Beginning on July 6, Shoreview residents will be able to have their compost collected directly from their homes as part of the Ramsey County/Washington County Food Scraps Pickup Program.
Currently, the program is offered in more than 28 cities and towns within the two counties. In Ramsey County, the program has been implemented in Maplewood and North St. Paul. This summer, cities within Ramsey County such as North Oaks, New Brighton, Arden Hills, Gem Lake, White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights will also roll out the program.
Food scrap pickup program available this summer
Ramsey and Washington counties have worked together since the 1980s to manage trash responsibly, according to Annalee Garletz, who supervises the Food Scraps Pickup Program for Ramsey/Washington Recycling and Energy.
According to Reyna Chavez from Ramsey County, there are a few ways residents can recycle food scraps at home. One of the ways Chavez mentioned is at home composting.
“We’re always finding ways to reduce, reuse, recycle,” said Garletz at the 2026 Environmental Speaker Series, presented by the Shoreview Environmental Quality Committee.
Food scraps comprise more than 20% of household trash by weight. By separating these materials, residents can help turn it back into soil instead of becoming waste, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conversing resources.
“Many people do it…It does have its limitations such as its seasonal and you can’t put your bones in there or dairy,” she said. Residents who do participate can compost their fruit and vegetable scraps, however.
The second way is through drop off sites. Residents can bring collected food scraps, such as fruit, vegetables, meat and bones, to compost facilities located throughout the county. The third way residents can
Remembering Nicole Amor: ‘We were really close to forever’
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
The first time Joey Amor saw the woman who would later become his wife, she was sitting on the back of his truck smoking a cigarette outside the military training barracks in Fort Eustis, Virginia.
“I was walking back to my truck, and I was like ‘who the heck is this woman sitting on the back of my truck?’” he recalled.
Joey didn’t get to speak to her that night, but weeks later, classmates gathered for drinks on the final night of training. He recognized her as the girl who had been sitting on his truck.
“I mustered up some courage and started talking to her. We spent the entire night talking. We literally sat there and talked until the sun came up,” Joey said. “That was the start of it.”
More than a decade later, after two children (Owen and Adeline) and multiple deployments, Joey is grieving Nicole’s loss and preparing for his first Memorial Day without her.
Master Sgt. Nicole (Hoff) Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, was one of six Army Reserve Officers killed while supporting Operation Epic Fury. Nicole enlisted in the National Guard as an automated logistics specialist in 2005. In 2006, she transferred to the Army Reserve. She was deployed to Kuwait and Iraq in 2019. (Joey served in the Army Reserves from 2008 to 2013.)
“The words ‘duty and responsibility’ held something different for her. She genuinely believed in
Nicole Amor
WHAT’S HAPPENING
SHOREVIEW FARMERS MARKET
When: 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2
Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.
Details: Feature fresh local produce and handcrafted artisan goods.
Contact: shoreviewmn.gov
ONGOING EVENT
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
DOG DAYS
When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 23
Where: Washington St. and Railroad Park, downtown White Bear Lake
Details: Meet dog rescue organizations, discover dog-loving local
vendors and enjoy a day that's as fun for you as it is for your pup - all while giving back to the dogs who need it most.
Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com
LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD MONTHLY MEETING
When: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, May 26
Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church, rear entrance, Door G, 3920 Victoria St. N, Shoreview Details: After a brief business meeting, the annual Garage Sale will take place. Members of the Lakeshore Quilt Guild will be selling various items such tools, patterns, material and completed projects. Visitors are welcome. Contact: lakeshorequiltersmn.org
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26
Where: YMCA, 2100 Orchard Lane, White Bear Lake
Details: Hike paved and dirt tails through Lakewood Hills Park and residential streets, approximately 3 miles.
Contact: stpaulhike.com
BUSINESS BRIEF
The Chickadee Boutique closes its doors
The Chickadee Boutique has officially closed its doors after being in business for 47 years. The boutique, located at 207 Saint Marie Street in Shoreview, opened in 1979. It was located on the property of longtime Shoreview resident Jacci Krebsbach in a cottage and ran by Krebsbach and five of her friends. The boutique featured handcrafted original works such as pottery, jewelry, floral arrangements, fabric clothing and accessories from local artists.
COUNTY BRIEF
Newly renovated Ramsey County Government Center improves quality of service
Ramsey County’s place to go for many government services is now renovated, modernized and open to the public with a new name: the Ramsey County Government Center (RCGC). Improvements throughout the facility provide a more welcoming and efficient experience for everyone, according to the county.
Formerly known as Metro Square, the RCGC is redesigned to improve access to services and support. The new facility brings in public-facing services, state and county programs and county departments all under one roof.
Some departments include finance, financial assistance services, housing stability, human resources, information services, property management, public works, social services and workforce solutions.
Additional departments and divisions may move to the RCGC in the future, such as communications and public relations, as well as compliance and ethics.
The Ramey County Government Center is located at 121 Seventh Place E, St. Paul. For more information, visit www.ramseycountymn.gov/ramsey-county-government-center.
Madeline Dolby
CONTRIBUTED
When new neighbors become old friends
BY CAROL BROWN-MILLS SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
For four decades, the North Suburban New Neighbors Club (NSNNC) has been transforming new neighbors into old friends with a warm welcome, engaging activities and opportunities for community service. What began as the Welcome Wagon Club of four women meeting in their homes in 1988, has swelled to a roster of 98 filling the Community Room at the Shoreview Library with “coffee and conversation” on the second Thursday of every month.
That’s just the beginning. At the April meeting, plans for upcoming events percolated: A trip to the Waldoch Garden Center, the spring luncheon at a local restaurant, a hike on Brown’s Creek Trail in Stillwater. There was still time to remind members of the monthly board meeting, vote on the slate of new officers and sing to the April birthday girls.
A myriad of special activities and interest groups, as well as outdoor adventurers, meet regularly on specified days of the month. The Program-of-the-Month could take club members anywhere from a Women’s Drum Center to a Buddhist Temple. There is something for everyone. Do you like movies and lunching out? Sewing and crafts? Bridge, book club or Bunco? There is a group for you. If not, members are invited to start a new one. Some even pursue common interests outside the club such as
choral music, travel and line dancing. NSNNC also holds special events throughout the year like wine tasting, ice cream socials and holiday parties. Husbands who would like to get more involved are invited to breakfast with the Romeos.
The NSNNC has persisted in their goals, despite challenge or adversity. They did not let the pandemic slow them down. Meetings were conducted online and activities were held outdoors in the park. While they may have simplified their programs, they continued to focus on helping others in need through charitable contributions to a variety of local causes, including Women’s Advocates and Alexandra House. A favorite community service project was supporting Minnesota’s military families during the holidays. During Operation Metro Surge, NSNNC stepped up to support the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf and Every Meal Food Bank. Their goal was to help fill the gaps of food insecurity impacting so many families in our community.
At the April meeting, two women sat side-by-side nibbling on homemade banana bread. Debbie joined just three months ago. Judy has been an NSNNC member since 1999. As the longest tenured member of the club, it’s no wonder Judy serves as “Sunshine Chair.” She reaches out to neighbors who might need a cheerful boost. The wide variety of club activities are new and exciting to Debbie. She looks forward to getting involved
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES BRIEF
State parks offer recreational opportunities over Memorial Day weekend
In preparation for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is highlighting recreation opportunities across the state parks and trail systems.
“Memorial Day weekend is a meaningful time for people to spend time together outdoors, reflect and recharge,” said Ann Pierce, director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division. “Minnesota’s state parks, recreation areas and trails offer places for people of all ages to experience nature, share outdoor traditions with family and friends, and make lasting memories. We invite everyone to get outside and enjoy the restorative benefits of time in nature.”
Fish, birds, bogs and more
Many state parks and recreation areas offer events and programs led by naturalists. Participants can learn about wildlife, plants, outdoor skills and more. There are more than 70 programs currently scheduled during the holiday weekend. Check the online events calendar at mndnr.gov/ptcalendar for a full list of programming.
Walk, pedal, roll and ride
Minnesota offers more than 1,500 miles of state trails. Many are paved, making them a great option for bikers, in-line skaters or people using wheelchairs or strollers. Some state trails are open to motorized
with the book club, “flick chicks” and outdoor adventurers. Maybe it’s not simply the latest novel, film or hike that will keep Debbie coming until she’s been a “new neighbor” for 26 years like Judy.
It’s likely something more difficult to put your finger on, but vastly more valuable to any woman who finds herself transplanted into a new community. The answer lies somewhere in these comments shared by both longtime and new members of the NSNNC: Everyone is welcoming and friendly. You can choose what you want to do,
no pressure. Sharing and respecting different perspectives. Women listen, support, and learn from each other. Connecting with women of all ages and hearing their stories. You should join us!
To quote Lynette Lindmark, one of the club’s early visionaries, “We moved to this area as strangers, but we were really just friends who had not yet met.”
Those who are interested in joining NSNNC can reach out to Membership Chair Jeanne Andrychowicz at jeanne49th@yahoo.com or 612-616-6142.
use or horseback riding. Find trail maps at mndnr. gov/trails.
Borrow equipment to try a new activity
Most state parks and recreation areas offer free loaner equipment so visitors can try a new activity before purchasing their own gear. Fishing kits, birding kits, kids’ discovery kits and GPS units are available on a first come, first served basis at select ranger stations. More information is available at mndnr.gov/ state_parks/loaner.html.
Enjoy the water
Thirty-two state parks offer rental canoes, kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. Life jackets are included with rentals. In addition, state parks are home to hundreds of lakes and many swimming beaches perfect for a day of play or relaxation. To find state parks with swimming beaches and rentals, use the ParkFinder tool, at mndnr.gov/parkfinder.
Take a tour
Visitors can visit a cave, a bison range or an underground mine on state park tours. Memorial Day weekend is the opening of the summer tour season. Visitors can make tour reservations in advance. All tours have an accessible option for visitors with mobility disabilities. Learn more or reserve a spot at mndnr.gov/tours.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
The March 2026 Program was an interactive visit to the Women’s Drum Center in St. Paul.
This clipping shows the North Suburban New Neighbors Club and how it got its start as the Welcome Wagon Club in 1988.
E-bike evolution
The electric bicycle (e-bike) phenomenon is taking over our streets and sidewalks. Every day I see kids in full-faced helmets zipping around on electric motocross-style motorcycles pulling wheelies and weaving between walkers and cars. These little rocket ships can reach a speed of more than 40 mph. They seen rip down the center of the streets or across sidewalks and parking lots. Heading up Highway 61 in my vehicle, I couldn’t believe an e-bike style motorcycle was keeping up with me on the bike path next to the road.
Publisher’s View
Carter Johnson
E-bikes have three key classifications: class 1 is pedal assist up to 20 miles per hour; class 2 tops out at 20 mph but has a throttle; and level three is pedal assist with a throttle up to 28 miles per hour. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are the most common and are permitted to ride wherever traditional bicycles are allowed; class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on bike paths and trails, but can be ridden on roadways. E-bike riders are required to be at least 15 years of age. We purchased two entry-level e-bikes during the pandemic as a family Christmas gift. Our family has enjoyed riding them immensely. My son regularly takes them out with friends to explore local trails and ride to new destinations. He rides almost daily when he is home, and my wife and I have ridden to Stillwater on the Gateway Trail several times. On a recent trip to Colorado, we rented e-bikes, which allowed us to ride to an old gold-mining town in the mountains, something we wouldn't have been able to do on regular bikes. At our age and fitness level, the pedal assist provided by the e-bikes makes the ride more enjoyable and gives us the freedom to go a distance we wouldn't try on a regular bike. E-bikes are allowing bicycle enthusiasts to continue riding as they age. I'm a big fan.
For the most part it is the electric motocross/ dirt bike style that is causing much of the fear and frustration in our communities. These are extremely quick and nimble units with no ability to pedal, and which can exceed speeds of 50 mph. They are not e-bikes, they are electric mopeds or motorcycles. And when the operators of these vehicles are weaving in and out through pedestrians on the trails and not following traffic laws, it’s unsettling. I think these e-moto bikes look extremely fun. If I were a kid again, I would have loved to ride this kind of dirt bike. The new battery technology and brushless motors are offering the young people typically riding them an immense amount of freedom, but common sense and following the rules needs to prevail.
There is new legislation being proposed in Minnesota regarding e-motos that would reclassify them as motorcycles and restrict them from paths, along with requiring proper licenses, registration, insurance and helmets. It seems like the current law already prohibits this type of vehicle from riding on paths and trails.
Bike safety and compliance has been an issue on our roads long before the invention of e-bikes. Those who regularly walk or run on local paths have likely had a close call with a cyclist at some point. With our books full of laws, why can’t we just enforce the same fundamental rules we already have for traditional pedal bikes and e-bikes? Any bike exceeding the speed limit on a path or a road should be pulled over and the rider should be given a ticket. If a rider is weaving through traffic and does not follow the rules, they should be pulled over and ticketed. I don't think we need more laws, we need better enforcement. Maybe we should require a safety course and license for all bike riders like we have for boaters, hunters and snowmobile riders. I have been a proponent of requiring kayakers and paddlers to take a boater's safety course, and I think it would be good for cyclists, as well.
Our state needs to take action. Let’s get back to some common sense practical ways and solutions to this problem.
Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
Thank you for supporting Shoreview, one another
Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Shoreview Community Foundation’s annual Dinner with Friends, and once again I came away inspired by the generosity and spirit of our community. Events like this are an important reminder that Shoreview’s strength is not only found in our parks, neighborhoods and businesses, but also in the people and organizations who quietly work yearround to support others.
The foundation has become an important community partner through grants that support local arts, youth programs, education, recreation and assistance for residents facing difficult circumstances. This year, they also stepped forward to help residents negatively impacted by Operation Metro Surge by supporting food and rent assistance efforts for those unable to work during that challenging period. Hearing directly from grant recipients about how those funds made a difference was both moving and uplifting.
Their work is made possible through community support and partnerships with local sponsors including Loden and Emrik Apartments, Old National Bank, Mead Metals, PAR Systems, Fairview Specialty Pharmaceuticals
• 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
and many others who continue to invest in Shoreview. One exciting upcoming project is a collaboration between Gallery 96 and the Shoreview Bikeways and Trails Committee to create a mural in the Highway 96 tunnel leading into the community center area. Projects like this help make Shoreview not only functional, but beautiful and welcoming as well. If you would like to learn more about the Shoreview Community Foundation, apply for a grant, donate or explore board opportunities, I encourage you to visit their website. You can also meet some of the board members at the first Concert in the Commons event on June 10, where they will have free ice cream treats for attendees — always a popular tradition as we begin another summer season together.
I also want to take some time this month to talk about a topic many residents have recently contacted the city about: High-speed fiber installations in the right-ofway. While the work can certainly be frustrating at times, particularly when lawns or driveways are impacted, it is important to clarify that these are not city projects. Under both federal and state law, cities are required to allow utility providers access to public rightsof-way for this type of infrastructure installation. However, the city can have some regulations on this work such as requiring a permit, restoring the right-of-way, and contacting residents before installation starts. Our staff continues to work closely with contractors
SHOREVIEW PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
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.
and residents to address concerns and ensure restoration work is completed appropriately. Feel free to visit shoreviewmn.gov/city-projects for more information on the fiber projects.
There is also exciting progress occurring at the Krew development site at the southwest corner of Rice Street and Interstate 694. This long-vacant brownfield property will soon become home to new apartment building, live/ work units, and potential restaurant or retail space. Importantly, 20% of the units will be affordable at 50% of area median income, creating some of the most affordable new housing opportunities developed in Shoreview to date while also being located near public transit. Transforming an underutilized site into new housing, services, and economic activity is an important investment in Shoreview’s future, and we look forward to seeing construction begin later this year.
As Memorial Day weekend approaches, we pause to honor and remember the service members who gave their lives in service to our nation. Many families also use this time to remember loved ones and gather together as summer begins. However, you spend the holiday weekend, I hope it brings time for reflection, gratitude, and connection with family, friends, and community. Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Shoreview and one another.
Sue Denkinger is the mayor of Shoreview.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• 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 shoreviewnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
• Press Publications publishes 99% of letters that meet the guidelines
Movers & Shakers
Sue Denkinger
Gun Control, II: Response to Vic Kascht’s letter
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” (Benjamin Franklin, 1735) A May 5 letter suggested the “cure” for gun violence is to pass a law punishing felons committing gun crimes. Most criminals don’t think they’ll get caught, one reason why the death penalty deters few. If we had a “Democratic-led Minnesota Legislature,” we might get true gun control. Unfortunately, Republicans are 50% of the House. ANY kind of real “gun control” is a non-starter. Their “cure” is “mental health” and other REACTIVE measures. An innocent person will be shot before anything is done to punish the previously “legitimate law-abiding citizen.”
Citizens can learn our Founders’ “original intent” by researching Madison’s original 2nd Amendment (“render military service”) or the May 8, 1792 “Militia Act.” Both provided for COLLECTIVE possession of guns to protect the public. People had guns to do this. There are five Supreme Court rulings, 1792-1939 supporting this.
Civilized nations take gun control seriously. The idea that 360 million people have 400 million guns horrifies them. Often, after ONE mass shooting, laws are passed, and sometimes citizens turn in their guns.
America spends millions, “hardens” schools, installs metal detectors - rather than do one simple thing: make gun possession rare and VERY regulated. If “we” persist in this - there’ll be more Annunciation School shootings; more traumatized children, adults, communities; more innocent people shot - by a former “legitimate law-abiding citizen” having a “bad day.”
“Rights” are rarely 100% unconditionalthere are limits - like prohibiting military-style weapons and large magazines. “Legitimate law-abiding citizens” might have a pistol at home, might have a shotgun or deer rifle. If they claim a “need” to carry a gun for “self-defense” - they’ve admitted a fear of gun violence, which didn’t exist in most of America before recent decades.
Gun violence is a cancer in America. Cancers are removed or treated - BEFORE the person dies. Insanity is repeating failed “solutions;” valuing “gun rights” over children’s lives; forcing people to endure trauma, live in fear.
Tom Dolen Shoreview
PICKUP PROGRAM: Helps reduce waste
recycle food is through the pickup program. Residents who participate in the Food Scrap Pickup Program can choose between 6-gallon and 13-gallon sized bags to use. Households will receive 60 bags per order and are able to receive two orders for free per calendar year. The bags are BPI-certified and are 100% compostable according to Chavez.
Garletz said the Food Scraps Pickup Program is in the process of being rolled out to all Ramsey and Washington County residents. The program will be available to all residents of the two counties by the middle of 2027.
In 2025, 13,531 total residents participated in the program. From that total, 1,891 reside in Ramsey County. Thanks to this program, 210 tons of food scraps have been composted through the program.
Learn more about the program by visiting FoodScrapsPickup.com or by calling 651-661-9393.
Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-4311226 or shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com.
• The city council has proclaimed the week of May 10 through May 16 as Police Week in Shoreview. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy and Congress declared the week that May 15 falls in as National Police Week to honor officers and deputies who gave their lives in the line of duty.
• Wilson’s Nursery will be responsible for the city’s spring tree planting after the council accepted its quote of $29,723 to complete the project. Staff secured grant funding for trees, planting, and maintenance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry program, in partnership with American Forests. The funding is designated for use in five census block groups within the city. Trees will be planted along the west side of Rice Creek Parkway, at Shoreview Hills Apartments, and at Shepherd of the Hills Church.
• The city will enter into a cooperative agreement with Ramsey County for the pavement preservation project on Lexington Avenue after council authorization. As part of Ramsey County’s mill and overlay of Lexington Avenue, it is required that a cooperative agreement be executed with the county that includes cost share participating and ownership and maintenance responsibilities for the city and county. As part of the project, Lexington Avenue will have the
top layer of pavement milled off and new asphalt placed this summer. The project will go from County Road I to County Road J. Shoreview’s estimated cost share is approximately $48,600. The agreement also includes 12% of construction costs for construction engineering services, which is estimated at $5,900. The total cost estimated would be $54,500.
• Dave Perkins Contracting, Inc. will be responsible for the water utility work associated with the Ramsey County pavement preservation project on Lexington Avenue after the council accepted its bid of $139,999. The project will be paid for through the water fund.
• The council has authorized the execution of a development agreement and approved an administrative amendment to the tax increment financing plan for the Krew Apartments redevelopment project. The developer and city continue to work toward the closing on the sale of city-owned property to Enclave Shoreview Rice Street, LLC, in order for the construction of the Krew Apartments redevelopment project to commence. The council also approved the assignment and assumption of the purchase agreement for the project.
• The council has approved the public nuisance abatement of untreated ash trees and
other dead trees on private property that may impact the right of way of 14 properties.
• Council Member Cory Springhorn announced The Chickadee Boutique, owned by Shoreview resident Jacci Krebsbach, will close at the end of this month (see more information in this week’s issue).
• Council Member Springhorn also announced Gallery 96 has their spring exhibition on display in the Community Room at the Ramsey County Library.
• Assistant City Manager Renee Eisenbeisz was recognized at the 2026 Minnesota City County Managers Association for an outstanding service award. According to Mayor Sue Denkinger, it is one of the highest honors. Denkinger acknowledged Eisenbeisz for receiving the award and said Eisenbeisz is an “unsung hero” for the city.
Madeline Dolby
PUBLIC NOTICE
SHOREVIEW
This map shows what cities the Ramsey County/ Washington County Food Scraps Pickup Program is available. The light green showcases cities where the program is already in place. The dark green shows what cities will be eligible for the program beginning on July 6 of this year.
COPS&COURTS
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Shoreview:
• A 44-year-old Mounds View woman reported April 21 being bitten by a dog in the 5900 block of Lexington Avenue North that also bit her dog. The owner of the biting dog was gone by the time an animal control officer arrived on scene. The incident is under investigation.
• Deputies responded April 21 to a report of a crash with injuries in the area of County Road J West and Rice Creek Parkway. A 33-year-old woman was transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries after she was struck by a vehicle. The incident is under investigation.
• A 14-year-old girl in the 4700 block of Hodgson Road reported April 22 that her bicycle was stolen out of her front yard. The incident is under investigation.
• A 38-year-old woman from Ramsey in the 4000 block of Lexington
Avenue North reported April 22 being harassed by her ex-boyfriend, who has been showing up at her place of work and starting arguments.
• Deputies issued a theft citation April 23 to a 64-year-old man from New Brighton after loss prevention employees at a business in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue North caught him attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.
• Deputies responded April 24 to a report of a crash involving a 55-yearold man from Andover in the area of Victoria Street North and I-694. The man hit a utility pole with a Toyota RAV4 and walked away from the scene. An investigation is ongoing.
• Deputies responded April 25 to a report of a theft of merchandise totaling nearly $300 at a business in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue North. An investigation is ongoing.
• Deputies issued a trespass notice April 26 to a 29-year-old woman af-
ter she was seen attempting to leave a store in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue North without paying for merchandise.
• Deputies cited a 17-year-old female for driving without a valid license April 27 after she rear-ended a Chevrolet Yukon in the area of County Road I West and Schutta Road.
• Deputies are investigating a fire in a portable toilet that occurred on May 2 in the 700 block of Mounds Avenue near tennis courts.
• A 39-year-old woman in the 1700 block of Oakwood Drive reported being contacted by a 44-year-old man April 27 whom she has a protection order against after he was outside her house, speaking to her son and connecting to her WIFI.
• Deputies issued a citation April 28 to the owner of an Audi A4, which was illegally parked in a handicapped space outside of a store in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue North.
• Deputies responded April 29 to a business in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue North after someone used fake $100 bills to purchase $1,000s worth of electronics. The incident is under investigation.
• A 69-year-old woman in the 600 block of Bucher Avenue reported May 1 being scammed into sending someone $1,800 after whomever she was speaking to on the phone said her son was in jail, which was not the case. The incident is under investigation.
• A 37-year-old man reported May 1 that someone broke into his vehicle in the 4000 block of Chatsworth Street North and did not steal anything of value. The incident is under investigation.
• A 25-year-old man reported May 1 that someone broke into his Jeep Cherokee in the 4000 block of Chatsworth Street North and stole his wallet. The incident is under investigation.
Resident charged with trafficking women via online ads
Todd James Wallace, 47, of Shoreview, has been charged with trafficking three women through online advertisements in Hennepin County Court earlier this month.
According to the criminal complaint, special agents with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the Minnesota Human Trafficking Investigators Task Force began an undercover operation involving commercial sex ads posted on Adultlook. com between February 2026 to April 2026. Investigators located an ad for “Willow” with a phone number attached. An undercover agent chatted with the phone number provided on the ad. The agent received a reply that stated, according to the complaint, “Half hour is $100 and full hour is $150. Upgrades are available upon request and will ONLY be discussed in person. Cash only (no deposits)…” The agent scheduled an appointment and was told
Submitting Public Notices
Including Foreclosures, Certificates of Assumed Name, Liens, Probates and all other Public Notice Requirements
Contact: Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn E-Mail: Legals@presspubs.com Call: 651-407-1200
4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110, www.presspubs.com, 651-407-1200 • Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
to go to a private residence located in Minneapolis.
The agent cancelled the appointment and received a message that they owed a $50 cancellation fee to reschedule, according to the complaint. The agent was provided with a cash app account to pay the fee. They didn’t respond.
Approximately an hour later, the agent received a text message from a different cell phone number. According to the complaint, the message threatened that the agent had until 12 p.m. to pay the cancellation fee. The agent requested a Venmo account to pay, and the person replied Venmo account “@ Todd-wallace-88.”
After the chat with “Willow,” task force agents searched “Willow’s” phone number and located another ad for “Cheyenne.” Agents messaged the same number attached to the former advertisement. According to the complaint, agents received the same fee and payment information while chatting with “Willow” and agents were provided with the same Minneapolis address.
A day later, agents contacted the same phone number for “Willow” and arranged another appointment. They received the same information regarding the fee structure and payment. They were provided with the same Minneapolis address and scheduled an appointment for 10 a.m. that day.
Task force agents then executed a search warrant at a home in the 200 block of 19th Street East in Minneapolis. At the residence, agents contacted Willow and took possession of her cell phone. Agents spoke with Willow about the ads. She
explained she is not the one communicating with clients, and she does not post the ads. Willow, according to the complaint, identified Wallace as the person who made the ads and handled communication.
Willow told agents Wallace provides clients with a menu of sex acts, which she must perform. According to the criminal complaint, Wallace wanted Willow to recruit more females to the business. Willow knew of a least one other female that Wallace used, who was identified as Cheyenne.
Additionally, agents received a sex trafficking tip regarding a Craigslist ad. The ad was looking for a “spa modeling gig” according to the complaint. The person who placed the ad identified themselves as “James.” The ad provided an address in the 240 block of 17th Avenue North in Hopkins. It was learned the Hopkins Police Department had multiple contacts with the address, and the address is associated with Wallace according to the complaint.
Agents learned Wallace was employed by Anderson United Middle School and went to the school to apprehend Wallace. According to the complaint, school officials did not immediately assist agents with locating Wallace, and school officials notified him of the presence of human trafficking investigators prior to escorting agents to the gymnasium to detain Wallace.
Wallace is in custody and is scheduled to appear in court at 11:15 a.m. on Thursday, May 28.
Madeline Dolby
Shoreview Community Foundation would like to thank the following for sponsoring and supporting our Annual Evening with Friends Gala, a celebration of the people, partnerships, and shared commitment that make
Connecting Shoreview residents through storytelling
BY PREETI MATHUR CONTRIBUTING WRITER
In a time when it can feel all too easy to stay disconnected, an upcoming community gathering offers something different. It’s an opportunity for neighbors to slow down, share a meal, engage in meaningful conversations and build connections across cultures and experiences.
Becoming Neighbors, an evening of connection, storytelling and community in Shoreview will be held on Wednesday, June 3 at the Shoreview Community Center in the Wedell Community Room from 5:30-8 p.m.
Becoming Neighbors, held for the first time in Shoreview, is funded by a grant from the Shoreview Community Foundation. Their mission is to enhance the lives of Shoreview residents by giving grants to various community projects. With support from the City of Shoreview, this gathering also aligns with the broader goal of making Shoreview a vibrant and inclusive city.
After a light dinner, participants will take part in an interactive activity called Story Stitch. This card-based activity was co-designed by Green Card Voices, a Minnesota-based non-profit organization, and 70 dedicated community members. Their goal is to bring diverse groups together and encourage them to share their experiences. Through guided prompts from trained facilitators, participants will exchange stories in a structured, yet welcoming space.
“Story Stitch creates a space where people can slow down, listen deeply, and remember our shared humanity. Again and again, I witness strangers leave as neighbors, connected through vulnerability, courage, and story,” said Tea Rozman, co-founder and co-executive director of Green Card Voices
During the past two years, more than 70 of these sessions have been conducted, with particular impact in schools, workplaces and community settings. “The goals are to share and hear meaningful personal stories, build understanding across diverse lived experiences and strengthen a sense of belonging in our community,” said Program Manager Julie Vang.
“Given the times we are in, watching neighbors open up to each other was emotional in the best way. It’s as true as it has always been—all it takes is simply talking to each other. We are more alike than we are different,” added Megan Cummings-Krueger, a past Story Stitch participant.
As part of the Shoreview Community Foundation grant, Green Card Voices currently also has a 20-banner immigrant stories exhibit at the Shoreview Library. There is also a collection of Green Card Voices titles for Shoreview residents to borrow and read.
Becoming Neighbors is free, but registration is required at shoreviewbecomingneighbors. eventbrite.com. It is open to anyone ages 12 and up.
Matthew Tramm of TRAMM LAW FIRM is honored to be a part of the North Suburban business community and to have the opportunity to serve its valued clients with comprehensive estate planning services.
TRAMM LAW FIRM is proud to be the law firm of choice for many of the top financial planning professionals and firms of the Twin Cities. Seasoned financial planners trust Matthew Tramm with the estate planning component of their client’s overall financial plans. The professionals have trusted him with hundreds of their clients!
TRAMM LAW FIRM can reduce your complex legal, financial, and familial issues to straightforward, simple and understandable solutions and strategies.
TRAMM LAW FIRM is centrally located in North Oaks and conveniently serves clients throughout the Twin Cities and surrounding areas and even makes house calls and hospital calls. Tramm Law Firm prides itself on treating its clients like family.
BLAINE
Memorial Day Calendar
HUGO
MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY
When: 2 p.m., Monday, May 25
CEMETERY TOUR
When: Monday, May 25
Where: Veterans Memorial Park, 10802 Town Square Drive, Blaine
Details: Honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Ceremony features keynote speaker Brigadier General Don Kerr, along with a special memorial bench dedication honoring United States Navy Lt. Junior Grade Stan Nelson, an Omaha Beach D-Day veteran. Contact: www.blainemn.gov
FOREST LAKE
MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE
When: 9-10 a.m., Monday, May 25 Where: Lakeside Memorial Park, Veterans Memorial, 95 East Broadway Ave.
Details: Honor and remember those who gave everything for our freedom. Features keynote speaker and Center Sculpture Artist Linda Marsh, along with a paver presentation by the Forest Lake American Legion. Contact: www.ci.forest-lake. mn.us
Where: Hugo American Legion Post 620, 5383 140th St. N. Details: For the 80th consecutive year, American Legion Post 620 will visit cemeteries to conduct Memorial Day Services. Join the tour at any point in time. Meet at the Hugo American Legion at 6:45 a.m.; Walker Cemetery will be at 7:30 a.m.; Withrow Cemetery at 7:55 a.m.; return to American Legion Clubroom for coffee after Withrow Cemetery; Gethsemane Methodist Cemetery in Lino Lakes at 9 a.m.; Incarnation Lutheran Cemetery in Lino Lakes at 9:25 a.m.; St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Lino Lakes at 10 a.m.; Twitchell Cemetery in Lino Lakes at 10:30 a.m.; visit the Lino Lakes American Legion at 10:45 a.m.; St. Genevieve’s Catholic Cemetery in Centerville at 11:25 a.m.; and end at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Hugo at 11:55 a.m.
Car Show presented by the North Star Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club. There will be a flag raising ceremony at noon. Dash plaques will be given to the first 250 cars, and 50 awards will be given out in addition to the Best in Show. Registration is required for cars; spectators are free.
51ST ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY CAR SHOW
When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, May 25
Where: Blacksmith Lounge, 17205 Forest Blvd. N
Details: Annual Memorial Day
LINO LAKES
MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY AND COMMUNITY PICNIC
When: 5 p.m., Monday, May 25
Where: Lino Lakes American Legion Post 566, 7731 Lino Drive
Details: Honor and remember those that gave their lives. Ceremony starts at 5 p.m., with a community dinner following. Contact: linolakeslegion.com
STILLWATER
VETERANS MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION
Contact: www.northstarstudebakers.com or 612-839-2490
When: 11:30 a.m., Monday, May 25
Where: Stillwater Veterans Memorial, 138 Pine St. W.
Details: The ceremony will include music by the Croix Chordsmen and the Stillwater Area High School band. A flag raising and flyover by the T-6 Thunder Flight Team is planned for noon.
Lettuce celebrate: Joe Faiad retires after
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Joe Faiad’s first job was in the grocery store, and he’s never looked anywhere else.
“When I was 15 years old, my father told me I needed to find something to do, so he drove me down to the old Knowlan’s main office and I put in an application,” Faiad explained. A few months later, after he turned 16, Knowlan’s hired him on April 26, 1978.
Perhaps a grocery store was in his blood. His grandfather, also named Joe Faiad, owned Faiads Grocery on West Seventh Street in St. Paul for nearly 40 years.
Young Joe worked in the produce department at the Knowlan’s store on Randolph Avenue in St. Paul until 1982, when he was promoted to a fulltime position at the Roseville location. “I’ve worked at pretty much all of our stores,” he said. In his 48 years with Knowlan’s (21 years)/Festival (27 years), Faiad has held the titles of produce manager, assistant manager and store manager, but for the past eight years or so, he has worked in the produce department at the Hugo Festival store as a senior retail specialist. Prior to that, he worked at the Festival in White Bear Lake.
He credits his work family, which he calls his “bonus” family, for his choice to stay in the industry for so long. “My work family has always been a vital part of my life. They've been a part of the group of people who've helped me navigate the last 48 years,” he said. “I realized at a young age that it made me feel good to be a part of this work group … I wasn't afraid to work hard, and I've taken lots of pride over the years in doing the best job that I could. I certainly didn't want to let those early mentors of mine down. It meant so much to feel appreciated and valued.”
Hugo Festival Produce Manager
Brian Mishler has known Faiad for over 20 years. They met while working at the Lexington store. “Joe is probably one of the hardest workers you can have. He is a workhorse,” Mishler said. “He is very particular in how things are filled and likes things to be a certain way.”
Produce Supervisor Paul Leslie has known Faiad for 20 years but has served as his supervisor for approximately eight of them. “You will not find a harder-working guy,” he said. “His dedication to quality … the community really benefited from his work ethic.”
Store Director Robin Mishler (No relation to Brian) added, “Joe is one of the kindest men you will ever meet. He is a strong and dedicated employee, whom I personally will miss very much. He has an infectious smile that lights up a room and makes everyone’s day better when they walk into the room. He has been the perfect greeter of customers when they arrive at Festival.”
Perhaps the best part of Faiad’s career was that it introduced him to his wife, Leah.
“I was at the Roseville store, and one of the senior cashiers (Barb Hoag) knew that I was dating a gal, and she wasn't as serious as I was. So, one day by the time clock, she told me, ‘If you ever are looking, and you see a girl here in Roseville, let me know. I know just about every girl in Roseville.’ She pulled out her billfold, and she had a slew of pictures that literally went down to the floor,” Faiad said. “Then a couple of years after that … I was managing, and Barb was my frontend gal. I saw Leah come in with her mom… I kind of winked at Barb, like, ‘Do you remember what you told me two years ago?’ and I nodded towards Leah. And next thing I know, Barb was talking to both her and her mom, and she came back and she told me,
While some seating will be provided, attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
WHITE BEAR LAKE
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE
When: Form at 9 a.m.; parade at 9:30 a.m., Monday, May 25
Where: Meet at White Bear Lake City Hall
Details: The parade will continue to Union Cemetery for the Memorial Day Ceremony
MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY
When: 10 a.m., Monday, May 25
Where: Union Cemetery, Second Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Guests will include VFW Post 1782 leaders, American Legion Post 168 leaders, White Bear Lake Mayor Mary Nicklawske, various political leaders, the fire and police departments and more.
COMRADES LOST AT SEA CEREMONY
When: 2 p.m., Monday, May 25
Where: On the lake at VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave. S., White Bear Lake
Details: Ceremony to honor veterans who lost their lives at sea.
48 years in grocery
‘Her name's Leah. She's 23, and as far as I know, she's available.’” Barb set them up, and 40 years later, they are still together. They have three sons. Leah has worked at Northview Dental in Shoreview for 42 years. In addition, this year she will celebrate her 50th anniversary of working at the Minnesota State Fair. “We both have longevity in what we do,” Faiad said.
Faiad has been contemplating retirement for a couple of years, but finally decided it was time, so that he could spend more time with his three grandchildren. He said the physical aspect of the job was catching up with him. His arthritis in his feet and hands has worsened. “My doctor said the only thing I can decide is how I want to use what's left of my joints because there's nothing really that can be done to make it better,” he explained.
This summer, Faiad is looking forward to being a part of “Grandma
camp,” when they watch their grandchildren on Fridays. “When I was working, I didn’t get to partake in that as much,” he said. He said he’s also looking forward to getting to a lot of the things he hasn’t had the time to do while he was working. The only travel plans he has as of now are trips to see his uncle in Tennessee.
“I’m a pretty simple person,” he said.
He said he will forever be grateful to the Knowlan’s/Festival team for providing him with so many opportunities. “I've had the privilege of being associated with wonderful colleagues, vendors and customers, and have made lifelong friends along the way,” he said. “I have so many good memories to cherish. It's been a pleasure to be a part of the team, and I'll be forever grateful.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
North Metro resident Joe Faiad makes his last punch out at the Festival store in Hugo .
Joe pictured with his wife Leah, who he met while working at the Roseville store. They have been together for over 40 years and have three sons together.
NICOLE AMOR:
‘I’m very happy with the person she became, and I couldn’t love her more’
what she was doing, that she was doing it for the greater good,” Joey said. “During this deployment, she decided that she was done. She was ready to come home. This was gonna be it. We were really close to forever. She was ready to be done being pulled away from special moments. It was our son’s senior year…she missed three of the last four birthday parties for our daughter, and that broke her heart. She still knew that she had a duty and a responsibility, and she carried that.”
Where it all started
Nicole’s mother Deb Stafslien said from a very young age, Nicole was described by her brothers, and those around her, as “bossy.” “She was the youngest and had two older brothers. I think that was just her way of getting her way when she was talking to and dealing with two boys,” Deb said. Deb recalled getting multiple calls a week from Nicole’s kindergarten teacher who reported Nicole not following instructions in class. “I thought I’ve got two boys, I did not expect this rambunctious child to be my daughter. I would have expected it out of the boys,” she laughed.
Even though she was bossy, Deb says she also had a tender side. “In preschool when she was 4, they would put her in with the toddlers at the end of the day. She would pick up their toys and give them their bottles and do all of these little mothering things for the kids,” Deb recalled. “So, here's this little, bossy girl, but she was so tender with the little kids.”
Deb says she never expected her daughter to go into the military. Unbeknownst to Deb, Nicole and her friend Kristin Canfield had been talking about joining their junior and senior year of high school. One day, a few weeks after Nicole graduated from White Bear Lake High School in 2005, she said to her mom, “Guess what we did today? We joined the Army!” I said, ‘What! You did what!?,” Deb recalled. “I was so floored. It was the last thing I expected but she was so happy. It was hard for me not to be excited for her. I had so many questions.” Nicole and Kristen joined the Army on the buddy system. They were supposed to go to basic training together, but due to sickness, Nicole had to go off to training without her best friend (who eventually joined later).
Deb described her daughter as a “free spirit.” “She was the person who would be there if you needed her. She was the person who would help you if you needed help. She was the person that would make you laugh if you needed a laugh,” Deb explained. “She was the morale booster. She was the problem solver and I'll fix it and take care of you along the way. That's who she's always been from a very little girl to the woman she became and the mother she is.”
Making people feel seen
Joey described Nicole as the perfect mom. “More than anything, she was so proud to be a mom and so proud of
the kids. She would talk about them to everyone,” Joey said. “The care she gave everyone else…it paled in comparison to what she gave the kids. Being a mom was everything to her. She was fierce, happy and loyal.”
Deb echoed those thoughts and said out of all of Nicole’s accomplishments, she was most proud of the mother she was to her children. “She was the best part of my mothering and she just upped the game times 100. That’s the part that really makes me smile,” she said. “I’m very happy with the person she became, and I couldn’t love her more.”
Nicole had a way of making people feel seen. After she passed away, Joey was approached by a soldier who served alongside Nicole for a while. “She helped her through something no one should have to go through alone. My wife wrote her a 10-line letter and took it to her when she was going through it,” Joey explained. “That’s the woman we lost. She was somebody that mattered to not only myself, my kids and her family, but to a lot of individuals whom she listened to and was there for.”
Joey recalled early on in their relationship when he was going through a really hard time. “All she did was sit next to me and put her arm around me. That was all I needed in the moment,” he said. “From that point on, she just took the time to get to know me and my story. At some point, she fell in love with me, thank God.”
Joey says the family didn’t have these huge, grandiose traditions. Rather, they did small things in the moment, like going to the pumpkin patch and corn maze in the fall, and drinking hot cocoa while putting up the Christmas tree.
“Our traditions were just things we did together. Honestly, I don’t know what that looks like this year, next year or the year after,” he said. “Right now, we are just trying to learn how to take baby steps.”
Honoring Memorial Day
Memorial Day has always been a heavy day for the family because they recognize the lives of family and friends they have lost, but this year hits so much harder. The holiday can get commercialized, but Joey wants people to remember how important it is to think of the service members who never came home.
“There is a lot of Hallmark behind the holidays, and that’s wildly true for Memorial Day,” Joey said. “When you think about Memorial Day, you think about a three-day weekend, barbecues, hanging out on boat, hanging out with friends and having an excuse to drink and be merry. What is forgotten in all of that is someone real (a wife, mother, daughter, sister, brother, husband, dad) laid down their life for people they never met.”
On the Saturday before Memorial Day, the family plans to place flags at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. On Sunday, they will celebrate Adeline’s 10th birthday. The family plans to attend the White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782 Comrades Lost at Sea ceremony. The VFW has ordered a memorial brick in Nicole’s honor to be placed at the Veterans Memorial in Veterans Memorial Park in White Bear Lake.
“We are going to go (to her grave site) and spend some time with my wife and their mom,” Joey explained. “We are going to do what their mom loved to do. We are going to hop on a boat, stroll around the lake and (talk about) some fun memories of Nikki.”
Deb said, “I know that forever now, our Memorial Day will be spent with or around the VFW or honoring the military, in some way, shape or form,” Deb explained. “This is going to be different forever.”
Thankful for community support
The family has a hard time coming up with the words to describe how much the support from the community of White Bear Lake has meant to them.
“We are so thankful to the entire city of White Bear Lake and how they have shown up for her. After the funeral service was just amazing. It was so incredibly moving how the city showed up for us,” Deb recalled.
Deb explained that during the Community Salute along Highway 61, she was sitting in the car with her granddaughter, Elsie, on her lap. “She just kept saying ‘Is that for auntie Nikki? Who are these people cheering for?’” Deb said, “They are here to help us remember your Auntie Nikki. She just kept saying ‘all of them?’ It was just the sweetest, most surreal thing that’s ever happened in my life…I just don't have words to describe how moving it was for us to have the city turn out like that. It just reinforces what a wonderful town White Bear Lake is and remains. I'm so glad I raised the kids there.”
One of the things Nicole had hoped to do after deployment was to build a greenhouse. In fact, it was not uncommon for her to send blueprints and plans to Joey.
After Nicole was killed, a family member suggested starting a GoFundMe campaign. Joey initially thought it was inappropriate. As the family was reminiscing and telling stories about Nicole, an idea popped into his head. “I remembered she wanted to build a greenhouse and (thought) ‘maybe we do this for her,’” he explained. They started the GoFundMe thinking they would be lucky if they raised a few thousand dollars, but it quickly grew to more than $105,000 in donations. Corporate sponsors have also stepped up to help in other ways, such as creating the architectural plans for the greenhouse.
The family has launched a nonprofit called Operation Nikki’s Embrace and is searching for land in White Bear Lake. “Our long-term goal is to build a space with multiple greenhouses where the community can come. We can do things for others, like the people have (done) for us,” Joey said. “I really want to be able to give back to the same people who are so generously trying to help us through (this).”
He added, “When we get this greenhouse done…then she will always be a part of the community, and the community will always be a part of her. The outreach we have had from the community has been incredibly strong and meaningful. I’m very thankful for the White Bear community.”
Bill renames state highway in honor of Master Sgt. Nicole Amor
The Minnesota Legislature has unanimously passed a bill to designate a portion of Ramsey County State-Aid Highway 96 as Master Sergeant Nicole Amor Memorial Highway.
Rep. Brion Curran, co-author of the legislation, released the following statement: “Master Sergeant Nicole Amor was a decorated hero who served our country with bravery and honor for 20 years. We will not forget her or the sacrifice she made in service to our nation. I join our White Bear Lake community in continuing to wrap our arms around her family and children as they heal from this loss. The heart and dedication Master Sergeant Amor poured into her service is admirable and worth celebrating.” Sen. Heather Gustafson added, “Master Sergeant Nicole Amor was not only a decorated service member, but she was a mother, a neighbor, a classmate and a friend to so many in our community. I'm proud that we are honoring her in this way. My heart goes out to her family, loved ones, and everyone that knew her."
For more information about Operation Nikki’s Embrace, visit www.gardenasone.org. The GoFundMe can be found at https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-sgt-first-class-nicole-amor.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
OLIVIA ANDERSON | CONTRIBUTED White Bear Lake Mayor Mary Nicklawske, Sen. Heather Gustafson, White Bear Lake VFW Cmdr. Gary Carlberg, the Amor family, MSG Josh Duggan and incoming White Bear Lake American Legion Cmdr. Paul "Homer" Fick at the Capitol.
SPORTS
Mustang softball wins thriller in SEC finale
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Mounds View-Irondale (MVI) softball capped the conference season with an exciting win Wednesday at Rice Lake Park. The Mustangs (12-11) scored four runs after two were out in the seventh, capped by Kate Tretter’s game-winning hit, to beat White Bear Lake and its ace right-hander Lilly Martin 6-5.
The Bears (10-9) took an early 5-0 lead against starter Annalise Foley. Then Mustangs reliever Nora Kelly threw 4 1/3 shutout innings, helped by some excellent defense, including throw-outs by catcher Gillian Hansen and center fielder Maria Walsh, and a double play pivoted by Jaycie Helmer. Adahlia Eames singled home
two runs for MVI in the fourth inning. The score remained 5-2 heading into the bottom t of the seventh. Martin walked two batters but was one strike from a 5-2 win. That’s when Hansen bounced a single up the middle, knocking in two runs.
Walsh beat out an infield hit on high bouncer, putting runners at first and third. Tretter, a right-handed batter, smashed a double into the right-field corner, scoring both runs, setting off a delirious celebration.
MVI finished 5-11 in the Suburban East Conference for seventh place. They have a three-game win streak, also beating Anoka 2-1 and Coon Rapids 12-3, after a six-game losing streak. They started Section 4 playoffs Monday hosting Roseville Area.
Mustang nine is 16-5, holds 2nd place in the conference
Mounds View baseball has a 16-5 record, including 12-5 in the Suburban East Conference (SEC) with two games left, tied for second place behind Stillwater. The Mustangs, ranked No. 9 in the state, were 5-3 the last two weeks. Following is a rundown. Lost to Park 16-11 with six pitchers giving up 15 hits and six walks. Beat Cretin-Derham Hall 7-4 with a three-run homer by Jack Glancey and a solo by Cooper Caligiuri. Pitching were Sawyer Shewmake (five innings,
four runs) and Calvin Anderson (two scoreless). Lost to Irondale 2-1 with Samuel Gorton holding them to one hit, striking out nine. Kasey McCallum took the loss. Beat Osseo 14-0 with 11 hits and eight walks. Vincent Bohle got the win and Carter Byers was 2-for-2 with three RBI’s. Beat Centennial 7-1 with Andrew Gette throwing five innings (no runs, nine strikeouts) and Kaleb Henke belting a bases-loaded homer. Beat Forest Lake 4-3 as RJ Madison doubled
home the game-winner in the seventh, Glancey hit a solo homer and Jason Cook got the win in relief. Lost to East Ridge 5-3 with Shewmake taking the loss. Liam Berlien was 3-for-4 with two doubles. Beat Roseville Area 7-2 with McCallum and Cook combining for a five-hitter while Berlien socked a solo homer and Gette and Josh Serr knocking in two runs each.
Bruce Strand
Mustang boys 3rd, girls 7th in state true-team
The Mounds View boys track and field team placed third and the girls team placed seventh among 12 teams in the state Class 3A true-team track meet on Friday at Eden Prairie. Allison Richter, Mustang junior, won three events, the 200 dash in 24.43, the 100 hurdles (14.24) and the 300 hurdles (42.86). She tied for third in high jump (5-2).
Godson Rufus-Okomhanru, Mustang senior, won the 200 dash (21.25) and took fourth in the 400 (49.53) and sixth in the 100 (10.82).
The top five boys teams were Blaine with 1279, Rosemount 1065, Mounds View 1002.5, Wayzata 998.5 and Stillwater 925.5.
The Mustang boys’ next-high scorer was Ben Mugisa, fourth, 110 high hurdles (14.75); sixth, long jump (21-5); and seventh in the triple jump (42-6).
Other high placements were by Beck-
ett Koons, third, 400 (49.51); Weston Kuchar, fourth, high jump (6-2); Ryan Wirrer, fifth, pole vault (13-6); and Tate McDonald, sixth, 800 (1:57.03).
In relays, the 4x800 placed fourth (8:05.52) with Jackson Ashbach, Emery Klein, Olen Hammerbeck and Joey McVean; and the 4x200 was fifth (1:29.73) with Kaeden Saunders, Kuchar, Charlie Bickford and Koons.
Second-high scorer for the Mustang girls was Alysse Hollister, second in the discus (119-6) and sixth in shot put (37-1/2). Lucia Blaseck placed second in pole vault pole vault (11-0). Placing eighth were Linnea Ousdigian eighth in the 3200 (11:13) and Nora Tilstra in discus (111-6).
The top five girls teams were Lakeville South, Wayzata, Blaine, Minnetonka and Moorhead.
Bruce Strand
Mustangs volleyballers are conference champions
Mounds View has captured the Suburban East Conference boys volleyball championship with a 9-0 record, including a 3-0 win over the second place team, East Ridge. Coached by Kressen Anderson, they are 16-6 overall.
In the last two weeks, the Mustangs lost a non-conference match to Andover 3-1, beat White Bear Lake 3-0, beat Roseville 3-1 and beat Centennial 3-0.
Mustang starters are senior setter Antonio Dragich (435 assists), senior
• 3:45 p.m. Thursday, May 21 — at White Bear Lake Area High School
BASEBALL
4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 21 — at Blaine
BOYS LACROSSE
• 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 21 — vs. Chisago Lakes
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Allison Richter
Mounds View Track and Field May 19, 2026
Allison Richter has emerged as one of the state’s premier trackand-field athletes. The Mounds View junior won three events — both hurdles races and the 200 dash— at the state true-team meet Friday, also tying for third in high jump. “Phenomenal meet. Definitely the MVP of the meet if they were to give one out,” observed Coach Aaron Redman. On the athletic.net track honor roll, Richter is first in the 300 hurdles (42.44 seconds), second in 100 hurdles (14.24) and third in the 200 dash (24.43). Richter was state champ in the 300 and took third in the 100 last season. She switched from triple jump to the 200 this year.
Kate Tretter (middle, holding helmet) and teammates whooped it up after her two-run double capped a comeback win against White Bear Lake.
Scrap meta l,appliance p/u 651*/329*0815
NOW HIRING Security Guard Weekends Only. $17 per hour. Hours may vary. Call 651-272-3783 or Email resume to: Bill@Whitebear countryinn.com
House Cleaning, Dog Walkin Lawn mowing 651*-765*6313
White Bear Country Inn is hiring Se curity Guard for Weekends Only $17/Hr Hour s may vary Call 65 1*/271*5985 or send resume to bill@countryinn.com
NOW HIRING CONTRIBUTING WRITER Love lake life? We’re seeking a reliable contributing writer to create engaging, community-focused content for a local lake publication. Topics include recreation, local events and personalities, nature and stories from around the lake. Ideal candidates have strong writing skills and an interest in the lake community. Please send resume and three writing clips to whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Hugo Feed Mill is looking for a 30+ hours dock/warehouse manager
• Strong customer service skills
• Detailed oriented/handles multitasking well
• Making and bagging feed
• Load Customer products
• Taking inventory
PLACING APPLIANCES and home systems like h eating and cooling ca n be costly A home warranty plan can help. Start saving and get 30% off any plan today Work manship Guarantee included. Terms apply. Call Cinch Home Services 855/887*4521
-
• Self-starter who can work independently and with others
• Stocking Shelfs • Able to lift up to 100 lbs. • Wage DOQ
• Forklift certification preferred
Stop by our shop to apply. 5582 - 146th St. N, Hugo
SAFE STEP NORTH Amer icas #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and se rvice. Now featuring our FR EE shower pa ckage and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call to
under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75
PUBLIC NOTICES
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME
Notice of Early Filing
2026 State General Election
Ramsey County, Minnesota
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies: 1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Nonprofit Leadership & Governance Partners 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 3213 Ridgewood Road, Arden Hills, MN 55112 3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business. Eric P. Ewald 3213 Ridgewood Road, Arden Hills, MN 55112
I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.
Dated: April 24, 2026
Signed: Eric Ewald Published two times in the Shoreview Press on May 5 and 19, 2026. MOUNDS VIEW SCHOOL DISTRICT #621 ADVERTISEMENT FOR RFP MOUNDS VIEW HIGH SCHOOL AND EDGEWOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL 2026 SOLAR FOR SCHOOLS PROJECTS Bids are due Tuesday, June 9 @ 2:00 pm CDT. For more
Notice is hereby given that a filing period will be given for candidates seeking election to State, Municipal, and Judicial office in the 2026 State General Election occurring on Tuesday, November 3rd 2026. The filing period will begin on Tuesday, May 19th at 8:00 a.m. and will conclude on Tuesday, June 2nd at 5:00 p.m. Candidates may withdraw their name from the ballot up until Thursday, June 4th at 5:00. After this deadline, the list of candidates for each race is finalized. Filing fees associated with each office are non-refundable, even if a candidate decides to withdraw.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA 2026 STATE GENERAL ELECTION NOTICE OF EARLY FILING
Please note: the early filing period will only be for Judicial offices as well as State and Municipal offices with potential primaries. Candidates seeking election to municipal offices without primary elections and school board offices will submit their Affidavits of Candidacy during the late filing period in July (Tuesday, July 14th through Tuesday, July 28th)
Notice is hereby given that a filing period will be given for candidates seeking election to State, Municipal, and Judicial office in the 2026 State General Election occurring on Tuesday, November 3rd 2026. The filing period will begin on Tuesday, May 19th at 8:00 a.m. and will conclude on Tuesday, June 2nd at 5:00 p.m. Candidates may withdraw their name from the ballot up until Thursday, June 4th at 5:00. After this deadline, the list of candidates for each race is finalized. Filing fees associated with each office are non-refundable, even if a candidate decides to withdraw Please note: the early filing period will only be for Judicial offices as well as State and Municipal offices with potential primaries. Candidates seeking election to municipal offices without primary elections and school board offices will submit their Affidavits of Candidacy during the late filing period in July (Tuesday, July 14th through Tuesday, July 28th). The following is a list of offices open for filing during the early filing period along with their corresponding filing fee and locations where candidates may submit their Affidavits:
The following is a list of offices open for filing during the early filing period along with their corresponding filing fee and locations where candidates may submit their Affidavits:
United States Senator $400
United States House of Representatives Districts: 4 & 5
Minnesota Governor & Lieutenant Governor
Minnesota Attorney General
$300
$300
$300
$300
Minnesota State Auditor
$300
Minnesota Secretary of State
Minnesota State Senator Districts: 36, 39, 40, 44, 47, 64, 65, 66, & 67 $100
Secretary of State 20 W 12th St, Suite 120 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Minnesota Secretary of State 20 W 12th St, Suite 120 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Minnesota Secretary of State
20 W 12th St, Suite 120 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd. Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Minnesota Secretary of State 20 W 12th St, Suite 120
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Minnesota Secretary of State
20 W 12th St, Suite 120 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Minnesota Secretary of State
20 W 12th St, Suite 120
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Minnesota Secretary of State
20 W 12th St, Suite 120
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd.
Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Minnesota Secretary of State
20 W 12th St, Suite 120 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155
Ramsey County Elections
90 W Plato Blvd. Saint Paul, Minnesota 55107
Minnesota Secretary of State
W 12th St, Suite 120 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55155 Ramsey County Elections
W Plato Blvd.
Paul, Minnesota 55107
candidates must submit a nominating petition in order to be placed on the ballot. This petition must be filed together with the candidate’s Affidavit. Signatures must be gathered during the filing period and signees of the petition must be eligible to vote for the candidate circulating the petition.
Candidates may also opt to submit a petition in place of filing fee. This petition must be filed together with the candidate’s Affidavit. Candidates can begin gathering signatures for this kind of petition before the start of the filing period, but signees must be eligible to vote for the candidate circulating the petition.
The number of signatures required for a valid petition will vary depending on the office sought. Visit the Secretary of State’s website for the exact number of valid signatures needed for a given office, printable versions of petition pages, and more information on circulating petitions/valid petition format.
How to File
Affidavits of Candidacy and Affidavits of Withdrawal must be filed in-person at a designated filing location or mailed to a filing officer after being properly notarized. Please note, there are four different versions of the Minnesota Affidavit of Candidacy (Federal, State/Judicial. City/Town/School District/Special District, and County/Special District), candidates must submit the correct version in order to be placed on the ballot. Candidates must also present valid proof of residence when filing. Candidates for Ramsey County Sheriff must present their peace officer license at the time of filing. Candidates for Judicial seats and Ramsey County Attorney must present their license to practice law at the time of filing. Nominating petitions and petitions in place of filing fees must be submitted in-person at Ramsey County Elections. If a candidate must be out of Minnesota during the filing period, they should contact Ramsey Couty elections for information on how to file.
Affidavits of Candidacy will be available at all filing locations. Printable versions of every type of Affidavit are also available on the Secretary of State’s website. Printable versions of the Affidavit of Withdrawal will also be available at filing locations as well as the Secretary of State’s website.
For more information on the filing process, contact Ramsey County Elections at: 651-266-2171 elections@RamseyCountyMN.gov Published two times in the Shoreview Press on May 5 and 19, 2026.
andArts Culture
EMERGING ARTIST: LYDIA JERSAK
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Lake Area High School Senior Lydia Jersak truly embodies the “emerging” part of Emerging Artist. Her freshman year, she was a backup stagehand. This year, Jersak has had substantial supporting roles in three of White Bear’s shows. What changed? According to Jersak, she started having more fun.
“I was really nervous to be on stage, because I feel people are like, ‘Oh, you either have it or you don’t.' And I was like, ‘Well, what if I don't have it?’ … I could help out with the show, but I could never be the one on stage,” recalled Jersak.
With each passing play, though, Jersak took on more backstage responsibility, eventually becoming the puppeteer for Audrey II in “Little Shop of Horrors.” Jersak remembered, “The first time we did a full run through, and I took off that plant
head, everyone in the house cheered for me, and I was like, ‘Wow, this is really cool.’”
Last winter, Jersak decided to try out for the role of Tilly in White Bear’s competitive One-Act play, “She Kills Monsters.” “I stepped into it, and my interpretation of Tilly was completely different from the Broadway version, but I got a lot of compliments on that because it was unique.” She also realized how freeing acting could be. “In real life, I overthink things a lot—‘Am I making the right amount of eye contact?’ ‘How much do I say to this person to where they like me, but I'm not annoying to them?’ But acting? I just go for it because I'm playing a character.”
Jersak now looks back at her freshman and sophomore years with a bit of frustration. “They weren't necessarily a waste, but I wish I could get them back because
junior year and senior year have been so amazing for me,” she said. Jersak’s impressive theater resume this year includes three distinct performances: The stepmother Madame in “Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella,” guidance counselor Siobhan in “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime,” and eldest sister Jane Bennett in “Pride and Prejudice.” Jersak believes her variety of roles comes from her attitude toward acting. “I see myself as Play-Doh, and I can mold myself into whatever the next challenge is.”
Going forward, Jersak will appear in Children’s Performing Arts’ summer musical “Newsies,” and will attend Century College’s theater program in the fall. Now that she has confidence in her acting abilities, Jersak plans to strengthen her singing and dancing abilities. “I’m not currently a triple threat, but I want to get to that point,” she stated. While that goal might seem lofty for someone who has not even been acting for two years, Jersak remarked, “Even if my success doesn't happen right away, I did it for ‘She Kills Monsters,’ I did it
‘WICKED,’ ‘FROZEN’ ACTOR EMILY KRISTIN MORRIS TO PERFORM AT HANIFL
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Broadway actress Emily Kristen Morris—who played Elphaba in the “Wicked” national tour, Princess Elsa in “Frozen” at the Paramount Theatre in Chicago, and has over 1.5 million followers on TikTok—will play Sarah Brown this summer in “Guys and Dolls” at The Chanhassen. On June 1 and June 22, however, Morris will perform at the Hanifl Performing Arts Center.
At 4 p.m. Monday, June 1, Morris will conduct a vocal master class on the Hanifl stage. “The master class for anyone interested in learning about Broadway, learning about music, or learning about singing,” explained Production and Operations Manager Laura Long. “She’s a positive, uplifting person. I know people are going to enjoy listening to her.”
At 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 22, Morris will perform CPA’s Summer Benefit Concert, delivering a dynamic night of Broadway favorites, beloved classics, and heartfelt moments. Accompanying her is Wesley Frye, a Twin Cities musician and music director who has previously collaborated with Lakeshore Players. VIP tickets for this event include dinner at 5 p.m. and a meet-and-greet with Morris at 5:30 p.m.
Children’s Performing Arts’ Executive Director Sharon Hanifl-Lee commented, “We want to give people in our community
things they may not be able to otherwise experience, like seeing Emily Kristen Morris when she’s in a Broadway show. So we’re bringing Broadway here.”
Education and Programming Manager Braylon Lane added, “Having Emily Christian Morris is a representation of our dedication and commitment to exposing the youth to opportunities in terms of performing on stage, growing as performers, and growing their life skills.”
Lane also feels that hosting Morris shows young people inter ested in theater that their goals are not out of reach. “Somebody that you see online that you are a fan of is not unattainable. You can meet those people. They are normal people just like you. You can breathe the same air,” Lane remarked while laughing. “It reinforces kids’ aspirations of being professional performers. This is possible; they can do it.”
For tickets to Emily Kristen Morris’s master class or concert, visit childrensperformingartsmn.ludus.com.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY HOSTS ‘REVOLUTIONARY’ TRAVELING EXHIBIT
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
This summer, the United States of America will celebrate 250 years. Our nation’s founding, however, was not a certainty to the people who lived in the colonies in the 1770s. To help illustrate the reality people of that time faced, the Harriet G. Walker chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) created the American Revolution Experience exhibit. The White Bear Lake Area Historical Society will host this exhibit from May 29June 6, with a members-only sneak peek on May 28.
“It’s an interactive exhibit which places visitors back into
the Revolutionary Generation,” explained Community Engagement Director Allison Lincoln. “They were faced with a difficult choice: pledge loyalty to the Patriot cause and a new nation or remain loyal to the King and the British Empire.”
In conjunction with the exhibit, the DAR will also host a genealogy seminar from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at the White Bear Lake Armory. During the program, the DAR will help attendees discover if their ancestors fought in the Revolutionary War.
“By collaborating with the DAR and the League of Women Voters we are able to bring these exhibits and their supporting programming to
our community,” said White Bear Lake Area Historical Society Executive Director Sara Hanson, “We are thrilled to have the space at the armory and the ability to host these traveling exhibits to highlight different elements of the 250th anniversary theme.” While Minnesota and White Bear Lake did not become part of the United States until the second half of the 1800s, Hanson felt that, this year, the historical society could increase their scope. “We are always excited about sharing the stories of our past,” said Hanson, “but the 250th anniversary of the United States gives us a great opportunity to pull in wider stories that depict our 250+ year history.” Lincoln added that, this
summer and fall, the historical society has a number of exhibits planned that highlight different eras of our past, particularly The Wall that Heals—a three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C., coming to Polar Lakes Park from Aug. 6-9.
“WBLAHS has got something for everyone this spring/ summer to celebrate this monumental anniversary,” Lincoln concluded, “and we’re so excited to be at the heart of it all, leading the charge for our community to get involved in our country’s history.”
For more information about White Bear Lake Area Historical Society’s events, visit whitebearhistory.org/events.
for ‘Cinderella.’ Why can't I do it again?” Jersak next appears as Jane Bennett in White Bear Lake Area High School’s production of “Pride and Prejudice,” which runs May 22-24, 5040 Division Ave. Door A. For tickets, visit sites. google.com/isd624.org/musical-theatre/ tickets.
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR THEATER SUMMER CAMPS
All camps take place at Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake. To register, visit childrensperformingartsmn.org/classes-workshops.
Details: Join us for a week of fun with our favorite little friend, George. Students will create their own play based on the beloved children’s book series. Friends and family are invited for a special showcase at the end of the week.
ACTING FOR THE CAMERA Grades: 7-12
Dates: 12-3 p.m. June 8-12
Details: Professional actor and choreographer Eden Fahy will teach students how to create professional self-tapes, scenework and monologues for the camera. Take your auditioning to the next level and stay current with online submissions. Students will leave with a self-tape to use at their next audition.
SEIZE THE DAY: NEWSIES MUSICAL THEATRE CAMP Grades: 6-9
Dates: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. June 15-19
Details: This one-week musical theatre intensive is inspired by the musical journey of “Newsies: The Broadway Musical.” Learn the hit songs and dance combos from the iconic show.
MADAGASCAR: I LIKE TO MOVE IT!
Grades: 3-5
Dates: 9 a.m-12 p.m, June 22-26
Details: Join us for a week of fun with our favorite animal friends from the hit movie ‘Madagascar.’ Students will devise a show with music and characters from the movie they love, learning how to create musical theatre on a basic level..
YES AND! IMPROV
Grades: 8-12
Dates: 10 a.m-1 p.m. June 29-July 3
Details: Learn about the art of “yes and,” and experience the beauty of on-your-feet storytelling. Throughout the week, students will learn the basic tenets of improv, practice different exercises to strengthen and cultivate their improv skills, and play long-andshort-form improv games. At the end of the week, the students will host their very own improv show for friends and family.
PHOTOS
White Bear Lake resident Tammy Waldoch is opening up about her personal journey in her debut book, “The Plight of the Pudgy,” in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. Waldoch explores themes of body image, mental health and self-worth, drawing from her own experiences with bipolar disorder and decades of struggle with toxic body shame. Now in remission she is using her voice to encourage others and hopes her story will help readers feel understood, less alone and inspired to hold onto hope.
Q. Tell us about yourself.
A. I am a longtime resident of White Bear Lake, having lived here most of my life. I so enjoy what this community has to offer for the arts. I have especially benefited from belonging to a small group called The Writer's Well at the White Bear Center for the Arts. It was there that the inspiration to become a published author was born.
Q. What inspired you to write ‘The Plight of the Pudgy’?
A. I had written some humorous, satirical and witty parodies that I have sung on my YouTube channel for women who have struggled with weight loss issues, poor self-image and toxic body shame. I chose to use them as a backdrop for my stories, highlighting my own struggles of being a slave to the scale for nearly 60 years. I hoped to write a book as an open invitation where others could connect authenti-
cally with someone who wasn’t afraid to be transparent. I wanted my readers to feel deeply understood in their own struggles after reading it. This is my heartfelt rendition of transformation as I discovered I did not need to live my life scrambling for a tiny morsel of value from a number on a scale or otherwise.
Q. You shared that you are now a decade into remission from bipolar disorder. What does that milestone mean to you?
A. Once upon a time, because of my mental illness, I felt discarded by society with no place to fit in. The road was long with multiple setbacks. I found myself in and out of the psych ward and I became hopeless, believing my life would never be useful to God. I thought that all my long-lost dreams would not come true. Today I am proud to say that I have been given the right combination of drugs to restore my chemical imbalance. As a result of this victorious milestone, I am able to see that God isn't finished with my story yet. Today I have a sound mind, which enabled me to become an author and write this book. My illness did not have the last word.
Q. What were some of the biggest misconceptions about mental health you had to unlearn personally?
A. I had to learn it is okay to disclose my personal journey with bipolar disorder. That meant relearning to embrace my weaknesses, knowing that God could use them as my greatest strength. It meant discovering that I could say goodbye to the secrecy and shame and let go of the misconception that I was less than others because of it.
•
•
Q. Humor plays a part in your storytelling. Why is it important to talk about heavy topics with levity?
A. Humor breaks down defenses and provides a backdrop to discuss feelings that would ordinarily go unsaid because it is so uncomfortable to bring those dark feelings up. My material was written with levity to lighten the struggles and insecurities of bodies of all shapes and sizes. I created multiple moments of comic relief to provide a momentary release from insane attempts to find an unrealistic body ideal. I think the impact of laughter upon a human heart is sometimes the only balm necessary to enable you to acknowledge your own pain while facing with power new challenges that lie ahead of you.
Q. Your book also explores toxic body shame. How did that intersect with your own mental health journey?
A. My book is not only a book about overcoming toxic body shame, but also a memoir of my private battle with mental health and the journey I was on to overcome the stigma associated with mental illness. I hoped to share my private path of redemption in the hopes that someone else who is struggling might feel less alone. Many years prior to writing the book, I had a dream that I believed was from God about how He would use my life. I tell the tale of the years I spent waiting for God to fulfill that vision and how He helped me overcome the temporary setbacks due to bipolar disorder. My story is a tale of triumph, despite my history of depression and mania.
Q. If your book sparks one takeaway for readers, what do you hope it is?
A. For anyone who is searching for a new identity (due to their mental health or having been a prisoner of the scale), I hope they realize how perfectly they are loved by God just the way they are.
For those suffering from mental illness, I hope my book leaves them with this sentiment:
Too often those suffering from mental health disorders are marginalized and stigmatized, making them outcasts in society. Especially when the battle goes on for months or even years. Some may give up hope of healing ever occurring after repeat trial and errors with medications that seem to be ineffective. At which point, some will want to throw in the towel and give up hope. Your mental illness does not define you and does not have the last word.
For those on a perpetual diet or suffering from poor body image or toxic body shame — I hope my book enables you to come out from underneath the lies of your negative self-critic and the scrutiny of the mirror. May you know the liberation that comes from being comfortable in your own skin. You are more than what you weigh, and I pray you will find healing from cultural expectations and societal norms that tell you that you must be thin to be beautiful. May you embrace God’s love for you just the way you are.
