City rescinds fire station bond resolution
BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
VADNAIS HEIGHTS – After concerted public resistance, the Vadnais Heights City Council has rescinded its resolution to issue $33.3 million in capital improvement (CIP) bonds to fund a new fire station.
The background: The city has proposed a full replacement of its south fire station, and a transition of its north fire station to a public works facility. In past city council meetings, city officials have stated that the south fire station does not meet the equipment, health and safety needs for its current staffing model, and that a full rebuild is the optimal solution.
When citizens took a closer look at the numbers, they saw that the city would end up paying up to $54.5 million in combined principal and interest, which the city planned to repay with a series of increasing property tax hikes over the life of the bond. Many citizens were concerned that this would put untenable financial burden on neighborhood households.
Under state statute, citizens were allowed 30 days to collect signatures from eligible voters to overturn the city’s decision to use this bond funding strategy. Vadnais Heights citizens rose to the occasion and collected more than 1,900 signatures. The petition was submitted to the city clerk on June 15.
The June 16 city council meeting became a forum for discussion on the matter, with residents asking for better transparency from the city and more
SEE FIRE STATION, PAGE 13
Summer season water safety message
Eric Sullivan, a supervisor with the Minnesota DNR’s statewide marine unit, presented a water safety message recently near the boat launch at White Bear Lake County Park to help kick off the summer season on area lakes and rivers. The use of properly fitting life jackets, exercising courtesy and patience at boat launches and resisting the temptation to operate a boat under the influence of alcohol were among the list of safety and informational tips he shared during the press conference.
Student encourages graduates to embrace change, remember roots
The following speech was given by Ruby Stembridge, Class of 2026 student speaker at the Mahtomedi High School commencement ceremony. Stembridge plans to study international business at Loyola University Chicago.
I have attended Mahtomedi my entire life. Whether you’ve been a student here since kindergarten or just transferred this year, there’s one scenario that I can say with relative confidence almost all of us have lived through.
“How do you pronounce the name of your town?”
“It’s Mah-toh-mee-dye”
“Oh, Mahtomedi? What’s your mascot?”
“A Zephyr.”
“WHAT on EARTH is a Zephyr!?”
Now, I have always felt a sort of pride for our niche little mascot. It’s not something popular or flashy, like the “tigers” or “gladiator,” something that automatically evokes fear in your opponents. When I explain what a Zephyr is to a relative, a coach from another school, or anyone I’ve seen in public wearing a Mahtomedi hoodie, people are usually a little confused.
“The…god of the…breeze?” Honestly, I don’t mind. They don't have to understand what it is or why it’s important.
A Zephyr is a soft, steady wind. Not a storm or something destructive. A Zephyr is something consistent. The soft, steady wind shows up and carries things from one place to another, even if we don’t always notice it happening. And the truth is, most of the time, we don’t.
Someone unexpected making your day with a smile and a hello in the hallway. Everyone going to support their peers in the State Tournament games. The Jazz Band cheering you up in the darkest days of winter by playing a rendition of Jingle Bells during lunch. We have found ways big, small, public, and private to be the soft, steady wind for one another, helping carry each other along.
If you know me, you know I can manage school. I can handle essays, standardized tests, and presentations, but one thing I have never been able to handle is change, no matter how small. So, the idea of graduation—of everything changing all at once— feels too big to wrap my head around. It terrifies me. And I know I’m not the only one. When I look
Stembridge
Liberty Classical Academy’s yearbook program has achieved the Jostens National Yearbook Program of Excellence 2026 Award at the bronze level. The National Yearbook Program of Excellence recognizes engaging yearbooks that reflect a broad representation of the student body while helping students to develop 21st century skills such as communication, collaboration, and information and communication technologies literacy.
Liberty Classical Academy’s yearbook program is led by Kendall Carr, Judson Louis, Hannah Parnell, JC Peterson, Caleb Schmidt and Jax Triana under the direction of Yearbook Adviser Desiree Sams.
“Winning a bronze award is an exciting achievement for our yearbook team. This award
celebrates more than a yearbook — it celebrates the voices, memories and experiences of our students,” Sams said. “The yearbook team had a vision this year and it was not only to create a yearbook, but also a publication that will be remembered and treasured for years to come."
Jostens’ National Yearbook Program of Excellence Awards are presented twice a year, in the spring and fall, based on the yearbook’s arrival date at the school. The award was presented to the Liberty Classical Academy’s yearbook program for achieving defined criteria in following categories: creating an inclusive yearbook, generating school engagement and successfully managing the yearbook creation process.
CONTRIBUTED
Jostens recently recognized Liberty Classical Academy’s yearbook program.
POLITICAL BRIEF
District 1 commissioner invites constituents to picnic
Ramsey County District 1 Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh invites community members to the District One Community Picnic from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, July 9, at Snail Lake County Park.
This event will bring together neighbors from Arden Hills, Mounds View, Shoreview, Vadnais Heights, Gem Lake, North Oaks, White Bear Township and parts of Blaine and Spring Lake Park. It will be an opportunity to share updates, showcase county and community resources, and strengthen relationships between constituents and county government.
The event is family-friendly. Food and beverages will be provided and the park is accessible. Registration is preferred, but not required. You can register at 651-266-8362 or tara.jebenssingh@ ramseycountymn.gov.
GUIDED WALKING TOUR OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 24
Where: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 4th Street
Details: Guided walking tour of downtown White Bear Lake highlighting the history of the buildings, businesses, and organizations that make this community unique. Registration required. Contact: whitebearhistory.org
WHITE BEAR LAKE CONSERVATION DISTRICT LAKE CLEAN-UP
When: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, June 27
Where: White Bear Lake and shoreline
Details: Community members are invited to get out on the Lake in a watercraft or walk along a public shoreline to pick up trash. Participants encouraged to take a photo of the trash they collect and tag WBLCD on social media or email it to wblcd25@ gmail.com.
Contact: 651-429-8520
ARTISAN AND VENDOR FAIR
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 27
Where: Mariner Middle School, 3551 McKnight Road Details: 100+ Minnesota crafters, makers, boutiques, and vendors.
Contact: sunriseeventsandcraftshows.com
MANITOU TRIATHLON
When: 8:30 a.m. Sunday, June 28
Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Ave.
Details: Early season triathlon offers a distance option for every level. Post race barbecue and awards. Registration information online. Contact: mmraces.com/manitou-tri
KEEGANS 5K FOR CRANIOSYNOSTOSIS AWARENESS
When: 9 a.m. Sunday, June 28
Where: West Park, 2350 11th Street
Details: Noncompetitive 5K run/walk along the lake organized by local family, with proceeds benefiting Cranio Care Bears.
Contact: sites.google.com/site/ keegans5kforcranioawareness
GIRL SCOUTS SUMMER ROBOT FUN
When: 3-4 p.m. Sunday, June 28
Where: Hanifl Fields Athletic Park, 7032 137th St. N., Hugo
Details: Girls in grades K-3 can build a robot and try out a new Girl Scout troop in the White Bear Lake/ Hugo area.
Contact: forms.gle/YepMmHospoKzejCT8 or 651-3031584
BIRCHWOOD MUSIC IN THE PARK
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 28
Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park, Birchwood
Details: Acoustic trio Folk Revival covers classic folk, country and pop artists from the 50's to the 70's. Free; bring a lawn chair or blanket. If rain, concert at Birchwood City Hall. Contact: cityofbirchwood.com
BINGO
When: 1:30-3 p.m. Monday, June 29
Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, community room
Details: Afternoon of Bingo and socializing. Prize donations accepted. Registration not required. Contact: 651-407-2018 or communityed.mahtomedi. k12.mn.us
COMEDI IN MAHTOMEDI
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 2
Where: Dugout Bar, 96 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi
Details: Monthly stand-up show hosted by local comedian and promoter Nate Hood. Food and beverages available for purchase. Contact: 651-440-9128
WHITE BEAR LAKE BOAT PARADE
When: 1 p.m. Friday, July 4
Where: Mahtomedi Beach, 1045 Park Ave., Mahtomedi
Details: Decorate your boat, play patriotic music and cruise the shoreline with family and friends in celebration of community and country in the annual Fourth of July boat parade.
Contact: Facebook.com: White Bear Lake Boat Parade or angela@redseaglass.com
FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS
When: 8-11 p.m. Friday, July 4
Where: Memorial Beach, 4980 Lake Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Shoreview Northern Lights Variety Band performs in West Park, followed by a flyover of the WWII North American AT-6 at 8:30 p.m. and a fireworks display at 10 p.m.
Contact: manitoudays.com
ONGOING EVENTS
WHITE BEAR LAKE FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Fridays
Where: Clark Avenue, between Second Street and Third Street
Details: A tradition since the 1970s, the farmers market features more than 50 vendors.
Contact: whitebearlake.org or 651-429-8526
MARKETFEST
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake
Details: Community summer festival with over 200 food and vendor booths, live music, car show, kids activities, specials at local merchants.
DONUTS AND COFFEE WITH THE WBLPD
When: 8:30-10 a.m. Friday, June 26
Where: White Bear Lake Farmers Market Details: Stop by to visit with officers and ask questions.
Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov/publicsafety/ page/donuts-and-coffee-wblpd
MIDWEST SKI OTTERS SHOWS
When: 6 p.m. Sundays through end of August
Where: Little Goose Lake, 4150 Hoffman Road, White Bear Lake
Details: The Ski Otters are celebrating 30 years on Goose Lake. Enjoy a fully scripted, narrated, costumed production of “Otter Time Fitness.” Watch the crazy antics of our water ski fitness gym trying to keep up with technology. Fun for the entire family. Bleacher seating available or feel free to bring a chair. Contact: skiotter.com/contact
Don’t
ship out the post office
Since the first Continental Congress in 1775, Americans have placed a high value on a robust postal delivery network. The Founding Fathers wanted to ensure that citizens of the new country had access to vital information through the mail.
Article I, Section 8, Clause 7 of the Constitution authorizes Congress to establish Post Offices and post roads. Over time, this mandate evolved into the principle that every citizen, regardless of where they reside, should have access to postal services.
Stangl’s Angle
Tom Stangl
This concept, known as the Universal Service Obligation (USO), has been a boon to rural America over the past 150 years and is now considered one of the reasons the postal service is in dire financial straits.
Free mail delivery arrived in cities in 1863, but it wasn’t until 1896 that rural Americans began receiving it. Within a year, 44 routes were underway in 29 states. The service proved enormously popular and was declared permanent in 1902. The number of rural carriers climbed from fewer than 500 in 1899 to more than 32,000 by 1905. In the same period, the miles covered by carriers jumped from 28,685 to 721,237.
Improved roads and mail-order catalogs were the main benefits of rural delivery. Parcel post service was added in 1913.
In 1970, legislation set the parameters of the Postal Service’s universal service obligation, requiring it to provide prompt, reliable, affordable, and efficient postal services to all Americans, regardless of where they live. Legislation in 2006 and 2022 refined funding for the postal service, making it dependent on revenues from the products it provides. Prepayment for retirement benefits was also clarified.
The Postal Regulatory Commission estimated the cost of the USO at $6.1 billion in fiscal year 2022, while the value of the letter and mailbox monopolies was only $3.3 billion — resulting in a net financial burden on the Postal Service of $1.22 billion, even before broader losses are considered.
Some believed that delivering packages would be the postal service’s salvation. In 2007, shipping and packages accounted for roughly 14% of total USPS operating revenue; by 2025, that share had grown to roughly 40%. Over the same period, First-Class Mail’s share of revenue fell from nearly 49% to roughly 32%.
USPS delivered 7.3 billion packages in 2024, handling the largest share of any single carrier at 30.8% of domestic package volume — though that share is in long-term decline, down 28.4% from 2017 to 2024 as Amazon Logistics and others have expanded competing networks.
Visit the post office on any given morning and watch the carriers load package after package into their vehicles. The volume on some days is truly incredible. I maintain that the postal service is in a “no-win” situation. Their most profitable business – first-class mail – is being eroded by declining delivery. Delivery, in my opinion, is being reduced by packages. The postal service is trying to please two masters: mail and parcels, and is not making either happy.
When afternoon pickups of mail outside a 50-mile radius of processing plants were implemented last month, package pickups continued. The postal service has chosen parcels over mail, and those of us, like this newspaper, who depend on the mail for delivery will need to live with declining delivery standards and increasing prices.
I wonder what Ben Franklin, the first postmaster general, would think of this situation.
As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress.com, by telephone at 715-268-8101, or by writing to P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001.
Tom Stangl is Publisher of the Amery Free Press
Creating something unique together
The following speech was given by Superintendent Barb Duffrin at the Mahtomedi High School commencement ceremony.
Class of 2026, today we celebrate you—not only for your achievements, but for the way you've led, served others, and strengthened your community.
You built that community together, and you were supported by many along the way. And as you confidently step forward to shape your future, I want to share some insight that was shared with me about what will truly be your greatest asset in a rapidly changing world.
Movers & Shakers
Barb Duffrin
The overwhelming consensus from a Dessert and Dialogue session this spring points to a lesson worth carrying with you long after graduation: the qualities that make us human are what will set us apart in an age of AI.
Many of the human competencies brought forth in the conversation are embedded in the Mahtomedi Portrait of a Graduate: integrity, collaboration, empathy, and leadership. In fact, as technology and AI become more powerful, these distinctly human qualities become even more important.
So I encourage you not to lose your commitment to creating
something unique together.
Graduates, please continue to lean into your collective brilliance and humor and resist the temptation of the AI "easy button.”
It is true that the world will continue to reward faster answers and greater efficiency. But it will also always need people willing to do the harder work of thinking for themselves, creating something meaningful, and building genuine connections with others.
And when I think of you, the Class of 2026, I think of those very qualities.
I think of the one among you who, on the way to school, pulled over to help a community member you didn’t know who had hit a deer and suffered a flat tire. You stopped, changed the tire, and helped him get back on the road. You arrived at school late, but a grateful Mr. Pearson emailed a note to Mr. Hahn that said in part, "Acts like this are increasingly rare, especially from someone so young."
That's not a skill measured by a test score. That's character.
I think of you as a class that understands leadership isn't about going it alone. You have consistently used your talents not just to succeed yourselves, but to help others succeed as well. In doing so, you've made your school community stronger.
Seven of you served on the Superintendent’s Student Cabinet. You worked together with your peers to influence district and building practices, most notably improving the existing career fair, and successfully implementing a
new college fair at the high school for the next school year, which was a direct response to consistent student requests.
A dedicated team of you pulled together to create something that captures the school year in pictures, words, and spirit that your classmates will look back on for years to come. You, the students in the Advanced Yearbook course, worked tirelessly to create, design, edit, and market the annual yearbook. And once again, you secured the National Award of Excellence for your work.
Graduates, your collaborative efforts were not just local. The leaders of the Mahtomedi Human Rights Club demonstrated what it means to be active, global citizens. Through student-led drives and advocacy letter writing, you helped meet real needs. You modeled what it means to lead with empathy and to strengthen community by supporting one another.
Those examples may look different on the surface, but they all reflect the same values: initiative, collaboration, and care for others. Those are human qualities that will matter wherever life takes you next.
So keep using your talents and bring out the strengths in others. There are many ways your Mahtomedi education has prepared you, but what comes next is yours to shape.
Congratulations, graduates, stay in touch, and go, Zephyrs!
Barb Duffrin is the superintendent of Mahtomedi Public Schools.
Committed to financial integrity
I served on the White Bear Lake Area School Board from 2003 through 2015 and for the majority of those 13 years I served as board treasurer. In that role I worked directly with a finance department defined by professionalism and led by staff with a core interest in reestablishing and then retaining the community’s trust following the financial challenges faced by the school district in the 1990’s.
Beginning in 2000, in an effort to illustrate the district’s commitment to financial integrity, the finance department pursued the annual ASBO Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting and the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. Receiving these awards affirms that an independent third-party has recognized the integrity and professionalism of the recipient. The White Bear Lake Area School District community should find comfort in the fact that the district’s finance department has received both of these awards for 26 consecutive years beginning in 2000 and continuing through today.
In addition to the tradition of financial reporting excellence, the finance department continues its longstanding tradition of solid results with the annual state auditing process. In a presentation to the school board this past January, the district’s independent auditor concluded the following: 1) the number of audit findings for our district is common for school districts; 2) the district has not repeated the same findings in consecutive years (meaning the issues were addressed and fixed); 3) that he has great confidence in our finance department.
I encourage anyone with questions or concerns about the school district’s financial management to reach out to finance department staff or review any of the annual independent auditor reports. These days, it has become too easy to use social media to seek quick “answers,” which often end up being only part of the story or a twisted version of reality. I know first-hand that managing a school district’s finances is extremely complex. Given that, obtaining thorough answers to questions regarding our district’s financial management will not be found in the world of social media.
Chris Hiniker White Bear Township
Let the voters decide on financing
Last week, more than 1,900 Vadnais Heights residents filed a petition with the city under Minnesota Statutes section 475.521, asking that the financing for the new fire station be decided by the voters rather than approved by council resolution. The signatures filled 396 pages, more than three times the number state law requires.
Our position is simple, and it does not depend on the project's design or its price tag: a capital investment of this size, roughly $54.5 million in total cost over 21 years, belongs on a public ballot. Real transparency, the kind the city itself has called for, means a few concrete things. Public information about a project this large should show the full, longterm cost to taxpayers, the total repaid over the life of the bonds including interest, and what it means for a typical home, not just the smallest first-year number. Public dollars and city staff should inform residents with neutral, accurate facts, not campaign for an outcome. And a decision this large should be made in the open, on a ballot, by the people who will pay for it. We are not arguing the merits of a new fire station. Our first responders deserve a good facility, and the city deserves responsible financing to pay for it. We are simply asking that the residents who will pay the bill have the final say, with the full cost in front of them. Whatever plan the city brings forward, we ask the council to commit to putting the financing on the ballot. It is the most transparent path, and the least costly one, for everyone.
The petition, the city's own financial report, and the numbers behind it are posted at letvhvote.com.
Erick Hamness Vadnais Heights
Restored faith in humanity
Friday, June 12 was a beautiful day for a walk along the walking/biking path along White Bear Lake. However, things changed quickly for me as I was distracted by my phone, tripped and went flying into the path. The many good Samaritans that stopped to help were amazing. I was bleeding from my forehead, had some “road rash” on my nose and hands and my ankle hurt. Everyone driving, biking and walking stopped to help me. A wonderful woman named Deborah (from Maplewood) gave me a ride home. After a trip to Urgent Care, I am recovering with a few Steri-strips on my forehead and a walking boot which I need to wear for a month. My faith in humanity was certainly renewed with all the people who were willing to help.
Sheila Frye White Bear Lake
Red is the new yellow
As some of us old time drivers like me know, a yellow light means caution, slow down and prepare to stop. The last few years, after the COVID isolation reframed driving habits, as it was an open road and a racetrack during that time, red now means “punch it.” I commute 70 miles a day throughout the Twin Cities, and I am used to this new behavior, where a green light now means “look both ways,” instead of just proceeding. However, in all the communities that I drive through, I have never seen so much blatant disregard for the red light that I have seen on Highway 61 through downtown White Bear Lake. Just for kicks and giggles, after checking out at a store on 5th & 61, I watched for 10 minutes, the intersection of 7th St. and 61. Every light change, seriously, every, had at least two, if not three cars, blow through the red light. So, I am asking, where are the White Bear Lake police? Didn’t we (sorry, not me as I live in the township) spend money on fancy lights to detect this type of behavior? Obviously, it doesn’t work if there is not a police cruiser there watching. Based on my observation at that one intersection, it could be quite a fundraiser for the city. Most importantly, it could save lives. Hwy 96 and 61 being the most tragic example last week.
When philanthropy isn’t philanthropic
Minnesota’s charitable sector raises an important question: who truly benefits from philanthropy?
While all taxpayers can receive deductions for eligible charitable contributions, wealthy individuals and corporations have tools to preserve wealth and influence across generations. The costs to taxpayers can be significant and growing.
When assets are transferred into a foundation, governments lose potential tax revenue. Depending on the donor’s circumstances, taxpayers subsidize a significant portion of the contribution through income, capital gains, estate, or property tax benefits. Yet private foundations are generally required to distribute only 5 percent annually. The remainder is under foundation control indefinitely, contributing to the concentration of wealth and power and undermining equal opportunity for low- and middleincome people.
The initial hit to the tax base may be only the beginning. Foundations incur legal, staffing, office, and administrative expenses. If property is acquired, it may be removed from local tax rolls for generations. Much foundation activity occurs outside public view, and enforcement is often inadequate.
One example involves site visits, travel expenses, and other administrative costs that may be classified as charitable expenditures. A large grant commitment may not reflect the amount actually reaching recipients. While legal, such practices can mislead the public and obscure self-dealing.
Supporters point to jobs created, programs funded, and housing built. Those achievements matter. But taxpayers should also ask: at what cost?
Public agencies must account for administrative
expenses and program effectiveness. Similar scrutiny should apply to tax-advantaged philanthropic institutions. By the time tax revenues are forgone, professional fees paid, infrastructure financed, boards compensated, and grants pass through multiple organizations, how much of the original subsidy benefits the public?
Affordable housing, for instance, is critical. However, foundations and many nonprofit intermediaries do not routinely disclose the full chain of administrative costs associated with housing projects. Taxpayers often cannot determine how much subsidized capital ultimately reaches housing production and resident services. This system can discourage innovation and diminish incentives for cost effectiveness.
Minnesota’s new ethnic studies mandate
Starting in 2026, every K-12 school in Minnesota will be required to teach ethnic studies as a new emphasis of social studies. Everyone agrees the real history of America should be taught to all students. But Minnesota’s divisive ethnic studies law forces teachers to analyze race and racism in ways that are divisive and harmful to all students.
Passed by the 2023 Minnesota Legislature, ethnic studies includes three standards: identity, resistance and ways of knowing and methodologies. Initially this was presented as developing cultural understanding, but the academic focus has shifted toward protest and social activism.
Our students need to be educated in the fundamental principles of reading, writing and arithmetic. Academic scores have fallen, and focus should be to bring all students to the highest levels of achievement. There may be more students graduating, but can they even read at an 8th grade level?
It’s time for all parents and grandparents to question what is being taught to our students. Their education should not be encouraging participation in political protests. Are students being directed toward political mobilization rather than critical inquiry?
For example, from the ethnic studies benchmarks:
1. Kindergartners must “retell a story about an unfair experience that conveys a power imbalance.”
2. First graders must “identify examples of ethnicity, equality, liberation and systems of power” and “construct meanings for those terms.”
3. Fourth graders must “identify the processes and impacts of colonization and examine how discrimination and the oppression of various racial and ethnic groups have produced resistance movements.”
Every K-12 school in Minnesota will be required to teach this content in fall of 2026. Check out the full set of standards for yourself and see the things that are not being required to be taught (that is another letter). Our children are to be educated in our schools not indoctrinated.
Mark Waldoch White Bear Township
Bonnie Balach White Bear Lake
Linda Demeny White Bear Lake
COPS&COURTS
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
A noise complaint was reported in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road June 10.
• Officers executed a search warrant in the 4100 block of Bellaire Avenue June 10.
• A woman trespassing on private property in the 2500 block of Jansen Avenue was given a courtesy ride to another location June 10.
• Fraud was reported in the 4500 block of Lake Avenue June 10.
• Officers responded to a dispute in the 1800 block of County Road E June 10.
• Juvenile incidents were reported near the intersection of Commerce Court and Commerce Blvd. June 10.
• Multiple dog owners were advised to leash their dogs at Matoska Park June 10, 12, 14.
• A woman, 50, with no permanent address was arrested for 4 active warrants following a call about an unwanted person in the 2300 block of County Road F June 10.
• Disorderly conduct was reported June 10 in the 1700 block of Birch Lake Avenue.
• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 1600 block of Ninth Street June 11.
• A person reported missing June 11 in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road was later found unharmed.
• Officers responded to a complaint of cats wandering around outside of their owner’s yard June 11 in the 2100 block of County Road E.
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Grant
• A report of shots being fired May 17 from the 8000 block of 80th Street N. turned out to be legal shotgun target practice. After Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of someone burning plastic bins in the 8000 block of 60th Street N. May 18, they advised the individual to stop.
• Residents in the 6000 block of Jocelyn Road N. on May 19 reported theft by swindle.
• A suspicious male reported being on the property of a recent house fire in the 10000 block of 60th Street N. on May 22 turned out to be an Xcel Energy employee locating the gas meter.
• Residents in the 10000 block of Jody Avenue N. asked deputies to remove two guests at 11:24 p.m. May 22. After deputies spoke to the guests, they advised deputies they would be gone by morning, and the property owner agreed to this solution.
• A resident in the 11000 block of Ironwood Avenue N. reported hearing her doorbell ring off mysteriously at 11:27 p.m. May 22.
Mahtomedi
• Deputies issued multiple citations May 14 to a motorist on Century Avenue and I-694 following a traffic stop for hands-free phone use violation. Another motorist was cited May 16 on Long Lake Road for instruction permit violation. A Minnesota motorist was cited May 16 on Mahtomedi Avenue and Stillwater Road for driving without a driver’s license.
• A Hidden Oaks Court resident reported finding a sweatshirt with items inside on May 17. Deputies found an ID and billfold inside the sweatshirt and dropped the items off at the house of their owner.
• Deputies were dispatched out to a report of juveniles knocking on windows, pulling on doors and running around a Stillwater Road property May 18. They caught the juveniles in the act and advised them against that behavior in future with a strong request to apologize to the workers inside.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road June 11.
• A dispute was reported in the 4700 block of Highway 61 June 11.
• A noise complaint was reported in the 5000 block of Division Avenue June 11.
• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 2400 block of Floral Drive June 12.
• A noise complaint was reported in the 3100 block of Karth Road June 12.
• Theft was reported in the 2100 block of Orchard Lane June 12.
• A St, Paul man was arrested for an active gross misdemeanor DWI warrant following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and Elm Street June 12.
• Officers responded to a noise complaining and mediated a dispute in the 3500 block of Century Avenue June 12.
• Fraud was reported in the 4000 block of White Bear Avenue June 13.
• Officers assisted North St. Paul police with an arrest in the 2700 block of South Avenue June 13.
• Officers investigated an order for protection violation in the 4700 block of Centerville Road June 13.
• A juvenile was reported missing in the 2100 block of Orchard Road June 13.
• A male was trespassed from a business in the 4600 block of Centerville Road June 13.
• Officers responded to noise complaints in the 3100 block of Karth Road and the 4800 block of Stewart Avenue June 13.
• A Wildwood Road landlord on May 18 reported a tenant for harassing her for the past several weeks. Deputies advised the complainant to let management know about the behavior and advised her about the process of obtaining a Harassment Restraining Order.
• Deputies arrested a motorist at 1:52 a.m. May 19 on Warner Avenue S. and Stillwater Road, following a traffic stop. Extra patrols will be conducted on Quail Street following a May 19 complaint of loud bass noise occurring regularly at 6:45 a.m. when the offending vehicle arrives and again at 10:00 p.m. when the same vehicle leaves.
• Property damage to the bathroom at Southwest Park was reported May 20 due to a homeless person sleeping inside it.
Pine Springs
A motorist taking a video call while driving along Highway 36 at Hilton Trail N. on May 14 was cited for that offense.
Willernie
• Deputies cited a motorist May 16 for stop sign violation, instruction permit violation and failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for ignoring the stop sign at Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N. and displaying expired temporary registration.
• A driver’s license and credit cards were reported taken from a vehicle parked on Stillwater Road May 18. The items may or may not have been stolen, as no fraudulent activity was detected on any of the complainant’s accounts. The accounts were canceled and new cards ordered.
• A motorist was cited for speeding May 20 on Long Lake Road. A second motorist was cited for expired registration May 20 on East Avenue and Dahlia Street. A third motorist was cited May 20 on Century Avenue and Wildwood Road for no proof of insurance following a traffic stop for hands-free violation.
• A suspicious male reported for rummaging through a vehicle on Mahtomedi Avenue at 10:02 p.m. May 21 turned out to be the vehicle’s owner retrieving a few items before taking the vehicle into the shop for maintenance.
• The pay box to purchase permits at Matoska Park was pried open June 14, but it is unknown if any money was missing. A fishing complaint was reported at Ramsey County Beach June 14.
• Officers responded to a fight between family members in the 3500 block of McKnight Road June 14.
• Officers responded to a report of barking dogs in the area of Seventh Street and Dillon Road June 15.
• A Hugo man was arrested June 15 for outstanding warrant on Fifth Street.
• Officers mediated a dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road June 15.
• A dispute over parking was reported June 15 in the 4700 block of Carolyn Lane.
• Vandalism was reported June 15 in the 3800 block of Linden Avenue.
• A search warrant was executed in the 2400 block of Ronald Avenue June 16.
• A missing person in the 1300 block of Birch Lake Blvd. June 16 was later found.
• A noise complaint was reported June 16 in the 1700 block of Fair Oaks Drive.
• An animal complaint was reported in the 2300 block of Dorothy Avenue.
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested following a traffic stop in the 2600 block of County Road E June 16 after he was discovered to have multiple felony warrants.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3600 block of Highway 61 June 17.
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
• On June 7, deputies issued trespass notices and citations to a 59-year-old woman and a 35-year-old man from Brooklyn Park for theft and giving a police officer a false name. They were caught attempting to leave Walmart without paying for nearly $415 worth of merchandise.
• After making a traffic stop for unsafe driving on June 7 on the on-ramp to I-694 from Highway 61, deputies arrested a 22-year-old man from Rush City for DWI after he performed poorly on standard field sobriety tests.
• A 36-year-old man from Monticello reported June 8 that he suspects his ex-wife of using his AT&T account without his knowledge or permission, costing him more than $3,000. The matter is under investigation.
• Deputies arrested a 29-year-old man from Roseville June 8 at the intersection of E. County Road E and Arcade Street for making threats of violence after responding to a report of a road-rage incident during which he allegedly threatened to shoot another driver in the Walmart parking lot. A 79-year-old man from New Brighton reported that someone broke into his storage unit and stole a Yamaha scooter on June 9 in the 1400 block of Paul Kirkwold Drive. The matter is under investigation.
• On June 10 in the 3200 block of Highway 61,
deputies arrested a 31-yearold man from North St. Paul for receiving stolen property. After deputies made a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle, they found a firearm in the glovebox, a stolen iPad next to the center console, and exhaust pipes in the trunk. On June 13 at the intersection of I-694 and I-35E, deputies assisted the Minnesota State Patrol in stopping a wrong-way driver by performing a PIT maneuver on the vehicle, so troopers could arrest a 64-year-old man from Canada. Deputies had the man perform field sobriety tests.
White Bear Township
• On June 8 in the 2600 block of Bartylla Court, a couple in their 70s reported finding a small hole in their home’s window. The matter is under investigation.
• On June 9 at the intersection of E. County Road J and County Road J southbound to I-35E, a 27-year-old man reported that someone stole power tools out of his work trailer by cutting through the side of it. The incident is under investigation.
On June 10, a 67-year-old man from Hugo reported that someone driving a silver Toyota Sienna and making an illegal U-turn in the Cub Foods parking lot struck and damaged his vehicle before driving away without exchanging information. The incident is under investigation.
• On June 13 in the 5000 block of Otter Lake Road, a 75-year-old man reported that someone stole the rear license plate off his Ford Explorer. The matter is under investigation.
A name restored in Scandia cold case Investigators identify ‘Bone Lake Jane Doe’
BY MATT ANDERSON COUNTRY MESSENGER EDITOR
After 33 years, “Bone Lake Jane Doe” finally has her name back.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office announced June 11 that the remains connected to a decades-long cold case belong to Denise Elaine Sexton Hartley, a 27-year-old Ohio woman who disappeared in 1993. Hartley’s identification marks a major breakthrough in one of the county's most notable cold cases, but the work to determine what happened to her is ongoing.
The case dates back to June 12, 1993, when a local resident walking near Bone Lake found what was initially believed to be the head of a mannequin floating by the shoreline. Local authorities later determined it was the head of a young woman. The next day, a severed foot was found near Pig’s Eye Lake in St. Paul.
Despite years of investigative efforts, the victim known only as “Bone Lake Jane Doe” could not be identified, and the case went cold for more than 30 years.
But a partnership between the Washington County Sheriff’s Department and the nonprofit DNA Doe Project changed the course of the investigation.
The DNA Doe Project is a volunteer organization that uses genetic genealogy to identify the remains of individuals like Hartley. According to Detective Clayton Evens, who took over the case in 2024, the partnership with DNA Doe Project was critical to identifying Hartley more than three decades later.
“I really want to give a big shout-out to them,” Evens said. “They're a completely fundraised program. All of their hours are volunteer hours. And they're really responsible for where we're at today.”
The partnership between the DNA Doe Project and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office began in 2022. When fundraising goals were met to identify the remains, the nonprofit initially attempted to extract DNA from the foot that was found near Pig’s Eye Lake. That effort proved unsuccessful.
However, in 2024, a second attempt was made to recover DNA from the victim’s head, which was a success.
Using genealogy databases, the DNA Doe Project traced Hartley’s relatives back to a second cousin and built a family tree from that point. As they mapped the family, one particular detail stood out.
“They started doing a bunch of digging on the family and realized out of all these 15 children that one of them had been missing since '93,” Evens said. “That obviously points to Denise.”
After that discovery, Evens
Brothers plead guilty in armed cryptocurrency kidnapping case
The Garcia brothers have pleaded guilty in connection with their roles in a September 2025 armed robbery of a family in Grant and the theft of more than $8 million in digital assets.
Isiah Angelo Garcia, 25, and Raymond Christian Garcia, 24, both of Waller, Texas, have entered guilty pleas to one count each of interference with commerce by robbery.
and other investigators traveled to Columbus, Ohio, where they met with Hartley’s family and collected a DNA sample from her daughter, Nicole. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension later confirmed the match through DNA analysis, establishing that the former “Bone Lake Jane Doe” was Hartley.
"It was a sigh of relief that we were finally able to, after 30plus years, identify her remains and put a name to her and then follow up with the family to really give them closure at the same time," Evens said.
According to Evens, Hartley’s family never stopped searching for her. They continued to post information about her disappearance on social media, which helped investigators in their search for answers.
“They absolutely did not give up,” Evens said. “It really showed that we were going in the right direction. The dates match up, the family matches up. This is probably the person who's been missing that we have.”
Evens recalled the moment he told Harley’s daughter in person, saying the news was overwhelming for her and the rest of the family.
“We told her who we were, why we were there, and I think she was just in so much shock and awe to finally have that closure,” Evens said. “It was just really hard for her to take it all in at the time.”
Since then, investigators have determined that Hartley moved from Ohio to the Twin Cities area in the early 1990s.
According to Evens, she traveled to Minnesota to live with her sisters, who were already living there, and was attempting to rebuild her life after some legal troubles.
“It appeared she was really trying to get her life back on track,” Evens said.
Now that Hartley has been identified, Evens and his team are working to reconstruct her final months to determine what happened to
her. He said investigators are interviewing friends, family and acquaintances of Hartley to map out a timeline of when she came to Minnesota, where she lived and who she associated with before her death. Evens said her identification marks a major turning point for the investigation as a whole.
"When you don't have friends and family to talk to, you really don't have a lot to go off on," Evens said. "Now that she's been identified, it really opens up the book on what we can do."
However, significant challenges remain. Because of the time that’s passed since Hartley’s death, some people investigators would like to interview have since died. And others who are still alive may struggle to remember important details from more than 30 years ago.
Still, investigators are seeking any information that may be critical to solving the next piece of the case. They’re encouraging anyone who knew Hartley in Minnesota or Ohio to contact them, emphasizing that no piece of information is insignificant.
“Even if you're just the slightest acquaintance, it doesn't hurt to have a fiveminute conversation,” Evens said. “They might know more information than they think they do, or maybe they have a very small piece of information that hasn't come up from anybody else.”
While Hartley’s identification was a key piece of the investigation that has been solved, the cause of her death is still unresolved. No arrests have been made, but investigators are continuing to search for answers and hope the public will come forward with any information they might have to help close a case that has remained open since 1993. Anyone with information about Hartley or the investigation is encouraged to contact the Washington County Sheriff's Office tip line at 651430-7850.
According to court documents, on the morning of Sept. 19, 2025, the Garcia brothers, who had traveled from Texas to Minnesota for the purpose of executing the scheme, kidnapped Victim 1 and his family at gunpoint at their home. During the offense, the defendants demanded access to the victim’s cryptocurrency accounts, zip-tied Victim 1 and his family, and held the family at gunpoint for over eight hours. Isiah Garcia, aided and abetted by his brother, abducted Victim 1 to the family’s cabin in northern Minnesota, where he forced Victim 1 to retrieve additional cryptocurrency storage devices and transfer the funds contained therein.
The Garcia brothers ultimately forced Victim 1 to transfer more than $8 million in cryptocurrency funds in the course of the scheme. After the victim’s son called 911, the Garcias fled the area. Law enforcement responded to the family home, where they found numerous items left behind by the defendants. Law enforcement then used those items to identify the Garcias and locate them near Houston, Texas, where they were arrested. In their guilty pleas, both defendants admitted to using firearms to threaten the victims and facilitate the robbery. They agreed to pay over $8 million in restitution and each face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled at a later date.
“Violent schemes carried out for financial gain undermine the safety and security of our communities. When individuals resort to intimidation and force, they can expect a swift and unified law enforcement response. The guilty pleas entered today reflect our commitment to holding the defendants accountable for the choices they made,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“No one should ever feel unsafe in their own home," said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. "The kinds of violence and greed displayed by Raymond and Isiah Garcia will always be aggressively investigated by the FBI and our law enforcement partners. Thanks to the seamless partnership between the FBI, Washington County Sheriff's Office, and state and local law enforcement agencies from here to Texas, these defendants will now face sentencing in federal court. Home invasions, kidnapping, and robberies carry lasting impacts on victims and our communities. We hope this conviction will bring some measure of peace to the victims of this horrendous crime.”
“This crime struck close to home for many people in our area. It shook not only the victims involved, but it disrupted lives, created fear, and left residents wondering how something so violent could happen here. I’m proud of the work done by our investigators, deputies, law enforcement partners, and prosecutors who helped move this case forward. (These) proceedings mark an important step toward accountability and justice for our community,” said Washington County Sheriff Dan Starry. United States Attorney’s Office
CONTRIBUTED
Denise Hartley, pictured with her daughter Nicole, was recently identified as the woman known for decades as “Bone Lake Jane Doe.” The breakthrough came through a partnership between Washington County investigators and the DNA Doe Project, which used genetic genealogy to restore Hartley's identity after 33 years.
Local sports announcer Kirk Possehl comments on 2026 Special Olympics USA Games gig
BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER
After 39 years as a sports announcer for NHL, minor-league baseball and University of Minnesota games, Lino Lakes resident Kirk Possehl is preparing for what he considers to be the apex of his career: announcing track and field events for the 2026 Special Olympics USA games. Special Olympics games mainly consist of individual or team sports with athletes who have intellectual disabilities.
While this is Possehl’s first time announcing for Special Olympics USA, Possehl has been volunteering for Special Olympics Minnesota for the past 27 years. The reason he keeps coming back, he said, is because of the people involved.
“I’ve been honored to be in that tightknit group,” Possehl said, adding that he has stayed in touch with many of the athletes, sometimes for decades. “Two of the athletes I met back in 1999 … their nicknames are Batman and Robin. I still meet with them once
a quarter, and we still have lunch. They’re still involved (with Special Olympics) as well.” Special Olympics Minnesota, likewise, is honored the have Possehl in that tight-knit group.
“(Possehl) is a very passionate and connected volunteer,” said Special Olympics Minnesota Vice President of Development Relations Mark Anderson. “He is so connected, involved for so many years, that athletes recognize his voice, and they recognize him personally … Kirk has turned into a friend of special athletes across the state.”
Possehl stated that his involvement with the organization has changed his life for the better. “These people, they want to be treated like regular people. They don’t want to be glad-handed and all that,” Possehl said.
Anderson agreed, adding that Special Olympics is much more competitive than the general public may assume. “They think we’re just out here having a good time, giving out hugs and high fives,” he said. “A good time absolutely comes from it, but it
is a competitive event. Athletes train for months.” Anderson explained that Special Olympics Minnesota athletes have run marathons, hit holes-inone and play basketball at a level that catches the attention of college coaches.
Volunteering for Special Olympics Minnesota, meanwhile, is much less intense. “For all of our event roles, no experience is needed,” said Special Olympics Minnesota Vice President of Marketing and Communications Katie Howlett. “One of the event roles for our summer games is a timer for track and field … We’ll give you a free T-Shirt. All you need to wear are some comfy, close-toed shoes, and we’ll teach you the rest.”
If a person just wants to attend the Special Olympics as a spectator, Possehl asserted that the games are just as exciting to watch as any live sporting event. “If our major league sports—Vikings, Twins, Timberwolves—had the same mentality and the same drive that Special Olympians had, we would be world champions every year.”
When attending the games that Possehl is announcing, spectators will see many traditional tack-andfield events as well as some that have been adapted for participants. “Shot put may turn into a tennis ball or a
softball throw,” Possehl gave as an example.
Some of those adapted events are the ones Possehl finds most inspirational. Ten years ago, Possehl commented on an event called the 10-meter assisted walk. “These people are in wheelchairs, walkers, canes, anything like that,” Possehl explained. “If they fall, and (someone assists) them up, they’re disqualified.” One participant, a wheelchair user, was using a walker and fell, scraping his chin, knees and elbows. When the first aid team came to help, the athlete kicked them away.
“He put that walker back up on its feet, and he crawled up that walker using his upper body. He stood up and finished the race,” Possehl said. “When he crossed that finish line, he had a smile from New York to L.A. … That’s how 27 years goes by in a heartbeat.”
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games take place June 20-26 at the National Sports Center in Blaine. For more information, visit 2026specialolympicsusagames.org/ visit-the-games.
To learn how you can become a volunteer for Special Olympics Minnesota, visit specialolympicsminnesota.org/getinvolved.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Kirk Possehl has been a sports announcer for Special Olympics Minnesota for 27 years. He will announce track and field events for the national games beginning June 20.
FINANCIAL PLANNING Household budget,
BY SHIVAM VASHISHTHA CONTRIBUTING WRITER
2026 Classic and Vintage Boat Show award winners
Robert Engstrom won
with his 2012
Michael Pelietier won
motorboat/runabout category with his 1961 Skee-Craft
Brent Reibel’s 1955 ChrisCraft Continental won the People’s Choice Award.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Gary Eklof won the sail boat category with his 15-foot 1985 Far Shore Explorer.
Press Publications held its annual Classic & Vintage Boat Show as a part of Manitou Days Saturday, June 20 at the lakefront of the White Bear Lake Shopping Center.
The chicks are growing like weeds, while mastering their Loon skills. Molting is underway, with contour feathers starting to form. Flying lessons are just around the corner.
HAPPY ONE-MONTH BIRTHDAY
Loon Chronicles XI: Happy one-month birthday
The Peninsula chicks are growing like weeds, thanks to their parents’ round-the-clock fish deliveries, which now include sunfish. The family continues to spend most of their time making their way along the west shore of the peninsula. When the parents take breaks to fish or socialize with visiting Loons, the chicks know to stay near or under the docks and heed their parents’ warning calls. Yesterday, we witnessed their safety plan in action. When a drone flew overhead. Mama and the chicks responded as if the drone were an Eagle. Mama slapped her bill in the water, and the chicks immediately dove and stayed under for more than a minute. Mama assumed the Penguin position and called to warn all. When the chicks surfaced, mama swam to the chicks and kept them close as she continued to call. Artemis joined in the warning calls, making soft and high-pitched sounds. Apollo watched and listened. Both chicks, who are inseparable, have started to molt and are working on their wing flap, diving, fishing, preening, and foot waggle skills. The Cove parents have not returned to their old
Jolie Wood named government and community relations director
Jolie Wood has been named director of government and community relations in the Ramsey County manager’s office following her leadership of the division in an interim capacity during the 2026 legislative session. In this role, Wood will oversee Ramsey County’s federal and state government relations program. She will also coordinate the development and implementation of the county board’s annual federal and state legislative platforms.
Wood brings more than eight years of experience with Ramsey County.
Prior to joining Ramsey County, Wood taught political science at Allegheny College in Pennsylvania and at the Asian University for Women in Chittagong, Bangladesh, as well as at Metropolitan State University. Her academic research focused on protest and political participation in India, where she lived for four years. Earlier in her career, she worked as an analyst and researcher on U.S. foreign and defense policy in Washington, D.C.
Wood holds a Ph.D. in government from the University of Texas at Austin, a master’s degree in political science from Columbia University, and a bachelor’s degree in international relations from San Francisco State University.
Wood’s first official day in her new role was Tuesday, June 1.
nest and do not appear interested in renesting. The Birchwood pair has been courting since late March, but has shown little interest in claiming any of the open nests. We anticipate the arrival of the rafting-bachelors and sub-adults during the next few weeks, with circle dances to follow. This morning, we counted six Loons flying overhead and calling to all below, before landing. They are just getting started!
RAMSEY COUNTY BRIEF
Jolie Wood
Ellen Maas
JUNE
VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
NOTICE OF FILING
Notice is hereby given for candidates wishing to file for the office of Mayor (two year term) and office of Council Member (four year term) for the City of Vadnais Heights. The filing period opens July 14 and closes July 28, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Candidates may file at Vadnais Heights City Hall located at 800 E County Road E, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127. Normal office hours are 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 7:00 to 11:30 a.m. Friday. City Hall will remain open until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28 for the last day for candidates to file, and Thursday, July 30, for the last day for candidates to withdraw.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24, 2026.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS PUBLIC NOTICE
The City Council of the City of Vadnais Heights has adopted Ordinance No. 801, concerning an interim ordinance establishing a one-year moratorium on data centers. The full text of Ordinance No. 801 is available for inspection at Vadnais Heights City Hall during regular business hours. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24, 2026. RAMSEY COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF CONTRACT FOR DEED TO: Lori Dittel, Personal Representatives or Assigns THIS NOTICE IS TO INFORM YOU THAT BY THIS NOTICE THE SELLER HAS BEGUN PROCEEDINGS UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 559.21, TO TERMINATE YOUR CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF YOUR PROPERTY FOR THE REASONS SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE. THE CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE
90 DAYS AFTER SERVICE OF THIS NOTICE UPON YOU UNLESS BEFORE THEN: (a.) THE PERSON AUTHORIZED IN THIS NOTICE TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS RECEIVES FROM YOU:
(1.) THE AMOUNT THIS NOTICE SAYS YOU OWE; PLUS (2.) THE COSTS OF SERVICE (TO BE SENT TO YOU); PLUS (3.) $500.00 TO APPLY TO ATTORNEY’S FEES ACTUALLY EXPENDED OR INCURRED; PLUS
(4.) FOR CONTRACTS EXECUTED ON OR AFTER MAY 1, 1980, ANY ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS BECOMING DUE UNDER THE CONTRACT TO THE SELLER AFTER THIS NOTICE WAS SERVED ON YOU; PLUS (5.) FOR CONTRACTS, OTHER THAN EARNEST MONEY CONTRACTS, PURCHASE AGREEMENTS, AND EXERCISED OPTION, EXECUTED ON OR AFTER AUGUST 1, 1985, $36.92 (WHICH IS TWO PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT IN DEFAULT AT THE TIME OF SERVICE OTHER THAN THE FINAL BALLOON PAYMENT, ANY TAXES, ASSESSMENTS, MORTGAGES OR PRIOR CONTRACTS THAT ARE ASSUMED BY YOU); OR
(b.) YOU SECURE FROM A COUNTY OR DISTRICT COURT AN ORDER THAT THE TERMINATION OF THE CONTRACT BE SUSPENDED UNTIL YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES ARE FINALLY DISPOSED OF BY TRIAL, HEARING OR SETTLEMENT. YOUR ACTION MUST SPECIFICALLY STATE THOSE FACTS AND GROUNDS THAT DEMONSTRATE YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES. IF YOU DO NOT DO ONE OR THE OTHER OF THE ABOVE THINGS WITHIN THE TIME PERIOD SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE, YOUR CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE AT THE END OF THE PERIOD AND YOU WILL LOSE ALL THE MONEY YOU HAVE PAID ON THE CONTRACT; YOU WILL LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO POSSESSION OF THE PROPERTY; YOU MAY LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO ASSERT ANY CLAIMS OR DEFENSES THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE; AND YOU WILL BE EVICTED. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS NOTICE, CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY.
THE PERSON AUTHORIZED TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS PURSUANT TO THIS NOTICE IS:
NAME: Kaylee Hockein-Bryse
Productive Properties
ADDRESS: 90 West Plato Boulevard St. Paul, MN 55107
TELEPHONE: (651) 266-2056
YOU ARE HEREBY FURTHER NOTIFIED THAT default has been made in the conditions of that certain contract, recorded as Document No. T02708805 on August 11, 2021, whereby Heather Bestler, County Auditor/Treasurer for the County of Ramsey, as vendor, sold and agreed to convey to Lori Dittel, heir to the estate of Leonard D. Jurek, Single Individual, as vendee, the tract of land lying in the County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, described as follows: J. F. Eisenmenger’s Addition to the City of St. Paul, Lot 22, Block 1 Address: 53 Cook Ave W., Saint Paul, MN 55117 PID #: 30-29-22-23-0025 (T)
That the conditions of said contract in which said default has been made are as follows:
Delinquent payments and interest $ 1,846.05
Delinquent taxes and assessments
$ 4,661.75 $ 6,507.80
AND THAT said contract will be canceled and terminated 60 days after the service of this notice upon you unless you make the necessary payments or obtain a court order as set forth above.
/s/ Shanika Alston Shanika Alston (0390998) Asst. Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha Street North, Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3173
This Instrument was drafted by: Ramsey County Attorney’s Office 360 Wabasha Street North, Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102
Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 10, 17 and 24, 2026.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES
JUNE 2, 2026
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:00 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Stacey D’Andrea, Assistant County Attorney, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Jebens-Singh. AGENDA of June 2, 2026 was presented for approval. Motion by Miller, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved.
MINUTES of May 26, 2026 were presented for approval. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
Human Resources – Appointments to the Personnel Review Board. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-070) Community Corrections – Appointments to the Corrections Advisory Board. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-071)
Public Health – Appointments to the Community Health Services Advisory Committee. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-072) Parks & Recreation – Appointments to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-073)
PRESENTATION
Social Services – Presentation: Aging and Disability Services Update. For information and discussion only. Presented by Katy Molinare, Deputy Director,
www.presspubs.com
Social Services Department. 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 10:17 a.m.
CLOSED MEETING
Pursuant to Minnesota Statues 13D.05, Subdivision 3(b) in order to discuss the Wilson v. Ramsey County matter. The Ramsey County Board met in a closed meeting, which was not open to the public.
Re: Wilson v. Ramsey County Matter
The Closed Meeting was called to order at 10:36 a.m.
Present: Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Also present: Ling Becker, County Manager; Kristine Nogosek, Assistant County Attorney, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office; Brett Bacon, Assistant County Attorney, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office; Jessica Yang, Paralegal, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office; Karen Francois, Deputy County Manager, Community Services and Support; Ali Ali, Director, Financial Assistance Services; Amelia Cruver, Chief Financial Officer, Finance; Mandy Malecek, Enterprise Risk Manager, Compliance and Ethics Office; and Jason Yang, Chief Clerk, County Manager’s Office.
The Board of Ramsey County Commissioners authorized the Ramsey County staff to proceed as discussed in the closed meeting (Resolution B2026-074).
Motioned by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Moran. Motion passed.
The closed meeting was adjourned at 11:41 a.m.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24, 2026.
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-PRMG37612-KB
OPENING DATE: JULY 9, 2026
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A PRIME CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ALL SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, MATERIAL, LABOR AND INCIDENTALS FOR THE RAMSEY COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS GENERATOR. THE PROJECT CONSISTS OF THE REPLACEMENT OF TWO EXISTING EMERGENCY DIESEL GENERATORS AND FOUR AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES, ASSOCIATED INTERCONNECTIONS AND REMOVAL OF THE EXISTING UNDERGROUND FUEL TANK.
PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: PUBLIC WORKS, 1425 PAUL KIRKWOLD DRIVE, ARDEN HILLS, MN 55112. JUNE 25, 2026, 9:30 AM CST
SOLICITATION: RFB-PUBW31266-KB
RAMSEY COUNTY
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
STATE PROJECT NO. S.P. 062-623-060
STATE PROJECT NO. S.P. 160-020-053 (ROSEVILLE)
STATE PROJECT NO. SP 200-020-016 (LITTLE CANDA) MN PROJECT NO. HSIP 6226(053)
BID OPENING THURSDAY, JULY 09, 2026
Ramsey County will receive sealed electronic bids for Bid RFBPUBW0000031266-0-2026/KB, Resurfacing County Road C Project until 2:00 PM, Thursday, July 09, 2026, through DemandStar.com. Immediately thereafter, all bids will be opened publicly and read aloud via Zoom, https:// zoom.us/j/102575333?pwd=dDA2Rnk4MEtlVW9DS3k4cUplRDJIQT09 or https://tinyurl.com/ZOOMRamseyCoSolic31266
Work includes grading, surfacing, converting striping to 3 lanes and bike shoulders, sidewalks/trails, traffic signals (3), and pedestrian signal.
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 SPECIAL PROVISIONS 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).”
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24, 2026. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-537
NOTICE FOR REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR SUMMARY ASSIGNMENT OR DISTRIBUTION AND FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, EXEMPT ESTATE In re the Estate of:
Patricia Louise Long, a/k/a Patty Long, f/k/a Patricia Louise Bettendorf, Decedent.
Notice is given that a petition has been filed requesting that the Estate assets be summarily assigned and distributed without probate administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
The Petition also requests the probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated February 15, 1980, and any codicil to the will dated October 12, 2011 (“Will”).
Any objections to the Petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper, and no objections or claims are filed, the Court may issue a decree distributing or assigning the Estate’s assets. 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 IS GIVEN that the Petition will be heard by this Court using remote technology via zoom on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, from 2:45 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that this Notice shall be published once per week for two consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in Ramsey County and a copy of this Notice shall be mailed at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons (Minn. Stat. 524.1-401) and persons who have filed a demand for notice pursuant to Minn. Stat. 524.3-204.
BY THE COURT: Theresa Ames, Court Administrator
BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator Date: June 12, 2026
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24 and July 1, 2026.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-24-487
NOTICE AND ORDER FOR HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE
Estate of Colleen Bruski, Decedent
The Personal Representative of the Estate has filed a Final Account and a petition which requests formal allowance of the final account, an order of complete settlement of the Estate and an order or decree of distribution to the persons entitled to the Estate.
IT IS ORDERED and notice is given that the petition will be heard on July 15, 2026, at 11:00 am by this Court using remote technology. Any objections to the Petition must be filed with the Court prior to or at the hearing.
1. Notice shall be given to all interested person (Minn. Stat. § 524.1-401) and persons who have filed a demand for notice pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 524.3-204.
2. Notice shall be given by mailing a copy of this Notice and Order by U.S. Postal Service at least 14 days prior to the hearing date.
BY THE COURT
Laura E. Nelson, Judge of District Court
Date: June 11, 2026
Attorney for Personal Representative
Paul D. Funke
Funke Law
3820 Cleveland Ave. N., Suite 500
St. Paul, Minnesota, 55112
Attorney License No: 0395366 Telephone: (651) 332-8700
Email: paul@funkelawoffice.com
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24 and July 1, 2026.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION
COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-548
NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of:
Derek M. Monson, a/k/a Derek Michael Monson and Derek Monson, Decedent.
NOTICE is given that on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:15 a.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Tyler M. Monson, whose address is 5998 Chasewood Pkwy, #2, Hopkins, Minnesota, 55343, 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 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 and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled. 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 and persons who have filed a demand for notice. 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 months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.
BY THE COURT: Theresa Ames, District Court Administrator
BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator
Date: June 15, 2026 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 24 and July 1, 2026.
Ramsey County reaches major milestone in establishing EDA
Ramsey County has reached a major milestone in establishing its new Economic Development Authority (EDA), following municipal approvals that allow the authority to expand the eligibility of existing Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) investments to strengthen local businesses, commercial corridors and economic competitiveness across the county.
The milestone follows action by 18 participating municipalities across Ramsey County.
Beginning in 2027, Ramsey County anticipates investing approximately $1.5 million to $2 million annually from existing HRA resources into business-focused programs and services that help communities thrive and expand access to
economic prosperity.
“This milestone reflects a shared commitment to the businesses and communities that contribute to Ramsey County’s economic vitality,” said Ramsey County Commissioner Mai Chong Xiong, chair of the HRA. “The Economic Development Authority creates new opportunities for strategic investments that support business growth, strengthen commercial corridors and help communities prosper.”
The EDA was authorized by the Minnesota Legislature in 2025 and expands the use of existing HRA funding to support economic development activities. By law, the EDA does not have taxing authority and will not create a new tax.
The legislation allows a portion of existing HRA funding to support business-focused programs and services while preserving Ramsey County’s ongoing commitment to affordable housing and redevelopment investments.
Potential funding priorities include:
• Strengthening business support organizations.
• Expanding technical assistance services.
• Creating cohort-based learning opportunities for entrepreneurs.
• Improving economic data and research capabilities.
• Supporting workforce initiatives, development projects and commercial corridor investments.
“Small businesses play an
important role in our local economy,” said Ramsey County Manager Ling Becker. “The Economic Development Authority provides Ramsey County with an additional way to strengthen business ecosystems, in partnership with our cities, to support innovation and make targeted investments that benefit residents throughout the county.”
Commissioners elected Commissioner Mai Chong Xiong as chair of the EDA and Commissioner Garrison McMurtrey as vice chair. During the coming months, Ramsey County will develop program recommendations and funding priorities for consideration by the EDA.
Above: Bubbles and raindrops intermingle over the crowd of umbrella equipped spectators gathered along Lake Avenue during the Manitou Days Parade.
At right: Meritt, Brynn, Jojo and Avery pose near their “Birthday Bears” sculpture during the Sandcastles & Creatures contest.
Above:
Band
At left: A sizable crowd of spectators checks out a wide variety of watercraft along Lake Avenue during the annual Manitou Days Boat Show.
WASHINGTON COUNTY BRIEF
Public invited to regional trail open house
Washington County will host a public open house event for the Middle St Croix Valley to PhalenKeller Regional Trail from 4 to 6 p.m. on June 24 at Lake Elmo City Center, 3880 Laverne Ave. N. Attendees will have the chance to speak with the project team and ask questions about the trail's development and plans. Attendees will also be able to provide early input on potential destinations and other priorities.
The Middle St Croix Valley to Phalen-Keller Regional Trail will be an east-west multi-use, paved trail. The search area includes the communities of Bayport, Baytown Township, West Lakeland Township, Lake Elmo, Oakdale, Landfall, Maplewood and St Paul. Once fully developed, the trail will connect users to regional destinations including the Central Greenway and Middle St Croix Valley Regional Trails, Lake Elmo Park Reserve and Phalen and Keller Regional Parks (Ramsey County).
If you are unable to attend the in-person open house, there will be an opportunity to review material shared at the open house on the project’s website through July 10. Visit WashingtonCountyMN.gov/ MSTCV-PKTrail.
There will be no formal presentation or discussion during the open house. For questions or more information, contact Project Manager Andrea Rehm at Andrea.Rehm@ WashingtonCountyMN.gov or 651-430-4332.
Press seeks to honor active-duty soldiers
The White Bear Press would like to salute local active-duty soldiers in its commemorative special section in the July 1 issue in honor of the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Those who wish to honor an active-duty soldier should submit the soldier’s name, military branch and years of service to artmanager@presspubs.com.
July
July
July 5: Live Music, Brenda Bonin
July 5: Music: Irish Diplomacy
TRAVEL GUIDE
July 7: Beginner Friendly Yoga 6 - 7pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 7: Bingo 6:30pm - 8pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 8: Live Music, Becky Rae Dalton 5-8pm 7 Vines
July 8: Cribbage Tournament 5:30pm - 7pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 10: Art at the Winery: Plant and Sip 6pm - 8:30pm Dancing Dragonfly
July 11: Car Show at DDW 11am - 4pm Dancing Dragonfly
July 11: VIP - Vine to Bottle tasting tour noon - 1:30pm Two Silo
July 11: Rustic Roots Vineyard Tour & Tasting 12 and 3pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 11: VIP - Pappouli’s Wine tasting experience 2 - 3:30pm Two Silo
July 12: Rustic Roots Vineyard Tour & Tasting 12:00 PM Rustic Roots Winery
July 12: Acoustic Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Dancing Dragonfly
July 12: Live Music in the Vines - Too Square Band 2 - 5 pm Two Silo
July 12: Live Music, Michael August 2-5pm 7 Vines
July 12: Music: Cole Thomas 3 - 6pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 12: Grounded in Nature: A Sound Bath 6:30 - 7:30pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 14: Beginner Friendly Yoga 6 - 7pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 14: Trivia with Ryan 6:30pm - 8pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 15: Live Music, Josh Quinn & Rose Duffey 5-8pm 7 Vines
July 16: Summer Artisans’ Market 4 - 7pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 16: Trivia Night 6:30pm - 8pm Dancing Dragonfly
July 18: Twin Cities Vintage Flea Market 12-6pm Big Wood Brewery
July 18: VIP - Vine to Bottle tasting tour noon - 1:30 pm Two Silo
July 18: Rustic Roots Vineyard Tour & Tasting 12 and 3pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 18: Club Exclusive: Vineyard Tour & Picnic 12:30pm - 12:30am Dancing Dragonfly
July 18: VIP - Pappouli’s Wine tasting experience 2:00 - 3:30 pm Two Silo
July 18: Paul Bergers Trip Band 6-9pm Big Wood Brewery
July 19: Rustic Roots Vineyard Tour & Tasting 12:00pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 19: Acoustic Sunday 1 pm - 4 pm Dancing Dragonfly
July 19: Live Music, Steve Poynter 2-5pm 7 Vines
July 19: Music: Riverside Unplugged 3 - 6pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 21: Beginner Friendly Yoga 6 - 7pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 21: Bingo 6:30pm - 8pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 22: Live Music, Tim Cheesebrow 5-8pm 7 Vines
July 22: Cribbage Tournament 5:30pm - 7pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 24: SUMMER In The VINES with our Winemaker 5:30 - 9:00pm Two Silo
July 24: Dueling Pianos 6 - 9pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 25: VIP - Vine to Bottle tasting tour noon - 1:30pm Two Silo
July 25: Rustic Roots Vineyard Tour & Tasting 12 and 3pm Rustic Roots Winery
July 25: VIP - Pappouli’s Wine tasting experience 2:00 - 3:30pm Two Silo
July 25: Fortunate Suns Band 6-9pm Big Wood Brewery
July 26: Rustic Roots Vineyard Tour & Tasting 12:00pm Rustic Roots Winery
July
July 26: Live Music, Bjorn Briel 2-5pm 7 Vines
July 26: Music: Jeff Brooks & Andrea Lind 3 - 6pm Rustic Roots Winery
July
July
MAHTOMEDI GRADUATION:
our Zephyr beneath us, forming the foundation that continues to push us forward.
around this room, I mean really look, all I see is change. I no longer see the girls I played overly competitive games of four-square with during recess. I no longer see the boys who would always try to trade some of their Takis for the guacamole during snack time. I no longer see students unsure and lacking confidence. When I look out, in front of me, I see a group of resilient and compassionate leaders whether they all know it or not. Here’s the truth: we have changed in every way.
Through the unexpected challenges and the moments that pushed us out of our comfort zones, we’ve grown stronger, more understanding, and more capable than we once were. So, while change is scary, change is the reason we’re standing here today as the people we’ve become.
“So
And while we have changed, there were people here every day helping us grow into those changes. MHS faculty, thank you for always being a listening ear, a steady source of guidance, and a constant reminder that we are more capable than we believe.
Now, from here, with our foundation to support and guide us, that gentle breeze will blow us all in many different directions. Some of us will stay close to home, some of us will go far away. Some have detailed plans, others have no idea what next year will look like, and that’s perfectly okay. Because, if the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that we don’t need to have everything figured out to continue moving forward.
Pretty soon, we will find ourselves in new places, surrounded by new people, starting over in ways that are both exciting and completely terrifying.
And at some point—maybe in a dorm room, or a lecture hall, or standing in an awkward circle of new people— someone will ask you a simple question:
“So… where are you from?”
Ruby Stembridge 2026 Mahtomedi Graduate
Your support, humor, and encouragement have made a lasting impact on all of us. I remember one time in 9th grade, Mr. Sansgaard gave us our U.S. History tests back and told us that we had done so badly that everyone would be allowed to retake them if they wanted. I got a 93, but I was under the impression that the 3 or 4 questions I got wrong were senseless, so why not just retake it and get a little cushion for my grade, which was already at, like, a 96? That makes so much sense, right? When I asked Mr. Sansgaard for the retake that supposedly everyone was entitled to, he laughed at me and said, “Absolutely not.”
I pushed back. How unfair was it that I couldn't retake the test I'd already gotten an A on? If I wanted to be obnoxious and do too much, that was my prerogative! Sansgaard tried to explain himself like “oh, I promise you’re not going to need it, you did amazing on the test, don’t retake it,” and at the time, I just thought he was trying to scam me because he didn’t want another test to grade. While that may have been partially true, looking back, I think he was also trying to teach me perspective. Success isn’t any less successful because it isn’t perfection. I mean, as a senior, I cannot even fathom being so caught up on a few silly mistakes that I couldn't see my achievements. I’ve always wondered why, out of all the things I’ve experienced during high school, I always remember this particular conversation. Maybe it's because of the intense anger I was feeling, or the shock at being told no and hearing “you’ve done enough.” But most of all, I think I remember this conversation because it reflects something true about all of the teachers at Mahtomedi: they didn’t just teach us subjects, they helped us shape how we see ourselves and the world ahead of us. The teachers and staff at MHS have truly been
And you’ll probably laugh a little and reply, “Oh, it’s this small town in Minnesota… Mahtomedi.”
And they won’t know how to pronounce it. They won’t know what a Zephyr is. They won’t understand the inside jokes, the traditions, or the little moments that meant everything to us.
But you will.
Because being a Zephyr is not about having a simplistic mascot that everyone always understands. It’s about being part of something steady, something supportive, something that pushes us forward. Even when we’re scattered in different directions, that steady support doesn’t disappear. We carry it with us, in the way we show up for others, in the way we handle change, and in the way we continue moving forward, even when we’re not entirely sure where we’re going.
So wherever life takes us next, continue to be that same steady, reliable force for good in the
world. And as we move into this next chapter, I want to leave with three things I want each of us to remember.
First, life is a long game. Take your successes and take your losses, and get back up again. At our age, since we haven’t been alive for very long, everything seems so dire and urgent and important, and this very moment defines everything—but your mistakes will not carry as much weight as you think they do. They’re just small moments in a much bigger story. Be easy on yourself, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. As I learned in 9th grade, our lives are not defined by a few missed questions along the way.
Second, be open. Countless new experiences, people, and ideas are coming your way, and not all of them are going to look like something you've planned for. But the world gets a little better every time we choose understanding over judgment, and curiosity over assumption. Lead with an open heart, especially when it’s uncomfortable. The more open you are, the more room you make in your life for people, perspectives, and moments you never would have found otherwise.
And finally: remember your roots. Remember every football game, inside joke, and every friendship that made our four years what they were. The people who sat next to you, stood by you, and pushed you along, even when you didn’t realize it. Because one day, those will be the moments you wish you could go back to—not the grades or the deadlines, or the four points you missed on a test, but the people and the memories you built together. Those small, steady moments shaped us the most. They’re the reason we are who we are today. And to quote my biggest inspiration in life and basketball number namesake Troy Bolton, we really are “all in this together.”
Congratulations, Class of 2026. And no matter where you go, don’t lose the Zephyr in you.
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.
NEW JOB OPENING IN RUSH CITY, MN
Make a difference as a Designated Coordinator (245D) for a person-centered home care service in Rush City, MN. This role oversees 245D services, ensuring compliance, quality care, and coordination among clients, families, and staff. Responsibilities include service coordination, documentation, plan oversight, and staff support. Full-time, on-site position. Pay is $49,000-$65,000 annually with benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and flexible schedule. Qualified candidates must meet MN 245D requirements with 3+ years of experience strong organizational skills, and prior staff supervision experience To apply, please send resume to Sue at Advent Talent Group: sue@adventtalentgroup.com.
Schwing America NOW HIRING
NOW LEASING 3 CHAIRS IN A WELL-ESTABLISHED PROFESSIONAL SALON
This opportunity is for stylists who already have a clientele and are ready to work in a consistent, elevated, drama-free environment What you’ll find at Salon 4862:
• Clean, well-maintained salon
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• Strong location with steady traffic
Come see the space, chat, and visit with us! Please, contact Sara for more information 651-755-3058
Press Publications NOW HIRING
Contributing Writer To pics may include: Re creation, local even ts and personalities, nature and stories from around the lake Please, send resume and three writing clips to whitebearnews@pr esspubs.com
SALON 4862 Now leasing 3 chairs in well establish ed professional sa lon This opportunity is for stylists who alre ady have a clientele and are ready to work in a consistent elevated, drama-free en vironment Plea se contact Sara for more information 65 1-755-3058
NOW HIRING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Love lake life? We’re seeking a reliable contributing writer to create engaging, community-focused content for a local lake publication. Topics include recreation, local events and personalities, nature and stories from around the lake. Ideal candidates have strong writing skills and an interest in the lake community. Please send resume and three writing clips to whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
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Dr. Katelin Held: White Bear Lake Area Schools’ Teacher of the Year
BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER
White Bear Lake Area High School was buzzy the last week of school as students sailed about the hallways during ROAR time, collecting their school supplies, picking up their assignments and mingling with friends.
Meanwhile, the classroom of Dr. Katelin Held, Teacher of the Year, was quiet enough for her to reflect on the honor which the district had bestowed upon her.
“It’s a huge vote of confidence. Wow, I do have people who believe in me,” she said. “Fifteen years into this gig and I’m still doing okay.”
When Katelin began thinking about the lineup of teachers she’d be joining—she mentioned Matthew Danielson, Wendy Suoja, Jeremy Rockford and Cameron Mahlum specifically—she admitted to feeling a bit of imposter syndrome.
“These icons of our school district, I know their classrooms because I sat in them,” Katelin said. “And I know there are lots of names that are not on that list.”
Even becoming a finalist for Teacher of the Year is rigorous.
While students, parents or community members can nominate a teacher for the award, that teacher then must answer numerous educational essay questions. Those essays are sent to a panel of former teachers, who select six finalists. Then, the finalists do an interview in front of 30 district and community stakeholders, including White Bear Lake Area Educators
President Tiffany Dittrich, another of Katelin’s former teachers.
While Katelin had made finalist for the award twice in the past, she had not pursued Teacher of the Year recently. She was instead pursuing her doctorate. “I’m not a competitive person,” Katelin said, “but also, these people believe in me … This year, I felt really compelled.”
In 2026, Katelin received 16 nominations from both current and former students, parents and coworkers.
Before she could begin speaking about the matter, though, a student interjected by saying, “Can I have you sign my yearbook?”
“Of course. How’s your (trimester) wrapping up?” Katelin asked, filling out a corner of a page. “I saw you
Area
ISD
doing ‘Bear Tank’ yesterday. How did it go? … I hope you have a good last ROAR time morning.”
Before Katelin could gather her thoughts about receiving a doctorate, another student approached. “I don’t know if this is a good time, but…” she said, holding out her yearbook.
“Yeah, I’ll do a quick sign for you,” Kateline responded.
“How’s your week going?”
“I finished my blended essay. I presented it to the class
yesterday; it’s so good,” the student said.
“Will you send it to me? Can I read it?” Katelin asked, clapping her hands in enthusiasm as the student eagerly accepted. After they exchanged an inside joke about Mountain Dew Baja Blast, Katelin began speaking about her doctoral journey.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to reach the highest level of learning,” she said. “I’m a lifelong learner, and I always
feel like I’m better when I’m a student too.” Katelin and her husband, White Bear Lake Area High School Associate Principal Joe Held, attended the Concordia University, St. Paul, doctorate program in the same cohort, finishing assignments after their children were asleep. “Ultimate nerd-dom, truly.” No sooner than Katelin finished speaking, another student eked ever closer with a yearbook before getting shy and leaving. “That’s all right. We’re still here a few more days,” Katelin said.
Next on Katelin’s to-do list is the revival of White Bear’s AP Literature course. “There was a group of 30 kids that signed up for it … and I had the privilege of teaching it this year,” Katelin said. “Next year, there are going to be three sections, so we had 400% growth.”
One of Katelin’s AP students introduced her for the Teacher of the Year ceremony earlier this year. “She mentioned that I call tests ‘celebrations of learning,” Katelin laughed. “And Tiffany Dittrich had always said that … She was sitting on the other side of the podium. She just looked at me and winked.”
Local business, Girl Scout Troop partner to create a sweet celebration
When Girl Scouts move from one age level to the next, they celebrate with a special tradition known as a bridging ceremony. During the ceremony, girls cross a bridge symbolizing new adventures, greater responsibilities and growing leadership opportunities.
This year, White Bear Lake Girl Scout Troop 58208 wanted to make their bridging ceremony even more meaningful by celebrating in a way that supported a small local business while creating lasting memories for their troop.
Troop leader Tiffany Serbus-Gustaveson connected with Christi Schreyer, owner of Sweet Life Lane in White Bear Lake, to explore the possibility of hosting the ceremony in the shop's charming courtyard. Christi enthusiastically welcomed the troop and offered an added surprise: 20% of all sales generated during the event would be donated back to the troop.
“The partnership created a true win-win for everyone involved,” Serbus-Gustaveson said.
Seventeen Girl Scouts, along with their families and friends, gathered to celebrate this important milestone before enjoying sweet treats and shopping at the local candy store. The event not only marked a memorable achievement for the girls but also demonstrated the power of community collaboration.
“Partnerships like this show how local businesses
and nonprofit organizations can support one another while strengthening the fabric of the White Bear Lake community. By working together, organizations can create meaningful experiences, support local commerce and give back to causes that make a difference,” Serbus-Gustaveson said.
Sweet Life Lane offers fundraising opportunities for schools, sports teams, scouting organizations and other community groups. To learn more
OBITUARIES
John Charles Ericson
Died unexpectedly on June 18, 2026. Visitation from 5-8pm, Sunday June 28, at Mueller Memorial 4738 Bald Eagle Ave. Mass of Christian Burial 11am Monday June 29, at St. Mary of the Lake Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave., with visitation one hour prior. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944. www.muellermemorial.com
Eugene Kurkowski
Loving husband of Joanne (his life). 9/5/19296/10/2026. He served in the Army, raised 6 kids in Vadnais Heights and lived until his death on June 10th. He had many good friends with the old names from the village. Garceau, Debilzan, Caron, Pillsbury, etc.... all the early VH volunteer FD. The man who was always there for people in need. He served the Lord mostly. Service at New Brighton Christian Church 6/25/26. Visitation 12pm, Service 1pm and lunch after.
about partnering with Sweet Life Lane, visit www. sweetlifelane.com/fundraising/.
Edward “Ed” Robichaud
February 23, 1935 – June 19, 2026. Age 91 of White Bear Lake. Passed peacefully on June 19, 2026. Preceded by wife, Marcie. Survived by children, Debbie (Dan) Brady, Steve (Sara) Robichaud, Mike (Patty) Robichaud, and Therese (Mike) Gadbois; 9 grandchildren; and 8 great grandchildren. Visitation at Mueller Memorial 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake on Tuesday, June 30 from 4-7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake at 11 AM on Wednesday, July 1 with visitation one hour prior. Memorials preferred to Frassati Catholic Academy. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944 www.muellermemorial.com
4779 Bloom Ave
WBLAS | CONTRIBUTED
Pictured (from left) are: White Bear Lake Area Educators President Tiffany Dittrich, White Bear Lake
Schools 2026 Teacher of the Year Dr. Katelin Held and
624 Superintendent Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
White Bear Lake Girl Scout Troop 58208 conducts a bridging ceremony at Sweet Life Lane in downtown White Bear Lake.
SP TTED
AROUND TOWN
1. A car club out of White Bear Lake was spotted at the Back to the 50s event hosted by the Minnesota Street Rod Association at the State Fairgrounds last weekend. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications
2. Some patriotic bears were spotted in White Bear Township. Unfortunately, they missed the deadline to enter the All-American Bear contest, but aren’t they cute? Noah, 12, Eli, 10, and Crosby, 6, helped decorate the bear.
— Ashley Spring, contributed
3. These Volkswagens were invited to attend a groom’s dinner at Stone & Oak in White Bear Lake. The vehicles fit right in with the 70s theme. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications
4. Bill Koch, a longtime resident at Washington Square Apartments, recently celebrated his 93rd birthday. His Bingo friends gave him a tutu to wear in honor of his favorite Bingo number 122 (tu-tu). — Contributed
5. Bernice Dillon is a WWII veteran who achieved the rank of E-4 Corporal in the Marines. VFW Auxiliary President Deb Courts-Brown recently stopped by the Lodge at White Bear to have lunch with Dillon in honor of Women Veterans Day.
— Contributed
6. The White Bear Smiles team enjoys their annual Cup and Cone outing.
— Contributed
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to whitebearnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
CONGRATULATIONS
Mahtomedi rolls to another state baseball title
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The Mahtomedi Zephyrs repeated as state Class 3A baseball champions, capped by a 10-0, six-inning rout of Totino-Grace on Monday, June 16, at
Target Field. It’s Mahtomedi’s fourth championship overall.
Alex Kurpis threw five shutout innings and the Zephyrs all but wrapped it up early with a six-run second inning.
This was their third straight title game; they lost to Totino-Grace 2-1 in
2024 and beat Mankato East 6-2 last year.
“All teams are unique. This year’s group had a pretty interesting dynamic and many personalities,” said coach Rob Garry. “Ultimately they were always ready for game time, which is the most important piece when searching for wins.”
Cody Loida, who played in three championship games, said, “It’s unreal, an amazing feeling. Back to back championships is really hard to do.”
Kurpis reflected, “It’s very exciting and I’m grateful to be part of it. I wouldn’t want to do it with anybody else. We have a lot of team chemistry and we’re great friends outside of baseball, too.”
Kurpis allowed three hits and three walks, lstriking out seven, nabbing his second win of the tournament. Not an overpowering pitcher, he keeps hitters off balance with curves and change-ups and had “really good movement” on his breaking pitches. Peyton Erickson finished the game with a 1-2-3 sixth inning.
The Zephyrs finished 24-5, including wins over Grand Rapids 2-1 and Mankato West 12-5 to reach the finals.
The big second inning off T-M starter Joey Terhaar included three singles, three Eagle errors and a bases-loaded walk. A single by Frank Schwieters started it. Peyton Whitbeck delivered a two-RBI single and Loida an RBI single.
“Having an early lead in the finals is always good; however, it was essential against TG,” said Garry. “They steal bases and bunt as well as anyone in the state, and getting the lead didn’t allow
them to do what they do best.”
Jake Reubish drew the RBI walk, and finished with three RBI’s. He slammed a triple over the left-fielder in the fifth to knock home a run. His foul popup in the third became sac fly as the first-baseman fell while catching it and Schwieters dashed home.
Loida put an exclamation point on the victory by slamming a home run in the big league ballpark, clearing the leftfield fence by several feet, in the sixth. Schwieters was 3-for-3 with two runs, Loida 2-for-4, and Sam Nasvik 2-for-3 with two runs. Luke Torgrude had two walks and two runs.
Totino-Grace (19-9) was top-seeded, having played a most Class 4A schedule in their conference. Mahtomedi was the No. 2 seed.
PHOTOS BY BETH DONAHUE | CONTRIBUTED
Jake Reubish connects for a long triple at Target Field.
Loida caps 6th state tourney with trip around the bases
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The 2026 state baseball tournament was the sixth career state trip for Cody Loida, three each in hockey and baseball, and he made the all-tournament team in both as a senior. The hockey team placed third.
Loida capped his prep career in grand style with a home run over the left-field fence at Target Field. “Once it came off the bat I thought it might go out. That was special,” he said. “I couldn’t believe it.”
Loida had signed with Sioux Falls for college baseball but recently de-committed and will pursue hockey instead, in the USHL with TriCity, based in Nebraska.
Asked what makes Mahtomedi’s baseball program so strong year after year, he said, “Our coach emphasizes family and tradition. We wear that on our teeshirts under our jersey. Coach Garry is a huge part of the program, not just coaching but life lessons outside of baseball.”
All-tournament picks
Mahtomedi’s three all-tournament picks were Loida, who went 6-for-12 with a homer and five RBI’s; junior
Frank Schwieters, 5-for10 with two RBI’s and three runs; and senior Alex Kurpis, pitching 10 scoreless innings (seven hits, three walks, 10 strikeouts).
Pitching staff deep
Though their Mr. Baseball ace, Connor Finn, struggled in his two-inning appearance (against Grand Rapids), the Zephyrs had excellent pitching overall from Tino Foster, Alex Kurpis and Peyton Erickson.
“Our pitching was solid all year,” said coach Rob Garry.
“Twenty-four wins in a season is the most we have ever had. At one point we had 13 games in 16 days, you can’t do that without a stable of talented guys on the mound. Strikes are king and we threw a lot of them over the year. Changing speeds and pitch location was a key factor.”
The coach cited catcher Peyton Whitbeck for being “as good as it gets, running a game from behind the plate. He instills a ton of confidence in our staff.” Whitbeck was also 4-for10 at state.
Kurpis comes through Alex Kurpis, asked how it felt to get the ball to start the championship game,
said, “Definitely thrilling, exciting, and a lot of nerves. I had lot more nerves in the semifinals though.”
He pitched five shutout innings in each game, in relief against Grand Rapids.
The six-run inning against TotinoGrace “really took the pressure off,” he said, “just like in the semifinals, when we had a nine-run inning.”
Kurpis pitched in nine games this season and gave up runs in only two of them. He had a 1.50 ERA in 42 innings.
He’s done with baseball for a while; his goal is to follow in his father’s footsteps as a firefighter and EMT and expects to start training soon.
Starting lineup
The regular starting lineup for the state champs was Peyton Whitbeck at catcher, Connor Finn at first, Jake Reubish at second, Sam Nasvik at shortstop, Gavin Bifulk at third, and Luke Torgrude, Isaac Iten and Cody Loida in left, center and right, with Frank Schwieters at designated hitter. Bifulk, Torgrude, Iten and Schweiters are juniors. Nasvik and Tino Foster (winning pitcher against Grand Rapids) are sophomores.
Zephyrs’ Finn gets Mr. Baseball award
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Two days after Connor Finn helped Mahtomedi capture its second consecutive state championship, he received the Mr. Baseball award last week.
“I was shocked and honored; there are a lot of great ballplayers in the state,” said Finn. “It was a goal of mine.”
Finn’s name was called at a banquet for the eight finalists on Wednesday.
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound left-hander throws consistently around 95 mph and has a wicked slider as well. “I had one at 97 in my last start,” he said. He committed to Texas Tech before his senior year.
In 45 innings this season, Finn struck out 98 batters, allowed just 10 hits, walked 33, and posted a 7-0 record. Also a first-baseman, Finn batted .360 with four home runs and 29 runs-batted-in.
About the two state titles, he said,
“That’s the standard at Mahtomedi, winning and excellence. The team bonded and worked together towards a common goal. It’s an honor to be part of that group.”
Finn was the football team quarterback as a junior, passing for 970 yards and 12 touchdowns against five interceptions, and was a running threat as well. He passed up his senior season to focus on baseball after his college commitment.
Coach Rob Garry described Finn as a pitcher who “put in all the work, and he knows how to take care of his arm,” including diligent weight lifting. Garry added that Finn was as good as any prep pitcher he has ever seen and virtually unhittable for high school batters.
Next on Finn’s mind is the Major League Baseball draft July 10-11. He’s been invited to a couple predraft tryouts. Depending on how the draft goes, he will decide on pro ball or reporting to Texas Tech on Aug. 20.
BETH DONAHUE | CONTRIBUTED
Cody Loida connected for a homer with this swing, his last one as a high school player.
BETH DONAHUE | CONTRIBUTED
Connor Finn was 7-0 with over two strikeouts per inning this season.
Press managing editor, intern honored by Society of Professional Journalists
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm received an award from the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists (MNSPJ) at the Page One Awards. She earned third place in the profile reporting category for her story, “From White Bear Eagle Scout to ‘Night Stalker,’” May 21, 2025, White Bear Press. The story is about Major Curtis Donald Feistner who died at the age of 34 in a helicopter crash in the Philippines in 2002. This year’s Page One contest drew more than 550 entries representing every corner of the state from newspapers, radio and television stations and online publications. According to the MNSPJ, these awards
“celebrate the state’s best journalism.”
Former Press Publications’ intern Maya Betti, Shoreview, is one of the MNSPJ 2026 scholarship winners.
Betti, a student at St. Olaf College, is executive editor at The Olaf Messenger and has reported for Press Publications, KYMN Radio, The Roseville Reporter and The Park Bugle. She is currently working as a communications intern at the New York Times. In her role, she compiles data-driven media coverage reports, develops multimedia content and assists with media inquiries.
For a full list of award winners, visit www.mnspj.org/2026/06/16/mnspj2026-page-one-awards-winners.
Former Press Publications Intern and current contributing writer Maya Betti is one of the 2026 Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists scholarship winners.
651-653-3121.
All classes are at the Normandy Park Senior Center, 2484 E County Rd F, WBL, unless otherwise indicated.
55+ Driver Safety: $35 Online: Jul 7, 1-5pm | Aug 4, 1-5pm | Aug 25, 9am-1pm Vinyasa Yoga: Tue, Jun 30-Aug 25, 5:30-6:30pm, $96, Bellaire Beach Chair Yoga: Mon, Jul 6-27, 10-10:45am, $32 Joint Pain Lunch & Learn: Jul 14, 11:30am-12:30pm, $5
The Science of Sleep: Jul 15, 11am-12:30pm, $5 Trivia Bingo: Jul 16, 10-11:30am, $5
Beginners Guide to ChatGPT: Jul 21, 4-6pm, $35, Online Summer BBQ: Jul 23, 11:30am, $8 Home Composting: Jul 27, 6:30-8pm, $20, UofM Extension Office, Maplewood Premier World Travel Show: Jul 18, 10-11:30am, Free Singo: Live Music Bingo: Jul 31, 10:30-11:30am, $13 Day Trip: Night Trains @ the Twin Cities Model Train Museum: Sat, Aug 22, 3:30-7pm, $60. Call for more details. FootCare Clinic: 30-minute appointment, $60, Call to schedule: 651-653-3121
Meals on Wheels: Hot or Frozen meals delivered Mon-Fri. If you are interested, know of someone who may need meals, call 651-653-3123.
MAHTOMEDI COMMUNITY EDUCATION ADULT ACTIVITIES AT THE MAHTOMEDI DISTRICT EDUCATION CENTER (DEC) 1520 MAHTOMEDI AVE.
All activities are held at the DEC unless otherwise noted.
Book Club - FREE 2nd Friday, 10-11:30 am
The following requires registration: mahtomedi. ce.eleyo.com or call 651-407-2018
Thursdays, June 16th-August 4th, 1:15-2 pm FREE for SilverSneakers, RenewActive, or OnePass.
55+ Defensive Driving - $35. Monday, July 20th, 9am-1pm Bingo - FREE. Monday,
Mondays: Mahjong - FREE 1-3 pm
Bingo - FREE. Monday, March 30th
Tuesdays: Cribbage - FREE 1-3 pm
Wednesdays: Bridge - FREE 12:30-3:30 pm
Thursdays: 500 Cards - FREE 12:30-3 pm
Fridays: Games - FREE 12:30-3 pm; Bridge - FREE 1-3 pm;
History with Kathy Simmer: “The Dark President: Richard Nixon” 10am-12pm. Registration deadline: July 7th at 8am- $18. Tuesday, July 7th, Boho Art Acrylic Painting - $38. Monday, July 13th, 5:30-7:30pm Basics of Estate Planning - $10. Tuesday, July 16th, 5:30-6:30 pm Strength & Balance (55+) - $139. Tuesdays &
CONTRIBUTED
Press Publications’ Managing Editor Shannon Granholm receives an award from the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists at the Page One Awards ceremony June 16 at The Lowlands in St. Paul.
SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS