Hello!

I just got back from Wisconsin this weekend after helping my parents move from my childhood home to their new place. I took back books, pins and close to a thousand sports cards. A bittersweet experience, but as my grandma told me: home is where the heart is.

In this week’s Out & About, we highlight a student-led effort making prom dresses far more affordable for local families, a reminder of how small ideas can make a big difference in a community. You’ll also find a full slate of spring events, from outdoor walks to concerts and community gatherings.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

Prom Dresses For $20? East Ridge Students Lead Affordable Fashion Effort

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

For some high school girls, prom is all about the dress, with the gown picked out and hanging in the closet even before the prom proposal has been made or the prom squad assembled.

For others, the choice is overwhelming and delayed. And for parents, the experience of finding and paying for a dress can be daunting.

Experts in the field say the average prom dress runs about $500, with many frothy and sparkly frocks topping $1,000.

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Highlighted Events

Wildflower Walk Saturday, April 18, 1-2 p.m. | 6959 Peller Ave. S, Hastings Join a naturalist for a guided walk through blooming spring wildflowers. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

Levi Woodbury, whose name was applied to our fair city, had quite the resume. He served as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, a United States Senator, the ninth governor of New Hampshire and cabinet member in Andrew Jackson (Secretary of the Navy) and Martin Van Buren’s (Secretary of the Treasury) administrations. He also served as a New Hampshire state senator and on the state’s supreme court.

The Minnesota Twins page in my (Theo) binder of baseball cards.

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Good morning and happy National Local News Day!

Ever since I started working here, it’s been a constant reminder about how meaningful it is to be part of a broader effort to keep communities informed and engaged. And I love every bit of it.

That mission was front and center for us at Woodbury News Net as we joined other outlets and nonprofit organizations at the State Capitol to advocate for stronger local news across Minnesota and beyond.

On that note, we bring you good ole fashioned updates across Woodbury, from city service changes and road construction to a fourth grader stepping into the mayor’s role for a day.

Thank you for reading and supporting local journalism, it matters more than ever.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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Top Story

WNN representatives Susan Kent (second to the left) and Manali Shah (second to the right) with Minnesota Rep. Shelley Buck (far left) and Sen. Amanda Hemmingsen Jaeger (far right) at the Minnesota State Capitol on April 7, 2026.

Woodbury News Net Joins Push For Local News At Capitol

by Theo Franz | Published on April 8, 2026

Journalists, civic leaders and community advocates gathered Tuesday at the Minnesota State Capitol for the first rally organized by the True North News Alliance, a statewide coalition working to strengthen community-centered civic information and local news across Minnesota.

All shared a common message: access to local news plays a critical role in keeping communities informed and engaged.

The morning’s speakers included True North chair Yengyee Lor, Minnesota Star Tribune CEO Steve Grove, Charlie Weaver of Metro Nonprofit News Network, Jasmine Russell of the African American Leadership Forum, Anais Froberg-Martinez of ThreeSixty Journalism, and legislative members Sen. Heather Gustafson, DFL-36, and Rep. Wayne Johnson, R-41A.

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News

Several City Services Temporarily Moving To City Hall by Pat Mack By the end of the month, a few services in Woodbury will move to City Hall during the Public Safety Campus Improvement Project. Continue Reading

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City & County

Woodbury Fourth Grader Named Mayor For A Day At Council, Advocates For Chickens And Ducks by Beth-Ann Bloom Felix Johnson, a Woodbury Cub Scout and Red Rock Elementary fourth grader, opened Wednesday's City Council meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and then was seated in the Mayor’s chair. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Events: Rummage Sales, Crafts and Carnivals by Woodbury News Net Staff To submit an event for inclusion on this calendar, send an email to news@woodburynewsnet.org . Please include a link where readers can go for further information. Continue Reading

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In Other News

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Good morning!

I’m currently trying not to think about how much food I ate on Sunday. I regret none of it, but one more serving of cheesy potatoes and you might not hear from me on Thursday.

As for our Out & About this week, we are highlighting Hunter Friesen’s glowing review of the new Super Mario Movie sequel. For events, there is a social hour tomorrow for those interested in learning more about Woodbury Days, as well as a couple of new support groups and the beginning of rummage sale season.

Enjoy the week ahead!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

Mario (Chris Pratt) and Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) in "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie." Photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

“Super Mario Galaxy Movie” soars to new worlds

By: Hunter Friesen

As much as I surprisingly enjoyed 2023’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” there was a feeling that it was the most corporatized version of itself. That’s not much of a surprise, as the corporate rights holder, Nintendo, is notorious for holding onto its intellectual property with an iron grip.

It’s a lesson they initially had to learn the hard way, with 1993’s live-action “Super Mario Bros.” being an unmitigated disaster, a disrespectful piece of adaptation equally hated by the creators and fans. In shame, the company halted any attempts for big-budget theatrical adaptations, finally opening the vault decades later with “Pokémon: Detective Pikachu” and “The Super Mario Bros. Movie.”

Bowling with the guard rails up isn’t sexy, but it got the job done to the tune of $1.3 billion in box office earnings for the return of Mario to the silver screen, this time in a more appropriate animated form.

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Highlighted Event

Woodbury Days Social Hour Wednesday, April 8, 6:30-8 p.m. | 4120 Radio Drive A chance to chat about organizing this summer’s Woodbury Days over snacks. All are welcome. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

Levi Woodbury, for whom our city is named, was an Associate Justice of the U.S Supreme Court from 1845 until his death in 1852. He was the first justice on the court to have attended law school.

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Good morning.

For the top story this week, WNN takes a closer look at a growing scam targeting Minnesotans through crypto kiosks, as lawmakers push for new restrictions to curb the losses.

We also track the start of another demanding road construction season in Woodbury, along with updates on a statewide burn ban and ongoing county infrastructure projects. We also included our list of Easter brunches across the Twin Cities and east metro.

Have a great day!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Weather

Top Story

A crypto kiosk inside a Holiday gas station off of Eagle Creek Lane in Woodbury. (Credit/Manali Shah)

Minnesota Lawmakers Push Ban On Crypto Kiosks As Scams Target Seniors And Cost Residents Thousands

by Manali Shah | Published on April 1, 2026

It's as simple as receiving a call from an unfamiliar phone number.

The message worries you: “This is the Police Department. Your car was recorded crossing a red light. Pay your fine now in order to avoid arrest. Call this number for further details.”

The voice on the other end warns you to not hang up. You are directed to go to a cryptocurrency kiosk and deposit $500. In the following days and weeks, you end up making several such deposits, unknowingly falling victim to a the newest pervasive scam effecting thousands of Minnesotans.

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News

Intense Road Construction Season Blooms In Woodbury by Pat Mack Pick your adjective: grueling, intense, tiring, formidable, demanding, arduous. Any and all apply to another road construction season kicking off in Woodbury. Continue Reading

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City & County

Woodbury Included In Spring Burn Ban Across Minnesota by Pat Mack Beginning March 30, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is banning the burning of brush and yard waste in Washington County including Woodbury. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Easter Brunches Across Twin Cities And East Metro by Beth-Ann Bloom Since not everyone considers chocolate bunnies and jelly beans to be an appropriate holiday menu, it’s a good thing that the Twin Cities offer both prepared foods that you can serve in your own home on Easter as well as restaurants with festive brunches and dinners. Continue Reading

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In Other News

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Good morning!

Spring has started to show up, but that might change this week with a cold forecast ahead. Either way, we still have plenty of things to do to keep your mind off of the upcoming “Minnesota Fourth Winter.”

This week’s Out & About, we shared a list of Easter brunch options across the Twin Cities and a calendar full of early spring-themed events.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

Easter Brunches Across Twin Cities And East Metro

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

Since not everyone considers chocolate bunnies and jelly beans to be an appropriate holiday menu, it’s a good thing that the Twin Cities offer both prepared foods that you can serve in your own home on Easter as well as restaurants with festive brunches and dinners.

This list includes some more far-flung options too so you have additional choices if your favorite is already full. Driving a little farther gets you to Surly’s frozen shrimp luge, Red Wing’s Big Boot and some small towns in Wisconsin.

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Highlighted Event

Valley Creek Road and Settlers Ridge Parkway Intersection Improvement Project Open House Wednesday, April 1, 4-6 p.m. | Woodbury City Hall Meet with Washington County planners to learn more about the upcoming intersection improvement project. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

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Good morning and happy Opening Day! ⚾️

I can finally mark “Write a story about roundabouts for the Roundabout” off my bucket list. It isn’t an extensive list, but some items include tossing a fish at the Pike Place Market, driving the NUTmobile and petting a bear. Taking it one day at a time.

At the top of our newsletter this week, we covered a forum hosted by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison at the Central Park amphitheater where he took residents’ questions on the topics of fraud and ICE. Other stories in this edition include a recent nonprofit roundtable and the county discounting rain barrels and compost bins.

ALSO! We’ll be at the Woodbury Community Expo on Saturday. So stop by and say hi and tell us your thoughts on WNN.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Weather

Top Story

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison spoke at the Central Park amphitheater on the evening of March 19. (Credit/Theo Franz)

Attorney General Ellison Hosts Forum On Federal Actions, Rights In Woodbury

by Theo Franz | Published on March 23, 2026

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison hosted a community forum Thursday at the Central Park amphitheater where he spoke directly with residents about federal enforcement actions, constitutional authority, and fraud in state programs.

Ellison opened by explaining that his office has expanded its focus on federal accountability in response to recent national developments. He said that Minnesota has filed roughly 57 lawsuits against the Trump administration as part of that effort.

Minnesota State Sen. Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger (District 47), Reps. Ethan Cha (D-47B) and Shelley Buck (D-47A) were present at the forum along with Washington County Commissioner Karla Bigham and dozens more Woodbury residents.

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City & County

Washington County Approves Roundabout Project At Hwy 95, Bailey Road Intersection by Theo Franz The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved a cooperative agreement with Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) on March 24 for a roundabout project at County State Aid Highway 18 and Trunk Highway 95 in Woodbury and Afton to improve safety and traffic flow. Continue Reading

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Business

Nonprofit Roundtable Highlights Food Insecurity In Woodbury by Manali Shah Operation Metro Surge impacted families across the Twin Cities and even in Woodbury. One of the most significant impacts was a dramatic increase in food insecurity. The combination of families losing their breadwinners, people of color afraid to leave their homes to work and shop, and children staying home rather than going to school led to a food emergency. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Events: Business Expo, Pancake Breakfasts, Mushrooming, Concerts For All Ages by Woodbury News Net Staff To submit an event for inclusion on this calendar, send an email to news@woodburynewsnet.org. Please include your email address and a link where readers can go for further information if possible. Continue Reading

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In Other News

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Good morning!

Saturday was a welcoming glimpse of the summer to come. It reached just below 78 degrees at MSP, breaking a record for March 21 that stood since 1938 and decimating the aftermath of the record-threatening snowstorm just a week before.

Although the weather won’t be as warm this week, it is still a great time to go out and explore what Woodbury has to offer. This week, we highlight Holy Week services provided by churches across Woodbury, along with the classic Easter brunches, egg hunts and pictures with the bunny.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

Holy Week Service Times Across Woodbury

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

Holy Week, culminating on Easter Sunday (April 5), is the most sacred time on the Christian calendar.

While many Woodbury residents have a church home and plan to attend special services, others who are new to the community or not part of a congregation may be looking for a chance to join in worship.

Highlighted Event

Woodbury Community Expo Saturday, March 28 | M Health Fairview Sports Center Join us and 170 more local businesses at the Woodbury Community Expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is free to the public. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

Neither the Woodbury Heritage Society records, nor the long memory of his son Tom Bielenberg can answer this recent question: Did Woodbury's first mayor, Orville Bielenberg, receive a salary for his years of service, first to the town and then to the city.”

Tom shared, “I don’t recall a city paycheck ever being talked about at home, not that any of us as kids know much about our parents’ finances. There was the farm, and later in the 1960s, dad took a job at the University of Minnesota Experiment Farm in Rosemount. He’d come home and go work in the fields or go to a meeting.”

Dad was big on service to the community and volunteerism, so payment never occurred to me. He just never talked about serving as mayor in monetary terms.”

Orville wrote in his memoir, ”During the 1950s I spent a lot of time serving on the Woodbury Town Board. Prior to 1961, we had quite a number of subdivision applications to take care of and we also had to provide new ordinances to take care of the growth and handle the number of citizens coming to Woodbury.”

In this interval the population increased from 1,000 to 3,000.

“Prior to that time, we were a farming community. In 1967, after Woodbury became a city, I served on the Village Council and I was elected mayor in 1968. This job consisted of minimal work during the day but many meetings at night as Woodbury began to grow.”

There were about 6,000 people in Woodbury at this point.

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Good morning!

You have until 11:15 a.m. to fill out your March Madness brackets. So, if you need to take time to do it before getting to your local news, my feelings won’t be hurt (maybe a little).

This week, we lead off with a look at how local food shelves adapted to reach families who could not leave their homes during Operation Metro Surge. Elsewhere, we have early details on Woodbury Days, spring-focused initiatives and a full lineup of events as the season starts to turn.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Weather

Top Story

Kate, a volunteer at Open Cupboard, organizing food to place into their emergency boxes. (Credit/Theo Franz)

When Fear Kept Families Home, Food Shelves Brought Meals To Their Doors

by Theo Franz | Published on March 18, 2026

The knock didn’t come from a stranger. It came from someone they knew.

A teacher. A social worker. A familiar face standing on a front step, holding a week’s worth of food. It is not just groceries, but assurance that someone, somewhere, is still paying attention.

For six weeks this winter, across Woodbury and the broader South Washington County area, that was the system for food shelves.

It had to be.

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City & County

Woodbury Days Festival Set For Aug. 28-30, Live Music Announced by Manali Shah You may still be shoveling the snow off your driveway, but the hard-working, Woodbury Days volunteers have already scheduled the community festival for Friday, August 28 to Sunday, August 30.   Continue Reading

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Out & About

Events: Egg Hunts, Community Expo and Leprechaun Brunch by Woodbury News Net Staff Egg hunts, brunches and plenty of community happenings across the east metro. Continue Reading

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In Other News

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Good morning and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

There are many ways to celebrate this week, whether that means wearing green, enjoying a festive treat or raising a toast with friends. Our roundup highlights St. Patrick’s Day events and green-colored goodies across the east metro for anyone feeling a little Irish this time of year.

Sláinte!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

St. Patrick’s Day Events and Green Treats Around the East Metro

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

My good Irish mother (her maiden name was Greene) used to say that all you need to do to honor St. Patrick is go to church. Luckily there are plenty of other ways to honor him in the east metro. There are lots of options for the wearin’, eatin’ and drinkin’ of the green whether you’re Irish every day or just on March 17.

Highlighted Event

Little Leprechaun Brunch Sunday, March 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. | 8418 Tamarack Village Enjoy a brunch at the Tamarack Tap Room. Take pictures under the rainbow balloon arch with your wee ones. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

The first Irishman to settle in Woodbury was James Middleton Jr.

His parents sent the 17 year old to the Americas to look for a better place for his family to live. He left their village on the west coast of Ireland in 1839 and sailed to New Orleans with some neighbors.

After four years in St. Louis, Jimmy traveled up the Mississippi to Stillwater. Middleton spent two years looking for property. Using his parents' money he bought 200 acres near what is now Cottage Grove Drive and Bailey Road, where beautiful oaks, fertile soil and a lake completed his homestead. He immediately began building a house to prepare for the arrival of his parents and seven siblings.

After crossing the Atlantic, the family came north and  disembarked at Point Douglas at the juncture of the Mississippi and St. Croix river. The young Middleton met them with three wagons pulled by oxen for what was probably a very bumpy ride to their new home in Woodbury.

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Good Morning!

This week’s Roundabout begins with a look at the first case moving through Minnesota’s new consumer restitution fund, with former Woodbury Dental Arts patients expected to receive compensation.

We also cover major developments around the city, including a new Amazon delivery station bringing hundreds of jobs and several decisions from the City Council affecting housing and trails.

On a personal note, I recently took a short trip to California this weekend and while hiking in Joshua Tree National Park I passed a family whose daughter was wearing a Woodbury Royals T-shirt. I stopped to say hello before continuing on the trail, a cool moment for me as we at WNN keep working to bring local coverage to this town east of St. Paul.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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Top Story

Woodbury Dental Patients First To Receive Restitution From New State Fund

by Theo Franz | Published on March 9, 2026

Some former patients of Woodbury Dental Arts are poised to become the first Minnesotans to receive restitution through a new state program designed to compensate victims of consumer fraud.

The case involving Woodbury Dental Arts is the first to be processed through Minnesota’s Consumer Protection Restitution Account, a fund created by the Legislature in 2025 to reimburse victims when companies go bankrupt or otherwise lack the funds to repay consumers.

Deputy Attorney General Jessica Whitney told lawmakers on Feb. 18 the Woodbury case is first in line because it was the earliest eligible case chronologically after the fund was created.

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Business

Amazon Plans 300 Jobs at New Woodbury Delivery Station by Pat Mack More than 300 people are expected to be employed at the Amazon delivery station opening in northeast Woodbury in the next few months, according to a company spokesperson. Continue Reading

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City & County

City Council OKs Salary Increases, Housing Development, Trail Improvement by Pat Mack The Woodbury City Council approved a 6% salary increase for the mayor and council members, a 150-unit residential development near Topgolf, and the Ojibway Park trail improvement project during a Wednesday night meeting. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Friesen: Final 2026 Oscars Predictions by Hunter Friesen It’s been an exciting season, with every contender and pretender experiencing their own rollercoaster of emotions. For some, it’s been a steady climb of positivity, while for others, the fall came much sooner than expected. Continue Reading

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In Other News

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Good morning!

This week’s Out & About highlights event venues near Woodbury that offer food service, giving hosts a range of options for celebrations, meetings and special occasions.

The calendar also includes a mix of spring activities, from maple syrup hikes and beekeeping classes to concerts and other nature programs.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

Event Venues With Food Service Near Woodbury

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

You’ve been asked to organize an event with food for family, friends or work colleagues gathering to celebrate. Now you need to find a space where you can be together, visit, celebrate and eat.

(This list complements a previous article on gathering spaces where you bring in the food.)

Highlighted Event

Maple Syrup Hike Saturday, March 14, 1-3 p.m. | Carpenter Nature Center, 12805 St. Croix Trail S., Hastings Take a muddy hike to the sugarbush to learn how tree sap becomes syrup and sample the finished product. Registration required. $8. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

Woodbury has had seven mayors in its history. You may recognize their names from street signs you see around the city.

• Anne Burt (2019-present)

• Mary Giuliani Stephens (2010–2018)

• Bill Hargis (1993–2010)

• Kenneth Mahle (1990–1993)

• Dan Guider (1982–1990)

• Orville Bielenberg (1967–1982)

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Good morning!

This week’s Roundabout begins with Mayor Anne Burt’s State of the City address, where she reflected on the past year and outlined what’s ahead for Woodbury. We also have updates on city projects, new business activity and upcoming community events across Woodbury.

Also, be sure to check the “In Other News” section below for additional links to stories connected to Woodbury that you may have missed.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Weather

Top Story

Mayor Burt wore a blue coat during the State of the City address on Feb. 26 as a part of her announcement that the city will soon be incorporating the color into their city logo and across the website. (Credit/Manali Shah)

Mayor Burt Reflects On Past, Puts Sights On Future At Annual State Of City Address

by Manali Shah | Published on March 4, 2026

At the State of the City address on Feb. 26, Woodbury Mayor Anne Burt highlighted the major projects the city has embarked upon and milestones achieved by the city in 2025.

Mayor Burt began by acknowledging the three state representatives who were also present inside a full Central Park room: Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger, the new state senator representing District 47; Shelley Buck, Woodbury’s house representative from District 47A who was elected to the seat vacated by Hemmingsen-Jaeger; and Ethan Cha, house representative for District 47B.

City residents, former and current city council members, city officials, Washington County and Metropolitan Council officials were also among those present.

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City & County

Washington County Hosting Free STI Testing Clinic March 9 by Beth-Ann Bloom Free testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI) will be offered on Monday, March 9 from 1:30 until 3:30 p.m. at the Washington County Service Center on Woodlane Drive behind Kohl’s. Continue Reading

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Business

Herman Miller Store Opening At Woodbury Lakes by Pat Mack Herman Miller, the iconic furniture design brand, will open a store at Woodbury Lakes by the end of May, a company spokesperson said in an email to Woodbury News Net. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Events: Free Park Day, Night Nature Programs and Community Expo by Woodbury News Net Staff This week’s events include a hula hoop performance, International Women’s Day tap takeover, youth outdoor program, nature programs at Afton State Park, a symphony concert and family-friendly activities like inflatables and breakfast with the bunny. Continue Reading

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In Other News

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Last weekend I started to notice more people outside running, biking and wandering in the cold than before; whether it be Minnesota-bred resilience or an attempt to escape cabin fever, I’ve always seen it as a happy welcome sign for spring. I hope you too can lean into that energy heading into the final weeks of winter.

This week’s Out & About, we begin with a guide to event spaces in Woodbury and the east metro for when your guest list outgrows your living room. You’ll also find a full lineup of spring-leaning activities ahead, from discovering bones in nature to businesses highlighting International Women’s Month and breakfasts with the bunny.

Yes, we’re talking about that bunny already.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

Need More Room? Event Spaces In Woodbury And East Metro Area

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

So you agreed to host a bridal shower and after you got the guest list, you realize all those folks won’t fit in your house; the East Metro has options for you.

The following include listings of municipal spaces and meeting places. A subsequent edition will include event spaces in venues that sell food as part of the experience.

Highlighted Event

K’Nex Racing Monday, March 9, 2-4 p.m. | R.H. Stafford Library Drop-in, build and test K’Nex racers! Free. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

The Minnesota State High School League ranks All-Time Team State Championships (from 1913-Spring 2025).

Edina High School is ranked No. 1 with 162 championships since the school opened in 1949.

Stillwater Area, opened in 1873, is ranked No. 5 with 68 championships.

Woodbury High School, opened in 1975, is ranked No. 64 with 13 championships.

New Life Academy, opened in 1977, is ranked No. 128 with seven championships.

Park High School, opened in 1914, is ranked No. 161 with five championships.

East Ridge High School, opened in 2009, is ranked No. 189 with four championships.

Tartan High School, opened in 1971, is ranked No. 335 with one championship.

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Good morning!

There’s lots of movement in Woodbury this week, beginning with our top story on the progress and setbacks on the new Math and Science Academy campus set to open for the 2026-27 school year. We also report that the Hudson Road warehouse is officially “off the table” as a potential ICE processing site.

In other news, a 150-unit housing project near Topgolf received approval as the city continues to grow, while Slick City, a new indoor slide park (the biggest among all other franchises), has opened its doors.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Weather

Top Story

Math and Science Academy on Bailey Rd. (Credit/Manali Shah)

New MSA Middle And High School Advances, K-5 School Delayed

by Manali Shah | Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Woodbury-based Math and Science Academy will operate from its new Bailey Road campus starting in the 2026-27 school year.

“The last few months have been a whirlwind, but we are getting close to completion,” said MSA Executive Director Kate Hinton.

According to Hinton, furniture will arrive sometime in July and they will be able to move things from the current buildings on Radio Drive into the new buildings. The summer weather in July will also enable them to finish outdoor work while classrooms are set up inside the new building.

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News

Email Exchange Between City and ICE Confirms Hudson Road Site is "Off The Table" by Theo Franz Woodbury city officials have received written confirmation from a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) representative that the federal government is no longer pursuing the warehouse at 11435 Hudson Road as a potential processing center. Continue Reading

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City & County

Planning Commission Approves 150-Unit Housing Near Topgolf by Pat Mack The Woodbury Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit Feb. 23 for a 150-unit residential complex planned near Topgolf on Bielenberg Dr. in Woodbury. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Slick City Opens New 52,000-Square-Foot Indoor Slide Park by Theo Franz Slick City officially opened its doors in Woodbury on Tuesday with a ribbon cutting ceremony at its new indoor slide park off of Settlers Ridge Parkway. Continue Reading

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This week’s Out & About rounds up local spots serving up fish, fries and coleslaw, whether you prefer a church basement or a neighborhood grille. You’ll also find community events, from self-defense seminars to snowshoe walks and the annual State of the City.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

Top Story

The walleye fingers from Sgt. Peppers Grille & Bar in Oakdale. (https://www.sgtpeppersgrille.com)

Fish Fry Locations Across The East Metro

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

For many folks in Minnesota and Wisconsin, the Friday’s during Lent (this year, Lent is from Feb. 18 to April 2) are the perfect time for a Fish Fry. Those plates of batter-fried fish, cole slaw and fries can be found in and near Woodbury in church basements, restaurants and fast food places.

This list may have missed a few tartar sauce-laden options, but it offers a lot of choices.

Highlighted Event

Women’s Self-Defense Seminar Friday, Feb. 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Kahn Martial Arts, 1850 Weir Drive Build confidence, strengthen awareness and learn practical standing and ground self-defense skills. Participants must be over age 12. Free. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

Jessie Diggins, U.S. Olympic cross country ski champion, attended Valley Crossing Elementary School in Woodbury.

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In this week’s edition of the Roundabout, we have stories from neighborhood concerns in the Interlachen neighborhood to new opportunities for residents to get involved through the county’s recycling ambassador program.

We’re also keeping an eye on business developments and sharing a fresh lineup of community events and movie reviews.

And I wanted to add a congratulations to the Woodbury girls hockey team on an incredible season. Although it may have not been the end you expected, an undefeated regular season should not be overlooked. The community is proud of you!

Thanks for reading and staying connected.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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(Photo courtesy of Interlachen Community Association Facebook)

Interlachen Residents Urge City To Address ‘Monstrosity’ At Neighborhood Entrance

by Theo Franz | Published on Feb. 18, 2026

A longtime Woodbury resident is asking the Woodbury City Council to address what neighbors call an unsightly change to the Interlachen neighborhood’s entrance following city construction.

Speaking Feb. 11, Steve Simon said he has lived in Woodbury nearly 30 years and serves as treasurer of the Interlachen Neighborhood Association, a voluntary group representing about 145 of 187 eligible homes. The association collects roughly $24,000 annually in dues, most of which funds landscaping and beautification at the entrance off Valley Creek Road.

“We hire professionals to plant flowers and other plants, to trim them, to fertilize them,” Simon said. The group also maintains sprinklers and lighting for the entrance monuments under a long-standing agreement with the city.

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News

Washington County Opens Recycling Ambassador Registration by Pat Mack Washington County has opened registration for its annual spring ambassador program, which is a free, six-week course to turn local volunteers into waste-reduction experts. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Events: Brush Pen Lettering, Pancake Supper, Luminary Hike, Community Expo by Woodbury News Net Staff From pet expos and owl talks to a State of the City address, the coming weeks offer a mix of civic events, outdoor activities and community gatherings across Woodbury and the surrounding area. Continue Reading

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Movie Reviews

Chris Hemsworth leads all-star cast in solid ‘Crime 101’ by Hunter Friesen Simply by being a crime film set in Los Angeles that puts a weary cop and a calculating thief on a climactic collision course, the comparisons to Michael Mann’s "Heat" are rampant and obvious for "Crime 101." Even the author of the novella, Don Winslow, can’t escape scot-free, as he published it in 2020. Continue Reading

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This week, we have a guide to sports camps over the summer with many already opening registration. The guide highlights options around and in Woodbury that range from traditional team competition to rowing, tree climbing and other skill-building activities.

But if you’re looking for something to do closer to today, our calendar is full of community events this month, from pet expos and literacy workshops to snowshoe walks and the State of the City address.

Keep staying active and involved!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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Generated by AI

Summer Sports Camps Near Woodbury

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

Summer sports camps in and near Woodbury introduce new activities, from rowing to tree climbing, while building leadership skills in competitive sports like soccer and basketball. Camp coaches and directors work year-round and juggle many responsibilities, so updates about summer schedules and registration may be shared at different times.

Highlighted Event

Community Garden Plot Lottery Registration Wednesday, February. 18 | Address & Location Plots are available on Dale Road. New gardeners qualify by lottery. Returning gardeners registration currently open. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

In 1924, a "Winter Sports Week" was held in Chamonix, France. It was so successful that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) retroactively named it the First Olympic Winter Games two years later.

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Good morning!

We begin this week’s edition with a pre-session Q&A with Sen. Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger about her policies, expectations and statewide issues before she convenes with other members of congress on Feb. 17.

On the city front, updated cost estimates for the Public Safety Campus project came in below projections. And in our schools, students are building something new of their own with the launch of Woodbury High School’s first architecture club.

And on a personal note, I tried Duc’s Restaurant for the first time this week and it was phenomenal. The food, service, all of it. I highly suggest their egg roll with the spicy dipping sauce. My quest to try more local restaurants in Woodbury this year continues to be successful.

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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Pre-Session Q&A with Sen. Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger

by Theo Franz | Published on February 11, 2026

State Sen. Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger will enter the 2026 legislative session on Feb. 17 for her first full term in the Minnesota Senate, representing Senate District 47, which includes all of Woodbury and South Maplewood.

The DFL-member was first elected to the Minnesota House in 2022 and won a special election to the Senate following the resignation of former Sen. Nicole Mitchell last year.

With a short, non-budget session ahead and heightened political activity statewide, Hemmingsen-Jaeger spoke with Woodbury News Net about her transition to the Senate, her legislative priorities and the challenges she expects in the months ahead.

News

Woodbury Residents Learn How to Be Legal Observers Through Monarca by Beth-Ann Bloom Nearly 400 Woodburians gave up several hours of their Saturday to learn about Operation Metro Surge and how they can be involved as upstanders and legal observers in our community. Continue Reading

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Business

Shake Shack Coming To Woodbury Lakes by Pat Mack A business that began as a hot dog cart 25 years ago in New York City is planning to open a location in Woodbury Lakes. Continue Reading

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City & County

Cost Of Public Safety Campus Project Falls Below Estimates by Pat Mack Initial bids to construct the Public Safety Campus Improvements Project totaled about $59.3 million, about 3% below the original estimate of $61 million.  Continue Reading

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Out & About

Students Find Creativity in Woodbury High School Architecture Club by Manali Shah Last November, Woodbury High School junior Henry Olson collaborated with school staff and faculty to create the school's first ever architecture club. Continue Reading

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Summer planning season has quietly arrived, even if it doesn’t feel like it outside yet.

This week’s Out & About leads with a comprehensive guide to summer camps and programs, a timely resource as registration windows open and fill quickly. We’ve also rounded up a full slate of February events, from a variety of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day to community fundraiser meals and winter walks.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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Summer Camps and Programs: A Comprehensive Guide for Woodbury Families

By: Beth-Ann Bloom

Don't let the snow on the ground fool you… Busy parents and busy kids are already planning for summer day camps and programs.

Early registration guarantees a spot in the programs suited for each child and family. Some programs are already full while others aren’t ready to share their summer schedules yet.

This listing of summer options in Woodbury and beyond is comprehensive but not complete. The myriad of summer sports opportunities available to Woodbury kids will be shared on a separate list.

Highlighted Event

The Love Train Saturday Feb. 14, 10 a.m to 4 p.m. | Minnesota Transportation Museum Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Avenue, St. Paul. Celebrate the day of love with train rides every half hour, hands on crafts, a scavenger hunt, and lots of sweet valentines treats along the way. Aged-based admission price. Continue Reading

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Fun & Games

Today’s Solutions and Bonus Words

Fun Fact

His name is on Woodbury’s library but you may not know who R.H (Dick) Stafford was.

Stafford grew up in St. Paul but moved to Woodbury in 1966 when there were just 3000 residents. He served on almost every board and committee that contributed to the growing city. He joined with the Lions Club and others to form the volunteer ambulance corps and the Veterans’ Memorial.

If you paid taxes or bought license plates in our fair city between 1975 and 1999, you likely stamped Stafford’s name on your check since he was the Washington County auditor/treasurer. He only left the position when he was elected as a county commissioner, a position he held until 2006 and for nine months in 2008 when he filled an interim vacancy. His service to the entirety of Washington County was recognized when the library was named in his honor.

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Good morning!

Another day, another OT win for the Minnesota Wild (plus a Matt Boldy hat trick!). And if you are wondering when the next game is, you will see that it’s not until Feb. 26. That’s because the NHL is taking a league-wide break to let players, eight of them play for the Wild, participate in the games. In addition to the Olympics this month, we have the Super Bowl on Sunday, Twins pitchers and catchers report to Florida on the 12th, a slew of Timberwolves games (and the NBA All-Star break), Daytona 500, and the start to the MLS season.

And much like the sports calendar, we too have a packed newsletter. From articles on WashCo Commissioners sharing letters to state legislators and community surveys to improving your college essays (a good article to share with your kid — signed someone who had to write one seven years ago) and immigrant-owned restaurants.

Enjoy!

Editor: Theo Franz
news@woodburynewsnet.org

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The rumored location for the ICE detention facility on Hudson was approved to be a multipurpose athletic facility back in October. However, a lease has not been signed and the building remains empty (Jan. 7, 2026). Photo by Theo Franz.

Washington County Commissioners Send Letter Opposing ICE Detention Centers

by Theo Franz | Published on January 29, 2026

Washington County commissioners formally urged Minnesota’s federal delegation on Thursday to oppose any future immigration detention facility in the county.

In a letter sent to Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, and Reps. Angie Craig, Betty McCollum and Pete Stauber, the board said it is responding to “the significant and growing concern we are hearing from residents” following Dec. 24 reporting by The Washington Post that listed Woodbury as a potential ICE detention site.

The letter notes that hundreds of residents contacted county leaders and attended meetings Jan. 6 and 13, raising alarms about “significant public health and safety risks” tied to housing detainees in a facility “not designed for human habitation.” While Woodbury officials have since confirmed the Hudson Road warehouse will not be used for detention after talks with the building owner, commissioners wrote they “wish to clearly express its strong opposition to any effort to establish an immigration detention center in Woodbury or anywhere in Washington County.”

News

Woodbury’s Hotel Tax Revenue, Occupancy Rate Rise in 2025 by Pat Mack Woodbury’s in-house marketing arm beat its first full-year goals for hotel tax revenue and occupancy in 2025 and is exploring new strategies to attract overnight visitors. Continue Reading

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Schools

Kiddie Academy Opens in Woodbury, Welcomes First Families by Theo Franz A new early learning option officially opened its doors in Woodbury this week as Kiddie Academy marked the start of operations with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday. Continue Reading

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Out & About

Immigrant-Owned Restaurants In Woodbury And Nearby by Beth-Ann Bloom Estimates suggest that more than one-third of restaurant owners are immigrants. Counting restaurant workers is more difficult because many are undocumented and the share of immigrant employees varies by state. Still, the lowest estimate puts immigrants at about 22% of the workforce, with most working in kitchens. Continue Reading

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