New shelter offers lifeline for exploited youth
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Starting this month, Corrie’s House will open its doors to up to six youth, ages 12-17, who are at risk of or have experienced sexual exploitation. Corrie’s House is the first Department of Human Services (DHS) licensed shelter and group residential program in the Twin Cities, and likely the only one in the state to offer crisis and long-term care for both genders.
Efforts to establish Corrie's House began in 2017.
“We have been working for almost eight years to get to this point. It's very complex to open a home, especially for minors. There are hundreds of pages of policies and procedures that have to be submitted and approved by the DHS, and for good reason,” explained Executive Director Renée Boehme.
For the past several years, the Corrie’s House staff conducted countless hours of research not only to understand the issue of sex trafficking but to also look at what services exist around the state and what gaps they could help fill.
“What we learned was there’s very little that existed compared to the need. The need is so high for youth who are in this situation,” Boehme explained. “They have complex trauma from it. It really requires specialized care to understand how to meet them where they are and help them back on the road to recovery emotionally, mentally, as well as to address the barriers that they may have been facing that make it really hard to exit.”
According to the Minnesota Attorney
SEE CORRIE’S HOUSE, PAGE 7
Sounds
the season: Volunteers kick off Salvation Army Kettle Campaign
BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR
The sound of a ringing bell and the sight of a red kettle are familiar signs that the holiday season has arrived. Each year, Salvation Army volunteers take to street corners and storefronts to collect donations that support local families in need.
“This is something we tend to do every November and December. It’s a great way for us to be out in the community, to be visible. The red kettle is super iconic, because it’s been around for so long,” said Sophie Crowell, divisional volunteer relations director (Northern Division) for the Salvation Army. She noted
that the red kettle is unique to North America, although the Salvation Army is worldwide.
The campaign started in San Francisco in 1891 when Salvation Army Captain Joseph McFee collected coins in a soup kettle to fund a Christmas dinner for the area’s poor. This year, the Red Kettle Campaign will last through Christmas Day. There are 260 locations across the north metro that are participating in this year’s campaign.
Funds raised during the campaign stay in the local community. Crowell said donations from the campaign goes “under the umbrella of food, SEE RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN, PAGE 12
CONTRIBUTED
Charles Jensen (left) and Tom O’Brien, of Shoreview, ring at various locations during the Red Kettle Campaign.
CONTRIBUTED
Pictured are Corrie’s House Program Director Jodi Bond (left) and Executive Director Renée Boehme.
SANTA CRUISE ROUTE MAP 2025
= Route start & order (Follow along on stories for updates throughout the route)
= End of route MON, DEC 8 6 - 8 PM
Santa Cruise
Santa Claus is coming to town! Santa will be riding around Shoreview on one of the Lake Johanna Fire Trucks. The Santa Cruise will follow this dedicated route map.
Donations
Santa and his helpers will be collecting food shelf items for the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf and toys for Toys for Tots. Toys for Tots accepts only new, unwrapped toys. For more information on donating, go to shoreviewmn.gov. 1
WHAT’S HAPPENING
ONGOING EVENTS
DROP IN MAH JONGG
When: 1 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Bring your tiles and your friends for drop-in play. All levels welcome. No registration required.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov or 651-4904700
500 CARD CLUB
When: Noon, Mondays
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Cards and conversation. No partner required.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov or 651-4904700
CURRENT EVENTS
SANTA CRUISE
When: 6-8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8
Where: Various neighborhoods in Shoreview
Details: Catch Santa riding through Shoreview on a Lake Johanna Fire Department truck as his helpers collects donations for the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf and Toys for Tots.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov
FESTIVAL OF TREES OPEN HOUSE
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 & 13
Where: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake
Details: See more than 30 trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. Photos with Santa, cookies, cocoa and holiday activities. Festival of Trees is also open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, Nov. 20-Dec. 20. Contact: whitebearhistory.org
AARP SMART DRIVER
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Taught by AARP trained instructors. A refresher course for those 55+ about safe driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. Register one week before class through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation website.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov or 651-4904700
WHITE BEAR LAKE WINTER MARKET
When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13
Where: White Bear Lake Area High School Student Union (west entrance), 5040 Bald Eagle Ave.
Details: Indoor farmers market with local vendors and makers. Food trucks on site until 2 p.m.
Contact: forksinthedirt.com
Indoor Market
When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 13
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Features items from local food and artisan vendors. Contact: shoreviewmn.gov
SANTA’S WORKSHOP
When: 9-10 a.m. or 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Spread a morning at Santa’s workshop with breakfast, crafts and a visit with Santa. Register through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation website.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov
SECRET HOLIDAY SHOPPING SPREE
When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Dec. 13
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Find the perfect gift for friends and family at the community center with the help of a personal shopper. Contact: shoreviewmn.gov
THE ENJOYABLE EVENING SERIES: CHRISTMAS CONCERT
When: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15
Where: Galilee Lutheran Church of Roseville, 145 McCarrons Boulevard North Details: The Roseville Community Band will put on a Christmas concert as part of The Enjoyable Evening Series. Refreshments following the concert. Contact: www.galileelutheranelca.com
HOLIDAY TEA
When: 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: An afternoon of socializing over an assortment of tea and desserts with a performance by the North Suburban Chorus. Register by Friday, Dec. 12 through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation catalog at tinyurl.com/8vzkshwy.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov
BSincere expressions
efore “A Charlie Brown Christmas” first premiered on network television, the executives all thought it was going to be a one and done flop and quickly disappear into history. With its combination of simple animation, the use of real children for the voices, no laugh track, contemporary jazz music and — probably most risky of all at the time — the inclusion of spoken verses from the bible, it wasn’t like any other holiday special that had ever been broadcast. If it hadn’t been put together on such a tight deadline and already locked into a place on the schedule, it probably would never have aired. Some of the producers and animators involved in the project were nervous, but Charles Schulz held firm to his vision and convictions. Contrary to the fears of the executives, the show was an immediate hit and was viewed by 45% of the television audience that night. The award winning holiday special had an impressive continuous run for more than 50 years on the CBS and then ABC broadcast television networks before the streaming rights were purchased by Apple TV+ in 2020.
Because Charlie Brown and his friends were such a memorable part of my childhood and in particular the holidays, I’m always pleased when younger people express an affinity for the characters and that their appeal appears to transcend generations. I’ve heard that Snoopy is currently having a moment with members of Gen Z. Other aspects of the Christmas special endure as well, including the soundtrack provided by the legendary Vince Guaraldi Trio. During the recent Gazebo Lighting Ceremony in Downtown White Bear Lake, a DJ got crowd members of all ages dancing by including the iconic “Linus and Lucy” song, which was the defining theme of the special, and over the years has also become a popular song on Christmas music playlists. I also witnessed some unique dance moves spontaneously erupt when a skilled pianist caught the attention of a group of high school students with his rendition of the classic tune at a White Bear Center for the Arts exhibit opening.
For old times sake, I watched the Christmas special on one of its last network television broadcasts. At first I thought that maybe time had caught up with the production, but by the time it reached its conclusion, the sincerity and heart of the message had once again hit the emotional mark. However, an aspect of the show that I found somewhat jarring was how extremely mean the kids are to Charlie Brown. An early documentary about Charles Schulz offered some insight, sharing that he showed an advanced aptitude for drawing in Kindergarten and first grade and also far exceeded his classmates in other subjects. As a result, he was moved ahead two grades and became the smallest student in his classes, where he was rebuffed, bullied and ignored, helping to explain the origins of some of Charlie Brown’s angst.
It’s mysterious why some Christmas specials and holiday movies endure while others fade away. Many of the same concerns about how consumerism and marketing were threatening to overshadow the true meaning of Christmas were present 60 years ago. I think many of us still remember “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” because of its sincere message emphasizing the religious and spiritual aspects of the holiday and also that Charles Schulz refused to compromise the unique vision he and his talented team of collaborators had created for his characters.
I sincerely wish everyone who reads this column the best of luck this coming month navigating through the tricky mix of emotions, expectations and other potential pressure points while managing to find some peace and comfort observing and enjoying the holiday season in your own unique way.
Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications.
When people come together, no one goes hungry
The holidays are often described as a season of warmth, generosity and togetherness. But for far too many families in our community, this December brings more worry than joy. As the most expensive month of the year for working households, the holidays can already stretch budgets thin— but this year, families are facing pressures unlike anything we’ve seen in recent memory.
Movers & Shakers
Shane Johnson
With the recent government shutdown, many families experienced delays in SNAP benefit disbursements, and the resulting backlog is still slowing down the processing of new applications. In addition, cuts made earlier this year—along with new administrative requirements— have made SNAP support harder to access and less able to meet existing need. Families are also confronting steep increases in the cost of health insurance, utilities and other necessities— expenses that quickly add up and make it difficult to keep food on
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the table.
Food shelves like ours are feeling the strain as well. We are serving more people than ever before, including many who are seeking help for the very first time. Meanwhile, significant cuts to hunger relief programs have made it harder for food shelves across Minnesota to meet the rising demand. This year brought major reductions to TEFAP funding and the end of the Farm to Food Shelf program—two supports that previously allowed food shelves to supplement their inventory with nutritious, affordable foods. Combined with the continued rise in food costs, these changes make it challenging to keep our shelves fully stocked for the families who depend on us.
Despite these obstacles, our mission has not changed: to ensure that every neighbor who walks through our doors has access to healthy, reliable food and essential support. And as always, community generosity is what makes that possible.
If you are able, we invite you to support the food shelf during this critical time. Monetary donations are especially helpful, as they allow us to purchase the specific items most needed by
families while stretching every dollar as far as possible. To learn more or to contribute, visit ralphreederfoodshelf.org.
This year, your gift can go even further. Thanks to the exceptional generosity of our partners at Bell Lumber and Pole, all new donations and any increase over last year’s giving made by Wednesday, Dec. 31, will be matched up to an unprecedented $150,000. This match will help us meet the growing need and ensure that families across our community experience the holiday season with dignity, hope, and nourishment.
We can help our neighbors through one of the most challenging years in recent memory, keeping the season’s true spirit—compassion, connection and hope—alive and bright. This community has been tested before, and each test has revealed an incredible capacity to care for one another.
And as we face this moment of need, I have faith that our community will carry us through again.
Shane Johnson is the basic needs program manager for the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf.
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Angle of View
Paul Dols
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
This is a turning point
Minnesota taxpayers are one of the largest funders of the Somali terrorist organization AlShabab.
Billions meant for disabled, seniors and the most vulnerable were stolen through massive fraud — and a portion of the money was funneled overseas to a terrorist group that wants to kill Americans and us, Minnesotans. This isn’t sloppy bookkeeping. This is nothing short of a catastrophic failure and possible collusion of the DFL leadership here in Minnesota.
And where was Tim Walz? Gallivanting around Europe.
Back home long enough to host a fundraiser.
Refusing to hold a single person in his administration accountable.
This state has never had a more buffoonish governor!
After incompetent Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison chose to look the other way, federal prosecutors were forced to act.
President Trump took action due to Minnesota’s Buffoonery.
Trump ended the temporary protected status (TPS program) for Somalis in Minnesota effective immediately — calling out OUR STATE as a HUB of international fraud and money-laundering.
When Walz refused to defend us, President Trump was forced to step in to guard us, Minnesota taxpayers, and national security.
Minnesotans deserve a new governor who will protect our families, our state and our country. This is a turning point.
People are waking up.
They are angry.
And they’re ready for change.
Chris Wolff, Shoreview
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2025 end of year: City budget and completion of the Seven Lakes project
TMovers and Shakers
he holiday season is upon us, and with it comes one of the most important responsibilities for any city: finalizing the annual budget. Shoreview uses a two-year budgeting cycle, revising the second year to reflect actual costs and changing needs. Residents should have received Ramsey County’s projected 2026 property tax statements that included the preliminary levy we approved in September. Now, we are working on completing our 2026 - 2027 budget.
Sue Denkinger
At our December 1 city council meeting, we held the annual Truth in Taxation presentation. This provided an opportunity for residents to learn more about how the city budget is developed, what our major cost drivers are and how the 2026 levy supports city services. The average homeowner in Shoreview will see a $132 increase on their city taxes in 2026. With this increase, they’ll be paying about $122 per month for city services. We strongly believe this is a good value to our residents for everything it includes such as public safety, street and utility maintenance, parks and highly qualified staff. A significant
portion of this year’s levy increase is driven by public safety needs. The most visible example is the construction of the new Lake Johanna Fire Station. Thanks to more than $6 million in state support, we were able to begin construction this year—a requirement of the state funding. Arden Hills, North Oaks and Shoreview will share the remaining costs, and these appear in each city’s budget for 2026.
This new station is a critical investment. It will allow the Lake Johanna Fire Department to improve response times, conduct on-site training, house all necessary equipment, and operate more efficiently for decades to come. In addition, the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office has increased salaries to remain competitive with other metro departments, helping ensure we continue to attract and retain qualified officers.
While property taxes fund most city operations, Shoreview works hard to reduce costs through grants and partnerships. Recent examples include a grant that helped fund solar panels at the water treatment plant—lowering long-term energy expenses—and another grant that contributed to the removal of diseased ash trees on city property.
This year, Shoreview will partner with the Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District to maintain several stormwater ponds in the city. Because pond clean-outs can be costly—especially when
SHOREVIEW CITY COUNCIL SNIPPETS
• Veit and Company Inc. will be responsible for the 2025 Sewer Rehabilitation Project after the council accepted its bid of $898,757. The project includes lining approximately 2 miles of pipe in multiple neighborhoods, which were identified by maintenance staff as needing repair or as sources of infiltration leaking. The total estimated cost for construction of the project is $988,632.70, which includes in-house construction, engineering and administration cost. The current capital improvement plan includes a budget of $961,000, funded by $760,000 from the sanitary sewer fund and $201,000 from the surface water fund.
• The city will enter into an ICWC contract with the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) for the provision of a full-time offender work crew for 2026 and 2027 follow-
ing council approval. According to the staff report, the city has utilized a full-time work crew provided by the DOC since 2011. The crew performs routine labor functions that support both public works and park maintenance activities throughout the year. The total negotiated value of the new contract is $214,000 for the two years, which reflects an 2% increase from the previous twoyear contract. Signing a two-year agreement ensures the city cost remains at $107,000 for two consecutive years without any additional contract increases.
• Multiple vendors’ requests for tobacco licenses in 2026 were approved by the city council. Renewal applications and fees have been submitted by all vendors. Background checks are also completed or in progress.
• The city will apply for a Local
contaminants are present—Shoreview cleans out several of its over 100 ponds per year. This year, the watershed district is taking the lead in obtaining bids and managing the work, reducing the amount of staff time and city resources required. We will continue to pursue grants and collaborative opportunities like these whenever possible.
On a separate and very exciting note, PAR Systems recently held a ribbon-cutting event celebrating its new and expanded Shoreview campus in Seven Lakes, the former Deluxe Corporation site. PAR joins Binks and M Health Fairview on the fully occupied campus and brings even more high-quality jobs to our community. A Shoreview business since 1961, PAR Systems is owned by the Pohlad family and specializes in engineering solutions for aerospace, military, and other advanced industries. During a tour, I had the opportunity to see their robotics lab and a demonstration of friction-stir welding—a process that fuses materials at the molecular level. It’s remarkable work happening right here in our city.
As we close out the year, I’m thankful for the engagement, support, and thoughtful questions from our residents. Together, we continue to build a strong, efficient and forward-thinking Shoreview.
Sue Denkinger is the mayor of Shoreview.
Road Improvement Program grant for the reconstruction of Hamline Avenue following council approval. The road is currently scheduled for reconstruction in 2028 per the city’s capital improvement plan. The project will include reconstruction of Hamline Avenue from Lexington Avenue to County Road I, realigning the intersection with County Road I, replacing and adding additional street lights and installing trail connections in the area. If selected, the city could receive up to $1.5 million in funding.
The next Shoreview City Council meeting will take place at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, in council chambers.
Madeline Dolby
COPS&COURTS
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Shoreview:
• Deputies arrested a 48-year-old man Oct. 26 in the 5400 block of Carlson Road for domestic assault, assault and disorderly conduct after he physically assaulted a 52-year-old man from Las Vegas and left him with injuries to his mouth and nose.
• Deputies responded Oct. 28 to a gun-pointing incident in the 4100 block of Lexington Avenue North in which a 41-year-old woman said she confronted two males attempting to steal a catalytic converter and one of them pointed a handgun at her. Deputies located the suspect vehicle and, after a brief pursuit, arrested a 31-year-old man from Inver Grover Heights.
• Deputies arrested a 33-year-old man from Blaine Oct. 28 for theft, fleeing a police officer, giving peace officers a false name and possession of burglary tools after responding to a report of a man using a box cutter to cut tags off expensive electronic items at a business in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue North. The suspect ran away from deputies when they approached him. They caught up with him, found bags carrying more than $500 of unpaid merchandise and placed him under arrest.
• Deputies cited a 45-year-old man from Chisago Oct. 28 near the
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Demonstrate fire safety this holiday season
intersection of Hodgson Road and Highway 96 West for failure to stop at a traffic control signal.
• Deputies cited a 47-year-old woman Oct. 29 in the 5500 block of Hodgson Road for not carrying proof of automobile insurance while operating a motor vehicle.
• An 81-year-old woman in the 5500 block of Donegal Drive reported Oct. 29 that someone forged two checks on her account totaling more than $2,000. The incident is under investigation.
• An animal control officer responded Oct. 30 to a report of a nuisance cat in the 500 block of Cardigan Road and contacted the cat’s owner, who retrieved it.
• Deputies responded Oct. 31 to a minor property damage crash near the intersection of Lexington Avenue North and County Road F West involving a Jeep Grand Cherokee and BMX X1. No injuries were recorded, and the drivers exchanged insurance information.
• Deputies responded Nov. 1 to a three-vehicle crash near the intersection of Highway 96 and Hodgson Road involving a 61-yearold woman from North Oaks, a 60-year-old woman from Shoreview and a 63-year-old woman from New Brighton. All occupants of their vehicles were evaluated by medics for their injuries and the vehicles were towed.
• A deputy working DWI enforcement Nov. 1 stopped a 37-year-old man from St. Paul near the inter -
The National Fire Sprinkler Association is looking to raise awareness on fire safety and fire sprinklers this holiday season.
“More home fires occur between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day than during any other week of the year. Fire sprinklers give people the precious time they need to escape and firefighters the chance to do their jobs safely. Seeing the difference side-by-side makes it clear why they’re such a valuable part of home safety,” said Sean Flaherty, chair of the National Fire Sprinkler Association Minnesota Chapter.
The association provided these fire safety tips for the upcoming season:
• Water live Christmas trees daily and dispose of them soon after the holidays.
section of Interstate 694 and Rice Street for speeding and later determined that the man was under the influence. After performing poorly on field sobriety tests, the driver was placed under arrest.
• Deputies responded Nov. 1 to a report of a missing teen in the 4300 block of Hodgson Road and entered a 17-year-old female from St. Paul into a database for missing and runaway children. The incident is under investigation.
• D eputies issued a citation Nov. 2 for disorderly conduct to a 27-yearold woman from Fridley after she knocked on the door of a friend who lived in the 400 block of Harriet Avenue, punched her in the head and kicked her before leaving. Medics evaluated the victim for concussion-like symptoms.
• Deputies responded Nov. 4 to a report of a 15-year-old female from Coon Rapids who was receiving medical care in the 3400 block of Rice Street but has not been in contact with her families. The incident is under investigation.
• Deputies issued a distracted driving citation Nov. 5 to a 21-year-old woman from New Brighton near the intersection of Target Service Road and Lexington Avenue North.
• The family of an 85-year-old man reported Nov. 5 that he’d been scammed online by people who coerced him to send $1,500 to have an alarm on his computer turned off. Family intervened when the same
BOARD SNIPPETS
• The National Merit Semifinalists and Scholars from Mounds View High School and Irondale High School were recognized by the board. This year, 15 students were named semifinalists or scholars. The National Merit Scholarship Program is a nationwide academic competition that recognizes students who score in the top highest percentage on the PSAT in the state and nation.
• Seventeen gifts have been donated to the schools and programs this receiving period for a total of approximately $30,400. Sixteen were donated to the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf for a total of roughly $21,392.
TIME, the week beginning 11/30/2025
• Keep candles and space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.
• Turn off holiday lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working properly.
• Never leave cooking unattended. Most holiday fires start in the kitchen.
For more information about fire sprinklers, how they work and access to additional resources and information, visitwww.nfsa.org.
beginning 11/30/2025 Metro
• Julie Coffey, executive director of human resources, presented the board with employee contracts for teachers and principals and a nutrition services labor agreement. Coffey first presented the board with a teacher waiver agreement. The agreement includes a 2% increase to the salary schedule in year one and a 3% increase to the salary schedule in year two of the contract. In the second year of the contract, the district contribution toward the 403b was increased by $300 and the off-schedule payment for teachers will increase by $500. In the principal labor agreement, it shows a 2.5% increase to the salary schedule in year one and a 2.75% increase to the salary schedule in year two of the contract. In the second year of the contract, Coffey said the district contribution toward the 403b was increased by $1,000. The nutrition services labor agreement shows a 2% increase in year one and a 3% increase in year two of the contract. All contracts are for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 school year. The board ultimately approved the contracts and the labor agreement.
man convinced the victim to withdraw $20,000 from his checking account. Family members stopped the 85-year-old from making the transaction and reported a crime.
• Deputies responded Nov. 6 to a vehicle crash in the 1100 block of West Royal Oaks Drive that involved a Buick Enclave and a Kia Optima. The crash results in minor damage to both vehicles.
• Deputies issued a parking citation Nov. 6 to the owners of nine vehicles found parking in a no-parking zone in the 1000 block of Gramsie Road.
• A deputy on routine patrol Nov. 6 came upon an unoccupied BMW sedan in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue with license plates registered to another owner. The plates were impounded and a card with the deputy’s contact information was left under the windshield wiper.
• A 36-year-old man in the 3500 block of Owasso Street reported Nov. 8 that someone stole the catalytic converter from his Toyota Rav4. The incident is under investigation.
• A caller reported Nov. 8 that a neighbor’s dog had been barking for 30 minutes in the 5800 block of Saint Albans Street North. An animal control officer responded, spoke to both parties, determined it was an ongoing issue and gave a noise violation warning to the dog’s owner.
• Executive Director of School Management Darin Johnson provided the board with options for nonresident enrollment for the 2026-27 school year. According to Johnson, some schools and grade levels will have the capacity to enroll nonresident students for the next school year. Johnson added that detailed information about the specific grade levels, schools and programs where nonresident student enrollment will be available and the process for selection will be on the district website. Ultimately, the board decided to allow open enrollment for nonresidents.
• Superintendent Chris Lennox provided an update on the district operational plan (DOP) goal regarding the capital projects levy. Lennox announced that residents were asked to approve a $10 million capital projects levy for safety and security within Mounds View Public Schools on the most recent election on Nov. 4. He said residents approved the levy with a margin of 64% in favor. “This dedicated funding source will allow us to make our schools safer, improving cyber security to protect our students and staff data and to ensure our students and staff are supported in their learning with reliable classroom technology,” Lennox said. Funds will be available for the district to use in the 2026-27 school year.
The next Mounds View Public Schools School Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, at the District Center, 4570 Victoria St. N., Shoreview. Public comments to the board will be at 6:30 p.m. before the meeting.
Madeline Dolby
MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOOL
General’s Office, Minneapolis is one of the top locations in the U.S. for child sex trafficking. A six-month study by local prosecutors found more than 34,000 advertisements posted online for sex in the Twin Cities. But sex trafficking is not just a Twin Cities problem. Trafficking affects people from all parts of Minnesota.
“People think it is not happening here … They think it is a city problem,” Boehme said. “But with the internet now, and with phones, there are no boundaries.”
Approximately 10 years ago, Boehme says it happened to someone who lived on her street. A young girl was being trafficked while living at home, and her parents had no idea anything was going on until she attempted to take her own life.
“Luckily, she didn't succeed, and then the parents were able to get her help … It took a couple of years for her, but she had two loving parents with resources to help her. Today she has got her college degree, she's married and she's got a little baby and she's thriving,” she recalled. “I was able to see the trauma and the devastation to her family and to her, but I was also able to see the resilience and where her life is now, and how happy she is, and I thought every youth deserves that opportunity
BY THE NUMBERS
of people who care about them and can get them the help they need.”
That’s where Corrie’s House comes in. The home, nestled in a residential area of Oakdale, will offer a safe and stable place that is trauma-informed and victim-centered. The wrap-around services include case management, individual and group therapy, chemical dependency counseling, educational programming, physical health care needs, mental health support, life skills learning, job skills development and employment opportunities, as well as survivor services, family reunification counseling and support.
“We are trying to give them a voice for the first time in their lives,” Boehme said. “Our hope is that by the time they leave, they are empowered with the skills to continue forward.”
Program Director Jodi Bond added, “It is really about choice, choice, choice for them… giving back their autonomy and their choices since they have been so controlled,” she said.
Bond was hired in September. She was five months into retirement after working in Ramsey County Corrections for 35 years when she heard about the position.
“I just felt it was a calling. This has always been my heart work,” Bond said. “I feel like my entire career has led me to this point … There is such a demand
About 40% Over 50% 13 34,000+ of sex trafficking cases involve minors of exploited adults were first trafficked as children the average age of a child who is trafficked advertisements posted online for sex in the Twin Cities in six months
SOURCE: MINNESOTA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OFFICE
for places like Corrie’s House to open up to help these youth who have been so traumatized.”
The six-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot home is equipped with a “thrive” room where survivors can meet with social workers or decompress; a living room, kitchen, laundry room, “zen den” and therapeutic gardens.
Bond says she not only wanted to help transform the lives of youth but also wanted to be a part of mentoring staff who have a passion for what they do.
“It’s really, really hard, and it takes a special person, and so to be that manager that really promotes their self-care and work-life balance and understands secondary trauma and how to be able to take care of yourself so you can come your whole self to work each day.”
Come Dec. 1, there will likely be several applications on their desks. “We were told day one we would have 75 to 80 applications on day one,” Boehme explained. Her hope is that the community becomes more informed on the issue, understands that it is not just a
“city” issue and develops a compassion for the youth.
“I look at these youth as the most vulnerable and exploited population of our time. The only way we can help solve this is to get informed so that we can help prevent it and then understand the difficult circumstances these kids are under,” she said.
“No little girl or boy dreams at night that this is what they want to do. They don’t wake up in the morning and say, ‘Gosh, this is what I want to do for a living.’ They are forced into it. They are manipulated … So, if they don’t have somebody in their corner fighting for them, it’s almost impossible to get out of it.”
For more information about Corrie’s House, visit https://corrieshouse.org.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Corrie’s House recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony. The shelter opened its doors Dec. 1 to youth, ages 12-17, who are at risk or have experienced sexual exploitation.
SilverSneakers coverage at YMCA, Life Time ends
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Seniors who are a part of the SilverSneakers program and work out at a YMCA or Life Time may need to find another option — and quickly. Those with Medicare Advantage have until the Dec. 7 enrollment deadline to explore other options.
According to the YMCA of the North, the Y did not request or approve any changes and was informed about the change with “little notice.”
“We were informed by Tivity, the third-party aggregator for the SilverSneakers program, on Nov. 19 that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota would be changing its plan option to exclude YMCA of the North locations for 2026. Despite our efforts to try to reach a solution that would allow our members to remain included, we were not able to influence any change,” said Glen Gunderson, YMCA of the North president and CEO.
Approximately 7,800 members may be affected.
SilverSneakers is a free membership for adults 65 and older that includes access to roughly 14,000 recreation centers, churches, senior communities and other neighborhood locations. Members gain access to fitness equipment, social events, a variety of exercise classes, plus access to amenities like swimming pools, tennis courts and walking tracks.
“The Y remains deeply committed to serving seniors by supporting their physical health, reducing social isolation and offering a vital place to con-
Who qualifies for SilverSneakers
Eligibility depends on Medicare coverage. Most Medicare Advantage plans include SilverSneakers as a free benefit. Some Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies also provide access, although Original Medicare Parts A and B do not. Special Needs Plans (SNPs) may also offer SilverSneakers. To confirm your eligibility, check your plan documents or call your insurer.
nect,” Gunderson said. “We hear every day how important this is, including from members who rely on the Y for community during difficult times.”
Gunderson added that the YMCA of the North is working on a solution for members affected by the changes to their health plan that they expect to have available to share with those members in the days after Thanksgiving.
According to Life Time Public Relations Manager Dan DeBaun, Life Time was informed on Nov. 18 that Life Time will no longer be part of the SilverSneakers network beginning Jan. 1, 2026. “Life Time was not involved in this decision. Our immediate priority has been to communicate directly with those affected. Life Time has introduced new, affordable membership
Alternatives to SilverSneakers
Not every insurer participates in SilverSneakers. Other programs such as Renew Active, Silver&Fit, or Golden Sneakers may be offered by certain insurers as an alternative. These programs also provide access to fitness centers, classes, and online resources for older adults. If your plan doesn’t include any of these programs, check directly with local gyms and community centers — many offer senior discounts or special memberships.
options to maintain continuity for affected members and support the active, connected lifestyle this community values,” DeBaun said.” We hope to have the opportunity to continue serving these members and remain committed to delivering exceptional environments and programming for people of all ages.”
Press Publications reached out to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota but did not hear back prior to deadline. Seniors are encouraged to review their Medicare Advantage options before the Dec. 7 open enrollment deadline to see what gyms are included.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Bus driver saves 4-old-boy from Lake Owasso
Mebal Kaanti, a bus driver with Scmitty & Sons Bus Co., was finishing up her route when she saw a 4-year-old boy running towards Lake Owasso near the intersection of Chandler and Owasso Boulevard in Shoreview.
Kaanti got off the bus and ran into the water after the boy. According to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, the child was up to his neck in water when Kaanti reached him. She wrapped her arms around him, brought him back to shore and called 911.
Deputies and medics met them at the scene and transported him to a hospital, where his mother met him. The boy did not sustain any injuries, nor did Kaanti.
1. Shoreview residents can check out Press
Notice of Filing 2026 Senate District 47A & House District 64A Special Elections Ramsey County, Minnesota
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES •
RAMSEY COUNTY ELECTIONS NOTICE OF FILING
Notice is hereby given that a filing period will be given for candidates seeking election in the 2026 House District 47A and House District 64A Special Elections If necessary, an open Primary Election for one or both offices will be held on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 followed by the Special Election Date itself which will be held on Tuesday, January 27th 2026. The filing date for both of these offices will begin on Tuesday, November 18th at 8:00 a.m. and will conclude on Tuesday, November 25th at 5:00 p.m. Candidates may withdraw their names from the ballot up until Wednesday, November 26th at 5:00 p.m. After this deadline, candidates may not remove their names from the ballot. The filing fee associated with House District 47A and House District 64A are non-refundable, even if a candidate decides to withdraw.
2026 SENATE DISTRICT 47A & HOUSE DISTRICT 64A SPECIAL ELECTIONS RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Notice is hereby given that a filing period will be given for candidates seeking election in the 2026 House District 47A and House District 64A Special Elections. If necessary, an open Primary Election for one or both offices will be held on Tuesday, December 16th 2025 followed by the Special Election Date itself which will be held on Tuesday, January 27th 2026. The filing date for both of these offices will begin on Tuesday, November 18th at 8:00 a.m. and will conclude on Tuesday, November 25th at 5:00 p.m. Candidates may withdraw their names from the ballot up until Wednesday, November 26th at 5:00 p.m. After this deadline, candidates may not remove their names from the ballot. The filing fee associated with House District 47A and House District 64A are non-refundable, even if a candidate decides to withdraw.
Below is a list of filing locations and the filing fee for House District 47A and House District 64A:
Below is a list of filing locations and the filing fee for House District 47A and House District 64A:
Jurisdiction Filing Fee Filing Locations
Jurisdiction Filing Fee Filing Location
Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Veteran’s Service Building, Suite 210 20 W 12th St. Saint Paul, MN 55155
House District 47A $100
House District 64A $100
Petitions
Petitions
Washington County Elections 14949 62nd St. N Stillwater, MN 55082
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd. Saint Paul, MN 55107
Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Veteran’s Service Building, Suite 210 20 W 12th St. Saint Paul, MN 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd. Saint Paul, MN 55107
Candidates may opt to submit a Petition in Place of a Filing Fee in order to waive the $100 filing fee. Petitions in place of a filing fee may begin to receive signatures before the filing period and signees of the petition must be eligible to vote for the candidate named on the petition. A petition in place of a filing fee must be presented with the candidate’s Affidavit of Candidacy. Petitions to waive the fee for the Minnesota House of Representatives require 500 valid signatures. Independent or minor party candidates must file a Nominating Petition in order to be placed on the ballot. Signatures on a nominating petition may only be gathered during the filing period. A nominating petition for a Minnesota House of Representatives requires 500 valid signatures in order for the candidate to be placed on the ballot and presented at the time of filing with the candidate’s Affidavit of Candidacy. How to File
Candidates may opt to submit a Petition in Place of a Filing Fee in order to waive the $100 filing
Affidavits of Candidacy and Affidavits of Withdrawal must be filed in-person at a designated filing location or mailed in after being properly notarized. Please note that the Affidavit of Candidacy has been updated from previous years and now includes a residential address verification section which must be initialed by the filing officer or active notary in order for the Affidavit to be considered complete. Nominating petitions and petitions in place of filing fees must be submitted in-person at designated filing locations. If a candidate must be out of Minnesota during the filing period, they should contact the Minnesota Secretary of State to get information on how to file. Affidavits of Candidacy and Affidavits of Withdrawal are available in fillable copies on the Office of the Secretary of State’s website. For more information about the filing process, contact Ramsey County Elections at: elections@ramseycounty.us ; 651-266-2171
Published one time in the Shoreview Press on December 2, 2025.
NOTICE OF ELECTION
SPECIAL PRIMARY FOR HOUSE DISTRICTS 47A & 64A
DECEMBER 16TH, 2025
RAMSEY COUNTY ELECTIONS
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Notice is hereby given that Special Primary Elections for House District 47A and 64A will occur on December 16th, 2025. Visit mnvotes.org to view a full list of candidates and ballot content. The following offices will be on the ballot in their respective jurisdictions:
SPECIAL PRIMARY FOR HOUSE DISTRICTS 47A & 64A
DECEMBER 16TH, 2025
Notice is hereby given that Special Primary Elections for House District 47A and 64A will occur on December 16th, 2025. Visit mnvotes.org to view a full list of candidates and ballot content. The following offices will be on the ballot in their respective jurisdictions:
• Minnesota House of Representatives - District 47A (Primary)
• Minnesota House of Representatives -
• Minnesota House of Representatives - District 47A (Primary)
• Minnesota House of Representatives - District 64A (Primary)
The following polling places will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on December 16th, 2025:
MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MOUNDS VIEW SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY, OCTOBER 7, 2025
Meetings take place at the District Center in Shoreview (4570 Victoria Street N). Complete minutes available upon request at the District Center.
DOP Goal Update: Enrollment and Facilities Study
Executive Director of School Management Darin Johnson gave an update regarding the District Operational Plan (DOP) Goal of completing an enrollment and facilities study. Johnson reported on district enrollment trends, noting that the District has had open enrollment on a limited basis the past few years. Johnson reported that site visits are being completed, facility maps are being updated and enrollment projections are being updated regularly. Johnson noted it will be important to have clear enrollment projections aligned to the capacity of facilities that can be used for future decision-making regarding the Districts’ overall enrollment and facility needs. The complete DOP can be viewed on the website
DOP Goal Update: Energy Audit
Executive Director of School Management Darin Johnson gave an update regarding the DOP Goal of completing a comprehensive energy audit across district buildings and facilities. Johnson noted that the District is moving toward a goal of using 100% clean energy, and reported that the geothermal well projects at Irondale High School and Highview Middle School are evidence of that commitment. Johnson reported that the company SiteLogiq has been performing a review of each facility to determine energy usage and identifying strategies to save energy. Johnson also noted the Minnesota Legislature recently passed a bill prohibiting the sale and use of fluorescent lighting, so schools will be switching to LED lighting.
Updates
The Board discussed issues and updates related to AMSD/legislative, NE Metro 916 and shared updates on their activities and participation in events and committees around the District.
Thank you
The Board accepted with appreciation gifts from Becky Hepola - Benevity Travelers Company Match, CAF America - William Delfs, Marie Barnum - Benevity Ryan Companies Match, US Charitable Gift Trust - Sean Palacio, Joan & Ken Zwach, Carley Foundry – Jordan Carley, Mariah, Multi-Tech Systems – Terry Boe, New Brighton Lions Club, Brian Panter, Presbyterian Church of the Way – Pastor David Parker and members, Salem Covenant Church – Shelli Streeper, Alicia and David Smith, Claudia Wiebold and Cynthia and Rick Wriskey.
A look ahead
November 6, 5 p.m., work session
November 13, 7 p.m., regular meeting
Published one time in the Shoreview Press on December 2, 2025.
RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN:
shelter and care.”
“Whatever someone’s needs are, if they need to visit the food shelf, we’re able to purchase food at an affordable break from our partners so that we can provide as much food to as many households as we can. If somebody is needing help paying utility or paying rent, we would have some funding to be able to support those types of programs,” she explained.
The Northern Division of the Salvation Army includes Minnesota and North Dakota. In total, there are about 15,500 bell ringing volunteers across the division. In the Twin Cities, there are approximately 12,400 volunteers during the campaign.
“We are so blessed that we have a lot of volunteers that come back year after year. So many volunteers make it their Christmas tradition,” Crowell said.
Stories from the kettle
Arden Hills/Shoreview Rotarian Mark Stange has been coordinating the Rotary’s involvement in the campaign for over two decades. He said a group of Rotarians have been bell ringing since the early 2000s. On Wednesday, Dec. 3, and Thursday, Dec. 4, a group of about 18 Rotarians will be bell ringing outside the Cub located in Arden Hills.
Stange said one memory continues to stick out over the 23 years he has been bell ringing.
“There was a woman walking out with her grocery cart, following this 5-year-old boy. He goes ‘Mom, wait!’ and he digs in his (blue) jeans pocket and pulls out a coin and puts it in the kettle,” he said. “It blew me away.” He added that it is cool to see who donates to the campaign, and it’s heartening to see. Stange said the Rotary coordinates with a volunteer group from Mounds View
tradition as much as it is a fundraiser.”
North Oaks resident Jim Bowyer has been participating in the Red Kettle campaign for nine years with the Kiwanis Northeast Metro Golden K Club. This year, 18 Kiwanis club members will ring bells outside the Cub in Arden Hills.
One moment that sticks out to Bowyer is when he was bell ringing in Roseville. He said a car was driving by and the driver put on his brakes and flashers, got out of the car and put a donation in the kettle.
Bowyer continues to volunteer every campaign, because doing so contributes to the community and helps those in need.
“It’s a time in my life where I have the opportunity to volunteer and help others. So why not?” he said. “You get a real sense of community and helping others by reaching out and volunteering. I’ll keep doing it as long as I can.”
Shoreview resident Tom O’Brien and Chas Jensen, from St. Paul, continue to bell ring together every campaign because it spreads cheer and raises money for the good things the Salvation Army does for the community.
“When I read about the Salvation Army helping out somewhere where there is a need, it makes me feel connected to it,”
“It’s good for me to see someone walk up to the door with the weight of the world on their shoulders and suddenly be confronted with us,” Jensen said. “At the very least, the big smile that crosses their face is worth it.”
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-4071226 or shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com.
BY THE NUMBERS
Twin Cities bell ringing volunteers in 2024
Total volunteer hours
Divisional (Minnesota and North Dakota) volunteers
Total volunteer hours
Twin Cities program/year-round volunteers
Volunteer hours
Divisional volunteers
Volunteer hours
Plumbing Services and Repair
O’Brien said. “The smiles, dances, songs and conversations are so much fun.”
Jensen said he continues to sign up every year because the previous year was so much fun and the
Shoreview Community Foundation Advisory Board provides grants to nonprofit organizations serving the Shoreview community. We extend our congratulations to the following 2026 recipients:
Also a wonderful selection of apples, cider, jams & jellies, beautifully packaged in gift boxes and baskets. Pies for the holidays ... apple pies, pumpkin pies, and more from Pine Tree’s own recipes.
• Every Meal - Summer food bags for youth distributed at Shoreview YMCA
• Gallery 96 & Shoreview Bike and Trails Committee – Community-based, mural art project in the trail tunnel under Highway 96 near Shoreview Community Center
• Green Card Voices - Storytelling and arts program from immigrant perspectives at Shoreview Library and Community Center to strengthen community belonging
• Help a Neighbor - Daily snack for students who would otherwise not have a daily snack during the school year
• Midwest Special Services - Artists-in-residence program for adults with disabilities
• NYFS - Child-Centered Play therapy for low-income families
• Shoreview YMCA - Water and swim safety lesson for at-risk youth
• Tubman Center - Legal advocacy for victims of domestic violence in Shoreview
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign runs through Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. Funds raised during the campaign will go back into the community.
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids
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WINTER 2025/26 SPORTS PREVIEWS
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW HOCKEY // GIRLS
Mounds View-Irondale was 4-19-3 last year with a young team, but have started the current season 6-0-1, led by Sarah Johnson with 14 goals and Mia Simones with eight and goalie Kayla Kearin with a .931 save percentage, all juniors. Johnson led with 16 goals last year.
“Our team is building off having a lot of returning depth, especially with our forwards,” Coach Sami Miller said. “We are a fast, high scoring, offensive team.”
Other returning regulars are senior forwards Taylor Metz and Kylie Dahl and defender Annelli Hagen; junior forward Aubrey Cummins and defender Reese Demeny; and sophomore forwards Ana Koepcke, Claire Milbert and Stella Hagen and defenders Maria Walsh and Katie Koch.
Also skating varsity this year are senior forward Lydia Vanderbilt, junior defender Avery Westlund, sophomore forwards Ariel You and Addison Poppler and freshman defender Bayleigh King, who has eight assists already.
“Some goals for this season,” Miller stated, “are to finish higher in the Suburban East Conference (and) to have a higher seed in sections. We are expecting to be a fast, disciplined, offensive team that is fun to watch.”
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW HOCKEY // BOYS
Mounds View had a 5-22 record last season with a young squad, and is poised to move up a few notches this year.
“I’m excited about the team this season,” said Coach Darrell Schulte. “They're a good skating group that moves the puck well. I really appreciate how coachable they are and how well they take to the concepts we're teaching them.”
Returning lettermen are two seniors, defender Jack Wendland and goalie Sam Hagel, and seven juniors: defenders Cal Anderson and Isaac Snider and forwards Chase Ballinger, Russ Eck, Frederich Rech, Tobias Walseth and Gabe Corbo. Walseth had eight goals and 10 assists last year, Eck seven goals and nine assists and Snider 10 assists and two goals. Also skating on varsity are senior defenseman Joe Peloquin and forward Tony Cook; junior forwards Jacob Dixon and Joaquin Vazquez and goalie Mason Lobe; and sophomore defensemen Oliver Marshall and Charlie Quick.
“I’m looking to transition quickly and apply pressure on the other team as much as possible,” said Schulte. “I think this team is very balanced and can do a lot of great things on the offensive and defensive ends of the rink.”
Goals are to have “great, competitive practices, develop and learn each week” and rack up wins.
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW BASKETBALL // GIRLS
Mounds View has four of their top seven back from a 14-13 team with a good chance to move up a few notches.
Maddie Schneider, sharpshooting senior wing, averaged 12.8 points last year. Jaycie Helmer, now in eighth grade, was entrusted with the point guard role as a seventh grader and averaged 10 points. Other letter winners back are junior Taylor Whitehill (6.6 ppg) and senior Ivy Nystrom (4.3 ppg) The starting five consists of those four players and senior Avery LaNore. Also seeing action will be senior Zoe Schwieters, juniors Audrey Pritchard and Maddie Tracy and sophomore Brooke Whitehill.
“We have a team of solid guard play with players who can shoot the three and score at the rim,” Coach David Bratland assessed. “Avery LaNore provides a really nice presence inside.” Several of the players have little previous varsity experience “so the team is a work in progress and will develop and improve as the season goes.”
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW BASKETBALL//BOYS
Mounds View will field a team with little varsity experience after the top eight players graduated from last year’s 20-8 season. On the plus side, this year’s lineups are moving up from an unbeaten sophomore team and a 20-6 junior varsity team.
“We will be very young. We have some strong shooters and players with a high basketball IQ,” Coach Dave Leiser said. “We will need to play as a team as we quickly gain experience and adjust to the faster and more physical play of varsity high school basketball. This is a high character team with great potential.”
The squad includes seniors Ben Young (6-1 guard), Qani Mohamed (6-3 forward), Basil Casper (6-3 forward), Tate Sorensen (6-8 center) and D’Mari McMillan (6-2 forward); juniors Rylan Happel (5-10 guard), Andrew Aitkin (6-2 guard), Reid Defeyter (6-2 guard) and Tyler Nelson (6-0 guard); and sophomores Dominic Barrett (6-1 guard) and Will Arnold (6-3 forward).
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW NORDIC SKIING
Mounds View’s Nordic program has a marquee name in Linnea Ousdigian, state champion the past two seasons, and this year the head coach is her father, Kevin Ousdigian.
“Last spring, Ian O'Neill resigned as Mounds View Nordic coach,” Kevin Ousdigian explained. “Mounds View couldn't get anyone else to head coach so I'm taking it on. Scott Oberg is a teacher who will help, as well as a couple other parents.”
Linnea Ousdigian, now a junior, will try becoming the state’s first threepeat girls champion. Meanwhile, one other all-conference skier is back, senior Jackson Ashbach.
Both Mustang teams placed second in the conference last season. The girls were second in the section, qualifying for the state meet, where they were 11th of 16 team. The boys were third in the section.
The boys lineup this year will likely be seniors Ashbach, Ted Chresand and Riley Fields, and juniors Maxwell Hanson, Jack Kalmes and Hunter Miller.
The girls lineup will consist of senior Noelle Boyd, juniors Leah Marchek, Betsy Nelson, Ousdigian and Emma Stupar, and sophomores Cora Gentry and Claire Secord.
Coach Ousdigian is pleased with a large turnout.
“We have 50 avid skiers who came out for Nordic this year,” he reported. “The boys have numerous skiers ready to step up for varsity. They will be working together to challenge each other to get better individually and make state as a team. The girls team is younger so they will continue working to improve their skiing to qualify for state for a second consecutive year.”
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW ALPINE SKIING
Coach Eric Saari anticipates a good showing by the Mustangs.
“In addition to pretty solid one to five spots on boys and girls varsity,” Saari said, “Mounds View alpine has a bunch of younger skiers who will be exciting to watch as the season gets going. I expect we'll see some upsets throughout the season and an evolving varsity roster.”
Mounds View boys were fourth in the conference last season and the girls sixth. Returning skiers who had the best seasons last year are seniors Luke Bartel and Aline Greiling. Also, among the leaders this year will be seniors Grant Wood and Anthony Kurilov and junior Gwen Gruman. There are several more letter winners back, Saari added.
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW SWIMMING & DIVING // BOYS
The Mustangs have 23 returning lettermen from a team that went 6-3 in dual meets and placed second in the section, headed by senior sprinter Danny Bai, who medaled at state with fourth place in the 100 and fifth in the 50.
“Some of our consistently high-performing athletes,” said Coach Chris Yauch, “were Danny Bai, Ben Lawrence, Grayson and Holden Then, Sithsovann Pin-Mene and Emmett Haller, with rookie Sammy Snider having a breakout season as a 7th grader.”
Returning lettermen are seniors Bai, Lawrence, Grayson Then and Andrew Higley; juniors Pin-Mene, Haller, Robbie Arndt, Tyler Arndt, Drew Bangasser, Charlie Collins, Jay Defeyter, Alex Olson (diving), Thomas Quackenbush, Paul Wold and Thomas Zhao; sophomores Holden Then, Jacob Moore, and Micah Prindle (diving); freshman Charlie Hieb (diving), and eighth-graders Snider, Ben Edmund, Charlie Hare and Cullen Lapsley.
Also swimming varsity will be Quackenbush, Collins, Defeyter, Wold, Moore, Rowan Hansing and Lapsley.
“We have several swimmers who are strong competitors in multiple events,” Yauch said, “so we will be pretty flexible with how we approach meets and who ends up filling in spots left open by last year’s seniors.”
Many of the swimmers train pretty consistently out-of-season so Yauch said he’s expecting very strong performances out of the gate. Goals are to finish third or better in the conference and win section true-team and MSHSL meets.
MUSTANGS // MOUNDS VIEW WRESTLING
Coming off two seasons with a combined 57-3 record and a 2024 state runner-up finish, Mounds View has some big holes to fill with the graduation of four seniors who won a combined 667 matches.
“We are in a reloading phase this year,” Coach Daniel Engebretson said.
“We return a great group of leaders and some younger guys that are eager to prove themselves. We are excited to see what this season brings and ready for the challenges.”
The Mustangs were 27-2 last year, losing only to Stillwater to finish second in the conference and section. In The Guillotine’s preseason rankings, Mounds View is No. 6.
The Mustangs still bring back five state qualifiers, including three who medaled at state — Owen LaRose, senior, 41-8 and fifth at 114 pounds; Will Schneider, senior, 36-13, sixth at 133; and Caden Grenier, sophomore, 46-10 and sixth at 172. The others are junior Braeden Maxey, 285, and sophomore Silas Helmer, 145.
Two more returning starters are senior Jack Hatton (third at sections) and sophomore Linking Herr (fourth at sections). Vying for spots in the lineup are seniors Adam Hall, Ethan Benson and Robert Essie, juniors Patch Builera and Kavon Essie and freshman CJ Edwards.
The Mounds View “Viewettes” have a 12-member Jazz team competing with a modern lyrical dance to the Christina Aguilera song “One More Day,” and a 22-member High Kick team competing with a “fun, energetic and entertaining” Girl Scout mix of songs called “Scoutin,” Coach Katie Amundson reported.
They’ve had one conference Jazz meet already and placed first. Their first Kick meet will be Dec. 4 at Woodbury
Senior captains are Mirabelle Anderson, Jaidan Mitchell, Natalie Prudhomme, Anna Schwientek, Eleni Van Cleave and Liv Wise.
The squad has 17 new members, Amundson noted.
“We are so excited that our program is growing and we can’t wait to improve and excel together as a team over the next several months.”
Mounds View/Irondale 8-0-1 in first month
One year after Mounds View/Irondale (MVI) won a total of four games, the Mustangs have already doubled that photo in November with an 8-0-1 start.
“Our team is building off of having a lot of returning depth, especially with our forwards,” said Coach Sami Miller. “We are expecting to be a fast, disciplined, offensive team that is fun to watch.”
Sarah Johnson has tallied 19 goals and 12 assists, and Mia Simones has 11 goals and six assists. Both are junior forwards. In the nets, junior Kayla Kearin has a .919 save percentage and 2.07 goals-against average.
The Mustangs had a 2-2 tie with Forest Lake (2-5-1) while defeating Osseo/ Park Center 4-2, East Ridge 5-1, White Bear Lake 6-3, Park 7-4, North Wright County 4-2, Stillwater 4-1, Chisago
Lakes 5-3 and North Shore 3-2.
“Some goals for this season,” said Miller, “are to finish higher in the Suburban East Conference as well as hoping to have a higher seed in sections.”
Miller was an All-America goalie for Wisconsin-River Falls and made all-conference three times, after a high school career a Spring Lake Park. She was named Scholar-Athlete of the Year for the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Ath-
Skate with the Mustangs brings in the herd
Members of Mounds View Irondale Youth Hockey got the chance to skate with the Mounds View Boys Hockey team at the end of November at the TCO Sports Garden. Youth Hockey members got to know the Mounds View Hockey team during some ice fun. Afterwards, there was a Mounds View Hockey Alumni game.
Girls basketball: Mustangs win first 3 games
Mounds View girls basketball has started the season 3-0 with stout defense and balanced scoring. The Mustangs defeated Robbinsdale Armstrong 7639, Minneapolis Southwest 73-43 and Shakopee 56-40. Jaycie Helmer, eighth-grader, in her second year at point guard, has scored 53 points, including 25 against Southwest and 22 against Armstrong.
SPORTS BRIEF
Leather & Laces hosts
Bottle Bash
The Leather & Laces adult synchronized skating team will host a Bottle Bash from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 at Roddy’s Bar & Grill, located at 2541 7th Ave. E, St. Paul. The event will include multiple 50/50 raffles, bottle
Taylor Whitehall has tallied 35 points and was high against Shakopee with 17. Maddie Schneider is next with 33 points, Avery Lanore has 21 and Audrey Pritchard 18.
Bruce Strand
raffles and a chance to win grand prizes. The event helps raise funds for the team’s competitive season, which will kick off at the University of Minnesota’s Ridder Arena Dec. 12-13. Team members range in age from 22 to 58.Skaters hail from White Bear Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Shoreview, among other cities.
letics Conference in 2023, majoring in elementary education. MVI and Woodbury share the Suburban East Conference lead with 4-0-1 conference records, followed by Stillwater 3-1-1 and East Ridge 2-2.
Looking ahead for SPORTS
GIRLS BASKETBALL
7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3—vs. New Prague
5:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5—vs. Roseville
7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10—at White Bear Lake
7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12—vs. East Ridge
NORDIC SKIING
4:10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3—Les Bolstad Golf Course
3:40 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9—at Elm Creek Park
3:40 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11—at Lake Elmo Park Reserve
BOYS SWIM & DIVE
5:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4—vs. Multiple schools
6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11—vs. Forest Lake
GYMNASTICS
6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4—at Stillwater
6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11—at Park
DANCE TEAM
7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4—at Woodbury
10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6— at Hutchinson
7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11—at Irondale
BOYS HOCKEY
7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4—at White Bear Lake
7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6—vs. East Ridge
7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10—at Park
7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11—vs. Park
2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13—vs. Forest Lake
BOYS BASKETBALL
7:15 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5—vs. St. Anthony Village
7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9—vs. White Bear Lake
7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12—at East Ridge
WRESTLING
10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6—at Lakeville North 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12—at Andover
GIRLS HOCKEY
1:15 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6— at Roseville 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10—vs. Woodbury
Sarah Johnson is a big reason Mounds View/Irondale has started the season 8-0-1 after winning just four games last season. The 5-foot-8 junior forward has delivered 19 of the team’s 39 goals and assisted on 12 others. Last week, she had two goals and two assists in a 5-3 win over Chisago Lakes, then two goals in a 3-2 win over North Wright County. A starter since eighth grade, Johnson has amassed 62 career goals already. ATHLETE
Sarah Johnson
Mounds View Hockey
December 2, 2025
Bruce Strand
Shoreview Northern Lights Variety Band hosts a
Bring the family to the Shoreview Northern Lights Variety Band Holiday Concert on Saturday, Dec. 13, at Benson Great Hall on the Bethel University campus. The concert is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. There will be carriage rides from the parking lot to Benson Great Hall beginning at 6:15 p.m.
This year’s concert features a variety of seasonal audience favorites, plus new holiday compositions. The Minnesota Boychoir, directed by Mark Johnson, will be a special guest.
Tickets are available online at www.snlvb.com and tickets.bethel.edu and can be purchased in person at Shoreview City Hall, the Benson Great Hall Box Office and at the door.
Benson Great Hall is located at 39000 Bethel Drive, Arden Hills.
Spend a morning with Santa in his workshop
Spend a morning at Santa’s workshop with breakfast, crafts and a visit with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Shoreview Community Center. There will
CONTRIBUTED
Santa’s workshop will be on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 9 -10 a.m. or 10:30 - 11:30a.m.
be two sessions available. One session will take place from 9-10 a.m. and the other will be from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Registration is required for each guest, including adults and children. Register through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation website at www.shoreviewmn. gov/Parks-rec. The Shoreview Community Center is located at 4580 Victoria St. N.
Attend a secret holiday shopping spree Dec. 13
Children are invited to find the perfect gift for friends and family with the help of a personal shopper at the Secret Holiday Shopping Spree from 9 a.m.noon Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Shoreview Community Center. Register through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation website at www.shoreviewmn.gov/Parksrec. The Shoreview Community Center is located at 4580 Victoria St. N.
Enjoy an afternoon of holiday tea
Spend an afternoon socializing over an assortment of tea and desserts at the Shoreview Community Center from 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17. There will also be a performance by the North Suburban Chorus. Pre-registration is required. Registration is open until Friday, Dec. 12. Sign up through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation website at www.shoreviewmn. gov/Parks-rec. The Shoreview Community Center is located at 4580 Victoria St. N.
DEPARTMENT
As temperatures fall and ice begins forming on ponds, small lakes and other waterways, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is encouraging parents and guardians to talk with their kids about the importance of safety on the ice and around the water.
Falling into the water, whether through thin ice or into open water, can turn tragic quickly. It has the potential to incapacitate the strongest swimmers, so it is up to parents and guardians to teach their kids about the dangers of cold water and ensure they’re properly supervised anytime they’re around water.
“Kids tend to be curious about the water, but they might not understand the dangers,” said Captain Adam Block, boating law administrator for the DNR. “Every type of waterway can be dangerous this time of year, from small neighborhood ponds all the way to our largest lakes and rivers.”
The DNR said wearing a foam-filled life jacket is the best way to stay safe around cold water and
CITY BRIEF
Rental licenses in Shoreview expire Dec. 31
All rental licenses in the city will expire on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Applications for a new license must be submitted before Jan. 1, 2026. A license can be
SCHOOL BRIEF
Mounds View School Board accepts applicants for open seat
In accordance with state statutes, School Board Chair Diane Glasheen said the board
survive an unexpected fall in. Foam is better than inflatable life jackets this time of year, since the latter might not fully inflate in cold water. In addition, Block recommends people carry a phone in case they need to call for help, let others know where they’re going and when they plan to return. He also encouraged people to form a plan for how to deal with an unforeseen incident.
For more information about surviving a fall into cold water, visit mndnr.gov/safety/boatwater/ cold-water.html.
Prepare your yard trees for fall, winter
As temperatures drop, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reminds homeowners to take simple steps to keep their yard trees healthy through the fall and winter.
Fall care
Water trees until the ground freezes, especially newly planted or young trees. A tree that was recently planted needs 15 to 20 gallons of water once a week if it doesn’t rain more than one inch. Main-
renewed if the property meets city code, the utility bill is current and no conduct issues are present.
taining soil moisture helps keep trees healthy. Mulch helps insulate tree roots, especially on extremely cold days. Apply a layer of mulch 3 inches deep around the base of the tree, keeping it 3 inches away from the trunk and 3 feet wide.
Winter care
Winter is a great time to give trees some attention. Protect young trees from wildlife and prepare them for healthy growth come spring by:
• Clearing tall grass, brush or other materials that could shelter small animals near the tree bases.
• Placing wire fencing 2 to 3 inches below the ground and extending it at least 2 feet above the expected snow depth. Make sure to check the fencing on a regular basis to make sure wildlife isn’t trapped inside.
• Wrapping trees or adding guards to help protect the bark from cracking caused by daytime sun and overnight freezing. Remove the guards in late spring.
For more information and tips on caring for trees year-round, visit mndnr.gov/treecare.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
For more information, go to www. shoreviewmn.gov/Services/Housing/ Rental-housing-licenses or call 651-4904680. Licenses can be renewed online.
will be accepting applicants to fulfill the rest of Jonathan Weinhagen’s term after he resigned from the school board in November. Weinhagen’s term expires on Jan. 3, 2028. Glasheen said interested and qualified candidates can download an application at www.
mvpschools.org/board or contact the Superintendent’s Office. Applications will be accepted until noon on Friday, Dec. 12. The board will then review applications the week of Dec. 15 and set interviews for dates to be determined in January 2026.
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andArts Culture
EMERGING ARTIST: KAIDEN SCHREINER
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
An actor performs, yet a hurdle that many actors must clear is learning how to adjust their performance depending on their audience.
Thirteen-year-old Kaiden Schreiner, of White Bear Lake has been performing in front of a camera since he was two months old, with modeling work, TV commercials for Target and Walgreens and a role in “American Crime Story” under his belt. This winter, though, marks the first time Kaiden has performed in front of a live audience.
CONTRIBUTED
As a cast member of Children’s Theatre Company’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” Schreiner is on stage in front of a 700-seat auditorium.
Though “The Grinch” is Schreiner’s first theatrical role, his on-camera performances
‘FROZEN’
BY LOGAN GION
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Cast members of Children’s Performing Arts’ upcoming production of “Frozen JR.” had seen the 2013 Disney movie, about Elsa, a wayward princess with uncontrollable icy magic powers and her sister, Princess Anna, who must bring her home. The cast members did not know, however, how different the stage version would be.
Those differences made eighth-grader Brayden Walsh reexamine what he thought he knew about his character, Kristoff, an iceman who aids Princess Anna on her journey, eventually becoming her love interest. “When I was a kid, I
have helped prepare him. “You have to be really confident in front of a camera,” he explained. “You cannot be nervous, like, at all. They’ll think ‘You might not do a really good job at this.’” Schreiner also believes performing arts can help young people overcome social anxiety. “When you’re working with a team, you get to really know the people. If you have social anxiety you eventually start clicking with everybody, and you don’t have it anymore.”
Still, live theater has been a transition for Schreiner. “It’s a lot different,” Schreiner described. “For modeling, you’re only in front of a couple directors and maybe a
couple of people that help out with props. But in theater, there’s just a lot more people, a lot more going on.” Schreiner also pointed out that shooting a scene and staging a scene are different. “For modeling, you really just have to look at a camera and take a couple pictures or film a couple scenes—then you have to redo it over and over again. But then, if you’re in a play, there’s no redos.”
The one-and-done nature of live performance is why Schreiner believes people should see Children’s Theater Company production of “The Grinch.” “People, they’ll watch Christmas movies, but eventually, (the same version) gets boring. So come see live versions of things,” Schreiner exclaimed. “I just feel like it’s a lot cooler to see that instead of staring at a screen.”
Going forward, Schreiner plans to audition in more theater productions. “I might start doing my local theater,” he said. “Don’t get me wrong—I love Children’s Theatre, and I love doing plays here. I love coming to see them too!”
“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas” runs now through Jan. 4, 2026. For tickets and more details, visit childrenstheatre.org.
HEATS UP AT CHILDREN’S PERFORMING ARTS
thought his goal was to get with Anna, but that’s not really his goal … He’s kind of like Han Solo,” Walsh explained. “The only time you see you him really emotional or caring is when they’re getting chased by wolves or whatnot, and his sleigh—he really puts it all into him and his stuff.”
Of course, Kristoff makes an exception for his reindeer, Sven, whom tenth grader Layla Lee plays in this production. Her character occasionally speaks in the stage version, whereas Sven is non-verbal in the movie.
“Kristoff talked for me in the movie, but in the musical, he’s the only one who can understand me,” Lee explained. Interacting with other characters requires
Lee to rely on facial expressions and body language. Since performing for a live audience is different than performing for a camera, Lee has had to be more exaggerated in her movements. “I don’t think there’s a line of too much in theater,” she stated. “Having fun with a character brings a lot of joy to the audience.”
That joy is the reason eighthgrader Avalyn Kelly, who plays Princess Anna, believes people should see this production. “It’s just a really, really fun show,” she said. She also thinks those who attend will be surprised and delighted by the differences from the movie. “There’s different orders of things, and, of course, everyone plays the characters
differently,” stated Kelly. “They added some songs, took some from other songs—it’s a lot different than the movie.”
Sixth grader Henry Knutson, this production’s Olaf, a sentient snowman whom Elsa creates, also believes the differences make this show a must-see. “You could listen to a song in here, or maybe a bit of a scene that you never thought of,” Knutson said. “So a one-chance opportunity, or you’ve got to wait until, like, I don’t know, Broadway.”
Children’s Performing Arts’ production of “Frozen JR.” runs Dec. 5-7 and Dec. 12-14 at LILA Upper School, 19850 Fenway Ave., Forest Lake. For tickets and further details, visit childrensperformingartsmn.org.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR WINTER THEATER CLASSES
All classes take place at Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake. To register, visit childrensperformingartsmn. org/classes-workshops
SATURDAY MORNING DROP-IN
Grades: K-2
Dates: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturdays, Dec. 13, Jan. 24 and Feb. 21
Details: Classes focus on creative play and fostering imagination. Each week, students will read books, play games, do crafts and create characters.
PIZZA PERFORMANCE POP UPS
Grades: 6-12
Dates: 6-9 p.m. Saturdays Dec. 13, Jan. 24 and Feb. 21
Details: Students will come together for socializing and pizza, then break into groups to work on scenes assigned to them. At the end of the night, all students will get to perform for each other.
DECEMBER EVENTS
‘ANNIE’
Location: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Dates: Now through Dec. 14
Details: Little orphan Annie is given the chance of a lifetime when she’s invited to spend Christmas at the mansion of billionaire Oliver Warbucks in 1930s New York. Full of iconic songs, Annie is a joyful holiday tradition the whole family will love. Tickets and availability can be found at lakeshoreplayers.org.
FESTIVAL OF TREES
Location: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake
Dates: 10 a.m-3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays now until Dec. 20
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Lake Area High School’s new Performing Arts Center (PAC) has state-of-the-art technological capabilities, allowing students to put on incredible shows. But it also allows the school to host incredible traveling shows.
Case in point, Lakeshore Players will be presenting Lightwire Theater’s “A Very Electric Christmas” on the PAC stage next month. An “America’s Got Talent” standout, Lightwire Theater has performed across the globe for over a decade, receiving praise from CBS Sunday Morning, TV Guide and
BroadwayWorld. They have chosen White Bear Lake as their next tour stop.
“We were looking or an opportunity to be able to present something and to collaborate with the new White Bear Performing Arts Center,” said Lakeshore Players’ Managing Director Megan Pence, motioning out her office window
to the PAC two blocks away. “We’re so close.”
Pence added that the Hanifl stage is currently hosting “Annie,” while White Bear’s PAC would otherwise sit empty between the fall musical and winter one-act. Additionally, Pence explained that the bigger venue now lets White Bear attract traveling tours who
can only afford a brief stop. It also provides a closer alternative for northeast metro residents than seeing a show in downtown Minneapolis.
“You totally can. You can absolutely do that, but we have we have great facilities here so let's take advantage of them,” Pence said before adding, “Also, there’s usually free parking.”
Pence believe Lightwire Theater’s “A Very Electric Christmas” will appeal to families looking for a holiday attraction that puts a different spin on tradition. The show takes place mostly in the dark, with electroluminescent wiring outlining enormous puppets. The Lightwire puppeteers will
then tell the story of Max, a bird blown off course to the North Pole. Max’s magical journey will feature music from Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey and the Nutcracker Suite.
“It’s going to be a really nice outing for a family,” Pence said. “It’s going to be a really fun show and will open us up to other opportunities of collaborating together in the future.”
Lakeshore Players presents Lightwire Theater’s “A Very Electric Christmas” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the White Bear Lake Area Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division St. For tickets and further details, visit lakeshoreplayers.org.
Details: See who in the area has the best tree decorating skills at the Festival of Trees. On Dec. 6 and 13, we’ll be offering cocoa, fun holiday treats and activities—even a possible sighting of Santa himself.
PJS WITH SANTA
Location: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 E. County Road F, Vadnais Heights
Dates: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5
Details: Games, treats and photos with Santa. Parents must accompany children throughout the event. Wear pajamas if you like; cameras are encouraged. Optional donations—unopened toys, non-perishable food items or money—will be collected for the Vadnais Heights Lions Toy/ Food Drive.
Kaiden Schreiner
GLEN STUBBE PHOTOGRAPHY