Aerial Marketfest perspective
Aspiring pilot Wesley Weilbacher, 9, sits in the cockpit of the F4 Phantom Jet that was on display during a recent Thursday evening Marketfest installment. The family shared that his Great Grandfather Ed Schoonmaker was a fighter pilot in WWII and the Korean War. Volunteers from the 133rd Minnesota Air National Guard Airlift Museum brought the display to White Bear Lake. Find more information about the museum at mnagmuseum.org.
Planning Commission recommends zoning code update with 1 amendment
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — This September will mark two years that the city, its consultants and the Community Advisory Committee have been working to “modernize” the city’s zoning code, which hasn’t received a full-scale review since the 1980s.
“This is a comprehensive review and rewrite of the city’s zoning code,” explained Community Development Director Jason Lindahl.
The process kicked off in September 2023. According to state law, all metropolitan cities are required to update their zoning regulations to be consistent with their comprehensive plans.
Other goals of the project include protecting and strategically growing the city; supporting economic development; increasing housing choices; transitioning to “place-based” zoning; and creating a modern, user-friendly code. (See “White Bear Lake ‘modernizing’ zoning code,” Feb. 26, 2025, White Bear Press.)
The update process is nearing its end. Its final phase includes review by the Planning Commission, a public hearing and ultimate review by the City Council. Much of the discussion at the public hearing centered on accessory dwelling units and short-term rentals.
“Over the course of the Community Advisory Committee, this was one of the most talked-about items,” Lindahl said of accessory dwelling units.
“It was a very debated topic.”
Best of the Press Readers’ Choice contest voting opens this week
BY TYLER QUATTRIN PRESS INTERN
The nominations are in, and voting opens at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, for Press Publications’ annual Best of the Press Readers’ Choice contest.
Community members will vote for a wide variety of their favorites, including restaurants, doctors, schools, artists, services, events and much more.
This year’s contest features more than 150 categories, including 29 new or newly revised categories including:
best art class, best beer selection at a liquor store, best bourbon selection, best spirits at a bar or liquor store, wine selection at a liquor store and bar, best assisted living, best chiropractor, best orthopedic clinic, best orthopedic doctor or surgeon, best physical therapy clinic, best senior care facility, best elementary school, best high school, best middle school, best teacher K to 5, best teacher 6 to 12, best wedding venue indoors, best wedding venue outdoors, best bank, best credit union, best hair stylist, best hair salon, best landscape company,
best veterinary clinic - emergency, best veterinary clinic - general and best hardware store.
The contest helps recognize exceptional businesses, Press Publications General Manager Patty Steele said. Winning a badge adds credibility to a business for someone making a buying decision.
“There’s nothing better for a business than to be able to get those kinds of votes, because that tells you
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights of the Press
PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
BEST OF: Vote once a day
FROM PAGE 1
as a business, you are doing something right,” she said, “Because you don’t just get the (winner/finalist) badge. You have to earn the badge from your patrons or customers.”
The contest, which started in 2021, is gaining popularity each year. Last year, participation surged, with more than 25,000 votes and a 75% increase in nominations. This year, there were 10,000 more nominations.
Voting is available 24/7 on
the Press Publications website at presspubs.com/bestof. Each reader may vote up to one time per day. Winners and finalists will be recognized in a special section the first week of October. Winners will also be posted online.
Tyler Quattrin is an intern for Press Publications. He can be reached at intern2@presspubs. com or 651-407-1200.
COMMUNITY BRIEF
‘Orange Out’ at Marketfest
July 10 is Spirit Night at Marketfest for students and graduates of White Bear Lake Area High School. All Bears should wear orange and join in for an Orange Out photo at 6:30 p.m. on Fourth Street. The theme night also includes WBLAHS student groups and activities.
AUTHOR VISIT
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, July 11
Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake
Details: Ameila Reigstad will sign copies of her new book “Hello Ms. Perfect” and Varla Ventura (aka Amber Guetebier) will sign copies of her book “Enchanted Plants”.
Contact: 651-426-0918
FRIDAYS WITH FIREFIGHTERS
When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, July 11
Where: Hugo Fire Department, 5323 140th Street N. Details: Stop by the fire station to meet firefighters, go for a ride in a truck, jump in a bounce house, and enjoy free popcorn.
Contact: ci.hugo.mn.us/hfd
BIRCHWOOD MUSIC IN THE PARK
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, July 13
Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park, 410 Lake Ave., Birchwood
Details: Concert by adult show choir Harmonic Relief is free and open to the public. Seating not provided; bring a folding chair or blanket. Beer and wine permitted.
Contact: cityofbirchwood.com
CRAFT & CREATE: THE ART OF CARD MAKING
When: 2-4 p.m. Thursday, July 17
Where: White Bear Lake Health Club (HealthPartners), 1430 Highway 96 E
8TH ANNUAL BIKE AROUND WHITE BEAR LAKE
When: Saturday, July 12
Where: Bellaire Beach Park, 2500 South Shore Blvd.
Details: Guided, 10-mile bike ride around White Bear Lake. Ages 12 and up, under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. New this year a History Mystery Tour option at 9 a.m. Contact: lakelinks.org
Details: Create handmade cards. Registration required. Contact: isabel.p.vang@healthpartners.com
COMMUNITY ICE CREAM SOCIAL
When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 17
Where: Washington County Historic Courthouse
Lawn, 101 W. Pine St., Stillwater
Details: Bring a blanket and listen to live music on the lawn. Enjoy root beer floats and ice cream. Visit with variety of vendors offering activities and items for sale.
Contact: 651-275-7075
ONGOING EVENTS
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. Contact: marketfestwbl.com
MAHTOMEDI AREA FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturdays
Where: Veterans Memorial Park
Details: Local vendors offer fresh produce, honey, artisan breads, handmade crafts and much more. Contact: mahtomedifarmersmarket@gmail.com
WHITE BEAR LAKE FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Fridays
Where: Clark Ave., 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
New to the newsroom
’Im Tyler Quattrin, and I’m excited to be one of two interns at Press Publications this summer. I recently finished my first year of college at the University of Maryland, where I’m studying journalism with a minor in public policy. While I enjoyed my first year attending school away from home, I’m happy to spend my summer back in the community where I grew up.
Quattrin’s Corner
Tyler Quattrin
My family and I have lived in North Oaks since 2012, and I graduated from Mounds View High School in 2024. My years in high school were defined by my time with the Mounds View Swim and Dive Team and my role as editor of the student newspaper “The Viewer.”
I knew I had a passion for journalism even before joining the high school paper. Growing up, I was a curious kid and always had a fascination with consuming news. Ever since realizing I could pursue news gathering and telling stories as a career, it’s been my passion, even though I’m still narrowing down exactly what kind of journalist I want to be. While it’s an uncertain time for the news industry, I’m optimistic that quality and innovative reporting will always play an essential role in society, especially on the local level.
Since discovering my passion, it’s only grown with each new experience. Over the past year, I got involved with student journalism in college right away by anchoring a student radio news show, WMUC News, and reporting on the crime beat. I also freelanced feature stories for “The Diamondback,” one of Maryland’s independent student newspapers, where I’ll be joining as a staff writer in the fall. As a journalist, I enjoy covering just about anything, but I’m especially drawn to feature writing. I love meeting interesting people and having the opportunity to tell their stories. I’m also interested in political reporting and aspire to cover national politics one day. In addition, I have a strong passion for photojournalism. I’m looking forward to gaining more experience in all of these areas during my internship.
This summer, you can also find me behind the cash registers at the Cub Foods in White Bear Township, where I’ll be working for my third summer. If you come through my line and recognize me from this column, please say so! I’m also looking forward to getting back into swimming, spending time outdoors and catching up with friends this summer.
I’m beyond excited to have the opportunity to cover this community for Press Publications, and by doing so, gain experience that will help me grow as a journalist. Even though I just started, I can already tell this newsroom is full of people who love this community and care about providing it with meaningful stories.
See you around! And in the meantime, please feel free to reach out at intern2@ presspubs.com.
Tyler is a news intern at Press Publications.
We hear you and are taking action
Service Improvements:
Thank you to the older adults, individuals living with disabilities, and caregivers who have shared with me the personal impacts of Ramsey County service backlogs. Post-Covid increases have caused frustration, anxiety, and sometimes disruption of care. We hear you, we are taking action to address these urgent concerns, and are making significant progress.
Ramsey County has adopted an All-Hands-on-Deck Initiative to address its Financial Assistance Services (FAS) backlog. We are focusing on improving employee retention, training, cultural supports, processes and collaboration with county partners and advocacy groups. Since November, 81 FTEs have joined the FAS Department, and 80 new MNChoices staff should be fully online in early 2026. Technology solutions, including voicemail transcription, email-to-case file conversion tools, improved phone systems, and live translation services, are reducing wait times and enhancing overall resident experience.
A key focus of mine has been improving coordination and communication with the county and contracted partners and advocacy groups. Recently, I hosted the first Cross Sharing Partner Group
• Limited to 350 words.
• Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.
• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.
meeting to build and leverage relationships across community organizations and county assistance programs. Goals include identifying priorities for county-level improvements, shared service delivery and aligning advocacy strategies.
Through this work, the FAS backlog has been greatly reduced. Since August 2024, regular SNAP timeliness improved by 25%, expedited SNAP processing improved by 16%, and general intake applications are now assigned within one day of receipt. Residents applying through Minnesota benefits can opt in to receive confirmation messages via text or email. The updated Downtown Service Center re-opened in June, featuring an enhanced checkin process and improved service flow through increased coordination between co-located partner services. Suburban county service centers are located at Maplewood Mall and the Roseville library.
Budget considerations:
In Minnesota, health and human services are legislated by the state and provided by counties.
Both federal and state funding and policy decisions directly impact county program implementation and funding. Thanks to strong county advocacy and allies at the legislature, many state budget concerns were mitigated. However, changes at the federal level—particularly to Medicaid and SNAP—will increase the fiscal burden on counties and affect service delivery. This means new out-of-pocket costs and loss of benefits for certain
Medicaid enrollees and anticipated longer wait times, reductions in triage services, and higher property taxes impacting us all. Ramsey County has established internal planning mechanisms to assess potential disruptions including proactive budget impact analyses, engagement with our state and federal representatives, and coalition-building with peer jurisdictions. These efforts inform county leadership as it drafts the FY 26-27 budget to be presented to the County Board in early September. I encourage residents to watch the public budget hearings this fall and share any questions or concerns with me, as your feedback informs my budget approval decisions.
Community connections: All are welcome at the upcoming District One Community Picnic from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 29 at Island Lake County Park in Shoreview. Join me to hear county updates and discuss local issues. Food and beverages provided. I will be hosting regular office hours on the last Wednesday of the month, unless otherwise noted, from 1 to 5 p.m. In-person and virtual options are available. You can find information on how to sign up and receive county updates in my newsletter, Facebook posts, or by contacting my office at Tara.JebensSingh@ ramseycounty.us or 651-266-8362. Let's keep the conversation going!
Tara Jebens-Singh is Ramsey County Commissioner, District 1.
BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.
• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.
• Repeat letters by the same
writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.
• Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.
• All letters are subject to editing.
• Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication.
• To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs. com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.
Movers and Shakers
Tara Jebens-Singh
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Lacking transparency
Last week’s Press included an Editor’s Note expressing frustration with obtaining and reporting incident reports from our Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office. Others and I also share in their frustration which has been occurring for too many years. Ask yourself why? Why “We The People” are not allowed to be informed to what’s occurring in our community? Likewise, when I posted this same concern on “Vadnais Heights Residents Only Web Page” my 10 year membership was cancelled and no reason was given. What’s my point? One would think someone on our City Council would care enough to ask Ramsey County why we’re not allowed to see public records regarding crime in our community.
Terry Nyblom Vadnais Heights
Policies affect local community
Imagine being a first-time mother, just months from delivering your baby— navigating the expected worries around health, finances and family support. Now imagine being told by the federal government that you must stop working and are encouraged to self-deport "immediately."
This is not hypothetical. It is the current reality for two teachers at my child’s daycare. These individuals—employed, contributing, and caring for young children—are now facing
the loss of their livelihoods due to the termination of the Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans Parole Program.
The Trump administration’s decision to end this program abruptly disrupts the lives of people who followed a clear, lawful process to live and work in the U.S. The consequences are not abstract. They affect local families, small businesses, and the very people who care for our children and keep our communities running.
Too often, immigration debates are treated as distant or theoretical. But the impact of these policies shows up in our neighborhoods, our schools and our daily routines. Policy choices made in Washington have a direct and immediate effect on the lives of people we know and depend on.
If this administration's goal is to support working families and strengthen communities, actions like these only serve to undermine that effort.
Alexa Farah Vadnais Heights
Tree news recalls poem
The recent, perhaps I should say ongoing, debate around the fate of the old trees downtown put me in mind of the oftenconflicted feelings I used to get back in the day, when we were dirt poor, and I had to cut wood to heat our home. Practical concerns often seemed at odds with other felt sensibilities. I dug out a poem I wrote about it some years ago. Perhaps it will strike a helpful note on both sides of the issue.
A Tree-huggers Lament; Thoughts While Cutting Wood
These trees O’ Lord which you have made
Which wait on you so solemnly assembled in this glade
These trees, do they know I am here?
Or do their spirits slowly move, as in some other sphere?
Where time is measured less by change
And more on some eternal range?
My children seem to know, they play
Not asking for permission on the fallen logs that lay
Without a care for deeper thoughts
Of guilt that haps I own for all the carnage I have wrought
As if to judge my ruminations
Mere old guy navel contemplations.
Perhaps they’re right, I need to see
The carcasses I’m cutting up
More pragmatically
And set my will to labors end
As split and split and split again
Each piece yields its promise said
Of children warm and snug in bed.
But I can’t help a little guilt
A sentimental sadness for all the sap I’ve spilt
And longing for another day
When I can quit my butchering and put my saw away
And sit with Kilmer quietly
The long day long, and gaze at trees.
La Vie Est Belle is coming to White Bear Lake this September
La Vie Est Belle is a brick-and-mortar and online gift boutique with a location in Lake Elmo (3417 Lake Elmo Ave. N.). This fall, the boutique will open its second location at 2175 Fourth Street in downtown White Bear Lake. The space is currently occupied by Leona Rose.
La Vie Est Belle (French for “life is beautiful”) was born when Kristin Rehkamp’s daughter experienced a mental health crisis in 2020.
Rehkamp said her heart shifted to caring for her family while making a difference for others. She combined her interior design skills, retail background, and dream of opening her own store with a platform to empower women and families.
In October 2022, Rehkamp published her family’s story in her book, “Finding Us, A Mother’s Memoir of Braving Mental Illness With Her Young Daughter.” That same month, she opened the boutique in Lake Elmo. The store offers jewelry, accessories, gifts, and apparel. La Vie Est Belle donates a percentage of its profits to support local youth mental health initiatives.
La Vie Est Belle partners with Happy Everything MN, owned by Debbie Opp
of White Bear Lake. Staedt said she has made it her mission to offer clothing that sparks happiness and helps people express their authentic selves with confidence and style. For more information about La Vie Est Belle, visit shoplavie.co.
Royal Credit Union named to Forbes list Royal Credit Union has been recognized on the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions 2025. America’s Best-In-State Credit Unions aims to showcase the institutions most valued by residents in each state and to recognize the credit unions that have excelled in meeting the needs of their local communities. The ranking is based on an independent survey of more than 26,000 U.S. customers.
Staedt
John Connerton White Bear Lake
CONTRIBUTED
Debbie Opp Staedt and Kristin Rehkamp.
COPS&COURTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents: Officers investigated felony-level theft in the 900 block of Wildwood Road June 25.
• Officers mediated a verbal domestic dispute in the 4000 block of Hazel Street June 25.
• A St. Paul man was cited for not having a driver's license following a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of White Bear Avenue and County Road F June 25.
• Harassment was reported in the 3100 block of Karth Road June 25.
• Officers responded to a report of theft in the 2000 block of County Road E June 25.
• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1900 block of Birch Street June 25.
• Officers mediated a civil problem in the 1700 block of Birch Lake Avenue June 25.
• Officers mediated a dispute between a man and a woman in the 3600 block of Bellaire Avenue June 25.
• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 4700 block of Highway 61 N. June 26.
• Officers responded to a report of a disorderly customer at a business in the 2000 block of County Road E June 26.
• Officers responded to a noise complaint June 26 in the 4000 block of Bellaire Avenue.
• A suspicious vehicle was reported in the area of Eugene Street and Second Avenue June 27.
• A Roseville man was cited for misdemeanor theft following a shoplifting incident in the 900 block of Wildwood Avenue June 27.
• A counterfeit bill was passed at a business in the 4500 block of Centerville Road June 27.
• Harassment was reported in the 1600 block of Fourth Street June 27.
• A warrant arrest was executed in the 3100 block of Karth Road June 27.
• Officers responded to a noise disturbance in the 2400 block of Martin Way June 27.
• A La Crosse, Wisconsin, man was
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Dellwood
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies on speed patrol along Dellwood Avenue at Echo Street, Peninsula Road and Hadley Avenue N. cited three motorists for that offense on May 18.
Grant:
• Deputies issued three traffic citations on May 18 –the first at 4:58 p.m. in the 8000 block of Manning Avenue N., for speeding; the second at 6:52 p.m. on 75th Street N. at Lake Elmo Avenue N. for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop
Thursday, July 10, 2025
6 p.m. - 9 p.m. | Rain or Shine! Downtown White Bear Lake www.marketfestwbl.com
Theme Week: WBL School Spirit Night
Sponsored by White Bear Lake Area Schools #624
Gazebo Stage
Sawyer’s Dream | 6-9 p.m.
Intermission - Inspiration Peforming Arts Center
3rd Street Stage Inside Straight | 6-9 p.m.
Intermission - Rare Form
Marketfest runs Thursdays, June 19 - July 31
Featuring live music, children’s games and activities, pony rides, a classic car show, and 180+ vendors, FREE admission
Sponsors: Kowalski’s Markets, Walser Polar Chevrolet & Mazda, Timberline Roofing, City of White Bear Lake, White Bear Lake Main Street, Frandsen Bank & Trust and Tommy’s Express Car Wash
arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near Interstate 694 and Century Avenue June 28.
Narcotics were reported in the 3900 block of Linden Street June 28.
• Disorderly conduct was reported June 29 in the 3100 block of Karth Road.
• Officers responded to a report of a woodchuck stuck in the backyard of a Dell Street residence June 29.
• Officers assisted with a civil standby in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive June 29.
• Officers responded to the 3800 block of Oak Terrace after a report of someone using a BB or paintball gun June 29.
• Ding-dong-ditchers were reported in the 4800 block of Stewart Avenue June 29.
• A vehicle was stolen in the 3900 block of Scheuneman Road June 30.
• Gasoline theft was reported in the 4400 block of White Bear Parkway June 30. Fraud was reported in the 4600 block of White Bear ParkwaLay June 30.
• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue June 30.
for improper license plate covers and the third at 7:07 p.m. on Jamaca Avenue N. and 75th Street N. for illegal windshield and side window tint.
• Employees at a business in the 11000 block of 60th Street N. turned in two wallets May 19 that were left at the bar the previous evening and never collected.
• Deputies were dispatched out to the scene of an unknown animal that would not leave the complainant alone at her residence in the 8000 block of Jeffrey Avenue N. on May 22. The animal was so aggressive the complainant became afraid of it. On arrival at the scene, deputies determined the animal to be a fisher, which is a type of weasel that despite its name, doesn’t eat fish. Deputies were able to contain the animal so that it could be brought to the animal sanctuary.
Mahtomedi
• May 18 was three traffic citation day in Mahtomedi as well, as three motorists were cited for speed – in the 300 block of Long Lake Road; on Long Lake Road and Dunbar Way and on 70th Street N. at Hilton Trail N. The third motorist was also nailed for permit violation and failure to provide proof of insurance.
• A pair of prescription shooting glasses in their black case was reported lost May 19 on Jesse James Lane.
• Deputies at 4:52 p.m. May 19 took a report of kids doing wheelies with their electric bikes in the Holiday gas station parking lot on Stillwater Road. Deputies spoke to the juveniles and told them not to do wheelies in the lot due to traffic and multiple
• A Maplewood woman was arrested for an outstanding warrant following a traffic stop in the 1900 block of County Road D June 30.
• An electric bike was stolen from a garage in the 2600 block of Riviera Drive S. July 1.
• Officers responded to a report of dogs off leash at Matoska Park July 1. The owners were warned.
• Officers responded to a report of disorderly conduct at a business in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road July 1.
• Officers mediated a verbal argument in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue July 1.
• A Toyota was stolen in the 3500 block of Century Avenue July 1.
• Officers mediated a dispute between a couple in the 3600 block of Bellaire Avenue July 1.
• Officers responded to a report of fireworks in the 3700 block of Little Linden Curve July 1, but were unable to locate the source.
complaints from customers. The youths said they understood and parked the bikes at the side of the store.
• There were either multiple groups of juveniles riding bikes in parking lots, or the same group of juveniles hightailed it to Long Lake Road to ride the parking lots at 5:11 p.m. May 19, according to a report.
• Deputies cited a motorist in the 3300 block of Century Avenue at 2:41 a.m. May 21 for a missing headlight and for expired registration. A second motorist was cited at 3:00 a.m. for driving after revocation.
• A fawn was reported for occupying a front doorstep on Wedgewood Drive on May 23. By the time deputies arrived to catch a glimpse of the fawn, it had left the property.
• With spring comes chaos in the animal world, and deputies, who had already answered the call of the wild to deal with a fisher, then a fawn, answered a request from Wildwood Road and Lincolntown Avenue on May 24 to rescue some orphaned ducks. Deputies directed the caller to wildlife refuge resources.
Pine Springs
• A motorist was arrested for DWI at 2:35 a.m. May 24 on eastbound Highway 36 at I-694 by deputies on routine patrol, who observed the subject’s vehicle stopped in the lane of traffic in the middle of the roundabout. During the traffic stop where the suspect was already stopped, deputies noticed signs of impairment about the driver and started running the driver through a round of standardized field sobriety tests.
• A motorist was cited for driving after cancellation May 24 on 60th Street N. and Hilton Trail N., following a single vehicle accident during which the driver hit a road sign. The driver had previously received many citations due to multiple violations.
Willernie
• Drivers continue to blow through or roll through the four-way stop sign at Stillwater Road at Warner Avenue N., as deputies pulled over four motorists for that violation on May 19. Three of the drivers were issued verbal warnings, and one driver was cited. The following day, an additional driver was cited for running the stop sign.
Loretta Harding
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Man arrested after motorcycle accident
At 11:26 p.m. on July 4, White Bear Lake Police Department officers responded to a vehicle vs. motorcycle accident with injuries near the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Lake Avenue.
Officers investigated and ultimately arrested a 49-year-old male from White Bear Lake for criminal vehicular operation and DWI. The male was booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center for the offenses.
The injured motorcyclist was transported to the hospital with minor, non-life-threatening injuries.
ZONING CODE: White Bear Lake City Council considers updates this month
Accessory dwelling units, often referred to as a mother-in-law unit or granny flat, currently are permitted under the home accessory apartment regulations. They require a conditional use permit and annual permit renewal, and they are limited to 880 square feet, or 40% of the principal dwelling.
The proposed changes would no longer require a conditional use permit or additional parking. The square footage percentage is proposed to increase to 50% of the principal dwelling.
“The changes proposed to the city’s regulations should make it easier to develop these going forward,” explained Kirk Bishop of Duncan Associates.
Short-term rentals will be added to the code. Currently, the city allows rental activity in all residential zones with a rental license, but it doesn’t distinguish between regular rental (30 days or longer) and short-term rental (fewer than 30 consecutive days).
Short-term rentals would be limited to six adults and their children and not allowed on lots with accessory dwelling units. A license and registry of guests would be required. The rentals could not be used to host events attended by others.
Commission Member Jim Berry asked if there was anything the city could do, such as putting in a minimum-stay requirement, so White Bear Lake doesn’t turn into “motel city.”
“The challenge before the city when crafting regulations is: How do we adapt to a changing economy and this use that has been put out into the world, but also make sure that we maintain the residential character and conditions of a particular neighborhood?” Lindahl said. “So, what the staff and the consultants have come up with are a set of regulations we feel address most of those things.”
Commission Member Scott Bill said he was concerned that short-term rentals could drive up the cost of homes in the area. “If you pay attention to any of the news in Spain and Portugal, and where all these Vrbos (vacation rentals by owners) are popping up left and right, they are driving the costs of homes up,” he said. He questioned if the consultants had thought about the long-term implications of somebody purchasing properties just to convert
them into short-term rentals to make an income.
“Now we have harder housing to find for our residents, and somebody who doesn’t even live in the neighborhood making money and turning a profit. That’s my concern,” he said.
Lindahl added that, currently, short-term rentals can operate within the city with a license, and the city hasn’t received a lot of complaints. “It doesn’t seem to be an issue right now,” he said. “That doesn’t mean it couldn’t change tomorrow.”
Notable changes proposed in the Zoning Code
1. New Lakeside Zone
2. Rename and expand the existing R-4 District
3. Adjustments to the Residential Zone
4. New Mixed-Use Zones
5. Accessory structures
6. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s)
7. Short-term rentals
8. Parking
9. Procedural changes
10. Reorganize Industrial Zones
11. Adjustments to the Cannabis standards
Commission Member Mark Lynch questioned whether, if changes were needed down the road, the city would have to change its zoning or could address them some other way. Lindahl explained there was a difference between zoning and licensing. The licensing requirements, which haven’t been
developed yet, could set a renewal period to give the city the ability to “tweak it as we go along.”
Resident Randall Johnson, a retired city planner, said he did not think the requirement for a conditional use permit should be removed from accessory dwelling units. “Those kinds of uses have the potential for negative impact on neighborhoods,” he said.
Resident Tim Geck suggested the city consider setting a minimum length of stay for short-term rentals.
“We all know about Airbnb, Vrbo. It is a new reality, and it is particularly a big deal with lakeside and any kind of property that has that kind of entertainment facility,” he said. “If you don’t have regulation, you are creating a situation where a single-family owner can take his residence and park a hotel, motel or resort in the middle of a single-family area where all the neighborhood has been living and conforming to neighborhood standards … and they don’t even have to live with the consequences.”
Resident Nancy Oakes said she was on the other side of the issue because she sometimes rents out her Cottage Park home on Airbnb.
“I’m a little confused about why this is so focused on lakeside Airbnb … That to me seems very discriminatory; that sounds like very exclusively managing an area of the city for wealthy people,” she said. “I have a minimum two-night stay and a maximum of seven (people), and I have not ever had a problem. I think you are getting into the weeds of some people’s business, their property and their rights to use their property.”
The Planning Commission ultimately recommended that the council approve the zoning code update as proposed with one amendment by a vote of 6-1 (Bill opposed). The amendment would require owner occupancy with accessory dwelling units.
The council was scheduled to hold a first reading of the zoning code changes on Tuesday, July 8, after press deadline. A second reading is tentatively planned for Tuesday, July 22.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Vadnais Heights Planning Commission will meet and conduct a public hearing on July 22, 2025 at 7:00 PM at Vadnais Heights City Hall, 800 County Road E East, to consider an application submitted by Orlin and Doreen Knudson for a Variance at 652 MARBLE ST (PIN 323022430042).
Anyone wishing to be heard in regard to this matter will be given an opportunity at this time. The application is available for public review at City Hall during normal business hours and will be posted on the City’s website in advance of the meeting. Questions or comments should be directed to Nolan Wall, Planning/Community Development Director, at 651-204-6027 or nolan. wall@cityvadnaisheights.com.
FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
Kevin P. Watson, City Administrator
Dated: July 9, 2025
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 9, 2025.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR A CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK
The City of Vadnais Heights requests qualification information in order to evaluate and select a Construction Manager at Risk for the renovation and expansion of the South Fire Station, located at 3595 Arcade Street. The current 20,000/sf station is 35 years old, and no longer meets the needs of VHFD’s staffing model, which includes 43 full-time and part-time fire staff working daytime and overnight shifts 24/7. The proposed redesign will add approximately 15,000/sf added to the first, second levels, and mezzanine with a proposed building footprint of 25,000/sf, and total square footage of almost 40,000. Full RFQ can be found at cityvadnaisheights.com/bids
Qualifications must be received by 10 a.m. July 11, 2025. Questions should be directed to Chief Kurt Frison at kurt.frison@ cityvadnaisheights.com or (651) 204-6043.
Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on June 25, July 2 and July 9, 2025.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Vadnais Heights City Council will meet and consider Ordinance No. 790: Repealing Cannabinoid Licensing at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at City Hall, 800 East County Road E. The materials are available for public review at City Hall during normal business hours. Questions or comments should be directed to Phillip Lundquist, Deputy City Clerk at phillip.lundquist@cityvadnaisheights.com or 651-204-6011.
FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
Kevin P. Watson, City Administrator
Dated: June 16, 2025
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 2 and 9, 2025.
DUININCK GOLF ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS RAMSEY COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION MANITOU RIDGE GOLF COURSE CART PATH COUNTY PROJECT # PRK0000020122
Duininck Golf invites prospective bidders to submit bids for an upcoming project at Manitou Ridge Golf Course for their new Cart Path Improvement Project. Manitou Ridge Golf Course is located at 3200 McKnight Rd. N, White Bear Lake, MN 55110
The construction work at Manitou Ridge Golf Course is expected to begin in September 2025 and finish no later than October 24, 2025. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held via Microsoft Teams on July 16, 2025, at 10:00 am CST. Use the following to join the meeting: Meeting ID: 219 669 664 233 2 Passcode: yS7eQ6WU
SEALED BIDS ONLY. Bids are required to be received in a sealed envelope. Bids shall be received at the Duininck Golf Office located at 1010 McKinley Pkwy, Delano, MN 55328 by August 06, 2025, by 3:00 pm. Bids received after this date and time will be returned unopened. Bids not sealed, filled out properly, or not on the appropriate scope documents are subject to rejection. Bids can be emailed to Kevin.Markhardt@Duininck.com. Bids shall be addressed to: Duininck Golf Attn: Kevin Markhardt, 1010 McKinley Pkwy, Delano, MN 55328
All Questions shall be submitted by July 30, 2025, an addendum will be issued by no later than August 01, 2025, addressing any questions. BID OPENING. All bids will be opened at 4:00 pm on August 6th, 2025. Bidders may attend virtually via Microsoft Teams: Meeting ID: 245 486 072 197 2 Passcode: u78gv9Q2
Bidders may request the plans and specifications from Duininck Golf. Email Kevin at Kevin.Markhardt@duininck.com. Electronic files will be available at no charge.
Bid Security in the amount of 5 percent of the amount of the Bid must be submitted and accompany each Bid in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. A plan set and specifications for viewing will be available in Duininck’s Conference room in Delano, MN.
This project requires Prevailing Wage in Ramsey County. Certified Payrolls shall be submitted through LCP TRACKER. Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press: July 2, 9, and 16, 2025. RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES JUNE 24, 2025
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 Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.
AGENDA of June 24, 2025 was presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by Jebens-Singh. Unanimously approved.
MINUTES of June 17, 2025 were presented for approval. Motion by Miller, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Miller.
ORDINANCE PROCEDURES
Human Resources – Proposed Ramsey County Commissioner’s Salary Ordinance for 2026 – Waive the Second Reading and Hold Public Hearing. Motion by Moran, seconded by Jebens-Singh. Unanimously approved. (B2025-132)
Chair Ortega opened the public hearing at 9:02 a.m. There was one speaker, Greg Copeland who testified in opposition to the proposed salary increase and expense allowance, which can be accessed via the archived video. The chair called three times for additional public comments. Hearing none, the chair closed the public hearing at 9:10 a.m.
The Ramsey County Home Rule Charter section 5.02 states each proposed ordinance shall receive two readings: first, at the time it is presented, and second, at the time of the public hearing as required by law. Both readings may be waived if a copy of the ordinance is supplied to each member of the Ramsey County Board prior to its introduction.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
Veterans Services – Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Veteran Affairs for the Functional Zero Project. Motion by Miller, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2025-122)
Human Resources – Sole Source agreement with the Metropolitan Council for Employee MetroPass. Motion by Miller, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2025-123)
Sheriff’s Office – Acceptance of Legislative Grant for Capitol Area Public Safety and Livability Initiative. Motion by Miller, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2025-124) County Manager’s Office – Minnesota Council on Local Results and Innovation’s Performance Measurement Program. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-125)
Sheriff’s Office – Agreement with Network Communications International Corp., dba NCIC Correctional Services for Inmate Communication Services. Motion by Miller, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved. (B2025-126)
Sheriff’s Office – Agreement with Taher, Inc. for Micro Market Services. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025127)
County Attorney’s Office – Grant Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the Crossover/Dual Status Youth Grants 2025 Program. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-128)
County Attorney’s Office – Grant Agreement with the Minnesota Office of Justice Programs for the Restorative Practices Initiatives Grant Program 2025. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2025-129) 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 10:18 a.m.
CLOSED MEETING
Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 13D.05, subdivision 3(b) in order to discuss Ching Vang v. Ramsey County matter, the Ramsey County Board met in a closed meeting, which was not open to the public.
In Re: Ching Vang v. Ramsey County
The Closed Meeting was called to order at 10:37 a.m.
Present: Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega. Also Present: Ling Becker, County Manager; Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office; Kristine Nogosek, Assistant County Attorney, Brett Bacon Assistant County Attorney, Kevin Plaisance, Assistant County Attorney; Alex Kotze, Deputy County Manager, Health and Wellness Service Team; David Metusalem, Chief Deputy Sheriff, Ramsey County sheriff’s Office; Deanna Pesik, Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer, Compliance and Ethics Office; Mandy Malecek, Enterprise Risk Manager, Compliance and Ethics Office; Jason Yang, Chief Clerk, County Manager’s Office.
The Board of Ramsey County Commissioner authorized the Ramsey County staff to proceed as discussed in this closed meeting (Resolution B2025-130)
Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved.
The closed meeting was adjourned at 11:17 a.m.
CLOSED MEETING
Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 13D.05, subdivision 3(b) in order to discuss Breen matter, the Ramsey County Board met in a closed meeting, which was not open to the public.
In Re: Breen Matter
The Closed Meeting was called to order at 11:19 a.m.
Present: Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega. Also Present: Ling Becker, County Manager; Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office; Kristine Nogosek, Assistant County Attorney, Brett Bacon Assistant County Attorney, Kevin Plaisance, Assistant County Attorney; Alex Kotze, Deputy County Manager, Health and Wellness Service Team; David Metusalem, Chief Deputy Sheriff, Ramsey County sheriff’s Office; Mandy Malecek, Enterprise Risk Manager, Compliance and Ethics Office; Jason Yang, Chief Clerk, County Manager’s Office.
The Board of Ramsey County Commissioner authorized the Ramsey County staff to proceed as discussed in this closed meeting (Resolution B2025-131)
Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved. The closed meeting was adjourned at 12:03 p.m.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 9, 2025.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE
SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES
Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar as an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Section 331A.03 of the Minnesota Statutes. Individuals may go to the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” section of the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage at ramseycounty.us/ContractWithRamsey to access registration information. If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the DemandStar registration instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” webpage. Access to all Ramsey County documents is free if the instructions that are posted are followed. You may call 651-266-8072 or email ProcurementTeam@ ramseycounty.us if you need assistance.
Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan
SOLICITATION: RFB-PRMG34685-0-2025/KB
OPENING DATE: 7/17/25
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A PRIME CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ALL SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, MATERIAL, LABOR AND INCIDENTALS FOR THE LANDMARK CENTER LOADING DOCK IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT.
PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: LANDMARK CENTER FRONT ENTRANCE, 75 W 5TH STREET, ST PAUL, MN 55102, JULY 17, 2025, 9:00 AM CST SOLICITATION: RFB-PRMG34607-0-2025/KB
OPENING DATE: 8/7/25
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT SEEKS A PRIME CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ALL SUPPLIERS, MATERIAL, EQUIPMENT, LABOR, AND INCIDENTALS FOR RAMSEY COUNTY COURTHOUSE/CITY OF ST PAUL CITY HALL JUDICIAL CHAMBERS CONSTRUCTION PROJECT.
PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: ST PAUL CITY HALL/ RAMSEY COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 15 WEST KELLOGG BLVD, LOBBY, ST PAUL, MN 55102, JULY 21, 2025, 8:30 AM CST
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 9, 2025. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-526
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:
Marjorie T. Binder, a/k/a Marjorie Trott Binder and Marjorie Dale Trott, Decedent. NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. until 1:45 p.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 Julie Pitsenbarger, whose address is 506 Elaine Ave., Shoreview, Minnesota 55126, 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: Michael F. Upton, Dsitrict Court Administrator
BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator
Date: June 16, 2025
Attorney for Petitioner: Cameron R. Kelly Cummins & Bonestroo Law Office, PLLC 2251 Tower Dr. W., Ste. 100
Stillwater, MN, 55082
Attorney License No: 032873X
Telephone: (651) 328-8671
FAX: (651) 430-2813
Email: ckelly@cblawoffices.com
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 2 and 9, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION
COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-487
NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of: Colleen Marie Smith, Decedent.
NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 2:15 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated August 6, 2018 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Michael Steven Smith, whose address is 16040 15th Street S., Afton, Minnesota 55001, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.
Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
Any objections to the Petition or WiII must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.
Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.
NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons 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: Michael Upton, Court Administrator BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator
Date: June 2, 2025
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 2 and 9, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-563
NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of: Ingeburg E. Hix, Decedent. NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 from 1:30 p.m until 1:45 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of aninstrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated February 14, 2025 (“Will”), and for theappointment of James L. Clasen, whose address is 1896 Field Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55116, aspersonal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.
Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.
Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.
NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons 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: Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator Benjamin Linker, Deputy Court Administrator
Date: June 26, 2025
Petitioner is a Self-Represented Litigant: James L. Clasen 1896 Field Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55116
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 9 and 16, 2025. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-498
CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE
NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of Helen E. Stub, a/k/a Helen Elizabeth Stub and Helen Stub, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:
Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on June 19, 2025 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated January 20, 2022 (“Will”) has been filed with the Probate Court, and the Amended Application has been granted.
Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Peter Juhl 1536 Skyline Drive Eagan MN 55121 as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.
Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.
Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar
Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator
Date: June 23, 2025 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on July 2 and 9, 2025.
Homespun Independence Day tradition
Above: The percussion section of the marching band helps keep the beat of the recent annual Independence Day Parade in Birchwood Village. The grassroots, community event has been celebrated for more than 50 years.
Top photo: Henry Ferry’s distinctive red, white and blue hat was visible above the crowd gathered in Birchwood Village as he traveled in a prime parade viewing position on his mother Claire’s shoulders.
while leading the parade.
Mahtomedi approves crack sealing project
The City Council has awarded a contract to low bidder Asphalt Surface Technologies Corporation for $23,428 for the 2025 crack sealing project. The project
Movie in the Park
will include Historic District 1, 2, 3 and 4. Public Works Director Bob Goebel said the project has yet to be scheduled, but he is anticipating the project will occur in late July or early August.
White Bear Lake maintains Highway 61 medians
The city of White Bear Lake is expected to spend approximately $77,700 on maintaining the medians along Highway 61 within the city limits in 2025. Beginning in April, a contractor performs cutbacks
•
•
on the planting beds in preparation for the summer growing season. Then from May through September, planting beds are weeded on a monthly basis. While the work is performed, periodic lane closures occur to ensure the workers’ safety. The work typically takes about six hours to complete, depending on the number of workers the contractor has available.
Approximately $12,000 to $15,000 of that budget is for the rental of message boards to provide advance warnings of the closures, a requirement by MnDOT. Maintenance was just performed at the end of June, so crews will likely be out there again at the of July.
Dr. Jason P. Ross Dr. Ellen D. Jacobson Dr. Kali Hildebrand
White Bear food shelf participates in summer challenge
The White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf will participate in the 16th annual Open Your Hearts to the Hungry and Homeless Summer Challenge. The challenge is a grant initiative that provides
matching funds of up to $4,000 to participating Minnesota food shelves throughout July. Participating food shelves raised nearly $3 million during July 2024—making the challenge one of
Annual Lions Club Show:
Bear Water Run: Scan the QR codes above or go to www.whitebearlions.org to get details on Our annual Bear Water Run in September, the show, STARTREKed, coming in March 2026 or to get more information on how you can join us in our efforts to serve the community.
the state’s most impactful funding initiatives of its kind. For a full list of participants or to get involved, visit oyh.org/summer-challenge.
White Bear Lake Area Church Directory
&
651*/765*6313
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Drive or walk by Cedar Street near Sunrise Park Middle School in White Bear Lake, and you will find a 4-foot-tall bear named Wanda dressed for almost any occasion.
Wanda dresses up for most holidays, high school graduation, back-to-school time, and summer. Wanda’s owner, Karrie Galetka, said she is always thinking about what Wanda will wear next.
Galetka has lived in her home for a little more than two years. According to the bottom of Wanda, she was made by Western Statue Ornaments Inc. in Manitoba, Canada, in 2000. Galetka said there is some “controversy” related to Wanda’s relocation and her price, but it is believed that Wanda was moved approximately 4 blocks from a home on Cranbrook Drive to her current location on Cedar Avenue back in 2022.
“I heard that they bought her for $200,” Galetka said. “I’ve
heard different stories … like how some of the dogs were confused when Wanda was no longer on the same corner.”
For Galetka, dressing up Wanda comes down to creating joy. “There is not enough joy in the world, and if I can bring a little sparkle of that to somewhere … I’m all in,” she explained.
Galetka, who works in information technology, loves being creative. Although her son is grown now, she said he had only one Halloween costume that she didn’t make herself.
This summer marks Galetka’s third year of decorating Wanda. Her favorite costume is one of her summer outfits, which features a coconut bra, hula skirt, big drink and sunglasses. “That’s probably my favorite because it is easy to add things on,” she explained.
Galetka said she is trying to come up with outfits for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Thanksgiving. “I just haven’t figured out how to do the feathers yet,” she said of the last.
Wanda both brings joy and serves as a distraction from the radiation treatment Galetka is undergoing for breast cancer. “You have to find those little pieces of joy however you can,” she said. “Wanda is too fun for radiation to get in the way.”
Wanda can be spotted on
GET BOOST IN FINITE! Unlimited talk text and data for just $25/mo! The power
range a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Herita ge for the Blin d Today at 844/220-9501 today!
WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not Titled or not Will pick
855/562-4309 SAFE STEP NORTH Amer icas #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and se rvice. Now featuring our FR EE shower pa ckage and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call to day! Financing available. Call Safe Step 833/96638 82
Cedar Avenue, or you can follow her adventures on her Facebook page.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
One of Karrie Galetka’s favorite outfits for Wanda is her summer outfit which features a coconut bra and hula skirt.
Karrie Galetka of White Bear Lake takes a selfie with Wanda.
Are you tired of leaks, clogs, and unreliable plumbing? It’s time to elevate your home’s plumbing with PLUMBERMARK. We offer solutions designed to tackle any plumbing challenge head-on. Choose Mark Lohre, your local WBL plumber.
UNMATCHED Expertise: I am a licensed professional, with thirteen years of experience and training. I handle the toughest issues quickly and effectively.
Top-Quality Materials: I believe in delivering nothing but the best. That means all our services come with high quality materials. So say goodbye to temporary fixes and hello to lasting solutions!
Transparent Pricing: Just straight talk and honest pricing, so you know exactly what your paying for.
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed: I don’t just complete jobs; we build relationships. Your satisfaction is our mission at PLUMBERMARK. Don’t let plumbing issues disrupt your life any longer.
Choose PLUMBERMARK for reliable plumbing services and remodeling. Contact us today!
I C E D I R E C T O R Y
OBITUARIES
Claudia L. Engstran
Age 82 of White Bear Lake passed away June 4, 2025 from an infection. Preceded in death by her husband Darold, sister Mary Quast, brothers Jerry and John Hambrick. Survived by sons Paul (Karri), Thomas, Steven (Christina), grandchildren Meghan (Andrew), Emily, Kaitlyn, Marcus, Bethany, greatgrandson Carter, sister-inlaw Angie Gustad and many nieces and nephews.
Gathering of family and friends Wednesday, July 23, 2025 4-7 PM at Honsa Family Funeral Home, 2460 East County Road E, White Bear Lake. Private family interment Fort Snelling National Cemetery. No Flowers Please. Arrangements by Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172.
Bill Walton
Age 80 of Hugo Husband, Dad, Grandpa & Brother, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025. Preceded in death by son, Justin; parents, Howard & Opal; brothers, Bob, Jim. Survived by his wife of 59 years, Jean; son Jake (Jen); grandchildren, Kaleb, Kylee; 4 siblings; many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends. Bill was born on May 5, 1945, in Glenburn, near Minot, North Dakota. Being raised on a farm, Bill developed a deep respect for the land and a lifelong love for animals. He graduated from Glenburn High School in 1963, and just a few years later, on June 4, 1966, married Beverly Jean Garner, in Osceola, Iowa. That same year, Bill was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he proudly served from 1966 to 1969, including a tour in Vietnam from June 1967 to June 1968. He was honorably discharged in August 1969 at Fort Hood, Texas. In 1971, Bill began his 24-year career with the St. Paul Police Department, serving until his retirement in 1995. During that time, he also launched Walton & Sons Construction, specializing in insulation and home renovation. Bill also owned and operated a recycling business. In 1979, Bill and Jean purchased land in White Bear Township and started a hobby farm, where Bill’s passion for animals flourished. In 1990, they founded Animals of Walton’s Hollow, a beloved pony ride and petting zoo business that brought joy to families across the metro. Whether driving his team of cherished Norwegian Fjord horses or tending to his beloved Great Pyrenees dogs, Highlander cattle and mini baby donkeys, Bill’s deep connection with animals was evident to all who knew him. After retiring, Bill and Jean enjoyed traveling. He was a member of the White Bear and Hugo Lions Clubs, Forest Lake American Legion, and the Manes and Tails Harness Club.
Bill’s life will be celebrated with a service at 6 PM Thursday, July 10th with visitation beginning at 4 PM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. A private Interment will take place Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations that will be made to a local cause in Bill’s honor. Roberts Family Funeral Home 651-4644422 RobertsFamilyFH.com
Gerald “Jerry”Tubman
Age 82 of White Bear Lake. Passed away on May 27, 2025
He was a veteran & electrician. Survived by his brothers, children, grandchildren & great grandchild. Interment Thursday, July 17th at 11:30 am at Fort Snelling National Cemetery- meet at Assembly Area #3 by 11:15 am. All are also welcome to attend and celebrate Memorial Service at his residence in White Bear Lake at 1:30 pm. Luncheon will be served following the service. He is LOVED and will be missed. Arrangements MuellerMemorial.com ~ 651-429-4944
White Bear Center for the Arts gets a fresh new look
A fresh canvas.
A bare pedestal.
A blank page.
An empty frame.
A window.
The rectangle in White Bear Center for the Arts’ (WBCA) new logo represents all of these and more. It symbolizes the limitless potential that lives within WBCA, waiting for you to make your mark. Since its founding in 1968, WBCA has been a vessel for creation, a space where artists and community members come together to imagine, explore and create. The new logo embraces that spirit. You’ll often see it as a simple, open rectangle, evoking boundless opportunities for creativity. At other times, it will be filled with images that highlight the vibrancy of artistic expression at WBCA, offering a glimpse into the many ways art comes to life.
The clean, sharp lines of the rectangle are balanced by the hand-carved quality of the lettering—a nod to the dual nature of the WBCA’s mission: the elevation of art through our exceptional exhibitions, and the joyful, tactile messiness of art-making itself.
WBCA Executive Director Chris Scholl oversaw the redesign process and is excited for the potential that the new logo creates. “Our new logo is a fresh expression of WBCA’s creative spirit,” Scholl said, “rooted in our rich history and open to endless possibilities. Its simple form gives us the freedom to adapt, evolve, and make space for every kind of artmaking.”
Longtime supporters might recognize subtle references to WBCA’s earlier brand identities. The new typeface pays homage to the original logo used until 2005, with its woodcut aesthetic and approachable, handcrafted feel. WBCA also kept the color purple, which has been a major component of its brand for the last 20 years, while expanding the palette with additional vibrancy.
The artist behind the new look
Genie Hien Tran is an interdisciplinary artist based in Minneapolis. She was born in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in 1996 and grew up there before migrating to the U.S. at 16. Tran received her bachelor’s degree in illustration at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2018 and a master’s degree in visual arts at Minneapolis College of Art and Design in 2022. She has exhibited at many galleries, including an exhibit at WBCA in 2023 titled, "Second Sources."
“I'm incredibly honored and excited to collaborate with WBCA on this new journey of branding the art center,” she says. “I hope to see this logo, as well as the new branding, become recognizable simultaneously with WBCA. During the design process, I did a lot of research and looked back at the art center's history and used that history and story to inform the work. The design, therefore, aims to reflect on the past in order to craft a fresh and welcoming future. I'm excited to see the places it will take WBCA, the artworks it will help highlight, the artists that it will be in conversations with, and the community that it will be supporting. Thank you for letting me be a part of this journey!”
White Bear Center for the Arts
Genie Hien Tran
Like many movie goers, Andrew Epperson, likes Ghostbusters: the 1984 comedy starring Bill Murray, Rick Moranis, Harold Ramis and Dan Aykroyd. Andrew joined a local group of fans to celebrate all things Ghostbusters. But Andrew wanted to make his passion for Ghostbusters into something with an even deeper meaning– to have an impact on the community. So, he and his fellow fans worked with fundraisers, walks, even the Wounded Warriors, but didn’t find one the really fit with them. Their team, called the Nomad Ghostbusters of Minnesota delights kids at local parades, toy drives and birthday parties in their Ghostbusters’ costumes as well as adults at sci-fi conventions and the Totally Rad vintage fest with fun and of course photos. Bringing smiles to kids wasn’t enough, they sought more. At the invitation of Tami Siebert, a Development Manager for your American Cancer Society, they joined the Relay For Life Movement, the largest volunteer-driven fundraiser in the world. Andrew, like many of us, has lost too many to cancer, he says “find me a person who cancer hasn’t touched.” Fighting cancer seemed like the perfect fit for his crew.
They’ve marched in the Manitou Days parade, and held an event at WB Township theater to raise funds.
Each year, White Bear Lake and the surrounding communities, light luminaries, small white bags with the name of someone we’ve lost to cancer or who is fighting and lit by a small light that glows against the night sky in testimony to each cancer battle fought. On July 25, Relay of White Bear Lake, started by local residents Keith & Patty Warner, will celebrate its 31st year. Come join the Nomad Ghostbusters and hundreds of your friends and neighbors at this moving and fun community event.
What is your special talent? Won’t you consider adding it to raise funds to find a cure? Please join this army of purple warriors who gather to celebrate, remember and commit to ending cancer. Please donate a luminary in honor or in memory of someone you love and invite a cancer Survivor to join you.
Due to popular demand, this year’s event starts earlier, at 3PM. This year’s theme pays tribute to another popular movie, The Wizard of Oz – “Lions and Tigers and White Bears, oh my! There’s no place like HOPE.” Participants are encouraged to join in on this theme including a “milking contest” of an (artificial) cow much like the one that went up in the Tornado with Dorothy. In addition to our usual Live Music, food trucks, bouncy house, this year we’ve added Irish Dancers, Sustainable Safari, remote control car racing and much more! It’s a fun afternoon/evening for all ages- especially for cancer Survivors, their caregivers and families.
To donate or for more information go to www.wbrelay. org Thank you to our passionate participants, our dedicated sponsors noted below and to White Bear Lake Area Schools.
Junior college All-American for national runner-up
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Seth Nelson, of Mahtomedi, earned junior college baseball All-American recognition after helping Century College in White Bear Lake place runner-up in the nation this season. The sophomore second baseman was named to the NJCAA Division III AllAmerican first team and got the Gold Glove award. He will continue his college career at Concordia-St. Paul.
Nelson batted .387 with 15 home runs, 18 doubles and 64 RBI’s in 57 games for the Wood Ducks. At second base, he had just four errors and took part in 12 double plays.
Century had a 46-11 record, won the Region 13 tournament in St. Cloud and reached the finals at NJCAA Division III nationals in Auburn, New York. They won three of five games, losing twice to champion Rowan College of New Jersey. NJCAA Division III is for
MAHTOMEDI SPORTS BRIEFS
Following is a list of some recent successes by Mahtomedi graduates who play on college teams.
Bryce Fitzpatrick closed his wrestling career at St. Cloud State with an eighth-place finish in the NCAA Division II meet at 184 pounds. Fitzpatrick was 18-9 with three pins this year, and 51-24 in his career.
Caden Donahue, junior goalie for the Lewis University (Illinois) lacrosse team, had a 12-4 record, .575 save percentage and 9.09 goals-againstaverage.
Colin Hagstrom closed his lacrosse career at Notre Dame as the backup face-off specialist, winning 30 of 71 attempts and scoring two goals. The Irish, national champions last season, were 9-5 this year and didn’t reach nationals.
Jonah McCormick, former all-state hurdler for the Zephyrs, was a freshman on the Minnesota State-Mankato track team this spring. He placed 10th in the 60 meter hurdles in the NSIC indoor meet and 18th in the 400 meter hurdles
CENTURY COLLEGE | CONTRIBUTED
Seth Nelson swung a big bat for Century College, including 25 home runs in two seasons.
non-scholarship teams.
Nelson also had a strong freshman season in 2024, batting.384 with 10 homers, 46 runs and 50 RBI’s in 49 games. The Wood Ducks were 36-17.
At Mahtomedi, Nelson played for two state tournament teams that placed second and fifth. This summer, he is playing for the North St. Paul Snowmen.
at the NSIC outdoor meet.
Ethan Loss, junior wide receiver on the Butler University football team, caught 33 passes for 570 yards and a team-leading six touchdowns, including 71 and 51 yard scores.
Will Underwood, who averaged 19 points for a 25-4 Zephyr basketball team as a senior, red-shirted this year at Wake Forest. Last year, he appeared briefly in six games as a freshman for the Division I team.
Victoria Nelson, freshman first baseman for the St. Scholastica softball team, batted .289 with 22 hits and 10 RBI’s.
Josh Donna, freshman infielder at Iowa Western Community College, batted .380 with 19 hits, 14 runs, 14 RBI’s, seven steals. He had just one error in 162 chances and seven double plays.
Jack Erickson, freshman first baseman for national junior college runner-up Century College, batted .281 with 25 RBI’s and 28 runs in 39 games.
Bruce Strand
Following is an update of White Bear Lake graduates who played on college teams this past school year.
Jack Janicki, White Bear Lake’s lone 2,000-point scorer, was a freshman guard for the Wisconsin Badgers after a red-shirt season. He worked his way into the rotation and played all 37 games, averaging 11.4 minutes. He logged 70 points, 50 rebounds and 31 assists, shooting 13-for-47 on three’s. High games were 11 points in a win over No. 7 Purdue and nine in a win over No. 8 Arizona. Wisconsin was 28-10 overall and 13-7 in the Big Ten.
William LeMire was an all-NSIC offensive lineman on the Bemidji State football team for the third straight season. The 6-foot-3, 300-pound senior helped Bemidji post a 10-4 record, averaging 186 yards rushing and 160 passing. For the Bears, LeMire was allconference in football and lacrosse as a goalie.
Chloe Barber, pitcher and slugger who led White Bear Lake to softball state tournaments in 2022 and 2023, will pitch for University of Kansas next year, having transferred after two seasons with Wichita State. She had a 5-7 record this year and 5.99 ERA, 68 strikeouts and 62
walks in 73.67 innings, and elected to enter the transfer portal. Heidi Barber, an all-stater with the Bears, was a backup catcher as a freshman at UConn this year. She was 4-for-27 at the plate with four RBI’s in 27 games. UConn was 32-17. Jaeda Jensen, freshman attacker for the Detroit Mercy lacrosse team, notched 16 goals and five assists, and started all 15 games, for the Titans, who finished 6-9. Derrick Smith, North Carolina State relief pitcher, missed most of the 2025 season with an injury, after an excellent sophomore season in 2024. Smith reportedly has entered the transfer portal with one season of eligibility left. The 6-foot-2 right-hander posted eight saves last year, three of them in the NCAA tournament, and had a 3-2 record, striking out 41 batters in 29.67 innings. This season he threw just three innings, with eight strikeouts and six walks, allowing two runs. NC State press releases said he had “an undisclosed injury.”
Sam Verkerke closed his running career at UW-Eau Claire placing fifth in the Division III nationals in 3:50.27. His best time was 3:47.92.
Bruce Strand
Weekly Outlook
Weather Tidbits
Frank Watson
WHITE BEAR LAKE SPORTS BRIEFS