The Citizen

Centerville remembers people’s council member

BY LORETTA HARDING

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Council Member Steve King, who died on Aug. 20 after serving for 10 years on the Centerville City Council, was a public servant who questioned just about everything. Sometimes, the rest of council and city staff were stumped at a question King posed.

King’s wife, Donna King, said that when his colleague, Russ Koski, first joined council in 2017, he told her, “I don’t understand where Steve gets the questions to ask.”

“Steve is so analytical,” Donna said. “God was always at the top of his list, and he held strong beliefs,” she said. “But even when he was young, he questioned.”

Along with his questioning,

King “earned the respect of fellow council members by his ability to disagree and debate with civility and thoughtfulness,” said City Administrator/Engineer Mark Statz.

King was not afraid to be the lone voice of dissent on any given issue; he often championed the cause of

Centerville 2024 budget increases, but in flux

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

At the moment, Centerville's 2024 preliminary budget and general fund levy are fluid.

But in a good way. The city has until the end of December to finalize the budget. The key, however, is that after the city submits the preliminary budget to the county at the end of September, the budget is not allowed to increase. Between now and finalization, however, the budget may decrease.

That realization is the central to the city's budget strategy between now and December.

Little Hot Hands carries on late husband’s legacy

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Many people in the north metro are familiar with the name “Chef Hot Hands,” but they might not have heard of “Little Hot Hands” just yet.

Esmerelda Jiles is the wife of Larry Jiles Jr., who was also known as Chef Hot Hands. He was one of two people killed in a shooting on Dale Street in St. Paul

in February. Chef Hot Hands, originally from St. Paul, moved to Hugo when he was 13 and graduated from White Bear Lake High School in 2006 with a dream of opening his own restaurant.

Before his death, Chef Hot Hands had been operating a restaurant and catering business in downtown Centerville. That business has since closed its doors and a salon now resides there, but Chef Hot Hands’ name

continues, thanks to his wife, who lives in Stillwater.

For the past couple of months, Esmerelda has been operating Little Hot Hands, inspired by both Larry and their 6-year-old daughter, Brialee. “She’s my Little Hot Hands. She would always tell Larry, ‘I want to cook something’, ‘Dad give me some work,’” Esmerelda explained, adding

The Centerville City Council has approved the 2024 preliminary budget and general fund levy —and even padded it a little bit — to cover capital improvement contingencies.

The reason for the unusual maneuver is that Council Member Russ Koski pointed out that some major capital improvement expenditures were in the offing, and he didn't want the city to be unprepared for cost spikes.

Koski moved and council unanimously passed a proposal to increase the proposed levy by $25,000.

The proposed budget has been evolving since the first figures were calculated in August. Finance Director Bruce DeJong presented two changes since the August planning meeting. Some $5,000 was added to the police contract on the expenditures side, DeJong said. This

Stillwater resident Esmerelda Jiles brings her little pink food truck to area events and businesses.

Steve King

Breakfast with the Mayor: ‘The city is moving forward’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Mayor Tom Weidt recently provided an update on infrastructure improvements, city initiatives, community development and public safety at the annual Breakfast with the Mayor event, hosted by the Hugo Business Association (HBA).

“It was really a summer that was concentrated on road issues, road repair and road conditions. Most of you can see in your own neighborhoods … it was a horrible winter, it got warm and cold and warm and cold and it really did a number on the roads in Hugo,” Weidt said. “We’ve been concentrating a lot on how to get those fixed and budgeting for that.”

The city recently revisited its capital improvement plan (CIP), which plans out street projects for the next five years. Each year, the city’s Public Works Department evaluates each of the roadways and their condition. The city of Hugo will need to complete an estimated $14 million of projects in the next five years. “This year they had to redo the list. We have a list of projects that need to be done; some moved up on the list quite dramatically because of the damage that was done,” Weidt explained. “We have a lot of projects that we have to do, some sooner than later.”

As the city continues to grow, the cost of running the city continues to go up. “These road projects are something that we have to account for and figure out a way to cover these going forward, because if we take five years off of building a road, we are going to be a big trouble.”

One project that is ongoing is the construction of the roundabout on Highway 61 at 159th Street. The project, estimated to cost $2.1 million, should be done sometime in early 2024.

“There have been multiple accidents on this road,” Weidt recalled.

A couple of visioning studies are also underway for area roads. The state is in the process of turning over to Washington County the portion of Highway 61 that goes through Hugo. As a part of this project, there is an ongoing study for the corridor to see what updates and improvements might be needed before the turnback takes place.

BUSINESS BRIEF

Can Minnesota’s foreign trade zones help

your bottom line?

Are tariffs and duties for your global business a significant drain on your bottom line?

A foreign trade zone designation may be the answer to serious savings. The Washington County Community Development Agency and Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development are ready to help explore the benefits and cost savings offered by foreign trade zones (FTZs) through a virtual workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Whether importer, exporter, merchandise processing, warehouse or manufacturer — however you work in the global economy — you may be paying significant tariff, duties or processing fees. Foreign

WEEKLY WAG

Mario (officially Mario Andretti) has one speed: wide open! If you are single or an active couple looking for a walking, hiking and/or running partner, then Mario is your boy. Mario is a handsome Siberian husky/Labrador retriever mix. He was found as a stray and spent a month at a local shelter before arriving at Ruff Start Rescue, where he entered into the organization’s foster program.

Mario is almost 2 years old and weighs about 55 pounds. He is social with other dogs and is friendly around everyone he meets. As his name suggests, Mario has a very high energy level, so his forever family definitely needs to consider that. He would do great with an active person, couple or family with older children. Mario may be too high energy for small, young children. He would also do well with a dog sibling.

Mario’s foster family loves him tremendously, and they’re looking for the perfect forever home match for him. If you are interested in learning more about Mario 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.

“We are working through that process right now to determine the best path forward,” Weidt explained. Some feedback received so far through the study process is that motorists appreciate the small-town feel, but would like to see improvements to pedestrian facilities and crossings. Motorists also have some traffic mobility concerns.

A second open house is planned for this fall or winter.

Hugo is also partnering with the city of Lino Lakes on the extension of Otter Lake Road. “Development will continue along that corridor,” Weidt said.

Last month, the city of Lino Lakes approved the preparation of plans and specifications for the extension, which came out of a study that was completed in 2022. The study identified the preferred alignment for the extension of Otter Lake Road north from Main Street (CSAH 14) to the intersection of

trade zones are designed to help global companies that have more than $2 million in revenue potentially realize hundreds of thousands or more in savings.

The virtual information session “Foreign Trade Zones: Possibly the best tax incentive you’ve never heard of” is provided at no cost.

This session features Marshall Miller, president of Miller & Company, a renowned expert in strategies and techniques for importing and exporting and special customs procedures, including analysis of benefits and establishment of U.S. foreign trade zones. The session will help you learn the benefits of FTZs, such as how to defer and reduce duty payments, how to store imported goods and export without incurring duties, and much more. See https://mn.gov/deed and search “Minnesota Foreign Trade Zones”.

24th Avenue/Elmcrest Avenue N., which lies on the border of the city of Hugo. The project is identified for construction in 2025. The first phase of the project, which would include stormwater improvements, are scheduled for construction in 2024. The estimated cost of the project is $8.4 million.

“We are excited about where the city is going,” Weidt said. “We don’t see a lot hiccups going forward in our in our city; it’s running smooth, business is good, residents are happy, the city is a nice place to be, it’s a nice place to work, it’s a nice place to live. And as long as we continue to maintain that, we will be in good shape.”

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

POLITICAL BRIEF

Early voting begins Sept. 22

Early voting in the state of Minnesota will begin for the Nov. 7 general election on Friday, Sept. 17. You can vote early by visiting your local City Hall, or via mail. To vote by mail:

• Go to www.mnvotes.org

• Click on “other ways to vote.”

• Click on “vote early by mail.”

• Fill out the application for an absentee ballot.

• Once you cast a ballot by mail, you can track the ballot and confirm that it was received and counted.

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 761757

PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Hugo Mayor Tom Weidt provides a city update at the Hugo Business Association’s Breakfast with a Mayor event at the Blue Heron Grill.

Fall foliage and fishing

Fall is my favorite season. Every year I look forward to the Minnesota Vikings and a possible playoff run for the Minnesota Twins. But most of all, I look forward to fishing. Recently, I went up to Onamia to fish on Mille Lacs Lake. I haven’t had much luck there as far as fishing goes and I call it the “Dead Sea.” I usually try and fish there at least once a year.

Noelle’s Notes

Noelle Olson

I went out on a four-hour launch recently and didn’t even have a bite (hence the “Dead Sea” comment). However, the launch was entertaining. I was with a friend of mine and it’s always interesting to meet other people on the launch. It’s fun to watch other people catch fish. Someone caught the smallest walleye I’ve ever seen. To be honest, it looked like a minnow. But I was surprised how many larger walleyes were caught. It’s been years since I’ve seen that many walleye caught over 20 inches in Mille Lacs. I should note that Mille Lacs has a possession limit of one walleye between 20-23 inches or one longer than 28 inches. All other walleye must be immediately released. Personally, I like the smallmouth bass in the lake. They are great fighters and I seem to have better luck at catching them. But not this day.

There was a young woman on the launch who did something I had never seen before in my over 50 years of fishing. She was sitting at the back of the launch boat and had just caught a small walleye. After her boyfriend took off the fish, she lost control of her fishing pole. I was looking at her and all of a sudden I saw her pole slowly slip from her hands and go into the water. I didn’t say anything but my friend said, “Captain, we have a pole overboard.” She didn’t panic but softly said to her boyfriend, “I just dropped my pole in the water.” He told her not to say anything. I couldn’t help but laugh. The “captain” was too busy in the front of the boat and didn’t know this had happened. If you’ve never been on a launch at Mille Lacs, the boats are pretty big and have plenty of room for people to move around freely. Needless to say, he never knew a fishing pole was missing when we left the launch.

Fall foliage

Fall colors are starting to emerge in the St. Croix Valley. I live in St. Croix Falls and immediately noticed the leaves starting to change color while driving home recently on Highway 95. It really is a spectacular sight when those leaves are at their peak. It inspires people to drive for miles just to look at the splendor of color before they fall to the ground. What we don’t think about is whether we have to rake or leaf blow them into a fire or a bag. When I lived in Ohio, we had to bring them to the curb and the city picked them up. That was really nice because we had a lot of leaves. My kids loved jumping into the pile of leaves when they were young. What child doesn’t? I know I did. Honestly, I don’t like the work but it’s what we do every year when we have trees in our yard. And if you have a cabin, it’s extra work. But I believe it’s worth it to have trees and it’s a great way to get together with my kids and family. It goes by much faster when you have a lot of rakes working. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has a great resource on its website to see when the peak colors will arrive in a town near you.

Noelle Olson is editor of the White Bear Press. She can be reached at 651-407-1229 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

School resource officers play valuable, meaningful role for students

Legislator Lingo

Ihope everyone has enjoyed the tail-end of summer as we head into the season of fall colors, football Sundays, pumpkin spice everything, and the start of a new school year. To all our community’s students, parents, teachers and school staff, I wish you a great year of achievement and success.

As an alumnus of our local public schools, I remember feeling both anxious and excited during the first days back on campus. Whether it be from the all-too early morning alarm clock, the fear of not finding my classroom in time for the bell, or getting the first homework assignment of the year, the first days of a new school year always came with some trepidation. Despite the initial worries, I was lucky to be surrounded by peers, teachers, staff and

Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election. Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that.

Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $45 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

Letters for or against a candidate

role-models who always made sure I knew that everything would be alright.

One of these role-models was Officer Touma, our school resource officer (SRO). He would always go out of his way to give us all a smile, chat with us during lunch, and check in on us when it was apparent something was wrong. He would also occasionally break-up a school fight and conduct public safety measures in severe situations.

He became a friend and trusted protector to many of us. His passion for helping students did not go unnoticed. He even earned the 2015 Service to Youth Award from Northeast Youth and Family Services.

Occasionally, I’ll still say hi to Officer Touma while I see him out and about. To me, he will always be the role model I met in high school.

Fast forward to 2023. Minnesota House Democrats included a provision in their education bill to prevent SRO’s from having the tools necessary to effectively do their jobs. With liabilities higher, and new, ambiguous laws that make it harder for an

SRO to ensure school safety, resource officers in our district and across the state are being pulled from schools altogether. This law the DFL passed is shortsighted, erroneous, and dangerous altogether for every Minnesotan who works or learns in a school.

My GOP colleagues and I are calling on Governor Walz to set aside politics. We need a special session so we can pass legislation that will ensure School Resource Officers are available for our students this year, just as they were there for me years ago.

While we wait and hope for action by the DFL majority, I’ll continue to support our school resource officers just as they have stood by us.

The safety of our students and teachers cannot wait. We need to act now to give every student, parent and teacher what they deserve: Safe schools.

Rep. Elliott Engen represents District 36A. He can be reached by phone at 651-296-2365, or by email at Rep.Elliott.Engen@ house.mn.gov

LETTER GUIDELINES FOR ELECTION SEASON 2023

will qualify as paid letters.

Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification. Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits. Four weeks (or issues) must pass

between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer.

Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.

Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters. Letters reprinted as part of letter-writing campaigns are paid letters. All letters are subject to editing.

We reserve the right to not publish any letter. The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication. The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 7 election will be printed in the Oct. 19 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.11.

To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com, fax it to 651-4291242 or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF HUGO MINNESOTA

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENTS

2023 BIRCH TREE PONDS AREA STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

To Whom It May Concern:

Notice is hereby given that the City Council will meet at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 16, 2023, to consider and possibly adopt, the proposed assessment against abutting property for the 2023 Birch Tree Ponds Area Street Improvements Project. Adoption by the City Council of the proposed assessment may occur at the hearing.

The proposed assessment roll is on file for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office. The total amount of the proposed assessment is $672,900.00. Such assessment is proposed to be payable in equal annual installments extending over a period of 10 years, the first of the installments to be payable on or before the first Monday in January, 2024, and will bear interest at the rate of 5.25% per annum from the date of the adoption of the assessment resolution. To the first installment shall be added interest on the entire assessment from the date of the assessment resolution until December 31, 2024. To each subsequent installment when due shall be added interest for one year on all unpaid installments.

A property owner may at any time prior to certification of the assessment to the county auditor, pay the entire assessment on such property, with interest accrued to the date of payment, to the City of Hugo. No interest shall be charged if the entire assessment is paid within 30 days from adoption of this assessment. A property owner may at any time thereafter, pay to the

Take part in Halloween costume swap

The Washington County Environmental Center will host a Halloween costume swap.

Costume drop-off will take place through Oct. 10, and costume shopping will be Wednesday, Oct. 11. Bring your clean, gently used children’s costumes to the Environmental Center. Donations will be accepted in the drive-through lane and inside the main entrance of the free product room. The Environmental Center at 4039 Cottage Grove Drive in Woodbury is open:

• Tuesday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

• Thursday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

• Friday: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

• Saturday: 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Costume shopping day will be 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11. Visit the free product room at the Environmental Center to browse for freeu sed costumes. Donations are not required to receive a costume; costumes will be limited to one per child.

County receives $1.6 million Bureau of Justice Assistance grant

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will receive $1.6 million under the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Byrne discretionary community project funding/Byrne discretionary grants program. The Sheriff’s Office is responsible for providing public safety services to the residents and visitors throughout Washington County. On average, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies drive 2 million miles per year, patrolling a 423-square mile county. They are responsible for patrolling state, county and local roadways, providing law enforcement services to a county with a population of more than 270,000 residents.

The grant will allow the Sheriff’s Office to purchase 20 Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles and two river patrol boats. The two river patrol vehicles will have equipment for use as a patrol response vehicle for both the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers. These boats will ensure that the water patrol deputies can effectively and safely navigate more than 50 miles of heavily used bodies of water and provide deputies the necessary equipment for a safe platform on these two large federal waterways.

County board sets public hearing on youth access tobacco ordinance

The Washington County Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing for proposed revisions to the Washington County youth access to tobacco ordinance No. 185 Oct. 3.

The hearing will be during the board’s regular meeting at 9 a.m. in the Board Room of the Government Center at 14949 62nd St. N. in Stillwater.

State law sets the local retail tobacco regulations across Minnesota. This law was changed in 2020 and is already in effect throughout the state. The changes in the state statute included raising the minimum age for tobacco purchases to 21 years of age and increased the administrative fine amounts for retail tobacco violations.

The proposed revisions to the ordinance will:

• Update the ordinance language so the related statute changes are reflected.

• Increase the minimum tobacco sales clerk age to 18.

• Increase the minimum license suspension time frame for repeated violations.

Gibson reappointed as county surveyor

The Washington County Board of Commissioner has reappointed Samuel D. Gibson as the Washington County surveyor for a four-year term beginning Oct. 1. State law requires this appointment to a term not

City of Hugo the entire amount of the assessment remaining unpaid, with interest accrued to December 31 of the year in which such payment is made. Such payment must be made before November 15 or interest will be charged through December 31 of the succeeding year. If a property owner decides not to prepay the assessment before the date given above the rate of interest that will apply is 5.25% per year. The right to partially prepay the assessment is not available.

Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting. No appeal may be taken as to the amount of an assessment unless a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the City Clerk prior to the assessment hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing. The City Council may upon such notice consider any objection to the amount of a proposed individual assessment at an adjourned meeting upon such further notice to the affected property owners as it deems advisable.

An owner may appeal an assessment to district court pursuant to Minn. Stat. 429.081 by serving notice of the appeal upon the Mayor or City Clerk within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with the district court within ten days after service upon the Mayor or City Clerk.

Under Minn. Stat. 435.193 to 435.195, the City Council may, in its discretion, defer the payment of this special assessment for any homestead property owned by a person 65 years of age or older for whom it would be a hardship to make the payments. When deferment of the special assessment has been granted and is terminated for any reason provided in that law, all amounts accumulated plus applicable interest become due. Any assessed property owner meeting the requirements of this law and the resolution adopted under it may, within 30 days of the adoption of the assessment, apply to the City

exceeding four years. Gibson was first appointed as county surveyor Oct. 1, 2019.

Board continues with contracts for northern environmental center

The Washington County Board of Commissioners has approved contracts with companies that will build a county household hazardous waste collection facility in Forest Lake. The county’s environmental center in Woodbury has been operating for more than a decade. A similar facility, along with a yard waste collection site, is being built in Forest Lake.

The contracts include:

• Kellington Construction Inc. in the amount of $239,975 for carpentry on the project.

• Hoffman & McNamara Co. in the amount of $223,310 for landscaping and irrigation on the project.

Clerk for the prescribed form for such deferral of payment of this special assessment on his property.

Dated this 18th day of September, 2023.

BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

Michele Lindau, City Clerk City of Hugo, Washington County, Minnesota

Published one time in The Citizen on September 21, 2023.

CITY OF HUGO

BOARD OF ZONING PUBLIC HEARING

The Hugo Board of Zoning Appeals and Adjustments will hold a public hearing on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at Hugo City Hall at 6:30 p.m. to consider a variance request from Hunter and Brayanna Smith, 12033 Everton Avenue North, Hugo, MN 55038. The request is to allow for an accessory building with a 10-foot rear yard setback, where a 30-foot rear yard setback is required by ordinance. The subject property is generally located east of Everton Avenue North and south of 121st Street North and is legally described as Lots 7, 8, 9, 10, 22, 23 and 24, Block 7, Shadyside No. 4, Washington County, Minnesota. Full legal description is available at City Hall.

Anyone wishing to comment on the request can be heard at this time. Please call Max Gort, Associate Planner at 651-762-6311 if you have any questions or comments on the application and would like to participate in the meeting.

Max Gort, Associate Planner

Published one time in the The Citizen on September 21, 2023.

Board sets preliminary levy, proposed budget for 2024

Commissioners have set a preliminary property tax levy to support the proposed 2024 county budget. The board also adopted a proposed budget for next year. After setting the preliminary levy, the board may reduce it when it sets the final levy in December, but the board cannot increase it.

The certified proposed property tax levy payable in 2024 is $132,715,000. The board also set a levy for the Regional Rail Authority at $660,000, the same as in previous years. The recommended levy would be an increase of 3.95% over 2023. The combination of an increase in the value of commercial property in the county, the addition of new construction to the county’s tax base, and a moderate increase in the levy would result in a reduction to the county tax rate of an estimated 7.3%.

It is anticipated that under the recommended budget, the owner of a median-valued home in the county —valued at $417,000, and which had an 8% value increase from 2023 to 2024 — would see a $9 increase in the county portion of property taxes for 2024, or a 1% increase.

The board will adopt the budget and property tax levy for 2024 Dec. 12. More information on the county budget is available online at www.co.washington. mn.us/budget.

County officials break ground on northern environmental center

Washington County officials, along with partners from the cities of Forest Lake and Hugo, broke ground for a northern household hazardous waste and yard waste site in Forest Lake Sept. 12. The center, which will be across Highway 61 from the Hardwood Creek Library and Forest Lake Service Center, will provide the same services as those provided by the county’s environmental center in Woodbury.

Residents may take household hazardous waste and consumer electronics, as well as recyclables to the center free of charge. The center will also have a free product room where residents may pick up for free items such as paint and cleaners that have been processed by center staff. The center is expected to be open for operation in fall 2024.

The center, built on a 35-acre parcel, will have an operations building for storage, handling and packaging of waste, a covered drive-through drop-off space, and space for offices, the free product room and education. The site will also be home to 10 acres for yard waste management.

It is expected that the new center will serve more than 40,000 customers in the first year, who will recycle 600,000 pounds of electronic waste, such as television sets and computers, and 750,000 pounds of household hazardous waste. It is also expected that residents will receive more than $500,000 in free materials, reusing items from the free product room.

The improvements are being funded through the county environmental charge (CEC), a 35% charge on garbage service, with no impact to property taxpayers through the levy. Revenue from the CEC is used for solid and hazardous waste services, such as environmental center household hazardous waste collections, recycling grants to cities and townships, and environmental education programs.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ONGOING EVENTS

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21; and the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Games begin at 12:45 p.m. Refreshments and coffee served. All senior citizens from the area invited.

Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo. com

HUGO SENIOR CLUB

When: 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 18; the 3rd Monday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Monthly meeting followed by afternoon of games. Refreshments served.

Contact: 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@yahoo.com

CRIBBAGE

When: 12:45 p.m. Monday, Sept. 25; 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

SHOREVIEW INDOOR FARMERS MARKET

When: 3:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15

Where: Shoreview Community Center fireside lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: More than 30 vendors with produce and food items, artisan crafts, entertainment and activities. Contact: shoreviewcommunitycenter.com

DROP-IN 55+ FITNESS CLASSES

When: 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays

Where: Rice Lake Centre, east end of Hugo Public

Fall Fest

What: Lexington Fall Fest

When: Sept. 22-24

Where: South Highway Drive from Restwood Road to Woodlawn Road

Details: The annual event will feature a car show, Family Fun Fest and a Vikings Party. Contact: cowboyssaloon.co.

Works building, 6900 137th Street N.

Details: Free fitness classes for Hugo-area adults 55+ by Live 2B Healthy. Class designed for seniors to help improve balance, strength, and flexibility in a group setting. Periodic fitness tests so participants can track their progress.

Contact: Barb @ 651-592-0369 or barbconnolly1958@ yahoo.com

CIRCLE LEX FARMERS MARKET

When: 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays, June 14-Oct. 4

Where: Back parking lot, Lexington Municipal Liquor Store, 4139 Woodland Rd.

Details: Open air market with local vegetables, crafters, and baked goods. Rain or shine.

Contact: 612-272-3386

WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET

When: 8 a.m.-noon Friday, June 30 through Oct.

Where: Clark Street between 2nd and 3rd Streets

Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week. Contact: whitebearlake.org

MAHTOMEDI AREA FARMERS MARKET

When: 8 a.m.-noon Saturdays, through Sept. 30

Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 109 Mahtomedi Ave.

Details: Local growers, artisans, community resources.

Contact: ci.mahtomedi.mn.us

CURRENT EVENTS

‘THE THREE MUSKETEERS’

When: Sept. 15-Oct. 1

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.

Details: Lakeshore Players’ presents the story of adventure, unexpected heroes, and everlasting friendship. Ticket details online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

FREE PRODUCE MARKET

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Sept. 21

Where: Community of Grace Church, 4000 Linden St., White Bear Lake

Details: All are welcome to pick up free produce. Bring your own bag.

Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

ANOKA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OPEN HOUSE

When: 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21

Where: Anoka County Sheriff’s office, 13301 Hanson Blvd. NW, Andover

Details: Outdoor demonstrations, displays, food trucks, and opportunities to interact with public safety partners.

FALL FEST

When: Sept. 21-23

Where: Downtown White Bear Lake

Details: Celebrate the harvest season with a ladies night out event, Scarecrown Stroll, live music, Polka & Pumpkins in the Park from 1-4 Saturday, and restaurant and store specials.

Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 22

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington

Square, White Bear Lake

Details: Sarah Nelson will sign copies of her children’s book on bird migration, ‘Follow the Flyway’.

Contact: 651-426-0918

ROCKTOBERFEST

When: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22; 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 23; Noon-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24

Where: River Siren Brewing Co., 225 Main St. N., Stillwater

Details: Beer, German-inspired cuisine, and live music at the brewery and in the parking lot. Free admission.

Contact: riversirenbrewing.com

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION

When: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23

Where: Lily Lake Ice Arena, 1208 S. Greeley St., Stillwater

Details: Recycle and dispose of electronics and household hazardous waste. Confidential document shredding.

Contact: 651-430-6702 or co.washington.mn.us

LAKESHORE QUILTER’S GUILD

When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26

Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview

Details: ‘Schoolhouse’ members will share expertise on design boards, wool applique, etc.

Contact: quiltshopcoop.com

FREE PRODUCE MARKET

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Sept. 28

Where: White Bear Lake Senior Center, 2484 County Rd. F. East

Details: All are welcome to pick up free produce. Bring your own bag.

Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

SHOREVIEW COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 15TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28

Where: Haffeman Pavilion, Shoreview Commons,

Details: Celebrate the Foundation, which has provided more than 60 grants to community organizations over the past 15 years. Birthday treats and short program.

Contact: shoreviewcommunityfoundation.org

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 29

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: M.E. Bakos will sign copies of her home renovator mysteries, including the latest ‘Killer Flip’, and Frank Weber will sign his book ‘The Haunted House of Hillman’.

Contact: 651-426-0918

FALL FLEA MARKET

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2484 E. County Road F

Details: Over 20+ vendors on the parking lot and more inside. Baked good and food truck. Come as a shopper or register to be a vendor.

Contact: 651-653-3121

KIDZ N BIZ

When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 30

Where: Oneka Elementary, 4888 Heritage Pkwy. N., Hugo Details: Free community event connects local businesses and families and includes carnival-like activities, inflatables, face painting, demonstrations, prizes, food, and vendors.

Contact: https://mms.hugobusinesses.biz

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1

Where: Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Grant Details: Hike the horse trail that parallels the Gateway Trail out and back. Treats follow at Wildwood Tavern. Contact: stpaulhike.com

TOTALLY CRIMINAL COCKTAIL HOUR

When: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 4

Where: Stillwater Zephyr Theatre, 601 N. Main St.

Details: Mystery lovers and authors come together for conversation and reading inspiration. Oct. event features author Joshua Moehling. Cash bar. Tickets online.

Contact: valleybookseller.com

SENIOR CENTER OPEN HOUSE

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Oct. 6

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2484 E. County Road F

Details: Learn about weekly activities, Meals on Wheels, travel opportunities, screenings and foot care clinic. Visit with vendors and shop at the Craft Corner. Free.

CENTERVILLE TIDBITS

• The citizens of Centerville, as well as its city council, will always remember Council Member Steve King. After Mayor D. Love read a resolution establishing Aug. 20, 2023, as Steven Douglas King Day, council unanimously approved the resolution and shared their thoughts about the loss of a colleague they held in high regard. Several council members cited King’s love of his city and community, his empathy for all citizens and how much they had learned from him. “His contributions will last for many years,” Council Member Russ Koski said. Donna King, Steve’s wife of 50 years, attended the meeting and received council’s Token of Appreciation for Service on behalf of her late husband. She thanked the community for their cards, time and personal messages. “Not many people know this, but he was also a talented artist,” she said. “He was a patriot.”

• Cub Scout Pack 432 and BSA Troop 136 have partnered with the Anoka County Historical Society (ACHS) to install a new exhibit in the city’s history niche at City Hall, which features the story of Scouting through the region. It’s titled, “A Scouting Narrative.”

• The city could be served by up to two more officers next year, after council approved the Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) budget. The budget includes the addition of one more officer. If the CLPD and city receive a public safety grant, they would be able to fund the addition of the second officer. The CLPD budget also includes

salary step increases and capital improvements.

• Earlier this year, the city had started work on establishing no-parking zones throughout the city after trucks waiting to enter businesses on Commerce Drive started to stack up on Main Street. After receiving communications from several companies opposing part of the no-parking proposal, the Planning and Zoning Commission discussed the matter and held a public hearing. The commission determined that one option to solve the issue involved allowing on-street parking in the city’s industrial district and recommended approval of some no-parking areas downtown. City staff researched and carved out a two-hour, on-street parking zone on the south side of Commerce Drive.

To further alleviate parked vehicles stacking up on Main Street, the city will use $7,250 from the street capital fund to contract with Century Fence to stripe Commerce Drive and Progress Road into two northbound lanes and one southbound lane to reduce stacking on Main Street from the drop-off and pick-up lines for Centerville Elementary School.

• The city has received a $1,000 donation as part of its award for the Junior Council Member Program. The donation amount will be deposited into the general fund.

• The city has received $200 in donations from two residents for a park bench to be installed in Eagle Park.

• As cities may accept donations,

they may also give them. After the Forest Lake Area YMCA (FLA YMCA) Board requested a donation of $500, council briefly discussed whether to donate to an organization outside the city and even outside the county. Koski pointed out that the FLA YMCA provides programs to Centerville citizens that no organization in the city is able to provide. And, indeed, 97 of the city’s residents are FLA YMCA members. The Parks and Recreation Committee had also expressed a desire to partner with the FLA YMCA. Half of the donation will come from the parks and recreation portion of the general fund. The other $250 will be budgeted from sources recommended by the committee. The city supports many private nonprofit organizations that serve the public interest, Love said. For example, Alexandra House is such an organization that the city supports, he said. • It happens every year around this time — not Christmas, not spring, but Constitution Week. Sept. 17, 2023 marks the 236th anniversary of the drafting of the United States Constitution by the Constitutional Convention in 1787. Every year, council proclaims this week as Constitution Week, and did so again on Sept. 13. Council follows the lead of the nation’s president, who annually issues the Constitution Week proclamation as required by Public Law 915. The council next meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, at City Hall, 1880 Main St.

Loretta Harding

• The city of Hugo has a new representative on the Metropolitan Council — Gail Cedarberg. Cedarberg is from Mahtomedi and represents District 11. Like the state of Minnesota, the Met Council is subject to redistricting for purposes of representation.

• After nearly two decades of working for the city, public works worker Paul Christianson has submitted his letter of resignation. The Public Works Department will advertise for the vacant position and began the interview process.

• The Economic Development Authority (EDA) is in need of another member after Mike Roberts resigned.

• Nick Heinle, of Prairie Homes LLC, has been granted a variance for 14320 Grantaire Lane to allow window wells to encroach 3 feet, 8 inches into the required side yard setback, where 2 feet is allowed by city ordinance.

• The second phase of Shores of Oneka Lake will plat 14 lots.

• Heidi Harvieux is requesting a minor subdivision of a 40-acre parcel located on Jody Avenue North into a 30-acre parcel and a 10-acre parcel.

• Work continues on the Highway 61 and 159th Street roundabout project. The city will pay its first pay voucher for $514,716 to Arndt Construction Company. The temporary bypass lane has been constructed and existing roadway removals and utility relocations are currently underway.

• Austin and Lauren Hallberg have been given the OK to construct a fence located within a drainage and utility easement on property located at 13129 Geneva Ave. N.

Shannon Granholm

HUGO BITS & PIECES

COPS&COURTS

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

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested an adult male at 9:53 p.m. Aug. 5 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N., following a traffic stop for equipment violation.

• Juveniles were reported at 10:50 p.m. Aug. 5 for throwing toilet paper at trees in residents’ yards near 158th Street N. and Europa Avenue N.

Residents in the 6000 block of 150th Street N. requested extra patrols, after reporting suspicious vehicles parked outside at 2:31 a.m. Aug. 6. The complainant said that people were coming and going from the two unfamiliar vehicles. When deputies arrived on scene and spoke to the drivers, one was cooperative and the other definitely was not.

The uncooperative driver was familiar to deputies due to past contacts, and he was warned that he could not go anywhere near the nearby business he was trespassed from or even drive on that street.

A dog in the 6000 block of 145th Circle N. was reported at 5:40 p.m. Aug. 6 for biting a youth.

• A resident in the 4000 block of 149th Street N. at 10:39 p.m. Aug. 6 reported his neighbor for shooting his girlfriend’s car window with a pellet gun. The front windshield had four distinct marks that appeared to result from being hit by small objects.

• A suspicious vehicle reported at 11:01 p.m. Aug. 6 in Diamond Point East Park in the 6000 block of 145th Street N. turned out to be a man just eating his Subway sandwich and charging his phone.

Deputies asked the driver to leave the park, as it was after hours.

• A suspicious person reported for removing tabs from vehicles in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. at 11:39 p.m. Aug. 6 turned out to be the registered owner removing tabs from one of his vehicles and keeping the tabs in his possession.

• A harassment report at 5:47 p.m. Aug. 8 in the 14000 block of Finale Avenue N. turned out to be a caller trying to scam the complainant.

• Suspicious juveniles reported in the park after hours in the 14000 block of Valjean Blvd. N. at 9:04 p.m. Aug. 8 turned out to be not after hours after all. However, deputies did have to advise the juveniles about the excessive noise ordinance.

• A suspicious vehicle reported parked in front of a house in the 4000 block of Education Drive N. for at least 15 minutes at 12:18 a.m. Aug. 9 and shining a flashlight into the complainant’s window turned out to be deputies in their squad car. The flashlight turned out to be the neighbor’s lawn ornament.

• Can the start of the school year be far away?

A group of juveniles was reported for fighting at 3:43 p.m. Aug. 10 in the 4000 block of Prairie Trail N. Their mutual assault self-defense led to disorderly conduct discipline.

• Juveniles were reported for trespassing at 8:52 p.m. Aug. 10 in the 4000 block of Heritage Parkway N., after deputies were called to the scene of a disturbance. Deputies were dispatched out to the 4000 block of Garden Way N. at 10:44 p.m. Aug. 10 to another juvenile complaint and determined there was no ordinance violation. At 12:14 a.m. Aug. 11, juveniles were reported for ringing doorbells in the 6000 block of 150th Street N. and loitering in the area.

• A resident in the 5000 block of 142nd Street N. at 10:32 a.m. Aug. 11 reported receiving an alert about a credit card application being processed in his name that he did not initiate. The complainant contacted all his credit companies in the state to change his information and needed a police report number for the companies. The complainant said he had not had any financial loss at the time of the report.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Europa Trail Way N. at 4:42 p.m. Aug. 11 reported fraud via LinkedIn.

• Vehicle tampering was reported at 4:53 p.m. Aug. 11 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. after the complainant noticed that the license plates on the suspect vehicle on scene didn’t match. After its occupants were done tampering with the complainant’s vehicle, their vehicle was seen heading into Anoka County. The complainant reported nothing stolen or missing.

• A resident in the 14000 block of Mercantile Drive N. at 7:55 p.m. Aug. 11 reported a catalytic converter theft.

Deputies cited a motorist at 3:21 p.m. Aug. 12 in the 14000 block of Victor Hugo Blvd. N. following a traffic stop.

• Younger males reported for being at an unoccupied business in the 5000 block of 145th Street N. at 8:15 p.m. Aug. 12 turned out to just be using a ramp to load a motorcycle.

Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop at 6:22 p.m. Aug. 13 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N. and issued a citation.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Hadley Circle N. reported discovering a possible bullet hole in one of her windows at 10:53 a.m. Aug. 14, after hearing a loud bang the week before. After deputies inspected the hole that did not penetrate both windowpanes, they concluded a BB pellet likely caused the damage.

• A resident in the 4000 block of Empress Way N. at 1:49 p.m. Aug. 14 reported identity theft, after her Instagram account was hacked.

• A motorist was cited at 6:00 p.m. Aug. 14 on 170th Street and Henna Avenue N. for speeding 64 mph in a 55 mph zone, after deputies on patrol clocked the vehicle on radar at 70 mph.

• An unidentified male was arrested at 8:33 p.m. Aug. 14 on Elmcrest Avenue N. and Rosemary Way N. following a traffic stop.

• Extra patrol was requested after a resident in the 16000 block of Europa Avenue N. reported juveniles ding-dong-ditching at 10:58 p.m. Aug. 14, as part of an ongoing issue.

• A motorist was cited at 3:28 a.m. Aug. 15 near the intersection of Frenchman Road and Oneka Parkway for driving after revocation and failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for no license plate light and an inoperable brake light.

• A resident in the 6000 block of 138th Court N. at 8:10 p.m. Aug. 15 reported finding a wallet in Ramsey County and asked deputies to take custody of it.

Deputies

advised

the reporter to return the wallet to Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies, because the wallet had been found in their jurisdiction.

• Juveniles were reported for loitering around a vacant house for sale in the 4000 block of 162nd Street N. at 4:15 p.m. Aug. 13. Several hours later, at 6:58 p.m., an intoxicated male near Oneka Parkway N. and 159th Street N. reported that he and some juveniles had been arguing. Deputies advised the juveniles to keep their distance from the male and not to engage with him. A juvenile complaint lodged in the 6000 block of 151st Street N. at 6:48 p.m. Aug. 16 turned out to be a parenting issue, after deputies spoke with all parties involved. Another juvenile complaint was registered at 7:50 p.m. Aug. 16 in the 15000 block of Goodview Avenue N. regarding juveniles trespassing in the construction area. Deputies met with those juveniles and contacted their parents to advise them. Juveniles were reported for hitting golf balls and riding a gocart in the grass at the park in the 12000 block of Exhall Avenue N. at 4:25 p.m. Aug. 21. Young children were reported at 5:31 p.m. Aug. 21 for riding bikes in the roadway in the 14000 block of Arbre Lane N. Deputies located the youths and spoke to their parents. When deputies spoke to the kids, they advised them to stay on sidewalks to avoid being hit by a vehicle. With the start of the school year not far off, the youths of Hugo may become otherwise occupied.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 8:51 a.m. Aug. 17 on Egg Lake Road N. and Geneva Avenue N. for displaying registration tabs that expired in April, after deputies pulled the vehicle over for speeding. The driver said he knew the registration had expired.

• Internet crimes were reported at 6:01 p.m. Aug. 17 in the 15000 block of Forest Blvd. N.

• Loud ATV’s were reported at 6:35 p.m. Aug. 17 near 150th Street N. and Goodview Avenue N. An unidentified woman was arrested for DWI at 3:37 a.m. Aug. 18 in the 15000 block of Farnham Avenue N., after deputies were dispatched out to a disturbance at the address. According to the report, the subject was intoxicated in public and causing problems. As deputies arrived on scene, they observed the woman in question driving away. During the inevitable traffic stop, deputies determined the driver was intoxicated.

• Following an ATV complaint at 7:20 p.m. Aug. 18 in the 6000 block of 150th Street N., deputies dispatched out to the scene made contact with individuals on Glenbrook Avenue loading up their ATV’s. When deputies advised them of the city ordinance about use of ATV’s, they denied any involvement.

• An unknown driver was arrested for DUI at 9:59 p.m. Aug. 18 in the 9000 block of 170th Street N., following a traffic stop for speeding and failure to dim headlights.

• A burglary was reported overnight Aug. 18-19 in the 16000 block of Forest Blvd. N., after it was discovered that various tools and equipment had been stolen.

Loretta Harding

RECYCLE

If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet.

Upcoming events

Getting Unstuck: Bringing Joy and Vitality Back to Your Art Practice

Tuesdays, October 3-24, 12:30-2:00 PM

Augmented Reality Exhibit Celebrates Dakota Culture

If you’re feeling stuck in your creative energy because you’re feeling overwhelmed by un nished works, this class will help to tackle that blockage. ink of it as an open studio with additional support and accountability.

Criticism as Dialogue

Tuesday, September 26, 5:30-8:30 p.m. is one-day workshop will give WBCA members an opportunity to have an open dialogue with fellow artists on how to engage in constructive criticism and handle complexity.

The Laramie Project

October 5 & 6 at 7:00 PM; October 7 at 2 p.m.

Northern Starz Center for the Performing Arts is proud to bring e Laramie Project to White Bear Center for the Arts. is

If you’ve stopped by White Bear Center for the Arts’ OSilas Labyrinth lately, you may have noticed a new sign. It marks the labyrinth as a spot where you can experience an augmented reality exhibit. And if you scan a QR code, you’ll see a digitally-rendered tipi, “Bear’s Lodge,” appear to ll the space. e audio coming from your phone welcomes you in, and gives you a brief introduction to Mahto the bear, who is the teacher of medicine in Dakota culture. e tipi and the artwork appear to be part of the very landscape itself. Marlena Myles (Spirit Lake Dakota/ Mohegan/Muscogee), the artist behind the Augmented Reality Experience, is a selftaught digital artist located in

St. Paul, Minnesota. You may recognize her artwork from WBCA’s fall catalog covers, and many art organizations around Minnesota including the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Museum of Russian Art, Red Cloud Heritage Center and the Minnesota Museum of American Art.

Marlena’s Augmented Reality Experience can be found at various points around WBCA’s outdoor campus. e exhibit asks visitors to consider the natural world around them, and o ers a chance to connect to Dakota culture in a new and innovative way. All are welcome to experience this augmented reality for themselves; the exhibit is free, and “open” during WBCA’s business hours.

WBCA Welcomes a New Leader

White Bear Center for the Arts recently welcomed Chris Scholl as its new executive director, starting a new chapter in the art center’s 55year history. Scholl, a devoted arts administrator, began his career in an art studio. He spent years working as an artist, constructing sets and working in theaters, and eventually achieved an MFA in Scenic Design from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. A er moving into administration, he received an MBA from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. He has spent his career helping arts institutions, like the Jungle eater and Ashland Productions, grow their impact upon their stakeholders and communities.

Scholl was drawn to White Bear Center for the Arts as a nancially strong institution

with a long history and a deep reservoir a ection among its students,

volunteers, and donors. “ e chance to be a part of a vibrant art center that commits to teaching a wide variety of mediums for all abilities, and honors the talents of professional artists and community members through beautiful gallery exhibitions, is a unique opportunity,” Scholl said. “I’m excited to explore the many ways that White Bear Center for the Arts can continue to build our artsloving community in this area and beyond.”

is fall, Scholl is looking forward to the abundance and

variety of programs o ered at the art center. “One of the things that drew me to WBCA is our embrace of the entirety of the arts,” he said. “Simply paging through the fall catalog makes that clear, with classes o ered in clay, ber, drawing, painting, writing, wellness and more.” Scholl also mentioned the National Endowment for the Arts’ Big Read program as another focal point of this fall season. “ at partnership has allowed us the means to draw our community together to investigate the words and intentions within Ross Gay’s gorgeous book of poetry, Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude.” ere’s a lot for community members, and for Scholl, to dive into at the start of this new chapter. As Scholl said, “Poetry, digital art, studio art: that’s only what you’ll nd here today. Art is exploration, and we have galaxies of worlds to explore together.”

White Bear Center for the Arts

White Bear Center for the Arts Chris Scholl

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Debt management plan: Pros and cons

Cons

A debt management plan (DMP) is a strategic effort to eliminate unsecured debt such as credit cards and medical bills.

A DMP is a way to pay off highinterest unsecured debt – mostly credit cards – without having to take out a bank loan. DMPs reduce the interest rate on credit cards to around 8% and make monthly payments affordable, so consumers can pay off debt in three to five years.

The plans are offered by nonprofit credit counseling agencies, who do a detailed analysis of your income and expenses to create a household budget that includes a fixed monthly payment tailored to what you can afford. The plan is presented to credit card companies, who must approve the plan.

Those who enroll make monthly deposits with a credit counseling organization, which uses that money to pay the debts according to a predetermined payment schedule developed by the counselor and your creditors. Your monthly payment is tailored to what you can afford.

Once approved, a debt management plan simplifies the payment process for consumers who use 3-4 credit cards with 3-4 deadlines and 3-4 minimum payments to remember each month.

One payment to one source, once a month – and no loan – is how a debt management plan makes managing your money easier.

TIPS

Pros

• Offers credit card consolidation without a loan, meaning you don’t need to take on more debt to pay off your existing debt.

• It will help you stay more organized and punctual with your bills and payments.

• It creates a realistic monthly budget with a financial goal that can get you out of debt within

three to five years.

• Making regular and timely payments can improve your credit report and credit score over time.

• If you’ve been delinquent about paying bills, a DMP can bring your credit accounts to current status, called “re-aging.” That, too, can help your credit score, though your credit report likely will still contain the information

about past late payments and delinquencies.

• It will save you from late fees that make matters worse for your finances.

• Creditors or debt collectors will stop calling.

• You’ll be given advice about your finances from a professional

• You’ll be required to close your credit card accounts to avoid taking on even more debt.

• You won’t be allowed access to new lines of credit such as an auto loan or a loan to remodel your home.

• You must commit to making the single monthly payment consistently.

Some of your creditors may not approve the plan, meaning you’ll be obligated to pay them separately from the monthly DMP payment.

• The credit counseling agency might charge a small enrollment fee and/or monthly maintenance fee, though some of those can be waived.

If you have a steady income that you can use to pay off your unsecured debt at a lower interest rate than you’re currently paying, and if you can survive without needing new lines of credit over the length of the plan, then a debt management plan might work for you.

The statistics show that a DMP isn’t a sure thing for everybody. Pre-pandemic, credit counseling agencies nationally were recommending DMPs to about half of the people who came to them for help with their debt, but that number has dropped during the pandemic.

Debt.org

When to expect fall colors and where to enjoy them

Fall colors in Minnesota typically peak in midto-late-September through mid-October, starting in the northernmost part of the state and working southward. Peak fall color usually lasts two weeks but can vary widely depending on location and weather.

Many factors play into the timing and brilliance of the fall color season in Minnesota, such as day length, temperatures and rainfall. Weather impacts fall colors both before and during the fall season.

“Brilliant fall color occurs when late summer and early fall days are sunny, nights are chilly and there is adequate rainfall throughout the growing season,” said Brian Schwingle, Minnesota DNR forest health specialist.

Leaves change color mainly in response to the decrease of daily sunlight. Photosynthesis, or the production of sugars that depend on sunlight, begins to slow down in response to shortening days. This leads to a reduction of chlorophyll, the pigment that supports photosynthesis and gives leaves their green color. When chlorophyll is reduced, other color pigments in the leaves begin to show, like yellow and red.

Patterns of temperature, precipitation and wind, and the timing of hard freezes can impact when fall colors peak and how long they last. While a light frost might intensify colors, a hard freeze can cause trees to drop leaves early. Rain and wind can shorten the peak color period. These weather phenomena can only be predicted a week or so in advance, making a peak color forecast difficult.

Minnesota is in its third summer with drought conditions in at least part of the state. Though severe

summer drought may lessen the intensity of fall colors, there has been no correlation to the timing of peak fall colors and drought.

“Temperatures in September have played a bigger role than drought in determining when peak colors form,” Schwingle said. “When September minimum temperatures are cooler than average, like we had in

2020, fall colors have been earlier.”

The Minnesota DNR’s Fall Color Finder (mndnr. gov/fallcolors) is a way for the public to follow the annual progression of fall color change throughout the state. Minnesota DNR staff throughout the state share reports from their location each Wednesday, in time for people to make travel plans for the coming weekend. The webpage includes a color-coded map that shows the approximate percentage of leaves that have changed color across the state and a slideshow of recent photos taken by staff and visitors. The public is also welcome to submit their photos from visits to state parks, forests and trails, which might be included in online galleries, social media or newsletters.

“Fall is the perfect season to spend time outdoors, when nature puts on a beautiful show for all to see,” said Ann Pierce, Minnesota DNR Parks and Trails Division director. “From the north woods to the prairies to the lakeshores and everything in between, there are so many spots to view the stunning scenery that autumn in Minnesota brings. We invite everyone to follow along with our Fall Color Finder and get out to Minnesota state parks, trails and forests and other public lands this season.”

This week the Minnesota DNR launches its weekly fall color update newsletter with trip planning resources. From scenic drives to hiking, biking, paddling, birding, picnicking and more, the Minnesota DNR offers itineraries and tips to encourage Minnesotans to get out and enjoy the changing leaves.

Department of Natural Resources

MINNESOTA DNR CONTRIBUTED

To celebrate Minnesota’s most colorful season, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is sharing a fall color forecast, the typical timing of peak colors, ways for Minnesotans to find where colors are at their peak each week, and suggestions for where to visit to see fall colors.

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men. In 2022, the American Cancer Society estimated there would be about 268,490 new cases and about 34,500 deaths from prostate cancer. The American Urological Association suggests men ages 55 to 69, with an average risk for prostate cancer, talk to their doctor about whether prostate cancer testing is right for them. For men with a higher risk of getting prostate cancer, which includes African-American men or men with a family history of cancer, think about talking to your doctor as early as 40-54 years of age.

The prostate and seminal vesicles are part of the male reproductive system. The prostate sits below the bladder, in front of the rectum, while the seminal vesicles are two smaller glands attached to the back of the prostate. The main job of the prostate and seminal vesicles is to make fluid for semen. Prostate cancer develops when abnormal cells form and grow in the prostate gland. Not all abnormal growths, also called tumors, are cancerous (malignant). Some tumors are not cancerous (benign), such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and are not life threatening. Cancerous growths, such as prostate cancer, can

spread (metastasize) to nearby organs and tissues such as the bladder or rectum, or to other parts of the body.

Prostate cancer stays “localized” when cancer cells are found only in the prostate or even a little bit beyond it, but do not move to other parts of the body. If the cancer moves to other parts of the body, it is called “advanced” prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is often grouped into four stages.

Early-stage | Stages I & II: The tumor has not spread beyond the prostate. This is often called “early-stage” or “localized” prostate cancer.

• Locally Advanced | Stage III: Cancer has spread outside the prostate, but

only to nearby tissues. This is often called “locally advanced prostate cancer.”

• Advanced | Stage IV: Cancer has spread outside the prostate to other parts such as the lymph nodes, bladder, bones, liver or lungs. This stage is often called “advanced prostate cancer.”

What Causes Prostate

Cancer?

The cause of prostate cancer is unknown, but researchers know many things can increase a man’s risk for the disease.

• Age: As men age, their risk of getting prostate cancer goes up.

Ethnicity: African American men have a higher rate of the disease. Prostate cancer occurs less often in Asian American and Hispanic/Latino men than in non-Hispanic white men. Family History: Men who have a history of prostate cancer in their family face a higher risk of getting the disease. Having family members with breast and ovarian cancer also raises a man’s risk for prostate cancer.

• Weight: Studies link being overweight in your 50s and later to a greater risk of advanced prostate cancer. Doctors advise keeping to a healthy weight to reduce risk.

What are the Signs of Prostate Cancer?

In its early stages, prostate cancer may have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can be urinary symptoms like those of an enlarged prostate or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). A prostate cancer screening assessment tool can be found on www.urologyhealth.org under Early-Stage Prostate Cancer Basics. This information was found on Urology Care Foundation: www. urologyhealth.org.

STEVE KING: City council member’s fulfills ‘life duty’ to be involved

FROM PAGE 1

the less fortunate, Statz said. His lone “nay” vote was especially evident when council was asked to approve a grant application — saying that the “free money” had been taken from the taxpayer in the first place.

As a council member expected to vote on requests, budgets and ordinances, King was diligent and finished his homework before each meeting. He read through and researched agenda packets that were often 100 to 200 pages long. He could be seen marching to his seat on the dais with several inches of paper under his arm.He had a strong work ethic, Donna said. He read the packets thoroughly, talked to people, phoned government agencies and searched the internet, she said. During meetings, questions flowed as a result of his poring through the packets. Sometimes, individuals pitching proposals before council were challenged to be equally prepared to defend their positions.

For his constituents, King was a strong advocate, often calling state and federal politicians and agencies directly to inquire about new laws and policies.

While representing the smalltown values of his constituents, King’s primary concerns included fiduciary responsibility and independence from overregulation by government at all levels.

“God blessed him with the ability to handle money,”

Donna said, relating one of her husband’spolitical highlights that did not involve Centerville. King was voted in as an alternate for Ron Paul at the 2012 Republican National Convention. One of the delegates couldn’t attend, and King, who didn’t want to fly all the way out to the convention due to the cost, did so anyway with Donna’s encouragement, and stepped in to vote. In the end, he was glad he went, Donna said, but had hesitated with a refrain familiar to many: “I don’t know if we have the money.”

One of King’s pet peeves was noise, Donna said, and he was instrumental in making public events more tolerable for those who lived near the center of all the action. King worked at length to get the noise toned down during the annual Fete des Lacs. His motto was, “Compromise is not an option,” Donna said.

Another of King’s main concerns had always been individual rights of the people. “Just leave people alone,” he would say.

Today, King’s impact on council meetings becomes evident within seconds after the gavel pounds, and the mayor calls the meeting to order. It is thanks to Steve and Donna King that the city began each meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, starting with King’s first meeting on Jan. 12, 2011.

During his political career, King never lost an election. Donna noted that he didn’t campaign, but said instead, “They know who I am; if they like me, they’ll vote for me.”

“Steve felt he had a duty to be involved if something wasn’t right. It was his duty in life,” Donna said. “There were policies he wasn’t happy with, and he did something about it by filing for

candidacy. He got his name on the ballot and got in.” King filed for office three times in 12 years and was elected all three times.

At the December 2018 council meeting — when King retired for the first time — he said he “ran for council eight years ago because I was mad about something going on, and Donna finally told me to shut up or run for council — plus a few other words in there.”

At a recent meeting, City Attorney Kurt Glaser said he first met King as a young city attorney when King attended the meetings. “He was really annoyed with the city and decided to join council,” he said.

Glaser wanted to know a little more about the man who was “so mad at us,” so he went to get a haircut from King. “I had a good

Centerville their home.

After a four-year tour with the U.S. Air Force, King stayed busy running different businesses throughout his life. After he and Donna started out in Centerville, he started a chimney sweep business. Any time he would have to take a professional qualification test regarding things like repair and relining, he would pass with flying colors, because he studied and did his research, Donna said.

King was hardworking and was never a job snob. He also worked as a school bus driver and a barber. King would accept chimney sweep work while also working at the rendering plant in New Brighton, Donna said.

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Donna added that her husband was deliberate at whatever he did, thinking everything through before he jumped in. She said that he always told her, “You gotta be careful about what you say when you’re running a business.”

conversation with him, and that kind of solved everything. It has been nice to have him,” Glaser said.

While on council, King served a liaison to the Parks and Recreation Committee. He also represented council on the Centennial Fire District Steering Committee, North Metro Telecommunications Commission, Anoka County Fire Protection Council and Economic Development Authority. He also eventually moved up the council hierarchy to serve as alternate acting mayor.

Steve and Donna King’s 50-year relationship was spent entirely in Centerville, after they met at the bar and pool hall next door to her home on Centerville Road. As a girl growing up in Centerville, she had learned to shoot pool and would go to the bar to practice.

“I was never as good as Steve — he was on the men’s pool team.”

They shot pool together, and he invited her to play a game for beer. He beat her and won the beer, while she got better and joined the women’s team. They married not long after that; the couple continued to make

When her husband retired from council in 2018, he told Donna he didn’t want a lot of accolades, feeling it had been his duty, Donna said. But she attended that last meeting anyway, and heaped on the accolades. She knew that King loved it when she thanked him and when individuals thanked him.

“Steve was humbled and embarrassed to receive a lot of public attention,” Donna said. “But he deserved the attention, after how hard he worked and all the phone calls he had, and that’s why I wanted to give him attention.”

As he retired from council in 2018, King said he’d learned a tremendous amount about how council worked and thanked the citizens who voted for him and those who didn’t. “Maybe if I get mad again, I’ll run again in two years,” he said at the time.

He must have gotten mad, because he ran again in less than two years. He filed again in August 2020 and was reelected. He started his third four-year term in January 2021. Once again, he didn’t campaign, saying, “They know who I am; if they like me, they’ll vote for me.”

They did, they did and they did.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer with Press Publications. She can be reached by emailing news@presspubs.com or calling 651-319-1110.

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Former Mayor Jeff Paar recognizes council memeber Steve King for his many years of service to the city when he retired in 2018.

‘Steve felt he had a duty to be involved if something wasn’t right. It was his duty in life.’

Donna King

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CENTERVILLE BUDGET: General fund levy proposed to increase by 4%

adjustment is to allow additional flexibility in negotiations with the other members of the joint powers agreement regarding the funding formula, he noted.

The second change is a significant increase in estimated interest earnings, he said. “Staff has analyzed our average cash balance in light of the higher current interest rates. With the changes we see, we have projected an additional $50,000 (in revenues) for 2024,” DeJong said.

The estimated preliminary budget as originally presented — before council added $25,000 to it — showed an increase

of slightly more than $347,000 in general fund expenditures. The vast majority of anticipated increases are due to public safety costs. A $160,000 increase is from a proposed Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) change in the funding formula and increasing expenditures. There is also a $58,000 in increased Centennial Fire District costs. This $218,000 cost increase will be partially offset by a one-time state public safety grant of $171,000, DeJong said.

General fund budget stood at $3.3 million and the general fund levy at $2.7 million. The total debt levy was $308,338,

and the total proposed tax levy was $3,007,321.

Before council added the $25,000 to the budget, the levy increase stood at 3%, the lowest increase in Anoka County, DeJong said.

The $25,000 addition to the budget would increase the 3% bump to 3.5%, and the 3.5% general fund tax levy increase would bump up to 4%, City Administrator Mark Statz said.

“This (addition of $25,000) allows us time to look at a potential discussion of using the water and sewer funds,” said Mayor D. Love. “We can have (the

discussion) at a future work session to see if this is where we want to go in December.”

The approved resolution also set the date for the public truth-in-taxation hearing at the regular City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer with Press Publications. She can be reached by emailing news@presspubs.com or calling 651-407-1200.

Renovations begin on Hopkins Schoolhouse

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Renovations continue on the former Hopkins Schoolhouse, located on the northwest corner of 170th Street N and Highway 61 in Hugo. A new nonprofit organization has formed with the mission of “Promoting community engagement and leadership by honoring the heritage of Hugo, Forest Lake, and the surrounding area; highlighting historic examples of citizens who made a difference in the community; and offering a place for community members to gather.”

The nonprofit is working to raise funds to continue renovating the old one-room schoolhouse into a restored schoolhouse and heritage center. Last week, a crew from Precise Exteriors LLC, owned by Doug and DJ Amundson of Hugo, replaced the schoolhouse roof. Precise Exteriors donated the labor and only charged for materials.

This week, Rusty Pastorius, owner of Sealant Technicians, and his son Zach Pastorius, both longtime residents of Hugo, are donating their services to repair the chimney.

“Reaching this milestone is very exciting — and is a visible demonstration of how community engagement and leadership makes a difference in getting things done,” said Hopkins Schoolhouse Committee President Liz Cinqueonce. “Fostering community engagement and leadership is a key part of the

mission of the new Hopkins Schoolhouse and Heritage Center — and we hope this inspires more community members to get involved.”

Also starting this week, Northern Bedrock Historic Preservation Corps, a nonprofit organization from Duluth, will work on repairing the soffit. Following the restoration of the roof, chimney and soffit, Cinqueonce said the focus will turn to raising the

funds needed to complete the second phase of the restoration, which will include the windows and siding.

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

CONTRIBUTED

A new roof is being installed, and soon repairs will begin on the chimney and soffit.

SHANNON GRANHOLM PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Work is underway at the Hopkins Schoolhouse.

LITTLE HOT HANDS: Chef Hot Hands lives on through wife’s business

that Brialee loves to cook and also enjoys hot things, just like her dad did.

Customers may not know that Esmerelda was very involved in the Chef Hot Hands operation. She did a little bit of everything, including decorating the restaurant space and shopping for ingredients, and often served as a taste tester for Larry.

“I was always in the kitchen watching him. He would move so fast,” Esmerelda recalled. “We would laugh and fight. It was everything in there. It was really fun. I miss that time.” She says she learned a lot from Larry.

After Larry’s death, Esmerelda says she lost herself for a while. She was working at Culver’s in Stillwater, but that wasn’t cutting it. The bills were piling up.

“I thought, ‘How am I going to do this? ... This is too much for me,” she said. “I had to do something.”

So, to support her family and continue her husband’s dream, she bought a little pink trailer and started making and selling mini donuts and churros. Her menu has continued to evolve, and she now is known for tamales, walking tacos, fajita

hot dogs, waffles and Elotes (Mexican street corn, mayonnaise and cheese). Esmerelda has been overwhelmed by the support of former Chef Hot Hands customers and the community at large. She attends the Stillwater Farmers Market every Saturday, and continues to visit Applecrest Orchards and T & Nae Flower Farm, both of which are located on Elmcrest Avenue N. on the border of Hugo and Lino Lakes. She is also dabbling in catering.

“I can see the love. The support means a lot to me, and people make me smile after everything,” she said. “When I’m there, I forget about everything.”

Larry’s dream was always to have a little restaurant in his name. Now, Esmerelda says that is her dream, too. She hopes to one day have her own restaurant called “Little Hot Hands.”

“I’m happy with how far I’ve come with this, but sometimes you cry and think this was something Larry would have loved,” she said. “Sometimes it is hard to keep going, but I know he would say, ‘I’m so proud of you.’”

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.

2-3.

a desire in him to send care packages as his Eagle Scout Project. Viker raised $1,600 and he and his fellow Scouts went shopping for typical care package wish list items. Then they gathered and packed all the items and shipped them to Minnesota National Guard Soldiers

6.

— Contributed

7-8.

1. The Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network was recognized at the Minnesota State Fair on Military Appreciation Day for “outstanding support” of soldiers and their families. — Christina Oxtra, contributed

Several years ago, Hugo youngster Ean Viker was a young Cub Scout who volunteered with his Cub Scouts to help the Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network pack and ship care packages to deployed military. Fast-forward to this summer, and those early memories of helping with care packages evoked

deployed to the Southern Border Mission. — Chuck Haas, contributed

4. White Bear Lake resident Corinna Morse captured this photo of a sunrise at Surfside Seaplane Base in Lino Lakes. — Corinna Morse, contributed

5.There have recently been quite a few black bear sightings in Hugo. This photo was snapped near — Applecrest Orchards, contributed

Cub Scout Pack 432 and BSA Troop 136, along with the Anoka County Historical Society, recently completed the installation of a new exhibit at Centerville City Hall titled, “A Scouting Narrative.”

The second annual Kourageous Karter Fun Run was held at Lions Volunteer Park in Hugo. The event raised over $20,000 for the nonprofit organization, which will provide a scholarship for one child to receive Trexo Robotics Gait Trainer or, more simply, “robot legs.” —Tiffany Goodchild, contributed

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Little Hot Hands' menu offers: tamales, walking tacos, fajita hot dogs, waffles and Elotes (Mexican street corn, mayonnaise and cheese).

“I can see the love. The support means a lot to me, and people make me smile after everything. ”

Esmerelda Jiles

Cougars battle back but fall to Crimson 41-28

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Down 20-0 after 15 minutes, against the defending state champion, on the road, Centennial appeared headed for a blowout loss.

Instead, the Cougars, coming off two lopsided wins, fought back admirably and took a 21-20 lead at Maple Grove, but the Crimson finished strong and handed them their first setback 41-28 Thursday evening.

“It was a tough start!  We were not ready to play, and that was my fault,” coach Mike Diggins reflected. “You cannot fall behind by 20 to a good team and expect to win.”

Maple Grove (2-1) was boosted by a rampaging tailback and a lucky bounce. Charles Langama, a 5-foot-9, 190-pound junior who runs hard and low, blasted for 234 yards and four touchdowns in 33 carries for defending Class 6A champions, who are fielding a largely new and young lineup this year.

“Their running back was

maybe the best we’ll play,” Diggins said, “but we need to improve on our tackling and pursuit of the football.”

After Maple Grove regained the lead at 26-21, their subsequent kickoff took a crazy hop over the Cougar returner and the Crimson pounced on the ball at the eight. Langama scored two plays later for a 33-21 lead.

Centennial still didn’t buckle.

Josh Lee and Ty Burgoon made great catches of Daylen Cummings passes for first downs and Marcus Whiting powered the last five yards to make it 3328. But Langama blasted 28 yards for his final TD and Dylan Vokol intercepted Cummings to seal the deal.

Cummings hit nine of 13 passes for 134 yards. Maverick Harper carried 20 times for 92 yards, Burgoon eight for 83, Cummings nine for 46 and Whiting three for 21. Lee caught five passes of 64 yards, Kellen Binder two for 31, Burgoon one for 31 and Brock Burgraff one for eight.

“There were a lot of positives,”

Diggins said. “We played good defense in the second and third quarters. We came back from being 20 points down, and our passing game was excellent. Our pass blocking was good and Daylen delivered the ball.”

Maple Grove took a quick 14-0 lead on Langema’s 27-yard run and Henry Stang’s 40-yard run, on their first and fourth offensive plays, each time after forcing a Cougar three-and-out. Bo Draheim caught an 11-yard TD toss from Kaden Harney, making it 20-0. The Cougars blocked the point-after. Then the Cougars got going. Cummings hit Binder for a 35yard gain and capped the drive with a 17-yard sprint to the end zone. The Cougars forced Maple Grove’s first punt of the game, then rumbled 80 yards, capped by a nine-yard TD burst by Whiting, their defensive line standout who makes cameo appearances as a fullback. Harper ran for a twopoint conversion. It was 20-15 at the half.

To start the second half, Ayden

Bear girls kick up 4 wins in 6 days

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake pumped in 20 goals, nine of them by Jenna Maloy, in posting four girls soccer wins last week.

The No. 8 ranked Bears are 6-2-2 overall and 3-0 in the Suburban East after dispatching Mounds

View 3-0, Roseville Area 7-1, Champlin Park 4-0 and HillMurray 6-1.

“The team is playing elite defense right now, so we just need to continue to finish on the offensive end better,” coach Dave Ashley remarked after the Mounds View game. The offense did

indeed ramp up for the rest of the week.

Maloy had four- and three-goal games, and

Becca Smith made seven assists while notching two goals.

Kelsey Wolfe and Alivia Farrell each had two goals at Roseville.

Sadowski intercepted a pass and the Cougars marched 60 yards for another TD, a three-yard burst by Cummings. A twopoint pass attempt failed but the Cougars had the lead.

Maple Grove, which lost to Champlin Park 25-24 a week earlier after leading 17-0,

resolved not to let another one slip away. "We've got a long way to go, but tonight was a good win over a good Centennial team,” Crimson coach Matt Lombardi said.

Bears start strong at Woodbury but fall 38-16

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake generated some firepower Friday night, enough to take a 16-7 lead in the third quarter at Woodbury. However, the Royals dominated the last quarter and a half to win 38-16, dropping the Bears to 0-3.

The Bears, after two anemic offensive performances, got 212 passing yards at Woodbury, including two touchdowns — from Alex Doroff to Isaac Kibagendi from 24 yards on a screen pass, and to a wide-open Vinny Villella from 33 yards on a perfect downfield strike.

Woodbury (2-1) turned it around with three straight TD gallops. ..

“Played well for a while. Gotta finish,” Bear coach Ryan Bartlett said. Devin Mueller made several big plays for the Bears. The 6-foot-3 senior snagged a 31-yard pass from Doroff over the shoulder that set up

Ben Watson’s 17-yard field goal, took a short pass and dashed 49 yards, blasted a 49-yard punt from the back of the end zone, ran eight yards out of punt formation for a first down, and made a pair of tackles for loss.

Doroff finished 10-for-26 for 199 yards with one interception. He left with a neck injury, not believed to be serious. Heidi Barber finished and had a tough time with two interceptions and a fumble, completing one pass. Mueller made the two catches for 80 yards, Kibagendi four for 45, Villella three for 39, Kesean Lipscomb two for 48, and Dom Anderson one for 20. The Bears managed just 37 yards on 16 rushes. Defensively, Kibagendi intercepted a long pass at the one-yard line, Aiden Akins made three tacklesfor-loss totaling 14 yards, and Ty Behnken notched a fumble recovery and two tackles for loss.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Julia Zalewski

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Brol Scherman

Cross Country

Centennial Lacrosse

Julia Zalewski is a two-year co-captain on the strong Centennial girls cross country team and has made allconference as a sophomore and junior. Zalewski is the Cougars’ No. 4 runner and is counted upon for veteran leadership during the season and in the summer workouts. This season, she has placed 12th in a five-team Duluth meet, 22nd in an 11-team Maple Grove meet and 20th in a 12-team Lakeville meet, helping her team finish third against strong competition in each. Last year, she placed 13th in the conference, 20th in the section and 53rd of 160 at state.

Brol Scherman, Centennial junior lacrosse standout, has netted 22 goals and provided seven assists for the Cougars (4-2) while notching 17 ground balls (a change of possession statistic). Scherman was all-conference as a sophomore with 36 goals and 28 assists. The recruiting website ILMCA said of him: “Endto-end playmaking machine with striking confidence both on and off the field. Versatile offensive threat with strong outside shooting and crease finishing skills. Magnetic team leader and positive influencer.”

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JON NAMYST | CONTRIBUTED

The Cougars were chasing Maple Grove’s Charles Langama all game. Owen Ringen (16) and Timmy Ball (47) caught Langama on this play but he racked up 234 yards and four touchdowns.

Devin Mueller turned a short pass into a 49-yard gain in the third period.

Teagan Coopet, Elyse Oelker, Madeline Thompson and  Abby

O’Brien had a goal each in the week. Autumn Maki was in goal for both shutouts, logging six saves in each.

BRUCE STRAND

Alivia Farrell of the Bears got this shot past Roseville goalie Aliyah Witte just 16 seconds into the game. The Bears won 7-1.