About the cover
The Washington County Historic Courthouse continues to draw interest from local history enthusiasts and casual museumgoers. While the site has undergone significant renovations in recent years, more updates are planned for its exhibits. The changes aim to highlight new historical records and artifacts, offering fresh insights for those researching Washington County’s past. In addition to exhibit updates, landscape improvements and building repairs are scheduled for the exterior and interior of the courthouse. These efforts build on past restorations and are designed to enhance one of the county’s most treasured historical landmarks. See story on page 3.
CONTRIBUTORS
Reading
Historic Courthouse to receive new upgrades and features
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Whether one goes into the Washington County Historic Courthouse for a guided tour or casual viewing, one thing is sure: its historical significance is still cherished by history buffs and museum lovers alike. To preserve that significance, the courthouse will undergo new renovations and add unique features guaranteed to include even more history behind its walls.
One area is the recently-opened Sheriff’s Residence exhibit, featuring artifacts and information on the history of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. The space currently stands as a temporary exhibit and will be expanded into a full, permanent one. New display cases will include
“The historic courthouse is a resource for the community, and it deserves to be a resource for the community.”
Jack Nilsen Parks Coordinator
original hand-written records of the courthouse jail inmates, which are currently being obtained through the Minnesota Historical Society. Others will have nomination forms from different sheriffs who ran for the position across past decades. “When people look at those types of things, it connects us to the fact that what we consider nonpartisan elections were a lot different back then,” said Washington County Parks Coordinator Jack Nilsen, “and how a simple office is kind of taken for granted today.” Through a grant with the Minnesota Historical Society, courthouse staff will conduct a study to determine how to upgrade the residence’s original lighting. “The hope is to add track lighting in the Sheriff’s Residence with period lighting,” said Nilsen. “It’s to make it more so we can show off the artifacts and some of the panels on the walls.”
The courthouse’s jail will also see extensive changes. Building staff hope to secure a grant in January 2026 to replace the area’s ADA-accessible ramp (installed in 1983) and redo its walls, the
latter of which has been significantly affected by moisture damage. “We want to preserve the space because it offers a lot of insight into how inmates viewed society and how they thought society viewed them,” said Nilsen. Through the grant, acrylic barriers will be installed to prevent visitors from touching items and defacing the area’s original graffiti. Written between 1965 and 1975, the graffiti has the names of different county residents, which Nilsen said are intended to be preserved for the sake of history. In order for the cells to remain ADAaccessible, barriers will not be installed to prevent visitors from walking in.
The courthouse’s main hallway contains a photo mural of different Washington County residents over the past several decades. According to Nilsen, he hopes for more residents to contribute to its size. “The hope is to have an entire wall filled with photos from the community,” said Nilsen. “These are the people that made Washington County who it is today and we want to recognize that everybody’s important.”
A new Korean War-themed exhibit will arrive in December, featuring personal belongings and letters from 11 county residents who died in battle. The exhibit will replace the courthouse’s current Preservation Exhibit, which includes different building pieces, like tiles and lampheads from past preservation projects. “The story is going to be from their perspective,” said Nilsen, adding that the belongings and letters will honor the residents and their service.
More work will be done outside the building, such as the south side staircase and the columns built along both sides. “The columns are starting to sink,” Nilsen observed. “It’s possible that these have never been touched since the building’s construction. We also want to make sure they’re safe for the public.”
The courthouse’s east side will be relandscaped, featuring a combination of Victoria-era-style and native plantings. Two different prairies will be cultivated in the same area, one featuring two Pagoda dogwood trees and another with hazelnut shrubs. There will also be a newly redesigned rose garden with European-style rose bushes. A new path, beginning from the front of the courthouse through the south side and
ending at the east, is also to be built.
At the end of the day, these new features, renovations and additions are, according to Nilsen, to preserve the courthouse for the community.
“The historic courthouse is a resource for the community and it deserves to be a resource for the community,” said Nilsen. “It’s really why we are putting
Ann-Margaret and Don Shelby make special appearance for veterans
Renowned actress Ann-Margret and retired journalist Don Shelby appeared at the Forest Lake Vietnam Veterans Day Program at the city’s American Legion. In addition to her acting career, Ann-Margret is known for performing for U.S. troops in Vietnam during the war. Shelby, an experienced investigative journalist, has won two Peabody and three Emmy awards for his work.
New representative Groundwater Advisory Committee appointed
Jeffrey Thron of Stillwater will serve a full term as a well drilling representative on the Groundwater Advisory Committee. Thron previously served a partial term from Feb. 6 to Dec. 31, 2024, but did not seek reappointment at the time. His current term will expire in December 2027.
The courthouse’s Sheriff’s Residence will be expanded
historical records.
The courthouse’s current Preservation Exhibit. This will be replaced by a new exhibit, based on the Korean War, in December.
Don Shelby and Ann-Margret
OUT & ABOUT
LIFE AT ITS BEST: A LIFESTYLE EXPO
When: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday, May 17
Where: Sandhill Shores, 105 Bridgewater Way, Stillwater
Details: Explore a variety of local businesses and unique shops. Door prizes will also be featured, including Minnesota Twins tickets and others. Contact: events@sandhillshores.org
ONGOING EVENTS
BINGO AT THE CURRENT
When: 2 - 4 p.m., every Sunday
Where: Afton House Inn, 3291 St. Croix Trail S.
Details: Play Bingo and win cash prizes. Contact: 651-436-8883 or info@ aftonhouseinn.com
TREAT YOURSELF TUESDAYS
When: 5 - 8 p.m., second Tuesday of every month
Where: Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe, 5946 N. Good Ave., Oak Park Heights
Details: Ladies’ night at Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe. Each month will feature a different cigar and drink pairing. There will be alcoholic and nonalcoholic options, all designed to bring out notes in the cigar.
Contact: 651-342-0971
LAKE ELMO ROTARY CLUB MEETING
When: 7 - 8 a.m., 1st, 2nd, 3rd Wednesday Where: Lake Elmo Inn, 3442 Lake Elmo Ave. N.
Details: Join for the Lake Elmo Rotary Club’s meeting every Wednesday. RSVP your attendance to Liz Niehaus, secretary (lmjohnson3@hotmail.com) the Monday prior to the meeting. Contact: lmjohnson3@hotmail.com
DATE NIGHT
When: 4 - 9 p.m., every Wednesday
Where: Swirl Wine Club inside the Afton House Inn, 3291 St. Croix Trail S.
Details: Wednesdays are Date Night here at Swirl. Two salads, one flatbread, two truffles and a bottle of wine. Contact: 651-436-8883 or info@ aftonhouseinn.com
BETTER BREATHERS CLUB
When: 1 - 3 p.m., 4th Wednesday of every month Where: Lakeview Hospital, 927
Churchill St. W., Stillwater
Details: Better Breathers Club offers the opportunity to learn ways to better cope with chronic lung disease while getting the support of others who share in your struggles. Family members, friends and support persons are welcome. Register at www. healthpartners.com/about/classesevents/. Contact: 651-430-4786 or jenny.j.kratochvil@lakeview.org
FREE WINE TASTINGS
When: 6 - 8 p.m., every Friday Where: Swirl Wine Club inside the Afton House Inn, 3291 St. Croix Trail S. Details: Free wine tasting. Contact: 651-436-8883 or info@ aftonhouseinn.com
WILD RIVER RUNNING
When: 6 p.m. every Tuesday and 6:30 a.m. every Friday Where: 224 Chestnut St. E., Stillwater Details: Group runs from Wild River Running. All paces and abilities welcome with distances typically ranging three to six miles. Tuesday evening will occasionally rotate locations. Contact: 651-342-2741 or info@ wildriverrunning.com
MOVIES AT MATT’S
When: 6:30 p.m. Monday - Wednesday Where: 413 Nelson St. E., Stillwater Details: Nostalgia movies shown at the lounge at Matt’s Basement. Movies announced on social media the week prior. All tickets come with free popcorn with variety of seating options available. Contact: www.instagram.com/ mattsbasement/
STROLLING ACCORDION
When: 8 p.m. every Friday - Sunday Where: Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, 8390 Lofton Ave., Stillwater Details: Enjoy strolling accordion performances through the Gasthaus
MINNESOTA POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY BRIEF
State seeks volunteers to protect lakes, streams
As spring arrives in Minnesota, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) needs help monitoring the more than 12,000 lakes and 92,000 miles of streams in the state. The MPCA is currently recruiting volunteers to measure water clarity in lakes and streams and then report back to the agency as a part of the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program.
dining rooms every weekend throughout the year.
Contact: 651-439-7128
TOTALLY CRIMINAL COCKTAIL HOUR
When: 5 - 6 p.m., 1st Wednesday of every month Where: The Lowell Inn, 102 2nd St. N., Stillwater Details: Chat local favorite mystery authors. This month’s featured authors are Tracy Clark of “Echo” and David Ellis of “The Best Lies.” Tickets can be purchased online at www.tinyurl.com/2k4zk8fx. Presented by Valley Bookseller. Contact: events.valleybookseller@ gmail.com
CRIBBAGE TOURNAMENT
When: 6 - 7:30 p.m., every other Wednesday Where: Rustic Roots Winery, 20168 St. Croix Trail N., Scandia Details: Open to players of all levels. Format will be singles, three players per game. Prizes awarded for first and second place. Players must bring their own board and a deck of cards.
Contact: 651-433-3311 or info@ rusticroots.wine
CURRENT EVENTS
CARRIAGE RIDING LESSONS
When: All day, Thursday, May 1
Where: River Valley Riders, 2007 Neal Ave. S., Afton
Details: Learn how to drive a horsedrawn carriage. Trained volunteers will assist participants in offering encouragement and support.
Contact: 651-439-2558 or info@ rivervalleyriders.org
SEASON OPENING DAY
When: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday, May 3
Where: Gammelgården Museum, 20880 Olinda Trail N., Scandia
Details: First day of the 2025 season is open at Gammelgården Museum. Includes exhibits, vendor fair and family-friendly historical activites. Contact: 651-433-5053
CINCO DE MAYO BRUNCH
When: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Saturday, May 4
Where: Lake Elmo Inn, 3442 Lake Elmo Ave. N.
Details: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with a brunch. House-made chilaquiles and tortilla-crusted chicken will be served. Reserve a seat at www.tinyurl. com/32w33nf6. Contact: info@lakeelmoinn.com
MAY MEMBER MIXER: THRIVENT FINANCIAL
When: 4 - 6 p.m., Thursday, May 8
Where: Thrivent Financial, 85 Lake St. N., Forest Lake
Details: Presented by Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce (FLACC). Join fellow members to meet potential business associates and mix with old friends. Register at www.tinyurl.com/2y7zf2km. Contact: 651-464-3200 or chamber@ flacc.org
The University of Minnesota launched the program in 1973 and transferred it to the MPCA in 1978. It has become the second-oldest still active volunteer water monitoring program in the nation, empowering Minnesotans from all corners of the state to support the health of its beloved waters.
Volunteers conduct a simple water clarity test in a body of water twice a month from April to September. The MPCA provides all the equip -
BRIAN WICLUND AND LIZ ASHWORTH CONCERT
When: 7:30 p.m., May 10
Where: St. Croix Festival Theatre, 125 N. Washington St., St. Croix Falls
Details: Acclaimed musicians Brian Wiclund and Liz Ashworth will perform an evening of Americana, folk and bluegrass music. Tickets can be purchased at www.festivaltheatre. org. Contact: 715-483-3387 or festivaltheatreboxoffice@gmail.com
MOTHER’S DAY BUFFET
When: 10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Saturday, May 11
Where: Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter, 8390 Lofton Ave., Stillwater Details: All-you-can-eat Mother’s Day buffet. Featuring dishes such as roast pork with gravy, German potato salad and chicken with Riesling cream sauce.
Contact: 651-439-7128
HISTORY OF WILLIAM O’BRIEN STATE
PARK
When: 4 p.m., Friday, May 16
Where: Hay Lake School, 14020 195th St. N., Marine on St. Croix
Details: Presented by the Washington County Historical Society. Learn about the park’s history, including the O’Brien family and boundary changes. No registration is required. Contact: 651-439-2298 or information@ wchsmn.org
80’S NIGHT
When: 8:30 p.m. - midnight, Friday, May 16
Where: Ziggy’s On Main, 132 Main St. S., Stillwater Details: Join for an evening featuring the biggest hits and tunes from the 1980s. Live music provided by Minneapolis-based cover band Atari. Contact: 651-342-0011
ESCAPE ROOM
When: 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Where: Washington County Historic Courthouse, 101 W. Pine St., Stillwater Details: Escape room at the Historic Courthouse jail. Up to five people allowed per session. Register online at www.washingtoncountymn.gov/3478/ Escape-Room.
Contact: 651-275-7075
ACRYLIC PAINT POURING
When: 6 - 8 p.m., Wednesday, May 28 Where: Hallberg Center for the Arts, 5521 E. Viking Blvd., Wyoming Details: Learn how to pour paint with instructor Keith Stangeland. Tarps, aprons, and other supplies provided. Participants should bring a tray or large lid for their artwork. Register at www.tinyurl.com/ry3dxk59. Contact: 651-272-5122 or 651-964-0189
‘WHEN YOU WISH’ When: 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., Saturday, May 31
Where: Stillwater Area High School, 5701 Stillwater Blvd., Oak Park Heights
Details: Family-friendly Disney tribute concert featuring covers of classic songs. Tickets can be purchased at www.tinyurl.com/34rpd4fb. Contact: 651-351-8040
ment and training; no experience is needed. The MPCA uses the data to help determine whether lakes and streams are meeting water quality standards, which are designed to protect aquatic life and recreational activities. In some cases, the information gathered by volunteers is the only monitoring done on a particular lake or stream.
For more information, visit www.pca.state. mn.us/get-engaged/volunteer-water-monitoring.
Barbershop Bliss: Inside the Croix Chordsmen Chorus
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
In 1951, a group of singers gathered in River Falls, Wisconsin, to become a new chapter in the Barbershop Harmony Society (formerly S.P.E.B.S.Q.S.A., Inc.)
Today, that chapter is known as the Croix Chordsmen Chorus. Its membership has expanded to 65 members from cities such as White Bear Lake, Stillwater, Forest Lake and Chisago City. Others come from Wisconsin, including River Falls, Prescott, Hudson, Somerset and Osceola. What they take pride in as barbershop singers is equally applied to their roles as friends within the chorus and the performing community.
“We like to say, ‘I came to sing, but I stay for the friendships,’” said longtime member Judd Orff. “I don’t know what I’d ever do without barbershop because it’s such a big part of my life.”
Chorus members range in age from their 30s to their 90s. One member, Bill Kruschel, who remains active in the chorus, recently celebrated his 100th birthday. Performed genres range from traditional gospel to pop, classic rock and modern rock songs, including Kansas and Imagine Dragons. The chorus performs at various locations and special events, including a Memorial Day performance in Stillwater and River Falls, Wisconsin, in May, and a performance at the Land O’Lakes Leadership Academy in River Falls in January. Annual Christmas and spring shows are also held, as are church performances every Sunday in June.
Chorus Director Jay Althof says the chorus, while holding practice in the same way as most choir groups, emphasize treating each other like family. “We do the music part, but we’re focused as a giant family,” said Althof. “It’s the human connection. When someone has a challenge, the whole chorus is like, ‘How can we help?’ When someone has a success, the whole chorus is like, ‘Good for you!’ whatever that thing is.”
A major post-practice chorus tradition is for chorus members to go to Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub in Stillwater, converse and sing songs. This, according to Orff, allows members to develop friendships with each other more deeply. “Some of the guys stay there until 11, and we sing some more and talk to each other,” said Orff. “That’s where that camaraderie is so important.”
“We’re providing an environment, a culture, that encourages older men to stay active and engage and enjoy life,” added Althof. “They’ll tell me every week, ‘The bar, gee, this is the best part! I would come for just this if nothing else.’”
Other members, such as Chorus Vice President Walt Ogburn, echo this sentiment. “All of my friends now in the community are really friends from the chorus,” said Ogburn. “It really is my social group. We’re more likely to know about their family, kids, what
ages they are and are they still doing high school things. It’s really just friendships that are centered around the music.”
Two of the chorus’ biggest challenges, according to Althof, are media exposure and attracting a younger demographic. “If we try to recruit someone, and they come to visit us and go, ‘Man, I really love this,’ then they look around and say, ‘How many other guys look like me here?’ It’s not that they don’t enjoy it, but they just don’t find a personal connection so much.”
Althof added that while younger potential members might be held back from joining due to scheduling conflicts, the chorus would still welcome them, regardless. “Typically, they’re in high school, then go
BUSINESS BRIEFS
Hallberg Center for the Arts receives grant to continue mission
Through the Mardag Foundation, the Hallberg Center for the Arts has received a special grant to help fund the center’s mission: providing accessible arts programming to the community and enhancing its core offerings. These offerings include presenting new monthly exhibits, “Songwriters in the Round” music events, senior artistic outreach classes and open mic nights.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Mardag Foundation for their support,” said Center Executive Director Jess Eischens. “This grant will enable us to continue providing these valuable programs to our community, ensuring that the arts remain accessible to everyone.”
The foundation funds organizations and programs that improve the lives of low-income children, youth and families, support access for older adults and enhance community vitality through arts and culture.
St. Croix Valley Foundation awards early childhood development grants
Through the St. Croix Valley Foundation, thirteen organizations will receive grants to support children and families. Recipients include Bridge to Books in Stillwater, Mahtomedi Early Childhood and Kids Are Artists, Too! in Wyoming.
“These grants reflect our region’s shared commitment to families and children,” said Angie Pilgrim, the foundation’s vice president of community impact. “We know that early investment builds a foundation for everything that follows — school readiness, lifelong health, social well-being and economic opportunity. We’re grateful to the Lawsons and all our funding partners for making this possible.”
Food Group to close multiple Fare For All sites
The Food Group will close several of its Fare For All sites by the end of the month. These locations include Anoka, Chaska, Cottage Grove, Golden Valley, Little Falls, Maplewood, Northfield, Onamia, Roseville, St. Louis Park and Stillwater. The organization cited multiple factors, including community participation rates and staff capacity, as the reasons why. It will continue distributing food at 20 Fare For All and 28 Twin Cities Mobile Market Sites throughout the Twin Cities and the greater metro area.
The Minnesota Food HelpLine is a program of The Food Group where anyone in Minnesota can call for assistance with food resources. Those who need help can call or text 1-888711-1151.
Stillwater License Center expands to 5 days a week
to college, get a job and raise a family. Saying, ‘I’m going to come to the chorus every Tuesday night for the rest of my life because I enjoy it,’ is challenging for younger folks. Rather than fight that with our chapter: Open arms! It would be awesome, so just come down and we’d love it.”
The chorus practices at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Stillwater, located at 1616 Olive St. W. For more information on how to join and upcoming events, contact Jon Tanberg at 715-495-2026 or jontanberg@gmail.com or visit the chorus website at www. croixchordsmen.org.
Staff Writer Erik Suchy can be reached at 651-407-1229 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com
The grants focus on supporting children and families during the first three years of life, known as the “first thousand days,” a critical period for physical, emotional and social development.
The funding is provided through the First Thousand Days Field of Interest Fund, established by Bill and Rita Lawson.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) division is offering driver exams at the Stillwater License Center five days a week through June 30. This expansion is part of a lease amendment approved by the Washington County Board of Commissioners. The DVS’s current five-year lease will continue through Nov. 30, 2026. The center will return to its original twoday-a-week schedule beginning July 1.
Chorus members perform the Sea Shanty song at their District Convention event.
One chorus member, Bill Kruschel, remains active in the group after celebrating his 100th birthday.
The Croix Chordsmen Chorus is a 65-member group of the Barbershop Harmony Society that meets weekly in Stillwater. Pictured (from left) are members Duane Schuh, Dale Schueffner, Cliff Turnbull and Loren Paulson.
Retired Washington County detective releases 2nd novel
Larry Simon is a retired detective sergeant of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in Stillwater. Years ago, Simon started working on his first novel and now he is working on his third. Press Publications interviewed Simon to learn more about him and his most recent novel.
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
A. My wife Denise (Michaud) and I lived and raised our children in White Bear Lake and Stillwater. Upon our retirement, we purchased a motor home and traveled. City, state and national parks became our short-term settlement. One of our favorites is Voyageurs National Park in northern Minnesota.
Q. Tell us a little bit about your nearly three-decade career in law enforcement.
A. I retired from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in Stillwater after 27 years. As a deputy sheriff, I was assigned most duties found in a typical sheriff’s office; dispatch, bailiff, correctional officer, civil process, patrol officer, shift commander, detective-sergeant, water-recovery and, finally, the office of conduct and standards. The most rewarding assignment was my 17 years investigating crimes against children.
Q. What inspired you to transition from a career in law enforcement to writing novels?
A. Although I could write a police procedures manual for child abuse investigation, I sought after the mystery and suspense genre, that fictionalizes a true crime series. I began years ago with my first book and after five years and five chapters, put the manuscript in
storage. Tearing my Achilles tendon playing pickleball, and with my forced inactivity, I pulled out the dusty cardboard box from storage. Here I am three years later working on my third novel. Calling out to aspiring authors; never give up your dreams!
Q. How does your experience as a detective shape the way you approach storytelling?
A. My passion for storytelling began with the detailed reports and investigations that I conducted throughout my career. I have channeled that expertise into crafting novels that immerse readers in my world of crime and justice.
Q. Tell us about your first novel, “Bridge over Troubled Water.”
A. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is my first novel of the Detective Jack Janssen series. Detective Janssen painfully struggles with the memory of a child victim, when he is called into action for a friend who needs his help, Judge Vivian Lord. The novel takes place in the Saint Croix Valley around Stillwater and in Washington County.
Q. What inspired you to write your second novel, “Sound of Silence?”
A. “Sound of Silence,” a novel that continues with the Janssen series, brings Detective Janssen back into action from retirement. Now commanding the Special Victims Unit, Detective Janssen takes on a case deemed unchargeable in a compelling novel that will pull readers into the storyline of Detective Janssen and his seasoned partner, Child Protection Worker Rita Bullock. The gripping investigation has complexities that
develop into an unimaginable and unpredictable conclusion.
Q. How do you develop your characters? Are any of them inspired by real-life people, or are they purely fictional?
A. The protagonist, Jack Janssen, is inspired by my career. Judge Vivian Lord is inspired by retired Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Esther Tomljanovich, who previously served as a trial judge in the Tenth Judicial District in Stillwater. I had often testified in her courtroom for crimes against children and recently enjoyed having coffee with her and her husband. Judge Tomljanovich is remarkably gifted in jurisprudence. The criminal antagonist or, metaphorically, the villain, is drawn from the bulk of caseloads from my 17 years as detective sergeant.
Q. What do you hope readers take away from your novels?
A. I would like to engage readers in my world of crime and suspense with a touch of romance. The reader will be riding alongside Detective Jack Janssen while he looks into the eyes of victims, suspects and pursues law and order in Washington County. My goal is to focus on the barriers of child abuse issues confronting every community, large and small.
Q. When you’re not writing or working on new stories, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
A. Spending time with Denise and family, and continue to connect with readers through book signings, blogs and book clubs.
Q. Where can people find your books?
A. Valley Bookseller in Stillwater; Chapter2 Books in Hudson, Wisconsin; Once Upon a Crime
Larry Simon has published two novels
in Minneapolis; and Amazon. My website is lcsimon.com.
Compiled
by
Shannon Granholm
ATHLETES OF THE MONTH
*Athletes
Malachi McKinnon
Forest Lake senior Malachi McKinnon plays junior hockey across North America during the winter but returns to high school each spring to compete in tennis. A past state qualifier, he has committed to play Division I hockey at the University of Maine. This past winter with Sherwood Park in the British Columbia Hockey League, McKinnon recorded 18 goals and 22 assists in 34 games. He also shot a hole-in-one last summer.
Forest Lake track & field
Forest Lake junior Alexis Fahey is a thrower on the track team. She is the defending state champion in the discus and is off to a strong start in 2025. Her throw of 154 feet, 11 inches at the 2024 state meet is the school record. This season, she set a new school record in the shot put with a throw of 41-1 at a home meet. Fahey also has a throw of 14011 in the discus and leads the state in both events after two weeks of competition. Last June, she placed third in the Junior Olympics nationals in the discus with a throw of 145-8.
Ella Martens
Stillwater senior Ella Martens won the 300-meter hurdles in 45.97 seconds at the Suburban East Conference Relays. She also placed fourth in the 100 hurdles and helped the 4x400-meter relay team to a second-place finish. In 2024, Martens was the conference champion in the 300 hurdles (46.89) and the section champion (45.85). She also ran on the fifth-place 4x400 team at the state meet.
Stillwater track & field
Stillwater junior Tyler Curnow won the shot put (54 feet, 6 inches) and discus (165-0) in a White Bear Lake meet with all Suburban East Conference (SEC) teams. He also placed second in shot put at two indoor meets, with throws of 53-4 1/2 and 52-2. Last year, he was section champion in both throws and took seventh at state in discus (160-2). Curnow is also an offensive guard in football, allowing zero sacks in the 2024 season.
Forest Lake hockey
Stillwater track & field
Alexis Fahey
Tyler Curnow
chosen by press staff
Forest Lake Veterans Memorial enters new development phase
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
When you’re at Lakeside Memorial Park in Forest Lake, you will likely come across a unique feature: a row of pavers, each engraved with the name of a local veteran, rank, unit and time of service. These pavers are part of an ongoing program by the Forest Lake Area Veterans Memorial Planning Committee to honor veterans, alive or deceased, through a special site. Now, the committe is planning for the memorial to enter a new phase of development. For this next stage, a round of old and new pavers are to be placed to form a raised platform, with a bronze centerpiece and flagpole in the middle. “It brings out a message of what service of veterans is all about,” said committee member Bob Dettmer. “I really believe that our community is going to be very happy with this memorial.”
The committee has placed pavers along the park’s walkway for both Memorial Day and Veterans Day dedications. The pavers themselves are paid for and ordered by residents; the committee is in charge of designing the final product. Recently, members began looking at ways to make the next order of pavers stand out.
“We started looking at what we really want as an above-ground scenario,” said committee chairman Ron Miller. “We wanted to bring the pavers that were already done, have those in the new section and continue to build on that. But we also wanted a background piece so that people can see it’s a veterans memorial.”
The centerpiece will be designed to have two sides: one featuring a
FOREST LAKE | CONTRIBUTED
committee is currently in discussion with the state Legislature about receiving further funding. “We’re hopeful that that comes through, even if it’s half of what we requested,” said committee designer Mark Finnemann, adding that community response has already been very positive. “All the organizations like Lions, Masons and the rest have participated, and I think the community has always given us a good response. It’s a very veteranoriented territory up here.”
Work on the raised platform will begin this fall, and completion is anticipated in spring 2026. However, Miller said more funding will be needed to finish the centerpiece, which he hopes will be completed by that fall.
In addition to honoring veterans, Dettmer hopes the memorial will be educational to younger viewers. “I think young people need to see memorials like this and understand the importance of our military and of honoring and respecting veterans. You look at parades when the flag goes by, and you’re supposed to stand up, honor the flag, our country and put your hand over your heart. Those are things young people need to see as role models by us adults to understand the importance of our country, our Constitution and serving in our military.”
soldier saluting and the other with the soldier’s spouse holding their daughter. Near the bottom will be an engraved sentence about how, despite war ravaging the world, the spirit of service will always shine through. “It’s a family thing that both male
and female might be in the service,” added Miller. “It’s kind of honoring everybody.”
The project’s cost is $750,000. Funds will be contributed from residents who purchase pavers, the city, state bonding money and legacy funds. The
Those interested in ordering a paver for the memorial site can do so at www.ci.forest-lake.mn.us/209/ Veterans-Memorial.
Staff Writer Erik Suchy can be reached at 651-407-1229 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com
Ice ridges: What are they, and what can you do?
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Picture this scenario. It’s spring, and you’ve returned from vacation to find a large ice sheet pushing against your house, maybe even causing property damage. “What is this,” you wonder, “and what will I do about it?”
This phenomenon is known as an ice ridge. Usually, it is caused by cracks forming in a lake’s ice sheet due to different contraction rates at the top and bottom. When water rises into the cracks and freezes, the sheet expands rapidly. As the weather warms the ice, the sheet expands and is pushed toward the shore. When it collides with the shoreline, the ice scrapes and pushes soil and rocks into mounds—thus creating the titular ridge.
“This winter was a very severe year for ice ridge formation on Forest Lake and elsewhere,” said Dan Scollan, groundwater protection hydrologist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “Other lakes I know that have been affected quite significantly are Big Green Lake and Big Carnelian Lake, though not nearly as extensive as here on Forest Lake.”
According to Scollan, a lack of snow cover across a lake is one of the main factors that lead to ice ridge formation. “That snow cover is important, because it insulates the ice from temperature fluctuations. “When you don’t have snow cover, the ice is really prone to swings in temperature.”
The size of the lake can also affect how much damage an ice ridge can cause.“Some studies have said that if you have a lake that’s maybe less than a half a mile across, you’re probably not gonna have enough ice to cause much damage on the soil,” added Scollan. “On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you have a lake that’s greater than a mile and a half across, you’re going to have some weak zones in that ice. It’s kind of this medium zone, between half a mile and a mile and a half, which seems to be where you get your most severe ice ridges.”
Despite their potential severity, ice ridges offer some benefits. One way they help lakes is by filtering runoff from a watershed, which can improve water quality. Ice ridges can also reduce shoreline erosion by forming natural seawalls.
Through the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District (CLFLWD), homeowners can access resources and programs for restoring shorelines damaged by ice ridges. These include site visits, shoreline assessments and financial assistance through grants. The district offers financial and technical support for replacing riprap —large stones or rocks used for shoreline stabilization — as well as for natural and bioengineered restoration and planting trees and shrubs along shorelines.
“We have a permitting program that deals with construction, erosion and sediment control,” said Lead Management Specialist Aidan Read. “Our cost-share program is specifically designed to help residents improve water quality and habitats, typically through small projects, including shoreline restorations.”
The district’s mini-grants are intended for smaller restoration projects, which Read says are for residents who are doing their own native planting or hiring contractors for assistance. “You can’t use this to install a riprap shoreline, but say you want to add that native planting afterward; this
would be a really good use for that. Otherwise, this would be something that’s suitable for shoreline trees, shrubs or any other water quality or habitat project you might have.”
The district’s Shoreline Habitat Incentive Program features grants aimed at those planting larger vegetation, such as trees and shrubs. It is also structured as a flat-rate incentive program. “If you want to plant a tree on your shoreline, we will pay you a set amount depending on the size of that tree,” said Read. “This is nice for someone looking for a small do-it-yourself project.” The project cost depends on how much square footage is planted and the number of trees and shrubs installed.
The Community Water Cost Share’s grants are for those who wish to rebuild their shoreline protection from scratch. Though competitive, the grants are tailored for larger shoreline projects and cover up to 75% of their cost. “This is well suited for people who are sick of a rock shoreline and want to start over,” said Read, adding that the grants will also work for turf shorelines as well.
More information on the district’s grant and restoration opportunities can be found online at www.clflwd.org/native-plantings-and-shorelinerestorations/.
Staff Writer Erik Suchy can be reached at 651-4071229 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com
The Forest Lake Area Veterans Memorial Planning Committee plans to build a new centerpiece, flagpole and raised platform to honor veterans at Lakeside Memorial Park. Pictured is a 3D rendering of the final design
COPERNICUS BROWSER CONTRIBUTED
“This winter was a very severe year for ice ridge formation on Forest Lake and elsewhere,” said Hydrologist Dan Scollan.
DAN SCOLLAN | CONTRUBUTED
Ice ridges form on shorelines due to ice expansion, which pushes the soil and creates mounds or ridges.
Sundays Acoustic Sundays 1-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Sundays Ongoing – Game Day, BYO or use our selection 1-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Tuesdays Bingo! Starting Nov 11 6pm
Tuesdays Beginner Yoga Flow Class 6-7pm
Wednesdays Ongoing – Trivia Night 7-9pm
Wednesdays Keychain Kash All Day
Thursdays Trivia Mafia 6pm
May 1 Music: Hailey James 5-8pm
May 1 Trivia Night 6:30-8pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 3 Craft Fair Noon-5pm White Bear Meadery
May 4 Star Wars Day Noon-8pm White Bear Meadery
May 4 Minnesota Bridal & Wedding Expo 5-8pm
May 4 Acoustic Sunday/Tim Cheesebrow 1-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 4 Hudson Community Expo 11am-3:30pm Belle Ame Vineyard
May 4 Candle Pouring Experience 2pm St. Croix Vineyards
May 4 Music: Steve Poynter 2-5pm 7 Vines Vineyard
May 6 Trivia with Ryan 6:30-8pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 7 Trivia Night 7-9pm White Bear Meadery
May 8 Music: Sten Carlson 5-8pm Belle Ame Vineyard
May 8 Music: Gary LaRue (sold out) 7 Vines Vineyard
May 10
Mothers Day Artist Market noon-5pm Big Wood Brewery
May 10 Devon Worley Band 8pm Big Wood Brewery
May 10-11 Rose Days & Mother’s Day Weekend St. Croix Vineyards
May 10
May 11
May 11
Mother’s Day Mini Market 11am-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Mother’s Day Tulip
Bouquet Bar 12-3pm 7 Vines Vineyard
Mother’s Day at Rustic Roots Rustic Roots Winery
May 11 Sunday Live Music Series 3-6pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 11
May 11
Acoustic Sunday-Vinnie Rose 1-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Mother’s Day Tours 1-3pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 13 Bingo! 6:30-8pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 14 Trivia Night 7-9pm White Bear Meadery
May 15
Farmers & Artisans Market 4-7pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 15 Music: Sten Carlson 5-8pm Belle Ame Vineyard
May 15 Trivia Night 6:30-8pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 16 Art at the Winery 6-8:30pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 17 May 17th Flip Cup Tournament
May 18
Register at bigwoodbrewery.com Big Wood Brewery
Acoustic Sunday-Tim Fast 1-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 18 Candle Making Experience 2-5pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 18 Sunday Music Series 3-6pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 18 Yoga in the Vines 10-11am St. Croix Vineyards
May 18 Paint and sip classes 3-5pm Croix Vineyards
May 20 Trivia with Ryan 6:30-8pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 21 Trivia Night 7-9pm White Bear Meadery
May 22 Music: Sarah VanValkenburg 5-8pm Belle Ame Vineyard
May 22 Puzzle Night 6-7:30pm Belle Ame Vineyard
May 24-25 Winemaker’s Barrel Tasting Noon-5pm St. Croix Vineyards
May 25 Sunday Music Series 3-6pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 25 Acoustic Sunday-Billy Johnson 1-4pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 25 Music: Michael August 2-5pm 7 Vines Vineyard
May 25 Paint & sip classes 3-6pm St. Croix Vineyards
May 28 Bingo! 6:30-8pm Rustic Roots Winery
May 28 Trivia Night 7-9pm White Bear Meadery
May 29 Music: Sten Carlson 5-8pm Belle Ame Vineyard
May 29 Trivia Night 6:30-8pm Dancing Dragonfly Winery
May 31 German music by Mr. Squeezy Wes
The Lowdown Person of the Month
Name: Phil Bruner
Residencies: Illinois, Wisconsin and Washington
Q: What brought you out to Stillwater?
A: I’m house sitting for friends in Minneapolis.
Q: What is the best life advice?
A: We’re not here forever and we’re gonna go somewhere; know where you’re going.
Q: What is your secret talent?
A: I talk and I talk. I talk to a lot of people around the world.
Compiled by Erik Suchy
CALENDAR BRIEFS
Washington County Master Gardener program hosts plant expo
The University of Minnesota
Extension Washington County Master Gardener volunteer program will host its annual plant sale and garden expo from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 17, in Building A at the Washington County Fairgrounds.
The expo will feature annuals and perennials, native and prairie plants, monarch and pollinator plants, grasses, herbs, vegetables and more. Master Gardener volunteers will be on site to offer advice on plant selection for novice gardeners and seasoned growers. Attendees are encouraged to bring plant or insect samples to the expo’s diagnostic clinic for analysis and recommendations. The expo will also feature education by specially trained tree care advisers, planting for pollinators and other gardening topics. Sale proceeds will be used to support Washington County Master Gardener educational activities.
For more information about the program, visit www. washingtoncountymg.org. The fairgrounds are located at 12300 40th St. N., Lake Elmo.
Dispose unwanted materials on Stillwater Collection Day
The city will hold its annual Collection Day event from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 31, at Lily Lake Ice Arena. This is an opportunity for residents to safely dispose of household hazardous waste items like paints, chemicals, batteries and other materials that don’t go in the regular trash. Hazardous materials and electronics from businesses will not be accepted.
Residents should place these hazardous items for drop-off in the trunk of a car, the rear of an SUV, or the cargo bed of a truck. Any items that residents do not want to dispose of must be kept separate from the items they are dropping off. Upon arrival, residents must provide the on-site attendant with their driver’s license or proof of residency and stay in their vehicle unless directed to selfunload large electronics.
Those who miss Collection Day can drop off their items at the Washington County North Environmental Center in Forest Lake at 6065 Headwaters Parkway. Questions regarding acceptable items can be directed to
Summer enrichment program coming to Forest Lake Area High School
Camp Invention, a nonprofit summer enrichment program, will be at Forest Lake Area High School from July 28 to Aug. 1.
Camp Invention is a partnership between the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The program challenges kindergarten through sixth-grade children to solve problems creatively through hands-on activities. These activities promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning and help build confidence, perseverance and resourcefulness. This year’s Discover program will feature activities such as Illusion Workshop, Claw Arcade and Penguin Launch, encouraging children to be confident in their ideas and explore their innovation.
More information on Camp Invention can be found at www. invent.org/programs/camp-invention.
Pet CPR/animal first aid class to open in Forest Lake
Pet Emergency Education and True Blue Equine will host a pet CPR and animal first aid certification class from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, May 4, at the Acres for Life Therapy and Wellness Center in Forest Lake.
The class will teach participants how to administer emergency CPR and first aid to an animal until veterinary care is available. Topics include safety techniques, performing emergency triage, taking vital signs, and how to restrain and properly transport sick or injured animals. Participants will receive an official certificate, a two-year online Animal Emergency Resource Center subscription, a class manual and additional resources.
Attendees can register for the Canine and Feline CPR class only or also attend the Equine Emergency First Aid class in the afternoon. Registration is available online at www.tinyurl.com/5h48mpce.
The Acres for Life Therapy and Wellness Center is located at 18323 July Ave. N.
Mosquito control activity is underway for 2025
The snow has melted, and the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) is taking preventative measures to reduce the summer onslaught of nuisance and disease-carrying mosquitoes in the Twin Cities.
An added tool to assist with operations this year will be more treatment drones that have been added to the MMCD fleet. For the first time in 2025, drones used to treat mosquito larvae in standing water will be used in every county of the district.
Other activities of the MMCD include surveillance and treatment to reduce the risk of disease and annoyance caused by mosquitoes, black flies and ticks in an environmentally sensitive manner. Each year field staff at MMCD monitor and treat wetlands that breed mosquitoes with a fleet of trucks, helicopters and drones. Many of our seasonal staff begin working in April and residents of the seven-county metro area may notice the green or white trucks with the MMCD logo or staff on bikes or on foot wearing brightly colored “Mosquito Control” vests.
Some of the activities that MMCD may be doing in your community include:
• Wetland surveillance: determining if ponds or swamps have mosquito larvae present.
• Catch basin surveillance: pulling off grates and inspecting neighborhood catch basins to
determine if mosquito larvae are present.
• Ground larval treatments: applying control materials to a wetland, structure or catch basin by hand or with a backpack.
• Helicopter larval treatments: applying control materials to a wetland via helicopter.
• UAS/drone larval treatments: applying control materials via drone.
• Setting or collecting traps: surveillance helps MMCD determine where and what types of mosquitoes are active.
The control materials and methods used by MMCD are regularly tested for safety and only applied when surveillance indicates they would be effective. Larval control, which is the most common form of treatment, consists of dry granules or pellets applied to standing water. The active ingredients are specifically designed to target mosquito larvae or adults with minimal impacts on non-target insects. The control materials are not harmful to people, pets or wildlife. For a complete list of control materials used, visit MMCD.org. Scheduled treatments including planned helicopter activity are posted daily on the MMCD website. At times MMCD employees may need to cross private property to access and check areas for mosquito larvae. If you have questions about mosquito control activities or concerns, call the MMCD front desk at 651-645-9149 or visit MMCD.org.
Phil Bruner
the center’s main number at 651-2757475.
Lily Lake Ice Arena is located at 1208 Greeley St. S., Stillwater.
Man sentenced in Forest Lake murder case
A North Branch man has been sentenced to over 19 years in prison for a murder committed in Forest Lake.
Dylan Robert Simmons, 21, was charged with seconddegree felony murder, criminal vehicular homicide and three counts of seconddegree assault with a dangerous weapon for driving his vehicle into a crowd at Lakeside Memorial Park in Forest Lake, running over and killing 17-yearold Darisha Bailey Vath. Simmons was found not guilty of the charge of second-degree intentional murder. Simmons’ sentence stands at 234 months in prison for the second-degree murder charge and 25, 32 and 46 months on the three counts of seconddegree assault. Each of his sentences is to be served concurrently, with credit for 614 days served. Simmons has also been ordered to pay a $500 fine. Judge Siv Mjanger left the issue of restitution open for 90 days. Simmons remains in custody at the Washington County Jail, awaiting transfer to the Minnesota Department of Corrections.
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From Sound to Cosmos: A Q&A with artist Annette Lee
CONTRIBUTED
In her new exhibition, “Ancient Echoes – Keepers of the Sky,” artist/scientist Annette Lee looks to discover a connection between the sounds of nature and space through soundscapes and visual storytelling. Through Lee’s heritage, she blends her knowledge of Indigenous culture and astrophysics to create the experience of Ancient Echoes. The exhibition also honors birds, as described in Lakota teachings, as a symbol of wisdom and resilience, celebrating their connection to the natural world. Press Publications sat down with Lee to discuss her inspiration behind the exhibition, planned visitor takeaways and upcoming projects.
Q: What inspired you to create “Ancient Echoes – Keepers of the Sky,” and how does it reflect your cultural heritage?
A: The inspiration is simply “putting down thanks.” I’m putting down thanks to the birds and the stars. These are the two forces that have brought tremendous amounts of healing and joy into my life since COVID and a death in the family. Over the last few years, when I was at the lowest point in my life, the stars were always there. I’ve always had a connection with the stars, and I became an astrophysicist. The new part is the birds; they brought a lot of joy into my life. I kept bumping into them and hearing them in a way I never had before.
Q: How does the Lakota concept of “Skan” (the motion of the universe) add significance to your exhibition?
A: This is the idea that motion is life. If you think about it through the science lens, you might think of the Brownian motion. At the smallest atomic scale, all of the atoms are in motion. From a Lakota perspective, we’re saying the same thing, but you have to consider how profound that is because it’s much older. If you’re just sitting at your desk, zooming through space, it’s like you almost don’t believe it. We know the Earth is in motion, but we fool ourselves into thinking that because of gravity, we’re stuck to the ground. If you zoom out and look at Earth from space, you see it’s in motion. It depends on your perspective, and there’s a truth, beauty and richness in having both perspectives. It’s really: “The sound is life, and the motion is life.” Those are the taglines.
Q: How do you merge Indigenous cultural perspectives with Western scientific approaches in your work?
A: My friend shared with me a teaching called “two-eyed singing.” It means seeing with the best of one eye. The key is to use both eyes to recognize the gift of multiple perspectives for the benefit of all. That’s the most important part. My secret sauce is art, science and culture. It’s very inclusive, too, because I’m a mixed-race person. I’m Lakota, and also Chinese and Irish. The three strands have always been art, science and culture.
Q: How does “Ancient Echoes” address ecological devastation and human identity loss?
If you go:
What: “Ancient Echoes – Keepers of the Sky.”
When: Now through Jan. 18, 2026
Where: Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St. Croix Trail N., Shafer.
Details: Art exhibition exploring connections between sound, nature and the cosmos through soundscapes and visual storytelling.
A: This is my response to, “We’re living in the greatest mass destruction in the history of the Earth”: animal extinction, climate crisis and plastic pollution. We are part of this whole tapestry of life on Earth, and we just showed up at the party. It’s a very simple idea that we are benefiting from all the life and hard work of the other species of life; birds, plants, everything in the ocean, we’re all sharing it. The call to action here is to peel back the layers of our identity. We are more than machines. The first thing in our role and responsibility is to acknowledge that we are dependent on these other entities for our well-being and that we’re reaping the benefits.
Q: What upcoming projects or exhibitions are you working on?
A: I am a senior researcher on the OSPAPIK (Ocean and Space Pollution, Artistic Practices and Indigenous Knowledge). I’m working right now on a piece that’s going to be an exhibit in October 2026. We just finished one in Los Angeles, which was NASA JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory) in partnership with the Getty in January. We’re having an exhibit in Belfast, Northern Ireland, that’s going to be similar to the NASA one, which has a little more focus on space. I’m also working on the Children’s Museum in St. Cloud; this is actually a three- or four-year project, but it is a huge renovation. There will be a VIP opening in May and then to the public in June. It’s called the Great Rivers Children’s Museum, and my part was the entire 40-foot ceiling animation and the sound design for the night sky.
Q: Reflecting on your heritage and experiences, what message do you wish to convey to audiences through your art?
A: The takeaway is that we can do better. Ever since COVID, we’re kind of going through this really tough time as a species. I think it’s important to not get suffocated by the negative and to be like, “Well, if this is not the path that we want to be on, then what other choices are there?” We have our lifetime, each one of us, however long that is or short that is, to make choices. The first step in recalibrating ourselves is to slow down and be in the present moment. You have to do that to hear sound and be like, “Imagine that we are part of this, that we have this sense of belonging in all of nature,” so we never have this loneliness epidemic. We don’t have to accept that because we just have to acknowledge that we are part of this whole tapestry of life.
To learn more about the exhibition, visit www. franconia.org/ancient-echoes-keepers-of-the-sky. For more information about Lee and her previous work, visit www.annettelee.com.
Editor’s Note: OSPAPIK is a multidisciplinary research project that looks at how knowledge, creativity and memory of Indigenous peoples are used in contemporary arts. This is in response to different environmental crises affecting both ocean and space.
Compiled by Erik Suchy
“Can-do” Clayton is still making a difference throughout the north metro three years after starting the job. The Lowdown readers might remember Clayton from previous article, “The right dog for the job: M Health Fairview’s newest member,” Aug. 4, 2022.)
Clayton joined M Health Fairview Emergency Medical Services’ (EMS) in 2022 as the team’s first facility dog. He provides crucial support and comfort to team members. Clayton was trained by Can Do Canines, a nonprofit that specializes in training service dogs to support individuals living with disabilities.
Through soundscapes and visual storytelling, Artist/ Scientist Annette Lee is exploring connections between sounds, nature and space in her new exhibition, “Ancient Echoes – Keepers of the Sky.”
