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WHITE BEAR

L KER Vol. 1 • No. 4 • January - May 2024

Winter Issue

ISLAND HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE RENOVATION OVER WRECKING BALL

Also Featured LAKE CALENDAR , CROSS COUNTRY SKI TRACK , ICE FISHING EXPERTS , WHITE BEAR LAKE CONSERVATION DISTRICT , ICE - OUT HISTORY Press Publications

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 9 CIRCLE PINES, MN

Luxury Lakeshore Home SOLD! 73 Tamarack St., Mahtomedi

Send The LAKER your winter lake photos

Enjoying this fourth issue? Readers are the best photographers capturing the White Bear Lake vibe. Send your photos for use in The LAKER to ppinfo@presspubs.com with subject line “LAKER.” • Ice fishing • Ice sailing • Ice skating • Big catch • Scenic • Kids at the lake • Pets at the lake • Wildlife • Historic • Dreaming of summer

Another White Bear Lakeshore Home Sold by Rathmanner & Co. Are you thinking of a move in 2024 and want to know how to prepare your home for sale? Reach out to Angela at 612-581-9096 for a complimentary staging appointment. Our team is currently preparing and marketing homes through our “Private Collection” throughout the winter months.

Curious what has happened to your home’s value since the pandemic? Call Marty at 651-485-1555 for a Home Valuation Consultation.

2A THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

Join the Laker crew to get periodic email updates about lake happenings. Share your thoughts about the issue and your suggestions to ppinfo@presspubs. com with subject line “LAKER.”

774888

651.485.1555 www.martyrathmanner.com

Stay on board

The Cargo Manifest Port of Call RENOVATION OVER WRECKING BALL p. 1C - 5C

Riggings CROSS COUNTRY TRACK WELCOMES ALL p. 7A - 8A

Winterized issue of The LAKER

Fishery ICE FISHING A TIMEHONORED TRADITION p. 1B - 4B

Port of Call CONSERVATION DISTRICT p. 5A

Preserving

White Bear Lake Shore Leave LAKER CALENDAR p. 9A - 10A

Welcome to this winterized issue of The LAKER. Hopefully, your boat, dock and lake gear are winterized and tucked away for spring. With fall water levels lower, some props were in need of attention after bumping into unknown hazards. Those who spend time cross-country skiing on the hard water shores of White Bear Lake will enjoy learning more about Mike and Cheryl Plumb’s volunteer trail grooming enterprise. The couple is responsible for keeping the Nordic track in ship shape. Those who go off-track on other lakes or trails come to appreciate these groomers' hard work. Learn how Plumbs do it on pages 7A, 8A. Whether you are a flag-chasing dead stick ice angler, or one who likes to make candles while jigging on these waters, check out the wisdom of local ice junkies Aiden Johnson, Tom Fleming, Dustin Carlson and “Tackle” Terry Tuma on pages 1B to 4B. Their advice might improve your fish taco-sized catch. See how Sue and Ash Keswani chose renovation over a wrecking ball for their classic island home on pages 1C to 5C. Before you dock your reading glasses, make sure to let us know what you think about The LAKER. Email ppinfo@ presspubs.com. From our crew to your crew, we hope you find The LAKER the newest summer (and winter) essential. What do you think about this issue of The LAKER? Tell our crew at ppinfo@presspubs.com. Cover photo of the Keswani home, built in 1887, has more than 4,800 square feet, a four-stall garage and sits on almost an acre. by Paul Dols | Press Publications

GALLEY PICKLED PIKE & MORE p. 7C

WHITE BEAR

L KER

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

LOG BOOK ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼

1950: An aerial view over White Bear Lake, circa 1950, shows ice fishing contest participants arranged in a star pattern on the ice. The image is part of a group of photos labeled LeMire photos.

1950: Anglers gather on White Bear Lake for an ice fishing contest dated circa 1950. The image is part of a group of photos labeled LeMire photos – people.

4A THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

Photos Courtesy of the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society 1994: One of the ice blocks that was used to construct the Winterfest 1994 Ice Palace included a frozen Walleye chasing a pop can.

INFORMATION FOR LAKE USERS, AREA RESIDENTS, LAKESHORE PROPERTY OWNERS

Preserving White Bear Lake for Future Generations It's Now the Law to 'Keep it Clean' on Ice! New for the winter of 2023-24 is the “Keep it Clean” law prohibiting the placement of garbage and waste directly on the ice while using an ice fishing house or a vehicle on the ice. The law reads as follows: "A person using a shelter, a motor vehicle, or any other conveyance on the ice of state waters may not deposit garbage, rubbish, cigarette filters, debris from fireworks, offal, the body of a dead animal, litter, sewage, or any other waste outside the shelter, motor vehicle, or conveyance unless the

material is: (1) placed in a container that is secured to the shelter, motor vehicle, or conveyance; and (2) not placed directly on the ice or in state waters.” A violation of this law is a petty misdemeanor, subject to a civil penalty of $100 for each violation. This law was pushed through the legislature by a grass-roots coalition called Keep It Clean Minnesota. This led to a new statute that was signed into law in May 2023, and it is now in effect across the state. For more info see https://keepitcleanmn.org/

Winter Threat to White Bear Lake Water Quality: Chloride (salt) Pollution Chloride pollution is a growing problem in metro area lakes and streams. Many lakes are impaired with chloride pollution and more are at risk. Road salt, residential salting of sidewalks and driveways, water softeners, and some agricultural activities are adding chloride to our environment every year. Only one teaspoon of salt permanently pollutes five gallons of water. Once salt dissolves, it isn’t feasible to remove it from a lake and it continues to accumulate. At this time WBL is not impaired but accumulation remains a threat. The Rice Creek Watershed District created a chart (see below) that shows the increase of chloride levels in White Bear Lake from 1988-2023.

Winter Events on White Bear Lake Other Events:

CALL TO ACTION

How You Can Help Protect WBL 1. Limit the amount of salt you use in the winter and sweep up excess salt. 2. Join us for the 2024 Ice Clean Up on March 9, 2024. 3. Stay up to date: follow us on social media. 4. Adopt a storm drain in your neighborhood at mn.adopt-adrain.org.

Watch Out for Thin Ice This Winter!

Impact of Low Water Levels on Your Dock

• Shovel or snow blow before using salt. • Know the right temperature for the salt you are using- most salt does not work in temperatures less than 15 degrees. • Sweep up extra salt. • Don’t over-apply - one coffee mug of salt is enough for a 20 ft driveway.

Since 2004, the annual White Bear Lake Clean Up Event has been co-sponsored by the White Bear Lake Conservation District (WBLCD) and Mahtomedi Scout Troop 89. In that time, a total of nearly 1,500 community volunteers have removed about 7,000 pounds of trash that would have otherwise sunk into the lake. See the WBLCD website and the White Bear Press for details as that date approaches.

Running an aeration device that keeps ice from forming on part of the lake requires a special permit from the state DNR. There are many rules described on the DNR website under “Lake Aeration Program.” In addition to getting a permit from the DNR and following all DNR rules, please call or email the WBLCD office if you have a permit, or plan to obtain one from the DNR for lake deicing or aeration.

Almost every year, someone or someone’s car or snowmobile goes through the ice on White Bear Lake. While most of these accidents are not fatal, the average number of thin ice fatalities across Minnesota is 3.4 per year since 2017. Children are especially at risk. Don’t let this happen to you or someone in your family!

Here are a few ways to help:

Save the Date for the 2024 Annual Ice Clean Up: March 9, 2024

Aerating to Keep Water Open in the Ice? Let Us Know!

• January 27, 2024 - Polar Plunge-Special Olympics MN fundraiser (www.plungemn.org) • February 2-3, 2024 - Bear'ly Open-White Bear Area Food Shelf fundraiser (www.bearlyopen.org)

Permit Required for Large On-Ice Events

On-ice events expected to attract more than 50 participants and spectators require a permit from the WBLCD. The filing fee is $60 but is usually waived for charitable events. Applications should be submitted at least two months in advance of the event date; permit applications may be found on the WBLCD website under “Rules and Permits.”

Residential single and multi-user docks on White Bear Lake must be located within the boundaries of the Authorized Dock Use Area (ADUA), which is defined by the WBLCD as an area extending into the lake from the Ordinary High Water Level (OHWL) a distance of 200 feet. However, the ADUA may extend up to 300 feet to reach water that is at least four feet deep. Under conditions of low water levels, this may affect the length and placement of residential docks. Remember to talk with your neighbors to make sure changes in dock length or placement do not interfere with their access to the lake.

LET’S CONNECT

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, check out our website or contact the WBLCD office Website: wblcd.org Facebook: “WBLCD” www. facebook.com/WhiteBearLakeConservationDistrict

Instagram: “WBL Conservation District” Phone: (651) 429-8520 E-mail: office@wblcd.org

wblcd.org | wblcd@msn.com | 651.429.8520

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER 5A

THE ROPES ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼

BRAVO ZULU (GOOD JOB)

Contributed

Four graduating seniors pass sailing review from White Bear Lake Sailing School including Parker Ziegler from Mounds Park Academy, Elin Reigstad from White Bear Lake Area High School, Stella DeMars from Mahtomedi High School and Mason Schneider (not pictured) from Mahtomedi High School. The sailing school maintains a fleet of Optimist and Club 420 sailboats at White Bear Lake Yacht Club. Sailors learn basic boat parts, rigging, how to sail with others. Graduates received congratulations for a job well done and White Bear Yacht Club burgees at a Boatworks Commons banquet.

FULL-DAY

SUMMER CAMPS

10 Social-Emotional Benefits of Sailing Grit

FOR AGES 5-17

Confidence

RACE TEAMS

Friendship

Teamwork

FOR AGES 8-18

Sportsmanship

PRIVATE LESSONS

Patience

FOR ALL AGES

Learning to Lose Responsibility Managing Emotions Discipline Source: Scuttlebutt Sailing News

whitebearsailingschool.com

6A THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

792693

Space fills quickly! Register January 1!

◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ RIGGINGS

Photos by Mike Plumb | Contributed Mike Plumb's home-designed ski track groomer creates the track shown above.

A GOOD PAIR OF SKI TRAIL GROOMERS By Jackie Bussjaeger Staff Writer

In the more than 25 years Mike and Cheryl Plumb have lived in White Bear Lake, they have given back to the community through numerous volunteer efforts, such as coaching school sports and robotics teams, as well as fundraising for nonprofit United Way. In recent years, their contributions to the community have included a new wintertime tradition: a 3.5-mile groomed cross country ski track on the ice of White Bear Lake. Mike Plumb has been a lifelong cross-country skier, and before retiring, worked as a mechanical engineer at 3M, designing and manufacturing medical devices. With a little extra time on his hands, Plumb thought long and hard about how one of the expensive track groomers used on public courses could be built at home. “I found some ideas for how that could be made, and I’m on the third iteration now,” Plumb said. The design

involves a pair of 2x6 boards, some creative sawing, wood screws, and a

couple concrete blocks to give it some weight. A 4’x4’ metal spiked “drag

Mike and Cheryl Plumb plan to once again offer their homemade cross country ski track on White Bear Lake, probably beginning in January 2024.

harrow” is pulled ahead of the plywood tracker to rough up the snow and break up chunks. The angled piece of plywood then helps distribute the snow evenly ahead of the tracker blocks. Plumb tows it behind a snowmobile to refresh the track on a weekly basis. The route stays fairly close to shore, passing near Lion’s Park, the VFW, and looping around Manitou Island by crossing under the island bridge. Occasionally the path is extended to Birchwood along the south shore of the lake. The track is particularly good for beginners, Plumb said, since there is no challenging incline. “You’re never going faster than you can really handle,” he said. “Around Manitou Island, usually it’s less windy there, and there’s some pretty neat scenery around the island. I’ve met a lot of really nice people who are very appreciative to us for doing it, because winter’s always a tough time to keep your exercise up.” CONTINUED ON 8A

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

Photos by Mike Plumb | Contributed The ski track around White Bear Lake stays close to shore to minimize traffic and wind shear.

SKI TRAIL GROOMERS | FROM 7A This publicly-accessible track also requires no ski pass with a fee, and may be close enough to home to provide a convenient alternative for anyone who would prefer not to load up the car and drive to a park, he said. Plumb anticipates that he will begin grooming the track in January, when the ice is good and thick and there is plenty of snow to work with. He’s not certain yet, but hopes at some point to offer a small refreshment station on weekends, stocked with hot water, coffee and hot cocoa. The lake has many uses in the wintertime, and it’s a shared public resource. Plumb only asks that anyone encountering the track on foot be courteous and not walk on the groomed portion. “I do groom a little bit on the side so they can have a crushed down area to walk without stepping on the tracks,” he said. Plumb posts updates and typically grooms about once a week, sometimes a little more frequently after heavy snowfall or high winds. ◼

Mike and Cheryl Plumb plan to once again offer their homemade cross country ski track on White Bear Lake. This sled bottom creates the groomed track.

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◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ SHORE LEAVE

LAKER CALENDAR JANUARY Lake Links Association Holiday Walk and Open House

When: 5-6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 5 Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center Details: Take a stroll along the newly lighted trail segment, north to Streetcar Park and the decorated covered bridge, followed by hot beverages, snacks, and a drawing for a fat tire bike. Contact: lakelinks.net/post/holidaystroll-open-house

information online. Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

Bear'ly Open

Skate with Bears

When: 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday. Feb. 3 Where: White Bear Lake County Park at Ramsey Beach Details: Golf-on-ice fundraiser for the White Bear Area Food Shelf. Players use golf clubs, hockey sticks, tennis rackets, or anything else that can propel a tennis ball through an 18-hole course. Games, food, beverages and activities along the way. Registration required. Contact: bearlyopen.org

When: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28 Where: Hippodrome, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake Details: Free open ice skating for all ages. BYO skates; no hockey sticks. Contact: whitebear.ce.eleyo.com

FEBRUARY Community Dance

When: 6:30 Friday, Feb. 2 Where: Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn, 4940 Highway 61 N. Details: Dance to the sounds of Wildcat Combo while supporting the Bear'ly Open fundraiser for the food shelf. Free hors d'oeuvres, cash bar and contests. Buy tickets online. Contact: bearlyopen.org

Winery Wonderland at 7 Vines

When: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12; and select Fridays and Saturdays in Jan. & Feb. Where: 7 Vines Vineyard, Dellwood Details: Explore the vineyard on snowshoes. Guided walk lined with ice luminaries. Live music, bonfire, mulled wine, and Bingo. Registration information online. Contact: mywahooadventures.com

Bear'ly Open

Winter Farmer's Market

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13 Where: Normandy Park Education Center, 2484 E. County Road F, White Bear Lake Details: More than 20 vendors will sell locally-grown and handcrafted items and gifts; classes also offered. Food trucks on site. Indoor event. Contact: forksinthedirt.com

World Snow Sculpting Championship

When: Jan. 17-21 Where: Lowell Park, Stillwater Details: Competition brings top snow sculptors from around the world. Walk through the finished sculptures, visit the indoor market and concessions tent, and listen to live music at the block party Saturday fron 6-9 p.m. Details online. Contact: worldsnowsculptingstillwatermn.com

Minneapolis Boat Show

When: Jan. 18-21 Where: Minneapolis Convention Center Details: Wide selection of boats, attractions, and other features for all ages. Tickets available online. Contact: minneapolisboatshow.com

File

Resorts Revisited

When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23 Where: Zoom Details: Program takes deep dive into White Bear's Golden Resort Era and what it would have been like to vacation in the area in the late 19th century. Free; register online. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

St. Paul Winter Carnival

When: Jan 25-Feb. 3 Where: Various locations throughout St. Paul Details: Oldest Winter Festival in the United States includes family-friendly activities such as a Light the Park event at Rice Park, ice carvings and snow sculpture competitions, Grande Day Parade, Fire & Ice Run, appearances by the Royal Family and Vulcon Krewe, and more. See schedule of events online. Contact: wintercarnival.com

Gateway State Trail Candlelight Walk

When: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 Where: Gateway State Trail at

Stillwater Road/Wildwood Elementary School Details: Two-mile walk on a trail lit with hundreds of luminaries. Bonfires, hot beverages and marshmallows for roasting. Leashed dogs welcome. Contact: 651-231-6968 or Linda. Radimecky@state.mn.us.

Polar Plunge

When: Noon Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Avenue Details: The White Bear Lake Plunge has raised over $3M for Special Olympics Minnesota in its 22-year history. Sign up as an individual or team. Contact: plungemn.org

Kenwood Symphony Orchestra

When: 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi Details: Orchestral instruments and musicians recreate the story of Peter, his animal friends, and the cunning wolf in a performance for all ages. Ticket

The Older the Better Vintage Sled Show

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3 Where: Blacksmith Lounge and Broaster, 17205 Forest Boulevard N., Hugo Details: See old sleds and support the Stillwater Snowmobile Club. Free admission for spectators. Food, drinks, and raffle tickets available for purchase. Contact: stillwatersnowmobileclub.org

Winter Farmer's Market

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 Where: Normandy Park Education Center, 2484 E. County Road F, White Bear Lake Details: More than 20 vendors will sell locally-grown and handcrafted items and gifts; classes also offered. Food trucks on site. Indoor event. Contact: forksinthedirt.com

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

SHORE LEAVE ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼

LAKER CALENDAR Horseshoes on Ice

When: 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17 Where: White Bear Lake VFW, 4496 Lake Avenue S. Details: Two-person teams can participate in the annual fundraiser. Call to register in advance. Contact: 651-426-4944

Classical Chamber Music Spotlight

When: 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake Details: Performance by hometown favorite and award-winning pianist and composer Michael Djupstrom and other prominent musicians. Tickets information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

Best Practices for Pollinators Winter Webinar

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27-Thursday, Feb. 29 Where: Online Details: Three days of live presentations with experts on sound land practices that promote pollinators, climate resistance, clean water and lands, and more. Registration information online. Contact: pollinatorfriendly.org

MARCH Ice Shelter removal deadline

When: 11:59 p.m. Monday, March 4 Where: All local inland lakes Details: Dark houses, fish houses,and portables must be off the ice by the deadline. After this date, shelters may remain on the ice between midnight and one hour before sunrise only when occupied or attended. Contact: dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/ shelter.html

Northwest Sportsman's Show

When: March 14-17 Where: Minneapolis Convention Center Details: See hundreds of boats on display, a wide selection of gear, and and abundance of must-see attractions for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Details and ticket information online.

Contact: discoverboating.com/ resources/northwest-sportshow

Sap to Syrup

When: Noon-2:30 p.m. March 16 & 23 Where: Tamarack Nature Center, White Bear Township Details: Tap maple trees, boil sap, enjoy maple crafts and treats, and take a self-guided tour. All ages. Registration required. Contact: ramseycounty.us/residents/ parks-recreation/tamarack-naturecenter

Annual White Bear Lake Cleanup When: Saturday, March 9 Where: Frozen White Bear Lake Details: Local Scouting groups partner with the White Bear Lake Conservation District, area Geocachers, and community volunteers to pick up trash on the frozen lake before the ice melts. Becomes a landbased clean-up if ice-out is early. Contact: wblcd.org

A Billy Joel State of Mind

When: 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake Details: Mick Sterling leads a tribute concert featuring the hits of Billy Joel. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

The Music of Patsy Cline with Joyann Parker

When: 2 p.m. Sunday, March 24 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake Details: Performance features hits by Patsy Cline weaved in with stories about her life. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

APRIL A Cappella Showcase

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, April 6 Where: Chautauqua Fine Arts Center, Mahtomedi Details: Concert features A Cappella groups from Mahtomedi Public Schools, the community, local colleges, and universities. Ticket information online. Contact: wildwoodartistseries.com

Trash to Treasure Day

When: All day Saturday, April 27 Where: White Bear Lake and White Bear Township Details: All city and Township residents can put unwanted items marked “free” at the end of their driveways for treasure seekers to pick up. Contact: whitebearlake.org/ee/page/ trash-treasure-day

10A THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

File

MAY White Bear Lake Cleanup Day

When: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 4 Where: 4200 Hoffman Road (former public works site), White Bear Lake Details: Get rid of unwanted items for a small fee. Household hazardous waste is not accepted. Proof of residency required. See list of accepted items and fees online. Contact: whitebearlake.org

Minnesota Fishing Opener

When: Saturday, May 11 Where: Minnesota lakes, rivers and streams Details: Kickoff to the walleye, sauger, and northern pike fishing seasons. Contact: dnr.state.mn.us

Ramsey County Master Gardeners Spring Plant Sale

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 18 Where: Aldrich Ice Arena, 1850 White Bear Avenue, Maplewood Details: Purchase annual flowers, natives and perennials, vegetables, tomatoes, herbs, houseplants and more. Contact: ramseymastergardeners.org

Washington County Master Gardener's Plant Sale and Expo

When: Saturday, May 18 Where: Washington County Fairgrounds, Lake Elmo Details: Hundreds of varieties of plants for sale, diagnostic clinic, educational displays, garden market, ask-agardener. Contact: washingtoncountymg.org

CLEAN-UP CELEBRATING 20 YEARS White Bear Lake clean-up is celebrating 20 years Saturday, March 9, 2024. Be sure to participate on its big birthday by bringing your crew that day. Organizer and scoutmaster Jim Schuster has seen it all during the past 20 years – from early spring thaws, a global pandemic and more. White Bear Lake Conservation District board member Scott Costello shares, “I have been working with Jim Schuster and his scouts for nearly a decade. The clean-up is invaluable not only for the trash removed that would otherwise pollute the lake, but also to educate and raise awareness of the need to protect the lake for future generations. The families and kids who participate learn a lesson in the importance of conservation of our natural resources.” Watch the White Bear Press before the event in March to learn more about the history of the event, unique finds and plans for March 9, 2024.

The 20-year anniversary of the clean-up is March 9, 2024. Join to make it the best.

File photos Among the debris in 2023, a tire, a shopping cart, wheelbarrow and bicycle parts.

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JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

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12A THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

WHITE BEAR

L KER Vol. 1 • No. 4

SECTION B

ICE FISHING ON BALD EAGLE AND WHITE BEAR LAKE

A TIME-HONORED TRADITION By Jackie Bussjaeger Staff Writer

Ice fishing has been a part of White Bear Lake’s history for as long as people have lived on its shores. Indigenous Americans relied on spearfishing through the winter months, and later, immigrants from the Old World brought their angling traditions to the Minnesota ice. These days we may hold mixed opinions about the palatability of lutefisk, but most ice anglers agree that White Bear and Bald Eagle Lake—with their rich supply of varied panfish, aggressive pike, and coveted walleye—remain some of the best ice fishing lakes in the Twin Cities metro. These lakes draw anglers of all talents and abilities, and ice fishing hooks them early in life. Mahtomedi resident Aiden Johnson knows it better than most—he’s launched his own fishing guide service before even leaving high school. A junior at Hill Murray, Johnson lives on the lakes and spends his summer break running Aiden’s Angling Guide Service. But Johnson spends the winter months on the water as well. He and his family have lived on the shore of White Bear Lake for about 10 years, which has given him easy access to the waters and instilled a love of fishing almost immediately. “It moved from being a hobby to me realizing this could be my business; I could share what I love about being on the water,” Johnson said. He started off guiding friends and family, but launched Aiden’s Angling Guide Service officially in March 2023. For him, ice fishing is special because it’s very accessible for beginners, and rewarding to advanced anglers alike. “You can ice fish with almost no gear, or a lot of gear, and there’s a lot of in between,” he said. “A lot of people have depth finders, but the nice part about ice fishing is you don’t need any of that stuff. You can do it with practically nothing but rod and reel, there’s really a lot of cool places, it’s kind of like a chooseyour-own-path, as you grow more, as far as gear goes, there’s no limit.” When it comes to fancy gadgetry, Tom Fleming of Bald Eagle Lake likes to keep up with the latest in ice fishing tech. Fleming grew up on Bald Eagle Lake, and has fished both Bald Eagle and White Bear every winter for more than 40 years. Every year he provides guide services to friends and family, and sometimes volunteers his guide services for local charities such as H20 for Life.

“I’m definitely on the more advanced end with technology,” Fleming said. “I have all the bells and whistles.” Fleming uses these gadgets as part of a “work smarter, not harder” approach to ice fishing the lake— scouting hotspots while the water is still open. “The more work you can do to find spots on open water and transfer to ice spots, the better,” he said. “As opposed to the old-school methods where you’re just drilling a bunch of holes until you think you find it. Now you can drop numerous waypoints in 5 minutes, and it gives you an advantage. When I find a good

Aiden Johnson | Contributed While Hill Murray junior Aiden Johnson is known for his open water muskie guiding services, he also spends winters fishing the depths of frozen White Bear Lake.

weed edge, I can drop a waypoint I know is 5 feet away from the weed edge, or one that’s a circle or 10-yard spot in the middle of weed edges just because it’s so precise nowadays.” When the ice is thick enough to drill holes, Fleming breaks out his Humminbird Helix 9 live scope. “It’s live sonar where you can actually see fish moving, see your bait moving as you jig it,” he said. “You can just drop it in various holes and see if there are crappie schools, and move on if there are not. It’s one of those technology processes that are going to save us a lot of time.” Using live scope technology doesn’t have to break the bank, Fleming said—smaller screens in the Helix line are priced in the $200-$300 range. “Even with that you could see all the map contour and structure on the lakes,” Fleming said. You can mark those spots so when you’re on the ice you can find them easily, and that’s a huge advantage over years past.” Hauling in a record fish isn’t the only measure of success on the frozen lake—for many it’s about the camaraderie and time spent in participating in a historic tradition. White Bear and Bald Eagle are popular lakes for friends and family to spend a long day fishing. Each winter, the lakes become populated with miniature fishing villages, with their own culture and customs. Dustin Carlson, owner of Carlson Chiropractic, has spent more than 40 years ice fishing on the local lakes. Carlson enjoys being on the ice with his four children, as well as connecting and catching up with friends. “It’s a lot of family time; we love being out on the ice on a beautiful 40-degree January day, throwing a football around, putting some tip-ups out, or being with your fishing buddies, hanging out, catching up on the work week, solving certain problems, and maybe catching a couple eating-size walleye,” Carlson said. Carlson observed what many other anglers have echoed—the accessibility of lake activities is better than ever. Modern portable shelters make a more comfortable setting than the overturned buckets of the past, and elaborate Ice Castles can even turn a day on the ice into a 5-star luxury experience. “There’s an abundance of northerns, which makes for fun during-the-day action,” Carlson said. “If little kids are fishing and catching fish all day, they’re going to like the sport. If you find the edge of weed bed, CONTINUED ON 2B

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

FISHERY ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ ICE FISHING | FROM 1B you’re going to catch a lot of pike and sunfish and that is super entertaining for the kids. You might have someone who wants to fish the rest of their life.” Above all, local ice anglers are appreciative of the ice fishing culture on both White Bear and Bald Eagle Lakes. “There’s community out here,” Johnson observed. “Lots of ice houses forming towns, like little cities on the lake. The fishing itself isn’t more special than any other place, but it’s just kind of rooted in White Bear Lake culture to go out and ice fish in the wintertime. When I fish in western Wisconsin and northern Minnesota, sometimes I’m the only one out there. It’s really unique how much of a tradition it is for people.” ◼

Tom Fleming | Contributed Mark Domschot, Katy Domschot, Tony Lammers, Carol Hall and David Hall (sitting) having a blast on the ice.

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you’re not having luck with what you’re using, it might be a sign to switch up and try something else. “Dependent on the fish you’re pursuing, you might want to be using tungsten jigs. Some real small spoons are another tool to use, or using live bait. The new approach is using silver wigglers, or waxworms. I’ve done so many years of experimentation, one hour they want wiggles, another hour they want waxies. We have to keep an open mind and keep on experimenting.”

“TACKLE” TERRY TUMA

ICE FISHING ADVICE FROM AN EXPERT Among the seasoned experts in Minnesota ice fishing is outdoor communicator “Tackle” Terry Tuma, who shared a bit of advice for anglers this ice fishing season.

Clothing

“It’s so important for us to stay warm. If we don’t stay warm our brain sends a message to our body to shiver. When we start to shiver it really does affect our fishing concentration. I see so many people out there shivering, they’re cold, sitting on a bucket freezing, and your concentration is not there.” The key is to dress in layers. Some opt to wear specialty ice suits with floats sewn in, which can help keep wearers safe in thin ice emergency situations. “If you’re out there and say you’re cutting holes and you start to perspire, you’ve got to cool down. Unzip your coat, take headgear off, and keep moisture wicked away from your body,” Tuma said.

Where to Fish Terry Tuma | Contributed Finding a good weed edge can provide an exciting afternoon of panfish action on White Bear and Bald Eagle lakes.

“The new approach is using silver wigglers or waxworms... Keep an open mind and keep experimenting” Terry Tuma Expert Outdoorsman

Equipment and Technology

The rod and reel are essential—they should match the species of fish, and also the mood of the fish, Tuma explained. “When you have finicky fish due to fishing pressure, you want to use very small jigs and reels, 1-2 lb test line. If we don’t protect that line, we’re going to lose the fish.” Though many people still ice fish the old-fashioned way, using depth finders has become an increasingly popular option to give anglers a closer look at what’s happening beneath the ice. “Dependent on budget, there are a couple major tools I recommend for electronics,” Tuma said. “I use a depth finder, marking fish in the water column. Some days they’re 6 inches above the bottom, the next day 6 inches below the ice. The baits have to be in the zone where the fish are at.”

Bait and Lures

Experimentation is key when it comes to your choice in bait or lure. If

Terry Tuma | Contributed Expert outdoorsman “Tackle” Terry Tuma has years of experience fishing frozen lakes across the state.

“Find your location with your electronics,” Tuma said. “You want structure and weed edges. If you haven’t caught any fish in 20-30 minutes, and there’s no sign of anything happening, then we have to move. The portable ice fishing shelters are very popular and very advisable as a way to keep warm. It makes such a big difference in catching fish. The American consumer thinks bigger is better, but when they find out it’s heavy and hard to load, they go back and buy a one-man shelter. The fish house should meet the demands of the angler.”

What You Should Know

“Be very, very knowledgeable about weather and fishing conditions, and fishing pressure,” Tuma said. “Being on the ice before daybreak or after evening after fishing pressure has really subsided is best. Stay away from the crowd. Noise is such a factor, it’s just unbelievable. They will either not bite or they will relocate. Weather is another big factor. If you have a severe cold front, you will be anticipating a real tough bite.” The two best qualities in an ice angler are knowledge, and patience, Tuma added. “Pay attention to what the fish are telling you. If you’re using a specific jigging action or lure of different color, and they’re not interested in it, they’re telling us we have to use something different. We don’t want to make fishing hard work, but you’re going to have to make an effort in catching fish if you’re going to be successful.” ◼

Hennepin County Library | Contributed This aerial photo of more than 2,000 fishermen taking part in an ice fishing contest on White Bear Lake was chosen as the "Picture of the Week" for the current issue of Life magazine. Photo was taken by Dwight Miller (not pictured) and originally published in the Minneapolis Daily Times on Feb. 2, 1948.

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

FISHERY ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ “The more work you can do to find spots on open water and transfer to ice spots, the better. As opposed to the old-school methods where you’re just drilling a bunch of holes until you think you find it. Now you can drop numerous waypoints in five minutes, and it gives you an advantage. When I find a good weed edge, I can drop a waypoint I know is five feet away from the weed edge, or one that’s a circle or 10-yard spot in the middle of weed edges just because it’s so precise nowadays.” Contributed

Tom Fleming Ice Angler

Tom Fleming catches a walleye from his ice shack on White Bear Lake.

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◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ LOG BOOK

PREDICTING WBL ICE OUT For White Bear Lake lovers, the official 'iceout date' is practically a holiday. The tradition of calling ice out began with Benny “the barber” Schmalzbauer, followed by Jan Holtz Kraemer who took the reins in 2001. In 2022, the responsibility passed to Mike Parenteau. Beginning in late March, you can count on many lake homeowners keeping watch of the conditions in various parts of the lake and sharing their predictions. The White Bear Press even holds an annual contest to guess the correct ice-out date. For those who like dates, average ice out is April 14. March 16 in 2016 remains the earliest on record and May 4 in both 1950 and 2018 the latest.

White Bear Lake ice out 1928 -2023 April 2, 1928 April 4, 1929 April 4, 1930 April 7, 1931 April 11, 1932 April 18, 1933 April 8, 1934 April 10, 1935 April 23, 1936 April 19, 1937 March 31, 1938 April 16, 1939 April 25, 1940 April 13, 1941 April 6, 1942 April 13, 1941 April 6, 1942 April 13, 1943 April 15, 1944 March 29, 1945 March 30, 1946 April 17, 1947 April 10, 1948 April 12, 1949 May 4, 1950 April 29, 1951 April 21, 1952

April 10, 1953 April 17, 1954 April 11, 1955 April 21, 1956 April 20, 1957 April 11, 1958 April 12, 1959 April 13, 1960 April 14, 1961 April 25, 1962 April 11, 1963 April 13, 1964 May 2, 1965 April 9, 1966 April 9, 1967 March 31, 1968 April 17, 1969 April 17, 1970 April 16, 1971 April 25, 1972 April 4, 1973 April 22, 1974 April 28, 1975 April 7, 1976 April 11, 1977 April 17, 1978 April 23, 1979

April 19, 1980 March 29, 1981 April 19, 1982 April 14, 1983 April 14, 1984 April 12, 1985 April 8, 1986 March 24, 1987 April 7, 1988 April 17, 1989 April 4, 1990 April 7, 1991 April 10, 1992 April 19, 1993 April 6, 1994 April 3, 1995 April 24, 1996 April 18, 1997 April 3, 1998 April 2, 1999 March 21, 2000 April 19, 2001 April 15, 2002 April 11, 2003 April 7, 2004 April 9, 2005 April 9, 2006

April 1, 2007 April 23, 2008 April 11, 2009 April 1, 2010 April 13, 2011 March 19, 2012 May 1, 2013 April 23, 2014 April 2, 2015 March 16, 2016 March 23, 2017 May 4, 2018 April 18, 2019 April 2, 2020 March 29, 2021 April 20, 2022 April 18, 2023

Scan for 2024 Ice-Out Contest

File Benny Schmalzbauer passes the torch to Jan Holtz Kramer in 2001.

Paul Dols | Press Publications Jan Holtz Kramer passes the torch to Mike Parenteau in 2022.

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8B THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

WHITE BEAR

L KER Vol. 1 • No. 4

SECTION C

ISLAND HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE

RENOVATION OVER WRECKING BALL Debra Neutkens

By Debra Neutkens

instructions regarding the island property. Sue and husband Ash got first dibs on its purchase. The Keswanis had been renting the home from Ann since Every time Sue Keswani (nee Tousley) drives over 2017 after she moved to Waverly Gardens and she the Manitou bridge to her home, she marvels at the wanted to keep it in the family. peaceful, natural beauty of the island, a place she’s The design of the house was typical of the era, Ash lived since high school. “You almost feel like you pointed out. “Frank Lloyd Wright called the design a don’t deserve it,” she said. box next to a box next to a box,” he explained. “We Sue’s parents, Herb and Ann Tousley, bought the wanted to modernize with an open floor plan and island home in 1973 when she was 15. She recalls more windows.” her dad asking her mom if she wanted to go see the The couple admitted to agonizing over the house, built in 1887. They were living in Cottage Park decision to tear down Ann’s beloved house and start at the time. over or do an extensive renovation, including major “He’d heard it was going up for sale so they went plumbing and HVAC upgrades. Both options were costly. That’s where builder/remodeler Len Pratt to look at it. Mom was mesmerized. Dad asked her, Pratt Homes | Contributed comes in to their story. ‘do you like it?’ Her reply, ‘what’s not to like?’” Sue The sunny living room above offers a great view of the Sue decided to call Pratt for his opinion. They recalled. lake. Shiplap paneling in the dining area is original but didn’t know each other but connected immediately And that’s how the love affair with the 19th century, workers moved it from another room. Builder Len Pratt multi-level home started 50 years ago. of Pratt Homes assisted homeowners during the sevenCONTINUED ON 3C When Ann passed in 2021, her will gave specific month renovation. Staff Writer

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2C THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

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◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ PORT OF CALL ISLAND HOMEOWNERS | FROM 1C

Debra Neutkens Sue and Ash Keswani in the kitchen of their renovated island home.

when Sue learned Pratt was a good friend of her late brother Herb III. “It evolved from there,” she said. Pratt recommended the Keswanis keep the house. They agreed and couldn’t be happier with their decision, despite a hefty price tag just shy of $1 million. A new home, however, would have cost at least twice that. Dark hardwood floors were replaced with hardy hickory, a tasteful, bright new kitchen has a great view of the lake, and the living space no longer consists of boxy rooms, thanks to the removal of several walls. The home has 45 new windows. “The result is exponentially more light,” observed Ash. Always a proponent of preservation versus demolition, Pratt complimented the couple for believing in the home’s potential. “I build new, but I like historic context,” Pratt said. “I felt

“The result is exponentially more light.” Ash Keswani Island Homeowner

Debra Neutkens The staircase is original to the 135-year-old house.

Contributed The tennis-playing Tousley family consisted of Herb Jr., Ann, Rick and Sue. Rick also lives on Manitou Island. An older brother, Herb III, was away at school when the photo was taken.

maybe it was time to renew this home and let it breathe. Sue and Ash had to talk through it, but they came along. They believed.” The tri-level house has five bathrooms and seven bedrooms, two of which have alternative uses, one is an exercise room and one is Sue’s art studio. There is also an upstairs office for Ash, who is a marketing executive for a French medical device company. A game room with built-in bar was left intact, as was its emerald green felt wallpaper. An elevator shaft also remains, although barricaded for safety, for future use when stairs become burdensome. Residential elevators are becoming more common, Pratt said. One of the project’s main challenges was just leveling the floor. “We could watch a ball roll along the floor and change directions,” Ash said. Remodeling a home takes “strength and courage,” maintained Pratt. “It’s a collaborative effort by a special team of people.” What does he think of the end product? “This is what we hoped to accomplish.” Added Sue, “And it’s not for the meek. But Len is very good at what he does.” “It’s a fine line to remodel versus tear down,” Sue said. “We didn’t know if we could do it with this house.” If she has any words of advice, it would be to do a project of this scale under the age of 55. CONTINUED ON 4C

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

PORT OF CALL ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼

The kitchen offers a great gathering space with ocean blue wall tile, quartz countertops and lots of light.

ISLAND HOMEOWNERS | FROM 3C “I just got my hip working after two months of physical therapy,” admitted Sue. “There was so much stuff in this house and a lot of going up and down stairs.” They also had to move out for the duration of the seven-month project, renting a home in Birchwood. There were moments of nostalgia when the interior demolition started. “I heard a commotion in the kitchen and went to look,” Sue recalled. “It was already half gone. I said to myself, ‘mom, I hope this is OK, because it’s too late.’” Ann remained in the house after Herb and four of his close friends were killed in a 1977 plane crash during an Alaskan fishing trip. Sue had graduated from White Bear High School and was attending college in Missouri at the time, but returned home to stay with her mother. Herb Tousley was the owner of the Ford dealership on County Road E, now called Auto Nation. The men who died in the crash were all prominent business leaders in the area. “It changed our history and affected so many families,” Sue said. Ann eventually remarried a tax attorney named Ham Luther, who joined her at the island home. “She was happy as could be. I was delighted for her,” said her daughter. Ann was an avid supporter of the arts, according to Sue. To show appreciation for her support, the White Bear CONTINUED ON 5C

4C THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

photos by Debra Neutkens A wall was knocked out to make the foyer more spacious. Hickory floors are featured throughout the main level. The family pets, Lanie and Tia (not pictured), greet visitors at the door.

◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ PORT OF CALL ISLAND HOMEOWNERS | FROM 4C Center for the Arts’ named its store after her: The Ann Tousley Luther Art Shop. When visiting her mother at Waverly Gardens, Sue said Ann would ask her, “Don’t you just love

“If you're lucky enough to live by the lake, you're lucky enough.” unknown

793018

Contributed A young Sue Keswani, then Tousley, shows off her catch on the family’s White Bear Lake dock. She grew up in the Cass Gilbert house in Cottage Park.

792789

Debra Neutkens A custom dog shower in the laundry room accommodates four-legged family members.

the house?” Sue’s answer echoed her mother’s from 1973: “What’s not to like?” The Keswanis hope to keep the house in the family, looking to one of their two sons, Ben or Charlie Keswani, to buy it someday. Time will tell. In the meantime, they no doubt count their blessings as they enjoy the view. “There’s a saying,” Ash said. “‘If you’re lucky enough to live on the lake, you’re lucky enough.’” ◼

JANUARY - MAY 2024 | THE WHITE BEAR LAKER

774908

6C THE WHITE BEAR LAKER | JANUARY - MAY 2024

◼ ◼ ◼ ◼ GALLEY

PICKLED NORTHERN PIKE

WBYC WINTER DRINK RECIPE

NAUGHTY OR NICE SPRITZ

Ingredients:

• 2-3 Northern Pike fish (decent size) • Cold Water • Canning Salt • White Vinegar • Sugar • Pickling Spice • Sliced Onion

• 1 oz. St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur • 1 oz. Gin (Bombay Sapphire) • ½ oz. Blueberry Shrub Fruited Vinegar • (made beforehand with equal parts fruit, vinegar and sugar) • 3 oz. Sparkling Wine • Topped off with sparkling water (Perrier) and light ice

Those who wish to prepare raw pickled fish should first freeze the fish at 0° for 48 hours to avoid broad fish tapeworm, according to the University of Minnesota Extension.

Drink recipe by bartender Steven Richardson, White Bear Yacht Club. Hand model: Sydney Sather

Preparing the Fish:

• In a large bowl, take your fillet of northern and cut into 1 inch cubes. • Place in a big enough bowl the fish can be covered with water. In the bowl, add fish, canning salt (1-2 cups), and cold water. • Refrigerate for 48 hours. • After 48 hours, rinse fish with cold water, clean bowl removing the canning salt. • Put fish back in bowl and cover with white vinegar. • Refrigerate for 48 hours. • After 48 hours, remove fish from vinegar and rinse fish in cold water. • Cover fish in cold water and set aside while making the brine.

Paul Dols | Press Publications

Brine:

• Simmer on stove top - 2 cups of white vinegar, 1/2 - 1 cup of sugar ( pending your sweetness liking), and 2tbsp of pickling spice. • Simmer and stir until sugar dissolves. • Remove once sugar is dissolved and completely cool.

Can in Mason Jars:

• In a mason jar, place a layer of sliced onion, then chunks of fish, layer of sliced onion and then fish until jar is packed. • Fill jar with completely cooled brine. • Seal mason jar and Refrigerate at least 7 days prior to eating. Pickled Northern Pike Recipe by: Brittany and Chaz Dobias. They are a part of First City Guide Service and Breezy Pines Resort and Campground. They lead Open Water Fishing Trips in Bemidji Area, Cass Lake Chain, Leech Lake through First City Guide Service. More information at firstcityguide.com

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Contributed Chaz and Brittany Dobias and their family.

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