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TURN THE PAGE 21

21 | Muskie Fishing:

7 | Sports & Studies:

Mahtomedi fisherman talks changes.

Stillwater athlete wraps up career.

11 | Gove’s Goats:

16 | Good Samaritans:

Party with the goats.

Forest Lake group pay it forward.

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

About the cover This picture was taken at a previous fireworks display over the St. Croix River in Stillwater. With many Fourth of July celebrations back on this summer, people are reminded to use safety measures when dealing with fireworks. See more on page 13.

CONTRIBUTORS | What was your favorite summer vacation? NOELLE OLSON | Staff Writer

SHANNON GRANHOLM | Lead Editor

RANDY ROBERTS |

CLAIRE BAUER | Designer art@presspubs.com Visiting family in Colorado and spending so many weekends in Door County, Wisconsin.

lowdownnews@presspubs.com Jackson Hole Wyoming and taking my kids to our cabin on Big Wood Lake in Wisconsin.

Multimedia Consultant

lowdown@presspubs.com As a kid, it was the annual 2 weeks at our family cabin in Harper’s Ferry. As an adult, taking the kids to the Black Hills.

PAUL DOLS |

Photojournalist/Website Editor photos@presspubs.com I have fond memories of train trips our family took out to Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.

quadnews@presspubs.com Growing up every summer we would go to Wisconsin Dells.

ROY HEILMAN | Contributing Writer We took our kids to the Black Hills to see Mount Rushmore, Wall Drug, Badlands National Park, and all the rest. They were just old enough to really appreciate it, and it was the best trip we’ve ever had.

Publisher

Staff Writer

Contributor

Photographer/ Photo Editor

Designer

Carter Johnson

Noelle Olson

Roy Heilman

Paul Dols

Claire Bauer

Lead Editor

Design Manager

Marketing Director

Advertising

Patty Steele

Randy Roberts

Shannon Granholm

Zac Hoppe

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR ‘The serpent tricked me’ The Scripture reading appointed one morning was from Genesis 3. It was the familiar story of Adam and Eve in the garden. “Then the Lord God said to the woman, ‘What is this that you have done?’ The woman said, ‘The serpent tricked me.’” I didn’t think of “original sin.” Instead, I thought of the “Big Lie.” I thought of the conspiracy theories that today are threatening American Democracy. Many Americans have been tricked by the serpent. The serpent tricked hundreds of Americans to commit insurrection. They violently stormed and damaged

the U.S. Capitol, causing our elected representatives to run and hide in fear and disrupting their constitutional duties. I thought of the millions of Americans who have been tricked by the serpent to believe that our elections are fraudulent, untrustworthy and that we have a U.S. President who has not been honestly elected to office. It is a frightening prospect that there may be future political violence and there will most certainly be more legislative assaults on individual voting rights (voter suppression). Our democracy is at risk and is under siege.

Blaming others is corrosive. However, seeking accountability can be lifesaving. And that’s what Minnesota and America must do to save our fragile democratic form of government. We need a new birth of freedom, “… this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” — Abraham Lincoln The new birth of freedom means that we as a people must speak the truth and work to save our “American Experiment” in self-government. Democracy is not a spectator sport. And members of the silent majority have no voice.

What can we do to strike the serpent? • Enter the arena. • Recruit others to join you. • Support with encouragement and money organizations and people who are speaking truth. • Hold publicly accountable those who threaten our democracy with lies, conspiracies and undemocratic actions. • Old-fashioned and reliable political action: Letters, phone calls, rallies, peaceful protests. David Francis Stillwater

Stillwater church celebrates 150 years STILLWATER — Founded in 1871, Trinity Lutheran Church in Stillwater celebrates 150 years of God’s story still unfolding. The entire community is invited to celebrate this significant birthday with cake and ice cream on Trinity’s outdoor green space on Monday, July 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. Please bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain date is Tuesday, July 20, same time and place. Trinity is located at 115 4th St. N in Stillwater at the corner of 4th and Myrtle Streets. Members of Trinity have been working on archives and history, living history with treasured garments, a story cookbook and more. Recipes for the popular Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner will be included in the story cookbook. Just one interesting discovery of the 150th anniversary team is letters and photos from the Correspondence Committee

for Trinity military during World War ll. From 1943 to 1946, ninety-three Trinity members serving overseas received letters from Trinity congregants. Trinity is taking this opportunity to also look ahead — God’s story still unfolding. On display at our celebrations will be Lil Peach, a 120 square foot model tiny home that is used to spread the word about Sacred Settlements — an innovative, researchbased way to address long-term homelessness by developing holistic tiny home communities in cooperation with faith communities. Trinity is part of a team of faith communities in the St. Croix Valley raising funds to build a tiny home to be part of the next Sacred Settlement, visit settled.org to read more about this organization. In the fall Trinity will have a celebration at their 5th annual TrinityFEST on Sunday, Sept. 19 at 10

a.m. at their outdoor drive-in located at 1433 Main St. in Houlton, Wisconsin. Included will be worship with special music and a sermon by Bishop Patricia Lull, food trucks, living history, story cookbook available, art, ministry fair and more. “Over the last 15 months and the last 150 years, God has made it possible for Trinity Lutheran to remain the church in all circumstances. We are eager to see the future unfold and invite all of our neighbors to come celebrate and look forward together,” Rev. Dr. Chris Bellefeuille said. The mission statement of the church reads, “Because God first loved us, we live as Jesus in the world, loving God and loving neighbor.” For more information, please visit trinitylc.org or call 651439-7400.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS Lake Elmo Farmers Market open for season The seventh year of the Lake Elmo Farmers Market 2021 season began June 19. The market plans to raise money for a local organization, the Washington County K-9 unit. The unit has performed its K-9 demonstrations at the market through the years. Donations will be collected weekly throughout the season at the market

FUN IS BETTER TOGETHER July 1-4: vs. Omaha StormChasers July 13-18: vs. Columbus Clippers July 27-Aug. 1: vs. Indianapolis Indians

table. Along with the community’s help raising funds, the market has committed to matching up to $1,000 of all funds raised. The market offers candies, books, canned goods, beef, flowers, bakery items, fresh produce, eggs, homemade body products and more. The market is open every Saturday through Sept. 4 and is located at Lake Elmo Elementary School, 11030 Stillwater Blvd. N. in Lake Elmo.

For more information, go to facebook.com/ lakeelmofarmersmarket or contact Jill @ 651-2614493. Bridge the valley bike rally The Stillwater Sunrise Rotary Club will sponsor the inaugural Bridge the Valley Bike Rally on Sunday, Aug. 15. It will begin and end on Chestnut Plaza with six different routes that weave through the St. Croix Valley countryside. There will be fun for everyone, whether it be a short family ride, challenging longer rides

or a secluded gravel ride. The six different routes range from 5 to 80 miles in length to suit all ages and skill levels. After your ride, meet up with family and friends to enjoy an amazing variety of savory cuisine and exclusive discounts with our Stillwater business partners. Top off your day with live entertainment along the St. Croix River. To register, and for more information, go to: stillwatersunriserotary. org/page/bridge-thevalley-bike-rally.

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NEWS BRIEF Road closure on Highway 61 Motorists traveling on Highway 61 between Forest Lake and Wyoming will encounter a detour and delays. Highway 61 will be temporarily closed between Highway 8 in Wyoming and I-35 in Forest Lake. Local access on Highway 61 will be maintained for residents and businesses. However, through traffic on Highway 61 will be detoured to I-35. Highway 61 is expected to reopen by Monday, July 19, weather permitting.

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Volunteers make community ommunity events are back. Hugo Good Neighbor days was a hit, and fi reworks were impressive. White Bear Lake’s Marketfest kicks off July 1 after a year off. The Manitou Days community festival begins with the parade at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 2 followed by the Beach Dance from 8-11 p.m. at Memorial Beach. Many thanks go out to the volunteers who lead our communities and make these events possible for everyone. It was more than 20 years ago that events like this were nearly dead. The fourth of July fi reworks show was given up by the Yacht Club and taken on by volunteers with the help of the city of White Bear Lake. It’s this kind of cooperation that makes a community great. See the full list of events is the Manitou day Marketfest section. Volunteers are important in a small community. From event organizers to business associations, volunteers play a major role in the look and feel of our towns, and the amenities that draw people to want to live here. Community engagement is something to be considered as local governments look at long-term Publisher’s infrastructure plans and housing strategies. A community needs a View balance of single-family housing condos, rentals and retirement Carter Johnson and housing. Different communities have different housing and transportation needs. I applaud our cities who seek input from residents about future plans, and I’m hopeful they will listen to the feedback citizens provide and proceed slowly and thoughtfully. Volunteers and citizens make a difference. Get out and enjoy the various events this summer, and get involved in your community by volunteering.

Let me introduce myself y name is Caden Christiansen and I am a summer intern at Press Publications. I graduated from Henry Sibley High School, now Two Rivers High School, in 2019 and just fi nished my sophomore year at Bethel University where I am currently majoring in fi nance with a journalism minor. At Bethel I am a middle infielder on the baseball team and the sports editor for the school newspaper The Clarion. I was born in White Bear township and my family and I lived there until I was five years old before moving to south Maplewood. Caden’s As a little kid I was Corner frequently standing in Caden line at Cup Christiansen N’ Cone and loved going to Marketfest with my parents. Now as an almost 20 year old, I have since moved away from my parents brand new house built in Newport, Minnesota and living with six of my Bethel teammates in Arden Hills. This summer I have spent my time loving

my internship at Press Publications, working for an asphalt company in Edina, umping youth baseball games, playing amatuer baseball in the Park National League, and learning to grocery shop for under $100. My internship at Press Publications is unfortunately only eight weeks long and I am working around 15 hours a week. In the three short weeks I have been here I can’t express enough how much I enjoy it. I am only in the office Mondays and Tuesdays, and although my other jobs put food on the table and gas in my car, I wish I was able to be in the office reporting and writing all week. Everyone in the office has been extremely welcoming and friendly ever since I have started and I really appreciate being given this opportunity to learn, grow, and improve my writing ability. One of the things I love about journalism is getting to learn about new and interesting people and hear their stories and that is something I am really excited to continue doing the rest of the summer. I have always loved to write and to this day would take writing a 15 page paper over a test any day. But as I enter

my junior year of college with no idea what I want my future career path to look like, I am reminded of my Friendly Hills Middle School ‘Book of Me’ assignment. At my high school graduation party in the summer of 2019, my mom showed me a page from the scrapbook I made in my sixth grade english class titled “Who Will I Be?” Sixth grade Caden wrote about playing college baseball and becoming a sports writer for ESPN, traveling the country watching games and reporting on them. Seeing that in writing has helped me remain open minded about the future and stay open to new opportunities. It reminds me to truly take advantage of my internship this summer and is something that will motivate me to dive into any future opportunities that present themselves. As I write for The Clarion and now for the Press Publications, every small business story, author Q&A, or town hall meeting is a way of keeping that sixth grade dream alive, and I can't wait to see where it all takes me. Caden Christiansen is the editorial intern at Press Publications.

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. • Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. • Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. • Submissions containing facts not previously published in The Lowdown must be accompanied by factual verification. • All letters are subject to editing. • Deadline is 5 p.m., Wednesday of the week prior to publication. • To submit a letter, e-mail it to lowdownnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

South Dakota It felt good to get back together with friends in South Dakota for our father/son weekend of target shooting, four wheeling and taking in nature. This has been an annual trip for several years with my four college roommates and our sons, who are now all in high school. With the high price of shotgun shells, we did not shoot trap and did not get to play the annual rounds of Annie Oakley. I love the variety of fi rearms we were able to try - old lever actions, bolt action, semiautomatics, iron sights, guns with scopes and BB guns. We continued to reinforce proper gun safety, field safety and how to clean, inspect and adjust the equipment. My favorite was a lightweight subsonic .22 long rifle and my sons was an old lever action .22. As the boys tried their hand at the different guns it is always fun to learn more about science behind the sport. This year we plunked more than 2,000 rounds in four days. Our fi ngertips were sore from loading the such small clips. I tend to strike up conversations wherever I go. A local farmer said it’s been dry and the crops are stressed. The corn was hip high and the leaves were curling. Some fields had leaves turning yellow. In one field the alfalfa was diseased. I was impressed with the variety of native grasses on the farm. The different grasses provide cover for native birds and pheasant, which was introduced as a game bird to South Dakota in 1898. One second-generation local farmer we have known for years was experimenting with ground cover ideas like corn rows planted at 60 inches with a cover crop of beans were planted in between. Normal rows are planted at 30 inches. He said he estimates a 30% savings in fertilizer. His dad said no one knew about where corn populations could be when he started. Back then populations were 12,000; today in South Dakota 20,000 population per acre is common. I asked about the old saying “two in the hill” and he explained that years ago the germination of a seed was about 50% so they needed two seeds per hole. South Dakota is amazing place, though the price of a hunting license was raised this year and could discourage the next generation of hunters. I encourage families to get out and experience the fields, hills and landscape our neighbor to the west has to offer. I hope to keep bringing my kids and grandkids someday on this annual trip. Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

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Rustic Roots Winery joins chamber

RANDY ROBERTS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce welcomed Rustic Roots Winery as a new member with a ribbon cutting celebration on June 10. Pictured left to right are: Jake Powell (vineyard manager), Rustic Roots owners Andrea and Greg Sandager, Jason Kleschult (winemaker) and Allison Sherdy (tasting room manager). The event took place at 20168 St. Croix Trail N. in Scandia.

ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

*Athletes chosen by press staff

Bethany Weiss

Gunner Arens

Forest Lake Softball

Stillwater Lacrosse

Bethany Weiss, Forest Lake sophomore, was the offensive leader of the Rangers’ state runner-up softball team. In the state tournament, Weiss went 6-for-10, including a two-run homer that was the key hit in a 5-4 semifinals win over Chanhassen. For the season, Weiss, a catcher and first baseman, led the Rangers (24-5) with a .517 batting average, 42 runs-batted-in and six homers. Her 46 hits also included 11 doubles and two triples.

Gunner Arens, Stillwater senior goalkeeper, was a key player on lacrosse teams that went 29-5 in his two seasons, including 17-0 in the Northwest Suburban Conference, and placed fourth in the state tournament this year. Arens posted a .705 save percentage and 5.59 goals-against-average this year on a 15-4 team. His stats were .649 and 5.46 as a sophomore on a 14-1 team that lost in the section finals. He’s also a forward on the hockey team.

Samantha Pidde

Cole Brisbois

Stillwater Lacrosse

Forest Lake Track

Samantha Pidde was a fleet-footed and tenacious low defender for the Stillwater lacrosse team that went 9-0 in conference and 14-2 overall, placing second in the section. Pidde notched 17 forced turnovers (most on the team) and 26 ground ball possessions (third on the team). “She exemplifies heart and hustle. She gives 100 percent every day, and pushes our team to continuously improve,” coach Alexandra Crofts said.

Cole Brisbois, Forest Lake junior, placed eighth in the state track meet 100-meter dash with 10.97 seconds and ran the third leg of the 4x100 relay team that placed seventh. In Section 7AA, he won the 100 with 11.10, also qualifying for state in the 200 with second place. In the Suburban East Conference, Brisbois was champion in the 100 (11.31) and second in the 200 (22.66). He led the Ranger football team in rushing with 356 yards and three touchdowns in four games in a shortened season.

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State graduation rate reaches historical high ROSEVILLE — The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) released the class of 2020’s graduation rate data on June 10. Overall, Minnesota high school seniors reached another historic graduation rate high of 83.8% (56,684 students) who graduated in 2020. This continues an upward trend for Minnesota’s statewide four-year graduation rate, which has increased by 1.3 percentage points in the last five years. Additionally, 3,490 students from earlier classes also earned their diplomas in 2020, graduating five, six or seven years after beginning high school. “The class of 2020 graduated while we were all just learning how to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a time of great uncertainty, and the perseverance of our students, educators and families demonstrates their commitment to rise to this moment and reach the end of their pre-K through grade 12 journey,” MDE Commissioner Dr. Heather Mueller said. “While we have so much to be proud of in Minnesota, we know that we still have work to do to close gaps and increase access, participation and representation to ensure every single student graduates from high school.

FROM THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Minnesota high school graduation rates from 2016 to 2020.

Governor Walz and Lt. Governor Flanagan’s Due North Education Plan will continue to guide us in eliminating barriers and building out the systems and structures we need to center our students so that every student is seen, valued, heard and represented

throughout their entire educational experience.” While graduation rates increased statewide for most racial and ethnic student groups, the graduation rate for Black students declined slightly from 2019 to 2020. American Indian

students saw a significant increase of 4.9 percentage points for a graduation rate of 55.7%. In the previous five years, the four-year graduation rate for American Indian students had remained between 49% and 51%. Fewer students are dropping out of high school. From 2019 to 2020, the overall statewide high school dropout rate decreased from 4.4% to 3.7%, and it also dropped for every major student group. This continues a trend from 2019, which had also seen a decrease in dropout rates statewide and in every major student group compared to 2018. “Seeing dropout rates continue to decrease is incredibly promising,” Mueller said. “When our school communities rally around students to help them complete high school, we can make a real difference. Dropout prevention begins the moment students walk in the door of our elementary schools and continues until they make it to graduation. I am excited to continue working with school leaders to share effective practices in this critical area.” From press release

Pratt’s legendary Stillwater career ends BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Alexis Pratt closed out a prodigious career as a Stillwater High School athlete at the state track meet on Saturday, June 19. Pratt placed second in both the 100 and 200 meter dashes, after winning both in the Section 4AA meet. She earned her seventh and eighth state sprint medals and her two highest individual finishes. Also a Miss Basketball finalist this winter, she will continue her athletic career in basketball at University of Nebraska-Omaha. Pratt got under 12 seconds in the 100 dash for

the first time as she and Edina’s Maddie Dahlien each hit the tape 11.9 seconds with Dahlein winning by an eyelash. In the 200, Pratt ran a 24.88 and again finished behind Dahlien. Pratt’s school records are the 11.99 and her 24.71 set earlier this year. As a sophomore, Pratt placed fourth in the state 100 dash, fifth in the 200 and second in the 4x100 relay. There was no state meet last year. She anchored state champion 4x100 and 4x200 teams with North St. Paul as an eighth-grader. She had an eighth-place finish in the 100 as a freshman. In basketball, Pratt, a 5-foot-5 guard, scored

1,980 points in four seasons with the Ponies, averaging 18, 16, 18 and 19.9 points, She previously notched 663 points in 7th and 8th grades at North, for a career total of 2,643 points. She ranks second in points for Stillwater behind Sara Scalia’s 2,610. All opponents were forced to play a fast-paced game because of Pratt, also a tenacious defender. The Ponies were 90-21 in her tenure here, and 73-10 with three state trips the last three seasons, with a Class 4A runner-up finish her sophomore year. Pratt was named Pioneer Press East Metro Player of the Year as a senior.

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Alexis Pratt (right) and Edina’s Maddie Dahlien each hit the tape at 11.99 seconds in the 100 at state Friday. Dahlien won in a photo finish.

We are excited to continue to refine our products to meet the needs of our readers and advertisers, specifically in Washington County. The area continues to grow in arts and entertainment, tourism, and the prospect of exploring the great outdoors. We are excited to deliver our new and improved news-magazine monthly. You will notice expanded content including arts and entertainment features and outdoors articles. The Lowdown will expand its page content and circulation by being published monthly. As always, our website will still provide daily and weekly updates online. As people in Washington County look for shopping, dining and outdoor activities, we become the ‘feet on the street’ on what’s happening. We continue to hear people say they look to The Lowdown to plan their weekend, whether its a happy hour special, dinner date, night out, bird watching, hiking, biking, boating, fishing or activities with the kids or grandkids. To continue receiving The Lowdown monthly, please submit your subscription below:

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OUTDOOR EVENING YOGA When: 6 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, through Sept. 30. Where: Lake Elmo Park Reserve, north picnic pavilion, County Roads 10 and 19. Details: Guided yoga for all levels. $8/person; reservations required. Contact: 651-430-8370 or co.washington.mn.us, search “outdoor yoga.”

LIBRARY IN THE PARK When and where: 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays in Forest Lake, July 7 at Fenway Park; July 21 at Cedar Park; Aug. 4 at Beltz Park; and Aug. 18 at Lakeside Memorial Park. Details: Outdoor library events meet residents in their local spaces and include books, activities, take and make projects, and more. Weather permitting; check website for updates. Contact: washcolib.org/events.

SING AND PLAY AT THE LIBRARY When: Mondays, July 12, July 19, & July 26 from 10 to 11 a.m. Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Road North in Forest Lake. Meet at Hardwood Creek library's courtyard on their yoga mats to sing and act out

songs, rhymes, and stories. Stick around after for outdoor play. Recommended for children ages 0-6 years old. Registration is required. Register online at WashCoLib. org or call 651-275-7300.

MAHTOMEDI FARMERS MARKET When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays through Oct. 2. Where: Veteran's Memorial Park, Mahtomedi Avenue and Stillwater Road. Details: Vegetables, flowers, and other goods from local vendors. Community Resource table. Contact: mahtomedifarmersmarket@ gmail.com.

MINNESOTA BOOK CLUB When: Wednesday, July 14 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Road North in Forest Lake. The Minnesota Book Club meets monthly to discuss books set in Minnesota or books written by Minnesota authors. Our book this month is “The Lager Queen of Minnesota” by J. Ryan Stradal. We will meet outside in the courtyard,

weather permitting. Please bring a chair if you can. No registration required.

TEEN ART CART When: Wednesdays, July 14, July 21 & July 28 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Where and details: Drop by Hardwood Creek Library and try a self-guided craft in the teen area. Projects allow teens to expand on their own design though creativity and imagination. For ages 11-18 only. No registration required. This program is brought to you in part by the Clean Water and Land Legacy Amendment.

LIBRARY IN THE PARK When and where: 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays in Hugo, July 14 at Hanifl Fields Park; July 28 at Oneka Lake Park; Aug. 11 at Arcand Park; and Aug. 25 at Val Jean Park. Details: Outdoor library events meet residents in their local spaces and include books, activities, take and make projects, and more. Weather permitting; check website for updates. Contact: washcolib.org/ events.

JULY 2021

KNITS AND KNOTS FIBER ARTS GROUP When: Monday, July 19 from Noon to 2 p.m. Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Road North in Forest Lake. Details: Knitters, quilters, crocheters, and spinners meet the third Monday of every month. All crafts and abilities welcome. Bring your current project to work on and ask questions about next steps, share your expertise with others, or simply come to get inspired and converse with this growing group. No registration required.

GAMMELGÅRDEN’S KURBITS PAINTING CLASS WITH DIANE EDWARDS When: July 19 – 21. Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: $175 member, $200 nonmember. Details: This three-day Kurbits painting class is designed for students of all skill levels. You will paint traditional and fun designs in the Swedish tradition appropriate for your skill level. Instructor, Diane Edwards, has studied folk art for 30 years and is the author of eight books on Swedish

and Norwegian Folk Art — painting primarily on wood and traditional objects made from wood such as plates, bowls, trunks, boxes and other handmade wooden pieces. Her books are written for the beginner to intermediate painters who would like to learn traditional painting techniques. Reservations are required. To register call (651) 433-5053 or email gammelgardenlynne@ frontiernet.net (a list of supplies will be provided upon registration). Tor & Tilda Family Tours Explore the Gammelgården with your family as Tora & Tilda, our beloved tomte and cat, have created fun tours of the museum’s historic buildings buildings for all to enjoy. Experience the daily life of early immigrant families in Minnesota through a Swedish lens. Dates: July 9,10, August 13,14, September 10, 11. Time: 10 a.m. to Noon. Cost: $25 per family (limit 6), children must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations Required: (651) 433-5053. Recommended Ages: 7 years and older.

COUNTY BRIEFS County board approves building naming policy The Washington County Board of Commissioners has approved a policy for naming county-owned buildings. The policy provides a description of what facilities will be affected by the policy and outlines a process for considering names for facilities. The policy also sets out criteria for names, saying facilities should be given names that reflect the surrounding geographical and natural features, and the historical significance of the county. Facilities will not be named for individuals or cities. County will participate in DNR snowmobile trail program Washington County Parks will participate in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) snowmobile trails assistance program. The county administers the program for the Star Trail Association. The board entered into an agreement with the Star Trail Association in 1991, whereby the county agreed to sponsor the snowmobile club and act as a pass-through agency for funds from the DNR snowmobile trail maintenance and grooming grants-in-aid program. The snowmobile club cannot receive the grant funding directly. The grant varies from year to year, but averages around $42,000. Board conducts public hearing on county development code The Board of Commissioners conducted a public hearing earlier this month to consider amendments to the Washington County Development Code to enable coordination of membership between the Planning Advisory Commission (PAC) and the Board of Adjustment and Appeals (BAA) as recommended by the Planning Advisory Commission. In 2018, a significant amount of land use authority was assumed by townships, resulting in a reduction in the volume of work for the PAC and BAA, with less frequent meetings. That created practical challenges for the efficient functioning of the committees and for making effective use of the time of residents who serve as members. The county board has reviewed the potential changes and set the public hearing to receive public comments on the changes. To implement the changes, sections of the development code that set out the makeup of the two boards need to be repealed and replaced. The board referred the issue to the PAC for its study, report, and recommendation. Under the merger, the county will maintain the two boards, with identical membership, with seven members

each. Meetings will be conducted on the same date, one after the other. The transition to the new configuration of the PAC and BAA would occur as individual appointments expire or resignations occur, and no current member will be asked to relinquish an appointment. County will participate in DNR snowmobile trail program Washington County Parks will participate in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) snowmobile trails assistance program. The county administers the program for the Star Trail Association. The board entered into an agreement with the Star Trail Association in 1991, whereby the county agreed to sponsor the snowmobile club and act as a passthrough agency for funds from the DNR snowmobile trail maintenance and grooming grants-in-aid program. The snowmobile club cannot receive the grant funding directly. The grant varies from year to year, but averages around $42,000. Participation in Performance Measurement Program Washington County will continue to participate in the Performance Measurement Program and submit the report on the 11 standard measures created by the Council on Local Results and Innovation to the Office of the State Auditor. This is the 11th year that the county has participated. In 2010, the Legislature created the Council on Local Results and Innovation, tasked with creating a standard set of 10 measures for cities and 10 measures for counties. Participation in the standard measures program is voluntary. A county that elects to participate in the program may be eligible for a reimbursement of 14 cents per capita in county program aid, not to exceed $25,000. The county will report the results of the 10 adopted measures to residents on the county website at www.co.washington.mn.us/performancemeasures, as well as including the report in its budget documents and filing a copy with the Office of the State Auditor. County will receive funds to help decrease auto theft Washington County will receive $116,200 in an auto theft prevention grant from the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The money will be used over the next two years. The Washington County Attorney's Office has

received this specific grant since 2005. The grant amount fluctuates with each grant cycle. Historic courthouse expanding guided tours The Washington County Historic Courthouse is expanding guided tours to three tours a day Wednesday through Sunday, and evening tours Thursday and Friday. Tours at the Historic Courthouse will be at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Tours will also be at 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Visitors will enjoy a short introductory video before viewing the courtroom, 1900s county jail, and exhibitions, and hear stories of the building’s construction, offices, and the people who worked at the courthouse. The tours are free; donations are accepted. To ensure the best tour experience, public tours are limited to 10 participants per tour guide. Large groups will be divided for a tour rotation. Those visiting with a large group of 10 or more may call 651-275-7075 to make arrangements. Unscheduled tour groups may be asked to tour the building without a guide. The Washington County Historic Courthouse is at the corner of Pine and Third streets in Stillwater. See the county website at co.washington.mn.us and search “Historic Courthouse” for more information about the building and activities planned in it, or call 651-275-7075 or email historiccourthouse@co.washington.mn.us for more information. Spot mowing, spraying for noxious weeds begins Washington County staff will be spot mowing and spraying for noxious weeds along the more than 220 miles of rural roadsides through July 30, and again in October. This is being done to help comply with Minnesota noxious weed law administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. Mowing will be used to prevent seed set and the following herbicides will be used to spray mowed area: Escort XP, Milestone VM and Liberate. Property owners who do not want their roadside sprayed or mowed and are willing to take responsibility for controlling and eradicating noxious weeds on the adjacent roadside may visit the Washington County North Shop at 11660 Myeron Road in Stillwater Township to obtain signage, or call 651-430-4300. Be prepared to provide an address, the nearest cross street, and a description of where “do not spray” signs will be located.

READ • REUSE • RECYCLE THE

Lowdown

If every person takes one small step toward being more conscientious of the environment, the collective effort will change the planet. 651-407-1200 • presspubs.com

[Think GREEN]

JULY 2021

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BOO CREATIVE | SUBMITTED

Chamber welcomes TrainTrax Snacks The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce welcomed The Zephyr Theatre expansion business, TrainTrax Snacks to the chamber with a ribbon cutting celebration on June 16. Calyssa Hall, executive director of The Zephyr Theatre, cut the ribbon. TrainTrax Snacks of the Zephyr Theatre and partners Valley Friendship Club, The Goodery, Bridge City Roasting Co, Lift Bridge Brewing, Gateway Brown’s Creek Trail Association, Hoppel Poppel Breads, Candyland, Xssant, and the chamber members and staff were there to join in the celebration. The event took place outside by the Brown’s Creek Trail at 601 Main Street N. in Stillwater.

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JULY EVENTS *Note: Events are subject to change or be cancelled due to the COVID-19 crisis. Please call or visit the websites or Facebook pages, for the most up-to-date information. July 1 July 3 July 3 July 3-4 July 4 July 4 July 6 July 7 July 8 July 10 July 10-11 July 10 July 10 July 10 July 11 July 11 July 11 July 11 July 11 July 13 July 15 July 15 July 15 July 16-17 July 16 July 16 July 17 July 17 July 18 July 18 July 18 July 18 July 18 July 20 July 20 July 22 July 24 July 25 July 25 July 25 July 29

Captain Dan’s Music Jam Yoga at Winehaven Live Music Saturday Red, White and Sangria Two Dollar Tight Blues Yoga in the Vines Live Music: Tuscany Trio Live Music: Redpath Captain Dan’s Music Jam Live Music Saturday Wine Meets Art Festival Flower Pop-up with T and Nae Bazaar Annual Rhubarb Frenzy! Music with Jeff Brooks Yoga in the Vines Live Music: The Flannel Brothers Live Music: Mississippi Mud Vintage Car Show Live Music: Becky Rae Dalton Farmers and Artisans Markets Music with The Swongos Captain Dan’s Music Jam Tony Ortiz Duo Art at the Winery – Paint & Sip Live Music: Matthew Griswold Live Music Saturday Yoga in the Vines Music with Tyler Herwig Two Dollar Tight Blues Yoga by the Vines Live Music: Garret Mcphae Live Music: DJ Greg Farmers Market Live Music: Gary LaRue Captain Dan’s Music Jam Dinner & Comedy Music with The Riverside Hitmen Toast, Taste and Paddle Yoga in the Vines Captain Dan’s Music Jam

5-8:30 pm 11am 1-4 pm 12-5 pm 3-6 pm 10-11 am 5:30 5:30 5-8:30 pm 1-4 pm 11 am-5 pm 1-5 pm 12-6 pm 10a to 5p 3-6 pm 10-11 am 1p-4p 1p-4p 12p 5:30 4-7 pm 4-7 pm 5-8:30 pm 5-9 pm 6-8:30 pm 5p-8p 1-4 pm 10-11 am 3-6 pm 3-6 pm 11 am 1p-4p 1P 2p 5:30 5-8:30 pm 6:30-9 pm 3-6 pm 9 am-3:30 pm 10-11 am 5-8:30 pm

Roma Restaurant Winehaven Winery St. Croix Vineyards St. Croix Vineyards Roma Restaurant St. Croix Vineyards 7 Vines Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard Roma Restaurant St. Croix Vineyards St. Croix Vineyards Rustic Roots Dancing Dragonfly Winehaven Winery Rustic Roots St. Croix Vineyards Belle Vinez Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard Rustic Roots Rustic Roots Roma Restaurant Roma Restaurant Dancing Dragonfly Belle Vinez Vineyard St. Croix Vineyards St. Croix Vineyards Rustic Roots Roma Restaurant Dancing Dragonfly Belle Vinez Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard 7 Vines Vineyard Roma Restaurant Dancing Dragonfly Rustic Roots St. Croix Vineyards St. Croix Vineyards Roma Restaurant

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DATE

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Cozying up with Gove’s goats BY NOELLE OLSON STAFF WRITER

Nestled in the city of Lake Elmo lies a small goat farm called Gove’s Goats. The owners, Scott and Tina Gove, have turned their love of goats into a business by providing services to clients that involve the presence of goats: a party with a goat, goat pizza parties, goat bingo and goat yoga. The couple also has a unique venue for rent that includes goats. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Goves would transport their five goats to a party. “We would take them out with our goat trailer and we were all over the place. We worked with Stanley’s Bar in north Minneapolis and Lift Bridge Brewery, which was great to work with. I hired a yoga instructor and we were there almost every Wednesday night — people were having a blast,” Scott said. “We started to get very busy and then COVID hit.” Last summer, the couple had friends and family over for outdoor pizza parties and said they were a big hit. It got them to thinking, “Maybe we can bring the people here to party with the goats.” Tina said they started to open up their farm on certain Friday nights, and it just picked up from there. “Last year because people couldn’t go out, they were going stir crazy, so this was very

Two-year-old Finella MacleodRoth feeds one of the goats at the Gove’s Goats pizza party Friday, June 11.

COVID-friendly,” she said. “The pizza parties started last fall, and now we offer pizza parties twice a month just for fun. We love our goats, and it’s a good way for us to share the goats.” Scott said the neat thing about having the goat parties at their farm is that it’s family-friendly and they don’t have to haul the goats around the cities. “What I found out when we were at some of these bars, (is that) people would get intoxicated and start picking up the goats and stuff like that. Here, we don’t have to worry about that, and our goats are safe,” he said.

PHOTOS BY NOELLE OLSON | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The owners of Gove’s Goats, Scott and Tina Gove.

Tina said their goats are friendly, sociable and love being fed. People need to be aware that the goats could pee or poop at any time and occasionally like to jump on the tables, but they are the veritable life of the party. Gove’s Goats offers parties on Thursday nights. Scott noted that children’s birthday parties are a big hit with both kids and their adults. “They can make tie-dye shirts, play

goat bingo, ride the kid train and feed the goats,” he said. In July, pizza parties are switching to every other Saturday. The Goves are considering hosting Sunday parties in the fall. “There’s something about these families that come here. I’ve had couples come up to me and tell me, ‘Families don’t do stuff like this anymore, it’s all games and stuff online,’” Scott said. “It’s

been really rewarding. You know how they say, ‘Find something you like to do and try to make a living at it?’ It’s really true. I look forward to these Friday night pizza parties even after a long day at work, and it doesn’t seem like work to me.” For more information, go to the Gove’s Goats Facebook page or its website at govesgoats.com.

MANNING AVENUE

Stillwater Hwy. 36/Manning Ave. Detour

LAKE ELMO AVENUE

The Highway 36/Manning Ave. Interchange Project is expected to continue for two years. Manning Ave. will be closed from Highway 36 to 62nd Street and traffic will be detoured to Lake Elmo Ave., from the South and East of the intersection. The detour will then take drivers North to 75th St. N. (CR 12), and then back East to Manning Ave. Access to several businesses will be affected. Traffic signal modifications on Highway 36 will take place, and a temporary road will be constructed for residents of the Sanctuary neighborhood to the South of the intersection. Anyone driving from the White Bear Lake/Mahtomedi area or other points West of Lake Elmo Ave., can access Manning Ave. via CR 96, CR 12, or the detour on Lake Elmo Ave. For more information, go to: co.washington. mn.us/2662/TH-36-and-Manning-Avenue-Interchange.

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12 THE LOWDOWN

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Abundant area beaches offer relief from summer’s heat BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

If June has been any indication, the summer of 2021 will cause many in the area to seek swimming beaches as an alternative to air conditioning. When they do, they will find plenty of choices. In Washington County, large, sandy beaches await beachgoers at Big Marine Lake and Square Lake parks. Square Lake County Park hosted an estimated 140,000 visitors compared to Big Marine’s 105,000 in 2020. This may be in part because of the nature of Square Lake itself. Guest Services Supervisor J.J. Williams explains, “The beach is a bigger draw at Square Lake, mainly because of the water quality.” The water is famously clear and popular with divers, and the park has been labeled a “special recreational feature” by the Metropolitan Council. This year, the Lake Elmo Swim Pond will be the only guarded facility in the Washington County park system, from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday-

Monday. To enter Washington County parks, a $7/day visitor pass is required; free admission is available on select Tuesdays. There is a large and popular beach facility on the west shore of Centerville Lake, part of the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. It is close to both the picnic area and campground, and adjacent to a trail system that circumscribes the lake. There will not be a lifeguard on duty this season. $6/day vehicle pass required. A few cities maintain beaches, some of which could be described as wellkept secrets. Mahtomedi Beach, on the southeast shore of White Bear Lake, has restrooms, exterior showers, a sandy beach and extended sand play area. There will be lifeguards on duty every day from noon to 8 p.m. through August 21. Visitors to Lakeside Beach in Forest Lake will find a beach with plenty of sun and sand. It may not be staffed with lifeguards, but it does have

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Two kayakers launch from Lakeside Beach in Forest Lake for some quality time out on Forest Lake.

restrooms, changing areas, exterior showers, and an adjacent playground. With a hot start to summer and lifeguards on duty at only a minority

of beaches in the area, swimmer safety is a concern. Visitors are advised to be familiar with and observe park rules.

Fresh fish: Get in the game this summer 3. Combine 1 cup flour and 1 tsp. baking powder in a bowl; whisk in 1 cup cold beer 4. Dip fish into batter, and fry until golden brown

More than a million fishing licenses are sold annually in Minnesota. Fishing—and eating fish—is part of our collective DNA. We’ve been casting to our lakes, rivers and neighborhood ponds for generations. There may be no better representation of the natural bounty of our state than the summer fish fry. Fried fish is timeless, and goes well with other pleasures of summer like fruit salad and anything from the garden. These meals can be made wherever you can heat oil, whether that be at home or the cabin, in a campsite or on some distant shore. Where taste and texture are concerned, fresh fish (not frozen) is considered best. After cleaning, rinse and dry the fillets. Seal in a container with as little air as possible, and store in refrigerator or on ice for up to a couple of days.

10,000 Fish & Chips A battered-and-fried way to enjoy our state fish, the walleye, as well as perch, white bass or even Northern pike. A Minnesota classic like Grain Belt makes a fine beer batter. Pair with hot steak fries or try making your own “chips” with potatoes from one of our local farmer’s markets. Serve with malt vinegar or honey mustard. 1. Heat a generous amount of oil to about 350 degrees 2. Cut fish into manageable pieces, dredge with flour, and shake off excess

Northern Border Tacos A great way to spice up your average Tuesday. Cabbage brings a cool crunch, and a creamy sauce pulls everything together. Layer fish in a white flour tortilla with red onion, cilantro, thinly-sliced cabbage and sauce. 1. Divide fillets into smaller pieces 2. Pat dry and dip in egg 3. Coat in Shore Lunch or seasoned flour 4. Fry in oil until flaky FISH TACO SAUCE: Combine 3 parts sour cream, 2 parts mayo, enough Louisiana-style hot sauce to give it heat and garlic powder to taste

Catfish Nuggets Yellow corn meal makes a tasty shell for tender, flaky catfish. This preparation can also be used for bullheads, which have a similar flavor and texture. Serve next to a creamy coleslaw, with plain yellow mustard or hot sauce for dipping. 1. Slice across fillets to make 1-inch wide strips 2. Pat dry and roll in flour 3. Dip in beaten eggs and cover in corn meal thoroughly 4. Fry in oil until cornmeal begins to brown

ROY HEILMAN | SUBMITTED

This mouthwatering walleye sandwich uses sourdough bread.

Crispy Fish Sandwiches Perfect for flatter, bun-shaped fillets like crappie; also great for sunfish, white bass, walleye or perch. Fish sandwiches make a classic North Country meal accompanied by pasta salad and Jell-o. 1. Dry fillets, dredge in flour, shake off excess 2. Dip in beaten eggs; cover in crushed cracker or Panko bread crumbs 3. Fry in oil until browned 4. Serve on a Kaiser roll or sourdough bread with tomato, garden greens or thinly-sliced cabbage, and honey mustard or sriracha mayo sauce (below). SRIRACHA MAYO SAUCE: Stir enough sriracha into mayo to give it a bite; add more if preferred. Sweeten with a little honey (optional). 696737

BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Around the Lakes

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4th OF JULY Reminders for Fireworks Safety Awareness Week Prevent Blindness, a nonprofit eye health and safety organization, has declared June 28-July 4 Fireworks Safety Awareness Week to help educate the public on the dangers of fireworks. Whether at home or by attending professional displays, fireworks seriously injure thousands of people every year, with some injuries even resulting in death. Burns were reported to be the most common injury to hands, fingers, arms and legs. However, contusions and lacerations were the most frequent injuries to eyes, which included foreign bodies in the eye. Recently, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued a report comparing product injury estimate data from March 2020 through September 2020, to the estimate data from March 2019 through September 2019. The report showed that emergency department visits for injuries involving fireworks increased significantly — by 56%, the highest percentage injury increase across all age groups of any product tracked during this time period. In addition, more than 79% of fireworks-related injuries occurred at home in the 2020 period whereas an estimated 68% of fireworksrelated injuries occurred at home in 2019. Additionally, a recent online survey of U.S. adults from the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) found that 39% of parents said that children age 5 to 7 should be allowed to handle sparklers. Yet sparklers can burn up to 1,800 degrees. And, 27% of parents responded that children age 11 to 15 should be allowed to handle fireworks, even though data shows that children younger than 15 years of age account for 36 percent of estimated fireworks-related injuries. The AAO survey also found that: • 33% overall know someone injured by fireworks or have been injured by fireworks. • 8% report being injured by fireworks. • 27% knew someone else injured by fireworks. For more information on the dangers of fireworks, visit preventblindness.org/fireworks.

Calendar of events for July 4: White Bear Lake What: Bluegrass 4th of July Where: Outdoor stage at Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave. When: 12:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $10 for each individual band; $20 for all day and to see all three What: Fireworks show Where: White Bear Lake. West Park or Memorial Beach When: 10 p.m. Forest Lake What: Carnival When: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. What: Bingo Where: Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W Broadway Ave. When: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. What: Breakfast: Where: Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W Broadway Ave. When: 9 to 11 a.m. What: Lunch & dinner: Where: Forest Lake American Legion, 355 W Broadway Ave. When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. What: Music Where: Lakeside Memorial Park, 95 E Broadway Ave. When: St. Croix Crossings from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Charlie O from 8 to 10 p.m. What: Fireworks When: 10 p.m. Where: Lakeside Memorial Park, 95 E Broadway Ave, Forest Lake Blaine What: Fireworks Where: National Sports Center, 1700 105th Ave NE When: 10 p.m. Stillwater *No fireworks this year What: Free live music When: Junk FM Band from 5:30-7 p.m.; St. Croix Jazz orchestra from 7-9 p.m.; Bootleg from 8-9:30 p.m. Where: Amphitheater Stage in Lowell Park (201 Water St) & Pioneer Park Bandshell (515 N. 2nd St.)

World snow sculpting event coming to Stillwater STILLWATER — The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce (Chamber), in partnership with the city of Stillwater, will bring the World Snow Sculpting Championship to Stillwater. It will be held in Lowell Park on Jan. 19-23, 2022, in association with the World Snow Sculpting Championship LLC (WSSC), a Wisconsin-based company that will bring in teams from around the world to create amazing snow sculptures while they compete for prize money and the title of World Champions. This will be a collaborative effort with the city, businesses, nonprofits, civic organizations and schools to bring a world-class event to the Stillwater area. The judged event will include several social events and ceremonies for sponsors, teams, the public and various dignitaries. The sculpting event will be sanctioned by the Finland-based Association Internationale de Sculpture sur Neige

et Glase (International Association of Snow and Ice Sculpture). It starts with freshly made snow that is put into large 8-foot by 8-foot by 10-foot forms. The fun then begins with volunteers and sponsors, who will go inside the large forms and stomp the snow to get it firm and ready for carving. Creating these blocks of snow begins on Monday, and the teams will begin sculpting their block of snow on Wednesday at 11 a.m. Teams must be finished on Saturday at 11 a.m. Spectators can come to watch the entire process and visit with the teams. On Saturday, spectators can vote for their favorite team. The team with the most votes will win “The People’s Choice Award.” “This event will bring tens of thousands of people to Stillwater to view world-class snow sculpting, create local and international excitement, and provide an economic impact boost during the first quarter

for our local businesses,” said Robin Anthony, chamber executive director. “We are hoping to make this a winter tradition.” WSSC and its affiliate, Winter Fun USA, has been working with the city of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, for the past 26 years to produce the United States National Snow Sculpting Championship, which has turned into a popular winter tradition. The 2020 event brought in more than 60,000 visitors and delivered a $3.1 million economic impact to that region. “We are thrilled to have our city, the birthplace of Minnesota, host a worldwide event that is family friendly and provides an awesome experience,” Mayor Ted Kozlowski said. “Our historic town of Stillwater has so much to offer, and we continue to make our state proud.” Stay tuned for more details and information as the event planning begins. The chamber will form a task force and is looking for volunteers,

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investors, and sponsorships. For more information, or to be a sponsor, contact the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce at info@ greaterstillwaterchamber.com or 651439-4001. From news release

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NAMES IN THE NEWS

BUSINESS BRIEFS

WCHS hires new Warden’s House Museum manager Emily Krawczewski, of Hugo, has been named by the Washington County Historical Society as the new Warden's House Museum site manager. She began her journey into history and heritage as a tour guide for the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. She graduated from Miami University in Ohio with a degree in mass communications and earned her master’s degree in library and information science with archives concentration from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee while serving as the digital collections Emily Krawczewski intern at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Emily and her husband Taylor moved from Nashville to his home state of Minnesota in 2021.

Music Connection receives award Music Connection in Forest Lake has been named a top 100 dealer by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), the global association of music instruments and pro audio products. The award honors retail music dealers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their stores, neighborhoods and customers, and share in a vision to create a more musical world through their local communities. To learn more about Music Connection, go to ConnectWithMusic.com or the store located at 77 Eighth Ave. SW in Forest Lake. Ice cream dreams in the St. Croix Valley The Ice Cream Dreams promotion is running throughout the summer, offering a buy one, get one free punch card to some of the St. Croix Valley’s ice cream shops. All proceeds benefit Youth Advantage, an organization supporting the arts, educational enrichment and athletic dreams of students from families in need from Stillwater area schools, along with access to tutoring and mentoring opportunities. The program runs Mondays to Thursdays through September (excluding holidays) and is good for one use at each shop. The $20 BOGO punch card (cash or check only) is available for purchase at the participating ice cream shops or at Cub Foods in Stillwater. Full details can be found at youthadvantage.org/ icecreamdreams.

Holly Newton

Stillwater alumna wins federal award for medical device Stillwater native Holly Newton and a team of other NASA employees and contractors received the Notable Technology Award for Technology Transfer from the Federal Laboratory Consortium for a human-powered ventilator design. The award was given for their work on a medical device that Newton first designed in 2017 as a NASA Pathways intern at the request of a NASA flight surgeon. Newton is a 2014 graduate from Stillwater Area High School and a 2019 aerospace engineering and mechanics graduate from the University of Minnesota.

KRISTINA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN | SUBMITTED

Veteran prosecuter joins Eckberg Lammers Eckberg Lammers Law Firm in Stillwater announced the addition of Imran Ali to the firm as a shareholder, attorney, and Director of Law Enforcement Education & Training. He joins the firm after serving over seventeen years as a felony-level prosecutor for the Washington County Attorney’s Office where he tried complex cases including homicide, rape, domestic violence, narcotics related and burglary. In 2014, he spearheaded the East Metro Human Traffic Taskforce — one of the first trafficking task Imran Ali forces in the state of Minnesota. For the past five years, Imran has prosecuted national and international sex trafficking rings, trained and presented to thousands of officers and prosecutors, helped draft legislation and testified for stiffer penalties for sex trafficking offenders.

KRISTINA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN | SUBMITTED

Chamber welcomes Forge and Foundry Distillery

Wildwood Kitchens and Baths holds ribbon cutting

Christie Wanderer and Andrew Mosiman, owners of Forge and Foundry Distillery, cut the ribbon at the chamber welcome celebration on June 3. The event took place at 223 Main Street N. in Stillwater. Greater Stillwater Chamber ambassadors and staff were there to join in the celebration.

The Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce welcomed Wildwood Kitchens and Baths to the chamber and community with a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 3. The event took place at 12445 55th Street N. in Lake Elmo. Owner Janel Swanson, staff and family, chamber staff and ambassadors participated in the celebration.

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Developer announces tenant for downtown project BY SHANNON GRANHOLM LEAD EDITOR

HUGO — A 7,000-square-foot restaurant with a 2,500-square-foot patio overlooking Egg Lake may be coming to downtown Hugo. The developer of the project, Dennis Properties, announced last week that it has entered into a letter of intent for leasing the restaurant and patio to Patrick Conroy. Conroy, a Hugo resident, owns 11 restaurants in the Twin Cities, including Muddy Cow, Muddy Chicken, Mad Cow and MC’s Tap House. “We are a family-friendly establishment where good food and family fun are served daily,” Conroy said. “We look forward to broadening our dining services with youth sports and other community organizations around Hugo.” The City Council approved a purchase agreement for $1 for the city-owned prop-

erty across Highway 61 from City Hall last December. At that time, the plan included 89,000 square feet of building space with 200 parking stalls. Some key features of the project could include a downtown pier and a pedestrian-friendly Main Street. “We are very excited that Patrick Conroy will be opening a restaurant in downtown Hugo. We believe his concept is a great fit with the project, and we have no doubt this will be a very successful location,” said Denny Trooien, CEO of Dennis Properties. Dennis Properties is working with SRF Consulting to assist with planning and permitting and with Collage Architects for the design of the buildings and the site. The Downtown Hugo proposal is still in the planning stages, and needs to go through a myriad of approvals and permits. The development would likely be built in five phases, with the first phase to include the restaurant. Trooien said

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Here is an architect’s rendering of what downtown Hugo may look like by 2022.

construction is expected to begin later this year and be complete in 2022. Community Development Director Rachel Juba said Dennis Properties has not applied for any land use approvals as yet, but is working on a plan and meeting with various entities.

“This is an exciting and ambitious project” Trooien said. “We’re going to do this right and when we’re done these buildings will look very historic.” Lead Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or quadnews@presspubs.com.

Good Samaritans perform random acts of kindness

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The Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans at one of their cleanup events in April. Founder Mike Kaiser is holding their Community Involvement award the group received in March. BY NOELLE OLSON STAFF WRITER

While taking a morning run through Forest Lake after a stormy night four years ago, financial adviser Mike Kaiser had an inspirational idea. “I noticed a bunch of trees and branches down and thought to myself, ‘It would be fun to randomly show up at someone's house and clean up their yard and say, ‘It's on the house,’” Kaiser said. And that's just what he did. He went home and told his wife, Sonja, about getting a group of volunteers together to help with the cleanup from the storm. She loved the idea, so her husband sprang into action. “I went and posted on Nextdoor and asked if anyone would be interested in helping out, and 37 people responded — and that's how it all started,” he said. The Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans group was established with Kaiser as the founder of the group. Jackie Loose was one of those people who responded to the Nextdoor post. “I went to the first meeting and I’ve been hooked ever since,” she said. She is currently a board member and the treasurer of the group. When Kaiser’s longtime friend Melissa Lundmark heard about the group, she said she definitely knew she wanted to join. She is now the vice-president of the nonprofit organization. “I remember one time when my youngest son Chase, who was 16 at the time, came with me to volunteer and he wasn’t having a very good morning. But when we left the job he said, ‘Mom, that really feels good, doesn’t it?’” Lundmark said. This inspired one of the group’s slogans, “It feels good to do good.” The group doesn't have a hard time finding people in need. They find projects through social media, the news and members of the community.

“What we’ve found out is that a lot of people don’t like to ask for help, so neighbors or family members will contact us if someone needs something done,” Lundmark said. The group has been growing and helping people not only in Forest Lake, but in the cities of Wyoming, Columbus, Stillwater, Hugo and surrounding communities throughout Washington County. The organization relies on funding through sponsors and fundraisers that include a winter plunge and raffles, but they mostly rely on their volunteers. “It’s a good way to meet your neighbors. You not only get to keep your city clean, you get to meet people that you normally wouldn’t get to meet in your daily routine,” Sonja Kaiser said. “We give free T-shirts to all our new volunteers who come out to help, and so far we’ve given away at least 300 shirts. Also, after our cleanup events, the volunteers get a free lunch provided by the Forest Lake Lions,” Kaiser added. Back in March, the Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans received a Community Involvement award from Community Thread. The nonprofit also launched a “March into Spring” event, where they challenged people to perform a random act of kindness for someone every day for 31 days. “One of the challenges was a gas pump giveaway, where I paid for a lady’s gas with our Good Samaritan debit card,” Kaiser said. “I filmed the whole thing live on Facebook, and Jackie called me and said, ‘I can clearly see our PIN number when you punched it into the pump.’” Needless to say, the PIN number has changed. The group is part of a “cleanest city in America” competition that began with the city of Salisbury in Maryland. Now, there are approximately 35 cities throughout the country who participate in the “just for fun” competition. With the help of 55

volunteers in April, the group collected 187 bags of trash in two hours and was consequently crowned the cleanest city in America. Group members were featured on KARE 11 News. Since the organization began, group members have left May Day baskets and plants on random people's doors throughout the community. “It’s just great seeing their faces, and they are so thankful,” Lundmark said. “We now donate a plant each month to the Cherrywood and Birchwood senior centers (in Forest Lake),” Kaiser added. The group has attracted the attention of the Forest Lake Police Department, Mayor Mara Bain, Fire Chief Al Newman and other city officials who are very supportive of the nonprofit’s cleanup efforts. “The city is using us as a resource now if someone needs something,” Kaiser said. The next cleanup event will take place right after the Forest Lake Fourth of July celebration on July 1-4. Kaiser wasn't certain of the exact date at press time but noted that people can find that information on the group’s Facebook page. The group is always looking for sponsors, volunteers and anyone who needs a helping hand. “It’s nice when they sponsor or volunteer, because they feel a part of it and it becomes a part of them,” Loose said. Part of the mission of the Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans is to create a stronger community through doing good deeds for its neighbors and help spread kindness to surrounding communities. “It's really about doing something nice for someone else — pay it forward,” Kaiser said. For more information on the Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans visit its Facebook page or website at goodsamaritansfla.com.

Forest Lake Area Good Samaritans volunteers Antonio Pleitez, Mike Kaiser, Kathy Garry and Melissa Lundmark wearing their “Pay it Forward” t-shirts.

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This graph shows how many days it would take for the entire world to receive a random act of kindness if everybody who received one random act of kindness and reciprocated with three acts of kindness.

SOME OF THE GOOD DEEDS PERFORMED OVER THE YEARS BY THE FOREST LAKE AREA GOOD SAMARITANS: • Gave financial assistance to a single parent of two special needs children, one in the middle of an extended hospital stay. • Moved a man from Chisago to Forest Lake. • Replaced broken blinds in a veteran’s home. • Shoveled snow for those who needed help. • Provided financial assistance to a family suffering the loss of a child who was struck by a snowmobile. • Worked with the watershed district to paint warnings by storm drains to protect the lakes from problem discharges. • Performed yard work — mowing, raking and clearing overgrown paths for a neighbor. • Painted a deck. • Raised money to help purchase hearing aids. • Helped families with auto repairs. • Provided transportation. • Replaced a furnace and fixed two roofs. • Assisted four families involved in house fires with gift cards and cash donations.

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Deciphering the origins of ‘Da Fishi Code’ with Dan Brown BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Taylors Falls author Dan Brown has a story to tell. Actually, lots of them. That’s not unexpected for an avid hunter and angler, trout fishing guide and father. But it never hurts if you’ve gotten good at telling your tales. Though he grew up in Golden Valley, Brown says, “I did half my growing up in Remer,” at the family’s lake home. Year-round visits there fostered independence and discovery: “My brother and I were set free … doing the Huck Finn bit.” No doubt those idyllic times jump-started Brown’s love of fishing and collecting stories. Over hundreds of installments to his column in the Chisago County Press, he has connected readers to his experiences, ranging from introspective to silly. Seventyfive selections make up his new book, “Da Fishi Code,” published by Beaver’s Pond Press of Saint Paul. I got to know Dan a little last week and learned that his pool of experiences is probably deep enough to land another book or two. RH: What makes your inner outdoorsman tick? DB: I have always felt that getting outdoors and enjoying nature through fishing and hunting is the necessary counterbalance I need in my life. Life and work and other factors can cause stress and a measure of anxiety, so it seems like I have something internal that tells me it is time to get outdoors and ‘reset’ my mind.

RH: Do you have a favorite trout fishing destination? DB: Favorites include a number of the Lake Superior tributaries, such as the Bois Brule River up near Brule, Wisconsin, as well as a number of rivers from Duluth right on up the North Shore of Lake Superior on the Minnesota side. Also, the fall chinook salmon run on the Pere Marquette River in Michigan is a favorite. Thirty-pound salmon on the fly rod is an experience like no other. RH: What is the best part of helping a fly rod first-timer? DB: I am eternally pleased when past clients keep in contact and let me know they have continued with fly-fishing. There have been many folks over the years who were profoundly affected by their experience catching their first trout on a fly rod. It is gratifying. RH: How did you wind up guiding anglers? DB: I began guiding for trout in 1999 at Seven Pines Lodge in Lewis, Wisconsin. I knew the owners of the lodge and one day, while I was there fishing for fun, they asked me if I'd like to become the trout guide for their guests. I did that for about 12-13 years, and it was there my two sons, Anders and Augie, really learned to cast and fish with a fly rod. RH: Are your sons as hardcore as you?

DB: Anders (22) is absolutely crazy about fly-fishing. He has taken steelhead fishing to a whole different level. Augie (18) is quite the angler as well but has not yet gone completely ‘round the bend’ like Anders. I wrote a piece that appears near the end of my book titled, “Steelheading the North Shore.” In that story I recount a memorable afternoon catching a number of steelhead with Anders and Augie on the Split Rock River and Stewart River along the North Shore. On that day, I had an opportunity to occasionally sit down and observe them working the water together, and it really struck me how accomplished they both are as fly anglers. RH: What do they do that makes you proud? DB: Both Anders’ and Augie’s academic careers have made Su and me very proud. Anders begins his doctorate of physical therapy program at the University of Puget Sound in the fall, while Augie will begin his undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Anders played baseball for UMD, and Augie will do the same. Both of them have grown to be thoughtful and kind young men. RH: What has been your favorite thing to communicate to readers? DB: Allowing readers to vicariously join me on my fishing and hunting adventures ranks high with me. The process of sitting down in front of the

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Taylors Falls resident and fishing guide Dan Brown recently published “Da Fishi Code,” a collection of 75 essays from his column at Chisago County Press.

computer and writing a true recollection of fishing and hunting experiences is immensely satisfying to me. RH: What do you think has resonated most with readers of your column? DB: I discovered that the ‘how to’ fishing and hunting articles don't resonate nearly as much as a wellcrafted descriptive story about fishing and hunting. I also discovered humorous writing has a broad appeal with readers. I made sure to include a fair number of humorous pieces in the book.

Brown acknowledges a truth of authorship: “I am not getting rich selling these books.” All the same, since October he’s been busy with book signings and adding retailers to his roster. They’re listed on his website, danbrowntrout.com. The public is invited to pick up a copy of “Da Fishi Code” and meet the selfdescribed “best fish fryer in the universe” when he will be signing books at Lake Country Booksellers in White Bear Lake from 10 to 11:30 a.m. July 9.

MMCD: Surveillance key to mosquito control BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

In Minnesota, few things are more synonymous with summer than mosquitoes. Fortunately, those in the seven-county Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) have been getting a break from those tiny pests for more than 60 years. Since 1958, MMCD has been fine-tuning mosquito control in an area which now encompasses more than 3 million residents. The days of spraying clouds of chemicals — which target adult mosquitoes— are a thing of the past here. Instead, control efforts are aimed at mosquito larvae in the ponds, ditches, swamps and other stagnant waters where they develop. Each of more than 200,000 such sites in the district is classified by factors such as location, size, depth, duration of water retention and even the type of mosquitoes that breed there. Treatments are then tailored to site characteristics, rainfall and data collected by on-the-ground monitoring. That data collection process is what Alex Carlson, MMCD public relations coordinator, refers to as “surveillance.” Mosquito control would probably grind to a halt without it. “Surveillance is one of the first steps of our integrated pest management program,” he said. What the public may not know is that surveillance takes multiple forms and is conducted nearly yearround. In the fall, MMCD field technicians survey in certain areas for larvae of one variety, the “cattail mosquito.” Their larvae overwinter, unlike most mosquito varieties. In spring and summer, technicians

disperse almost daily in their familiar white and green trucks to retrieve samples of larvae. Also, throughout the summer they set traps and use nets to collect adult mosquitoes, canvassing for varieties known to transmit diseases to humans. The larvicides used by MMCD are known as methoprene, spinosad, and Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti). Carlson explains they are all compounds that interrupt the development between larval and adult stages and “don’t harm non-target insects, pets or humans.” In fact, spinosad and Bti are derived from naturally occurring bacteria. All are applied in dry, pelletized form and are relatively shortlived in the environment. Carlson underscores how heavily environmental concerns weigh in the decision-making process: “The most common misperception is probably how much research and data goes into every decision that MMCD makes. We consider a lot of factors before making a treatment, and choose the most environmentally friendly method to do it.” Helicopters take to the skies in May to begin applying pellets to larger water-collecting basins. These products are designed to deliver insecticides quickly and have a rapid impact on developing larvae. Smaller sites are usually treated on foot by field technicians. Additional applications occur over the course of the season as needed, which may be as often as every major rain event. Results are generally good, according to Carlson: “[Treatments are] 80 to 100 percent effective, depending on the site.” He explains that since the

MMCD encompasses such a large area, it can achieve better mosquito suppression by utilizing widespread larval control. This is in contrast to spraying for adult mosquitoes, which is more localized and doesn’t account for their ability to travel miles from their source. But while modern mosquito control efforts may concentrate on the larval stages, that doesn’t mean they never use sprays. When surveillance discovers certain disease-carrying varieties, MMCD personnel will apply insecticides such as Permethrin via backpack sprayer in order to kill adult mosquitoes. Varieties of particular concern are those that have the potential to transmit devastating diseases like LaCrosse encephalitis, Eastern equine encephalitis (fatal in 30% of cases), and West Nile virus. Carlson credits MMCD’s surveillance and control measures in part for the fact that Minnesota reported zero cases of West Nile in 2020. In addition to rigorous mosquito control, the MMCD conducts monitoring of ticks and tick-borne diseases. Specifically, deer ticks and the locally rare Lone Star tick have the potential to spread a variety of diseases like babesiosis, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis. MMCD also treats select rivers annually with Bti for biting gnats. Media attention has been focused recently on biting gnat concentrations in the south metro area, which Carlson describes as “no public health risk, really, just a nuisance.” More information about the work of the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, including daily helicopter activity updates and interactive maps, can be found at its website, mmcd.org.

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New Challenges, Inc. provides services to adults with disabilities, mental illness and brain injuries in residential settings in the south east metro.

White Bear Yacht Club Laundry Attendant We are searching for an attentive laundry attendant to support the functions of our establishment. The laundry attendant's responsibilities include cleaning, pressing, and folding towels, linens and other textile articles. Flexible schedule, $14-$16 an hour, 30-40 hours a week summer, 15-20 hours a week winter. Contact Jeff at 651-429-4567 or jlee@wbyc.com.

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NEED FULL-TIME WAREHOUSE HELP. 1 for each shift 8:00a.m.-4:30p.m. & 10:30 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Receive, Stock, Pick-orders, Ship

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FT CUSTODIAN The City of Shoreview is now hiring a FT Custodian. Third shift: 9:30 pm-6 am. Starting wage: $21.01-$22.07/ hr to start, plus excellent beneﬁts/ pension. For more info and to apply online, go to shoreviewmn.gov/jobs. Deadline: Open until ﬁlled. First consideration given to applications received by June 27, 2021. EOE

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hugofeed@comcast.net

COMMUNITY CENTER SPECIALIST - BUILDING The City of Shoreview is looking for a dynamic, high-energy individual to work as a full-time Community Center Specialist- Building in our active facility. Starting wage: $19.84 - $20.85 per hour plus excellent beneﬁts. For more info and to apply online, go to shoreviewmn.gov/jobs Deadline: 1:00 pm, Monday, June 28, 2021 EOE

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:beadnbZci :beadnbZci :beadnbZci :beadnbZci :beadnbZci :beadnbZci :beadnbZci FULL-TIME INCOME TAX/ ACCOUNTANT For New Brighton tax & accounting firm Knowledge of Quickbooks & Ultra Tax Software preferred - contact Rich at

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KMS PUBLIC SCHOOLS has FT high school counselor position available August 2021. Current MN licensure required. Apply: www.kms. k12.mn.us; attach letter of interest, resume, transcripts, copy of license, three letters of recommendation.

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$15 per hour, paid immediately. Contact Judi at 651-440-9625, judi@mmraces.com

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PHONE: 651-407-1250 MEET YOUR SPECIALIST

AUTO SERVICE

KNUTSEN AUTO SERVICE

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PHONE: 651-407-1250 LANDSCAPING

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Lawn Services Starting at $30 Spring Clean Up Starting at $90 Neighborly Pricing Extraordinary Professional Service

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MOKIE’S

24 years in business

1ST TIME DISCOUNT

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t Interior DecorativF Painting t WallpaperinH (anE Removal)

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SERVICES:

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Kitchen / Bathroom Basement / Deck

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80%

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If you know of a trusted contractor to help out other great people, please send your recommendation to callaspecialist@presspubs. com or call 651-407-1250

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THE LOWDOWN

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Muskies still a rewarding catch for anglers BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Anglers in the northeast metro area have been stalking the mighty muskellunge for decades. The muskie following today is stronger than ever, but one word is on the lips of anglers and fishery managers alike: change. Ryan McMahon lives in Mahtomedi and has been fishing muskies for 25 years and has guided clients for the past 10. He knows the northeast metro lakes well and has had a front row seat to changing dynamics in Owasso, Forest, White Bear and Bald Eagle lakes. “They’ve all gone through so many changes,” he says, citing the introduction of Zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species. He added, “weed growth has changed tremendously.” In general, McMahon reports a “steady decline in the last couple years” in the overall quality of muskie fishing, which means fewer fish seen and fewer catches. In his estimation, “2012 was the last good year.” In late 2013, Lake Owasso experienced a fish kill, and he says he’s waiting until that lake is about a decade out before he goes back. East Metro Area Fisheries Supervisor T.J. DeBates generally cites all the same changes McMahon has observed. One complication in responding to those changes is a relatively recent statewide stocking guide, which dictates the stocking of fingerling-size muskies in many lakes, including Forest and Owasso. That is in contrast to White Bear and Bald Eagle, where DeBates is allowed to stock yearlings and adults — which fare better against competition and predation by other predator fish. However, the same plan that controls the stocking regimen also

TWINCITIESMUSKIE.COM | SUBMITTED

Muskie guide Ryan McMahon with a muskie caught on a northeast metro lake.

mandates getting a better handle on muskie demographics through a two-year lake sampling process. It promises to help managers finetune individual resources. “It’s a high priority in our area,” explains DeBates. “Our goal as biologists and managers is to collect the best data we can. In the next five to 10 years, we’ll have a real good picture (of each lake’s population).” Initial results are beginning to paint that picture through population estimates. Before COVID-19 interrupted survey efforts, East Metro Fisheries managed to survey Bald Eagle Lake and DeBates was “very impressed with the numbers and size of the fish.” But numbers don’t always translate into catches. McMahon notes recent difficulty finding and enticing the fish on Bald Eagle. He knows muskie

behavior changes often, and laughs it off: “it’s not my favorite lake right now.” He fishes it often, along with nearby White Bear, which he characterizes as deep and “crazy clear.” White Bear Lake has been known for its clear water, but Zebra mussels have augmented that clarity since they were introduced. DeBates notes that changing water clarity may cause behavioral changes in muskies. For one thing, as lake water becomes clearer, weeds tend to grow at depths previously unseen. Changes in weeds influence the location of bait fish and predators alike, and DeBates says that if anglers don’t adapt their approach, they may simply conclude there are fewer fish. He suggests the same may happen on Forest Lake, where Zebra mussels have also appeared.

“TIME WILL TELL.” McMahon fishes Forest Lake often, and recognizes it as having its own unique characteristics. “It’s really cool. It has a good topwater bite and a good shallow water bite.” Locally, he splits his time between Forest, Bald Eagle and White Bear lakes, sometimes hitting two in one day. He stresses the importance of keeping abreast of what the fish are doing at any one time: “You have to stay on your toes.” Another thing keeping the muskie crowd on its toes is the sheer popularity of the sport. Both McMahon and DeBates mention how muskie anglers have increased in number over the years. Lakes managed for muskies, however, number fewer than 100 statewide. As a result, relatively few adult fish encounter lures on a regular basis. These “educated” fish show signs of reluctance, which makes catching them more difficult over lifetimes that can last 20 years or more. All changes and complicating factors aside, McMahon continues to ply local muskie waters regularly. Despite increasing difficulties catching fish, he derives satisfaction from providing clients what he calls “a fun, exciting experience.” “I enjoy the cat-and-mouse game aspect of it. It’s always a rewarding and interesting process.” When asked if muskies are truly “the fish of 10,000 casts,” he says, “No. I’m not sure where that idea comes from. Especially nowadays, with the technology we have and what we know about the fish, they should not be. There are no guarantees, but you should be able to have a good shot at catching one in less than 10,000 casts.”

WHERE BUSINESS AND SUCCESS MEET

Results. Relationships. Resources.

SUBMITTED

Nonprofits receive donations from Forest Lake Masons Two local community nonprofit organizations — the Firefly Sisterhood and the Forest Lake Clay Target Team accepted donations from the Forest Lake Masons on June 3. The Firefly Sisterhood supports women with one-to-one connections between women experiencing breast cancer and inspirational survivors. The Forest Lake Clay Target Team is one of the largest youth participation teams in the area. Earlier this year both groups participated in Forest Lake Mason’s Event and Fundraisers. The Masons provided matching funds to each organization for their efforts. Pictured left to right are: Michael Perreault, Amy Gallagher, Cooper Auge, Heather Kaup, Mark Bump, Dave Madison and Dave O’Neill. THE

THE

L Lowdown owd

Three member benefits offered by the FLA Chamber of Commerce that contribute to local business RECOVERY.

January 2020 Vol. 08 No. 01

readthelowdown.com

| $1

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Skijoring ﬁghts the winter blues | 16

Being a member of the Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce for over 30 years is a wonderful experience and great opportunity to build relationships with other business professionals. Anyone not taking advantage RI D FKDPEHU PHPEHUVKLS LV GH¿QLWHO\ PLVVLQJ D FKDQFH WR UHDOO\ OHW WKH community know who you are and what you do. I have made great connections and even better, many great friends. Remember, I believe a person or business can only be as successful as their network. Thank you to Nan and everyone on the chamber board for making it all possible.

David E. Purdy, Wealth Management Midwest WINGS

& SPAR PARR ROWS OWS’’ STRA THING GS S NGE LOVE LIVES |

LOOK BACK AT 2019 | 14-15

Your guide to the Arts & Outdoors Scene in Washington County

HOTTER, WETTER:

MINNESOTA’S CHANGING CLIMATE

Save the Date 2020

35 Annual Wedding Expo th

AM - 2 PM JANUARY 12, 2020 • 11 Best Western Plus

12 1

POP-U P PANTRY

Your gui

| 10

White Bear Lake White Bear Country Inn |

ABOUT: deOUT to AND the Art | 8-9 s AREA & Ou tdoors Sce

WINTER EVENTS AROUND THE

ne in

Where Quality Comes First • Immediate Collision Repair • Free Computerized Estimate on damage repair •Loaner Cars available by Appt

• Rental Cars available • Free Pick Up and Delivery Shuttle within 15 miles.

24408 Greenway Ave • Forest Lake MN 651-464-6477 • www.billsautobodymn.com

Sat: 8am-Noon M-F: 7am-5:30 pm

651-464-3200 ForestLakeChamber.org

706672

YEAR IN REVIEW:

654509

Your best source for community information

22 THE LOWDOWN

JULY 2021 www.presspubs.com

Annual Forest Lake

VFW V VF FW Post P os Po st t 4210 42110 0

2021 Forest Lake Parade Route

WISHING YOU A SAFE & HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! 2016

706604

s t L ak e A Non r re Fo

556 SW 12th St. Forest Lake

merce om t f C ea r y

651-464-6827

Chamber ea roﬁt of the o p

705672

Wishing you a safe & happy 4th of July!

Happy 4th of July! Jesse Johnson 3 ,AKE 3TREET s

704291

651-464-3550 www.cityofforestlake.com

706680

Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July!

JULY 2021

THE LOWDOWN

www.presspubs.com

4th of July Celebration! Forest Lake American Legion ‘Back for fun in ‘21!’

4th of July Celebration Schedule: ÁRÈ«³( çً ‫ו‬ٜ‫ي׏‬

Olson’s Sewer Service, Inc. Olson’s Excavating Service

Carnival (Wristbands available all day) | 5 PM - 10 PM Bingo | 6 PM - 10 PM LIve band: 2 Shots Down | 6 - 10 PM

651-464-2082 www.olsonsinthepink.com

705986

Keep Your Sewer In The Pink!

³ ÁÈ«( çً ‫ו‬ٜ‫يב‬

Happy 4th of July

705702

651-464-4540 • 21438 Forest Lake Blvd N., Forest Lake, MN

Po s t 2 2 5 10am - NOON 2-6pm

Happy 4th of July!

THOMCO

Try our appetizer specials

Banquet Hall Rentals up to 350

C A R P E T Inc

Quality Service & Installation Since 1974

FLOORING & BLINDS Forest Lake (next to Pizza Hut)

651-464-2405

705519

www.thomcocarpet.com

706607

355 W. Broadway Forest Lake, MN. 55025 651-464-2600 Fax: 651-464-4538

706024

THE

Lowdown

‘HAPPIEST HOURS IN TOWN’

24 THE LOWDOWN

JULY 2021 www.presspubs.com

Congratulations

PENELOPE CORBETT I will attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities to study music and speechlanguage-hearing sciences.

ALLISON BLATTER University of Miami, marine biology major.

ELEANOR GRACE I will be attending DePaul University and majoring in jazz studies.

NICOLE HALEY I will attend the University of St. Thomas for a major in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in spanish.

EVE MARIE HINNENKAMP Attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

SOPHIA STEBLAY I am attending the University of Minnesota Twin Cities to major in mechanical and biomedical engineering.

KATHLEEN POTHEN I will be attending the University of Minnesota.

PATRICK J. WALSH I will be attending the University of Wisconsin Madison to study physics.

ANALEE WEAVER I plan to run D1 Cross Country and track for BYU, Brigham Young University in the fall. I plan to major in Nutrition Science or Marketing.

HEATHER WIEHE I am attending the University of Minnesota School of Nursing.

Congratulations

MCKENNA ANDREWS Attending Grand Canyon University and will be majoring in Biology and Minoring in Spanish

PAIGE BAKKESTUEN I will be attending the University of WisconsinMadison in the fall as an undecided major.

GRACE LAND I am attending Bethel University where I will major in Biology with a concentration in Pre-Med on music performance and academic scholarships.

SAMUEL LARSON I will be attending Texas Christian University and studying Economics through the John V. Roach Honors College.

KENNEDY MAYER I will be attending the University of Minnesota Duluth to study biology.

to the 2021 Graduating Class of Stillwater Area High School and the Top Academic Achievers!

GRACE KNOWLAN I will be attending St. Olaf College in Northﬁeld, Minnesota.

WREN KONICKSON Northern Michigan University.

ELIZABETH LANDHERR I will be attending St. Olaf College and majoring in biology with a concentration in biomolecular science.

ABIGAIL KYLLO

SANDRA LIU University of Minnesota–Twin Cities.

to the 2021 Graduating Class of Forest Lake Area High School and the Top Academic Achievers!

OLIVIA OLSON I’ll be attending the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities and double majoring in History and English.

NATALIE RUNQUIST I’ll be taking a gap year and then continuing my education in engineering the year after.

VINCENT TARLIZZO I will be attending the University of WisconsinMadison in the fall and majoring in biology on the pre-med track.

SEBASTIAN STUDIER I will attend the University of Minnesota to study either Journalism or Education.

KENNEDY TRANSMISSION BRAKE & AUTO SERVICE

Experience The Kennedy Difference

CONGRATULATIONS

Class of 2021

Well Done Class of 2021

Congratulations to All of the Class of 2021!

WAY TO GO GRADUATES OF 2021

1079 W Broadway Ave, Forest Lake, MN (651) 466-2111• kennedytransmission.com

705981

Congratulations 2021 Graduates!

705638

705987

651-464-4540 • 21438 Forest Lake Blvd N., Forest Lake, MN

THOMCO C A R P E T Inc

Quality Service & Installation Since 1974

651-464-2405

706026

www.olsonsinthepink.com

705984

651.464.2082

568 S Lake Street • 651-464-7227

705982

Jesse Johnson