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February 2024 Vol. 12 No. 2
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2 THE LOWDOWN
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The Forest Lake Rotary kicks off 2024 with a splash by hosting its annual Winter Plunge on Feb. 17 in Lakeside Memorial Park. Read more about the Plunge on pg. 12.
CONTRIBUTORS
What is your favorite romantic comedy? Forest Lake Area
SHANNON GRANHOLM
Chamber Spotlight
Managing Editor | quadnews@presspubs.com “PS I love you” or “The Proposal”
MADELINE DOLBY Staff Writer | lowdownnews@presspubs.com
Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans The mission of the Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans is to create a stronger community by doing good deeds for our neighbors including spontaneous random acts of kindness and by spreading good-will within our community. Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans encourage people to pay it forward
and to spread kindness to those in the communities in and around Forest
“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”
Lake. In doing so, they have created a model that other towns and communities can adopt as well. Want to get involved?! Volunteer your time and talents with Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans. Monetary donations also accepted on their website www.goodsamaritansfla. com.
LAURIE ERICSON Designer | art@presspubs.com “Murphy’s Romance”
PAUL DOLS
Forest Lake Lake Association The Forest Lake Lake Association was founded in 2007 by residents on Forest Lake in hopes of further protecting and sustaining the lake for all to enjoy. The FLLA’s goal is to educate its residents on how to protect and conserve the lake for future generations as well as to work in conjunction with the City of Forest Lake, The Minnesota DNR and the neighboring Watershed Districts
Photojournalist/Website Editor | photos@presspubs.com
to establish “plans of attack” against invasive species, lake pollution, etc. Want to make a difference in Forest Lake for Forest Lake? Join the FLLA! Membership dues go to fund projects and help communicate with association members and the community. Visit FLLA at www. forestlakelakeassociation.com.
“When Harry met Sally”
TOMMY CHANDLER Multimedia Consultant | lowdown@presspubs.com “Silver Linings Playbook” or “Hitch”
Publisher
Carter Johnson
General Manager
651-464-3200 | ForestLakeChamber.org
Managing Editor
Laurie Ericson
Staff Writer
Photojournalist
Patty Steele
Madeline Dolby
Marketing Director
Multimedia Consultant
Randy Roberts
Designer
Shannon Granholm
Paul Dols
Tommy Chandler
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Scandia author’s novel moves to the big screen Thomas Rumreich, a Scandia author, is looking ahead to seeing his book “Unholy Communion” come to life. Three years after the publication of his first book, he saw it unfold this January in Scandia, Marine and White Bear Lake. A survivor of sexual abuse by a Catholic priest at St. John’s University, Rumreich struggled for quite some time to make sense of what happened to him. He grew up in Grand Rapids and currently lives in Forest Lake. “Those experiences gave me nightmares for years,” said Rumreich, “so it took a fair amount of counseling for me to get to the point where I was like ‘Hey, this is really not my fault.’” The book takes place in Scandia and Marine on St. Croix. The story follows Washington County investigator, Chris Majek. Majek is called in to investigate the murder of a retired priest. He slowly begins to uncover a deeper
plot by a serial killer who continues to confound the investigator and his team. The book pulls the emotions from Rumreich’s past and examines them from the perspective of a forensic investigator. Rumreich began writing the novel in 2015. The book was released in 2020 and the first edition sold out. Before he became an author, Rumreich had a private dental practice in Forest Lake and performed the crime scene and forensic photography for the White Bear Police Department. During his dental career, he worked for the medical examiner and did dental autopsies. This experience allowed him to gain knowledge of the workings of law enforcement and the medical examiner’s officers. “When the book came out, almost immediately a number of people said ‘Gosh, this would make a great movie,” said Rumreich, “but a lot of what happens in the book is going on in the mind of this killer, and that is very difficult to translate into a movie.”
“Unholy Communion” by Thomas Rumreich was released in 2020 by Beaver’s Pond Press in St. Paul.
The screenplay took a little over a year to write. The movie kept morphing and changing to make the book plot fit the film. “It took us a good year to get the screenplay refined to the point where we felt like we could present it,” Rumreich said. “We did two trial runs
A survivor of sexual abuse by a Catholic priest at St. John’s University, Rumreich struggled for quite some time to make sense of what happened to him.
Rumreich grew up in Grand Rapids. He currently lives in Forest Lake near Scandia, where filming took place.
down in St. Paul. We hired actors to say the speaking parts; we didn’t use a set or anything.” It is be an independent film directed by Patrick Coyle, a Minnesota native. Coyle, an award-winning playwright and screenwriter, has directed independent films such as “Into Temptation” and “Joe Somebody.” There were about 30
people at both the first and second trial runs. People were enthused by the film. Filming began at the end of January and will feature local actors from the St. Paul area. “It’s a story that needs to be told,” said Rumreich. “This story I think has just got to be told because people don’t talk about it when they’ve been abused.”
Grant resident writes her first mystery BY MADELINE DOLBY STAFF WRITER
“Quite a few years ago when we were living near the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, I became close friends with Janet Quale, a librarian who encouraged me to write mysteries,” said Judith Johnson. “This caught my interest.” Johnson, a Mahtomedi native, has lived in Grant for the last 33 years with her husband, Jack. She has taught art in public schools, graphic design at the University of Minnesota and a popular creative mystery writing course for several years in the College for Kids program at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls called “It Was a Dark and Stormy Night.” Recently, she published her first mystery called “Death Upon the Wicked Stage,” which is about a community theater troupe putting on a musical at the St. Paul Como Lakeside Pavilion. The play in the book is called “Snow Boat,” and the novel follows a group of actors as they are being targeted by a serial killer. Johnson says that since she is retired and has a background in art, she has had time to paint.
CONTRIBUTED
“Death Upon the Wicked Stage” is Grant resident Judith Johnson’s first published mystery.
She paints mostly landscapes and her “eye” as an artist has helped her to better describe things visually in her writing. “I have been in the summer musicals at Como Park since 1981, first with my kids, and now with my kids and grandkids,” Johnson said. “I wrote this
mystery because I love a good mystery novel myself, and I was inspired by the wonderful people I have worked with in these shows through the years.” Johnson began writing when she was attending Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, where she received an art education degree. Her husband, who was working there at the time, had some literary friends who encouraged her to write. She began writing poetry. Her work can even be found in a couple of poetry anthologies. “I was actively involved with the Loft Literary Center in the 1970s and I was on their first board of directors,” noted. In addition to her first mystery novel, Johnson wrote and illustrated a book of Finnish folktales called “Troll Tales.” “I would like to thank my husband and my daughter, Anne, for their editorial help. I could not have done this book without them!” Johnson said. “Death Upon the Wicked Stage” was published by Kismet Mysteries and went on bookstore shelves at the end of December. It can be purchased online as an e-book or as a hard copy at Barnes & Noble.
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Anthony Healy teaches music to Kindergarten through fifth grade at Afton-Lakeland Elementary in Stillwater and maintains his own private teaching studio. Healy began playing songs by ear on the piano at the age of four, starting with the theme of the movie “Superman.”
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4 THE LOWDOWN
FEBRUARY 2024
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR We can choose
Three years ago, on Jan. 6, supporters of a defeated presidential candidate stormed the capital in an effort to prevent the counting of the Electoral College votes, and this formalized his loss. On that day, I was incredulous. Today, I am worried about the future of the democracy. I thought that we had reached the depths of an unfortunate period in our history, and we would turn toward sanity and stability. But nothing has changed. Politicians have only doubled down on their divisive rhetoric, knowing how effective fear and resentfulness are to their success at the ballot box. They yield to their powerful donors and foreign actors who can win their war by destabilizing democracy. They tell us that we are threatened by our own brown-skinned neighbors, that all that we love about our way of life is ending. This is their tool — in many cases, their only tool — to win elections. And then they go
home. They leave the people of our communities fearful, angry and disgusted. And most often, our anger is not directed toward them and those who pull their strings, but our neighbors. We are at a crossroads, and it is we, the people here in this community, who must be the agents of change. We can reject politicians who use fear and anger to get our votes. We can demand good governance. We can choose candidates who work to solve problems, prioritize constituent needs and believe in the democracy they are sworn to defend. We can be skeptical of all that we see on social media. We can reach out to or neighbors, remembering that we all want the same things for ourselves and our family — love, respect, understanding, a sense of well-being and security. We can choose.
Name: Jenna Anderson Residency: Stillwater Occupation: Therapist
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5. Pegasus Pizzazz Crystals & Mystical Boutique What: Mystical Boutique Where: 834 Lake St. S. Contact: 651-403-0759 About Us: Our crystals and minerals inventory is superb. We offer other metaphysical supplies and are working toward offering an array of mystical decor items.
6. Blaine Brothers Truckaline What: Semi Truck Repair Where: 9515 150th Ave NE., Columbus
Contact: 651-705-9097 About Us: Blaine
Brothers began in 1979 by providing quality, dependable services to the trucking industry. We have been servicing the needs, both urgent and wplanned, of the trucking industry for
over 40 years. We offer 24-hour service, 365 days a year, which includes heavy-duty towing, semi-truck repair and service, semi-trailer repair and service and semi-parts. Our strength is in our exceptional fleet maintenance. Our tow trucks have the authority to run in 48 states and Canada. We are also a full-service dealer for Capacity Spotting tractors, as well as a Caterpillar heavy-duty service center and a Cummins medium-duty service center.
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Contractor Where: 24700 Hazel Ave. Contact: 651-213-0668 About Us: Gregory Contracting is a fullservice residential contractor, serving Forest Lake, Chisago Lakes and the surrounding area for over 20 years. Residential remodeling and contracting have been our family business for over four generations. Now, Gregory Contracting offers familyowned and operated expertise and service to our community.
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The Lowdown Person of the Month
Lowdown Person of the Month is a new feature in the paper and online. To watch the full interview, go to the Lowdown Facebook page or the Press Publications website.
WHATS NEW
Construction will are being considered, Highway 97 begin on Highway including raised median 97 in 2025. reconstruction islands, a multiuse trail Various safety and other pedestrian today to take advantage of this offer! project will kick off Callimprovements. and pedestrian improvements will The proposed(651) trail along 209-1811 in 2025 be made.
Starting in 2025, Highway 97 between I-35 and Highway 61 in Forest Lake will undergo a pavement reconstruction project. Various safety and pedestrian improvements
the south side of Highway 97 would provide a safer place for pedestrians and bicyclists as well as provide access to the Hardwood Creek trail.
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V I N TAGE V I EW F I N DER
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What is your favorite romcom?
A
MINNESOTA REFLECTIONS AND THE STILLWATER PUBLIC LIBRARY | CONTRIBUTED
The Holcombes hosted a Valentine’s Day Party for the church choir at their home at 712 South First Street in Stillwater on Feb. 14 1902.
Rice Creek Trail Association celebrates 40
F
orty years ago, the Rice Creek Trail Association was founded in Circle Pines. The club maintains (clears brush, trims trees, signs, and grooms) about 70 miles of trails in Anoka and Washington Counties, connecting local riders to the towns of Circle Pines, Centerville, Hugo, Forest Lake, Lino Lakes, Ham Lake, Scandia and others. Last year was amazing! Preparing the trails begins in late summer and runs up to the beginning Movers & of December. It is a lot of work. Shakers Some years there isn’t enough Michelle snow to ride Koch locally, and all of the work feels less rewarding. The winter of 2022 brought plenty of snow and it made for one of the best local riding years most can remember. Many members were able to ride the trails they work on which was well-deserved perk for their hard work. Group rides took place several times a week and provided an opportunity for members to get to know each other better and have some fun. This year, the groomers and riders have been sitting idle. But the club is busy getting ready to
host its first vintage snowmobile show on March 2. The opportunity came along to take over the Big Marine Lake Vintage Snowmobile Show and the club voted to seize the chance. As the club president, I attend many vintage shows with my husband and have been wanting the club to host an event. I wanted something that our members could rally around and be proud of, this seems the perfect opportunity. I was pleased with the members’ enthusiastic support of the idea. The show will take place at the Vets Camp on Big Marine Lake and as it has in years past, will feature an ice carousel if weather permits. It takes a crew of eight to nine to create the carousel. “We’re lucky to have one of our members who is also one of our landowners step up to lead this. I’m excited because I love the novelty this brings to the event.” The Vets Camp is happy to host and the past organizers have been more than helpful, making this new adventure less daunting. Over the last couple of years, the club has gotten a refreshed logo and website, added some more modern communication and payment options, and grown in membership. The club is in pretty good shape at 40. As always, fundraising remains an important part of the club. The club is currently selling raffle calendars.
There are a lot of things outside the club’s control. Snowfall for one and poor-mannered riders for another. Like all snowmobile clubs they do their best to educate riders on the importance of staying on the marked trail. Many of Minnesota’s snowmobile trails cross private land, where owners grant permission to the club. That is always in jeopardy when a small percentage of riders abuse the privilege. It can be easy to think no harm can come from riding across an open field. If you ride, you know the attraction. In some cases, there are already crops planted and riding over it pushes the frost further down and harms the crop. Riding across sod kills it and sod farmers only get one crop per season. Most people wouldn’t knowingly take money from someone’s livelihood, the club hopes if people know better, they’ll do better. The minutes from club meetings decades earlier, show many of today’s issues aren’t new. Founding members dealt with many of the same challenges. Like any club, it is the relationships built that keep people engaged and involved. The Rice Creek Trail Association prides itself on being a familyfriendly club that welcomes riders of all abilities.
t the age of about 16 or 17, my mother gave me the title of a “hopeless romantic” and would always tell me that I love, love. In light of Valentine’s Day, I thought I would talk about my newfound love for romantic comedies and romance in general. I never understood why my mom gave me the nickname. Maybe it was because by the time I was a freshman in high school, I had my engagement ring picked out (it’s from Tiffany & Co.), my wedding season (fall) and my bridal party. Or maybe it was because I only read romance books and watched romance movies till my eyes burned. Madeline’s At the age of 16, I realized that love was not as shown in the movies. It Mail wasn’t “love at first sight” and the boy didn’t show up at the girl’s front Madeline door with flowers and a mixtape Dolby filled with songs that reminded him of her. Love kind of sucked but I was also a teenage girl with her emotions on overdrive, making me a bit dramatic. I stopped watching so many romance movies. I stopped watching them entirely because of how unrealistic they were. They were giving me false hope and as a hopeless romantic I wanted my love life to reflect a romantic comedy down to the exact detail. Things have changed since I was 16, and 18, and even 20. One of my college friends reintroduced me to romantic comedies just last year, and I became obsessed. Out of all the romcoms we watched, my favorite was “Made of Honor.” If you haven’t watched it yet, I highly recommend it. My all-time favorite romantic comedy is “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” with Matthew McConaughey and Kate Hudson. It also is my mom’s favorite. We watch it a lot together and even quote it to one another if the conversation allows. I have probably watched that film over 20 times, it never gets old. My second favorite romance movie is “Emma” from 2020. I just watched it a few weeks ago and was crying over my popcorn at the end. For some reason, it resonates the most with me because it seems the most realistic. Emma, the main character, and Mr. Knightley don’t realize they are in love with one another till they dance together. When both figure out their feelings for one another, their reactions are realistic-disbelief and denial in Emma’s case. During the holiday season, I love to watch “When Harry Met Sally.” Again, another classic that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. It is about two people who keep meeting at different points in their lives. Eventually, they stay in contact and slowly fall in love over time. There are complications but, in the end, they realize their differences are what makes them good together. It’s almost as good as “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” but I don’t think any movie will top that one. Even when I don’t want to admit it, I am a hopeless romantic at heart. I love everything romance. So, this Valentine’s Day, no matter how you spend it, I hope it looks like something from your favorite romantic comedy. Madeline Dolby is a Staff Writer at Press Publications. She can be reached at 651-407-1226 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com
Michelle Koch is the president of the Rice Creek Trail Association.
THE LOWDOWN | letter guidelines • Limited to 350 words. • Submissions must include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification. • Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area. • Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
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Details: Join Andrew Graff, Laura Zigman, Beth Dooley and Jody Lulich for an afternoon of literary fun. Meet and mingle with the authors. There will be a book signing and a question-andanswer session after the program. A cash bar is available. Contact: 651-430-3385
GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT
CONTRIBUTED
WINTERFEST 2024
When: Feb. 15-19 Where: Throughout Stillwater Details: Community-wide celebration with a variety of events including the fictitious University of Stillwater. Contact: one23events.com/ winterfest
ONGOING EVENTS
WATER STREET INN’S WINTER RIVER-SIDE ICE SKATING RINK When: 8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily through February Where: Water Street Inn, 101 Water St. S., Stillwater Details: Free skating for all ages in downtown Stillwater. Bring your own skates. Contact: 651-439-6000 or discoverstillwater.com
TREAT YOURSELF TUESDAYS
When: 5-8 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of every month Where: Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe, 5946 N. Good Ave., Oak Park Heights Details: Ladies’ night at Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe. Each month will feature a different cigar and drink pairing. There will be alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, all designed to bring out notes in the cigar. Contact: 651-342-0971
When: Friday, Feb. 16- Monday, Feb. 19 Where: Location of your choice Details: Annual event that encourages people to observe and record bird species in their surroundings. Participants can choose any location where birds are present to watch and document their sightings. Contact: www.birdcount.org/ participate/
MIDWINTER FAMILY FUN
When: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3 Where: Belwin Convervancy, 1552 Stagecoach Trail, Afton Details: Free family-friendly event featuring guided hikes, stargazing with the Minnesota Astronomical Society using a large refractive telescope, and s’mores around the campfires. Contact: belwin.org
LET’S GO ICE FISHING
When: 10:30 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Feb. 3 Where: Lake Jane, 9199 Lake Jane Trail N., Stillwater Details: Wild River Conservancy will provide kids with the equipment and fishing basics to catch their fist fish on the ice. Free; registration required. Contact: 715-482-3300 or wildriverconservancy.org
WINTER WANDERING
LITERATURE LOVERS’ NIGHT OUT
When: 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4 Where: Lowell Inn 102 2nd St. N., Stillwater
ANIMALS OF THE ST. CROIX RIVER VALLEY
When: 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8 Where: Scandia Community Center, 14727 209th St. N. Details: Jeff Forester will be presenting on the health of Minnesota lakes and rivers. The public is invited to attend.
SNOWSHOE TOUR OF FRANCONIA
FAT TIRE BIKE RALLY
When: 1- 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 Where: Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St. Croix Trail N., Shafer Details: Join Franconia staff and volunteers for a guided snowshoe tour of the sculpture park, followed by hot chocolate and apple cider around the fire pit at Franconia Commons. Participants will get a snowshoeing how-to from event partner Wild Rivers Conservancy before heading out on the tour. Registration is required. Contact: Franconia.org
BIRD HIKE
When: 10 a.m.-noon. Sunday, Feb. 4 Where: Belwin Conservancy, 1552 Stagecoach Trail, Afton Details: Morning of exploring the world of winter. Look for signs of life and figure out how animals survive the cold. RSVP required. Contact: belwin.org
and nutrition educators will show what steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Advanced registration is required. Contact: 651-430-8715 or www. lakeviewhealth.org/ When: 10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16 Where: Stillwater Public Library, 224 3rd St. N. Details: Learn about some animals that call the St. Croix River Valley their home and meet them up close. Presented by the Carpenter Nature Center. Contact: washcolib.libcal.com
FRIENDS OF SCANDIA PARK AND TRAILS SPEAKER EVENT
CURRENT EVENTS
FEBRUARY 2024
When: 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 Where: Pine Point Regional Park, 11900 Norrell Ave. N., Stillwater Details: Meet at the trailhead kiosk. Take part in a guided bird hike at Washington County Parks. The staff recommends bringing binoculars, water, snacks and wear winter hiking shoes or boots. Registration required. Contact: 651-430-8370
STOMP OUT DIABETES
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13 Where: Stillwater Medical Group Specialty Clinic, 1500 Curve Crest Blvd. Details: Lakeview Hospital diabetes
When: 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18 Where: Downtown Stillwater Details: Self-paced 10-mile course with 3 designated times racing segments. Participants may ride or race the course more than once. Discounts are available with advanced registration. Contact: www.bikereg.com/stillwater-fatbike-rally-2024
SCANDIA-MARINE LIONS BLOOD DRIVE
When: 1-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23 Where: Christ Lutheran Church, 150 5th St., Marine on St. Croix Details: Because of the constant shortage of blood, the Scandia-Marine Lions Club is hosting its quarterly blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross. Contact: scandiamarinelions.org
FAMILY FUN NIGHT
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23 Where: Marine Village Hall, 121 Judd St. Details: Activities include board games, Minute to Win it, book charades, crafts and more. Bring your favorite game to play with others. There will be pizza. Registration required. Contact: 651-433-2820
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Winterfest: All things winter in Stillwater Winterfest is an annual communitywide celebration for all things winter in Stillwater. The mission of the Stillwater event is to engage the Stillwater area and surrounding communities with events and opportunities in the midwinter season that enhance local businesses and the community atmosphere. The communitywide events take place over four days. These days are packed with events such as live music, physical and mental challenges and fun. These activities will hopefully inspire people to travel to Stillwater, support the local businesses and give back to local charities through a nonprofit organization, the fictitious ‘University of Stillwater.’ This year, Winterfest will take place Feb. 15-19. There are numerous activities to participate in, from a parka pub crawl to the “Stillwater’s Got Talent” talent show. Other events include a bags tournament, indoor market, purse bingo drag brunch, a fireworks show and more. Every day of the event is packed with fun things to do for the entire family. Local businesses are encouraged to participate in the following ways: • Feature a special “Winterfest” cocktail on the menu. • Dress up in festive wintertime or Winterfestthemed attire. • Participate in the parka pub crawl. • Share the event on social channels. • Come to service industry night. • Apply for the bartender challenge. • Become a sponsor. • Promote a Winterfest discount/special. • Put up the Winterfest window decal.
• Like and follow @StillwaterWinterfest on Facebook and Instagram. • Donate prizes/gift cards for grand prize winners! More information on Winterfest can be found online at www.one23events.com/winterfest.
Highlighted events at Winterfest • Thirsty Thursday Pub Crawl, all weekend • 4 -6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16: Opening Ceremonies, Lift Bridge Brewery Winterfest is an annual community-wide celebration for all things winter.
• 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17: Bags tournament and Winterfest games, JX Venue • 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17: Winterfest Market & Kids’ Activities, The Loft at Studio J • 6:15 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17: Winterfest Fireworks viewing, Papa’s Rooftop and River Siren Brewing • The crack of noon, Designer Purse Bingo & Drag Brunch (18-plus) • 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18: Closing ceremonies and Talent Show, JX Venue
CONTRIBUTED
The Pub Crawl begins on Thursday, Feb. 15 and goes all weekend.
ATHLETES OF THE MONTH
*Athletes chosen by press staff
Owen Waldoch
Josephine Lang
Forest Lake basketball
Stillwater hockey
Josephine Lang is a force on both ends of the ice for Stillwater hockey — a solid defenseman and a scoring threat with 12 goals and 25 assists this season. She is especially dangerous on special teams. Lang leads the Ponies (12-6) in power-play goals with eight. “She has been awesome for us,” Coach Annie Cashman said. That’s been the case for three years as the 5-foot-5 senior has a career total of 35 goals (18 on power plays) and 61 assists in 72 games, helping the Ponies post a 46-25-1 record in that span. Lang has committed to play hockey at Providence, a Division I team in Rhode Island.
Owen Waldoch, a 6-foot-6 senior forward, has been a scoring machine for Forest Lake basketball for the past three years. This season, Waldoch is averaging 21 points, 13 rebounds, 3.9 assists and two blocked shots per game for the Rangers (7-5), shooting 47 percent. In the home opener on Dec. 15, he pumped in 44 points, a team record, against White Bear Lake and passed the 1,000-point marker. Coach Kyle McDonald praised Waldoch as “a guy who sets his goals very high” and works hard to achieve them. Another goal he reached is signing with a college team- Concordia of St. Paul. Waldoch scored 16.6 ppg on a 9-18 team as a junior and 19.4 ppg on a 6-22 team as a sophomore.
Cassidy Pitzl
Jackson Kogler
Forest Lake basketball
Stillwater swimming
Jackson Kogler, a Stillwater junior and swimmer, broke two school records Saturday, Jan.13 at the Section 4AA meet while winning the individual medley in 1:50.17 and the backstroke in 49.53. Both previous school records were held by Jon Busse set in 2017. Kohler, 6-foot-4, also led off the first-place 400 freestyle relay. In the University of Minnesota’s Maroon and Gold Invitational, Kogler won the IM in 1:53.26 and the backstroke in 50.97. Last season, Kogler placed fourth at the State meet in both events. “Jackson is a very talented swimmer who has worked diligently to maximize his talent,” Coach Brian Luke said. “He is a great team member, going out of his way to make sure all his teammates feel welcome.”
Cassidy Pitzl, Forest Lake basketball standout, tallied her 1,000th point on Tuesday, Jan.16 while scoring 17 points in a 68-53 win over East Ridge. The 5-foot-11 senior guard is averaging 16.7 points and 5.9 rebounds for the Rangers (7-8). “Our team’s leader, on and off the court,” Coach Jen Wagner said. “She is an impressive young woman who gives her best effort in everything she does.” Pitzl scored 16.8 points per game as a junior and 11.8 as a sophomore. She has committed to play basketball at ConcordiaSt. Paul, a Division 2 program.
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Press Publications in White Bear Lake is seeking a staff writer to join its award-winning team. As a staff writer-reporter you will be responsible for coordinating editorial content and layout for our newspapers, website and social media pages. In addition to writing stories, the job will require attending meetings, taking photographs, assisting with the layout process, coordinating, writing occasional editorial columns and maintaining a positive relationship with the community at large. We are looking for a candidate who is an efficient writer, passionate about local community news and great at time managment. Candidates should have a degree in journalism (or a related field) and have relevant experience. To apply, please send resume, cover letter and three writing samples to quadnews@presspubs.com.
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Controller/Bookkeeper Summary of Responsibilities: Our growing construction company is looking for a Controller/ Bookkeeper to join our team. Controller should be able to successfully complete their tasks and are responsible for the financial and accounting functions of Douglas-Kerr Underground, LLC. The ideal candidate has excellent communication and multi-tasking skills with an accounting/ financial background. Must have positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to team.
Pay and Benefits: -Pay will be based on experience -Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance -Paid time off -Paid training Contact Info: Qualified candidates, please contact Ryan Kerr at 320-679-8937 ext. 14 or email at ryan@douglas-kerr.com.
ROUTES AVAILABLE FOR WHITE BEAR PRESS: Rte 114 – S of Cnty Rd F – E of Bellaire Rte 122 – S of Cnty Rd F – E of McKnight Rte 123 – S of Cnty Rd F to W of McKnight Rte 124 – N of Birch to E of Hazel Rte 125 – N of Cedar to W of McKnight Rte 232 – N of 96 to W of 2nd Ave Rte 235 – S of 4th St – E of Otter Lake Rd Rte 262 – Lake Ave – E of Hwy 61 Rte 284 – S of Otter Lake – W of Otter Lake Rd Rte 294 – N of 96 – E of Portland Main Street Business District – downtown White Bear Lake Other Routes available, call our Circulation Dept. at 651-407-1246.
MAHTOMEDI VOLUNTEER FOR CITY COMMISSIONS The City of Mahtomedi is accepting applications from residents interested in serving on advisory commissions. Openings for three-year appointments exist on the Planning Commission, Parks Commission, Environmental and Finance Commission. The Commissions serve as advisory bodies making recommendations within their areas of responsibility to the City Council. If you are interested in serving the community in any of these capacities, please contact City Hall at 651426-3344 for an application form. Applications are also available on the City’s website at www.ci.mahtomedi. mn.us. Applications will be taken through March 1, 2024.
If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet.
WASHINGTON COUNTY BRIEF Downs Government Affairs will continue to represent Washington County Downs Government Affairs LLC will continue to provide federal lobbying services to Washington County, after the county board extended a contract with the company. The contract is not to exceed $69,600 annually from Jan. 17, 2024, to Jan. 31, 2026. The county’s previous contract for federal lobbying services expired at the end of 2023.
to work 1-2 days, evening visitations, & every other weekend at our Shoreview and other chapel locations. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: • Receptionist desk duties for a funeral chapel • Data entry accuracy with computer proficiency • Light housekeeping duties • (Driver) Valid MN Driver’s License Requirements: • Attention to detail • Excellent customer service skills • Strong written and verbal communication skills
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Rentals/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
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PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF Sheriff’s Office will receive funds for narcotics task force
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office will receive a $228,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Justice Programs, to fund the Washington County Narcotics Task Force. The grant will be used through Dec. 31, 2025. There is no matching requirement. The funds will be used to reimburse the Sheriff’s Office for insurance and personnel expenses of the sergeant overseeing the task force. The grant’s purpose is to provide multijurisdictional support for the investigation and prosecution of gang, drug and related violent crime.
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For more than a quarter of a century, Tom Carlisle has had the vision and the opportunity to build quality homes at a fair price. With a background as a master carpenter, Tom understands what it takes to construct a well built home. He founded Sherco Construction back in 1994 and has hundreds of homes for families who demand nothing less than absolute quality and craftsmanship. Tom is proud that many of his clients become repeat customers, building their second and third homes with Sherco Construction. This is a family owned business where pride is taken in knowing that we will be here to stand behind our product for years to come. We have built our reputation on not just the quality of our construction but the integrity to stand behind it. The Sherco team is proud to have the honor of being acknowledged with a 2019, New Home Reggie Award. Kitchen Remodels, Bathroom Remodels, Four Season Porch add-ons, Decks and patios, Finished Basements, Entire Home Remodels. You name it and we can help you overcome your current home’s issues and create the home you envision. Our expert design team can help overcome any design issues that many homes face and convert any outdated space into the open concept and contemporary designs that homeowners are longing for, without having to uproot or relocate the family.
Contact us for more information or to schedule a meeting to explore the possibilities. 651.462.1817 | ShercoHomeBuilders.com | BC627690
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FEBRUARY 2024
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COMMUNITY BRIEFS Better Breathers Club meets
Bridge Over Troubled Water by L C Simon
Available now on the shelves of Valley Bookseller, 217 Main Street Stillwater or most bookstores and Amazon.
796015
My career with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office spans twenty-seven years, with seventeen of those years focused exclusively on child abuse investigations. I was a contract instructor for the MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for ten years, teaching other law enforcement across the state the unique techniques used in this specialized field. After retirement, my wife and I traveled in a motorhome and spent our summers living and working in Voyageurs National Park for twelve years. I have never lost my dedication to the cause of protecting children, and I recently decided to write novels that draw from my experience in law enforcement, highlighting the problem of child abuse in our country. I think I hit the mark, making for a fun, exciting read while informing at the same time.
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WE PAY CA$ CA$H FOR YOUR CANS
Forest Lake Masons accepts fundraising applications
WE PAY 3¢ MORE PER LB ON ALL ALUMINUM CANS
The Forest Lake Masonic Lodge No. 344
15717 Forest Blvd, Hugo 651-407-0092 www.NRIMN.com
• Insulated Wire • Radiators • Aluminum Rims • Aluminum Siding • And More! We are an established company handling all industrial & residential scrap needs. Try our fast and convenient location. Drive in with your recycling and drive out with CASH!!
The St. John’s Masonic Lodge #1 of Stillwater donated 14 lifesaving fire suppression devices to Washington County. These portable devices fit in the trunk of squad cars or other first responder vehicles. They can reduce fire and water damage in enclosures like houses, garages, stores or sheds. They are lightweight and easy to deploy. Within 35 seconds, the fire is suppressed and the temperature inside the enclosure drops by more than 1,000
Big Lake Ice Fishing Contest
The Big Lake Fishing Contest will be from 10 a.m.2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17. The contest will take place on Big Lake located in Osceola, Wisconsin. Kids that are ages 6 and under fish for free. There will be door prizes as well as cash prizes that will be distributed to the first-, second- and third-place winners for both adults and kids who participate. The fishing categories include pan fish, bass, walleye and northern. Admission is free. More information can be found by calling 715-294-2342. 790565
• Brass • Copper • Cat Converters • Stainless
St. John’s Masonic Lodge #1 donates lifesaving devices
degrees, making it a safer environment from which to extract trapped firefighters or citizens. These devices were presented to Washington County Sheriff Dan Starry, Stillwater Fire Chief Stuart Glaser, Stillwater Police Chief Brian Mueller, Oak Park Heights Fire Chief Allen Eisinger, Oak Park Heights Police Chief Steven Hansen and Bayport Police Chief by Jay Jackson.
Maintain safe and accessible sidewalks
The city of Stillwater requires that every resident clear snow and ice from any sidewalks abutting their property. This is important to uphold equitable and safe access to the sidewalks for people with disabilities and people pushing child strollers. To comply with city code, make sure your sidewalks are clean within 24 hours of the deposit of snow/ice. To report an uncleared sidewalk or safety issue, call 651-430-8820.
Winter parking remains in effect
Parking in downtown Stillwater changed this past September. Parking east of Main Street became paid parking, and portions of Main Street have become 30-minute “quick zones.” Parking
west of Main Street remains free for visitors. There is still timed parking throughout downtown. There is no parking on a city street from 2-6 a.m. during the winter months, through March. On odd-numbered days, cars parked in the street must be on the side of the street with odd-numbered addresses. On evennumbered days, the same rules apply, and cars must be parked on the side of the street with evennumbered addresses. To learn more about the parking in Stillwater, visit stillwatermn.gov/ parking.
Successful mattress cleanup
The city of Stillwater has collaborated with Ramsey and Washington County Recycling and Energy (R&E) to offer a free mattress and box spring recycling collection. The collection was done by Second Chance Recycling this past October and allowed residents to get rid of a mattress or box spring for free without it counting toward a bulk item with Waste Management. One hundred and twenty-five households participated in the program, and 233 mattresses and box springs were collected. The city continues to work with Second Chance Recycling to make this mattress cleanup program an annual event.
CALENDAR BRIEFS
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The Better Breathers Club offers the opportunity to learn ways to better cope with chronic lung disease while getting the support of others who share in your struggles. This support group gives you the tools you need to live the best quality of life you can. Better Breathers meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month and features educational presentations on a wide range of relevant topics, including how chronic lung diseases affect the lungs, breathing techniques, exercise, talking with your physician, and medication and other treatment options. The group is appropriate for community members with COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. Family members, friends and support persons are welcome. There is no fee. Call 651-430-4786 for more information. Classes take place from 1-3 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of every month at Lakeview Hospital, 927 Churchill St. W., Stillwater.
is once again looking for organizations from the community to partner with for its annual fundraising event. The Masons typically partner with organizations to host five to seven fundraising events to help generate charitable donations. The events include the annual booyah, barbecue, Sunday brunches and more. Previously, the Masons have partnered with cancer research and support groups, youth service groups, Scouts and other communitybased organizations. Applications will be accepted until March 1. Download the application online at www. forestlakemasons.com. Contact forestlakemasons@gmail. com with questions.
and Trails will host Jeff Forester, a Hubert Humphrey Public Policy and Shannon Leadership Fellow. He will speak about the positive impacts we can have by working with public policymakers to advocate for our life-giving resources. The talk will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will take place at the Scandia Community Center, 14727 209th St. N. For more information, call 651-726-2458.
Frozen Bocce Ball Tournament returns
The annual Brian’s Bocce Ball Tournament returns PE TBrian’s S EBar R &VGrill. I C The E DIRE to Stillwater on Feb. 24 at tournament will be held in the parking lot behind the bar in downtown Stillwater at 219 Main St. S. Contact the bar at 651-571-3132 for more information or to sign up your team.
Friends of Scandia Trails PParks E T and SE RVICE DIRECTORY On Thursday, Feb. 8, the Friends of Scandia Parks
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WASHINGTON COUNTY BRIEFS Washington County Parks debuts Connect series for BIPOC community, allies
For more information, or to register for either get-together, call 651-430-4333 or by emailing elena. schewe@co.washington.mn.us.
Connect is a Washington County Parks series of free get-togethers in the parks for Blacks, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) and their allies. These get-togethers offer a chance to connect to the outdoors, try new recreational activities and meet new friends. These events take place on a Free Tuesday when no vehicle permit is required to enter the county parks. The next event is a group snowshoe at the Cottage Grove Ravine Park from 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6. The group will meet at the Ravine Landing for a snowshoeing adventure through the park. There are 20 teen-to-adult snowshoes available, and four youth spots available. Additional rental equipment spots are available depending on size. A group hike will take place at the Lake Elmo Park Reserve, from 4:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, March 5. The group will start at the Nordic Center and hike together on the Lake Elmo Park Reserve’s Eagle Point trail.
Twin Cities metro area counties launch collaborative recycling campaign
Annually, the Twin Cities metro area recycles an average of 900,000 tons of paper and cardboard, metal, glass and plastic. That is enough recyclables each year to equal the weight of about four large cruise ships. Six metro counties are working together to restore trust in Minnesota’s recycling system after questions about what happens to recycling after it leaves homes have been increasing over the years. Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington counties want residents to know that recycling is real and it works. In Minnesota, recycled items become new products, locally and regionally, when recycling is done right. The state is home to many recycling facilities that collect sort, process and manufacture items made from bottles, boxes and other containers residents put in their home recycling bins.
BUSINESS BRIEF
Glass bottles and jars are sorted in St. Paul. Clear glass is sent to Shakopee to make bottles for drinks, pickles, salad dressings and more. Recycled paper and cardboard are made into cereal and cracker boxes in St. Paul. Learn more at RecyclingExists.com
Volunteers needed to drive veterans to medical appointments
Washington County Veterans Services is recruiting volunteer drivers to shuttle Washington County veterans to medical appointments at the Veterans Administration (VA) using vans provided by the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Washington County provides parking for two vans from the DAV; one is parked at the county’s Government Center in Stillwater and the other is parked at the transit center in Forest Lake. Volunteer drivers may call the DAV transportation coordinator at 612-467-2768. Veterans needing rides may also call the same number and request a ride.
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A Jersey Mike’s sandwich shop will open in Forest Lake. It will be located at 708 Lake St. S., by the Music Connection.
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Waiting Child Darian,15, is talkative, outgoing, helpful, and funny. He enjoys spending time outside fishing, riding dirt bike, and four-wheeling. Darian likes to cook, play video games, and play dodgeball. He would like to live in a rural community with a “country style” atmosphere. Following adoption, Darian will need to maintain contact with his siblings and birthparents.
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Jump in feet first and get cold for the cause The Forest Lake Rotary kicks off 2024 with a splash by hosting its annual Winter Plunge. The Rotary Club puts on the Winter Plunge as a fundraiser in an effort to assist nonprofit organizations. Participants will jump into frozen Forest Lake to support their chosen cause. It doesn’t matter if you are a plunger or a spectator, you will be able to donate to the nonprofit organization of your choice. The Winter Plunge, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 17, is designed to support local nonprofit organizations, civic clubs—such as the
Rotary and Lions clubs— school booster clubs, youth sports organizations, animal shelters, rescue organizations and many more. Representatives of these clubs form a team and then take the cold plunge into the lake wearing coordinated costumes of some kind in support of their cause. There will be a costume contest; prizes will be awarded for the best individual costume and best team costume. Since its creation in 2010, the Winter Plunge has raised more than $999,000 for local organizations.
Team members will be able to collect donation pledges through Feb. 17 on the Rotary’s website. The whole community is invited to come out and watch the show. The cold plunge will begin at 12 p.m. at Lakeside Memorial Park. The event will end once all jumpers have taken the plunge. Learn more about the Winter Plunge by visiting www.forestlakerotary.org and clicking on the penguin. Madeline Dolby CONTRIBUTED
Staff from the Lakes International Language Academy (LILA) took the plunge into Forest Lake last year.
3 brothers feel ‘they can do more’ for community BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
There are not one, not two, but three brothers who have volunteered to serve their community by joining the Hugo Fire Department (HFD). The Albertsons — Darek, 31, Steve, 28, and Cory, 26 — grew up in Withrow and attended Stillwater Public Schools. Darek and Steve joined the department in December 2021 and Cory joined a year later. Darek and Steve have completed their probationary training and Cory will finish his in December 2024. “I guess for me, it was just there was more I could do to give back or more I could do with my life,” Darek explained. Cory added, “I think we all felt like we could do more, that there was something extra we could all do.” The three also have two cousins who serve as volunteer firefighters in southern Minnesota. Growing up, all three were involved in sports, and Steve and Cory played college baseball. “After you’re done with school and sports … you want to be part of some kind of team,” Steve said. “The Albertson brothers are competitive, and having them on the fire department together is great,” said Chief Jim Compton Jr. “When deciding to hire Darek and Steve, we knew we needed to hire them both at the same time. We knew that they would push each other to do better and get through the initial schooling and training. There was no doubt in our mind that they wouldn’t let the other fail. “A year later, when Cory came through our hiring process, we realized early that he was very similar to his brothers. They push each other and have fun at the same time. They all have a great sense of humor and get along perfect with everyone on the department. They come from a construction family and, after meeting their parents, we knew why they worked so hard and have good work ethic.” All three have different day jobs. Darek is in medical sales, Steve is a project manager for a construction company and Cory works for their father, Brian Albertson, who owns his own construction company. They are also busy being dads. Darek has three kids, ages 4, 3 and 4 months;
CONTRIBUTED
(Pictured from left:) Cory, Darek and Steve Albertson all serve on the Hugo Fire Department. The three grew up in Withrow and graduated from Stillwater Public Schools.
Steve has a 2-month-old; and Cory and his wife are expecting their first child in June. “We are all here to serve in the best capacity we can because we are all doing our own thing at home,” Darek said. “So, we all could be in the midst of changing a diaper, getting home from work … That’s all of us when you’re a volunteer. We are all just doing our thing and then all of a sudden, boom — When the pager goes off, we switch from being at home to doing this.” The Albertsons say they are thankful for their wives, who have been supportive of them joining
HFD. “It’s a big commitment, not only the calls, but the training … especially during that first year,” Steve explained. Really, the only competition the brothers have between each other is who can get to the fire station the fastest, and Steve and Cory almost always beat Darek, because they live closer to the station. “There is definitely times in the downtime of being at the station that we are brothers and joking and having fun. I think all three of us understand that when we are on a call, or when we are getting paged out, there is a switch, and we go into ‘work’ mode,” Darek said. “Helping other people out with your brothers next to you is pretty cool,” Steve said. Their mother, Tracy Albertson, said she and her husband, Brian, are not surprised that their sons joined HFD. “(We are) not surprised that the three of them have chosen to serve their community together. They have always shared the same compassion for hard work and dedication. We are proud to call them our sons.” When the brothers aren’t busy being workers, fathers, husbands or firefighters, they enjoy spending time together golfing, hunting and fishing. The Albertsons aren’t the only family members to serve on the HFD. There is also a cousin combo currently serving. And of course, Chief Compton followed in the steps of his father, Jim Compton Sr. Compton Jr. says that in the past, the department has had a father and son; husband, wife and son; brothers and cousins, who have all served together. “When you serve with us at Hugo Fire, you are a part of our ‘fire family’ and that is even more meaningful for those that have served or do serve with their immediate family,” Compton Jr. said. I personally know how it is as my father and I served together for 11 years. There’s no greater honor then to serve and help people, but to do so with your family makes it even better.” Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or citizennews@presspubs.com.
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