4000 block of 129th Street N. was reported at 12:35 p.m. July 14.
• A resident in the 15000 block of French Drive N. at 2:35 p.m. July 14 reported juveniles living down the road for cursing at his children and threatening the complainant, as part of an
ongoing issue. When the complainant said he didn’t want the youths on his property, deputies spoke to the mother of the juveniles. The mother said she was frustrated with the neighbors calling law enforcement about her children. When deputies provided the mother the address to which her children were not to go, she said she understood, but still expressed feelings of harassment by the number of complaints about her children.
• Two suspicious vehicles reported for being parked at a cemetery in the 5000 block of 147th Street N. at 7:36 a.m. July 15 turned out to be people just chatting. Deputies broke up the gathering.
• A resident in the 13000 block of Isleton Avenue N. at 11:36 a.m. July 15 reported receiving a fake email alerting him that his Norton Security antivirus software was supposedly expiring soon, even though he had bought his computer in the past year. The complainant believed the message and was on the phone to a representative who advised him he would receive via email a digital form to fill out and submit. When the complainant completed the form, he learned that he owned $5,000 instead of the stated $500 and that he needed to send $4,500 to make up for the error. The complainant then spotted the scam, refused to send any money and hung up on the “representative”.
• Deputies received four complaints about a solicitor going door to door without a permit July 16-18 in the 6000 block of 145th Circle N., in the 5000 of 149th Street N., in the 14000 block of Geneva Avenue N. and in the 5000 block of 128th Street N. Deputies finally encountered the elusive solicitor, who said he wasn’t selling anything.
• A resident in the 4000 block of Victor Path N. at 6:32 p.m. July 16 reported her roommate for being in the residence while she was away. Deputies reminded the complainant that the roommate is entitled to be in her own residence.
• A resident in the 16000 block of Jeffrey Avenue N. at 8:18 a.m. July 18 reported that a crew burying cable near his property was using heavy equipment that caused an unreasonable amount of shaking to his house, such that his sheetrock vaulted ceiling had come undone and two brick blocks on the front of his house cracked. Deputies on scene while the crew was working noted that the equipment did shake the house in an unreasonable manner. Deputies gave the complainant their business card, for future reference.
• Deputies cited a motorist at 12:33 a.m. July 19 on Victor Hugo Blvd. N. for not having a valid driver’s license and for failure to provide proof of insurance, after they conducted a National Crime Information Center database check on the vehicle and pulled the vehicle over for history of not carrying a valid license. Another motorist was cited at 6:02 a.m. on Forest Blvd. N. for using a wireless communications device while driving. A third motorist was cited at 6:18 a.m. on Forest Blvd. N. for failing to yield to oncoming traffic, failure to signal a turn and for displaying expired registration. A fourth motorist was cited for speeding at 10:27 a.m. on Forest Blvd. N. and 146th Street N. A fifth motorist was cited at 6:25 p.m. July 20 on southbound Forest Blvd. N. at 120th Street N. for passing other vehicles by using the right-turn lane. A sixth motorist was cited at 10:20 p.m. July 20 on Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway N. for no insurance, after being pulled over for not having illuminated headlights.
• This time, the vehicle itself was cited at 6:06 a.m. July 20 in the 14000 block of Arbre Lane N. for displaying tabs that expired in March 2024.
Loretta Harding
READ • REUSE • RECYCLE
If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet.
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LIBERTY CLASSICAL ACADEMY: Township hits pause button in rural district
FROM PAGE 1
uses are appropriate in our rural residential areas, as well as create an opportunity for significant public input, and to ensure that all allowed uses closely align with the township’s comprehensive plan, which states that commercial and institutional uses are generally not appropriate within the rural residential district.”
He noted things like feedlots, commercial kennels, care facilities, commercial recreation areas and resorts are all listed as potential conditional uses in the township’s RR district [based on] language adopted from the county code many decades ago, most without well-defined
CENTERVILLE TIDBITS
performance standards, “thus meriting greater review and public discussion.”
Supervisors also directed town staff to consider the time needed to undertake a comprehensive analysis during the moratorium, “with the intent of possibly compressing the moratorium into six or eight months, versus the current 12 months allowed under state statute,” said Pazlar.
intends to use the parcel in May Township for the septic system, an accessory building, a storm pond and a portion of an open recreational field.
Because the property in May Township is zoned Rural Residential (RR), the use of property as a part of the school requires a CUP.
Since LCA’s CUP application was proposed to the township, there have been several meetings including public testimony to discuss the school’s future expansion plans.
neighbor,” said Pazlar. “The open question relates to the size and scale of the proposed facility and the related infrastructure to be accommodated by the township, that is, what is the aggregate impact of an expansive K-12 campus in that rural residential area, relative to the Withrow elementary school that existed there previously.”
Nealy Corcoran is a contributing writer for The Osceola Sun, a sister publication to The Citizen.
LCA proposed a 33,590-square-foot addition to the existing Withrow School building at 10158 122nd St. in Hugo. LCA seeks to add the property, including an unaddressed property to the east in May Township, to the existing Withrow School site. LCA
• The city’s email system was recently hacked, which has led to the city to enter into a master services agreement and statement of work from Cybersecurity Forensic Consulting – Arete/ McDonnald Hopkins LLC to determine what information may have been accessed. The combined fees are estimated to be $10,750, which are reimbursable from the insurer, the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust LMCIT, less $500 deductible.
Several weeks ago, a city employee clicked on a link that turned out to be a spoofed invoice, claiming to be from one of the city’s vendors. The cyber-criminal was able to gain access to the employee’s email and Microsoft 365 account. They began sending emails out from the employee’s email address. City staff worked with its IT providers to identify the problem and lock the account. City staff also called the city insurance carrier, LMCIT, who acted quickly to add resources to its IT provider’s response. The combination of the law firm, McDonnald Hopkins, and IT forensic expert, Arete, were recommended to assist the city in determining what information may have been accessed and/or shared.
Work under this contract has already begun, due to the time-sensitive nature of the task. Council’s approval confirms the city’s commitment to the contract.
COMMUNITY BRIEF
Forest Lake Masons put on Sunday Brunch
The Forest Lake Masons will host a Sunday Brunch Drive Thru or Dine in from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29 at the Forest Lake
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 8/18/2024
“In general, most of the residents I have heard from are in favor of a school in that area, and have found Liberty Classical Academy to be a very good
• Every year the city contracts with Corrpro Companies, Inc. of Medina, Ohio for an inspection and recalibration of the water tower’s cathodic protection system. This equipment protects the water tower from corrosion and extends its life and that of the coating system (paint). This year, the city will pay $925 using money from the Water Fund.
• Council formerly appointed Deanna Loomis to the Parks and Recreation Committee, following the retirement of one of its members. After the opening on the committee was promoted, city staff received an application from Loomis. The Parks and Recreation Committee interviewed her and unanimously recommended her for the position.
• Hay Creek will hold their company picnic at 7129 20th Ave. from noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 15, after council approved a special event permit.
• Curt Rivard received a Park Facility Usage Permit for a kite flying event to be held at Laurie LaMotte Memorial Park.
The council next meets at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 28 at City Hall, 1880 Main St.
Loretta Harding
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week
Masonic Lodge. The event will match funds from the event to donate to The Forest Lake Area Children’s Fund. For over 30 years, the fund has been providing new coats, boots and snow pants to children in the
Forest Lake Area School District. Attendees have a choice of pancakes and sausage or a European breakfast wrap.
The Forest Lake Masonic Lodge is located at 119 8th Ave. SE.
PUBLIC NOTICES
CITY OF HUGO
ORDINANCE 2024-531
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING HUGO CITY CODE, CHAPTER 90, ARTICLE II, SECTION 90-47 EXCEPTIONS TO YARD REGULATIONS THE CITY OF HUGO ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. Amend. The City Council of the City of Hugo does hereby amend Chapter 90, Article ii, to amend Section 90-47, of the Hugo City Code pertaining to EXCEPTIONS TO YARD REGULATIONS (1)(b) to state the following: b. The required minimum side yard a distance not exceeding three feet, inclusive of rain gutters and other such appurtenances; SECTION 2. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its adoption and publication according to law.
ADOPTED by the City Council this 5th day of August, 2024. Tom Weidt, Mayor ATTEST: Michele Lindau, City Clerk Published one time in The Citizen on August 22, 2024.
CITY OF HUGO
SUMMARY ORDINANCE 2024-532
MDAN ads to run ONE TIME, the week beginning 8/18/2024 Metro
or restrictions, including siting and location of uses, related to the sales, testing, manufacturing, and distribution of cannabis and lower-potency hemp products.
The City Council of the City of Hugo has passed an Interim Ordinance on the sale, use, manufacturing, and distribution of cannabis and lower-potency hemp products within the City of Hugo for one year. This moratorium does not apply to the sale of edible cannabinoid products in exclusive liquor stores.
Please note this title and summary of this Ordinance clearly informs the public of the intent and effect of the Ordinance and conforms to Minn. Stat. § 412.191. This Ordinance shall be effective the date that it is published.
The entire ordinance is available at City Hall for review. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Hugo this 5th day of August, 2024.
Tom Weidt, Mayor
Attest: Michele Lindau, City Clerk
Published one time in The Citizen on August 22, 2024. RICE CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED RULE REVISION
White Bear Class of 1958 65th Year Reunion
Thursday, September 19th 3pm-6pm Hugo American Legion Food & Drinks available for purchase RSVP: Dean Shawbold 651-246-0592
Your newspaper has agreed to participate in the Minnesota Display Ad Network program by running these ads in the main news section of your newspaper (not the classified section of your newspaper). At times, advertisers may request a specific section. However, the decision is ultimately up to each newspaper. Ads may need to be decreased/increased slightly in size to fit your column sizes. Please do not bill for these ads. If you have questions, please call MNA at 800/279-2979. Thank you.
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 PROHIBITING THE SALE, TESTING, MANUFACTURING, AND DISTRIBUTION OF CANNABINOID PRODUCTS
During the 2023 Legislative Session, a law was enacted that provides a regulatory framework for the sale and manufacturing of cannabis and hemp products, and for the licensing of cannabis and hemp businesses, and establishes a State Agency now called the “Office of Cannabis Management” (OCM), which is expected to be established by January 1, 2025. The Act also allows for local governments to adopt an interim ordinance until January 1, 2025 on cannabis businesses. Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 462.355, Subd. 4, the City is authorized to enact by ordinance a moratorium to regulate, restrict or prohibit any use within the jurisdiction to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. City is authorized to enact a moratorium ordinance to allow it to undertake a study to determine whether to adopt any regulations
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE That the Rice Creek Watershed District Board of Managers has scheduled a public hearing to receive public comment under Minnesota Statutes 103D.341 regarding the District’s proposed rule revisions on Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Public participation using interactive technology will also be possible using Zoom. Please contact Theresa at tstasica@ricecreek.org for instructions. In addition, by a declaration under Minnesota Open Meeting Law Section 13D.021, all meetings of the RCWD Board of Managers are in person and public while recognizing that a Manager may, based on advice from a health care professional, have a legitimate reason for not attending a meeting in a public place in person, such as COVID-19 exposure or infection, and in such circumstances may participate in the meeting remotely. Information regarding the proposed rule revisions can be viewed on the District’s website, www.ricecreek.org, or at the District office, 4325 Pheasant Ridge Drive NE, Suite 611, Blaine, MN 55449. Written comments can be directed to Patrick Hughes by email at phughes@ricecreek.org or by mail at the above address. All comments received by end of business on September 20, 2024, will be a part of the public record and given due consideration by the District.
Your newspaper has agreed to participate in the Minnesota these ads in the main news section of your newspaper per). At times, advertisers may request a specific section. each newspaper. Ads may need to be decreased/increased Please do not bill for these ads. If you have questions, please
City Council extends cannabis moratorium
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
HUGO — Third time is a charm.
The city of Hugo will extend its cannabis moratorium. The moratorium was set to expire last month, but it has been extended through Jan. 1, 2025.
City Planner Rachel Juba explained that a new law enacted at the end of the 2023 Legislative Session legalized adult–use cannabis in Minnesota and established a regulatory framework over the cannabis industry. Included in the law is the creation of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) that will be responsible for licensing all cannabis related businesses.
“The OCM predicts it will have procedures in place by Jan. 1, 2025,” Juba said. “The law also allows cities to adopt an interim ordinance to place a moratorium until Jan. 1, 2025, on the businesses involving these products to allow the city to consider restrictions on the time, place and manner of operation of cannabis businesses.”
City staff recommended the council adopt an ordinance extending the moratorium until Jan. 1, 2025.
Residents Dean Anderson and Bell Ryan, who own property on 177th Street N., said they are hoping to operate a cannabis operation known as Solace Farms,
Background
• In 2022, the legislature legalized the sale and use of edible cannabinoid products.
• On Aug.15, 2022, the City Council approved an interim ordinance on THC products for one year.
• At the end of the 2023 Legislative session, a new law was enacted that legalized adult–use cannabis in Minnesota and established a regulatory
LLC on their 20-acre parcel.
“I’m really looking forward to growing in this industry,” Anderson said. “Cannabis really changed my life and pulled me out of a dark place.”
Anderson suggested the city consider hosting its own dispensary, as it would be “an amazing way” for the city to generate tax revenue.
He expressed his frustrations with the process from the state level, but said he very much wants to be involved in the ongoing discussions at the city level that will regulate cannabis businesses.
“We take this very seriously,” he said. “We want to make sure we are a partner in the community.”
Ryan added, “We want to be a part of the conversations and guide you and help you. You are likely not going to get a lot from the state
Blue Heron Days
framework over the cannabis industry. Included in the new law is the creation of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) that will be responsible for licensing all cannabis related businesses.
• On July 10, 2023, the City Council approved a 12-month moratorium.
• Aug. 5, the City Council approves a moratorium extension through Jan. 1, 2025.
… we just want to be a part of the conversation.
Juba explained that city staff will now begin the text amendment process, which will eventually result in a public hearing before the planning commission and eventually go to the council.
City Administrator Bryan Bear said if residents have questions in the meantime, they should reach out to Juba and her team. “We are doing our best to work through it and it looks like we will get there before the end of the year,” he said.
Mayor Tom Weidt echoed those thoughts. “We have a lot of stuff to work through … All these questions you have, we have too.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs. com.
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM
• The Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network continues to host its Hamburger Nights. The next one is scheduled for 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26 at the American Legion, located at 5383 140th Street N. The ribbon network will celebrate its 15th anniversary in January 2025.
• Madison Siebenaler is the city’s “newest” seasonal employee in the public works department. She previously served in the role this summer and will stay on board while she searches for full-time employment.
• The parks commission has a new member, Andrew Reding. Three people applied for the vacancy and the City Council decided Reding would be the best fit after conducting interviews. The council has also appointed Victor Shevchuk to fill a vacancy on the Economic Development Authority. Three people also applied for that vacancy.
• Thomas Lowenberg will donate $200 to the Hugo Fire Department.
• The city has tweaked its policy that regulates the use of public facilities. The policy was updated in 2022 when online rentals became available. The minor text changes to the policy clarify the cleanup regulations and alcohol insurance requirements. The most
substantial change is that open flames (candles) are no longer allowed.
The planning commission recommended the council also make changes to an ordinance as it relates to egress windows. City Code allows for lot line setback exceptions for several typical house features such as window wells/egress windows, decks, porches and air conditioners. In reviewing the code, city staff found that the allowance for window wells/egress windows in the side yard to encroach 2 feet into the setback requirement does not meet building code. Building code requires a window well/egress window to have an opening of at least 3 feet, an issue that has come up in a few building permits over the last year.
• The city will continue to participate in Washington County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) program. The next three-year cycle will begin Oct.1, and end Sept. 30, 2027.
• Several pieces of city equipment that are no longer used by the public works and fire departments that are no longer use will hopefully be sold via an online auction service.
• The vacant outlot located in the Shores of Oneka Lake development, located at the intersection of
Goodview Avenue and 159th Street, will be developed into five apartment buildings with 12 apartment units in each building (for a total of 60 apartment units). This will bring the total units for The Shores of Oneka Lake plan to 279 units.
• The city has agreed to pay approximately $17,000 to Lakes Center for Youth and Families in 2024 to support programs for Hugo families relating to counseling, intervention and enrichment.
• Bradley and Jamie Anthony can construct a fence within a drainage and utility easement on their property located at 5910 Freeland Court North. Jacob and Lydia Mussehl have also been granted an encroachment agreement to construct a fence within an easement on their property located at 15510 Goodview Trail North.
• Shoot for the Troops will host a shooting event Wednesday, Sept. 11 at Wild Wings of Oneka.
• Residents who live within the Browns Creek Watershed District and are interested in serving on the board should contact City Hall. Two board members’ terms expire Oct. 21.
Shannon Granholm
0% APR for 72 Months with
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Allysa Nadeau is officially sworn in as an engineer to the Hugo Fire Department. Nadeau joined the department in December 2021. As a part of the swearing in, Nadeau’s three children pinned on her new badge.
Voting Ends August 25 at 5 p.m.
FINANCIAL PLANNING
Developing a safety net for financial literacy
A financial safety net can help people navigate the ups and downs of life. Developing that safety net requires a measure of financial literacy that anyone can nurture.
• What is financial literacy?
The United States Department of Education defines financial literacy as an understanding of how to earn, manage and invest money. That recognition can increase the chances that individuals make sound financial decisions, thus setting them up for long-term success and stability.
• What makes financial literacy so important?
The benefits of financial literacy are not limited to theoretical notions such as the ability to understand money makes individuals more likely to make sound decisions regarding their finances.
Indeed, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) notes that financial literacy has been proven to produce positive results. In a National Financial Capability Study, FINRA found that respondents who exhibited higher financial literacy were more likely to make ends meet than those without such knowledge.
Sixty-five percent of respondents with higher financial literacy were able to set aside three months’ of emergency funds at higher levels
than respondents with lower literacy levels. The study also linked financial literacy to longterm stability, as more than half of respondents 52% with higher financial
literacy calculated their retirement savings needs, an important step that fewer than one in three 29% with lower literacy levels had taken.
• What are some additional benefits of financial literacy?
Individuals are often confronted with a host of options when making financial decisions. That includes choices regarding bank accounts and credit cards, which are two variables related to financial literacy that individuals encounter every day.
Individuals with financial literacy can pick a bank account that most suits their needs, whether that’s standard accounts like checking and savings or something more unique like a high-yield savings account.
Knowledge of financial basics also can prepare individuals to choose the right credit card, which can be a more difficult decision than choosing a bank account given the number of different cards available. Low-APR, no-APR, travel rewards, cash-back cards and balance transfer cards are some of the options consumers can choose from when picking a credit card. Financial literacy increases the chances consumers pick the card that best suits their short- and long-term needs.
Financial literacy can help people navigate challenges that periodically arise during the course of everyone’s life. Taking time to learn some financial basics can set people up for long-term economic health.
Financial literacy can help people navigate challenges that periodically arise.
Powr Hockey aims to empower girls on, off the ice
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Two local hockey moms hope their new brand will empower girls, both on and off the ice.
Kristy Swenby, of Blaine, and Michelle Schlipp, of Centerville, both grew up blocks away from each other in Circle Pines while they were in elementary school. Both are Centennial graduates.
Swenby was on the first Centennial girls’ hockey team back in the 90s. “I didn’t really have any formal training before then … I joined on a whim as they were starting the new team,” she recalled. “That was my first exposure to girls hockey as it was becoming more popular.”
Although Schlipp never played hockey herself, she grew up around the sport because her father played hockey and several nieces and nephews. Fast forward all these years later and both of their daughters are involved in the sport. Swenby’s 10-year-old daughter plays, and so do Schlipp’s 7 and 8-year-old daughters.
A couple of years ago, the two were talking in the middle of hockey season about how there seemed to be a lack of equipment that was specifically designed for female players, and the idea for Powr Hockey was born.
“When you look at hockey, there are so many big brands that are focused on men and their needs,” Swenby said. “We were thinking it would be awesome to take a step back and create something special — just for girls.”
The hockey moms started researching and connecting with people in the manufacturing industry. They knew they wanted their first product to be a stick. So, they began experimenting with length, design and flexibility.
“We wanted to create something that was going to be lightweight and easy to use,” Swenby said. “Through testing, we have been able to perfect that mix.”
After several rounds of prototypes, the first stick was officially launched and introduced to the market at the
end of 2022. Their first stick was pink, and since added subsequent colors teal, black and purple.
Schlipp says it has been fun engaging with their customer base via social media to find out what colors and products they would like to see in the future.
The brand is gaining traction. So far, the two say customers have provided “awesome feedback” and several of them have already been repeat customers. “We know they are finding something they love,” Swenby said.
The hockey moms regularly attend local events and hockey tournaments to share their brand. The two just hosted an on-ice photography session and hope to offer an outdoor hockey event this winter with skating and hot chocolate.
Powr Hockey continues to support players both on the ice and off, by sponsoring local teams and participating in different events and fundraisers.
Swenby and Schlipp say it has been fun to be a part of the hockey community, which they described as “supportive and positive.”
Back when Swenby played for Centennial, there was no trainer feeding program for girl athletes, and girls teams often got the last pick of ice times. Now with opportunities to play college hockey and in the Profession Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), the dreams are endless.
“Now it feels like we are on a more even playing field and we are able to grow with the sport and bring other girls to the sport,” she said. Schlipp added, “Girls hockey is just getting bigger and bigger and it has been so much fun to be a part of that.”
The hockey sticks are only sold online via powrhockey.com. Swenby and Schlipp hope to create more products tailored to female hockey players like gloves and hockey bags, but for now, they remain focused on the stick.
Managing Editor Shannon
Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
PHOTOS BY JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED
Michelle Schlipp (left), of Centerville, and Kristy Swenby, of Blaine, are the founders of Powr Hockey, a company that designs hockey sticks for female players. The two grew up in Circle Pines.
Powr Hockey designs hockey sticks that are made specifically for female athletes. The sticks are available in four colors.
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O’Neill blazes to Chomonix title by 11 strokes
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Nick O’Neill shot a torrid 68 in the first round and coasted to his fourth Chomonix Golf Club championship by an 11-stroke margin Saturday and Sunday.
“I was hitting the ball really well, and made all the putts I should have made, including a couple long ones,” recounted O’Neill about the four-under-par round that included six birdies along with a double bogey on No. 15.
O’Neill closed with 76 on Sunday for a 144 total. He had triple- and double-bogeys but was steady otherwise. “I was playing a little conservatively on Sunday,” he said.
Max Cory was runner-up with 82-73-155 and Carter Korkowski third with 83-73-156 after they tied for the low round Sunday. Cory cut nine strokes and Korkowski 10 strokes off their Saturday rounds.
O’Neill, also club runner-up four times, recorded his best-ever tournament rounds with the 68 and 144. He had a 67 once while playing with some buddies. Two years ago, he won by eight strokes with 152.
The 29-year-old Lino Lakes resident, who works for Red Wing Shoes, has been a club member since 2013. He’s been men’s golf president for three years and plays league golf twice a week.
At Centennial, he played four years without reaching state. “I never really figured it out when I was in high school,” O’Neill said. But he kept at it and improved markedly as an adult.
Alex Rogan, his former Cougar teammate, is a five-time Chomonix champion, and they’ve frequently dueled each other for club honors, but Rogan wasn’t competing this year.
“Alex’s sister was getting married, so he couldn’t play Saturday,” O’Neill explained. “He called Saturday night to see how it was going. I told him that he’d probably have a tough time winning this year.”
Rost, meanwhile, was impressive in his first time competing in the championship flight. Rost attended CHS at the same time as O’Neill. He was a football and hockey star and didn’t play golf. “Over the years, he’s gotten better and better,” O’Neill said.
Tyler Lowry, second with 75 after Saturday, shot 83 Sunday and finished fourth at 158 among 12 entrants in the championship flight, Brandon Lee was fifth with 82-79-161 and Carter Gooder sixth with 83-80-163.
In the first flight, Joe Kayser placed first of 14 entrants with 78-90-168, edging Brad Matrious (88-81-169), Mitch Newton (84-85169) and Dylan Zuk (87-82-169). Matrious officially placed second. Ryan Nelson won the second flight (84-93-177). Phil Lasky won the third flight (97-97-195).
Lund wins seniors John Lund was senior flight champion by a wide margin in the Chomonix tournament. Lund shot 73 Saturday and 75 Sunday for low gross honors with 148. Among 12 entrants, Dave Hoehl was second with 87-85-172, Joel Hobert third with 92-89-181 and Ron Bole fourth with 93-92-185. The low net winner was Jim Dunlap with 143.
Cougars lose at state to reigning champions
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The Centennial town baseball team drew a daunting task for their first-ever state tournament game Saturday. The Cougars were matched with the 2023 and 2021 state champions, Air Freight United (AFU), and its dominant left hander Graham Laubscher. The St. Paul company team stymied Centennial 6-2 in the Class B first round at Jordan. Cougar manager Joe Cyzewski felt it was a good showing, especially
since they were within 4-2 going into the last of the eighth.
“The kids represented themselves well, for what we had to go up against,” Cyzewski said. “We had 12 strikeouts, but he (Laubscher) had 18 or 19 one game last year.”
The Cougars, in their seventh year of existence, finished their best season 19-15.
Centennial nicked Laubscher for two runs in the sixth inning, pulling within 4-2. Ryan Burley singled, Damon Thoemke walked, Logan Karnowski singled to drive home Burley, and Thoemke scored on Joe Pelle’s ground out to deep shortstop.
“We had them worried. I’m proud of that,” Cyzewski said. “They had two guys warming up in the bullpen, despite having him on the mound.”
Laubscher is a state tourney legend. Last year, the former Stillwater and St. Thomas star struck out 60 batters in 29 innings, giving up two runs.
Joe Klebba pitched the distance for the Cougars. The 2022 CHS graduate and current UM-Duluth player fell behind 4-0 after three, then kept them in the game with four shutout innings after that. The righthander faltered in the last of the eighth when he gave up three of his five walks. AFU added two insurance runs.
“We are not quite ready for a team like that. They are 25, 26, 27 years old. They’re all Division I players from teams like St. Thomas and Miami of Ohio,” Cyzewski said. “Our guys are 18, 19, 20. But we played well.”
Golfer qualifies for U.S. Amateur event
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Joel B. Johnson of Hugo is headed for the U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship after tying for third place in a qualifier Aug. 8 at Medina Golf and Country Club.
Nicholas Jarrett of Rochester and Max Tylke of Rosemount tied for first with 70, twounder-par. Johnson and Trent Peterson of Eagan were next, each shooting 72, even par. Travis Meyer of Wisconsin also shot 72. Johnson and Peterson prevailed in a playoff with pars on the first hole.
Those four earned
spots in the national tournament Sept. 21-26 at Kinloch Golf Club in Manakin-Sabot, Virginia.
“USGA events are special,” said Johnson, in the MGA report on the tournament. “The courses are amazing, and you get to play against the best amateurs in the country, even the world. You don’t get that opportunity very often.”
Johnson, 53, qualified for two national tournaments last year, the U.S. Amateur Four-Ball Champions and the U.S. Senior Open. His home course is Dellwood Country Club.
Aceituno succeeds Ottosen as Cougar soccer coach
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Longtime Cougar boys soccer coach
Jeff Ottosen has retired and his successor is Felipe Aceituno, the B squad coach the past three seasons.
“I’m excited to take on a solid group of individuals. I was fortunate to work under Coach Ottosen, and have known most of the boys,” said Aceituno, who started pre-season workouts Aug. 12.
“This senior class freshmen when I started four seasons ago at Centennial.”
Ottosen called Aceituno and suggested he apply for the position.
“I was honored that the previous coach felt I was up to the challenge,” Aceituno said.
Ottosen, a 1992 Centennial graduate, has coached in the program since 1999. He had state tournament teams in 2018 and 2019 and winning records the last seven seasons, going 68-28-9.
Aceituno played for St. Paul Central and Dakota County Technical College, and still plays in a men’s league, MRSL D2. His main occupation is senior sports director at the YMCA. He was a personal trainer for several years.
Matt St. Martin, activities director, made the hire. He stated: “Coach Aceituno’s vision and mission for the Centennial boys soccer program will build upon the solid foundation that is in place from previous years of on and off field success. He will be an outstanding asset to our school community as a whole.”
A coach since 2008, his other posts have been with the Valley United, Lakes United and Centennial SC clubs; Roseville Area (freshmen and varsity assistant); St. Paul Johnson (JV and varsity); and Lancaster High in Virginia (varsity).
Nick O’Neill watched his drive on No. 12 Sunday. He shot 68 and 76 on Sunday for his fourth club championship.
The Centennial Cougars assembled for a team photo after the franchise’s first-ever state tournament game Saturday at Mini-Met Ballpark in Jordan.
Felipe Aceituno
Crop Art Classes at WBCA Prep Students for the State Fair
Something seedy is growing at White Bear Center for the Arts. Under the expert guidance of Marta Shore, assistant superintendent of Crop Art and Scarecrow at the Minnesota State Fair, a group of artists have honed their skills and are ready to submit their crop art to the State Fair. Starting in July, WBCA held crop art classes and work sessions to teach students how to create their seed mosaics. The introduction class filled in a snap and work sessions were even attended by veteran award-winning crop artist Dan Lindquist.
Crop art began as a way to introduce fairgoers to Minnesota-grown crops in 1965. It has gained popularity as an art form and become a hallmark of the Minnesota State Fair. The artwork can depict anything, but submissions are often inspired by pop culture, from puns and memes or
celebrity portraits to political commentary. Submissions to the competition are under what can seem like strict guidelines with the State Fair committee accepting submissions made only with seeds from Minnesota-grown farm crops, and no wild plant seeds, white rice, or sesame seeds allowed. But there’s one secret Marta tells students,
“you make it, they put it up.”
As long as you adhere to the supply rules and the three nonos of crop art (no swearing, no solicitation, no slander), artists will get their designs hung up at the Ag-Hort-Bee building.
As a longtime competitor herself, Marta knows this; the first piece she ever made was displayed at the State Fair in 2015. Marta only moonlights
as a crop artist. By day, she teaches biostatistics at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health.
In the almost 10 years that she’s been making crop art, she has won every ribbon but first place. Now, as superintendent, she has forfeited the competition and decided to help others get into the craft instead.
So, in the month between her first class and the State Fair entry deadline, Marta has taught her students about the history of crop art, from
icons like Crop Art Queen Lillian Colton, who won nine best-of-show ribbons in 11 years starting in 1966, and Cathy Camper, who through her crop art portraits of Malcolm X, George Floyd, Ilhan Omar and the like, opened a new crop art avenue for political commentary at the State Fair. Students learn everything from selecting the right materials and executing intricate designs, to tips, tricks and tools of the trade. They learned how to paint miniature seeds, strategies for placing hundreds of seeds on a board and even how to apply to the State Fair competition. At the end of August, as you wander and eat your way through the Great Minnesota Get-Together, don’t forget to stop by the Ag-Hort building to peruse the crop art. You might even see a White Bear Lake entry from Marta’s class at WBCA.
Mexican Clay Makes a Pilgrimage to Minnesota
White Bear Center for the Arts is prepping to host the Mata Ortiz Pottery Sale again for the first time since its run in 2019. From Sept. 1821, renowned artists from the small village of Mata Ortiz, in the Northern state of Chihuahua, Mexico will display their pottery at WBCA for a special four-day sale.
With bright, intricate pots decorated in earth-toned animals, nature, and scenes depicting small microcosms on the surface of the clay, Mata Ortiz pottery is known for its intricate designs. Its origins trace back to the ancient Paquimé civilization which flourished in Northern Mexico a thousand years ago. The pottery style was lost when the city was abandoned and destroyed. It was revived by Juan Quezada Celado, a local woodcutter who, at 12 years old, came across ancient pottery shards while gathering wood in the
hills. The shards came from Casas Grandes, now the archaeological site of a once thriving Paquimé city about 20 minutes from Mata Ortiz.
For years after, he underwent the process of attempting to recreate and rediscover the ancient shapes and patterns. Juan and other villagers developed the distinctive style now known as Mata Ortiz using wild clay from the hills of Mata Ortiz and natural pigments.
In 1967, Social Anthropologist Spencer MacCallum stumbled upon one of Juan’s pots in a New Mexico shop and traced them to Juan. Spencer and his wife spent their lives creating a pottery marketplace in Mata Ortiz, introducing the work of Juan and eventually hundreds of other artists to the world. Since then, their work has gained international acclaim with pieces exhibited in museums across the globe and drawing the
Upcoming Events
Fire, Earth, Air, and Water Community
Reception
White Bear Center for the Arts
September 10, 6:30-8:30 PM
The Ford Family Gallery will be filled with ceramics, glass, paint, fiber, beads, writing and metal sculpture from the North Shore Artists League from Sept. 3 to Oct. 18 as artists
attention of art collectors worldwide. White Bear Center for the Arts’ Mata Ortiz Sales Event marks a significant cultural exchange as Cesar Bugarini, Mata Ortiz potter from Chihuahua, Mexico, and José Mario Jimenez, art dealer and presenter of La Iguana Art Gallery in Tucson, Arizona, representing 37 Mata Ortiz artists congregate in White Bear Lake to share their heritage with a new audience. The sale features over 250 Mata Ortiz pots as well as artisanal textiles from the area. Each piece, crafted by hand without using a potter’s wheel, shows the expertise passed down through generations.
In addition to the pottery sale, the event will include presentations of Mata Ortiz and its history by José and demonstrations by Cesar giving visitors the rare opportunity to watch a Mata Ortiz artist shape, paint and fire a pot using traditional methods.
explore the heart of northern nature. Gather with the community to see all their works and hear from the artists at the artist panel, “How to Start.”
Artist Talk with Jessica Turtle White Bear Center for the Arts
September 12, 7:00-8:00 PM
Jessica Turtle is heading a new mural at WBCA inspired by images and ideas shared by the community. Hear Jessica talk about the mural process from crowd-sourcing photos, creating her design, and gridding out and painting a large-scale mural.
For art lovers, this is more than just a sale — it’s a cultural celebration that bridges borders and brings the rich traditions of Mata Ortiz to our own backyard.
All About Jane with Monica Livorsi
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center Lawn Sunday, August 25 - 1:00 PM
Monica Livorsi performs songs from her original album with a Jane Austen theme. Tickets are paywhat-you-want; advance reservations are required. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket.
“From Barry”: The Perfect Pop Songs of the Bee Gees
The Hanifl Performing Arts Center
Saturday, September 14 - 7:30 PM
Mick Sterling presents his love letter to Barry Gibbs in this Bee Gees tribute concert.
5 Cigars and Suds
7-8 Grape Stomp St. Croix Vineyaeds
Sept. 12 Puzzle Night 6p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept. 12 Music: Justin Barts 4p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept. 13 Summer Sounds Series–Featuring The BZ Girls Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Sept. 15 Makers Market 11a Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept. 15 Music: Josh Quinn 2 – 5p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept. 18 Music: Gracenotes 5:30 – 8:30p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept. 19 Music: Sarah VanValkenburg 4p Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept. 21-22 Grape Stomp Festival
Sept. 22 Hatha Yoga/Brunch
w/Krista Porvanznik 9a
Sept. 22 Oktoberfest 12p
Dancing Dragongly Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Sept. 22 Music: Mihael August 2 – 5p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept. 25 Music: Patrick Allen 5:30- 8:30p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept. 29 Music: Steve Poynter 2 – 5p 7 Vines Vineyard
Sept. 29 Makers Market 11a
Belle Ame Vineyard
