Vadnais Heights Press

Midwest Ski Otters celebrate 30 years

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Thirty years ago, the Midwest Ski Otters consisted of maybe 13 people. Now, three decades in the making,

the team is nearing its 200th skier.

The team’s 30th season will kick off at 6 p.m. Sunday, June 8. “It is a cool anniversary. It's very surreal. It doesn't feel

like it's been 30 years,” said the team’s founder, Kristi Skillings. Skillings and her brother, Kurt Carpenter, grew up water skiing with the Bald Eagle Ski Team.

The two both skied professionally for a while, including at the Tommy Bartlett show in Wisconsin. Carpenter also skied at

Plans for City Center apartment moves forward

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

A new apartment complex from Chase Real Estate is moving forward in Vadnais Heights.

The company plans to build two five-story apartment buildings featuring 360 units on undeveloped land at Labore Road and City Center Drive. Also to be included are outdoor amenities for residents and guests, including an outdoor pool, patio, fire pits, putting green and courtyards.

The construction of these buildings will be divided into two phases. Phase 1 is scheduled to begin this fall and is expected to be completed by late 2026. Phase 2 will commence following the completion of Phase 1 and after the project is stabilized, with an anticipated start in 2028 or later.

The subject property is currently zoned as “City Center” and will be rezoned to “Planned Unit Development” as part of the development process. The City Center’s future land use designation allows a maximum net density of 30 units per acre; however, this excludes areas such as wetlands, water bodies, floodplains, public parks and trails, rights-of-way and steep slopes from the total land area. The city plans to amend the maximum allowable density in City Center to 45 units per acre, aligning with the High-Density Residential future land use designation range. Planning/ Community Development Director Nolan Wall said that the proposal will not impact the site’s existing wetland.

“The proposed PUD process and development does align with the relevant purpose and intent,” said Wall, “and the subject property exceeds 5

Historical society finishes outdoor construction, looks inward next

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

White Bear Lake Armory is listed on the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places because it is an example of unique architecture in Minnesota.

“They don’t accept things just because they are old,” explained White Bear Lake Area Historical Society Executive Director Sara Hanson. “They want to know that it’s intact and the integrity is there … That’s the difference between historic preservation and hoarding. You have to make good choices.”

What is the best choice when it comes to preserving the armory? This is a question that has weighed on the historical society since it took ownership of the building in late 2022.

“Before we acquired the building, we did a thorough investigation. ‘What are we getting into?’” recalled Hanson. The roof’s masonry quickly became top priority. After enduring a century of Minnesota weather, the armory’s brickwork on the front wall was crumbling.

Bricks made 100 years ago, of course, are not still being made today. Therefore, the historical society

SEE ARMORY, PAGE 19

UPPER PHOTO BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS - LOWER PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The Midwest Ski Otters will be kicking off their 30th season at 6 p.m. Sunday, June 8 on Little Goose Lake.

SEE SKI OTTERS, PAGE 7

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Crews repair the brickwork outside the Armory.

Wayne McRoberts, of Forest Lake, got a hole-in-one on Hole No. 18 from 118 yards at Gem Lake Hills Golf Course May 29. He used a 9 iron.

Four skiers from the Midwest Ski Otters recently made waves at the 2025 World Water Ski Show Championships, held in Mulwala, Australia. White Bear Lake native Caroline Grubs and Evan Marcus of Palmyra, Wisconsin, earned spots on the USA Water Ski Show Team through a highly competitive national selection process. In addition to their roles in the team competition, both Grubs and Marcus also qualified for individual events — an honor reserved for the top five national finishers from each participating country in each discipline. Grubs, the 2024 U.S. National Champion in swivel skiing, came within a breath of a world title,

sliding into second place by two-tenths of a point. Marcus finished ninth in the freestyle jump.

Also representing the team were Ryan Hoops of White Bear Lake and Sarah Yost of Scandia, who earned a silver medal in the doubles event.

Evan Marcus, Ryan Hoops, Caroline Grubs, and Sarah Yost.

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 28

Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St.

Details: The White Bear Area Historical Society presents a program about how discriminatory practices in real estate, finance and insurance have impacted development in our area. Contact: wblumc.org

BUCK UP FREESTYLE PROFESSIONAL JUMP TOUR

When: 1-6 p.m. Saturday,  June 7

Where: Little Goose Lake, 4150 Hoffman Road, White Bear Township

Details: Watch as the best male and female athletes from around the country charge the ramp at the Buck Up tournament—where big air, big tricks, and even bigger wipeouts are guaranteed.

Contact: facebook.com/buckupfreestyle

MAHTOMEDI HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, June 7

Where: Aldrich Arena, Maplewood

WHITE

Where: WBLAHS Staduim CONTRIBUTED

THE SIDEKICKS: MUSIC OF THE 80'S

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 7

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake Details: Tribute band plays best tunes from the 80's. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org or 651478-7427

CONTRIBUTED

BEAR LAKE AREA HIGH SCHOOL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, June 5

BIRCHWOOD MUSIC IN THE PARK

When: 6 - 7:30 p.m. Sunday. June 8

Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park, Lake Avenue

Details: Sweet Rhubarb, a St. Paul trio with rich three part harmonies, melding elements of folk, bluegrass, country, pop, will perform.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

When: 7-9 p.m. Monday, June 9

Where: The Dugout, 96 Mahtomedi Ave.

Details: Grab a guitar, and sing a song or two.

Contact: dugoutbarmn.com/contact

A CULTURE OF POTS 2025 OPENING RECEPTION

When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, June 12

Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: The show will feature works from artists participating in the 33rd Annual St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour. Experience the exhibit’s magic in an intimate gallery setting. An artist panel and a food truck will be part of the evening. The exhibit is on display until July 25.

Contact: wbca@whitebeararts.org

Farewell address

The following quote comes from George Washington’s farewell address. It relates to predictions of government. “However (political parties) may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterwards the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.”

About the Town

Gene Johnson

September 17, 1796

Leo the XIV makes history

The 1.4 billion Catholics around the world, represented by Cardinals, have chosen their successor to Pope Francis. They sought a shepherd, a missionary, a teacher of humanity, someone capable of leading a Samaritan church close to the wounded, the suffering and the impoverished. Someone who would help overcome polarizing forces in the church and society, and someone who would make peace-building his goal. Some would say Pope Francis had led the way for the church, and many see the connecting threads between he and Leo XIV. Leo XIII in 1891 made the change of industrial era, migrations, poverty, displacement, and rapid changes. Now Pope Leo XIV will make changes for this digital age.

The significance of being an American may help many return to the church. There are moral and financial issues that will still have to be dealt with. This Pope is a man of God and believes Jesus is the way to eternal life.

He intends to be a bridge builder. That means finding ways to bridge differences and build unity.

As the Catholic church needs renewal and reform, so do all other denominations. Pope Leo is a teacher of humanity who wants us all to understand the gift of being called human.

We are all sinful. We need the forgiveness which our Lord Jesus provided through His death on the cross, and His resurrection.

This is a significant time in the life of Americans, as well as the world. We need God’s word to guide us, but to allow guidance we all need to be reading the Bible.

I hope it also brings sincere meaning to love your neighbor as yourselves.

Prostate cancer

I’m surprised that President Biden had not been tested for PSA since 2014. Now he is suffering from stage 4 prostate cancer at the age of 82.

From firsthand experience, I have been battling prostate cancer for two decades and it just doesn’t give up. As a result, I get a PSA test every four months and a Choline Pet scan during each of my trips to Mayo. I have had two radiation treatment series and every four months an injection of synthetic hormones called Luperon to discourage the cancer growth.

My surgeon from decades ago told me some cells escaped when they were removing the prostate. Those cells have been very hard to kill. It seems like we have it under control, but within five years it seems to raise its ugly head. Some drugs have been fairly tough on my body, such as Xtandi. Perhaps in Biden’s case, they just didn’t want to make anything public and they used the excuse that nobody over 70 needs a PSA test.

Over the years I have learned and published material that if men live long enough, they will more likely than not have prostate cancer. For example, they said if you live to the age of 60, you will have a 60% chance, at age 80 an 80% chance, etc.

This is a reminder to men beginning at age 40 to have a PSA test and know your Gleason score. The Gleason score helps tell the stage of the cancer.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

IAllow me to introduce myself

am CJ Wrzesien, a summer intern at Press Publications.

I recently graduated from Bethel University with a major in communication and a minor in journalism. While at Bethel I worked as a sports reporter for our student newspaper The Clarion, where I covered a variety of different sports including, baseball, football, hockey, volleyball and soccer. My other on campus job was working for the Bethel athletic department as a student communication assistant. As a communication assistant, I attended numerous Bethel athletic events and worked at the scorer’s table and in the press box, keeping stats and also writing game recaps.

On a more personal level, I grew up and spent the majority of my life in Orlando, Florida where I lived until I graduated high school. After graduation I moved to Shakopee with my mom and twin sisters, where I began attending classes at Normandale Community College. After three

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• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

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years of working part time and attending community college, I completed my associates degree and decided to transfer to Bethel. Through high school and even well into community college I never knew what career I wanted to pursue. But I did cultivate a love of sports and in particular watching sports from a young age, and I knew that I was a good writer. Eventually I made the decision to combine the two and began pursuing a degree in communication and journalism in my second year at Normandale. I discovered my passion for writing and covering sports at Bethel. Including the final game of Bethel’s longtime Head Football Coach Steve Johnson’s 30-year career. I was able to make the trip for the Royals playoff game against the University of WisconsinWhitewater and that was the story where I knew that I wanted to keep writing about sports.

All of those experiences writing for The Clarion and going to games has helped me find my passion for writing and storytelling. I plan to keep using those skills that I have developed over this summer at Press Publications and continue to develop them further.

This summer at Press Publications I will be able

to apply what I have learned working in sports and at The Clarion on a variety of different news stories. Having the opportunity to cover a wide variety of stories will help me develop my skills as a writer, while also allowing me to interact with different people and places that I otherwise would not have the chance to.

This will be my second journalism internship, after spending last summer as an intern at the Dakota County Tribune. In addition to interning at Press Publications, I will also be working as a scout for Prep Network, covering their basketball tournaments and writing about high school prospects.

Working in the news department at Press Publications will give me an opportunity to tell a variety of stories and get firsthand experience in a realworld newsroom. I look forward to telling stories about the local community and getting to know more about the area and the people who live here while also gaining experience that will help me grow both personally and in my career.

CJ is a news intern at Press Publications.

BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS 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.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.

• All letters are subject to editing.

• Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication.

• To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

CJ’s Chatbox CJ Wrzesien

Dignity on the Preserve

I want to thank you for the extensive article you wrote, and your editorial piece, honoring the life of Curt Feistner. I recently became aware of Curt's story through a dear friend, retired Army Chaplain Jim Brisson, who joined the pastor at St. Andrew's Church for Curt's funeral and also presided at his interment at Fort Snelling. Jim asked me if I knew where the Curt Feistner Memorial Preserve was located. I had to admit I had never heard of it.

Fast forward: I attended Birchwood's Parks Committee meeting in April and learned of a tiny sliver of land at the east edge of South Shore Blvd., which is the Preserve. I also learned there was signage sharing Curt's story that had been stored away due to the construction along South Shore Blvd. Through their efforts, the sign has been temporarily placed at Wildwood Park until energies can be directed to tidying up the Preserve and making it accessible to residents.

Birchwood has some other parks projects in the works and the Preserve may not be addressed for a bit. I hope that when the time is right, the contacts you established researching Curt's story might be enthusiastic to join in the efforts to bestow the dignity on the Preserve that its namesake deserves.

Susan Hambly White Bear Lake

Thank you for coverage

American Legion Post 168, VFW Post 1782 and the family of Major Curtis Feistner wish to join General Paul Nakasone in his compliment to Managing Editor Shannon Granholm for her well-researched and wellwritten article, “White Bear Lake honors one of its own this Memorial Day.”

As General Nakasone said during the White Bear Lake Memorial Day ceremony, “If you have a chance, please go back and read the incredible article written by Shannon Granholm on Curtis Feistner.”

Thank you for her article, and the following other articles or sources of information: the parade listed in the Memorial Day events, Union Cemetery event highlights, Honoring our Heroes and Volunteers prepare for Memorial Day. The May 21 edition of the White Bear Press was a great source of information for our community and provided the veterans in our community who paid the ultimate sacrifice their due respect.

For those who were not able to attend the White Lake Memorial Day ceremony, courtesy of Suburban Community Channels, you can view it by going to https://www.youtube.com/ watchv=TW__80HSD3Y.

William Milashius Commander, American Legion Post 168

Feeling exploited

I am not involved in our local government. Like most residents, the logistics of running a city move along without our notice until they directly affect our lives.

The latest contract between White Bear Township and its chosen garbage collection provider, Republic Services, should have every township resident upset. Consumer exploitation occurs when the cost of a good or service is significantly disproportionate to the actual value. Due to the combination of our Boards complacency, or incompetence, and shareholder pressure for continuous growth, each resident is being exploited at the hands of our leadership. The cost for the same service has increased by 49% from 2024 to 2025, with another 8% increase contractually guaranteed in 2026. For reference, our charges from 2020 to

2025: $46, $48, $55, $58, $67, $101. We now pay twice as much for the same service as we did in 2020. During this same time, the stock value of Republic Services has increased in value by 198%, from $85/share to $254/share.

I don’t expect the costs to remain constant year after year. Increases that track closely with inflation would be fair. To the credit of all parties, previous contract negotiations did well to keep our costs relatively flat. But the township has not offered any additional information or reassurance of lower costs in the future when I voiced my concerns over the latest contract. This increase is unacceptably high, and the township owes us a proper explanation.

Tim Giese White Bear Township

Environmental concerns ignored

The current GOP/Trump administration clearly is not listening or doesn’t care what their constituents think when it comes to environmental concerns. According to Pew Research, 60% of Americans surveyed said that strong environmental laws are worth the cost. Minnesotans feel even stronger, coming in at 71%, higher than any other state.

But the GOP/Trump administration is doing the exact opposite. Recent actions paint a bleak picture for our future. First, the EPA plans to repeal all federal limits on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas plants, claiming the climate impact is too small. Their stated logic is that U.S. emissions are too minor globally to justify regulation even though we rank second in the world in total emissions with the highest per capita emission rate. This is a big win for the fossil fuel industry. Ninety-seven percent of climate scientists agree that humans are causing global warming by releasing large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

Next, the GOP/Trump administration has taken actions to reduce or delay certain PFAS (forever chemicals) regulations. One key rule withdrawal was setting limits on PFAS in industrial wastewater discharge. This is a big win for the chemical industry. I guess they think drinking and breathing toxic chemicals is OK for our health.

Finally, they continue to attack our beloved National Parks by reversing the order to phase out single-use plastics. American buy 30 billion plastic water bottles annually, and the majority end up in landfills, so our parks become dumping grounds.

These changes defy logic, are not supported by scientific data and go against the desire of the majority of Americans. We deserve leaders who care about us and our future and not leaders who are driven by petty grievances and big business greed. Contact your elected officials and tell them to prioritize environmental issues.

Judy Lissick Vadnais Heights

What it means to be Christian

Christian — A historically bold label that is commonly misused. What is the religion of Christianity truly about? In only three hundred words, this best defines a Christian.

The Holy Bible is the best resource for any Christian today. Not fully abiding by every law of these ancient texts is the most frequent mistake committed by Christians worldwide. The Bible contains 64,000 crossreferences and holds the infallible truth. Understanding the significance of sacred Scripture is a necessary milestone on a journey to Christ.

The term Christian originated from the Greek word “christos,” meaning the messiah. The key factor of being a Christian, explicitly illustrated in the Bible, is understanding the meaning and significance of Jesus Christ. The difference between man and God grew so drastic that humanity became unworthy of obtaining life with Christ. Because of God’s omnibenevolence, the Lord humbled himself and became man to bridge the gap between the natural and supernatural. Jesus Christ was born 100 percent man and 100 percent God. Jesus can forgive, making it possible for man to enter paradise. Comprehending that complex concept is crucial.

The most difficult challenge of maintaining the title of a Christian is ensuring that one will obtain eternal life. Matthew 7:21-22 demonstrates that many who believe they are of God will not be allowed into the gates of heaven. The scriptures warn that to be called a child of God, one must be truly devoted to God at heart. Even those who performed the greatest deeds may not enter heaven if they don’t have faith at heart.

To conclude this short article, comprehending the meaning of Christianity is important. A true Christian is centered on every aspect of the Bible, understands the significance of Jesus Christ and has absolute faith in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Maximillian Bork White Bear Lake

Thanks to public works

On behalf of VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary, we want to thank the Public Works Parks crew for their efforts at Veterans Park prior to Memorial Day. We appreciate the support of Public Works and were proud to have our Memorial Day event in such a lovely setting.

Bob Krominga Post Commander

Sara McFee Auxiliary President

Fencing not necessary

It must have been a slow news week for a fence request denial to make it to the top of the front page last week. Rachel and Brian Bonin requested permission to install a chain link fence below the high-water mark (public land) and floating buoys in White Bear Lake near the 7th Street “dog” beach (not 8th street as per the article). One problem with the request is that the Bonin’s dock is not adjacent to the dog beach. Their lakeside property is adjacent to another landowner’s dock which is then adjacent to the people’s swim beach and dock, which is in turn adjacent to the dog beach. I have utilized the people’s beach and dock many times with my children and now grandchildren and very rarely see a dog cross the buoy line and encroach over to the people’s swim area. I have never seen a dog cross the people’s swim area to encroach on private property on the other side, much less the properties further down. I’m not saying it never happens, but I’m quite certain it would be a very rare occurrence. A fence and buoys would impair humans from walking along the beach (on public land) and boats from passing close to shore along the lake, perhaps what they have in mind. I wish the article had also mentioned the many accommodations the City has already made to the private landowners near the dog beach. The City recently has required that dogs be on-leash and they plan for a resource officer to help monitor the dog beach on summer weekends. This is in addition to the previous accommodations that include separate steps for the dog beach, the fence and buoys between the dog beach and people’s beach and even more recently added a gate and signage at the top of the steps to the dog beach.  The City has done much to accommodate the nearby landowners and I agree with the White Bear Lake Conservation District that additional fencing by the landowners is not something they should feel compelled to approve.

Who to Call in Government

President Donald Trump 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, DC 20500 202-456-1414

US Sen. Amy Klobuchar 425 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 202-224-3244

US Sen. Tina Smith 720 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 202-224-5641

Governor Tim Walz & Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan 130 State Capitol, 75 Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155

US Rep. Betty McCollum (District 4) 2426 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 202-225-6631

Minnesota Rep. Brion Curran (District 36B) 5th Floor, Centennial Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-4342

Minnesota Sen. Heather Gustafson (District 36) 95 University Avenue W., Minnesota Senate Bldg., Room 3103, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-1253

Minnesota Rep. Patti Anderson (District 33A) 2nd Floor, Centennial Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-3018

Minnesota Sen. Karin Housley (District 33)

95 University Avenue W, Minnesota Senate Bldg., Room 2213, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-4351

Minnesota Rep. Heather Gustafson (District 36) 95 University Avenue W., Minnesota Senate Bldg., Room 3103, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-1253

Sheryl Bolstad White Bear Lake

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• A Minneapolis man was arrested May 21 in Arden Hills following a chase that began near Interstate 694 and White Bear Avenue.

• A St. Paul man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault in the 3500 block of Dell Court May 21.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 1400 block of Park Street May 21.

• Officers assisted St. Paul police in locating an assault suspect and taking the suspect into custody in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road May 21.

• Disorderly conduct was reported May 21 in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road.

• Disorderly conduct was reported May 22 in the 2700 block of County Road E.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 1500 block of Park Street May 22.

• Officers served a warrant in the 3800 block of McKnight Road May 22.

• Fraud was reported in the 4400 block of Highway 61 May 22.

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 3500 block of Century Avenue May 22.

• Fraud was reported in the 3400 block of Glen Oaks Avenue May 23.

• Officers responded to a report of juveniles shooting bb guns at vehicles in the 1800 block of County Road F May 23.

• Officers responded to a report of gunshots and a fight near the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue May 24. An adult male victim with a gunshot would was located and transported to the hospital in critical condition.

• A business in the 2600 block of County Road E had a window damaged overnight May 24.

• Two shoplifting incidents were reported May 24 in the 900 block of Wildwood Road.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2100 block of Eighth Street May 24.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 4500 block of Highway 61 May 24.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 1600 block of Highway 96 May 24.

• Officers mediated a dispute between a couple in the 4800 block of Lake Avenue May 24.

• Officers assisted Ramsey County Water Patrol with a boat theft May 24.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 2500 block of Dorothy Avenue May 24.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and Orchard Lane May 25. Officers mediated a dispute in the 4900 block of Birch Lake Circle May 25.

• Officers responded to a report of a man soliciting in the 2300 block of Birch Street May 26.

• Fraud was reported in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road May 26.

• Officers provided drone assistance to Washington County Water Patrol to locate a missing paddle boarder on White Bear Lake.

• Officers investigated a dog bite incident in the 2000 block of Fifth Street May 26.

• Officers responded to a family dispute at Ramsey County Beach May 26. One person was cited for disorderly conduct.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 4800 block of Centerville Road May 26.

• A Vadnais Heights man was arrested on Highway 61 May 27 for a KOPS alert he acquired after fleeing police n Falcon Heights.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3600 block of Auger Lane May 27.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

The Washington County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:

Birchwood Village

• White Pine Lane residents on April 21 reported a fraud attempt that did not result in any financial loss at the time of the report.

Dellwood

• A suspicious vehicle observed by Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies on patrol on Dellwood Avenue outside a business at 10:44 p.m. April 17 turned out to be two people fixing the garage door.

Grant

• A suspicious vehicle was reported in front of a house in the 11000 block of Julianne Avenue April 16, turned out to be someone the complainant knew. An individual of undisclosed identity was arrested April 17 at a facility in the 11000 block of Julianne Avenue on an Apprehend and Detain order. An A&D warrant authorizes law enforcement to take a person into custody for violating a domestic abuse no contact order or when an individual is on conditional release.

• After deputies arrived on scene to take custody of a bicycle reported found April 18 in the 8000 block of 75th Street N., the owner of the bike also arrived on scene to take custody of the bike.

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township: Vadnais Heights

• A Vadnais Heights man, 43, was arrested for domestic assault at 9:10 p.m. April 12 in the 200 block of Primrose Court after he assaulted his ex-wife and damaged her property. Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies arriving on scene determined that a domestic assault had, indeed, occurred, and property belonging to the victim had been destroyed. The suspect was taken into custody and hauled off to Ramsey County jail without incident. Meanwhile, at 11:19 p.m. that evening, as part of the same case number, deputies issued a metrowide alert for a Vadnais Heights woman, 44, after she allegedly came out of a house in the 200 block of Primrose Court and smashed the back window of a vehicle in which a man was sitting. The man in the vehicle, 41, had had a previous relationship with the suspect. The case is under investigation.

• A Keep Our Kops Safe alert was issued for a White Bear Lake man, 48, who allegedly showed up at the home of his former boss in the 4000 block of Whiton Avenue at 12:04 a.m. April 13 and used a sledgehammer to destroy the front door.

• A New Brighton man, 34, was issued a trespass notice at 3:15 a.m. April 13 in the 1100 block of County Road E after hotel employees at the Holiday Inn & Express Suites reported that the man had been living in his vehicle on their property

• A Vadnais Heights man, 44, with a history of promoting prostitution was arrested at 9:03 a.m. April 17 in the 800 block of Parkside Drive for violating the conditions of his parole by being in possession of several cell phones, after deputies assisted Ramsey County parole

• Residents in the 10000 block of 101st Street N. on April 21 reported credit card fraud involving several unrecognized purchases over the last couple of weeks.

• A male reported himself for hiding in the woods in the 10000 block of 75th Street N. at 1:46 a.m. April 22 because someone was after him.

Mahtomedi

• Deputies received a 911 call at an unknown address from a juvenile trying to order a pizza at 10:48 p.m. April 14. Deputies checked with several juveniles, all of whom denied having made the call.

• A contractor called deputies on the non-911 line to report being accidentally locked into a gated area on Hickory Street by the public works department at 3:45 p.m. April 15. Deputies advised the department to come out and release the contractor.

• A suspicious vehicle reported after hours in the Century College parking lot at 11:25 p.m. April 15 turned out to be occupied by students doing homework on the college Wi-Fi. Deputies advised the students that they could not be there.

• Woodridge Court residents on April 16 reported a tax return fraudulently filed under the name of their child.

• A wallet was reported lost April 18 in the 3000 block of Century Avenue N.

• Deputies issued traffic citations to eight different motorists all over Mahtomedi during the week of April 14-19. Violations included using an electronic communication device while driving, expired

officers with a client home visit.

• A resident in the 3600 block of Oak Creek Terrace on April 17 reported receiving a phone call from a person claiming to be with the U.S. Border Patrol, who instructed her to drive to the bank, withdraw $50,000 from her savings account and deposit it into a Bitcoin machine to satisfy a fictitious warrant for her arrest. The victim did send some of the money to the fraudsters, but not all of it.

White Bear Township

• A resident in the 1700 block of Garden Lane on April 7 reported that unknown persons had fraudulently filed federal income tax forms on his behalf. A bicycle was reported found April 7 by a woman in the 5900 block of Brandlewood Court. Deputies arrived on scene to take custody of the bicycle for safekeeping at the patrol station.

• A resident in the 1300 block of Top Lane on April 9 reported that he may have been unknowingly storing stolen property in a trailer at his residence. The mother of his child had given him the property within the past three months to store on his property.

• A St. Paul man, 44, was arrested for misdemeanor theft at 9:55 a.m. April 11 after he was caught shoplifting at the Cub Foods store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive.

• Deputies responded to a report of a disagreement in the 2500 block of Eighth Street at 4:28 p.m. April 11 and made sure the dispute remained verbal-only and didn't turn into a criminal offense. A New Brighton man reported finding a large bone near a compost site in the 5900 block of Sherwood Road on April 12 and turned it over to deputies to investigate what kind of being the bone belonged to.

registration, driving after revocation, no insurance and speeding.

Pine Springs

• A westbound motorist was cited at 9:43 p.m. April 15 on Highway 36, just west of Hilton Trail N. for violating the Ted Foss Move Over law. The law was passed to honor State Trooper Corporal Theodore “Ted” Foss, who was killed in 2000 on I-90 near Lewiston while making a traffic stop.

Willernie

• A burglary was reported April 14 on Wildwood Road. When the complainants asked for details about the burglary at the home of their parent, for whom they had power of attorney, deputies advised them to contact the Washington County Records Division to request a report.

• Warner Avenue residents reported a scam on April 15 that involved no financial loss at the time of the report. However, the complainants did provide personal information to the scammer. Deputies gathered information due to the identity theft that had occurred and advised the complainant to notify them should an identity theft incident occur.

• Deputies issued one traffic citation in Willernie this week, on April 16 for stop sign violation at the intersection of Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N.

Loretta Harding

SKI OTTERS: From basement start-up to premier waterskiing show in 3 decades

SeaWorld in Ohio.

After college, Skillings worked at Tally's and Dockside Water Skiing Company, owned by Keith and Jan Dehnert. Keith wanted to start a weekly water ski show. Keith asked her if she would be interested, and she responded, “Not only would I be interested, I could bring at least 10 people with me.”

She ultimately asked the Dehnerts if she could take the idea and run with it, and they gave their blessing. Carpenter explained they grew up traveling to water ski shows all over, so the idea of having a home site for a show was attractive. “There were a couple of teams in Wisconsin doing that, but nobody in the Twin Cities area was doing it at the time,” he said. “We wanted to bring something unique to the community.”

The two couldn’t think of a better location for a hometown water ski show than White Bear Lake. “It seemed like the absolute perfect town. It has that small-town community feel,” Skillings shared.

A group of 13 started meeting in the Skillings and Carpenter’s parents’ basement. Starting out, they had little to no equipment. “We were borrowing boats. Any member who had a boat would try to bring it,” Skillings recalled. “We were trying to figure things out. We were piecing equipment together and hauling it in the back of the pickup truck to and from all the practices and shows.”

In 2001, the team added a Junior Development team to focus on teaching some of its youngest members the skills necessary to not only water ski, but show ski. Approximately five years later, the team added its Stepping Stones program. All summer long, four days a week, the team offers lessons for all ages and abilities in a one- or two-day lesson.

Today, the team has a few third-generation team skiers and several second-generation skiers.

“This is an activity or sport that you or the entire family can do. We try to get mom, dad, brothers, sisters, everybody involved in whatever capacity we can in the boats, on the docks or on the water,” Skillings explained.

Carpenter added, “It’s not like other sports … you can go coach, but it is not the same thing. You are not out on the ice with them, you are not playing in the

games with them; skiing you are. You are a part of it, and they are a part of it.”

The youngest member of the team is just months old and the oldest is 70.

“You have a 7-year-old on top of a pyramid who is working with teenagers, 20-year-olds and 50-yearolds,” Skillings explained. “We’ve got every age, every demographic all working together for a common goal.”

Over the years, the team has produced many skiers that have gone on to ski professionally. Before the Tommy Bartlett show closed, the team had several skiers who would leave for a while to do that and then return to the Ski Otters to get their own families involved in the sport.

“Seeing some of these kids who have started in our junior program that couldn't ski to becoming national or even world champions is pretty amazing to have been there for that whole journey,” Skillings said.

Most of the team’s shows are home shows, but the team does travel to compete in the Regional Show Ski Tournament in July as well as the National Show Ski Tournament in August if it qualifies.

In addition to the growth of the team, the size of the crowd has grown, too. Skillings and Carpenter continue to be amazed by all the first-time attendees each week.

“People who have lived in White Bear Lake their whole lives have never been to a show. They have no concept of the size, scale, production, quality and

technical level that's there in their own backyard,” Carpenter said. “Our show, compared to Tommy Bartlett, is bigger, there is way more overall talent and quantity, and the productions are on par or better.”

Skillings added, “It’s Tommy Bartlett on steroids.” Every two years, the show’s theme switches. “A script is written out (by Carpenter), so it is like a play,” Skillings explained. "There are characters, costumes, a story, and it is all acted out on stage and on the water.”

For 2025, the show’s theme is a continuation of last year’s theme, “OtterTime Fitness.” To wrap up the season, the Ski Otters will host a reunion/ alumni show on Sunday, Aug. 24, to celebrate its 30th anniversary. The show will incorporate each of the themes that have been done since the team’s inception.

“We did it at our 20th anniversary, and it was so much fun,” Skillings recalled. “It was fun to see all those people come back. It’s amazing how many people have come through this team and the impact it has made on (so many) lives.”

For more information about the Midwest Ski Otters, visit skiotter.com.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory

Ramsey County promotes safe firearm storage, harm prevention

BY MADELINE DOLBY SHOREVIEW PRESS EDITOR

Ramsey County leaders are recommitting to the county’s longstanding work to engage residents through the Ramsey County Gun Safety Initiative. The initiative was created in 2016 through a partnership between the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office and Public Health Department. The initiative encourages gun owners to prevent accidental shootings involving children by securing their firearms with free gun locks available at 20 locations throughout the county, including the Shoreview Library. So far, the program has given out 8,000-10,000 free gun locks to Ramsey County residents. Recently, multiple Ramsey County officials and leaders got together at the Shoreview Library to discuss the initiative and the importance of gun safety.

“All those bad things about gun violence, they’re preventable. They really are. And what it requires is for the people in our community to recognize that they can be a part of it,” Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said.

According to St. Paul Ramsey County Director of Public Health Amy Coran the Minnesota Department of Health provided preliminary data at the end of May that showed the suicide rate in the state remained the same in 2024 compared to 2023. In 2024, the state recorded 813 suicides among residents. Coran said this is below the state high of 860 deaths in 2022.

Gun safety tips provided by the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office:

• Keep guns unloaded when not in use.

• Lock ammunition in a separate location.

• Use a trigger or cable lock.

• Place guns in a safe or lock box.

“While these preliminary numbers show that suicide rates per 100,000 are holding steady, the overall upward trend over the last 20 years is concerning,” Coran said. “As we consider the impact death by suicide has on families and communities, it is important for everyone to know that suicides are preventable, help is available and recovery is possible.”

The Minnesota Department of Health statistics show that firearm injuries were the leading cause of suicide deaths at 51%. National statistics also show that half of all youth suicides and 84% of youth homicides involve firearms. In 2020, firearm injuries became the leading cause of death for American children and adolescents.

“These grim statistics are why gun locks and safely secure firearms are an important part of the work to prevent suicides, accidental deaths and injuries and gun violence,” Coran said. “St. Paul Ramsey County Public Health has been involved with this gun lock project from the start because preventing illness, injury and premature death are core public health concerns.”

Ramsey County Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh, Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Commander Jeremy Bolen, Ramsey County Attorney John Choi, Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness-Minnesota Chapter Sue Abderholden and St. Paul Ramsey County Public Health Director Amy Caron speak on the Ramsey County Gun Safety Initiative at the Shoreview Library.

Public health nurses a part of the state’s home visiting program talk with families about making their homes safe for potential hazards, such as poisons, electrical outlets and guns. Coran said the nurses discuss the importance of keeping guns locked, particularly if older children are in the home, the importance of keeping ammunition separate from the gun and how to safely transport firearms into vehicles.

“Unintentional shootings occur most frequently at times when children are likely to be home over the weekend and in the summer,” Coran said. “Nearly one child gains access to a loaded firearm and unintentionally shoots themself or someone else every day in America, an average of 350 children a year. More than seven in 10 intentional firearm shootings occur in and around homes.”

The Ramsey County’s crisis and mental health team helps connect residents in need to various resources, such as stabilization services, de-escalation, crisis intervention, mental health assessments and crisis plans. Another resource available to children, teens and adults is the mental health urgent care, located at 402 University Ave. E, St. Paul.

“As a community, we must work to prevent suicides. We must work together to support and care for each other, especially for people who are struggling with their mental health or feeling despair. We must ensure access to health, and also to hope,” said Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Minnesota Sue Abderholden.

Other mental health resources that residents can utilize is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The lifeline provides emotional support for people in distress or who are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis. It is also available to connect callers to additional, local resources and community support services as needed (See “Everything you need to know about 988,” White Bear Lake Press, Aug. 10, 2023).

“I have lived experience that drives this work. When

I was 13, a classmate of mine died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His family and mine were very close. I still do not know if this tragedy was intentional or accidental,” said Ramsey County Commissioner (District 1) Tara Jebens-Singh said. “Some of the lessons that I learned as a child from that event are guns are lethal, your life can change in an instant and it can happen to any family.”

Local free gun lock distribution sites:

• Ramsey County Library—Roseville

• Ramsey County Library—Shoreview

• Ramsey County Service Center—Maplewood

• Ramsey County Service Center—Roseville

• Ramsey County Service—St. Paul

• Roseville Police Department

Call ahead for availability and ask staff for assistance to receive your free cable gun lock.

“Talk about gun safety, normalize conversations around mental health, share this information. The more people we can reach, the more lives we can protect. Together we have the power to make a difference,” Jebens-Singh said. “Creating a distance and time between an individual and a firearm can save a life. A few seconds to lock a firearm can mean decades more life for children, or someone in crisis. Your actions can be the difference between tragedy and hope. Together through simple actions, like securing a firearm with a lock, we can help save lives across Ramsey County.”

For more information about the initiative, go to www.ramseycounty.us/your-government/leadership/ county-attorneys-office/community-initiatives/gunsafety-initiative. For additional gun lock resources, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety website or the Roseville Police Department, 2660 Civic Center Drive.

Editor Madeline Dolby can be reached at 651-431-1226 or shoreviewnews@presspubs.com

White Bear Lake performer stars in History Theatre’s “Whoa, Nellie!”

White Bear Lake resident Leslie Vincent is a performer and jazz musician. Recently, Vincent landed the role of Annie Oakley in “Whoa, Nellie!”, a musical hosted by the History Theatre located in St. Paul. The show will premiere on Wednesday, May 28, and run through Sunday, June 8. “Whoa, Nellie!” tells the rip-roaring musical tale of Nellie King, the “wily and scandalous female cowboy detective” whose countless criminal exploits and penchant for male attire made her an 1800s Minnesota media icon. By turns hilarious, tuneful and deeply emotional, this grand spectacle resurrects an array of vaudevillian superstars to share a story of surprising contemporary resonance.

Recently, Press Publications sat down with Vincent to learn more about her and her role in “Whoa, Nellie!”

Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

A. My name is Leslie Vincent; I’m a performer who’s lived here in White Bear Lake since 2020. I’m primarily a jazz musician who writes and performs

her own songs, but I also love musical theater and used to perform exclusively as a professional actor.

Q. Is this your first show with the History Theatre?

A. No! I performed in “Teen Idol: The Bobby Vee Story” and “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story," which were incredible experiences.

Q. What was your first reaction when you found out you’d be playing Annie Oakley in this premiere production?

A. I was stoked! I loved the script—I was

ready to jump right into rehearsals, even though it was about 10 months away.

Q. Annie Oakley is such a well-known historical figure. How does “Whoa, Nellie!” portray her in a fresh or unexpected light?

A. Annie exists in the play to shed light on Nellie’s story. As a “real-life cowgirl,” Annie is someone Nellie looks up to and aspires to be.

Q. What kind of research or preparation did you do to play Annie Oakley—and how did you balance historical accuracy with

theatrical flair?

A. I paid attention to the broad strokes (physicality, accents) and then blended her into the world that we created to support the story of Nellie King.

Q. The show celebrates bold, unconventional women. How do you see that spirit reflected in your character and in the show overall?

A. I love bold, unconventional women. It’s exciting to play someone who stands her ground and is rooted firmly in herself. Annie’s overcome a lot, and I bring that strength to every scene I'm in.

Q. You’re originating a role in a brand-new musical. What’s the most exciting (or daunting) part of that experience?

A. It was amazing to show up as a collaborator — to add my insights to the music and characters. I was able to create my own harmonies and vocal lines to suit my voice, a rarity in musical theater!

Q. What do you hope audiences walk away thinking or feeling after they see “Whoa, Nellie!?”

A. I hope people feel inspired, and maybe even hum one of our tunes!

Compiled by Shannon Granholm

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Some of the cast of “Whoa, Nellie!”

PHOTOS BY MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Commander Jeremy Bolen, with the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, demonstrates how to use a gun lock.

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

BASEBALL

Mahtomedi, seeking a fifth straight Section 4AAA title, went 3-0 last week and has two chances to win in the finals Thursday at 5 p.m., at University of Northwestern. The Zephyrs (15-7) beat St. Paul Johnson 10-0  with Matheu Mizinski striking out 10 in five innings. The Zephyrs won 10-5 over Hill-Murray after losing twice to the Pioneers in conference. Ethan Felling, Winston Wisely and Andrew Sokoll pitched. The Zephyrs took a 6-1 lead on top-seeded St. Anthony Village (19-3) and held on to win 6-4 Saturday. Connor Finn threw four innings (one run, eight strikeouts) and Mizinski finished. Peyton Whitbeck delivered a threerun double against H-M and a two-run triple against SAV. Finn is 5-for-12 with two doubles, a triple and four RBI’s. Cody Loida is  5-for-11 (two RBI’s) and Wisely 4-for-7 (three runs).

LACROSSE

Both Mahtomedi teams won close games in their Section 4 openers. The No. 4 seeded Zephyr boys (10-4)

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

BOYS GOLF

tripped Irondale 6-5 at home. They faced No. 1 Stillwater on Monday. The No. 5 Zephyr (8-6) girls nipped No. 4 Gentry Academy 8-7 in overtime. They also faced No. 1 Stillwater on Monday. The championship games will be Wednesday at high seed.

TENNIS

Mahtomedi senior Brandon Pham will play in the state tennis singles tournament Thursday and Friday at the University of Minnesota. Ranked No. 4 in the state, Pham was Section 4AA runner-up after top-ranked, unbeaten Soren Swenson of Mounds View edged him 4-6, 7-6 (4), 6-2 in the finals. Pham outscored his first three opponents 30-2. He is 13-2, with both losses to Swenson. Mahtomedi was section team runner-up, losing 7-0 to No. 4 Mounds View. They were 10-7 overall.

GIRLS TRACK

Mahtomedi won five events and qualified for state in eight events in Section 4AA. The Zephyrs placed third behind Breck and DeLaSalle.

White Bear Lake was Section 4AAA runner-up and had two state qualifiers. Bear freshman Easton Fiddle was fourth with 74-41-145, and senior Jack Stanius ninth with 74-78-152. It will be Fiddle’s third trip to state and Stanius’ second. The Bears totaled 610 for second behind Cretin-Derham Hall (566). Magnus Benz was 11th (78-78-156) and Grady Giefer 13th (78-79157). The state tourney will be June 10-11 at Bunker Hills.

GIRLS TRACK

White Bear Lake placed fifth of 10 teams in the Suburban East with Bear throwers earning seven medals. In discus, Jinet Demanou placed third (11811), Karen Enow fifth (116-0), Savannah Severson sixth (106-3) and Emily Reeves seventh (103-10). In shot put, Enow was third (36-5), Pearl Niemioja seventh (34-4) and Demanou eighth (33-9 1/2). Amelia Nachtscheim, in just her second time running the 800, placed a close second in 2:19.11. Josie Mlejnek was

Fae J. Peltier

Age 92 of White Bear Lake went to her heavenly home on May 19,2025. Proceeded in death by husband Gerald “Pete” Peltier. Survived by daughters Pamela (William) Nordmark, Terri (Kevin) Nohner, Karen Starfield, Annette (Roger) Chamberlain & Susette (David) Carli; 11 grandchildren; 15 greatgrandchildren; sister Marian Meier and many nieces and nephews. Memorial Service was held at South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church on May 27, 2025.

Frederick J. Macalus, Sr.

a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 22nd, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on November 15th, 1935, to Salvatore and Guiseppina Macalus, he was the youngest of eight siblings. Fred’s remarkable journey began early; at just 12 years old, he started regrooving tires, which laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit. He went on to own seven Fred’s Tire and Service Companies and ten neighborhood bar restaurants, realizing his dream of building an empire. In addition to his business ventures, Fred had a passion for raising and racing pigeons. He was

Earning golds were senior Kaili Malvey in long jump (17-8) and triple jump (38-6); freshman Xiaobao Liang in the 200 dash (24.98); the 4x200 team (1:44.70) with Liang, Alicia Farrington, Allison Rippentrop, and Olivia Thiele; and the 4x400 team (4:08.31) with Thiele, Farrington, Elizabeth Driscoll and Rippentrop. The 4x100 team was second but qualified by standard (49.92) with Liang, senior Ella Frazier, Malvey and Thiele. Qualifying by placing second were Natalie Jackson in discus (100-8) and Adalyn Beulke in the 1600 (5:23.14). Elise Aflapki was third in 100 hurdles (16.16), Jackson was third in shot put (33-1) with Greta Siess fourth (31-1/2). Class 2A state will be Wednesday and Thursday at 9 a.m. at St. Michael-Albertville.

BOYS TRACK

Four Mahtomedi tracksters earned state trips at Section 4AA. Ericdarren Daafour, a sophomore, was their lone gold medalist with a 21-11 long jump. Evan Carion, senior, was second in the 800 (1:58.83). In high jump, junior Andrew Russell was second

second in high jump (5-0), Piper Heinsohn third in the 400 (59.62) and Lys-Aurele d’Almeida fifth in the 100 (12.62). The 4x100 team of Sophia Haley, d’Almeida, Grace Weierke, and Alyssa Hamlin took third in 49.35 and broke a 2018 school record.

TENNIS

The Bears’ 1- and 2-singles players, seniors Will Fleming and Andrew Kolenich, teamed up for doubles in the sectional. They beat a Stillwater team 6-0, 6-0 before a Mounds View duo stopped them 1-6, 6-4, 7-5. Fleming was 13-6 for the season and Kolenich 12-7. Colton Knutson in singles beat Stillwater and Columbia Heights foes, then lost to Brandon Pham of Mahtomedi. He finished 12-7.

BOYS LACROSSE

White Bear Lake won its Section 4 opener over Mounds View 16-8 Friday, led by Gavin Huot with seven goals and Wyatt Raleigh with four, and Griffin

Ramsey County Officer injured in moped accident

At around 6 p.m. Saturday, May 3, Ramsey County Public Information Officer Steve Linders was seriously injured while riding a moped with his wife, Nikki, after a driver unexpectedly pulled out in front of them.

Steve suffered multiple injuries, including a skull fracture in his occipital bone, a broken hip and swelling to his brain. Nikki did not suffer any injuries.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the Linders with medical expenses. You can donate at www.gofundme.com/f/support-steve-lindersroad-to-recovery.

a beloved icon in the world of broomball, known affectionately as “Mr. Broomball,” and was honored with induction into the Broomball Hall of Fame.

Fred’s life was rich with friendships and family ties. He took immense joy in guiding his loved ones through everything from business decisions to sports and daily activities. He lived life to the fullest and was always there for those who needed him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Survived by children, Karen (Rick) Kissner, Fred Jr (Gayle) Macalus, Debi (Jay) Andrews, Frank (Lori) Macalus, Tom (Alicia) Macalus; 20 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; brother, Frank Macalus; companion, Deb Johnson and her family; many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends. Preceded in death by his parents Salvatore and Guiseppina Macaluso; wife, MaryEllen; 2 brothers & 4 sisters.

Fred’s life will be celebrated with a service at 6 PM Wednesday, June 18th with a visitation beginning at 4 PM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake.

and senior Eliah McCormick third (qualifying by standard) behind Washington Tech’s Shawn Huberty. All three cleared 6-5. The Zephrys had enough depth to place second as a team behind DeLaSalle. Parker Mass, freshman, was third in the 1600 (4:31.0) and fifth in the 800 (2:04.03). The 4x400 team placed third (3:32.02) with Daafour, McCormick, Gavin Maas and Carion. Evan Miller and Owen Eigen tied for third in pole vault (9-11). Matthew Johnson was third in the 3200 (9:54.09). Ethan Bergland was fifth in triple jump (40-1)

BOYS GOLF

Mahtomedi senior Jacob Wilson placed third in the Section 4AAA tournament with 70-73-143 last week at Bunker Hills, advancing to state for the fourth time. He was third at state last year and 11th as a sophomore. The Zephyrs placed fourth with 617. Leo Miller shot 80-76-156, Thomas Meader 79-81-160, Tony Kurn 79-81160, and Malik Washington 80-81-161.

Ziccardi with 12 ground balls. The No. 3 Bears (9-4) faced No. 2 Hill-Murray on Monday, the winner advancing to the finals Thursday.

GIRL LACROSSE

White Bear Lake’s season ended with a 10-7 loss to Hill-Murray on Friday in Section 4. Scoring for the Bears (5-9) were Olivia Simpkins (two), Kylee Lehman, Rylan West, Cayla Helmberger, Carlie Griffin and Whitney Fleming.

GIRLS GOLF

White Bear Lake was Section 4AAA runner-up behind Mahtomedi with three state qualifiers at Goodrich in St. Paul. Bear junior Maddy Vang placed fourth with 83-83-166, senior Elaine Eddicus seventh with 86-87-173, and senior Bailey Eddicus eighth with 85-90-175, all advancing to state June 10-11 at Bunker Hills. Sydney Pfeil, senior, shot 91-87-178. The Bears totaled 692.

Upcoming Games

Freedom Day Festival to return in honor of Juneteenth

The city of Vadnais Heights and the Vadnais Heights Community Action Network have announced the return of the annual Freedom Day Festival. The festival, held in recognition and celebration of Juneteenth, will feature live music, free food, art, bouncy houses, games and other family-friendly activities.

The festival will also feature a pickup only auction, which will run until June 24. Winners will be announced and contacted shortly thereafter. Those interested in donating can do so at www.givebutter. com/c/freedomdayauction. To register online for a free meal ticket, visit www. tinyurl.com/mr3fw34z.

The festival will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at Kohler Meadows Park. The park is located at 365 County Road F East.

WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS | CONTRIBUTED

Students at Vadnais Heights Elementary laced up their shoes and headed outside for Run Club. They meet as a group twice a week throughout May, rain or shine, running or walking quarter-mile laps with friends. Students receive stamps to help track their distance for the day and they try to challenge themselves each week to collect more. Over 180 students and 10 staff members are members of Run Club, which began in 2016.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES

MAY 20, 2025

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:02 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega. Commissioner McGuire was absent. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

AGENDA of May 20, 2025 was presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of May 13, 2025 were presented for approval. Motion by JebensSingh, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Miller.

PROCLAMATION

Social Services – Proclamation: Mental Health Awareness Month. Presented by Commissioner Miller. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Sheriff’s Office – Joint Powers Agreement with Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for Participation in the Minnesota Anti-Heroin Task Force Program. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-093)

Sheriff’s Office – Amendment to the Agreement with Reiling Construction, Co., Inc., for Safety and Security Barriers in the Adult Detention Center. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-094)

Human Resources – Terms of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Law Enforcement Labor Services Local 184 – Deputy Sheriff Commanders for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-095)

Human Resources – Terms of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Ramsey County Deputy Sheriff’s Federation for the years 2025, 2026, and 2027. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-096)

Board of Commissioners – Support for Nominations to National Association of Counties 2025 Leadership Positions. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-097)

County Assessor’s Office – Amendment to the Minimum Assessment Agreement for the Ford Site TIF District #322. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-098)

PRESENTATION

County Manager’s Office – Presentation: Investing in the Workforce Update. For information and discussion only. Discussion can be found on archived video.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Presented by Commissioner Moran. Discussion can be found on archived video.

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

Presented by County Manager, Ling Becker. Discussion can be found on archived video.

OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

Discussion can be found on archived video.

BOARD CHAIR UPDATE

Presented by Chair Ortega. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT

Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:38 a.m. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 4, 2025. RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE

SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar as an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Section 331A.03 of the Minnesota Statutes. Individuals may go to the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” section of the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage at ramseycounty.us/ContractWithRamsey to access registration information. If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the DemandStar registration instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” webpage. Access to all Ramsey County documents is free if the instructions that are posted are followed. You may call 651-266-8072 or email ProcurementTeam@ ramseycounty.us if you need assistance. Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan

SOLICITATION: RFB-PRK27070-KB

OPENING DATE: JUNE 18, 2025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A CONTRACTOR TO FULLY REMOVE ALL EXISTING PAINT AND COATINGS FROM THE CEILING STRUCTURE OF ALDRICH ARENA AND PREPARE THE SURFACE FOR A FUTURE PAINTING APPLICATION. THIS INCLUDES STRIPPING ALL CEILING COMPONENTS TO BARE METAL USING APPROVED NON-CHEMICAL METHODS, AND ENSURING THE SURFACES MEET INDUSTRY STANDARDS FOR CLEANLINESS AND PROFILE. PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: 1850 WHITE BEAR AVENUE, MAPLEWOOD, MN 55119. JUNE 5, 2025, 3:00 PM CST.

SOLICITATION: RFB-PRMG34299-KB

OPENING DATE: JUNE 26, 2025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, SEEKS CONTACTORS TO FURNISH ALL SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, MATERIALS AND LABOR AND INCIDENTALS FOR THE INSTALLATION, MAINTENANCE, AND REPAIR

OF VARIOUS OVERHEAD GARAGE DOORS AND LOADING DOCK LEVELERS, AND PLATES AT VARIOUS RAMSEY COUNTY FACILITIES.

SOLICITATION:

RFB-PUBW29822-KB

OPENING DATE: 7/3/2025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A QUALIFIED CONTRACTOR TO PERFORM BITUMINOUS PAVEMENT RESURFACING, STORM SEWER IMPROVEMENTS, AND SIGNING & STRIPING.

SOLICITATION:

RFB-PRMG34435-KB

OPENING DATE: 6/26/25

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, SEEKS CONTRACTORS TO PROVIDE SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, MATERIAL, LABOR AND INCIDENTALS FOR COUNTY FACILITY AND OFFICE SPACE MOVING SERVICES, INCLUDING INSTALLATION, RECONFIGURATION, DECONSTRUCTION, STORAGE

SOLICITATION:

RFB-PUBW29934-KB

OPENING DATE: JUNE 18, 2025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS STATE PROJECT NO. S.P. 0282-47, SP 6281-53, SP 062-601-017, SP 062-659-020, SP 002-621-012, SP 002-654-005, SP 210-020-015 MINN PROJECT NO. STBG 6225 (160) BID OPENING WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18, 2025

Ramsey County will receive sealed electronic bids for Bid RFBPUBW29934-0-2025/KB, County Road J/I-35E Centerville Road to Otter Lake Road Construction Project until 2:00 PM, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, through DemandStar.com. Immediately thereafter, all bids will be opened publicly and read aloud via Zoom, https://tinyurl.com/RamseyCoZoomJune18BidOpening.

The project includes grading, bituminous and concrete paving, storm sewer, ADA improvements, lighting, TMS, retaining walls, high tension guardrail and Bridge No. 62948. Bidding documents, including the Bid Form, Drawings, and Specifications, will be available to be downloaded from DemandStar on our website at http:// www.demandstar.com. A bid bond in the amount of 5% is required. Minimum wage rates to be paid by the Contractors have been predetermined and are subject to the Work Hours Act of 1962, P.L. 87-581 and implementing regulations. All prospective Bidders/respondents are hereby cautioned not to contact any member of the Ramsey County Staff or officials other than the specified contact person in the Ramsey County Procurement Department in St. Paul.

Minimum wage rates to be paid by the Contractors have been predetermined and are subject to the Work Hours Act of 1962, P.L. 87-581 and implementing regulations.

READ CAREFULLY THE WAGE SCALES AND DIVISION A OF THE SPECIALPROVISIONS AS THEY AFFECT THIS/THESE PROJECT/PROJECTS

The Minnesota Department of Transportation hereby notifies all bidders: in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Act), as amended and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Subtitle A Part 21, Non-discrimination in Federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation, it will affirmatively assure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded maximum opportunity to participate and/or to submit bids in response to this invitation, and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, disability, age, religion, sex or national origin in consideration for an award; in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, and Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 230 Subpart A-Equal Employment Opportunity on Federal and Federal-Aid Construction Contracts (including supportive services), it will affirmatively assure increased participation of minority groups and disadvantaged persons and women in all phases of the highway construction industry, and that on any project constructed pursuant to this advertisement equal employment opportunity will be provided to all persons without regard to their race, color, disability, age, religion, sex or national origin; in accordance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act, Minnesota Statute 363A.08 Unfair discriminatory Practices, it will affirmatively assure that on any project constructed pursuant to this advertisement equal employment opportunity will be offered to all persons without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, disability, sexual orientation, or age; in accordance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act, Minnesota Statute 363A.36 Certificates of Compliance for Public Contracts, and 363A.37 Rules for Certificates of Compliance, it will assure that appropriate parties to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement possess valid Certificates of Compliance.

If you have employed more than 40 full-time employees in any state, on any single working day during the previous 12 months, you must have a compliance certificate issued by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights to bid on any job in this advertisement. Please contact the Department of Human Rights immediately if you need assistance in obtaining a certificate.

If you are not a current holder of a compliance certificate issued by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights and intend to bid on any job in this advertisement you must contact the Department of Human Rights immediately for assistance in obtaining a certificate.

The following notice from the Minnesota Department of Human Rights applies to all contractors:

“It is hereby agreed between the parties that Minnesota Statute, section 363A.36 and Minnesota Rules, parts 5000.3400 to 5000.3600 are incorporated into any contract between these parties based on this specification or any modification of it. A copy of Minnesota Statute 363A.36 and Minnesota Rules, parts 5000.3400 to 5000.3600 is available upon request from the contracting

agency.”

“It is hereby agreed between the parties that this agency will require affirmative action requirements be met by contractors in relation to Minnesota Statute 363A.36 and Minnesota Rules 5000.3600. Failure by a contractor to implement an affirmative action plan or make a good faith effort shall result in revocation of its certificate or revocation of the contract (Minnesota Statute 363A.36, Subd. 2 and 3).”

This Project has a Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) goal. Good Faith Effort to be subcontracted to Disadvantaged Business Enterprises. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 4, 2025. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-453 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of Allen R. Travaille, a/k/a Allen Richard Travaille, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on May 21, 2025 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated June 10, 2014 (“Will”) has been filed with the Probate Court, and the Amended Application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Laurel L. Skelly, 2946 Highcourte, Roseville MN 55113 as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. §524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power toadminister the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power tosell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator Date: May 22, 2025 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on May 28 and June 4, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-483

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of: Edmund John Raden, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 2:15 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated July 17, 2024 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Kyle S. Raden, whose address is 5500 Cedarwood St NE, Prior Lake, Minnesota 55372, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons

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Pull-Out Section

MANITOU

Schedule of Events

The

8:00 a.m. – Noon

• Children’s Fishing Contest

Virtual Pub Crawl

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

•

Classic & Vintage Boat Show

August 6th • 6:30 p.m.

members/$15 non-members

White Bear Lake Area Historical Society Register at www.whitebearhistory.org

a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

• Voting for Awards

11:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.   Food & Drink Options:

• Admiral D’s Grill 11am - 10pm

• Tally’s Dockside 11am - 9pm

• VFW Post 1782 11am - 1 am

• Alley Cats 11am - 10 pm

• Taco Johns 7am - 10 pm

• Kowalskis 6am - 10 pm

3:00 p.m.

• Awards presentation at Admiral D’s by Joe Soucheray

3:00-4:00 p.m.

• TEAR DOWN

Visit our charming downtown at 4th St. and Highway 61 and support our local businesses.

21-22

Ro 18th Annual White Bear Lake

Rotary Club of WBL Blood Drive

1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

White Bear Lake Armory

Progressive Community Garage Sale

8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Locations to be determined

Pickleball Mixer

8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Sunrise Park Middle School

Bear Boating Blood Drive

1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

fun day of tennis in White Bear Lake. Games & activities for all ages and abilities. Learn to play and meet the pros from the area. Free. wbltennis.org • Sponsored by USTA Northern

For an appointment, please visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code WBL Community Drive or call 1-800-RED CROSS Free. whitebearrotary.org • Sponsored by Rotary Club of WBL

Saturday, June 21, 2025 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

White Bear Lake Armory - 2228 4th Street, WBL

White Bear’s Notorious Gangsters

6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Virtual program • Register at whitebearhistory.org

Farmers Market

8:00 a.m. - Noon • Clark Ave. between 2

Look for information on Facebook, ads in local newspapers and flyers. https://www.facebook.com/events/606040326898105/ Free. • Sponsored by Community of Grace Lutheran Church

Play for intermediate to advance recreational play. Register www. grambush.com or 651-357-6109. Free. • Sponsored by Farmers Insurance - Grambush Agency.

Due to COVID-19, there is a higher demand for blood donations. For more information, visit www.redcross.org/giveblood.html Sponsored by Bear Boating of WBL & The American Red Cross

Join us to learn some gangster lingo while you hear the tales of Ma Barker, Alvin “Creepy” Karpis & Baby Face Nelson. Sponsored by White Bear Lake Area Historical Society

Every Friday through the end of October. Locally grown. We also offer Community Supported Agriculture. (CSA’s) 651-747-3650.

Tally-ho

Meet the Boats

Chris Craft

Rumpus

Joan II

Shell Lake

Larson

2nd

Nice Eh

Chris Craft

Made in the Shade

Meet the Boats

Shell Lake

Lollipop II

Aluma Craft

Owner: Paul Chapin

The Pipsqueak

NF-443

Wally Milosevitch

Owner: Tim Ernst Boat Year: mid 60s Make: Wally Milosevitch Length: 19' Width: 8' Engine(s): 302 Chev

Scotty H

Owner: Bear Boating

CALISOTA

White Bear Lake Fire Boat

Owner: White Bear Lake Fire Dept. Boat Year: 2024 Make: Connor Industries/ Stanley Boats Length: 26’ 10” Width: 8’2” Engine(s): Twin Outboard

Sunfish

Just For Kix

Dolphin

Cruisers Inc

Community event encourages outdoor activity

Estimated Ripening Time mid-June. Call after June 15th for harvest update. 15th

Estimated Ripening Time mid-June. Call after June 10th for harvest update.

Pick your own or picked for you. 651-429-7202

Estimated Ripening Time mid-June. Call after June Call after 15th for harvest update. Pick your own or picked for you. 651-429-7202

Above: Brothers George and Ray Arcand celebrate the successful acquisition of two bicycles during a raffle that was part of the recent Bears Explore Outdoors community event at Bald Eagle Regional Park.

Vacation in your own backyard

Experienced Pool Installers

COMING SOON STRAWBERRIES

SOON STRAWBERRIES

Paragon Pools is owned and operated by Mike Henry and has been operating for 34 years building quality swimming pools in the Twin Cities Metro area.

Estimated Ripening Time mid-June. Call after June 10th for harvest update.

Estimated Ripening Time mid-June. Call after June 15th for harvest update. 15th

Pick your own or picked for you. 651-429-7202

Estimated Ripening Time Ripening Time mid-June. Call after June 15th for harvest update. Pick your own or picked for you. 651-429-7202 PINE TREE Apple Orchard

We are based in Mahtomedi & Stillwater

North of White Bear Lake www.pinetreeappleorchard.com

North of White Bear Lake www.pinetreeappleorchard.com

Paragon Pools handles projects of any size. The owner is on-site for every job to help supervise and make sure everything is going according to plan. When you're thinking of installing a pool on your property, contact us, and we'll meet for a home consultation to discuss your needs and ideas.

Cleaning & Maintenance

We also provide weekly cleaning and maintenance including testing the water, balancing the chemicals and adjusting the salt count. Paragon Pools will also install spas inside or outside so you can stay warm throughout the year.

We install new pool replacement liners & replacement auto covers.

Mahtomedi district prepares for operating levy special election

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

A levy is for learning, and a bond is for building.

The Mahtomedi school district will likely ask voters to approve both questions, come November.

After more than a year of reviewing its options in an attempt to deal with distressing financial news, Mahtomedi School District 832 has started down the road toward asking for an increased operating levy this November.

The board unanimously authorized its administration to proceed with preparations for a November special election to increase its general education revenue by $575 per pupil for 2025-26.

For the past year, the district and school board have been reviewing options to address its operating budget needs. Although the current operating levy authorization won't expire for two years, the Mahtomedi district, along with school districts across the state, is already facing budget pressures.

Although the district's current operating levy expires in 2029, it cannot wait for a 2028 voter-approved question without significant budget cuts to staff and programs, as well as increases in class size.

Budget pressures are occurring despite responsible financial stewardship. The district's annual financial audit received its highest rating for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, and the district was awarded the Certificate of Excellence in financial reporting and transparency.

Inflation has led to an 11% increase for health insurance and a 25% increase in school bus transportation. Staffing costs, at 75% of the budget, increased to allow the district to remain competitive in retaining and hiring teachers in an era of workforce shortages. Substitute teacher costs have also increased due to inflation and

CITY BRIEF

White Bear Lake city budget recognized

usage. Partially funded legislative mandates such as the READ Act and unemployment insurance have put demands on already limited funds.

When the administration realized it was looking at a $2 million deficit for 2025-26, the district's financial team presented a multipart solution to cover that $2 million in the district's budget. First, the district reduced approximately $700,000 in the fiscal year 2025 budget. Then, the district applied for and received permission from the Commissioner of Education to run a three-year deficit in its operating capital reserve; negotiated a two-year contract extension with its bus transportation service provider for smaller annual increases; managed open enrollment to enhance funding without incurring additional costs; and restructured and refinanced the existing bond issue to mitigate the overall tax impact of a potential operating referendum and facilities referendum.

The estimated number of students in the district as of May 5 was 3,483. The addition of $575 per pupil would add an extra $2 million to the current operating levy. That is the amount of deficit the district has been facing for the current year and forecasts for next year.

Guiding principles for the use of the increase in the operating levy include maintaining class sizes, ensuring excellent academic programming and building financial stability.

During the spring of 2025, the district will begin informing the community of the operating referendum and of the facilities bond and continue with an informational campaign until election day. Voters will then ponder two questions — a levy for learning and a bond for building.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

The city of White Bear Lake has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its 2025 budget. The award represents a significant achievement by the city’s financial professionals and leadership, reflecting their commitment to meeting the highest principles of governmental budgeting.

To receive the award, the city had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well a government’s budget serves as: • a policy document

a financial plan

an operations guide

a communications device

Budget documents must be rated "proficient" in all

four categories, and in the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories, to receive the award. With over 1,700 participants in the budget awards program, the recognition places White Bear Lake among a distinguished group of governments setting the benchmark for excellence in budgeting across North America. The most recent recipients of the budget award are highlighted quarterly on the GFOA’s website www.gfoa.org.

LIABILITY DISCLAIMER INDEMNIFICATION:

The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.

ARMORY: Under construction

only one of the parapets needed extensive work.

hired a construction crew that took healthy brick from less visible parts of the building and moved them to the affected portions. The less visible parts were then filled in with a close match. Hanson expects construction to be finished on the restoration within the next couple of weeks. Hanson reported that the project had an unexpected blessing as well as an unexpected challenge. Initially, the restoration architect was most concerned with the armory’s castellated parapets, the ridged top corners of the front side. Once the project was underway,

Later, though, more extensive work was necessary because of water infiltration near the front door that caused the wall to bow outward.

“Fortunately, we were able to transfer things instead of just adding to the project,” Hanson said.

Now that the armory’s shell is fixed, the historical society’s next goal is updating utilities.

“Because of how the armory has been used in the past, it has three different air conditioning systems,” Hanson explained.

In addition to HVAC updates, plumbing and

mechanical systems will be updated as well. Doing so, Hanson said, will help the armory become more efficient and eco-friendly. The historical society will soon be raising funds for the endeavor. While Hanson expects partial funding from the state, area residents will ultimately have to decide if continuing to preserve the armory is a priority.

To donate to preservation of the White Bear Lake Armory, contact the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society at 651-407-5327 or office@ whitebearhistory.org.

FROM PAGE 1

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Passerby can access a QR code to learn what’s happening at the Armory.

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his

Frank Watson

Booze Brothers: Crafting moments, 1 sip at a time

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

If you’re someone looking to rediscover how to enjoy your alcohol, you might want to give Booze Brothers a try.

Booze Brothers is the brainchild of Forest Lake High School grad Jordan Oberholtzer, specializing in whiskey smoking kits, beer caramelizers and other accessories designed to embrace the joys of drinking and having a good time. “Being able to make that experience better is pretty rewarding,” says Oberholtzer, “but seeing how we’ve grown has been awesome.”

The company’s roots begin during Oberholtzer’s freshman year at St. Olaf College — a time marked by turbulence due to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I was at home, talking with my uncle, a big whiskey head. He was talking about how there’s no whiskey smoking kits out there that have everything included — the torch, wood, fuel and glasses, even. So I went, looked at it, and came up with this product based on how my grandpa used to smoke his whiskey glasses.”

That product became the first official development under the Booze Brothers brand: the Whiskey Woods Glass Smoking Kit, which features two drinking glasses, one shot glass, a torch, three different wood flavors and a hand-crafted baseboard piece to hold both the shot and drinking glass. Oberholtzer relied on a personal $2,000 investment and 50 sold units to launch the kit. After pitching it at the 2023 St. Olaf’s Ole Cup (the college’s

annual student entrepreneurial pitch competition), Oberholtzer secured a first-place prize of $10,000 and a motivational push to continue developing Booze Brothers.

Since its launch, the company has held tastings around the Twin Cities Metro Area, including Rustic Roots Winery in Scandia, Argyle Moose in Hugo and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Taste of Generosity in Minneapolis. Newly developed products include a beer caramelizer, butane torch and refill tins with hickory, oak and alder woods.

The company includes executive advisors Andrew Tjernlund, Anita Messal and Bridget Conzemius.

“He’s been my business mentor for

Over 200 high schools will participate in direct admissions this fall

This fall, 245 high schools from across the state, including White Bear Lake Area High School and the White Bear Lake Alternative Learning Center, will participate in the Minnesota Office of Higher Education’s (OHE) Direct Admissions Minnesota Program. This represents an increase of over 60 schools from the 2024-25 school year.

The program, participation in which is optional for schools, reimagines the college application process. Each fall, students at participating high schools receive a personalized letter of Minnesota colleges and universities that are offering them proactive admissions based on their academic record. Students are then able to select the college that fits them best and complete their application knowing they will be accepted. The program also waives application fees, removing a financial barrier for those considering college.

“With Direct Admissions, we’re removing the anxiety and cost of applying to college,” OHE Commissioner Dennis Olson said. “Our goal is for every student in the state to see themselves as college material, whether that’s a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, certificate or diploma. I am ecstatic to see more high schools joining the program this fall and hope every student at these schools participates in the program.”

Since the program was established by the Minnesota Legislature in 2021, Direct Admissions has continued to grow each year. The first year had 31 participating high schools and 11,931 eligible students. During 2025-26 academic year, which is the fourth year of the program, there will be 245 participating high schools and over 37,000 eligible students. Participating schools are located all over the state, with an almost 50% representation for both the metro and Greater Minnesota.

OHE Staff will launch an online portal this fall to streamline the experience for students and improve data collection and reporting. Another change this fall includes expanding the mentor program, which pairs veteran schools who have participated before with new schools participating for the first time. For more information, visit www.ohe.state.mn.us.

Minnesota Office of Higher Education

four years now,” said Oberholtzer of Tjernlund. “He’s awesome, has tons of experience in e-commerce and owns multiple brands.” Oberholtzer’s dad, Brian, carves the company’s signature baseboard pieces from his home woodshop.

From an enterprise perspective, Oberholtzer admits that growing his brand is not without difficulties. Mostly, he says, this is based on comparing in-person sales to social media follows.

“From a business standpoint, the better one would be the in-person events, where people get to try it. They know it enhances the flavor of their drink, and they enjoy and buy it. On social media, however, we can get 2,000 views on one video, and it’s like, ‘Okay, maybe one sale,’ whereas in person, 10 people see it and there’s a sale. The conversion ratio is much better when

RICE CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT BRIEFS

Rice Creek Watershed District receives water storage grant

The Rice Creek Watershed District is one of six local governments to receive funding from the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR). The BWSR is awarding approximately $3.1 million in water quality and storage program grants for work that improves water quality and helps make landscapes more resilient to severe weather events.

The Minnesota Legislature passed bipartisan legislation in 2021 allocating $2 million to BWSR to develop a water storage program to address these challenges. Last fall, the program received $21 million in regional conservation partnership program support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service.

More information about BWSR’s water storage program can be found online at bwsr.state.mn.us/ water-storage-and-climate-resilience.

BUSINESS BRIEF

North Star Medical brings nonsurgical pain relief to

White Bear Lake

North Star Medical recently opened the doors of its new clinic in White Bear Lake, offering a revolutionary approach to pain relief through cutting-edge, noninvasive therapies. The clinic is located at 1330 Hwy 96 E, Suite 102.

North Star Medical integrates the latest advancements in healing to deliver personalized, holistic treatments that target the root causes of pain. Among the services offered are enriched plasma injections, hyaluronic acid injections, trigger point and ultrasound-guided joint injections, specialized physical rehabilitation

people are able to see the product. The brand awareness is much higher, but the sales aren’t there.”

In the wider view of the craft service industry, Oberholtzer remains hopeful to keep up with its evolution. Most of this, he says, comes from its postpandemic boom. “The trends are huge! Halfway through COVID is when I came up with this. Whiskey glass smoking was hardly existent. Within the last five years, it’s absolutely blown up. You see all these accounts on TikTok that are copying each other with the glass smoking kits. That’s why we came up with the beer caramelizer about three years after the kit. We saw a different brand doing something similar, and we’re like, ‘Oh, that’s a great idea!’ so we went out and made our own. Right now, that would be the trend that we’re trying to jump on. We’re always ready for whatever there is to come.”

Booze Brothers will host a Whiskey Woods tasting at the Minnesotan in White Bear Lake on Thursday, June 12, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. They will also appear on select days at Rustic Roots Winery throughout the summer. Oberholtzer says an appearance at White Bear Lake’s Manitou Days festival is in the planning stages, though it has yet to be confirmed. To learn more about Booze Brothers and shop for their products, visit their website at www.shopboozebrothers. com.

Staff Writer Erik Suchy can be reached at 651-407-1229 or lowdownnews@ presspubs.com

Watershed district hosts shoreline maintenance workshop

The Rice Creek Watershed District (RCWD) will host a shoreline maintenance workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. June 9 at White Bear Lake Lions Park, 4410 Lake Ave. S. Designers from Metro Blooms Design+Build will cover the importance of restoring native plants to shorelines and the impact it has on water quality and native habitat. Staff members from RCWD will be on hand to share about the site and the importance of native aquatic and emergent vegetation in a restoration. Participants will receive a resilient shorelines workbook and access to an accompanying online learning series. Registration fees for residents within the watershed district will be waived. To register, or find out if you live within the district, visit https://bluethumb.org/event/planting-forclean-water-shorelines.

treatment plans, neurologic-based chiropractic care, spinal and knee decompression and more.

North Star Medical assists individuals dealing with a variety of conditions including headaches, migraines, knee and joint pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, back pain, neuropathy, autoimmune disorders, disc injuries, car accidents, sports injuries and ligament injuries.

The goal of North Star’s team is to help patients achieve lasting relief from pain using safe, nonaddictive and effective treatment alternatives to medications and surgery. For more information, visit www.northstarmedicalmn.com or call 763999-4340.

Forest Lake High School grad Jordan Oberholtzer is the founder of Booze Brothers, which offers products designed to enhance customer’s drinking experiences.

PHOTOS BY ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The Whiskey Woods Glass Smoking Kit is Booze Brother’s signature product, featuring drinking glasses, wood flavors and more.

resume, transcr ipts and three le tters of recommendation to KMS Public schools at www.kms.k12.mn.us through Fr ontline applitrack

MIDD LE SCHOOL SPEC IAL ED PARAPROFESSIONAL Annandale Public Schoo ls 6.5 hours per day 17 1 days per year Middle School (Grades 6-8) Sa lary range $16.15-$23.85. Apply: Applitrack.com/isd876/online PUBLIC WORKS ASSISTANT Pembina ND. The PW Asst is the secondary person responsible for maintenance & repair of the City water, sewer systems, streets, & City properties FT hourly position starting at $24/hr DOE. Wage increas es for obtaining required certs. Benefits include paid sick le ave-vacation-10 paid holida ys/yr, medica l insurance stipend. For info or to fill out application, call 701/825-6819 or email pcityoffice@polarcomm.com

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Base + Commission

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GreenGuard Construction is hiring Sales Representatives to help homeowners with roofing and siding solutions—no experience required.

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• Base pay + commission for every closed job

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What You’ll Need:

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Bears roll into state softball tourney

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Two months ago, White Bear Lake softball had a 3-5 record. This week, the Bears are playing in the state tournament.

“We used that as fuel and fire,” said pitcher Lilly Martin about the rocky start. “We called (the season) our Revenge Tour. We’ve only lost one game since then, to Forest Lake.”

The Bears went 4-0 in Section 4AAAA, capped by a 5-3 conquest of top-seeded Stillwater, their 11th straight win, in the finals at University of Northwestern.

Before that, they eked out 2-1 wins over Tartan, Mounds View, and Woodbury (nine innings), relying heavily on Martin, who allowed just 15 hits and six runs in 30 innings, striking out 43.

The Bears will open at state against Farmington in North Mankato on Thursday at 10 a.m. The other pairings are Forest Lake (the top seed) vs. Edina, Brainerd vs. Bloomington Jefferson, and Eagan vs. Champlin Park. Action concludes Saturday.

Stillwater roughed up Martin in the first inning with three runs on three

hits. “Stillwater has good hitters,” Martin said. “If you don’t spot the ball right, they’ll hit it hard.” She spotted well after that, blanking the Ponies the rest of the way.

The Bears took the lead with three big swings of the bat — a two-run triple by Teagan Kotzmacher up the rightcenter alley in the second, and two-run double by Martin up the left-center gap in the fourth followed by Lauren Elias’ triple over the right-fielder.

“It helps to get the bats going,” said coach Jill Renneke.They didn’t have many in the first three rounds.

Tartan’s Leah Borgwardt blanked the Bears until the seventh when Kendall Kotzmacher blasted a line drive over the center field fence after a single by Maddy Belisle. Against Mounds View and Kate Tretter, the Bears runs scored on passed ball ball and bases-loaded walk. Against Woodbury and Kate Rapp, they loaded the bases in the ninth on a walk, error, and intentional walk, and Elias scored on a ground ball. The Kotzmacher siblings got the first run as Teagan singled, stole second and scored on Kendall’s single.

“They never give up. They keep battling,” Renneke assessed.

Bears get 2 walk-off playoff wins, lose to Raiders

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Walk-off, gamewinning hits by Blake Eckerle and Owen Farrington gave White Bear Lake a 2-0 start in the Section 4AAAA baseball, before topseeded Cretin-Derham Hall foiled the No. 2 Bears 8-2 on Friday at Northwestern in Roseville.

The Bears (15-7) had an elimination game Monday. If they won, they would meet the Raiders in the finals Wednesday at 5 p.m.

The Bears nipped Roseville Area 6-5 in the eighth inning on singles by Isaiah Weber, Tyler Allshouse and Eckerle with one out. Roseville tied the game 5-5 on Spencer Barta’s two-run homer in the seventh. Eckerle was 3-for-5 with two RBI’s

and struck out 13 in 6 1/3 innings on the mound. Miles Oklobzija finished.

Jackson Kolb threw a five-hitter with three strikeouts as the Bears beat Stillwater 3-2. In the last of the seventh, Allhouse singled and churned around the bases, beating the throw home with a head-first slide, when Farrington ripped a double down the left-

Zephyr golfers win section 3rd straight year

The Mahtomedi girls golf team captured its third consecutive Section 4AAA championship, led by medalist Regan Juhl.

The Zephyrs had rounds of 338 and 327 for a 665 total, with White Bear Lake (692) and Stillwater (693) second and third. They’ll play at state June 10-11 at Bunker Hills.

Juhl, a sophomore, led the field with 76-75-151, five strokes ahead of runner-up Addison Schinka of Stillwater. Zephyr junior Lexie McGrane placed third, 82-79-161, and senior Audrey Carlson fifth, 86-85-171.

Following were junior Lily Carlson 94-88-182, senior Alayna Bartylla 97-92189, and senior Indra Ramaley 96-98-194.

“They have been together for years; two of them are sisters,” coach Matt Huss said. “They are a very close group with a team-first attitude. It has been a real joy to watch them develop as players, students and people.”

The Zephyrs will try improve on last year’s eighth-place finish at state.

“Minnesota has some really great players and teams,” Huss said, “so we are going to celebrate the season by competing to the best of our abilities.”

Bears send 14 to state track meet

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake will have nine girls and five boys in the Class 3A state track meet on Tuesday at 9 a.m., and Thursday at 3:30 p.m. at  St. Michael-Albertville. Both teams placed second behind Stillwater at Section 4AAA.

Jinet Demanou was the Bear girls lone champion, in discus, with a 126-7 throw. Karen Enow was third in shot put (39-0) and Pearl Niemioja fourth (37-8), each qualifying by standard. Enow just missed in discus at third with 116-0.

Placing second to qualify were Khloe Pankonien, long jump (16-3 1/2); Josie Mlejnek, high jump (5-2); Amelia Ahrens, 100 hurdles (16.16); Lys-Aurele d’Almeida, 100 dash (12.47); Amelia Nachtscheim, 800 run (2:16.91); and Naadiya Charpenter, pole vault (9-10)

Placing fourth were Ahrens in 300 hurdles (49.84); Logan Bailey in 1600 (5:28.90); Alyssa Hamlin in 200 (26.15); Pankonien in triple jump (347); Grace Conroy in long jump (15-11); and Arianna Minor in high jump (4-9). Placing fifth were Mlejnek in pole vault (8-10); Demanou in shot put (32-1.5) and Brynn Heinshohn in the 800 (2:24.04).

Bear junior Tomi Animasaun qualified in three events with second-place finishes in the 100 dash

(10.89), 300 hurdles (39.35) and long jump (21-7).

The Bears had two boys champions: senior Vaughn Larson in the 1600 with 4:21.60, and senior Tyrese Behnken in 110 hurdles with 14.83. Placing second were Matthew Hunter in discus (161-7) and senior Isaac Kolstad in the 800 (1:57.97). Placing third were Behnken, 200 dash (22.97); Larson, 3200 run (9:26.46), and Malik Doumbia, long jump (20-9). Nate Asiedu-Mensah was fourth in the 200 (22.08).

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

field line.   Cretin-Derham Hall (19-4) tripped the Bears with Blake Bullis throwing five scoreless innings and Davon Castro and Joe Fenlon each stroking a two-run single. Evan Newlander, first of three Bear pitchers, took the loss. Eckerle tripled and scored on Kevin Zollinger’s sac fly, and Isaiah Weber had an RBI double.

CONTRIBUTED

The Section 4AAAA champion White Bear Lake Bears.

BRUCE STRAND | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Bear teammates rushed to celebrate with Owen Farrington (hoisted) after his game-winning double against Stillwater.

BRUCE STRAND | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Karen Enow is a state qualifier in shot put.

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What have those Mahtomedi students

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Throughout the year, the Mahtomedi School District holds the Zephyr Learning Showcase to show what students districtwide have been learning. Here are the May 12 showcase highlights.

Did you know that this past March, 128 moons were discovered around Saturn?

Black holes are super dense objects where gravity is so strong that not even light can escape. Did you know that, too?

O. H. Anderson Wit & Wisdom third graders Isla Cardoso, Teddy Herman, Katherine Jackson, Everett Kirtz, Peter Roche and Cecelia Zdon, along with their teachers, Gina Loosbruck, Ali Voit and Alexa Gibson, provided the community with some fun facts and riddles about astronomy.

By the way, what did Mars say to Earth? Answer: Give me some space! When learning about the science of reading, students can soon learn about science itself, as second graders at Wildwood Elementary have done through the University of Florida Literacy Initiative (UFLI).

Teachers Christine Simmet and Greta Ebner, along with students Whitney Domin, Luke Lawson, Maeve Sievers and Clara Naylor, gave the public some food for thought with their reports on books about nutrition and the digestive system. The books tell us about how we can get sick and how we can stay healthy; the six parts of the body that food goes through; that all living things need water; and that there is a juice in

your stomach strong enough to dissolve meat, and more.

Board Chair Ryan Domin, whose daughter participated at the UFLI table, said it was good to see how the literacy initative the district started just a couple of years ago has changed the science and comprehension of reading.

If an elementary school offers just the right activity to keep restless kids in their chairs, it is the Wildwood Elementary School Running Club. "It's good to get kids out and burning up lots of elementary energy," said Board Vice Chair/Clerk Kelly Reagan.

The club, "run" by teacher Sarah Torborg and 12 other coaches like Joe Pendleton, has had participation from 191 Wildwood Elementary students throughout the year, who run around school each day. Their track might be the halls inside the school or around the outside of the school building. "We just run," said second grader Otto Ryan, who covered the booth for absent classmates Dottie Hawkinson and Camden Kenny. The club also offers gym activities to keep the kids moving.

On average, the runners have run 32.46 miles in six months. Ryan has run 25 miles and hopes to run a marathon. There is a very good chance that the high school students presenting their new class, Workplace Communications, will be hired immediately. Students

Bjorn Anderson (grade 11), Ruby Grinstead (Class of 2025) and Frankie Lombardi (Class of 2025) shared what they learned from a new class they took at Mahtomedi High School this year that was taught by Katie Bailey and Sarah Lorntson.

Their class focuses on business communications at several levels, whether lateral (worker to co-worker), downward (boss to employee) or upward (employee to boss).

Visitors to their table were invited to ask Anderson and Grinstead about resume writing, mock interviews or STAR Interview questions, guest speakers, internal communications and external communications.

"Workplace Communications is a new class the district offered this year," said Board Chair Stacey Stout. "I was very impressed and super happy that we have this class."

Sammy Wallace, Enrichment and Adult Coordinator for Mahtomedi Community Education, organized the April 11 Mahtomedi High School Career, Internship and Volunteer Fair, in which 30 businesses and organizations took part. Also participating were 400 students, along with 25 volunteers to review resumes and help students

practice networking skills.

Visitors were invited to ask Wallace about the goals of a career, internship and volunteer fair; how organizers chose which careers to represent; companies or organization to include; what types of professionals or organizations participated; strategies teachers used to engage their students in the event; and feedback received from students and teachers following the event.

Stout said she attended this first fair of its kind in the district on April 11. "I think this is the first of many; I witnessed so much energy." Board Director Drew Whitson said it was good to see participation from local and national firms, such as Delta Airlines.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651407-1200.

Mahtomedi student learns from tragedy and inspires local action

BY ALICE SEUFFERT SPECIAL TO PRESS

Lāhainā is almost 4,000 miles away from Mahtomedi. The distance feels especially long as you glance at the weather app and see Mahtomedi’s temp is -15F, while the city in Maui, Hawaii, is a sunny 80F degrees every day at the same time.

In 2023, Lāhainā experienced devastating wildfires. Watching thousands of miles away and thinking about ways to help from a distance was Mahtomedi High School (MHS) junior Ali Lum.  Lum is part Hawaiian, and seeing the tragedy of the fires inspired her to take local action. She started a club at MHS to help her peers not only understand the importance of Hawaiian culture but also be a part of keeping the Hawaiian culture alive. So, during the 202324 school year, Mahtomedi Hawaiian Culture Club was born.  The club encourages students to join to gain ‘ike kūhohonu (deep knowledge) about the Hawaiian culture. Ali organizes monthly meetings that start with research about that month’s topic and presents it in a Google Slide Deck and later in

graphics on Instagram.

After learning about the importance and cultural connection of the topic, the group then engages in the topic, which in the past has included playing ukuleles, constructing candy and flower leis, and making lauhala weave bracelets. The group also does cooking activities that include making mochi and SPAM musubi.

“The Hawaiian Culture Club’s main principle is to remind everyone that we are the keiki o ka 'āina (the children of the land), no matter where one’s from,” Lum said. “Even if you’ve never stepped foot in Hawai’i, we, as a Mahtomedi Community, can all experience the beauty of the Hawaiian culture through the enduring foods, traditions and language of the 50th state.”

At MHS, students have a daily 35-minute period called flex time. Students can choose from a variety of options to fill that time, including academic, support and wellness activities. They can attend special interest area gatherings and club meetings. Having flex during the day allows students to engage in more opportunities to explore their passions and interests instead of

only participating in these activities before or after school. The flex sessions offer many new clubs at MHS the opportunity to develop, including Hawaiian Culture Club.

“Flex gives me and my peers time in the school day to explore and express our interests through the diverse number of clubs at MHS,” Lum said.

Lum’s strong interests include not only participating in the Hawaiian

Hula (hālau) dancing group, Kaleiokapilialoha in Minnesota, but also returning to Hawai’i every summer to volunteer and support local communities. The flex opportunity has also opened up another path for her to explore leveraging her strengths to make a beneficial impact on others, Youth in Government. Through the program, she’s attended annual conferences, getting hands-on experi-

ence in how government operates in Minnesota and learning new ways to make an impact in her community. The flex time supports students to explore their passions and interests and helps further shape who they are and who they want to become in the future.

Lum’s vision for the Hawaiian Culture Club is to continue to allow for Hawaiian culture’s deeper meaning to be displayed:

that the aloha (meaning hello, love, friendship, etc.) of Hawaii is taught to her peers. After graduation, she hopes to attend college and further her involvement in Hawaiian culture while also meeting and connecting with other individuals to learn about their different experiences and backgrounds.

Alice Seuffert is the director of communications for Mahtomedi Public Schools.

Second grader Otto Ryan talks about the Run Club at Wildwood Elementary.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Students Ruby Grinstead (Class of 2025) and Bjorn Anderson (grade 11) share workplace communications, what they learned from a new class.

MAHTOMEDI PUBLIC SCHOOLS | CONTRIBUTED

Mahtomedi High School junior Ali Lum started the Hawaiian Culture Club.

From refugee to resident: 50 years of Hmong immigration

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

2025 is a significant year for the Hmong population in Minnesota. Specifically, it marks the 50th anniversary of Hmong refugee resettlement and immigration to the state. Many who resettled found their home in Vadnais Heights; according to the 2020 census, approximately 9% of the city’s population comprises those of Asian origin.

Chip Yang, who has lived in Vadnais Heights for almost 30 years, describes integrating into the city as akin to a “culture shock”.

“In the early ’90s, I don’t even think there was a big Hmong population overall in Vadnais Heights and in the school district. I remember going to school on my first day and thinking, ‘Oh, there’s no Hmong kids.’ As I went through the stages of a typical school, you could start to see more Hmong students in middle and high school. In my neighborhood, I could start to see that there were more Hmong families moving into the Vadnais Heights area.”

While Yang admits that Vadnais Heights integration was initially surprising, he says it posed no challenges for him personally. This was in stark contrast with his parents, who were still trying to build their lives after immigrating.

“I would say that the majority of the Hmong families, even at that time, were still building their lives. My parents were still trying to build their life and a future for the kids. I would say that the struggle wasn’t particularly for us as kids but for our parents trying to find that right footing and set a road map for us for the future.”

Lee Pao Xiong, director of the Center for Hmong Studies at Concordia University, notes that Hmong immigrants commonly faced these struggles in the later 20th century. “When the Hmong came to the United States, many of them came with just the clothes on their back. They relied on public assistance or living in public housing. In the early 1980s, many of them went through education and obtained jobs; by then, they were not qualified to live in public housing anymore. Many of them transitioned into suburbs.”

The McDonough Housing Project in St. Paul, Xiong notes, served as a transition for Hmong immigrants as they relocated from the city to the suburbs. “It was natural for many of them to gravitate toward Vadnais

Heights and some of the smaller suburbs,” said Xiong. “Now, there are close to 2,000 Asians living in Vadnais Heights, predominantly Hmong, because a lot of the Vietnamese and the Lao end up in the western suburbs.”

According to Tong Vang, president of the board of the SGU Veterans and Families of USA Inc., similar struggles befell soldiers who came to the country after fighting in the Secret War during the Vietnam War. “The first thing they learned after looking for public housing was to apply for disability.”

The organization, established by Hmong veterans of the Secret War as a nonprofit, provides services and social and emotional support to veterans, widows and

their families. “With veterans, we try to promote and help them become more self-sufficient,” said Vang. “We still have at least 400 to 500 in Minnesota who have a lot of mental problems. We want to help them become understanding about the system and help them find better benefits with the state.”

To learn more about the Special Guerrilla Units (SGU) Veterans and Families of USA, visit its website at www.sguveterans.org.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email at vadnaisheightsnews@presspubs.com.

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