The Citizen

Annual bus tour aims to ‘start of a lot of conversations’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

HUGO — For the first time in 19 years, the city’s bus tour looked a bit different because the bus never left its first stop, Oneka Elementary School, due to some mechanical problems. City staff are trying to reschedule the event for Saturday, Oct. 25.

Each year, elected officials, commission mem-

bers, residents and city staff take a look at what happened during the year, and what’s slated for next year. Participants often use the tour to come up with goals the council and various commissions want to accomplish in the future.

“The goal has been to have a tour of the city that happens every year. It’s important. We put a lot of importance on showcasing what hap-

pens in the city, and we try to show good things that are happening, we try to show the bad things that are happening,” explained City Administrator Bryan Bear. “Some things just don’t go the way we want. There are certain things where people just have varying opinions; some people think something that happened is great, some people think the opposite.”

Mayor Tom Weidt added, “The (tour) has been very good source for us and the council and the commissions to actually see what happens in reality compared to the drawing that we see when we approve it. We learn a lot of things on it, and it’s really amazing to see how the town is growing year after year after year.”

Inside Minnesota’s new motorcycle law

BY ERIK SUCHY CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Minnesota motorcyclists, rejoice! A new law allows motorcycle lane splitting and lane filtering on roads and highways.

Under the terms of the law, lane splitting is allowed when two or more lanes of traffic are traveling in the same direction and traffic is moving. Specifically, it permits a motorcyclist to pass another vehicle traveling in the same direction and in the same traffic lane, provided the motorcyclist is traveling at no more than 25 miles per hour and no more than 15 miles per hour over the speed of traffic in the relevant lanes. Lane filtering, on the other hand, is allowed when two or more lanes of traffic are traveling in the same direction and traffic is not moving. This allows motorcyclists to move through stopped traffic, including at traffic lights or in congestion, provided they are traveling no more than 15 miles per hour over the speed of traffic in the relevant lanes.

While the law as a whole is new to Minnesota, Ramsey County Deputy Sheriff Erik Odmark said it is not new to the country. “California and Arizona have been doing this for a very long time, and it is just making its way to Minnesota. It’s going to be on the states to get advertisements and notifications out there that while this is legal now, it’s only legal under certain conditions. It’s going to be imperative that they emphasize the 25-mile-an-hour speed limit and make sure this isn’t going to end up being a speed limit-free free-for-all.”

“These maneuvers may not be performed on roads with varying lane configurations like work

Orchid continues winning streak in ‘Best of the Press’ contest

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

One business continues to rise to the top of the ballot in not only the White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press “Best of the Press” contest, but the contests in other markets, including the Shoreview Press and The Citizen.

The annual Best of the Press Readers’ Choice contest, which kicked off in 2020, allows community members to vote for a wide variety of their favorites, includ-

ing restaurants, doctors, schools, artists, services, events and much more.

Companywide, business nominations had its biggest growth year in 2025, increasing by 63% from 28,169 to 46,094 nominations. Since the contest’s launch, votes have more than doubled from 150,399 to 409,238.

Orchid Restaurant, located at 1190 County Road J in White Bear Township, has been nominated

every year in the contest and has achieved the rank of “the best” in various categories throughout the years.

This year, Orchid won Best Pho Soup in the White Bear Press; Best Chow Mein, Best Fried Rice and Best Pho Soup in The Citizen contest; along with Best Fried Rice in both the Quad Community Press and Shoreview

Orchid Restaurant in White Bear Township was voted the best in several categories and Press Publications contests.

MOTORCYLE LAW: ‘Alters dynamics’

zones, on-ramps or roundabouts,” noted Lino Lakes Police Sgt. William Owens.

According to Owens, drivers should navigate carefully to avoid blocking a motorcyclist passing or riding on the lane marker that divides traffic lanes.

“State statute requires all drivers to exercise due care while operating a vehicle. Anyone who drives carelessly, disregarding the rights of others, may be guilty of a misdemeanor. It’s important for drivers to share the road and share the lane with motorcycles to prevent needless injuries.”

In determining whether a passing motorcyclist is violating the new law, whether through speeding or improper maneuvers, Officer B.J. Stepan of the Centennial Lakes Police Department said radar and keen observation are the two primary methods used to make a decision.

“With any traffic violation, we have to witness

the offense in order to take action against the proper citation. You get used to judging the speeds of vehicles, so the first thing we use is our visual observations based upon our experience, as well as using radar. If traffic is stopped, the radar will pick up the moving vehicle coming between those and we’ll be able to tell if they’re within that 15 miles an hour.”

Lino Lakes Police Chief Curt Boehme said the department’s patrol officers will be watchful for violations, particularly during morning and afternoon rush hours. “There are fewer two-lane roads in Lino Lakes compared to other communities, so we are not expecting this to be a significant problem.”

Sgt. Eric Gadbois of the White Bear Lake Police Department said the new law has altered the dynamics of who is held responsible in the event of a vehicular accident.

“Prior to this law, the motorcyclists would almost certainly be assigned

fault if an accident occurred. Now, if an accident were to occur, the standard procedure would be to investigate, determine intent and potentially assign fault if apparent. Many different factors would still come into play, such as the speed of those involved, reckless behaviors disregarding traffic control devices and proper lane usage rules.”

However, Gadbois added that he hopes the new law will lead to a decrease in motorcycle accidents overall. “The change in law was intended to reduce motorcycle accidents, specifically motorcyclists being rear-ended. However, law changes can often take time to become ‘the new norm’ and have motorists be on the lookout for motorcycles.”

Those interested in learning more about the new motorcycle law can do so at www.tinyurl. com/3chsxsc5.

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Scarecrow Crawl returns to The Rookery

The Scarecrow Crawl will return to Lino Lakes at the end of October. Scarecrows must be submitted for entry by 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24. Participants will decorate their scarecrow and place it along the path at The Rookery.

Rookery members and visitors will be able to walk down the path and vote for their favorite scarecrow until Friday, Oct. 31. The Rookery is located at 7690 Village Drive. For more information, or to register, visit linolakes.us.

POLITICAL BRIEFS

‘Mayor for a Day’ essay contest returns for 2025

Minnesota’s fourth, fifth and sixth graders are invited to participate in the 2025 Mayor for a Day Essay Contest hosted by the League of Minnesota Cities. Students can enter by answering the question: “What would you do if you were mayor for a day?” Contest winners will each receive $100, be recognized in “Minnesota Cities” magazine, and have their voices shared statewide.

The 2024 contest set a record with 830 submissions from across Minnesota — the most in the contest’s 13-year history.

“We are thrilled to see such enthusiasm from students across Minnesota,” League of Minnesota Cities President and West St. Paul Council Member Wendy Berry said. “Last year’s record number of essays shows how much young people care about their cities. This contest continues to spark creativity, civic pride and interest in local government.” Submissions can be sent via an online form, PDF email attachment, or by mail. Full contest details, including a guide on what it’s like to be a mayor in Minnesota, are available at lmc.org/ mayorforaday. Essays must be submitted by Friday, Dec. 12. Winners will be notified in January 2026.

Many Faces Immigration Series continues Oct. 28

Close to 150 people gathered on Sept. 23 for the first of a two-part series on “Understanding Immigration,” sponsored by Many Faces, a collaboration of 30 organizations working to create a community where everyone feels they belong. A video recording of that program, featuring Julia Decker from the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, and Prof. Chris Roberts from the University of Minnesota, is available to watch on the Many Faces website (manyfaceswblarea.org).

The second in the series will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, at Vadnais Heights Commons, located at 655 County Road F East. The program will be facilitated by Rev. Arthur Hancock, St. John in Wilderness, White Bear Lake, and will feature a panel of local experts. The panel will discuss many of the questions raised by attendees at the September session, presenting the opportunity to dig deeper into the complexities of our immigration system, to learn more about the experiences of immigrants, and to explore ways our community can help.

Confirmed panelists include John Choi, Ramsey County Attorney; Corleen Smith, Director of Immigration Services for the International Institute; Andew Hazzard, a reporter for Sahan Journal; and Daniel Calderon, an immigration attorney. For further information and to register, visit manyfaceswblarea.org.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

ONGOING EVENTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE FARMERS

When: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Fridays

Where: Clark Ave., between Second Street and Third Street

Details: A tradition since the 1970s, the farmers’ market features more than 50 vendors. Contact: whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8526

HUGO SENIOR CITIZENS PLAY ‘500’

When: 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Oct.16; 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

A Night of Laughter

When: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25

Where: American Legion Post 620, 5383 140th St., Hugo Details: Fundraising event for Hugo’s Hopkins Schoolhouse includes social hour, dinner, raffles, and comedy show by Charlie Stemig. Register online.

Contact: https://form.jotform.com/25200419213314

CRIBBAGE

When: 12:45 p.m. Oct. 20; and the 1st and 4th Monday of every month

Where: Rice Lake Centre, 6900 137th St. N., Hugo Details: Senior citizens from Hugo and surrounding area are invited to an afternoon of cribbage. Coffee and refreshments served. Contact: 651-429-4413

CURRENT EVENTS

RUN FOR THE APPLES

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18

Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard

Details: 5 mile run/walk and 1/3 mile kids fun run through the orchard trails supports scholarships for STRIVE program and White Bear ALC students to attend Century College. Registration information online. Contact: whitebearrotary.org

FALL FESTIVAL

When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18

Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St., Lino Lakes

Details: Free event for all ages with apple cider, fall crafts, pioneer games, nature play area and indoor displays. Contact: anokacountyparks.com

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24

Where: St. Geneveive Community Parish Center, 6995 Centerville Road.

Details: Donate blood from Oct. 20 through Nov. 16 to get a e-giftcard and a chance at a $5,000 prize. Visit rcblood.org/harvest for more details. Contact: www.redcrossblood.org

TRUNK OR TREAT

When: 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26

Where: New Life Church Lutheran, 6000 148th Street N, Hugo

Details: Families are invited to attend a trunk or treat which will include candy, prizes, grass maze, face paint, photo booth, bounce house, yard games, popcorn and apple cider. Attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable item to donate to Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf.

Contact: 651-429-1975

IMMIGRATION ISSUES PANEL

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28

Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 County Road F East

Details: Experts from diverse backgrounds offer perspectives on immigration, current issues, and local implications. Register online. Contact: manyfaceswblarea.org

Hugo Fire Department hosts annual open house

CHURCH DIRECTORY

The Hugo Fire Department hosted its annual open house Saturday, Oct. 4. The event, which coincided with Fire Prevention Week, featured a bounce house, demonstrations, fire engine rides and more.

Support local newspapers

TPublisher’s View

wice a year we look to our readers to support the paper with a subscription. Many of you have asked why you would purchase a subscription when you can receive the paper for free? The simple answer is that producing the highest quality local news and information every week isn’t free, it’s a major investment and we need your support. With massive postal rate increases in the past years and fewer than 15% of our readers supporting this paper with a voluntary subscription, we rely heavily on the support of our advertising partners to keep the paper available to everyone. Most small town weekly papers have a 100% paid subscription in addition to advertising support. For us to continue to provide the information you rely on and enjoy in this paper, we need hit at least a 30% subscription rate goal. We need your support today with a subscription.

I can see how people think that news is free. I receive alerts and pop-ups of news clips online from all sorts of apps and organizations. Most of this information is designed to lure us in or entice us to click to their site. These days, much of the information that looks like fresh content is aggregated from other news sources with the use of Artificial Intelligence. More than ever, large media institutions are relying on AI and aggregating their content; that is, collecting content that was written by other journalists, including us. If every news organization moved toward this AI model of aggregating the news, who would be left to create the content? We are focused on producing local news and fresh content. Each week our team of writers, editors and reporters cover stories first-hand by attending city council meetings, planning meetings and school board meetings. Our journalists are often the only ones left in the room at late night meetings, condensing three to four hours of information and reporting on it in a few paragraphs to save you the time and effort of going to a meeting. Every story in our paper takes a considerable amount of energy to produce. There are interviews, follow-up calls, and photos, followed by the task of writing it in a way that is easy for the reader to digest. Then layout, proofing and editing it before it gets sent to be printed and finally distributed to your home. We do all of this while focused on adhering to the highest industry standards and ethics for accurate accounts of what happen, we follow Society of Professional Journalism standards.

If you have read even one story in the past year that informed you, entertained you, helped you make a decision, or helped you to know when a topic was brewing that could be important, I am personally asking for you to become a subscriber. A subscription form is included in this issue. Please take a few minutes to fill it out, or subscribe online at www.presspubs.com/site/services. A one-year subscription is only $35 - that isn’t even $1 per week. When you subscribe, you also receive unlimited access to our digital content, our new regional e-newsletter and access to our e-edition.

Please support the most important local news organization covering your community. Thank you.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

Scan QR to subscribe.

Thank you for your support!

Hopkins Schoolhouse:

‘There’s

been a lot of progress’

IMovers & Shakers

Craig Moen

f you have driven past the Hopkins Schoolhouse lately, you’ve seen there has been a lot of progress. The chimney was repaired, the roof patched and reshingled. The windows, siding, front steps, and front door have been replaced. The grounds around the schoolhouse have been cleared and cleaned. The first objective to seal the building from the weather and critters has been accomplished. This was possible only because of the volunteer help and the generous donations from individuals, civic organizations and local businesses.

The schoolhouse was built in 1928 on the site of the original “normal school” which was moved nearby and remodeled into a family residence. The Hopkins School was to serve the children of Hugo with grades 1-8 taught there until the 1940s. From then until it closed it served grades 1-6. It is speculated that the school got its name because of the several Hopkins families that lived in the area. Originally district 73, it became part of Forest Lake School District 831 when Washington County reor-

• 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 $50 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

ganized its school districts.

The 1961-62 school year was the last time it was used as a classroom.

In 1965 the school was purchased by Oneka Township from the Forest Lake school district and used as the Township Hall until the Township merged with the Village of Hugo in 1972.

The school then became the property of the City of Hugo. It was briefly used as a youth center and as a meeting place for the Hugo Boy Scouts. The building has been vacant since the early 2000s.

In 2022 the Hugo City Council called for a community group to develop a plan for renovation or the building would be torn down. A committee made up of members from the Hugo Historical Commission, the Forest Lake Historical Society and concerned community members was formed and became the Board of Directors for the Hopkins Schoolhouse and Heritage Center. This group devised a plan and submitted a written proposal to the Council which was approved and granted a lease for the building in May of 2023.

The restoration of the Schoolhouse is still a long way from being completed. Now we turn our attention to the inside. Accessibility, water, sewer, and electrical, all must be brought up to code. The bathrooms need new fixtures; the floor and ceiling need to be resurfaced and the walls need new sheet-

rock and paint. This also happens to be the most expensive part of the renovation and that is why the Oct. 25 second annual fund raiser event is so important.

The Board of Directors for the Hopkins Schoolhouse and Heritage Center have planned a fun filled evening with food, entertainment, raffles and good company all for just $25.00.

The event will be at the American Legion in Hugo and it begins at 5:30 p.m. with a social hour when raffle tickets will be sold for the many great prizes from local merchants.

Featured again will be the “Wall of Wine” where you can buy a chance for sometimes rare and unique spirits. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. From 7 to 8 p.m. there will be a comedy show featuring Charlie Stenig and Friends of Just Laugh Minnesota will be featured. After the show a community update will be given along with the raffle drawings and conclude with more social hour.

Please join us at the Legion on Oct. 25 for an evening of fun and food and help support the Hopkins Schoolhouse and Heritage Center. For more information, or to register, visit https://hopkinsschoolhouse.org/#upcoming-events.

Criag Moen is one of the founding members and currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Schoolhouse and Heritage Center.

THE CITIZEN | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES

will qualify as paid letters.

• Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification.

• Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

• Letters are meant to express opinions. If letter-writers include facts, they must attribute those facts to a reputable source.

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid

endorsement letters will be published as space permits.

• Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters.

• 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. 4 election will be printed in the Oct. 8 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.15.

• To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Leadership should model respect, civility and accountability

Serving on a school board is a position of trust. With that responsibility comes the expectation that board members conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity, both in the boardroom and in the public eye.

In today’s world, a large part of that “public eye” is social media. While every individual is entitled to their personal opinions, those elected to serve our schools must recognize that their online presence carries weight and influence. Comments made on personal accounts, even outside of official meetings, quickly become associated with the school district they represent.

When board members use social platforms to share disparaging remarks, spread misinformation or engage in combative behavior, it undermines the trust of the community and distracts from the real issues facing our schools. Our children, families and educators deserve leadership that models respect, civility and accountability.

Freedom of speech is a right, but leadership requires responsibility. School board members should hold themselves to the same standards online as they are expected to in person — measured words, thoughtful engagement and a focus on solutions, not insults. After all, we ask our students to model this same behavior.

At a time when school safety, educational quality and student well-being are pressing concerns, our community deserves leaders who rise above online negativity and use their platforms to foster constructive dialogue. The role of a school board member is not simply to govern, but also to set an example for the next generation.

If a board member cannot meet this standard, then the responsibility is clear: he or she must either change their behavior to reflect the dignity of the office he/ she holds, or step down. And just as importantly, fellow board members must not remain silent in the face of harmful conduct. Silence makes them complicit. They should call for higher standards and accountability or accept that they share responsibility for the backlash that follows from a member’s conduct.

Tamara Comstock Hugo

ORCHID RESTAURANT: Voted ‘the Best’

FROM PAGE 1

contests, along with Best Stir Fry in the Shoreview Press.

It also finished as a finalist for Pho Soup in the Quad and Shoreview markets along with Fried Rice, Chow Mein and Stir Fry in White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights.

“It means a lot. It is a blessing,” said owner Ninh Nguyen.

“We are happy to serve the customers in this area. We really appreciate our customers. They are really loyal.”

The business, located by Emagine White Bear, has been owned and operated by the Nguyen family for over 20 years. The

family also owns two restaurants in France, which inspires the distinctive flavors of Vietnamese and French cooking represented on Orchid’s menu. Customers will also find Chinese and Thai dishes as well as children, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

“People love our egg rolls and cream cheese wontons,” Nguyen said. “They aren’t the same as anywhere else.” He added that their chicken entrees are also popular.

Why does the business continue to be popular among voters?

Nguyen said in addition to a focus on customer service, they work hard to maintain an “upscale” and clean environment.

“We try to concentrate on customer service. We want our customers to be happy,” he said. We cook how we would eat … If it is good enough for me, then the customer will like it.” Business is down 15 to 20% as a result of the ongoing construction related to the I-35E and County Road J project. “We are still open during construction,” Nguyen said. For more information on Orchid Restaurant, visit www. orchid-restaurant.com.

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

COPS&COURTS

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following calls for service:

• A motorist on Frenchman Road and Victor Hugo Blvd. N. at 11:56 p.m. Aug. 19 was cited for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for expired registration. A second motorist stopped for expired registration received a citation for failure to provide proof of insurance at 12:05 a.m. Aug. 20 on Oneka Parkway N. and Frenchman Road. A third motorist stopped for expired registration was cited at 3:41 a.m. Aug. 20 on Forest Blvd. N. and 170th Street N. for driving after revocation. A fourth motorist stopped for expired registration was cited for that violation at 8:59 a.m. Aug. 20 in the 13000 block of Fountain Avenue N.

• Theft from motor vehicle was reported at 8:59 a.m. Aug. 20 in the 5000 block of 149th Street N.

• Deputies dispatched out to the scene of a vehicle stopped in the middle of traffic at 8:40 p.m. Aug. 20 on Frenchman Road and Forest Blvd. N. with its hazards on discovered that the vehicle was out of gas. The driver told deputies there could be a leak in the gas tank. They drove the motorist to his house, where he picked up a can of gas to replenish the vehicle enough to limp home. At 9:04 p.m. that same evening, deputies received a call regarding a smell of gas on Forest Blvd. N. and Frenchman Road, thus confirming the driver’s theory that he had a gas leak.

• A motorist was cited for speeding in the 9000 block of 122nd Street N. at 8:01 a.m. Aug. 21.

• A parent reported her children being threatened by teenagers at the community center in the 15000 block of Farnham Avenue N. at 6:13 p.m. Aug. 24.

• Deputies took a call at 9:03 p.m. Aug. 24 about a vehicle parked perpendicularly in a cul-de-sac in the 13000 block of Europa Court N. On arrival at the scene, deputies could not figure out whether the vehicle

was violating state statute or city ordinance.

• Deputies conducted a successful warrant arrest in the 16000 block of Elmcrest Avenue N. at 8:42 a.m. Aug. 25.

• After a resident in the 5000 block of 161st Street N. reported receiving threats from two unknown numbers at 1:43 p.m. Aug. 25, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies found out that his information is online for those looking for jobs. Deputies advised the complainant to block the calls or to change numbers.

• A resident in the 13000 block of Fondant Trail N. at 3:29 p.m. Aug. 25 reported that another male had come to his house more than once to demand packages that he said he had delivered to the complainant’s house.

• Deputies’ squad car was reported damaged at 4:14 p.m. Aug. 25 in the 4000 block of Fable Hill Parkway N.

• A motorist driving around the construction barrier in the 5000 block of 141st Street N. was cited at 9:32 p.m. Aug. 25. A second motorist was cited for multiple motor vehicle infractions at 4:50 p.m. Aug. 26 in the 13000 block of Forest Blvd. N. A third motorist was cited for speeding 69 mph in a 55 mph zone at 4:05 a.m. Aug. 28 in the 12000 block of Forest Blvd. N. A fourth motorist was cited for three violations at 2:05 p.m. Aug. 28 in the 9000 block of 122nd Street N., following a traffic stop for speeding. A fifth motorist was cited at 1:52 a.m. Aug. 30 in the 14000 block of Forest Blvd. N. for speeding.

• A dog was reported for biting a juvenile at 2:19 p.m. Aug. 26 in the 16000 block of Fenway Court N.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 9:17 p.m. Aug. 26 in the 6000 block of westbound 151st Street Court N. for speeding in a 30 mph zone by east-facing deputies on stationary patrol who clocked the vehicle on radar at 51 mph. The driver was also verbally warned about an expired driver’s license.

• After residents in the 14000 block of Homestead Avenue N. reported a person parked on their property to sleep in his vehicle without permission at 7:50

a.m. Aug. 27, deputies issued a trespass notice to the slumper.

• A business in the 5000 block of 165th Street N. at 9:53 a.m. Aug. 28 reported an individual for emailing the business in an attempt to change an employee’s direct deposit to a fraudulent account. The attempt at fraud was unsuccessful.

• A suspected intoxicated motorist was pulled over in the interest of public safety at 10:15 p.m. Aug. 28 on Highway 61 at 125th Street N.

The driver revealed that he was eating corn and drinking water, and he was cited for failure to maintain a single lane.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 10:27 p.m. Aug. 28 on Forest Blvd. N. and 137th Street N. on a young adult whose muffler was popping and crackling explosively. Due to the young man’s squeaky clean record, deputies were merciful and issued him a written warning to encourage him to install the correct equipment on his vehicle.

• Theft of cryptocurrency was reported at 2:22 p.m. Aug. 29 from the 15000 block of Emerald Drive N.

Deputies were sent an email with transaction confirmation as part of their investigation.

• A motorist was arrested for driving after cancellation at 8:20 p.m. Aug. 29 on 170th Street N. and Fenway Avenue N., following a traffic stop for speeding.

• Deputies arrested a motorist at 2:49 p.m. Aug. 30 on Forest Blvd. N. at 165th Street N. for fleeing a traffic stop in a motor vehicle, until deputies caught up to the vehicle again to conduct a successful traffic stop with greater consequences for the suspect.

• A motorist was arrested for DWI at 10:40 p.m. Aug. 30 on Highway 61 and 170th Street N.

Loretta

Harding

Energy from Italy boosts Bears volleyball

BY BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTING WRITER

“Hands across the sea” is what they call it when friendly countries or individuals help each other out across the Atlantic. White Bear Lake sports has enjoyed such helping hands two straight autumns now.

This year It’s Martina Callegari, a junior volleyball player from Italy whose multiple skills and veteran presence have helped spark the Bears to their best season in at least two decades.

“Martina is very steady. She’s a consistent hitter. She brings us a kind of energy and calmness if things start to get frazzled,” said coach Mackenzie Leverty. “And we know we can give her the ball in a high pressure situation and she’ll put it away.”

That was especially evident when the Bears edged first-place Cretin-Derham Hall in St. Paul 3-2 on Oct. 3 as Callegari delivered 26 kills and 14 digs. She capped the first game 26-24 with an ace serve and the fifth 15-13 with a stuff block.

She is just 5-foot-8 but has amassed 239 kills with a powerful left-handed stroke. Never leaving the floor, she’s also notched 139 digs and 43 aces to help the Bears post a 16-10 record, including 5-3 in the Suburban East with one match left. The Bears haven’t posted a winning season in conference since around 2000 and were 2-7 last year.

“Her volleyball IQ is high. She places the ball in smart places,” said Leverty. “She is quiet, but a leader by example.”

The Bears have other solid players, too, including Kailey Gieske, who recently notched her 2,000th dig, but this junior from a mountain town in northern Italy has been a huge boost. Last year it was another Martina making a big impact — Martina Chocarro, from Spain, who won almost every match at 3-singles to help the tennis team place second, their top SEC finish in many years.

Callegeri, who lives with the Grauer family, said she became intrigued with studying abroad when she watched videos of girls who had done it. So she took all the necessary steps and got accepted. The only problem was that she didn’t know if volleyball would be part of the package in the U.S.

“When I found out in February that I could play here, it was the most important thing that I want to do,” she said, “because in Italy I play volleyball all year. Playing here is an amazing opportunity.”

In Europe, that means club volleyball. No school teams there. Suiting up for a school here, with fellow athletes and other schoolmates cheering the team on along with parents, is a fun new experience.

“I like the noise. But I am always focused on playing the game,” Callegeri said. Asked what else she’s enjoying here, she listed attending a big, new school, being able to choose her classes, and having time in class to do homework. “It’s so different here,” she smiled.

Cougars fend off Blaine rally 28-21

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

After two straight wins, the Centennial Cougars had to battle to the final seconds Friday night to hold off the Blaine Bengals 28-21 in Blaine, improving to 6-1. Coming off 36-0 wins over Roseville and Rogers, the Cougars dominated the first half at Blaine and led 14-0, then got a kick return touchdown from Tanner Dittrich, but the Bengals (4-3) caught up with a 21-point third quarter.

The Cougars could not put it away until Justin Driver intercepted a pass at the two-yard line with a minute and a half left — after an apparent game-tying touchdown pass was nullified for a holding penalty — and they were able to chew up the rest of the clock with seven straight runs.

“For us to start at the two-yard line like that and run out the clock was very impressive,” Coach Mike Diggins noted. Scampers by quarterback Isaac Belinske-Strauss on third-and-seven and third-and-two clinched the win. The Cougars rushed for 261 yards.

Blaine quarterback Jameson Niska was 9-for-14 for 194 yards with a 28yard touchdown pass to Elijah Mancell and ran for two touchdowns. He also suffered two interceptions inside the five, the other by Nolan Larson. Belinske-Strauss carried 25 times for 94 yards with one- and seven-yard touchdowns. Edwin Ekah carried seven times for 64 yards with a 17-yard touchdown. Caleb Melser had 12 toes for 59 yards, Larson a 21-yard gain and Alex Koehn a 12-yard end-around.

Driver was 4-for-4 on XPs and 3-for-5 on kickoff touchbacks.

Dittrich gave the Cougars a 21-7 lead with electrifying 92-yard gallop in his lone kick return of the year. He got the ball on the right half mark, picked his way straight head, veered right to the sideline and outran the Bengals to the end zone.

Centennial is tied for the lead in the Metro North division of Class 6A with Champlin Park, each 4-1, followed by Andover and Osseo, each 3-2. Andover dealt the Cougars their lone loss, 22-16. The Cougars will host Anoka (0-7) in the regular season finale on Wednesday.

Mahtomedi Soccer and Football

October 16, 2025

Berger, Mahtomedi senior, is performing a rare double duty this fall as a standout goalie for the girls soccer team and reliable placekicker for the boys football team. Long and agile at 6-foot-3, Berger is a formidable presence in the nets for a team that’s 13-2-2 with 10 shutouts and just 12 goals allowed. She has committed to a Division I team, University of St. Thomas. In five games kicking for the football team she’s 10-for-13 on extra points (counting blocks) with one field goal from 23 yards. She’s been one of the kickers since 10th grade when she was 5-for-6 on XP’s. Berger also placed third at state in shot put (40-3 3/4) as a sophomore in her only track season.

BUS TOUR: 19th annual citywide event rescheduled

FROM PAGE 1

The “bus” tour couldn’t come at a more “extraordinary time,” Bear noted, because heading into 2026, the city will begin the process for updating its comprehensive plan. Currently, the city is operating under its 2040 comp plan, but over the next three years, it will work on updating the plan for the next decade — 2050.

All cities, counties and townships in the seven-county metropolitan area must prepare a comprehensive plan and update it as needed every 10 years. The plan sets the direction for the city in the future and lays out actions on how to get there. The plan includes land use, transportation, water, housing, infrastructure and economic development goals, and serves as the foundation of development review.

“It’s all up in the air for discussion, so we as a community have a lot of a lot to say about what goes into that plan. We get some guidance. We get some rules from the Met Council and others to help us put that plan together, but decisions that are going to come between now and 2028 are going to be important,” Bear explained.

At the end of the year, the City Council and various commissions will come up with goals it would like to focus on for 2026.

“We try our best to make those things happen,” Bear said. “Those are the wishes of the city and our job is being able to happen. We take those discussions very seriously, so the tour is intended to be a start of a lot of conversations.”

The city of Hugo recently received a document called a “System Statement” from the Metropolitan Council, which triggers the comprehensive plan update. “It provides us some guidance and some rules that we need to follow,” Bear explained. One change that may pose a challenge for the city

is density requirements. Currently, the Met Council says the city of Hugo needs to have an average density of 3 units per acre. That will need to increase to 3.5 units per acre.

Emma Dvorak, Sector 11 representative for the Met Council, said that change will only apply to areas guided for new development. “You can have a higher density area in one part of the city and one unit per acre in another part of the city as long as the net average of those areas guided for growth is 3.5 overall,” Dvorak clarified.

Bear explained that sometimes there is a discrepancy between what the Met Council would like to see versus what developers who approach the city are asking to build. Bear said the market in Hugo is “not ready” for those several hundred-unit apartment complexes you see in some other cities, but the city has seen some success with “rental townhomes,” which are typically about 12 units per building. They look like townhomes, but they don’t have property lines running through them. Two examples are the Jack Pine Place development, across from Lions Volunteer Park, and Oneka Fields, which is currently under construction at the entrance of the Shores of Oneka Lake Development off of the 159th Street roundabout.

Currently, the Planning Commission is considering a zoning text amendment that would allow for narrower lots to achieve more dwellings per acre. Bear explained that the market in Hugo is for large houses. “We used to have small houses on large lots; now we have large houses on small lots,” Bear explained. Despite the larger lot sizes, the price points have stayed high.

Associate Planner Max Gort described the effort as “a really big project,” which will likely not come before the commission as a public hearing for quite some time yet.

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

WEEKLY WAG

Meet Lola Jayne. This 5-month-old young lady will melt your heart. She is stunningly snow white and beautiful. Lola Jayne is a German shepherd/Great Pyrenees mix. She currently weighs 35 pounds and she is sure to get much bigger, so big dog lovers, please take notice. Lola Jayne is described by her foster as the sweetest, softest pup with a heart of gold. She is smart and she loves treats. Lola Jayne is already house-trained,

crate-trained and leashtrained. She is social with other dogs and social with other animals,

even cats, chickens and peacocks. Lola Jayne is super friendly to everyone she meets. She is an

instant crowd favorite. Lola Jayne is smart, playful, affectionate, eager to please and gentle, and when it is time to relax, she thinks she is a lap pet. Lola likes being with her people. She is magnificently gorgeous and if you are interested in learning more about Lola Jayne or adopting her, please fill out an application at www. ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.

Planning Commission recommends approval of 1st solar farm since ordinance redo

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

HUGO — The Planning Commission and the City Council have approved the first plan for a solar farm after imposing a moratorium and revising its solar farm ordinance.

In 2016, the council adopted an ordinance regulating the use of solar energy systems. The city’s only solar farm development up to this point was approved in 2018 along 165th Street. The council and Planning Commission recommended that the ordinance relating to solar farms be revised in 2023 and again in 2025, primarily to address community feedback. The Ordinance Review Committee recommended revisions to the performance standards for solar farms, which were approved by the council back in April.

Cedar Creek Energy has requested approval of a site plan and interim use permit for a solar farm at 7776 157th St. N. Associate Planner Max Gort explained that the property totals 38.25 acres and is located within the Agricultural zoning district. Cedar Creek proposes to install a solar farm on approximately 4.6 acres of land in the northwest corner of the property, which will produce approximately 1 megawatt of power.

Per the city’s ordinance, solar farms are to be located “insofar as possible, on a central portion of the property” to minimize visual impact on adjacent properties. Commission Member Cindy Petty wanted to know why the proposed location in the northwest corner of the property was “the best place” for the solar array. Gort said staff was comfortable with the placement because there would be less impact on wetlands. He added that the array had already been relocated slightly to be further away from a residence to the south.

“It does look kind of like people want it on their property, but they want it as far away from their own house as possible,” Petty commented.

Community Development Director Rachel Juba explained that the property is occupied by Lutz Cuts, so there is not a house on the property. Juba said that in talking with the applicant, Cedar Creek Energy, they preferred avoid impacting existing screening and wetlands. There was also consideration, she said, to make the property as efficient as possible for farming.

“We have come to the conclusion that this meets the intention of the code,” she said.

Cedar Creek is proposing a single-axis tracker system, which allows the panels to rotate throughout the day to follow the sun from east to west. In addition to the vegetation already present on the property, trees are proposed on the west and southeast sides of the solar array in addition to a 7-foot-tall fence.

Petty questioned whether that vegetative screening should go all the way around the array. Commission Member Phil Klein, who served as a member of the Ordinance Review Committee, explained that the requirements are “much more stringent” than what they were in the past. He noted that the side that does not have new trees planned is far back from the road. He added that the property would likely be used for a crop like corn, which could also add screening.

Alex Gast, of Cedar Creek Energy, said if they needed to plant trees along the southwest side of the solar array, it would “not be the end of the world.”

Commission Member Steve Andress wanted to know if the panels used for a single-axis tracker system would have more or less glare than a system like the one along 165th Street. Gast explained that the panels have an anti-reflective coating to help mitigate glare and wouldn’t necessarily cause more or less glare than that other kind of solar array.

“There are times where you could potentially see a yellow, red glare but it would be for small moments of the day when the sun coming up or going down. It would be similar to the glare on a windshield,” he said. Commission Member Matthew Derr inquired about noise of the system. Gast said there will be almost no noise, as the system will use two small motors. “It is probably less noise than an air conditioner.”

John Lutz, one of the property owners, said, “The new ordinance put us in a shoebox that is too small. The field is not reaching its potential to be a solar field … Now with the new ordinance, we are condensing it to the point where we are going to have to sit down with Cedar Creek Energy to see if it is feasible.”

Lutz requested the council consider allowing a second solar array on the property. Per the ordinance, the limit is one solar array on a minimum of 20 acres.

Petty responded, “I’m not interested in going back and revisiting all the decisions that we have made … We have done a lot of work on what everybody in the city has given input on, what they want, what they want to see, and I think we have to respect that.”

Klein echoed, “The ordinance has been set. We have had that conversation already.” Klein added that it would be up to the applicant and the property owners to decide if they want to move forward with the current plan or redo things and come back around with another application in the future.

Lutz clarified that he wasn’t asking the city to change its ordinance, but rather if there was wiggle room to square footage to the existing array proposed. Petty noted that the proposal was for 4.6, acres so perhaps some panels could be added up to the maximum of 5 acres allowed.

Juba noted that the application in front of the Planning Commission was for these specific plans. If things needed to be tweaked, the applicants would have to withdraw their application and submit a new one for consideration.

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

SAFE STEP NORTH Amer icas #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and se rvice. Now featuring our FR EE shower pa ckage and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call to day! Financing available. Call Safe Step 833/96638 82

truck, or SUV to a ssist the blind and visually impaired. Ar range a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Herita ge for the Blin d Today at 844/220-9501 today! GET BOOST IN FINITE! Unlimited talk text and data for just $25/mo! The power of 3 5G networ ks, one low price! Call today and get the latest iPhone every year on us! 855/849-66 21

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERN ET! Free in stall, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 in gift cards. Call today! 855/562-4309

He alth IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SU RGERY and suffered an infection between 2022 an d the present time you ma y be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Ch ar les H. Johnson 800/535-5727

WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/720-2142 WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs No fuss Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash

S E R V I C E D I

Centerville sets 2026 preliminary budget, general fund levy

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

CENTERVILLE — Every year at this time, cities throughout Minnesota set their preliminary budget and tax levies to fund the upcoming year. Centerville is no exception.

The Centerville City Council adopted a resolution to approve the proposed 2026 preliminary budget, set the maximum tax levy and cancel the debt service tax levies.

The 2026 general fund levy has been set at $3,298,918, an increase of 288,697, or 9.6% over 2025’s levy.

The 2026 total proposed tax levy has been set at $3,527,728, an increase of $262,657, or 8% over the 2025 total tax levy. The proposed 2026 budget will increase revenues and expenditures by 4.8%.

Major expenditure increases of $166,297 are driven by the police contract increase of $109,459, as well as wage and benefit hikes and fund transfers.

Meanwhile, revenue decreased by $122,400, mostly due to the loss of $65,000 in transfers and a reduction of $60,000 in anticipated building permit revenues.

The bad news is that the city has little ability to offset these decreases in anticipated revenue with anything other than the property tax levy, Finance Director Bruce DeJohng said. The good news is that the debt service levy decreased by 10.2%, which saves the city $26,040. For the past few years, the city has planned for debt service decreases in its future budgets by paying for projects from the city’s funds, rather than issuing bonds. When the debt service levy is combined with the general fund levy, the total levy increase for 2026 is 8%, or $262,657.

DeJong said that 8% is a reasonable increase given the city’s decreases in revenue, and it is similar to the 7.7% increase levied by Centerville last year.

The impact of the upcoming year’s taxes on a median-value home won’t be known until December, DeJong said. Figures are not available right now, because Anoka County won’t be sending this information out until November, he noted. This data will be known in time for the truth in taxation public hearing scheduled at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11. The city will then set the final 2026 budget and total proposed levy.

By state statute, the tax levy set in the preliminary budget in September is not allowed to increase when the final budget and levy is set in December. However, the levy amount may decrease.

The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an

request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall

• Ryan Christiansen will fill the vacant position of public works director. Christiansen has experience as a tree service professional as well as in equipment operation and has a mechanical background. He will start Oct. 20 at pay grade 5, step 3.

• Bob Bieniek was found to be the best fit for the open lieutenant position on the Hugo Fire Department. The department received three letters of interest in the position. Bieniek has been with the department since December 2008 and served as lieutenant from 2011 to 2014 and then as captain until December 2021.

• Michael Kelly has submitted his resignation from the Planning Commission. He has served on the commission since November 2022. In his letter to Mayor Tom Weidt, Kelly referenced his age of 81 as the reason for his resignation.

the

• City staff has negotiated an amendment to the current T-Mobile water tower antenna site lease. The lease expired at the end of September, and T-Mobile wishes to keep its communication antenna equipment on Water Tower No. 3 (north tower).

• The city is gearing up for its 2026 street improvement project in the Bald Eagle Industrial Park area. (See full story in this week’s issue.)

• Six furnaces and eight air conditioners will be replaced at City Hall. Over the past few years, there have been several failures of the systems that have resulted in costly repairs and replacement of parts. Staff received three different quotes and found Kraft Contracting and Mechanical provided the best quote of $100,125.

who did not appear to be in distress. The owner was informed of the complaint.

• The city will purchase a vacant parcel on 145th Street North for $75,000. The city has been purchasing property and acquiring easements for the future extension of Finale Avenue from 145th Street N. south to CSAH 8/Frenchman Road. City staff became aware that a vacant parcel directly south of Finale Avenue was for sale. The property is the missing piece of land that is needed for the road extension and adjacent to land the city already owns.

under investigation.

• An officer took a report of theft from motor vehicle Sept. 8 that occurred in the 7500 block of Norway Lane. The officer investigated and found there was no suspect information available.

• North Suburban Chapter 239 has applied for a lawful gambling exempt permit to hold bingo and raffles at an event on

• An officer responded Sept. 8 to a phone call fraud report in the 1500 block of Holly Drive. The officer investigated and determined the reporting party was not out any money. No suspects were identified.

• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a delayed report of theft in the 700 block of Apollo Drive from a local business. After investigating, the suspect was mailed a citation for theft.

• Officers responded Sept. 8 to a report of a disorderly male in a parking lot in the 700 block of Apollo Drive. Officers made contact with the male and issued him a citation for disorderly conduct.

• While on patrol Sept. 9, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7100 block of Otter Lake Road and cited the driver for littering.

• While on patrol Sept. 9, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 7400 block of 20th Avenue. The male driver was arrested on an outstanding warrant from another agency. The male was transported and booked at jail.

Jan. 23, 2026, at American Legion Post 620. The permit will be issued by the Minnesota Gambling Control Board, after council approved it.

• Over the last several years, the city has been making updates to the fire station that was built in 1999. To complete the project, the fire department would like to clean and paint the apparatus bay and update the drinking fountain with a drinking fountain/bottle filler. Multiple quotes were received; the best quotes were from Fresh Paint and White Bear Plumbing. Public works staff will be utilized for moving most of the equipment and items before and after the project. The total cost of the project will be $32,975 ($30,425 to Fresh Paint for painting the bay and $2,550 to White Bear Plumbing for updates to the drinking fountain).

• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a report of a runaway female juvenile in the 100 block of Morgan Lane. The juvenile was later located by law enforcement and provided a courtesy transport home.

• The 2025 Beaver Ponds area street improvement project cost came in at $1,196,189, of which $337,810 will be paid for by assessments. City Engineer Mark Erichson explained that the assessment rate for the project was generally $2,100

• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a traffic complaint involving a business in a residential neighborhood near the intersection of Highland Drive and Arlo Lane. Officers made contact with the company and advised them of the complaint.

• An officer was dispatched Sept. 12 to a gas station in the 7500 block of Lake Drive to check on a female who was acting strangely. The female left the area prior to the officer’s arrival. The officer investigated and determined no apparent crime had been committed.

• An officer are investigating a delayed report of theft Sept. 12 in the 6800 block of Sunrise Drive.

• Officers responded Sept. 13 to a report of a suspicious group of people who were egging a car in the 7700 block of Meadow View Trail. The suspects were not identified, and the vehicle owner was provided with a case number.

per unit, although there were some variations in assessment amounts depending on whether a parcel was a corner lot or owned by a homeowners association.

Benefiting property owners have until Nov. 15 to pay the assessment amount in full, before it is certified to Washington County for collection with property taxes over a five-year period with an interest rate of 5.05%.

• City staff are working to reschedule the annual city bus tour after the bus broke down in the parking lot right before the tour. The plan is that the bus tour will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25. Those interested in attending should contact Associate Planner Max Gort at MGort@ ci.hugo.mn.us.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

• An officer responded Sept. 9 to a traffic complaint involving a school bus in the 7700 block of Lake Drive. The bus company was contacted and notified of the complaint.

• Officers responded Sept. 11 to a report of a suspicious vehicle parked on a residential street in the 6500 block of Lacasse Drive. Officers made contact with the owners of the vehicle and determined there was no crime.

• Officers were advised Sept. 11 by another law enforcement agency that a Lino Lakes resident made a threat of violence toward a school. The incident was investigated, and a juvenile was arrested in the 400 block of Andall Street.

• An officer responded Sept. 11 to a report of harassment in the 7900 block of Henry Lane. The case is

• Officers and the fire department responded Sept. 13 to a report of a possible explosion that was heard in the 6500 block of Hokah Drive. The area was checked, and no problems were found.

• Officers responded Sept. 14 to a report of a neighbor dispute in the 200 block of Stallion Lane. Officers spoke with parties involved and arrested an adult male for DWI. The male was booked at jail for second-degree DWI and alcohol content of 0.08 or more within two hours.

• An officer responded Sept. 14 to a report of an attack by an animal in the 7300 block of Leonard Avenue. The victim did not need ambulance assistance. The owner of the animal was issued a citation.

• An officer responded Sept. 14 to a report of a single-vehicle motor crash that occurred near the intersection of 20th Avenue and 80th Street. No injuries were noted, and the vehicle was