Press Publications 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Hurt on the Job? Workman’s comp?
Dr. Dustin Carlson, DC
CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 9 CIRCLE PINES, MN
2024
WINNER Best of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
651-762-8040 carlsonchiro.net 2130 2nd Street White Bear Lake
847424
No referral needed!
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2025 VOL. 50 NO. 10 www.vadnaisheightspress.com $1.00
HOLIDAY LIGHTS CONTEST: Time running out to enter PAGE 10
District’s budget discussion brings conflicting numbers, viewpoints BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The White Bear Lake Area School Board is approving its 2026 tax levy of just under $73,600,000—a 4.4% increase from 2025. Due to the district’s increased tax capacity, however, the average homeowner and apartment landlord will see less than a 4.4% increase on their tax statements. “When you have an increase in net tax capacity across the school district areas … you have more businesses and more homes, then it gets spread out among more people,” said Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald. At the most recent school board meeting, Wald presented both the finalized tax levy as well as the two main reasons behind its increase: a state funding gap for special education and state revenue formulas that have not kept up with inflation. During discussion of the budget’s approval, Board Member Dan Skaar presented an alternative set of numbers that suggested ISD 624 did not have the funding gaps Wald cited. Immediately after this statement, Board Member Angela Thompson cited a third set of numbers, which stated that Wald had actually underestimated the district’s funding gaps.
Santas and elves volunteer for the holidays
Budget presentation
“One of the greatest challenges we face in public school finances is that state funding has not kept pace with inflation since 2003,” Wald said, referencing the
PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Bill Foussard, the White Bear Lake Rotary and their expansive team of volunteer Santas and elves are preparing to serve area senior citizens during the annual Dinner with Santa event Monday, Dec. 22 at the White Bear Country Inn. The private event, which has become a local holiday tradition, features dinner, dessert and entertainment, including Christmas Carol singalongs. Volunteer Santas, Mrs. Clauses and elves with their own costumes are still welcome to join the festive community event by calling 651-272-3783.
SEE TRUTH IN TAXATION, PAGE 8
White Bear Lake finalizes 2026 levy, approves 8.92% increase BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — The final levy for 2026 is $74,000 less than the preliminary levy that was set in September. “Staff has prepared a budget that aligns with the strategic plan and needs of the community,” City Manager Lindy Crawford said, noting that per City Council request, city staff has worked hard to “sharpen their pencils” over the last few months to try to find any potential reductions. The 2026 levy reflects an 8.82% increase, $1,230,000 more than the 2025 levy. That can be broken down to: • $872,987 for general operations, including personnel and benefit expenses
2024
2023
2022
of the Press
of the Press
FINALIST Best of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
• $241,000 for debt service related to the 2025 street reconstruction project and equipment certificates for the replacement of a fire engine • $37,000 for public safety facility debt service • $79,013 for one IT technician position The median-value residential home in White Bear Lake is currently $349,400, a $15,200 increase above the 2024 median value home of $334,200. The 2026 city tax burden on this property is $1,068.78, an $103.40 increase above the previous year. When it comes to per capita collection, Crawford pointed out that the city of White Bear Lake remains at the bottom of the list when compared to other cities. “White Bear Lake has a greater population than SEE CITY BUDGET, PAGE 13
34%
22%
CONTRIBUTED
This pie chart breaks down where the resident’s tax dollar goes: 37% goes to White Bear Lake Area Schools, followed by 22% for the city of White Bear Lake, 34% to Ramsey or Washington county and 7% goes to other tax entities like the Metropolitan Council and watershed districts.
STOP SAVE
see store for details
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
THE BEST SERVICE • SELECTION • VALUE
NOW HIRING ALL POSITIONS
846598
Temporary Hours: 7:30am - 5pm M-F • 7:30am - 2pm Sat • GPMINNESOTAWHOLESALE.COM
NEWS 651-407-1230 vadnaisheightsnews@presspubs.com
OIL, FILTER, LUBE, 4 TIRE ROTATION
3699
$
3955 Highway 61, White Bear Lake, MN (651) 426-4518 CIRCULATION 651-407-1234 circ@presspubs.com
37%
On Sale Now
BEST OF THE PRESS White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
7%
ADVERTISING 651-407-1200 marketing@presspubs.com
See store for details
+ 2.00 shop supplies/2.00 waste oil filter disposal. Oil filter: up to 5 qts. of SW30. Rotate 4 tires. Check air pressure. 20 pt. Safety Inspection. Must Have Coupon. Exp. 12/31/25
49 $ 99 79
CLASSIFIED 651-407-1250 classified@presspubs.com
99
Wheel & Tire SPECIALS Going on Now
ASE Certified Mechanics • Alignment
Offer Excludes
$
&
Full Syn Ams Oil
• Select Batteries Napa & Interstate
$1000
OFF UP TO
• Brakes $3000 PER See store OFF AXLE for details
PRODUCTION 651-407-1239 art@presspubs.com
Expires 12/31/25
2 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
POLITICAL BRIEF
Your Local
New director of Program Integrity will partner with WayPoint
Meteorologist Frank Watson’s
Gov. Tim Walz has announced that Tim O’Malley will join the state as director of program integrity. O’Malley, a judge, former superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), former FBI agent, and reformer in the archdiocese, O’Malley will work across state government to strengthen fraud prevention and protect taxpayer dollars. Gov. Walz also announced a state partnership with third-party experts at WayPoint Inc. to implement a statewide fraud prevention program. WayPoint Inc. is a White Bear Lake-based professional service firm composed of former law enforcement and federal special agents, which specializes in forensic
2026 Weather Calendar
accounting, financial investigations, due diligence, business risk mitigation, health care compliance and investigations, and tax litigation support. WayPoint professionals investigate, analyze and provide solutions for complex financial and business issues. WayPoint will advise the development of: • Consistent investigative and reporting policies and procedures across state agencies; • A fraud prevention program that can be implemented across state agencies; • Formalized data sharing among state agencies in alignment with federal and state law to more quickly identify those committing fraud across multiple state programs; and • Specialized skills and/or positions needed for agencies to review, audit and investigate state program fraud.
Calender features data on temperature, rainfall, snowfall, climate, phenology and astronomy
2025
826433
4715 Hwy 61 • White Bear Lake 651.888.2541 mathnasium.com
3 REASONS NOT TO GO 3 REASONS NOT TO GO TO THE DENTIST! 3TO REASONS NOT TO GO THE DENTIST! (AND REASONS TO THE3 DENTIST!
(AND 3 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD!) (AND 3 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD!) 1 WHY YOU SHOULD!) FEAR
1 FEAR “The staff are all amazing, caring, and 1 FEAR compassionate Dr.caring, Anderson “The staff are allpeople. amazing, andis one of thestaff bestare pain-free, accommodating compassionate Dr.caring, Anderson one “The allpeople. amazing, andisdentist Iofhave ever had, and I accommodating amDr. noAnderson spring chicken! the best pain-free, compassionate people. isdentist one I have my forever dentist.” T.G chicken! I have ever pain-free, had, and I accommodating am no spring of thefound best dentistI found my forever dentist.” T.G Ihave have ever had, and I am no spring chicken! I 2 COST have found my forever dentist.” T.G 2 COST “Everyone at White Bear Smiles is fantastic! 2 COST Both dentists reallyBear knowSmiles their stuff, so “Everyone at White is fantastic! you go seeing Dr. Swift orsoDr. Bothcan’t dentists reallyBear knowSmiles their stuff, “Everyone at wrong White is fantastic! Anderson. They alsoseeing havetheir an you can’t go wrong Dr.excellent Swift Both dentists really know stuff,orsoDr. membership program available for people Anderson. They alsoseeing have an you can’t go wrong Dr. excellent Swift or Dr. that don’t have dental insurance, sopeople it’s membership program available for Anderson. They also have an excellent easy to gethave your teeth insurance, taken carefor ofpeople without that don’t dental so it’s membership program available breaking the bank!” L.Rinsurance, easydon’t to get your teeth taken care so of it’s without that have dental breaking theyour bank!” L.Rtaken care of without easy to get teeth 3 breaking the bank!” L.R PAIN 3 PAIN “Amazing dental hygienists, and great 3 PAIN dentists! I dental neededhygienists, a wisdomand tooth removed “Amazing great and multiple fillings. The staff worked well dentists! I dental needed a wisdom tooth removed “Amazing hygienists, and great together, it was completely painless. and multiple fillings. The stafftooth worked well dentists! Iand needed a wisdom removed Definitely cured my dental anxiety!” Dan together, and it was completely painless. and multiple fillings. The staff worked well Definitelyand cured my dental anxiety!” Dan together, it was completely painless. Definitely cured my dental anxiety!” Dan
Google us Google us and discover why Google us and discover why White Bear Smiles and discover why White Bear Smiles is a top choice in White Bear Smiles isthe a top choice in community! isthe a top choice in community! the community!
651-426-8998 651-426-8998 WhiteBearSmiles.com 651-426-8998 WhiteBearSmiles.com
WhiteBearSmiles.com Receive a FREE Sonicare by mentioning the Sonicare White Bear Receive a FREE by Receive a FREE Sonicare by Press when scheduling. mentioning the White Bear mentioning the White Bear Press when scheduling. Press when scheduling. 2024
2024 WINNER 2024 WINNER WINNER Best of the Press
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
Best of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
846603 831704831704831704
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
Best of the Press
824242
For Locations and ordering visit WeathermanWatson.com or call 651-206-5364
847933
Watson’s weekly weather is featured in Press Publications
DECEMBER 17, 2025
WHAT’S HAPPENING www.presspubs.com
CURRENT EVENTS FESTIVAL OF TREES
When: Tuesday through Saturday through Dec. 20. Where: White Bear Lake Aromory, 2228 4th St. Details: See more than 30 trees decorated by local businesses and organizations. Make sure to vote for your favorite tree. Contact: whitebearhistory.org
‘STILLWATER CHRISTMAS CAROL’
CONTRIBUTED
VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD SHELF AND HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE
When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 E. County Road F
Details: Distribution of food to any family
in need and considered low income. May register day of event. Contact: 651-246-3638 or cityvadnaisheights. com/foodshelf
When: 7 p.m. Dec. 17, 18, 19, 20, 22 and 23; 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 Where: The Grand Banquet Hall, 301 2nd St., Stillwater Details: Classic holiday tale with a hometown twist, performed by Zephyr Theatre. Cash bar and food available for purchase. Ticket information online. Contact: stillwaterzephyrtheatre.org
A HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE FROM DEBBIE O'KEEFE & THE CENTURY COLLEGE ORCHESTRA
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Big band and solo guest performances of favorite holiday classics. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
THE EAST POINTERS
When: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 19 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Performance by awardwinning band from Canada, with rising indie-folk artist Norah Shea. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
22ND ANNUAL SIMPLEGIFTS ‘CHRISTMASTIDE’
When: Dec. 19-21 Where: Marine Village Hall, 121 Judd St., Marine on St. Croix Details: Billy McLaughlin and SimpleGifts annual Christmas performance includes modern arrangements of carols and hymns with 3-part harmonies and Celtic flair. Ticket information online. Contact: simplegiftsmusic.net/ concerts-tickets/#top
3
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DON IRWIN STEINWAY HOLIDAY
When: 2 & 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Award-winning pianist spreads holiday cheer with the help of LPT's Steinway piano. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
‘HOLD THE LUTEFISK-IT'S BEGINNING TO SMELL A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS’
When: 2 & 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake Details: The Looney Lutherans perform family-friendly comedy and songs. Ticket information online. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org
CITY BRIEF
Shannon Granholm
ST. PAUL’S FASHION LEADER FOR 80 YEARS
CASUAL TIMES FASHIONS
This location must close in January
WHEN THE ORDINARY IS FINAL MARKDOWNS!! INADEQUATE...
70% - 90% OFF
... YOU CAN DEPEND ON GETTING JUST THE RIGHT (*Only a few select New Fashions Prohibited by FASHIONS FROM: Manufacturers allowed to be marked down over 50% off) NEW WINTER FASHIONS
* “WE ARE SHOPPING ALSO”……. For a new location in the area Check for Big Bargains Now:
www.david-edwins.com 4719 THIRD Clark Ave 2186 ST. ACROSS FROM: INDULDGE DOWNTOWN WHITE BEAR LAKE | www.david-edwin 847722
An agreement is now in place with Ramsey County for the jurisdictional and ownership transfers of portions of Otter Lake Road and White Bear Parkway. In 2024, the city of White Bear Lake entered into cooperative agreements with Ramsey County for the construction and right-of-way acquisition for the Otter Lake Road improvement project from County Road 96 north to Fourth Street. During project development, concerns were heard from the public regarding pedestrian and bicycle safety along the corridor with the trail proposed to be constructed right behind the back of the curb. City Manager Lindy Crawford explained that due to right-of-way constraints, the road section needed to use narrower traffic lanes and required the placement of the trail right behind the curb without a boulevard separation. City and county staff discussed options to reduce the volume of truck traffic
and as a result decided the best solution would be a transfer of jurisdiction to the city. The city has more authority than the county to restrict truck traffic on its roadways. Therefore, it was decided that it was in the best interest of both parties to trade Otter Lake Road from County Road 96 to Ninth Street for White Bear Parkway from County Road 96 to Otter Lake Road. “This will allow the city to restrict truck traffic on Otter Lake Road, which will shift truck traffic to White Bear Parkway, resulting in a safer roadway and trail on Otter Lake Road,” she said. The agreement transfers ownership and maintenance responsibilities. The agreement also identifies the county’s commitment to construct a missing trail segment along White Bear Parkway to connect to Rotary Nature Preserve from the south. Additional actions by the city and county will be necessary to transfer the Municipal State Aid and County State Aid designations for the roadways.
847425
White Bear Lake to take over portion of Otter Lake Road
4 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
OPINION www.presspubs.com
DECEMBER 17, 2025
‘You should be here’
“I
t’s one of those moments That’s got your name written all over it And you know that if I had just one wish It’d be that you didn’t have to miss this You should be here.” The song, “You should be here” by Cole Swindell, has always resonated with me. That’s because I know exactly how it feels to want more than anything that someone was still here. Dec. 18 marks 10 years since we lost my dad. I still vividly remember sitting next to his bed in the hospital. He was hooked up to all of these machines, and couldn’t even open his eyes. I recall typing up some of my thoughts, hoping they would never Shannon’s see the light of day. Many of those turned into his obituary. Shenanigans words My dad, Earl, passed away at Shannon the age of 55, seven days before Christmas in 2015. When I reflect Granholm on a decade without him, I can’t help but think about all that he has missed. He missed my sister’s high school and college graduations; he’s missed new homes and new jobs. He hasn’t gotten to meet so many of the pups who have come into our lives, and he missed the birth of his grandson. After a decade, I can honestly say that I still think about it every day. They say time heals all wounds, but I can vouch that it doesn’t. I will never be “okay” with the fact that I lost my dad when I was only 22. I will, however, forever be grateful for the time we did have with him and all I learned from him in his short time here. Dad spent years battling health challenges, yet he carried himself with a strength that inspired everyone who knew him. Even on the hardest days, he never lost his faith, his humor or his deep love for his family. He taught us what it means to persevere, to show up and to trust that it will all be okay even in the darkest moments. He wasn’t defined by illness; he was defined by love. My dad was a fighter, a man of faith, kindness and strength. He made this world a better place, and I hope to do that too. This time of year, losses seem to sting a little bit more. I still remember having to stare at all of his unopened presents just sitting on his chair next to the tree on Christmas morning. I remember feeling so out of place because it seemed like everyone around me was so full of joy, yet I couldn’t make it through a day without crying. I still often feel like that, and I know I’m not alone. For many, the holidays are a magical time when you get to spend time with those who mean the most. But the sad truth is that for many of us, our gatherings have gotten much smaller over the years, and there are people that should still be with us who are not. If you are grieving a recent, or decade-old, loss, this holiday, know that you are not alone. It’s okay to grieve. Dad, thank you for being our constant, our teacher, our protector and our friend. We hope you can see how much you are loved, how often you are thought of, and how your strength continues to carry us even now. We miss you. We love you. And we honor you JESSICA BARKER PHOTOGRAPHY | CONTRIBUTED today and every day. Managing Editor Shannon Shannon Granholm is Granholm pictured with the Managing Editor at her dad Earl Kinley at her Press Publications. wedding in 2015. Distributed weekly in: White Bear Lake • White Bear Township • Mahtomedi Birchwood • Dellwood • Willernie • Gem Lake Pine Springs • Portions of Grant • Vadnais Heights
www.presspubs.com 651-407-1200 DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements appear in Press Publications’ publications, including print and other digital formats. Press Publications does not endorse or evaluate the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content. Press Publications reserves the right to refuse, reject, or cancel any ad for any reason at any time without liability.
Magical health care model: School-based health centers
I
n the 1970s, a magical conversation took place among a few Minnesota health care providers who contemplated a simple yet powerful idea for improving healthcare access: why not bring health services to youth? From that conversation, St. Paul opened one of the nation’s first school-based health centers over 50 years ago. School-based health centers (SBHCs), a proven model of delivering healthcare services to youth, are gaining momentum across the state. In 2022, only 2% of Minnesota school districts had SBHCs. Movers & Rapid expansion of these clinics Shakers occurred when the Minnesota Dr. Jessica Legislature Miehe defined SBHCs in state statute and allocated funding to expand efforts in 2023. Today, SBHCs are present in over 10% of Minnesota school districts. The Bear Care Clinic, a SBHC located in White Bear Lake Area High School, has provided over 6,500 appointments to district youth since it opened in 2020. What is a School-Based Health Center? My go-to answer when asked is that an SBHC is a clinic in a school. My long answer is that an SBHC is an empowering model that supports the current and future lives of our community's youth, improving health and educational outcomes. These clinics, located near
or on school property, are strategically positioned to address healthcare access barriers for youth. SBHCs serve as a safety net for youth; no child is ever turned away regardless of their insurance status, ability to pay, or background. An SBHC may offer multidisciplinary services to support youth, including primary and preventive care, illness treatment, mental health counseling, health education, oral care, nutrition counseling and more. Every SBHC is unique in its services, tailoring its model to fit best the school, district, and community in which it is located. Notably, the model typically receives bipartisan support, something that seems nearly impossible in today’s political landscape. The magic of SBHC deliverables is something we all want for our youth: affordable care, improved health, and positive education outcomes. It’s not actually magic, of course, but rather a system that modifies how we deliver healthcare. SBHCs can actually improve societal and taxpayer benefits by decreasing costly emergency department visits and improving preventive care rates, which in turn decreases Medicaid costs. Parents experience less work time loss, while youth have more inschool seat time. Overwhelmingly, youth who utilize SBHCs have better health outcomes – those who feel better can more fully commit to their learning. If I haven’t yet convinced you of the magic-ness of SBHCs, I have one final piece of evidence. Youth succeed with support, and the SBHC model embraces the
family support system. Involving families in the decisions, care, and health education is essential in promoting youth health. SBHCs must follow state minor consent laws (in Minnesota, parent consent is required for physical health services under the age of 18 years and for mental health services under the age of 16 years) and rely on parents and legal guardians to be involved in the health plan. Parents can support their youth’s development in navigating the healthcare system by teaching them how to make appointments, learn about health insurance, and understand their health – SBHCs are here to support parents in this work. The Bear Care Clinic serves youth of all ages in the White Bear Lake Area school district – early childhood through the end of high school. Services available include illness care and treatment, skin issues, sports physicals, well-child checks, vaccines, mental health counseling, nutrition counseling, health education and more. Visit www.riseuphealthclinics.org for more information on scheduling an appointment. The Bear Care Clinic is operated by Rise Up Health Clinics, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing accessible healthcare to youth. Jess Miehe is the founder and executive director of Rise Up Health Clinics. She is an Associate Professor of Nursing and Director at St. Catherine University. She serves as the President of the Minnesota Board of Nursing. Miehe is a 2003 graduate of White Bear Lake Area High School.
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES four weeks must lapse between • Limited to 350 words. publication. Exceptions may be • Submissions must Include a full made for rebuttal letters. name, address and daytime • Due to space limitations, letters phone number for verification. that don’t address local issues • Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press are not guaranteed publication. • Repeat letters by the same writer Publications coverage area. about the same subject matter • Letter writers are limited to six will not be published. letters per year and at least
Carter C. Johnson - Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson - Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Patty Steele - General Manager marketing@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm - Managing Editor whitebearnews@presspubs.com
Amy Johnson - Editorial Assistant news@presspubs.com Mary Peterson - Production Manager artmanager@presspubs.com William Peter - Lead Production Designer art@presspubs.com Paul Dols - Photo Journalist photos@presspubs.com
the week prior to publication. • Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not • To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs.com, be published. • Submissions containing facts not fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, previously published in the Press 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear must be accompanied by factual Lake, MN 55110. verification. • All letters are subject to editing. • Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of
Circulation circ@presspubs.com Obituaries obits@presspubs.com Classifieds classified@presspubs.com Call a Specialist callaspecialist@presspubs.com
COPYRIGHT© 2025 BY PRESS PUBLICATIONS, INC. Material may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form whatsoever. News ......................................................651-407-1235 Advertising ...........................................651-407-1200 Circulation ............................................ 651-407-1234 Classified/Obits ................................... 651-407-1250 Production ............................................ 651-407-1239 FAX ....................................................... 651-429-1242
Published Wednesdays by Press Publications, Inc. 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m. Mailed Subscription Rate: $52.00 per year. Subscribe online at presspubs.com
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
5
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Thankful for public works With all the political drama and people thinking government can’t do anything good, I wanted to give a shoutout to the amazing civil servants out there who work hard every day. I’m especially thinking of the folks at the White Bear Lake Public Works Department. They’re truly incredible! I’ve lived here for a long time, and I’ve never seen snow removal efforts like theirs. Every morning after a good snow, I wake up to the streets cleared from curb to curb, and it’s always a relief. Keep up the great work; you guys and gals are truly appreciated! Charles Jackson White Bear Lake
Work hard, contribute, embrace America In the 2015 film “Woman in Gold,” there is a moment that feels especially relevant to many of today’s new immigrants. Early in the story, a father sends his daughter away to America for her safety. With calm resolve that barely hides his fear, he tells her, “From now on, we speak in the language of your future.” He reminds her that when their family came to Vienna, they were not wealthy. They worked hard, contributed and did everything they could to belong. They were proud of what they built. That message resonates here at home. As in any community, a small number of people can cast a shadow over the many who live decently and honorably. We’ve seen this in Minneapolis and St. Paul, where scandals and fraud shocked the public and where government oversight failed to prevent it. But those bad actors do not define everyone. I have met many good people from Somalia and other African nations—places I have had the privilege to visit. Most want exactly what earlier generations of immigrants wanted: a chance to build a life, contribute and become part of the American story. The lesson is simple and timeless: work hard, contribute, learn the history of this nation and embrace the values that made it strong. Do that, and you become one of us—not as a guest, but as a fellow citizen in the shared future we are building together. Scott Nintzel White Bear Township
Dig deeper In response to the “Curriculum focus is negative” letter last week, I share the writer’s belief in the goal of having students develop pride and respect for our country and its history. However, I strongly disagree with his belief that Minnesota schools are “teaching all the negative aspects.”
2778 00
Support for his position was based solely on the 2-5 word titles of the nine U.S. History Eras in the standards. A simple 20-second Google search provides the one paragraph “Overview” of each Era along with “Benchmarks” for each. Reading those paragraphs reveals how, within each Era, students are taught to use higher-level thinking skills (e.g., analysis, synthesis, evaluation) and primary source documents to develop their own knowledge about the great accomplishments (and shortcomings) of our history. The brilliance of these standards is that teachers do not “tell” or force any opinions — positive or negative — on students. For example, in Era Two, students are required to “Examine the significance of foundational dates in U.S. History … specifically dates related to the founding of the United States as an independent country (1776, 1789)….” Many older WBL High School grads remember the great teacher, Don Foss. Mr. Foss taught by having students study primary source documents, and his curriculum centered on historical trials that explored dilemmas such as, “John D. Rockefeller: Great American Statesman or Robber Baron?” Guess what? In the end, students were exposed to the genius and greatness of American industrial development, while also learning how that development caused harm to some. In the end, students had multiple perspectives, including great appreciation for America’s greatness. I suggest not forming opinions based on 2-5 word titles. Dig deeper. Talk to teachers and curriculum leaders. Talk to students! America’s history is remarkable, and we owe it to our students — and ourselves — to be aware of the triumphs and tragedies as we pursue our founders’ vision of continual improvement of this great American Experiment.
Financial illiteracy is rampant The suspension of social benefits and wages of certain federal employees caused by the government shutdown shows too many people failed to have an emergency fund. An emergency fund is one of the highest priorities, as mentioned by financial professionals. Credit card and auto loan delinquencies hover around 3%, and show people spend beyond their means. Financial illiteracy is rampant. Our schools fail to teach financial literacy — a skill we can use our whole life. My father taught me to spend less than you earn — period. With government deficits and local tax levies rising, we cannot rely on our elected officials to help. We as a society want benefits but want someone else to pay for them. Around 50% of tax returns filed show no federal tax paid. It is easy to ask our elected officials for social benefits and have others pay for them. We complain that the 50% that pay taxes don't pay enough. We have enabled those on social benefits to believe those benefits are a right. Yes, some people cannot provide for themselves, but those that can, should. The Cadillacs, Teslas and Lexuses I see in the food shelf line are a perfect example of financial illiteracy. As Thomas Sowell said, "No society ever thrived because it had a large and growing class of parasites living off those who produce." Steven Holupchinski Vadnais Heights
George Kimball White Bear Lake
The real danger I am responding to a letter written by Cora Hankins. She starts out by talking about the rights of pedestrians and bicyclists and goes on to say that she and her husband were biking south on Highway 244 through Dellwood when an angry resident yelled at her and said she was riding illegally and in her mind harassing her by telling her she was riding on the wrong side of the white line and in the traffic lane, which it actually is. She then goes on to say — and this is the totally obvious part that a reckless driver probably trying to avoid hitting her drove an oncoming car into the ditch — she then goes on to say that cars have to stay 3 feet away from bicyclists. This road is a narrow, twolane winding road, so if she is over the white line that would mean every car going around her would have to go in the oncoming lane. As far as I can see, the real danger on the road is her, on a bicycle. John Cundy White Bear Lake
Buying or selling a home is a rare opportunity to build wealth.
Who to Call in Government President Donald Trump 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, DC 20500 202-456-1414 US Sen. Amy Klobuchar 425 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 202-224-3244 US Sen. Tina Smith 720 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 202-224-5641 Governor Tim Walz & Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan 130 State Capitol, 75 Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155 US Rep. Betty McCollum (District 4) 2426 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 202-225-6631 Minnesota Rep. Patti Anderson (District 33A) 2nd Floor, Centennial Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-3018
Minnesota Rep. Brion Curran (District 36B) 5th Floor, Centennial Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-4342 Minnesota Rep. Elliot Engen (District 36) 95 University Avenue W., Minnesota Senate Bldg., Room 3103, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-1253 Minnesota Sen. Karin Housley (District 33) 95 University Avenue W, Minnesota Senate Bldg., Room 2213, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-4351 Minnesota Sen. Heather Gustafson (District 36) 95 University Avenue W., Minnesota Senate Bldg., Room 3103, St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-1253
SAVE ENERGY ALL WINTER – FREE INSPECTION!
YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS IN INSULATION
Don't waste it! Partner with an advisor that will help build your future.
before
Ryan Lange
after
REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
SIGNS OF POOR INSULATION IN YOUR HOME
612.701.2778 ryan@langehaus.com
High Energy Bills
Uneven Temperatures
Better insulation means lower bills, fewer
Matt Grant
Chilly Drafts
Bo n n Su n db e ie rg’s
helps you save money and stay cozy all year.
$250
OFF
847429
847534
INSULATION OR CRAWLSPACE ENCAPSULATION *CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS, MUST BE PRESENTED AT THE TIME OF APPOINTMENT. NOT VAILD FOR PRIOR WORK.
OFFER EXPIRES 2/28/26
847427
drafts, and lasting comfort. DBS Repair
Mortgage Advisor | Producing Branch Manager 763.370.0418 matt.grant@fairwaymc.com http://www.fairway.com/lo/matt-grant-324106 NMLS# 324106
Cold Floors
SCHEDULE A FREE INSPECTION!
651-240-2266
DBSthecitizen.com
6 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
COPS&COURTS www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • A verbal warning was given for a barking dog in the 1900 block of Birch Lake Avenue Dec. 3. • A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for DWI after officers located her vehicle in the 2700 block of Cedar Avenue following a driving complaint Dec. 3. • A Wisconsin woman was arrested on gross misdemeanor warrants in Minnesota following a disorderly conduct incident in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Dec. 4. • Officers responded to a report of unauthorized use of a vehicle in the 1900 block of Eugene Street Dec. 4. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1300 block of Highway 96 Dec. 4. • Officers located a missing juvenile from Lake Elmo in the 2400 block of Floral Drive Dec. 4. • Theft was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Dec. 4 and 7. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road Dec. 4. • Credit card fraud was reported in the 2300 block of 10th Street Dec. 5. • Officers took a missing person report in the 1700 block of County Road E Dec. 5. • Officers mediated a verbal dispute over damaged property in the 4500 block of Otter Lake Road Dec. 5. • A juvenile female was identified as a suspect in a theft that occurred in the 900 block of Wildwood Road Dec. 5. • Officers mediated a snowplowing dispute in the 2100 block of First Street Dec. 5.
DECEMBER 17, 2025
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
• Harassment was reported in the 1900 block of Oak Knoll Drive Dec. 5. • A White Bear Lake resident was arrested for DWI following a dangerous condition complaint in the 2400 block of County Road F Dec. 5. • A Woodbury man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near Interstate 694 and Highway 61 Dec. 7. • Officers mediated a dispute between family members in the 3600 block of Kenny Lane Dec. 7. • Officers responded to a dispute in the 2200 block of Elm Drive Dec. 7. • Fraud was reported in the 2200 block of Sixth Street Dec. 8. • Criminal sexual conduct was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Dec. 8. The case is being investigated by the St. Paul Police Department. • Theft was reported in the 1400 block of Park Street Dec. 8. • Officers responded to a domestic incident in the 2200 block of County Road E Dec. 8. • Officers responded to a family dispute in the 2400 block of Elm Drive Dec. 9. • Officers assisted in removing a disorderly customer from a business in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Dec. 9. • Officers responded to a report of harassment in the 3600 block of Kenny Lane Dec. 9. • Officers responded to a possible extortion scam originating on Hillary Farm Lane Dec. 9. • Officers responded to a dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Dec. 9. • A Waverly man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near Bellaire Avenue and Hillside Road Dec. 9. • Officers mediated a dispute in the 2200 block of Sixth Street Dec. 10.
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township:
Vadnais Heights
• Deputies issued a theft citation Nov. 16 to a 42-year-old woman from Minneapolis after she was caught stealing merchandise from a business in the 800 block of County Road E East. • A 25-year-old woman from St. Paul who is an employee at a bank in the 900 block of County Road E East reported Nov. 18 that someone attempted to use a fake driver’s license to cash a stolen check. The suspect was gone when deputies arrived. • Deputies arrested a 32-year-old man from Minneapolis Nov. 18 who was driving in the 200 block of Vadnais Heights Boulevard after his license was suspended. • A 38-year-old man reported Nov. 19 that someone broke into his GMC Sierra in the 800 block of Parkside Drive and stole a backpack containing hunting clothes, a sentimental bowie knife, a couple of hunting knives and a hunting license. The incident is under investigation. • An employee of a concrete company in the 1100 block of City Center Drive reported Nov. 19 that someone stole more than two dozen concrete forms valued at around $9,000. The incident is under investigation. • Deputies responded Nov. 20 to a report of theft at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East after a 26-year-old man, a loss prevention employee, saw two woman steal nearly $200 worth of merchandise before getting into a Chevy Trailblazer and leaving the parking lot. The incident is under investigation. • Deputies issued citations for speeding and not carrying proof of automobile insurance Nov. 20 to a 17-year-old male from White Bear Lake in the 1400 block of County Road E East. • Deputies were contacted by city officials Nov. 20 about a property
in the 700 block of Manor Street with chickens that was going to be declared a “public nuisance,” and an animal control officer made arrangements for several chickens to be taken to a shelter. • Deputies responded Nov. 21 to a report of a disturbance at a bar and grill in the 1100 block of County Road E East in which a 46-year-old man from Gem Lake and a 35-yearold woman from Maplewood were arguing. The male was issued a trespass notice. • Deputies issued theft citations Nov. 21 to a 23-year-old woman from St. Paul and a 43-year-old woman from Maplewood after they were caught attempting to steal $15 worth of merchandise from a business in the 800 block of County Road E East.
White Bear Township • A 28-year-old woman from Lino Lakes reported Nov. 17 that she was driving down the street near the intersection of Bald Eagle Boulevard West and County Road H2 East when an object came loose out of another vehicle and struck her Toyota. The incident is under investigation. • A 48-year-old man in the 1700 block of Ridgewood Avenue reported Nov. 19 that someone claiming to be a Wells Fargo investigator contacted him and tried to convince him to send more than $15,000 to him via FedEx. Deputies contacted FedEx to intercept the package that had been sent and contacted police in the jurisdiction to where the money was headed. The incident is under investigation. • An animal control officer took a report Nov. 20 of a dog that had been found in the 2600 block of Stacker Boulevard. The officer collected the dog and delivered it to the Humane Society. • Deputies responded Nov. 22 to a minor property damage crash near the intersection of County Road J East and Interstate 35E and assisted the drivers as they exchanged information.
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:
Dellwood
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a traffic stop for speeding Oct. 31 on Mahtomedi Avenue and cited the driver for speeding and possession of marijuana while under the age of 21. • Deputies arriving on the scene of a disturbance on Dellwood Curve Nov. 1 found the complainant upset about a Dominos order and were able to assuage the complainant’s anger.
Grant
• A motorist was cited Oct. 26 in the 9000 block of Manning Avenue N. for speeding 70 mph in a posted 55 mph zone. Another motorist was cited Oct. 31 on Manning Avenue N. for speeding and failure to provide proof of insurance. • In the Case of the Bounding Buck, deputies on Oct. 26 took a report of a deer who couldn’t quite complete the leap and became stuck in a fence in the 9000 block of Justen Trail N. • Residents in the 8000 block of Jewel Avenue N. on Oct. 27 reported giving money away to a fraudster. On Oct. 28, residents in the 9000 block of Ivy Avenue N. reported a suspicious phone call from someone claiming to be law enforcement. Deputies advised the complainant of the scam attempt.
• A resident in the 6000 block of Jarvis Avenue N. at 3:07 a.m. Nov. 1 reported three people wearing masks and dark clothing walking around on his property. Deputies checked the area and found no one, late night trick-ortreaters or otherwise. • Residents in the 9000 block of 107th Street N. reported a deer carcass dumped on their property Nov. 1. Deputies found the deer and learned that a bowhunter had butchered it. They worked with the DNR and found the name of a person in the area who had tagged the deer several days earlier. The information was turned over to the DNR.
Mahtomedi
• A speeding motorist was cited Oct. 29 on Warner Avenue N. and Hickory Street. • As deputies were in the middle of responding to a package theft complaint from a Warner Avenue resident Oct. 30, the complainant found the package on the front porch. • Construction equipment was reported stolen Oct. 31 from a site on Old Wildwood Road. • A motorist was arrested for DWI at 12:55 a.m. Oct. 31 on Century Avenue at Long Lake Road, after being pulled over for a brake light out. Deputies also observed the motorist making an unusually wide turn. During the stop, deputies observed an odor of alcohol about the driver’s person, as well as the telltale zombie eyes. After field testing was administered, deputies took the driver into custody. A different
motorist was also arrested for DWI at 1:48 a.m. Nov. 1 on Century Avenue at I-694. A third motorist was arrested for DWI at 4:03 a.m. Nov. 1 on Wildwood Road and Wedgewood Drive. A fourth motorist was arrested for DWI at 10:38 p.m. on Mahtomedi Avenue and Maple Street. • Following a night filled with arrests for drunkenness, an intoxicated woman on Stillwater Road accidentally sprayed herself with bear mace early Nov. 1 and required medical attention.
Pine Springs
• A motorist pulled over for violating the Ted Foss Move Over law on Oct. 26 was arrested for DWI, after deputies smelled pot during the traffic stop. The driver admitted to smoking a joint one hour earlier.
Willernie
• An individual sporting an outstanding Ramsey County warrant was arrested at 1:09 a.m. Oct. 26 on Stillwater and Wildwood roads. • A homeowner on Kimberly Road on Oct. 29 reported their $15 Halloween lights cut. • A Sargent Road resident at 11:21 p.m. Oct. 31 reported multiple people on his property urinating on his vehicle, as seen through his Ring Doorbell camera. • A motorist failing to stop at the Stillwater Road/ Warner Avenue N. stop sign at 12:11 a.m. Nov. 1 was cited for that violation and for failure to provide proof of insurance.
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
7
White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation awards Brosious Grants The White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation (WBLAEF) recently awarded 10 Brosious Teaching Grants to 18 teachers in the White Bear Lake Area School District 624. The grants totaled over $17,400. Speaking Out Collective Puppet Show Normandy - Kristi Giles This project introduces “Fluff, the Duckling Who Wouldn’t Swim to Normandy,” an interactive puppet show that teaches young children strategies for managing anxiety and building confidence through songs, theater games, and puppet-making. Families and teachers will use the puppets to reinforce bravery, flexibility and curiosity in daily routines. Capture the Moment Cameras - Transition
Education Center (TEC) - Jessie Prissel This project at TEC provides an additional six cameras to support hands-on learning in photography and digital media. Through club activities and community excursions, students learn to operate cameras, organize images and create digital projects that build critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and independence. Story Boxes - Birch Lake - Michelle Stemwedel This project will create nine multisensory story boxes for Cubs classrooms, each pairing a book with tactile objects and storage materials. These boxes will support communication, vocabulary and literacy for students who benefit from
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS Mahtomedi woman struck on I-94 in Wisconsin Kara Ann Meslow, 30, of Mahtomedi, has been identified by the Wisconsin State Patrol as the person who was struck and killed while walking along I-94 Monday, Dec. 8. According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, it happened around 5:50 p.m. near Black River Falls. Meslow was pronounced dead at the scene.
White Bear Lake man charged with 2nd-degree burglary Eugene Benshoof, 46-year-oldman from White Bear Lake, has been charged with multiple felonies after police allegedly tracked his footprints through the snow following a report of suspicious activity at a construction site in Lino Lakes. According to the criminal complaint, at approximately 10 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, officers were
dispatched to a construction site in the 6500 block of 12th Avenue in Lino Lakes after a resident reported hearing clanking and cutting sounds coming from the site. According to the complaint, officers followed a set of footprints leading inside the building, where they discovered numerous cut copper pipes and a band saw. The complaint said a large piece of copper pipe had reportedly been dragged through the snow, and copper shavings were visible near the saw. Officers then tracked the footprints approximately 100 feet from the building and allegedly saw Benshoof lying on the ground. Police stated that his shoeprints matched those found both around and inside the building. Benshoof allegedly claimed he had gotten into an argument with his girlfriend, went for a walk and then sat down. He denied entering the building or accessing any tools, though he was reportedly unable to recall his specific whereabouts on the property.
hands-on engagement, including those with visual impairments, which increases participation, motivation and comprehension during co-taught lessons. Modeling Language with Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) Devices - Willow Lane and Lakeaires - Jennafer Karpinski, Hannah Honerman, Bridget Cwengros This project will provide staff at Lakeaires and Willow Elementaries with dedicated AAC devices to model language while students use their own, allowing educators to demonstrate vocabulary and communication strategies while students learn, which supports more consistent practice, increased independence and stronger communication across classroom and community settings. The Tragic Hero’s Journey - Area Learning Center - Michele Norcross and John Forestell This project will bring ALC students to see “Macbeth” at the Guthrie Theater, deepening their understanding of Shakespeare’s themes through an immersive experience. Paired with classroom study and a creative writing unit, the trip will strengthen literacy, cultural awareness, engagement and personal connection through reflection, discussion and original poetry. Engineering and Design: Cardboard Carnival - Lakeaires - Heather Berry and Nick Marty This project will expand the Lakeaires Cardboard Carnival/MiniGolf event by providing 12 chomp saws for safe, precise cardboard cutting. The tools will enhance student design, problem-solving, and collaboration as fourth and fifth graders build interactive games shared with the whole school community, strengthening cross-curricular learning and a beloved annual tradition. Little Bears at Bear Time - Lakeaires Jennifer Elias This project will enhance BEAR
Time at Lakeaires by adding handson STEM and cooperative games that promote collaboration, creativity and social-emotional growth. Activities like building challenges and team games will strengthen communication, cooperation, conflict resolution and confidence while helping students learn to work together and support one another. Chomp Saws: Safe Tools for Young Makers Vadnais Elementary - Anna Klein This project will purchase 10 ChompSaw cardboard-cutting tools for the Vadnais Heights Elementary art program, allowing students in grades 3–5 to safely create more complex, hands-on cardboard projects. The tools will expand creative possibilities, support design and problem-solving skills and connect artmaking to engineering, collaboration and realworld learning. Equity-based Hands on Learning Materials for Preschoolers - Normandy - Elizabeth Waeghe, Jessica McCarthy, and Amber Buberl This project will purchase diverse, developmentally appropriate educational toys to support preschoolers’ cognitive, social-emotional and motor development. The materials will encourage cooperative play, problemsolving and inclusion, reflecting a variety of backgrounds and experiences. The expanded collection will be shared across classrooms as the program transitions into its new building. Group Drumming at Lakeaires - Lakeaires, Crystal Hall This project will expand the classroom set of drums for group drumming at Lakeaires. Adding more tubanos and djembes will allow full classes to participate together, building community, increasing rhythmic literacy and enhancing engagement through hands-on, ensemble-based music making across grades K–5. For more information about WBLAEF, visit wblaef.org. White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation
White Bear Lake Area Church Directory Sunday Worship Join us on Sunday:
10:15 am in-person Worship Livestreaming on and Live-streaming on YouTube: YouTube:FPCWBL FPCWBL 836604
787260
785863 764532
Children 5 years to 5th grade may participate in Children’s Church during worship.
5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381 • www.fpcwbl.org 5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381• www.fpcwbl.org
Worship: Sunday, 9am & 10:30am Wednesday, 6:30pm Daily prayer meetings and Spiritual Growth classes throughout the week. Call the church office for more information.
2425 White Bear Avenue • Maplewood • 651-777-5200
Christ the Servant Lutheran Church All Are Welcome!
787263
LUTHERAN CHURCH
Christ the King Lutheran Church
Join our Community! Saturday 4:00pm Sunday 9:00am Sunday soCOOL ~ for ALL ages Education Hour Sunday 10:15am
2480 South Shore Blvd | WBL | sstwbl.org
office@ctkwbl.org | 651-429-4828
Reconciliation: Wednesday 5:00-5:45 PM, Thursday 8:45-9:15 AM, Saturday 3:15-3:35 PM, Sunday 6:00-6:20 PM
794438
(Just off Hwy 96 & Otter Lake Road)
847563
CHURCH OF ST. PIUS X
3878 Highland Avenue White Bear Lake • 651-429-5337 www.churchofstpiusx.org Masses: Sunday 9:30 AM & 6:30 PM, Monday, Thursday, & Friday, 8:00 AM, Wednesday 6:00 PM, Saturday 4:00 PM
1660 Birch Lake Ave., White Bear Lake
9 am worship in person & online at www.ctkwbl.org.
842779
831312
Masses: Saturday - 5:00 PM Livestream Sunday - 9:00 & 11:00 AM
831310
818979
1851 Birch St | WBL 55110 | wblumc.org
Sout h Shor e Tr inity
651-429-7771 Opt 1
Service times are subject to change. Contact your local church or check church web sites for service times and online service information.
TH
9am Traditions | 10am online | 10:45am New Crossings
www.stmarys-wbl.org
Church: 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake Parish Life Center/School: 4690 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake
Pl ve re
All Are Welcome!
3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 www.cslcvh.org / 651-429-6595 Sunday 9:00 AM worship in person/on-line Adult Bible Study 8:00 AM
rlcstpaul
751042
847494
redeeminglovechurch.com
8 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
TRUTH IN TAXATION: Levy approved, questions linger over district finances FROM PAGE 1
district’s financial report, prepared by Ehlers Public Finance Advisors. According to this report, the state currently allows the school just under $7,500 per student enrolled in the district. To have the same buying power that ISD 624 had 20 years ago, the state would have to allow $8,900 per student. “For the White Bear Lake schools, that gap represents underfunding of approximately $13.3 million.” Wald also relayed that, according to the Minnesota Department of Education, the state of Minnesota underfunded special education mandates in fiscal year 2024 by $503 million. The district plans to close the gap by siphoning roughly $5 million from the general fund in a process known as “cross-subsidy.” Wald commented, “Special education services are necessary, and we’ll continue to provide those services.” Wald stressed that a change in tax levy does not determine change in budget. This year, for instance, the district’s finance team reduced the long term facilities maintenance debt service payments by just over $3.1 million. “This represents a strategic scheduling of bond payments to minimize tax swings,” Wald explained. “We work with our municipal advisers on a debt payment schedule so as to maintain a generally level tax impact.” Because the school year is six months off of city and county budget
CHARTS CONTRIBUTED
A graph from Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations Tim Wald’s school board presentation (below) as well as a chart provided by Board Member Dan Skaar from Local Elections Matter (above). Wald’s graph claims that the formula allowance adjusted for pupil weight change in fiscal year 2023 is $6,863. Skaar’s provided report claims total combined revenue is $15,607. Because the latter number includes state spending on funded mandates such as all-day kindergarten, Wald said, “This comparison is apples to oranges.”
cycles, taxes payable in 2026 will be for the school year 2026-2027. The board traditionally finalizes the school year’s budget during its June meeting.
Conflicting numbers
After the presentation concluded, Skaar raised issues with the tax levy, specifically regarding debt payment to the 2019 Building Our Future bond referendum. “One (referendum goal) was to expect projected enrollment growth throughout the district. That didn’t happen … where did 20% of those students go?” Skaar said. He also stated that the majority of the referendum went to the high school. “70% of the referendum went
Carriers of the Month Silas Rastetter
December 2025
to the high school … I think it was $266 million went to the high school.” According to a school board packet from June 14, 2021, the district accepted a bid from KrausAnderson Construction Company for the high school renovation and expansion project totaling $148,965,000, or 45.7% of the referendum amount. Skaar then questioned the inflation funding gap Wald presented, procuring an education finance analysis prepared by Ken Wolf and Bob Fallen of Local Elections Matter, which claims that combined revenue for White Bear Lake Area Schools exceeded the rate of inflation by 30% from 2013-2023. “They’re experts in education finance in Minnesota …” Skaar said before giving Wald a copy of the report. “When they looked at our numbers—I’d like the school district to validate or refute this—combined revenue increased over the 20-year period over (inflation) by 1.4%, which is much different than what we’re saying.” Once Skaar was finished, Thompson offered a third perspective. “Dr. Lawrence Jacobs, one of Minnesota’s leading political analysts … was asked to look into
the Minnesota state mandates,” she said, “and when he looked from 2000 to 2025, he didn't even know what to say. He thought it was going to be bad, but he did not expect it to be as bad as it is … (Minnesota) tells us we have to do it, but they don’t give us the money.” After Thompson, Board Member Christina Streiff-Oji addressed Wald: “I want to thank you … and I want to apologize for the insinuation that your numbers are inaccurate.”
Follow-up
Since the board meeting, White Bear
Press has reached out to Skaar, Dr. Jacobs and Wald for comment. Skaar has provided the White Bear Press with a full copy of the report he presented. Dr. Jacobs did not respond before Press deadline. Regarding enrollment numbers, Wald stated, “The demographic projections were in 2017 and 2018, and those numbers have not come to fruition.” Wald said that the projections correctly predicted increased residential construction on the north end of the district, but that the costs of living in those units are pricing out families with school-age children.
Wald also mentioned that he read Skaar’s report. “His numbers reflect total spending on education, not the change in the student formula, which is what I referenced and makes up the $13.3 million revenue gap from 2003 to 2026,” Wald summarized. “The funding his sources referenced include state spending on funded mandates and programs that have been added to education over that period, including all-day kindergarten, voluntary prekindergarten, and literacy mandates. This is an apples-to-oranges comparison.”
BY THE NUMBERS
Congratulations to Silas! Carrier for Press Publications for almost a year. He is dependable and does a great job.
847209
$73,598,400 $3,120,539 4.4% 2.7%
Total approved ISD 624 School Board levy payable 2026 Total levy increase over levy payable 2025 Percent increase of total levy Estimated percent increase $400,000 home will see on tax statement
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
9
A ‘superpower’ in helping reconnect dogs with their people BY TRACI LEBRUN PINE CITY PIONEER EDITOR
About 5 1/2 years ago, Melissa (Missy) Milliman lost her dog, Drake. After enlisting the help of The Retrievers lost dog team to help find him, they got a call of a deceased dog nine miles from her home – it was Drake. After some time grieving her beloved companion, Milliman, who is a referrals coordinator for Welia Health by day, realized she wanted to help others who had lost a dog, so she joined The Retrievers as a case manager and trapper. Over 100 searches and 5 1/2 years later, she’s still doing just that — helping others find their furry friends. When she started working with The Retrievers, she had a mentor on the first few cases. Soon enough, she was on her own helping others find their lost dogs. She was able to guide them through the search process with tips on what to do if they spot a dog who is staying in the same area, how to spread the word of a lost dog, what to do when the trail goes cold, how to best organize a search, and more. Trainees learn to avoid sharing exact locations publicly, but instead to call in the information directly to the phone number on signs or f lyers. This avoids the situation where the dog becomes even more skittish when a mass of people come looking for him. “Every case and dog is different, so your skills sort of develop over time and you learn to adapt to changes and challenges,” said Milliman. Milliman specifically tells pet owners to put out signs with their phone number and a photo of their lost dog, knowing that not everyone has social media. “We’ve had so many dogs get returned because someone saw a sign and then saw the dog and was able to call the family immediately,” she noted. “We also make maps using Google maps which help us track sightings, and it helps families know good ‘suggested’ locations for signs.” Trapping is also a technique used by the team. They use a very large trap called the “Missy Trap.” The trap was created in 2013 and named after a golden retriever named Missy who would not enter conventional traps. The co-founder of The Retrievers, Greg James, designed a trap made from horse fence panels that can be assembled in a field with quick clips. When triggered by a dog pulling on a piece of food, the gate drops and latches. A trail camera is nearby to show when the trap is triggered and the dog, or sometimes other animals, are caught. They also use a large kennel that is hooked up to a Raytripper, a device developed by The Retrievers team, with a photoelectric sensor that drops the gate when a dog enters the trap and steps into the beam. “When it comes to trapping, we do rely on the community and permission to use people’s properties,” said Milliman. “We are extremely respectful when it comes to getting permission with the ‘leave it as you found it’ rule.”
A dog rescued in Rush City named “Max.”
The group also has a team of drone operators and a search dog named “Scout,” who is in training.
Spruce and Syrah
Milliman’s most memorable, and most challenging, case was “Spruce,” who is now called “Willow.” She was a great Pyrenees from Finlayson that traveled over 20 miles through the Snake River Forest area in the middle of deer hunting season. After the team tracked her movements for several days, they saw that she settled at a farm about 10 miles north of Knife Lake. “It took a couple weeks of conditioning her to go in our trap,” recalls Milliman. “But she eventually did, and that’s when her new life began with a foster already in place. I still get updates from her new mom.” One heart-wrenching rescue was on County Road 3 north of Hinckley. “We placed a trap in a deep ditch on the side of a busy road. A stray German shepherd I called Syrah was seen being dumped off with the truck driving off and her chasing after,” recalls Milliman. Thankfully, Syrah was caught and rehomed. Volunteers try to stay within an hour of their homes but most of them have traveled further. “One of my first cases on my own was a lost dog in Brownton, Minnesota, in the winter of 2020,” recalls Milliman. “I drove 2 1/2 hours in pretty much a blizzard to trap this dog with my son Everyn, who often helps me with my cases.” Advice from the pros If you’ve lost a dog, do not give up, says Milliman. “Stay positive for your dog. Post online and make and put up signs with your number and dog's photo on both sides,” she said. “Call the sheriff 's office to report your dog missing, call local vets and, if you need extra support, please reach out to organizations like The Retrievers (which serves most of Minnesota) or Lost K-9 (based out of Cottage Grove).” To prevent losing a dog and not finding it, “microchip, microchip, microchip!” notes Milliman. “Tags don’t always work, because they can fall off. Or you can write your number on your dog's collar in permanent marker even. I also recommend that if you are leaving town and you’re leaving your dog with a family member, a dog sitter or even a boarding facility, you should always send your dog with an article, whether it is a worn shirt, their blanket or bedding. Often, one of the first things we do is suggest hanging out a familiar scent which could be a worn shirt or a blanket or even a dog’s bed. In case the dog
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Missy Milliman with one of her dogs, Blu, who was a stray that was never reclaimed from Brook Park.
has kind of gotten ‘turned around,’ they could catch a familiar scent to help find their way home.” Milliman, who is not only a mother but a dog mom as well, says it's exhilarating when she takes a case. “I automatically love your dog like it’s my own! Our entire team is celebrating when we retrieve your pet,” she adds.
About The Retrievers
The Retrievers is an all-volunteer team based in Minnesota. The team also serves parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, northern Iowa, and western Wisconsin, offering the tools, experience and expertise to help rescues and individual owners find their lost dogs. Their resources will help dog owners organize an effective search and, through free consultations, their experienced team members can advise on strategic decisions as the search unfolds. Their specialty is capturing skittish dogs, which is especially helpful once a dog has been spotted and is remaining in the same general area. If your dog has gone missing, every hour counts. For more information or to donate to The Retrievers, visit https://www.theretrievers. org/. The Retrievers have also designed “Never Lost U,” which focuses on lost dog prevention. That information can be found at https://theretrievers-s-school.teachable.com/p/neverlostu. Traci LeBrun is the editor of the Pine City Pioneer.
White Bear Lake Rotary ACADEMIC ACHIEVER Hazel Yung
Rotary Matters
wblrotary1@comcast.net
Central Middle School
Hazel is a wonderful 8th-grade student who is not only hardworking but also happy and helpful. Hazel is a dedicated student who works hard in every single class. She is always on-task and ready and willing to learn. Hazel is a student who possesses wonderful critical-thinking skills and is someone who thinks not only of answers but also of questions that other students may overlook. Hazel is involved in soccer, figure skating, and is on the Alpine ski team. She also really enjoys art. All of Hazel's teachers are consistently impressed with her knowledge, thinking skills, and positive attitude.
Milliman and Nicole, a fellow Retriever volunteer, after trapping a little stray in Brook Park named “Chase.” They often work together on cases.
Jeff Borglum Milliman hand feeding Syrah before deploying the trap.
847402
Sponsored by
10 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
2025 HOLIDAY LIGHTS CONTEST
Entry Deadline Extended Share your lights at
presspubs.com/holidaylights or scan QR code
847150
847338
Extended deadline to enter is noon on Monday, Dec. 22. Please email a photo of your display and location to marketing@presspubs.com or submit online at presspubs.com/holidaylights.
NORTH STAR MINI STORAGE
VADNAIS HEIGHTS • SHOREVIEW Gate Access (Daily):7:00 am - 10:00 pm
FREE
2025
WINNER
for non-drive-up units
Best of the Press
2024
on 180 sq ft or less, new
WINNER
customers only at the
Best of the Press
Vadnais Heights and Shoreview location. 846215
Season’s Greetings
2nd month
3880 Labore Road, Vadnais Heights (651) 771-3880 | 483 W. County Rd E, Shoreview (651) 483-1100 www.northstarministorage.com
Expires 1/31/26
NORTH STAR MINI STORAGE
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
11
Try chicken grit as an eco-friendly alternative to salt There are 68 lakes and streams in Minnesota impaired by too much salt (chloride) and at least 108 at high risk of becoming impaired in the near future. Salt is toxic to fish, aquatic bugs, mussels and amphibians and can mobilize other toxic elements in the water, including radon, mercury and lead. In addition, evidence suggests that lakes with chloride impairment may experience more frequent blue-green algae blooms. Worst of all, there is no way to remove salt from our lakes, rivers and streams once it is there. Researchers at the University of Minnesota estimate that 350,000 tons of salt are applied to roads, parking lots and sidewalks in the Twin Cities metro area each year. Of this total, 34% is applied by cities, 21% by counties, 24% by the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and 21% by private property owners. To date, most salt-reduction efforts in Minnesota have focused on training plow drivers and contractors to use “Smart Salting” strategies to reduce their salt use while maintaining public safety. Thanks to certification training, local cities are saving tens of thousands of dollars per year and reducing their annual salt use by several hundred tons. When it comes to commercial properties, however, many property managers mistakenly assume they need a thick, visible layer of salt to keep parking lots and sidewalks safe. In reality, a light dusting of salt is enough to melt ice during warmer temps (above 15°F). Anything remaining after the ice melts is purely wasted and contributes to water pollution. Furthermore, salt actually does not work when pavement temps are below 15°F, so it’s best to use alternative strategies when it’s very cold.
CONTRIBUTED
A view of what too much salt looks like.
One way that homeowners, businesses, homeowner associations and community organizations can help to reduce water pollution from winter salt is by using chicken grit as a no-salt alternative. Chicken grit is made from chipped granite or quartz and is usually fed to chickens and other poultry to aid in digestion. Although it does not melt ice, it provides traction to prevent slips and falls. It is also easier to sweep up and reuse than sand or kitty litter, making it an ideal material for use on sidewalks and driveways. This winter, the South Washington, Ramsey-Washington Metro, Rice Creek, Coon Creek and Vadnais Lakes Area watersheds will be giving away free bags of chicken grit to community residents in the north and east metro. Pickup locations include: • Woodbury Public Works (2300 Tower Dr.) and Cottage Grove Public Works (8635 W. Point Douglas Rd S.) – 24-hour outdoor pickup • Washington County Environmental Center (4039 Cottage Grove Dr.) – weekend pickup
• St. Paul Park Streets Department (649 Fifth St.) – weekday pickup • Participating hardware stores – visit rwmwd.org/get-gritty to find locations in Andover, Arden Hills, Blaine, Circle Pines, Little Canada, Mahtomedi, White Bear Lake, Woodbury and St. Paul. In other locations, you can purchase chicken grit for about $10 a bag at your local hardware or farm supply store. Here are some additional ways to protect lakes and rivers from salt pollution. • Help us track excessive salt use: Every winter, we field dozens of calls and emails from residents worried about salt pollution. We’ve now created an online form to report specific locations, so we can provide these businesses and organizations information about winter salting best practices: tinyurl.com/ toomuchsalt2026.
• Request a salt watch test kit from Izaak Walton League to measure the salinity of a stream or wetland near your home: www.iwla.org/water/ stream-monitoring/salt-watch. • If you hire a winter maintenance contractor, encourage them to get Smart Salt certified through the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency: www.pca. state.mn.us/business-with-us/smartsalting-training. Angie Hong coordinates the East Metro Water Education Program, a local government partnership with 30 members in Chisago, Isanti and Washington counties (www.mnwcd.org/emwrep). Contact her at 651-796-2210 or angie. hong@mnwcd.org.
847694
BY ANGIE HONG SPEICAL TO THE PRESS
Dec 20
Come meet and take pictures with Santa from 1 - 4pm
Dec 25
• Vikings 3:30 pm • Bingo 7 pm 2x $1000 coveralls
Dec 31 NYE
• Mega Bingo 9 pm $500 per game 1x $2000 coverall game. • Free champagne toast HOLIDAY HOURS Dec 24: 11am-6:30pm | Dec 25: 1pm-2am | Dec 31: 11-2am
@LITTLEVILLAGEPUB | LITTLEVILLAGEPUB.COM | 651/330/6305 FOLLOW US: 2670 CO RD E EAST WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110 | MERRICK GAMBLING LICENSE # 00264-065
846605
Open M-F 11am-2am Sat and Sun 8am-2am Kitchen hours M-F 11am-midnight Sat and Sun 8am-midnight Breakfast Served Saturdays & Sundays 8AM - 11:30AM
12 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
Holiday Worship Christ the King Lutheran Church 1660 Birch Lake Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Christmas Eve 846075
Celebrate Christmas with us in person or via livestream! www.ctkwbl.org
847117
846913
Candlelight and Communion Service 4:00 PM
Join us this holiday season–
All are welcome!
12/20 Winter Solstice Service, 6pm
4821 Bloom Avenue • White Bear Lake, MN 55110 651-429-3381 • www.fpcwbl.org
12/21 No-Rehearsal Pageant, 10am 12/24 Tiny (Toddler) Christmas, 2pm 12/24 Christmas Eve Services, 4 & 6pm
SHARE THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS MASSES
wbuuc.org 847450
December 21 – 10:15 am Service of Lessons & Carols Christmas Eve – 6:30 pm
Christmas Eve Services
Thursday, Dec. 25 Christmas Day 10:00 am
Wednesday, December 24
All worship services are available inperson and on our YouTube channel: First Presbyterian White Bear Lake. FPC is wheelchair accessible
12pm Church Online 3pm Family Friendly Service 5pm New Crossings Service w/Candles & Band 10pm Traditions Service w/Candles & Choir
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God Thursday, Jan. 1 at 10:00 am
New Year’s Service Sunday, December 28
1851 Birch St., White Bear Lake 651.429.9026 | wblumc.org
847595
846993
CHRIST IS BORN! Christmas at St. John’s 12.21 10am
Rising Generations Christmas Pageant
12.21 4pm
A Festival of Lessons & Carols
You’re invited to celebrate the birth of our Savior
Christmas Eve 4:00, 6:00, 11:00pm Christmas Day 10:00am
Reception to follow
Christmas Eve
Festive Feast of the Nativity Candlelight Holy Eucharist
South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church 2480 South Shore Blvd., White Bear Lake
847093
Holy Eucharist
2175 1st St (1st & Clark), WBL, MN www.stjohnwilderness.org
791354
Christmas Day 847107
12.25 10am
845127 720230
700 Mahtomedi Ave Mahtomedi, MN 55115 651-426-3245 www.stjudeofthelake.org
10am In-person or church online
12.24 4pm 10:30pm
Wednesday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve 4:00 pm & 8:00 pm
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
Notable revenue changes include: • Franchise fees from Xcel Energy and Ramsey Washington Cable Commission (SCC) are expected to decrease. • Non-business license and permit revenues are trending down with the completion of extensive school district facility projects, and no new significant development projects are planned. • The Minnesota DNR shade tree grant funding for removal of emerald ash borer and tree replacement has been adjusted to match the planned use of funds. • Ambulance revenues and interest revenues are expected to increase.
Notable expenditure changes include: • Salary adjustments and labor contracts (including benefit factors) and a cost-of-living adjustment of 3% • Additional personnel • Forestry management (MN DNR shade tree grant funding) • Hwy 61 median maintenance and required additional MnDOT safety measures • Website hosting and federal ADA compliance add-ons • Required Minnesota Paid Family Leave Program expenditures added, with a 50/50 cost share between the city and employees. Lake, I’m hoping we continue that trend and we’ve went through the painful years so that now we can sustain.” Edberg stressed it’s important to keep in mind the increases to assessed value when talking about property tax increases. He said for 2026, his personal property assessment value went up by $40,000. He pointed out it’s also important to keep in mind the value for what you are getting. “If your taxes went up $700, we (the city of White Bear Lake) is accountable for about $200 of that. For a median value home of $349,000, you pay about $1,100 in taxes a year; that’s about $100 a month for police, fire, ambulance and whole bunch of other stuff. Is life in the city worth $100 a month for streets and all that other stuff?” McCurdy asked Edberg how long he had lived in his home and pointed out that he likely didn’t have a mortgage on it anymore. “I have a $418,000 mortgage, so our finances are very different,” he said. “You’ve already benefited from that (10 years of no increase) and now I’m paying for the lack of oversight from a previous administration.” He added that he was happy to pay for important city services, but his cash flows are starting to “get very tight.” Council Member Bill Walsh encouraged the council going forward to try to pass balanced budgets but said he was supportive of the budget in front of him. “In government, if you want to lower taxes, you have to stop doing things that cost money and that means you have to get rid of people who do those things,” Walsh said. “Who can we get rid of to offset this so taxes don’t go up? I don’t know who those people are.” Council Member Heidi Hughes said she was also supportive of the budget. “I can’t find anything to get rid of. There is not a lot of extra in there,” she said. “We are a city, and the value we provide, you can see. It is the roads, the parks, the police and fire. When you start thinking what do you not want done, there is not a lot of willingness to not do something … There is no extravagance. I wish there was, because we would all go after that.”
Holiday Worship JOIN US IN PRAYER THIS HOLY SEASON Christmas Eve Masses 4 PM, 6 PM & 10 PM
(4 PM Mass Livestreamed)
Christmas Day Masses 9 AM & 11 AM
4741 Bald Eagle Ave White Bear Lake . MN
847060
some of these cities, yet a much smaller tax levy,” she said. “It’s also worth noting that in 2025, 2024 and 2023, White Bear Lake was also at the bottom of the list … Although we are catching up, our levy increase is still less than what New Brighton’s was last year and the same as Shoreview’s in 2023.” Golden Valley is at the top of the list with $1,628 per capita, followed by Hopkins at $1,262 and West St. Paul at $1,229. At the bottom of the list is Fridley at $832, New Brighton at $705, Shoreview at $673 and White Bear Lake at $666. The 2025 budget is also being revised due to a significant surplus, Crawford said, due to higher than anticipated building permits and fees, ambulance transport charges, interest revenues and personnel expenditure savings due to vacant positions. She explained that the 2025 budget planned for a surplus of $15,949, but it will be revised to anticipate a surplus of $90,195. The council heard from two residents during this year’s truth and taxation hearing. “Even though your budget looks good on paper, I had to cut my 401K in anticipation of this property tax increase,” said resident Michael McCurdy. “My property tax bill is going up $700 this year. That might sound insignificant … but $700 in my family is significant.” McCurdy also requested data such as vendor bills and other expenditure records pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13.03. Resident Pat Kolb said he wanted to focus on the history of increases over the last few years. “In 2023, my taxes were $1,045. This year they are going to be $1,555; that’s a $510 increase, or 49% in a three-year period. That’s too steep,” he said. He questioned whether the per capita comparison was a “fair, accurate” calculation and whether the distribution of residential and commercial tax base was factored into that calculation. He also wondered if everything that was listed in the city’s 10-year capital improvement plan was necessary, like the $225,000 budgeted for monument signs on County Road E or the $250,000 for a new sprinkler system at Lakewood Hills Park. “My biggest question is, I want to know what next year looks like … Are we going to do 8% or is it going to go back to 16%? Because we can’t keep going at 49% over a three-year period rate,” he said. Mayor Dan Louismet thanked the gentleman for showing up and said taxes are the topic that has given him “heartburn” during his four-year term as mayor. “Taxes are a big deal, but there are 24,500 residents in White Bear Lake and two people showed up to the truth in taxation hearing,” he said. “It is really hard from our standpoint to gauge what does the general public really think.” Louismet explained that when he stepped into the mayor’s seat, there was a 10-year period where the city did not raise its tax levy. One of the ways the city was able to do that was by having very low wages, causing great employees to leave and find work elsewhere to receive significant wage increases — to the tune of $20,000. He noted that the “overwhelming majority” of increases over the last several years have gone to increasing staff salaries so they “pass the smell test” for a fair salary. Council Member Kevin Edberg added, “Our tax levy was a 0% increase for 10 years … We were at a point where we were losing staff we ought to not have lost because they could go and make a whole lot more somewhere else.” “Over the last three years, I have supported a 20% increase, 15% increase and now finally we are getting closer to reality just under 9%,” Louismet said. “Next year, as a resident of White Bear
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com. 847578
FROM PAGE 1
13
846086
CITY BUDGET: Council says ‘no extravagance’
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
14 VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
PUBLIC NOTICES
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT
CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-25-9148 JUDGE MARK IRELAND NOTICE OF HEARING County of Ramsey, Petitioner, v. 21Como, LLC., BankCherokee, Bridgewater Bank, Comcast of St. Paul, Inc., Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 624 Summit LLC., 623 Pergola LLC., U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for the Registered Holders of Wells Fargo Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc. Multifamily Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2020-SB70, Dragon Building LLC., North American Banking Company, Dragon Star Oriental Foods, Inc., Sen Hao Seng Jewelry, Inc., Soga Mochi Donut, Port Authority of the City of Saint Paul, Old National Bank, Bell Bank, The Burlington Northern and Sante Fe Railway Company (BNSF), BN Leasing Corporation, Towle Financial Services, Inc., Summit Fire Protection Co., Minnesota Conway Fire & Safety, Inc., St. Cloud Equipment Company, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents. IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE RESPONDENTS HEREIN ABOVE NAMED: You, and each of you, are hereby notified that on the 21st day of January, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. via ZOOM before Judge Mark Ireland. Petitioner will present to the above-named court a Petition now on file herein for condemnation of certain land for highway purposes. Parties wishing to appear at the remote hearing at 11:00 a.m. on January 21, 2026, can join by logging into zoom.us/ join or by telephone (audio only/toll-free) at 1-833-568-8864. After connecting, enter the following Meeting ID and Passcode: Meeting ID: 1618120966 Passcode: 312311 If you plan to appear by ZOOM or telephone, please notify the petitioner’s attorney listed below in order to receive a copy of any proposed exhibits and orders provided to the court. You are not required to notify the petitioner’s attorney, but failure to do so may prevent you from having access to the exhibits and proposed orders submitted. The object of the Petition is to acquire by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the real property interests as described in the Petition. The land desired and proposed to be taken is situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota, and is described in the Petition, together with the names of all persons appearing of record or known to Petitioner to be the owners of said land or interested therein including all whom Petitioner has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each as nearly as can be ascertained. At the hearing, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court for an order permitting payment to the respective owners or deposit with the Court an amount equal to Petitioner’s approved appraisal of value of the parcels described in the Petition, thereby transferring title and the right to possession of the property to the County of Ramsey effective January 26, 2026. Furthermore, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to ascertain the allocation of funds so deposited and to establish a procedure for the withdrawal of those funds. Neither payment to the respective owners nor deposit with the Court shall prejudice or affect the right of a respective party to apply for additional payment in this proceeding. Finally, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to establish procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein. A party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the court hearing and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a court order, and a court order approving the public use or public purpose, necessity, and authority for the taking is final unless an appeal is brought within 60 days after service of the order on the party. Furthermore, a party wishing to be heard as to the appointment of the commissioners who will ascertain the amount of damages must appear at the court hearing. Any person not appearing at the hearing, or otherwise filing a notice of appearance with the district court, may not be notified of further hearings or actions related to the Petition. Dated: December 3, 2025 JOHN J. CHOI, Ramsey County Attorney By: Scott Schwahn (#0222239), Kevin Plaisance (#0504690) Assistant Ramsey County Attorneys 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100, St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3041 (Schwahn) ; (651) 266-3178 (Plaisance) Scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us ; Kevin.plaisance@co.ramsey.mn.us Attorneys for Petitioner Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 10, 17 and 24, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT
CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-25-9148 JUDGE MARK IRELAND PETITION County of Ramsey, Petitioner, v. 21Como, LLC., BankCherokee, Bridgewater Bank, Comcast of St. Paul, Inc., Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, 624 Summit LLC., 623 Pergola LLC., U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for the Registered Holders of Wells Fargo Commercial Mortgage Securities, Inc. Multifamily Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2020-SB70, Dragon Building LLC., North American Banking Company, Dragon Star Oriental Foods, Inc., Sen Hao Seng Jewelry, Inc., Soga Mochi Donut, Port Authority of the City of Saint Paul, Old National Bank, Bell Bank, The Burlington Northern and Sante Fe Railway Company (BNSF), BN Leasing Corporation, Towle Financial Services, Inc., Summit Fire Protection Co., Minnesota Conway Fire & Safety, Inc., St. Cloud Equipment Company, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents. IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO: THE DISTRICT COURT ABOVE NAMED The County of Ramsey brings this Petition and respectfully states and alleges: I. That this proceeding is taken pursuant to law in the name of and on behalf of the County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, by John J. Choi, the duly elected, qualified and acting County Attorney, at the request of the Board of County Commissioners of Ramsey County, as shown by County Board Resolution No. B2023-052, dated April 4, 2023, a certified copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof. II. That the County of Ramsey also deems it necessary, expedient, and for a public use and purpose to obtain by “quick take” condemnation under the right
www.presspubs.com
of eminent domain the permanent easements and temporary construction easements in the lands as described in this Petition, together with all structures, trees, shrubs, grass and herbage to be damaged thereby. III. In the attached Exhibit B, where a “temporary easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights of possession and use, for a limited period of time, necessary or incidental to support the related construction project, including the right: to stage equipment or supplies; to access other portions of the construction project; to make minimal permanent alterations to the grade of the land that do not substantially impact the remainder; to remove (and restore in substantially similar condition) any plants, ground cover, or physical improvements; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; and to install any temporary improvements. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained. The term of the temporary easement shall be for 24 months beginning on March 1, 2026, and ending February 28, 2028, or for 24 months from the date when granted pursuant to order of the district court, whichever is later. In addition, the interests identified in this paragraph include the option of the Petitioner to extend the temporary easement for up to two twelve-month terms to be held consecutive to the original term and to each other at the monthly rate determined for the initial term. IV. Personal property not specifically identified as being acquired, including, but not limited to, fencing, irrigation systems, pavement, curbing, or signage, or trees, shrubs, plants, or ground covering, is not included in this petition, except to the extent the above rights provide for the removal, replacement, use, or repair of such property. It is the intention of the Petitioner to address any claim of damage related to personal property destroyed, removed, lost, or otherwise damaged, but not repaired or replaced in substantially similar condition, in accordance with applicable relocation laws, including Minn. Stat. § 117.50 - .56 or the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and any regulations adopted pursuant thereto. V. That the purpose for which said interests in land described in this Petition are being acquired is for the purpose of a road resurfacing project involving traffic signal replacements/modifications for Dale Street running from Iglehart Avenue to Grand Avenue, with additional work at/on the intersections of Thomas and Minnehaha Avenues. The body of work is to repair and upgrade the road as well as to install proper American Disability Act compliant crossings at necessary intersections along the route. VI. The taking in this matter is to obtain rights sufficient to support the construction and maintenance of a public highway, including related facilities. Unless specifically identified, pre-existing utility, pipeline, access, and other easements or interests shall remain in full force and effect and shall only be impaired to the extent necessary for the County of Ramsey to construct and maintain a public highway, and related uses, on the land being acquired. For any parcel being taken by this condemnation proceeding that is subject to preexisting utility, pipeline, access, or other easements or interests, the County of Ramsey shall work as needed with the easement holder to adjust facilities to accommodate the construction or to adjust construction plans to minimize related damages. VII. It is the intent of the Petitioner that reasonable access, in at least one direction, to the main thoroughfare will be maintained for any remaining interest of a property from which a temporary easement is taken. VIII. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, should tests or evaluations undertaken by or on behalf of the County of Ramsey indicate the possible presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous substances on any of the property described in this Petition, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to defer effecting the transfer of the interest to any of the property as described herein for a reasonable time until the County of Ramsey can evaluate whether it wishes to proceed with the taking, abandon these proceedings and dismiss the Petition as to said property, or otherwise respond to such information. Further, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to recover costs of clean-up and testing and all other damages resulting from the presence of pollutants, contaminates, or hazardous substances on the property described herein, from all potentially responsible parties in a separate legal action. IX. That a party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the hearing of this Court at which the County of Ramsey, as Petitioner, shall present this Petition to the Court and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a Court order. X. That the land in these proceedings to be taken are situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota and are more particularly described in attached Exhibit B which is made a part hereof. The names of all persons appearing of record or known to the County of Ramsey to be the owners of said land, or interested therein, including all whom the County of Ramsey has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each, as nearly as can be ascertained, are set forth on attached Exhibit B. XI. The County of Ramsey hereby moves the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels described herein prior to filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 117.042. WHEREFORE, the County of Ramsey prays for an order of this Court as follows: 1. Adjudging that said taking is for a public purpose, is necessary, and is authorized by law; and 2. It be further adjudged that the County of Ramsey is entitled to take and hold such property for the public use pursuant to the Notice of Intent to Take Possession, on file with this Court; and 3. Appointing three disinterested commissioners, and at least two alternates, to ascertain and report the amount of damages that will be sustained by the several owners on account of the taking; fixing the time and place of the first meeting of the three commissioners; prescribing their compensation; establishing procedures for the disbursement of funds deposited with the district court; establishing procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein; and requiring the commissioners to file their report with the District Court Administrator within 365 days from the date of the order appointing the commissioners unless said time be further extended by order of the Court; and 4. For such other and further relief as may be proper and pursuant to law. Dated: May 1, 2025 Dated: December 3, 2025 JOHN J. CHOI, Ramsey County Attorney By: Scott Schwahn (#0222239), Kevin Plaisance (#0504690) Assistant Ramsey County Attorneys 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100, St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3041 (Schwahn) ; (651) 266-3178 (Plaisance) Scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us ; Kevin.plaisance@co.ramsey.mn.us Attorneys for Petitioner ACKNOWLEDGMENT The undersigned hereby acknowledges that costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney and witness fees may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 549.211 to the party against whom the allegations in this pleading are asserted. /s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn
DECEMBER 17, 2025
EXHIBIT A RAMSEY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION B2023-052 Sponsor: Public Works Meeting Date: 4/4/2023 Title: 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program File Number: 2023-120 Background and Rationale: To qualify for state and federal funding and to proceed with construction projects, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners must approve the Public Works 5-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is a planning document and funding estimates identified in the TIP are reflected in the county’s Capital Improvements Program Budget. Similar programs have been developed each year since 1988. The Public Works department, annually, prepares the TIP using a collaborative process whereby the county solicits projects and input from area municipalities. Project inclusion in the TIP is based on a cooperative dialogue with municipal and state partners, along with technical analysis and consideration of funding opportunities. While funding limits will continue to challenge program delivery, communication and engagement with municipal partners ensures local needs and priorities are examined and addressed to the extent possible. Projects included in the TIP are also looked at through the lens of the Ramsey County All Abilities Transportation Network policy, which prioritizes the most vulnerable users (i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, people with disabilities, etc.) first. The design, construction, and right-of-way costs identified in the TIP are estimates based on best practices in the industry. The funding landscape for transportation projects can be volatile and the ultimate delivery of the TIP is dependent on future funding levels. Partnering on projects with area communities, bordering counties, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and other state agencies will continue to be a critical way for Ramsey County to get the most from available funds. Recommendation: The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to: 1. Adopt the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program. 2. Authorize the County Engineer to prepare plans and agreements for all projects identified in the Transportation Improvement Program, and to issue solicitations in accordance with County policies and procedures and the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s list of “Pre-Qualified Vendors by Work Type”. 3. Authorize the County Surveyor to execute Right of Way Plats and Certificate of Surveys for Highway projects that require the determination of existing right of way for the delineation and /or acquisition of property, for planning studies or disposition of excess county property. 4. Authorize the County Manager to enter into contracts and agreements, and execute change orders and amendments to contracts, supplemental agreements, and agreements related to the expenditure of Transportation Improvement Program Project Funds utilizing County State Aid, Federal, State, and participating funding associated with the construction of the approved projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program or a previously approved Transportation Improvement Program in accordance with the county’s procurement policies and procedures. 5. Authorize the County Engineer and County Attorney to acquire temporary easements, permanent easements, fee title, and enter into Limited Use Permits with the State of Minnesota for projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, by negotiation or condemnation. 6. Authorize the Public Works Director to approve negotiated settlements for up to $100,000 over the county’s appraised value per parcel for temporary and permanent easements and fee title. 7. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute purchase agreements, settlements, closing documents, Limited Use Permits, and other related real estate documentation associated with County Board approved acquisitions of real property. 8. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute cooperative agreements and maintenance agreements with cities, counties, the state, and other governmental agencies for their participation in projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program. 9. Authorize temporary cash loans from the County General Fund to the Road and Bridge Capital Improvement Program fund and the Wheelage Tax fund for costs of projects listed in the 2023 -2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, and for maintenance project expenditures occurring before bond or wheelage tax proceeds are received pending receipt of Federal, County State Aid Highway, state and participating funds. 10. Authorize the Public Works Director to submit grant applications for state and federal funding for projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program. 11. Authorize the County Manager to accept grants and execute grant agreements agreeing to the grant terms and conditions for the grant award. For grants that so require, the county agrees to be responsible for any additional amount by which the cost exceeds the county’s construction cost estimate and will return to the grantor any grant amount appropriated for the project but not utilized for the project under the terms of the grant agreement. 12. Authorize the County Manager to issue letters of support in place of an official Ramsey County Board Resolution for constituent cities’ grant applications. A motion to approve was made by Commissioner McGuire, seconded by Commissioner Reinhardt. Motion passed. Aye: - 7: Frethem, MatasCastillo, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, and Xiong By: Mee Cheng, Chief Clerk - County Board I, Jason Yang, Interim Chief Clerk - County Board, duly appointed and qualified for Ramsey County, Minnesota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution B2023-052, passed by the Board of Commissioners on 04/04/2023 Attest: Jason Yang, Chief Clerk - County Board Date Certified: 2/25/2025 EXHIBIT B PARCEL 31 TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Over, under and across the north 4.3 feet of the east 8.5 feet and the east 3.0 feet of the south 7.7 feet of the north 12.0 feet, except for a triangular portion with 2.0 foot sidelines measured northerly and westerly from the southeast corner of said east 3.0 feet of the north 12.0 feet, of the following described property: Lot 1, Block 2, SUMMIT PARK ADDITION TO ST. PAUL, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. PIN: 02-28-23-41-0069 – Abstract Property ADDRESS: 622 Grand Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105
(Continued on next page)
EXHIBIT B PARCEL 31 TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: EXHIBIT B
PUBLIC NOTICES
Over, under and across the north 4.3 feet of the east 8.5 PARCEL 31 feet and the east 3.0 feet of the south 7.7 feet of the north 12.0 feet, except for a triangular portionDESCRIPTION: with 2.0 foot sidelines measured TEMPORARY EASEMENT northerly and westerly from the southeast corner of said east 3.0 feet of the north 12.0 feet, of the following described property: Over, under and across the north 4.3 feet of the east 8.5 feet and the east 3.0 feet of the south 7.7 feet17,of2025 the north 12.0 feet, except for a triangular portion with 2.0 foot sidelines measured DECEMBER Lotand 1, westerly Block 2, from SUMMIT PARK ADDITION TOeast ST.3.0 PAUL, according the feet, of the northerly the southeast corner of said feet of the northto12.0 recorded platproperty: thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. following described
www.presspubs.com
VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
15
PIN: 02-28-23-41-0069 – Abstract Property Lot 1, Block 2, SUMMIT PARK ADDITION TO ST. PAUL, according to the ADDRESS: 622 Grand Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105 recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. NAME NATURE OF INTEREST Reference information PIN: 02-28-23-41-0069 – Abstract Property present: Dr. Val Rae Boe, superintendent. (Continued 21Como,from LLC previous page) Fee Owner ADDRESS: 622 Grand Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105 Approval of Agenda BankCherokee Mortgagee Adopted the agenda as presented, limited discussion to the approved Bridgewater Bank Mortgagee NAME NATURE OF INTEREST Reference information agenda, and accepted the list of items proposed for consent adoption. Comcast of St. Paul, Inc. Right of Way Easement for 21Como, LLC Fee Owner Board Calendar Dates Broadband Communication • Tuesday, November 11, 2025 — AMSD and Brightworks Annual BankCherokee Mortgagee Minnesota Pollution Control Right of Access Easement Conference at 8:15 a.m. Bridgewater Bank Mortgagee Agency • Sunday, November 23, 2025 – 916 Education Foundation Tee Off for Comcast of St. Paul, Inc. Right of Way Easement for City of St. Paul Possible Special Assessments Education Event, 12-3pm at Top Golf, Brooklyn Center Broadband Communication County of Ramsey Possible Property Taxes • Wednesday, December 10, 2025 — School Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m. Minnesota Pollution Control Right of Access Easement Questions and/or Comments from Citizens Present on Non-Agenda Agency Items City of St. Paul Possible Special Assessments None. PARCEL 33 County of Ramsey Possible Property Taxes Presentation: Intermediate School Districts Career and College TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Readiness School Board heard a summary of a presentation that was given PARCEL 33 of the east 18.8 feet and the east 3.3 feet The Over, under and across the north 4.0 feet of the south PARCEL 33 at the AESA Central Region Symposium which highlighted the MSC CTE EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: 14.0 feet ofTEMPORARY the north 18.0 feet of the following described property: TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Consortium grant and the innovative work being done by the Intermediate Over, under and across the north 4.0 feet of the east 18.8 feet and the east School Districts. 3.3 feet of the south 14.0 feet of the north 18.0 feet of the following described Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, SUMMIT PARK ADDITION, Ramsey County, property: Over, under and across the north 4.0 feet of the east 18.8 feet and the east 3.3 feet Presentation: of the south First Reading of School Board Policy Minnesota. Policy 613 was presented as a first reading and will be brought back in Lots14.0 1 feet and of2,theBlock SUMMIT PARK ADDITION, north 1, 18.0 feet of the following describedRamsey property:County, December for approval. Minnesota. PIN: 02-28-23-41-0001 – Torrens Property – Certificate Title 641336 Superintendent’s Report PIN: 02-28-23-41-0001 – Torrens Property – Certificate of of Title No.No. 641336 Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, SUMMIT PARK ADDITION, Ramsey County, Superintendent Boe commented on the following items that were included ADDRESS: Summit Avenue, Saint Paul,MN MN 55105 ADDRESS: 624624 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, 55105 Minnesota. PARCEL 44 in her written report: (a) Member Highlights; (b) Bridges to Success; (c) Legislative Update; (d) Docu-Series Showcase; and (e) Strategic Actions TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: NAME NATURE OF INTEREST Reference information PIN: 02-28-23-41-0001 – Torrens Property – Certificate of Title No. 641336 Benchmark Highlight. 624 Summit, LLC Fee Owner ADDRESS: 624 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55105 Approval Over,ofunder and across the south 6.0Possible feet of the east 7.5 feet and the east 4.5 feet of the northof the Consent Agenda City St. Paul Special Assessments PARCEL 44 Approved the consent items, accepted as part of the approval of the agenda, 19.0 feet of the south 25.0 feet of thePossible following described property: County Property Taxes NAME of Ramsey NATURE OF INTEREST Reference information TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: consistent with the recommended actions presented by the administration. 624 Summit, LLC Fee Owner Approval of Minutes Lots 28, 29 and 30, Block 8, HOLCOMBE’S ADDITION TO SAINT PAUL, PARCEL 44 Payment City St. Paul Special Assessments Over,ofunder and across the south 6.0Possible feet of the east 7.5 feet and the east 4.5 feet of the north of Bills and ACH Payments according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Personnel County Property Taxes 19.0 feetofofRamsey the south 25.0 feet of thePossible following described property: Over, under and across the south 6.0 feet of the east 7.5 feet and the east Approval of 2026 School Board Meeting Dates 10 PIN: 02-28-23-11-0281 – Abstract Property 4.5 feet of the north 19.0 feet of the south 25.0 feet of the following described Approved school board meeting dates for the 2026 calendar year. Lots 28, and 30, BlockSaint 8, HOLCOMBE’S ADDITION TO SAINT PAUL, ADDRESS: 62329 Laurel Avenue, Paul, MN 55104 property: Adopt Proposed Policy Modifications the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. Lots 28, 29according and 30, to Block 8, HOLCOMBE’S ADDITION TO SAINT PAUL, Adopted School Board Policies 203.1, 206, 301, 305, 602, 701, 704, and according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. NAME NATURE OF Reference information 10 INTEREST 805 as revised. PIN: 02-28-23-11-0281 – Abstract Property PIN:623 02-28-23-11-0281 – Abstract Property Pergola, LLC Fee Owner Approval of School Board Policy ADDRESS: 623 Laurel Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55104 ADDRESS: Laurel Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55104 Adopted Policy 806 as presented in September with no changes made. U.S. Bank623 National Association, Mortgagee Approval of 916 Language Access Plan as Trustee for the Registered NAME NATURE OF INTEREST Reference information Approved the Language Access Plan as presented. Holders of Wells Fargo 623 Pergola, LLC Fee Owner Approval of T-Mobile Devices and Services Commercial Mortgage U.S. Bank National Association, Mortgagee Approved the continued rollout and purchase of new services and radios Securities, Inc., Multifamily as Trustee for the Registered supplied by T-Mobile Government. Mortgage Pass-Through Board Forum Holders of Wells Certificates, SeriesFargo 2020-SB70 A discussion was held regarding school board elections and levies in each Commercial Mortgage City of St. Paul Possible Special Assessments of the Member Districts. Securities, Inc., Multifamily County of Ramsey Possible Property Taxes Chair Forsberg shared that MSBA handouts were sent to local boards and Mortgage Pass-Through will also be emailed out. Certificates, Series 2020-SB70 Four School Board Members present at the meeting will be part of Delegate City of St. Paul Possible Special Assessments PARCEL 57 Assembly in December. County of Ramsey Possible Property Taxes TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: Meeting Adjourned Adjourned the meeting at 6:53 p.m. PARCEL 57 Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 17, 2025. Over, under and across the south 9.0 feet of the west 18.0 feet of the following described PARCEL 57 TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION: property: TEMPORARY EASEMENT Over, under and across the south 9.0 feet of the westDESCRIPTION: 18.0 feet of the RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA following described property: Lot 2, Block 1, GREAT NORTHERN BUSINESS CENTER SECOND PUBLIC NOTICE Lot Over, 2, Block NORTHERN CENTER under1, andGREAT across the south 9.0 feetBUSINESS of the west 18.0 feet ofSECOND the following described ADDITION,toaccording to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES ADDITION, according the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, property: Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar as Minnesota. an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Section 331A.03 of the 25-29-23-33-0024 – Abstract Property PIN:PIN: 25-29-23-33-0024 – Abstract Property Lot 2,0 Block 1, GREAT NORTHERN BUSINESS CENTER SECONDMinnesota Statutes. Individuals may go to the “How to Contract with Ramsey ADDRESS: Minnehaha Avenue West, SaintPaul, Paul,MN MN55103 55103 ADDRESS: 0 Minnehaha Avenue Saint ADDITION, according toWest, the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. County” section of the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage at ramseycounty.us/ContractWithRamsey to access registration information. NAME NATURE OF INTEREST Reference information PIN: 25-29-23-33-0024 – Abstract Property If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the DemandStar registration Port Authority of the City of Fee Owner instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” webpage. Access ADDRESS: 0 Minnehaha Avenue West, Saint Paul, MN 55103 Saint Paul to all Ramsey County documents is free if the instructions that are posted Old National Bank Mortgagee areinformation followed. You may call 651-266-8072 or email ProcurementTeam@ NAME NATURE OF INTEREST Reference Bell Bank Mortgagee ramseycounty.us if you need assistance. Port Authority of the City of Fee Owner The Burlington Northern and Use & Operation, Compliance Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids Saint Paul Santa Fe Railway Company & Monitoring, Environmental (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are Old National Bank Mortgagee (BNSF) Purposes and Drainage & conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. BellLeasing Bank Corporation Mortgagee BN Utility Easement To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan The Burlington Use & Operation, Compliance Towle FinancialNorthern Services,and Inc. Tenant SOLICITATION: RFB-PRMG35953-MM Santa Fe Railway Company & Monitoring, Environmental OPENING DATE: JANUARY 8, 2026 Summit Fire Protection Co. Tenant 11Drainage & (BNSF) Purposes and PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY SEEKS A PRIME Minnesota Conway Fire & Tenant CONTRACTOR FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS EMERGENCY GENERATOR Safety, Inc. PROJECT AT 1425 PAUL KIRKWOLD DR, ARDEN HILLS, MN. WORK St. Cloud Fire Equipment Tenant INCLUDES, BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO, REPLACING TWO EMERGENCY Company 11 DIESEL GENERATORS, FOUR AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES, City of St. Paul Possible Special Assessments RELATED INTERCONNECTIONS, AND REMOVING THE EXISTING County of Ramsey Possible Property Taxes UNDERGROUND FUEL TANK. PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: 1425 PAUL Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 10, 17 KIRKWOLD DR, ARDEN HILLS, MN 55112, DECEMBER 18, 2025, 9:30AM and 24, 2025. CST SOLICITATION: RFB-PUBW30775-MM OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA OPENING DATE: JANUARY 15, 2026 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH THE SECRETARY OF STATE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SEEKS A PRIME CONTRACTOR FOR CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME THE TAMARACK WETLAND BANK OUTLET REPLACEMENT ALONG Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is HAMMOND ROAD IN THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE. THIS WORK or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of INCLUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO EXCAVATION, SHEET PILING, Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies: CONCRETE CURB AND GUTTER, RESTORATION OF BITUMINOUS 1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: ROAD, EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL, PAVEMENT MARKING, Family Painters llc SIGNING, AND SITE RESTORATION. 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 17, 2025. 2833 Edgerton St., Little Canada, MN 55117 3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY this business. DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT Maximilliano Rodrigues-Cortes PROBATE COURT DIVISION 2833 Edgerton St., Little Canada, MN 55117 COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-840 Alpha Painting Co. LLC NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE 2833 Edgerton St., Little Canada, MN 55117 OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND Alba Cortes NOTICE TO CREDITORS 2833 Edgerton St., Little Canada, MN 55117 In re the Estate of: I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that Charles Roger Nellessen, I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of Decedent. perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 1:45 oath. p.m. until 2:00 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Dated: December 4, 2025 Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s Signed: Alba Cortes, partner last will dated July 16, 2024(“Will”), and for the appointment of Michael Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 17 and Nellessen, whose address is 1381 Floral Drive West, Arden Hills, MN 55112, 24, 2025. as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration. NORTHEAST METRO 916 Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA calling the Court at 651-266-8145. BOARD NOTES NOVEMBER 5, 2025 Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to The regular meeting of the School Board of Northeast Metro 916 or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the Intermediate School District was held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the 6:00 p.m. at Bellaire School and the following business was transacted. estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, Meeting Called to Order taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all The meeting was called to order by Chair Forsberg at 6:01 p.m. necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be Roll Call of Attendance scheduled. 12 Members present: Knisely-12, Palmer-13, Jones-14, Forsberg-16, Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be Oksnevad-282, Bock-621, Clark-623, Daniels-624, Rebelein-831, and given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Thelander-834. Members Absent: Nitardy-622, Stout-832, and Dols-833. Also 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: November 13, 2025 Petitioner is a Self-Represented Litigant Michael Nellessen 1381 Floral Drive West, Arden Hills, MN 55112 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 10 and 17, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT
COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-1031 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL) In re the Estate of Lillian Marjorie Tallaksen, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an application for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Court. No will has been presented for probate. The application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Joel Eric Tallaksen, 1102 Park Avenue, Morris, MN 56267 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. § 524.3607, 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. 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: December 8, 2025 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 17 and 24, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT
COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-1026 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of Glenn David Goetz, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on December 10, 2025 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated July 17, 2000 (“Will”) has been filed with the Probate Registrar, and the Amended Application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Lynne P. Kuhlman, 873 O’Day Street South, Maplewood MN 55119 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: December 10, 2025 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 17 and 24, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION
COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-857 NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Estate of: Bettie Lewis, Decedent. NOTICE is given that on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated July 24, 1992 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Kathryn Harris, whose address is 543 Central Avenue W., Saint Paul, MN 55103, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145. Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled. Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5. NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons 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. Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator Date: November 14, 2025 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on December 17 and 24, 2025.
16 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
SP TTED AROUND TOWN
1. The family of Griffin Runze has once again decorated the covered bridge along the Lake Links Trail at Streetcar Park in Mahtomedi with holiday greens, ribbons, wreaths and lighting. The Runze family donated funds several years ago to construct the bridge in memory of Griffin, who passed away in 2017. With this year’s bountiful snow, it’s a perfect spot for holiday snapshots! — Mary Hoff, contributed 2. The Mahtomedi Area Food Shelf held its annual Tree of Light ceremony Dec. 5 at Veterans Memorial Park. — Ian Harding, contributed 3. Frassati Catholic Academy hosted its annual Christmas Concert on Dec. 4, featuring music by the school’s kindergarten through eighth-grade students. — Contributed 4. Late Thursday, Dec. 11 this vehicle ended up on the walk/bike path along Lake Avenue near the intersection at Highway 96 and Highway 61. — Contributed
3
1
2
4
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.
SPOTLIGHT
847433
ON BUSINESS
Lorem ipsum
Dental Care For The Entire Family
White Bear Lake Dental
In-Ground Pools • Spas • Saunas Parts • Services • Chemicals
305 Stillwater Road
Pies for the holidays
... apple pies, pumpkin pies, and more from Pine Tree’s own recipes. Also a wonderful selection of apples, cider, jams & jellies, beautifully packaged in gift boxes and baskets. North of White Bear Lake off E. Hwy 96 in Apple Orchard Road
Dr. Joy Johnson
SAME DAY CROWNS with CEREC® Technology NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
651-653-6807 651-439-5632 Sales@ParagonPoolandSpa.com ParagonPoolandSpa.com
OIL CHANGE STARTING AT
$49.99
+ TAX
SYNTHETIC & CONVENTIONAL
• Routine Cleanings • Fillings • Teeth Whitening • Implants, Bridges, Partials, Dentures • All on Four Implant Restorations
845976 720985 791515
• Digital X-rays
Visit our newly renovated office and you will find all modern equipment paired with a caring staff.
Knutsen Auto: (651) 429-4244 | (651) 429-9234 2015 Fifth Street, White Bear Lake, MN 55110
834601
844716
651-653-3802
Stillwater
1280 Frontage Road W 828989
Mahtomedi
DR. JOY JOHNSON
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 37 YEARS!
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff • Jewelry appraisals • Free Ring Cleaning and Inspection • We Buy Gold
Most Insurance Accepted
Financing Available
White Bear Jewelers 4421 Lake Ave. S., White Bear 651-429-6822
2024
2025
WINNER Best of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
WINNER Best of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
2023
of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
www.whitebearjewelers.com
842920
651-653-3802 4100 Bellaire Avenue WhiteBearLakeDental.com 828988
651-429-7202
Vacation in your own backyard
Paragon Pools
Specializing in cosmetic dentistry & same day crowns! 4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110
White Bear Lake Dental
AROUND
Specializing in cosmetic dentistry & same day crowns!
THE LAKE
INSIDE:
CLASSIFIEDS
SERVICE DIRECTORY
651-653-3802
4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110
SPORTS
842909
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2025
DR. JOY JOHNSON
VFW: Request for more slips moves forward PAGE 22
PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Angelic ice sculpture construction Above: The completed ice angel sculpture shimmers in the early evening, winter twilight in Downtown White Bear Lake. It is among several ice sculptures currently on display in front of downtown businesses as part of the holiday festivities and locally cultivated hometown shopping experience. The EH Team will again be competing in the upcoming Winter Carnival Ice Carving competition. Find more photos online at presspubs.com.
Above: Paul and Deneena Hughes recently constructed an ice sculpture in front of Rust Architects in Downtown White Bear Lake. Because they moved from Canada to the United States they call themselves The EH Team in reference to their heritage in Alberta. At right: Starting with several blocks of ice and a sketch plan, the couple spent hours building and refining the shape and features of their icy creation. A trumpet was one of the final details added before a blowtorch was used to add a clear sheen.
Also a wonderful selection of apples, cider, jams & jellies, beautifully packaged in gift boxes and baskets. North of White Bear Lake off E. Hwy 96 in Apple Orchard Road
Polar Bear Store Scan for this week’s specials!
Concrete Polar Bears 651-429-5356
www.medchestmn.com
835652
651-429-7202
845976 720985 791515
2187 Fourth Street, WBL, MN 55110
THE ANCHOR COFFEE HOUSE Shop Local • Support Local! 4742 WASHINGTON SQ.
anchorcoffeewbl.com
4630 Centerville Rd, White Bear Lake | 651-653-0000
834465
... apple pies, pumpkin pies, and more from Pine Tree’s own recipes.
779770 841959
Pies for the holidays
18 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
explore. Evencook. more in store! create.
We will close at 4 pm on Wednesday 12/24 and reopen Friday 12/26 at 6 am
Simply Orange
SAVE $1 .50
Juice
46-52 oz Selected Varieties
3
99
Simply Potatoes
Crystal Farms
All Natural Shredded or Chunk Cheese 5.5-8 oz Selected Varieties
USDA
Premium Fresh Black Angus 85% Lean Ground Round
6
5
2/$
SAVE $1 .00
49
5
11.5-12 inch Selected Varieties
lb
SAVE up
to $2.00
lb
3 Pg 1
lb
SAVE $4 .99
5-8 oz Original or Kettle Cooked Selected Varieties BUY ONE GET ONE
FREE Pepsi Products
5
99 with
Fresh Made In-Store!
Try Our Baked Ziti Recipe
@festivalfoods.net
Selected Varieties
49
Pillsbury
SAVE up to
Sweet Rolls, Crescents, or Grands! Biscuits
$2.22
8-16.3 oz Selected Varieties
2
77
SAVE up
Nestlé
Coffee mate Flavored Creamer
to $1.50
32 oz or
Cold Foam Creamer
14 oz, Selected Varieties
4
49
Fresh Bakery
Cinnamon Rolls
SAVE up
to $1.50
6 count Selected Varieties
without card 6.99
Fresh Bulk Pork Sausage
99
Lay’s Potato Chips
NO COUPON NECESSARY
12/12 oz Cans Selected Varieties
lb
Mild or Hot Italian or Plain
Frito Lay
Cut Potatoes 20 oz
2 FREE
NO COUPON NECESSARY
99
Our Own Made In-Store
Limit 6 Offers
Lotzza Motzza, BUY ONE GET ONE MVP or Patriot Pizza
Fresh Ground In-Store!
lb
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Breast Tenders
Brew Pub
SAVE $1 .50
Pepsi Products
6/16.9 oz Bottles Selected Varieties
4
99
Prices Effective: Wednesday, December 10th through Wednesday, December 24th, 2025
4
99
Bays
English Muffins
SAVE $1 .70
6 count Selected Varieties
2
99
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
festivalfoods.net FF 12-10
Andover, 2218 Bunker Lake Blvd NW - (763) 755-1415 Bloomington, 401 W 98th St - (952) 358-7480 Brooklyn Park, 8535 Edinburgh Centre Dr - (763) 425-6640 Hugo, 14775 Victor Hugo Blvd N - (651) 762-3618 Lexington, 9101 S Hwy Dr - (763) 786-2278 White Bear Lake, 2671 Co Rd E East - (651) 653-8888 Valid through Wednesday, December 24th, 2025 | festivalfoods.net
FESTIVALFOODS.NET 847237
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
19
OBITUARIES
David Lee VanOrsdel
Debra Ann Massa (Lampert)
Ruth Loretta Wilson
David Lee VanOrsdel passed away peacefully at his home at The Glen, an Assisted Living Center in Minnetonka, Minnesota on November 20, 2025. He was 95 years old. Born in Fergus Falls, Minnesota on January 12, 1930, David & his family spent his childhood growing up on a farm & going to a one room schoolhouse during the Depression. Lessons learned lasted a lifetime as David was known for his work ethic & kindness to people regardless of their circumstances throughout his life. After his parents, Cecil & Gladys ‘Toots’ VanOrsdel moved to Little Falls, Minnesota, David continued his education at Little Falls High School where he graduated in 1947. It was in high school where he met his beloved wife Dorothy Marie Anderson. Working multiple jobs, National Guard responsibilities & the Korean War all needed attention before David & Dorothy were able to get married on January 14, 1952 in North St. Paul, Minnesota. In 1957, after graduation from the St Cloud State Teachers College with a BS Degree in Business Education, David joined the Great Northern Railway Company as a Tax Auditor. Traveling the railways wasn’t easy being away from home so in 1959, David accepted the position of District 624 Transportation Director. It was the White Bear Lake School District that David found himself surrounded by fabulous teachers, other administrators & students. He held a variety of leadership roles in business, building & oversight throughout his 30 plus years helping WBL District 624 become one of best public school districts in the state of Minnesota. After retiring, David went to work at Target as a stocking clerk where he retired again after 25 years of service. When not working, David’s pass time was spent following his two grandchildren around the state & country as they pursued their dreams of sports. David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Dorothy, his brothers Douglas & Darrell & sister Doris (Jeanie) Almquist. He is survived by his sister Mary Yungner, his only child, Scott and wife Lil Lundeen and their two children David ( Verona Italy) & Danny and wife Kelly of Hilton Head, So Carolina. David was interned after a private ceremony at Lakeside Cemetery in Mahtomedi, Minnesota on November 28, 2025. Plans are being worked out for a Celebration of Life event later next spring to honor David’s lifetime & contribution to the WBL community.
Age 71, of White Bear Lake, MN. Born January 21, 1954, White Bear Lake, MN, passed away surrounded by her family. Debbie was a Beloved Wife, mother and grandmother. Debbie is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 47 years, Joe, and her much-loved daughter Jaymi, and daughter in law Erin. Also survived by her grandchildren, each of whom she cherished and loved beyond words, Maddie (Jacob), Allie and Amelia. Debbie was preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Louanne Lampert and son Jayson Massa. Debbie will be remembered for her devotion to her family and her love of the Gull Lake area. Debbie was a 40+ year employee of St. Paul Companies/Travelers Insurance. The Massa family would like to thank Harmony Gardens for caring for her over the past 2 years. She will be missed by many. Visitation will be at HONSA FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 2460 East County Rd E in White Bear Lake on Tuesday, December 16, from 5-7pm. Private Family Interment at Lakewood Cemetery in Minneapolis on Wednesday December 17. Arrangements by Honsa Family Funeral Home. 651-429-6172
Age 92. Born September 28th, 1933 in Ladysmith, WI., to Walter and Freda Young. Ruth was the youngest of nine children. She was a fun, spirited girl who loved life. She was a homecoming queen who is now with our heavenly king. Ruth is survived by the love of her life, Kenneth Wilson. Ken and Ruth were high school sweethearts, best of friends, and each other’s biggest supporters. Ken and Ruth were blissfully married for 73 years. Ruth was strong in character, always saw the glass half full and willing to make sacrifices. The two of them created a wonderful family of nine children where she shined as a mother and wife. Ruth didn’t let motherhood keep her from having an adventure; she was giddy about Halloween, and loved to dress as a witch, hide in the shadows, and scare the unsuspecting neighbor kids. She organized Christmas talent shows for her children and eventually the grandkids. She learned to downhill ski alongside with her crew of kids, canoed with her family on the Flambeau River, and took up golf as a retiree. She was full of fun and most importantly love. Ruth was a first-rate travel companion and loved to “hit the road” with Kenny in retirement. Their RV made frequent trips to Branson, MO and Grand Junction, CO, their favorite destination was Maui, which holds a special place in their hearts. Ruth is survived by her nine children; Lorinda Mishek (Jim), Ken Mark Wilson (Shannon), Shelley Renner (Rick), Barb Paulson (Jeff), Kim Esch (Mike), Dianne Carlson (Tony), Amy Graebner (Paul), Ned Wilson (Theresa), Neil Wilson (Sarah), thirty grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. It seemed she always had a baby in her arms. Ruth’s memory will be cherished by all of us who loved her, may she be forever Young. A private family service and interment is planned. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the White Bear Lake Food Shelf or Hugo Food Shelf. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944 www.muellermemorial.com
Terry Post Age 41 of White Bear Lake. Celebration of Terry’s life will be Sat., Dec. 20, 2025, 11 am at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Rd., Mahtomedi with visitation 1 hour prior to service at the church. Bradshaw - 651-439-551 www.bradshawfuneral.com
Kara Ann Meslow Age 30, of Mahtomedi, passed away unexpectedly on December 8, 2025. Preceded in death by grandparents, Violet and Richard Larson; greatuncle, John Meslow; and cousin, Peter Meslow. She will be deeply missed by parents, Dave and Lori; sister, Dana (Al) Orlando; nieces, Ellie & Frankie; grandparents, Bob and Karen Meslow; so many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Kara was a talented fun- loving woman. Her smile lit up the whole room. She was an outstanding golfer at Mahtomedi High School and a Division 1 player. She received the Presidential Academic Team Award and was on the Hip Hop Dance Team at North Dakota State University. Kara loved writing music, singing, and had a strong Christian faith. A celebration of Kara’s life will be Tuesday, December 23, 2025, 11:00 A.M. at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi with visitation one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Camp Odayin (campodayin.org)
Resident of Kingsley Shores, passed away peacefully December 3. Visitation Friday December 19, 10am. Mass of resurrection at 11. Luncheon to follow.
FREE TRIP CHARGE
(Full Name)
$109 value!
Your Hometown Estate Planning Attorney WILLS | TRUSTS | ELDER LAW | HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVE POWER OF ATTORNEY
S H E I L A J . K E L LY AT T O R N E Y AT L AW
With repair
2024
WINNER Best of the Press
Valid during regular business hours • Expires 12/31/25
651-426-5220
Best of the Press
Read our reviews and check out our current promotions at
www.krinkies.com
When you need us, we are here to help.
847532
2023
BEST
2021 BEST OF THE PRESS
FREE Initial 1/2 Hour Office Consultation 4856 Banning Avenue White Bear Lake 612.568.8758 skelly@sheilakellylaw.com www.sheilakellylaw.com
WINNER
BEST OF
WINNER
BEST OF
’22
’21
846589
*Servicing all brands Licensed, Bonded, Insured
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
24/7 Emergency Service Serving the St. Paul and Surrounding Area
To Submit an Obit Call: 651-407-1250 Email: obits@presspubs.com Visit us at: 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN
Age 92, passed away December 9, 2025. Preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Tom Zwickel, Sr. Survived by son Tom, Jr. (Sue), daughter Nancy (Dean) and 7 grandchildren. Visitation will be held Sunday January 4, 2026 from 2:00-4:00 at: www.Washburn-McReavy.com Hillside Chapel 612-781-1999 2610 19th Ave. NE, Minneapolis
Lois A. Harvey
Obituaries honor unique lives. Years and age listed here followed by the names of family members, life accomplishments, places traveled, jobs held, or descriptions of what was important to the person.
Arlene Lindbeck Zwickel
20 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
SCHOOL BRIEF
BUSINESS BRIEF
CHURCH BRIEFS
‘Cinderella’ most attended show in history
Primp Boutique announces closure of all locations
Blue Christmas Service
Community of Grace gives back
Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many people. Anyone who is grieving loss, who has unhappy memories or who simply feels alone is encouraged to attend a special service aimed at offering comfort and nurturing this season. The service features a time of quiet contemplation, soothing music, hope and healing at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake.
Thanks to the generosity of members at the Community of Grace Lutheran Church, more than 800 local families were given Thanksgiving dinners from the White Bear Lake Area Food Shelf. In addition to 1,678 pounds of diapers, the church family also donated over $7,300 to the food shelf to be used on diapers.
White Bear Lake Area High School’s fall musical, “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella’ is now the most attended show in the district’s history. “Cinderella” was the first musical performed in the new 845-seat Performing Arts Center addition at the high school; over 4,000 students, staff, family and community members attended. Additionally, “Cinderella” received numerous Outstanding distinctions from the Hennepin Spotlight Trust, including Achievement in Musical Theatre, Overall Technical Production and Overall Performance. Individual students also received numerous Outstanding, Honorable Mention and Evaluator Shoutout distinctions. “I am so very proud of our talented and hard working students,” commented the show’s director, Wendy Suoja. “They shined on stage and made our community proud. Thank you to White Bear Lake Area families for coming to the show. We appreciate your support!”
Primp Boutique’s last day of business will be Dec. 23. Founder Wesley Uthus recently announced the closure on Instagram. “After 15 years, it is time to close the doors of Primp and say goodbye to this chapter. My heart is broken,” Uthus wrote. “I’m so grateful for every moment, every conversation, every employee and every customer who made Primp what it is.” Primp began in 2010 with its location on Selby Avenue in St. Paul with a mission “to create an affordable boutique with a high-end experience.” At one point, the boutique had nine locations. The White Bear Lake location, at 4766 Banning Ave., opened its doors in 2013. All the remaining locations will host a farewell sale through Dec. 23.
CLASSIFIEDS
Press Publications suggests that you be aware of advertisers requesting payment for shipping merchandise. Confirm and verify all contact resources prior to sending any money. Take caution when responding to text messages that are not local numbers.
23
Free Items
150
Help Wanted
150
Help Wanted
150
FREE WOOD DELIVERED White Bear Lake & Hugo area
104
Scrap metal,appliance p/u 651*/329*0815
150
Help Wanted AGE 55+ WORKERS needed for part-time custodial work at rest areas and state parks in Minnesota. Apply online at greenviewmn.com or call 651/*639*1913 White Bear Country Inn is hiring a PT Front desk clerk. Send resume to Jschoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call 651*/272*3783 Press Publications is hiring an Administrative Assistant, for 2 days/week, 10 hours total. Send resume to ar@presspubs.com
Hire Me
We’re hiring a
Ann's AwesomeHousecleaning – 20+ Yrs Exp. Dependable. Trustworthy. Ref Avail. Cll/Txt 651*/776*7834
White Bear Country Inn is NOW HIRING a P/T Front Desk Clerk. Job duties: Checking guests in and out, answering the telephone, and other duties as assigned. Must be fun, friendly, and have great customer service skills. Shifts vary from 7am-3pm and 3pm-11pm. Must be flexible to work both.
Monday – Friday Some weekends 7am – 3pm and 3pm-10pm Pay is negotiable. Contact Adam at 763-222-4838 or adamfele64@ gmail.com
Send resume to ar@presspubs.com
Send resumes to Jacqlyn at JSchoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call
651-272-3783
Kind Hearts Assited Living, LLC in WBL is hiring a Personal Caregiver. Mon-Fri, some wknds, 7a-3p and 3p-10p, Contact Adam: 763*/222*4838 or adamfele64@gmail.com
White Bear County Inn NOW HIRING Laundry Attendant for Sat. & Sun. Send resume to JSchoen@ WhiteBear CountryInn.com or call 651-272-3783
Personal Caregiver
Press Publications is now hiring an Administrative Assistant to work 2 days/ week, for a total of 10 hours.
7:47 4:33
7:47 4:33
Firewood 4x4x8 Very dry red oak firewood. Pre-split 16” pieces. Ready for stove or fireplace. Craig 651*/214*0718 Must pick up
Miscellaneous White Bear Lake
White Bear Country Inn is NOW HIRING a Weekend Laundry Attendant for Saturdays and Sundays. Start time 10:30am. Send resumes to Jacqlyn at JSchoen@WhiteBearCountryInn.com or call
651-272-3783
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844*/220*9501 today!
SAFE STEP NORTH America s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 833/*966*3882
362
369
Miscellaneous
Want to Buy
DON'T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 866/*852*5506
WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 844/*978*0683
451
Rentals/ Commercial
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on We Buy Vinyl Records CHOOSE EARTHrace, color, religion, Lps, 45s, Stereo Equip LINK FIBER Internet sex, handicap, familial We make house calls for speeds up to 5 by appointment. status, or national oriGigs, no data caps, no White Bear Lake gin, or an intention, to throttling. Prices startRecords make any such prefering at $54.95. Plus, a 4775 Banning Ave,WBL ence, limitation or dis$100 gift card when wblrecords.com crimination.” Familial 651/224-4947 you make the switch. status includes chilLooking for a Job? Call 844/*453*6983 dren under the age of Scan this QR Code to see Employment opportunities in 18 living with parents Eastern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin communities. GET DISH SATELor legal custodians; LITE TV + INTERNET! pregnant women and Free install, free HDpeople securing cusDVR upgrade, 80,000 tody of children under on-demand movies, Scannewspaper this QR Code 18. This plus limited time up to see Employment opportunities in will tonot knowingly ac$600 in gift cards. Call Eastern Minnesota Western Wisconsin communit cept anyand advertising today! 855/*562*4309 for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal Since opportunity basis. To 1989 complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is “When Quality and Service Matter” 1-800-927-9275.
Looking for a Job?
Pet Services
Personal Touch Pet Grooming 763 784-4833 TDD 784-0662 Dial 711 for Relay Assistance
Deb Molin Certified Master Groomer 200 Marian Ct., Circle Pines, MN 55014
Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm 651-407-1250 | classified@presspubs.com
SUNRISE/SUNSET DECEMBER 17 - 24, 2025
7:46 4:32
358
362
Weekly Outlook 7:45 4:32
160
Help Wanted
WE’RE HIRING!
651*/426*8660
Hauling/Moving
150
Help Wanted
7:48 4:34
7:48 4:34
7:49 4:35
Weather Tidbits Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com After a series of nuisance snowfalls, we finally received a snowfall of significant amount on Tuesday, December 9. The snow lingered into the morning hours of the 10th. While it made for a slow morning commute, main roads were quickly cleared and the evening drive was acceptable. I totaled 6.2” from this snow event. What followed was not so much fun. An Arctic blast, our 2nd of the season, brought single digit highs over the weekend and our coldest temperature of the season, -13º on Frank Watson Sunday morning. Temperatures rose overnight Sunday and we were back into the 20’s on Monday. With 8” of snow cover, a White Christmas looks promising. The My 2026 weather Winter Solstice is at 9:03am Sunday, December 21. Note: My 2026 weather calendar calendar is available now. is available. Check WeathermanWatson.com or call 651-206-5364 for more info. Also, available at Lake Country Booksellers in Downtown White Bear Lake.
WEEKLY AVERAGES HIGH LOW SUN PCP
23° 8° 39% 0.24”
Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.
Sponsored by
James Sanchez White Bear Lake Realty
4790 Banning Avenue • Downtown White Bear Lake 651-653-7326 • www.wblrealty.com
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.
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
APPLIANCE REPAIR
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
Meet Your Specialist
Honest Work for Honest Pay
651-270-7360 Reasonable Rates -all jokes and laughs are free
Servicing All Major Appliance Brands Major Credit Cards Accepted
Steve Vermeersch, owner and mechanic of Vermeersch Automotive in Centerville, has lived in the local area since 1977. He and his wife, Carisa, have 2 children. Steve graduated from St. Paul College and is ASE Certified in multiple categories. Carisa works in White Bear Lake. Steve is a member of the White Bear Lake Lions & WBLHS Alumni Association and they are members of First Presbyterian Church.
AUTO SERVICE
IKING AUTO REPAIR
Foreign & Domestic • Complete Automotive Repair • Friendly Service • Low Rates
651.226.4235
vikingautomotiverepair.com
White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights
DECKS • Auto Repair • Oil Lube & Filter Service
20 years of experience serving White Bear Lake & Centerville - Friendly, Honest Service
651.226.4235
Monday–Friday 8am–6pm 7137 20th Avenue North • Centerville www.facebook.com/vermauto
2
Se
rv 7 ing 19 ce the North M o Area sin etr
Complete Auto Repair Center
construction walls, ceilings, new construction walls, ceilings, Interior:new commercial, residential, Let us build your deck now new construction trim,walls, cabinets, floors floors trim, cabinets, ceilings, We build decks all winter long! trim, cabinets, Exterior: cedarfloors siding/trim repairs, repairs, Exterior: cedar siding/trim CALL US FOR SPECIALS! stucco painting and painting Exterior: cedarstains siding/trim repairs, stains and painting stains and painting CALL OR EMAIL! GET 2024 CALL OR EMAIL! GET 2024 2025
PRICING FORGET SPRING/SUMMER CALL OR EMAIL! 2024 PRICING FOR SPRING/SUMMER EXTERIORS PRICING FOR2025 SPRING/SUMMER 2026 2025 EXTERIORS 2025 EXTERIORS Family owned 1967 Familysince owned since 1967 northlandlandscape.com Family owned since651-238-1850 1967 651-238-1850 Bonded Insured | Lic #BC638094 brian@cedarspec-bestpainting.com brian@cedarspec-bestpainting.com 651-238-1850 brian@cedarspec-bestpainting.com
651-746-4582
DRYWALL
651-483-4259
LORENZ DRYWALL
38 Woodlynn Ave Little Canada www.rsautorepair.com
BATHROOMS
Bathrooms by • Design • Bath Repair • Remodeling • Tub Surrounds • Free Estimates
HUGE SAVINGS! Lic. #20060261
651-257-4706
www.youngcastlebathrooms.com
CABINETRY
Schneider Custom Woodworks
CUSTOM WOODWORKS
Commercial & Residential
Custom CABINETRY! • Cabinet resurfacing and refacing • Custom exterior work • Deck refacing
• CHANGING CEILINGS OVER TO KNOCK DOWNS • TAPING • SPRAYING • ADDITIONS • BASEMENTS • NEW HOMES • GARAGES
No job too small! Kerry (Cell)
651-653-9021 651-271-4221
Wolf Bros. Drywall Co. Total Drywall Services
CALL LEE
SmallJobs Jobs Welcome Welcome Small
• Repair• Repair Circuits •Circuits Recepts Added • Remodels • Panels Replaced • Recepts Added • Ceiling Fans • Ceiling Fans • Master Electrician
WINTER SPECIALS
651-746-4582
L D MARSHALL PAINTING
Scott or Linda • 651-426-9135 (office)
• Interior painting only
Stain & Varnish • Painting of Home Furnishings (furniture, cabinets, mirrors, light fixtures, frames, etc.)
schneidercustomwoodwork.com
HANDYMAN
PLUMBING
CARPENTRY
FREE Estimates! Specializing in • Handyman • Remodeling • Drywall Repair• Bathrooms • Kitchens
Small Job Specialist
Licensed Bonded Insured
651-213-6638
45 years experience Basement Finish/Remodel Exterior & Interior Painting Doors/Windows/Siding Ceiling Textures/Roofs Kitchen Remodels/Counter Tops Decks/Landscaping Odd Jobs Bathrooms
651.653.9920 / 612.816.8544 CLEANING
Ron Skibsted, R.S. Construction
651-271-5000
Leaky Roof? Roofing • Siding
Leaky Roof?
Windows • Doors • Gutters • Decks Painting •STOP Repairs HERE” “THE LEAKS
And MORE! 763-742-7500 “THE LEAKS STOP HERE” bettersol.com
bettersol.com 763-742-7500 bettersol.com 763-742-7500
Full Service Contractor over 40 years MN Lic. BC639211 Fullexperience Service Contractor
over 40 years experience MN Lic. BC639211
Household Waste Construction Debris Appliances Furniture
HEATING & COOLING
TIME TO REMODEL? Check out our Models for design ideas.
License # BC627690
• Kitchens • Remodels • Bathrooms • Basements
FALL PROMO • Fireplace Installation • Fireplace Tune Ups Mention this ad to receive promotion
MN Lic #BC632066
BATHROOMS ~ KITCHENS BASEMENTS ~ TILES
pl
Twin Cities Premier Home Improvement Company
ResidentIal CommercIal
umb
in g
. inc
651-238-6751 NorconHomes.com Locally Owned Since 1994 Insured / Lic #BC105943
(651) 426-6000 www.whitebear plumbing.com
ROOFING
Lic #686889
“Your Local Exterior Specialists” Residential - Hardie Plank
Furnace & A/C Installations and Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured 651.426.4233 cphvac.net
(651) 775-8602
651-888-4138
ALL REMODELING
ite bear wh
CameronTree & Snow Removal
TREE SERVICE
*1 yr financing option available* SHERCO CONSTRUCTION
**********************
Tom Thill 651-433-4866 Lic. #005402
Snow Removal
Kitchen / Bathroom Basement / Deck
651-653-0190
License #BC002674
WE DO EVERYTHING!
Quality Home Building and Remodeling
cartercustomconstruction.com
• Drain Cleaning • Hot Water Heating • Hot Water Heaters & Disposal • Well Pump Service • New Construction • Remodeling
SNOW REMOVAL
• Rooftop & Vent clearing • Driveway & Sidewalks • Small parking areas
**********************
PAINTING
bettersol.com 763-742-7500
Lic/Ins • Free Estimates • Senior/Veteran discount
Bonded Insured • Lic #BC638094
Free Estimates • Established 1987
651-346-8185 EMERGENCY SERVICE 651-383-5123
and BC639211 driveways over 40 years experience MN Lic.
APPLEWOOD BUILDERS
www.northlandlandscape.com
FloydEMERGENCY DeHate, Master Electrician SERVICE
Free Estimates & Callbacks within 24 hours
Snow Removal
Lic. #BC-516217
applewoodremodelers.com
Custom Decks/Footing Repair Screen Rooms/Additions Garages/Roofing/Siding Aluminum/Glass/Cable Railings All Repairs Call Us for
MN Lic#BC639211 763-742-7500
bettersol.com Ice Dams & Roof Tops
Room Additions • Kitchens A+ Basements • Decks All Remodeling For more info visit KOlsonconstruct.com Full Service Contractor We also do sidewalks
MNLic#BC003215
Forest Lake
ARROW ELECTRIC
612-868-6837
612.670.7004
(651) 428-0229
ELECTRIC
REMOVAL “THE LEAKS STOP HERE”
We Build from Scratch
LANDSCAPING
New Const & Basement Finishes Residential/Commercial Family Owned & Operated 40 yrs • Since 1979 Insured
Leaky Roof? ROOFING + SNOW
REMODELING
INTERIOR PAINTING
BestBest Painting & & Painting Best Painting & Cedar Specialists Cedar Specialists Cedar Specialists Interior: commercial, residential, Interior: commercial, residential, Be ready to enjoy your deck this spring!
All makes/models - Foreign & Domestic
Free Loaner Vehicles - Towing
You will find Steve weekly under Auto Repair
**********************************
GO VIKES! 651-407-3465
2022
of the Press
**********************************
2501 E. County Rd F White Bear Lake
Steve has 20 years experience in the auto repair industry. Whether your vehicle needs an oil change or is in need of major engine repairs, Vermeersch Automotive is qualified to handle it all. He offers personal service, affordable rates and the understanding he will go the extra mile for you.
S E R V I C E
Roofing s Siding s Windows Gutters s Fascia & Soffit
651-407-1987 MN Lic.# BC223025
GENE’S TREE SERVICE & STUMP GRINDING Licensed/Insured • Free Estimates
Call Today! 763-785-1629
FREE ESTIMATES
Specializing in Emerald Ash Borer & Oak Wilt Diseased Tree Removal Tree Removal Brush Hauling Tree Trimming Stump Grinding Land Clearing Storm Damage
763-753-7888
Licensed & Insured
D I R E C T O R Y
21
22 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
VFW’s request for more slips moves forward BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
History of variances
WHITE BEAR LAKE — The City Council is expected to approve a resolution next month that will allow the VFW to add 14 boat slips to its dock. VFW Post 1782 is requesting an amendment to its conditional use permit (CUP) and a variance for parking requirements to add 14 boat slips to its commercial marina. Community Development Director Jason Lindahl said that over the years, the VFW has been granted several variances relating to parking requirements to allow for the VFW’s expansion. If granted the requested variance of four spaces, the VFW’s site parking deficiency would increase from 15 stalls to 19 stalls. “The site is nearing its development limitations,” Lindahl explained. Both city staff and the Planning Commission recommended the council deny the CUP and variance request since the parking requirements were not being satisfied. VFW Senior Vice Commander Justin Frogner told the council that the VFW is a nonprofit organization that donated over $49,000 to veteran organizations as well as other local organizations like the food shelf and school district. “We assist veterans and their families during hardship, which is largely paid for by slip fees,” he said. “Our slips are in high demand … The White Bear Lake Conservation District has approved the request. Nineteen independent environmental studies were conducted without issue and the DNR’s approval is pending. Extending the dock to 300 feet brings the VFW in line with the conservation district’s allowable ordinance and the rest of the marina.” Frogner noted that VFW officials believed there were some miscalculations by city staff for required parking stalls due to a high estimate for outdoor seating and transient slips not being accounted for. “Transient slips are meant for boaters to come from the lake to eat and do not necessitate parking accommodations. Some slip owners are local and further mitigate parking restraints, choosing to bike or walk instead of drive,” Frogner said. “In the area, others have been given the chance to make it work; we ask that we get the same chance because we are more than just a restaurant and bar. We are an established organization with a
• 1986: Variance granted reducing required parking from 84 to 33 stalls to turn gas station into drive-in/thru restaurant • 1994: Variance granted reducing required parking by five stalls for a 195-square-foot addition on VFW building (increased capacity from 146 to 166) • 1995: Variance granted to reduce required parking by six stalls for an expansion of drivein/thru restaurant • 1998: Variance granted to reduce required parking by 10 stalls for an expansion of outdoor seating at VFW building • 1999: Conditional use permit granted to expand marina from 22 to 28 boat slips — no variance granted, two parking stalls required to be installed
long history of giving back, and want to continue to grow with the community.” Council Member Bill Walsh said he was “sympathetic” to the request and asked if the four stalls north of the VFW on the opposite side of the road/boat launch, near Veterans Memorial Park, could be counted as parking for the VFW. Lindahl explained that city staff did not account for those spaces since they were adjacent to a public park, but per the city’s code, stalls on the opposite side of the street can be counted if the site does not have the potential for future development. Walsh said although he was happy city staff presented the recommendation they did, he wanted the council consider “overruling” that decision. “I’m comfortable with this very small addition,” he said. Council Member Andrea West wanted more details about the transient spots. Lindahl explained that topic was not brought up to staff until the night of the council discussion, but city code does not differentiate between a leased slip or transient slip. “If there is redevelopment in that area, there could be even less parking in that area then there is now,” West said. “I appreciate everything the VFW does. I support veterans. I support everything you do in the community and appreciate it. I’m concerned about a lot of creep … At what point do we stop and what precedent
are we setting for people who are asking for variances?” Council Member Kevin Edberg noted that the VFW had the opportunity to purchase stalls in the Boatworks Commons lot years ago and chose not to. “Part of me that says enough is enough. We have bent and used our flexibility, not unreasonably, but expanding that imposes burdens on the other businesses and other uses in the neighborhood and deprives citizens and other users’ easy access to other amenities,” he said. “That’s what I’m trying to balance in my mind. I don’t know that this is the right place to stretch one more time.” Mayor Dan Louismet said he frequents that area in the summer and has almost always been able to find a spot in the VFW lot and has also had luck in the Boatworks lot. “There are some practical difficulties, and I’m not concerned that 14 more boat slips and potentially the need for four more parking spots, based on our code, is going to upset what is already a busy area,” he said. He added that as long as the city attorney agreed, he was comfortable with granting the variance. City Attorney Dave Anderson explained that the council has the prerogative to interpret the city code language; and if he thinks it’s appropriate to count those four additional spots, a variance wouldn’t be necessary and the CUP amendment could be granted. Edberg said he was not ready to take action on the item and suggested tabling it so city staff could do more research on what sort of impacts a decision like this one could have on other situations down the road. “Where does the rest of the community fall if we start changing our interpretation about abutting spaces, and what are the unintended consequences of making a favorable interpretation in this situation only to end up mucking up situations in other places?” Walsh noted he would be supportive of tabling the decision if it allowed Edberg to get the information; he needed to hopefully make a yes vote in the future. Ultimately, the council tabled the variance, which will likely not be necessary, and directed city staff to bring forward a resolution at its Jan. 13 meeting that approves the CUP and clarifies the council’s interpretation of counting those four extra spaces. Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS Birchwood skating rink opens
The skating rink at TigheSchmitz Park in Birchwood is open, and the pleasure rink will be open soon. Warming house hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Residents are asked to abide by posted rules.
Tamarack no longer offers skiing, snowshoe rentals Due to unpredictable snow in recent years, Tamarack Nature Center will not offer ski or snowshoe rentals for the 2025–2026 season. Tamarack’s ski trails will still be groomed once at least 6 inches of natural snow accumulates and visitors
are welcome to use their own equipment when conditions allow. Ski passes can be purchased on its website. Winter hiking and other seasonal activities remain available. Trail updates are posted online at www.ramseycountymn.gov/ residents/parks-recreation/ parks-trails/winter-recreation. For questions, please contact the office at 651-266-0360.
What’s your standout story from 2025?
What story do you remember from this year? 846844
Let us know by emailing whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
23
Council approves limited escrow fees to streamline home inspections BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — Property owners who are constructing a new home may be required to enter into an escrow agreement with the city now that the council has agreed to add escrow fees to its fee schedule for 2026. At the first reading of the ordinance, city staff described it as a “new tool” to ensure that projects are completed in a timely manner. Escrows can range from $1,000 up to $10,000. The City Council expressed some concerns with the burden the fees could place on homeowners and requested a bit more information and clarification on situations when escrow might come into play. (See “White Bear Lake City Council not sold on proposed escrow fees,” Dec. 3, 2025.) City Manager Lindy Crawford explained that the language had been revised from the first reading to clarify that escrow fees will only be used for new construction when the property owner needs a certificate of occupancy. According to the fee schedule, “When a temporary certificate of occupancy is either requested by a permittee or required by the building official for new construction of one- or two-unit residential dwellings, the city may require an escrow agreement and deposit for the specific items.” “Escrow ensures that property owners and contractors follow through in a timely manner and don’t create a code enforcement issue,” Crawford said. Community Development Director Jason Lindahl added, “We tried
landscaping such as planting trees to make it more clear, concise and or installing a rain garden. “I get the targeted. This is only addressing new construction, and only in cases where sidewalk, curb cut, but final grading? I don’t know why we are doing that. they get to the end of the project and Some of that is a little squishy for there are some outstanding items.” me.” City staff looked back at the numCrawford explained that in the ber of new homes and tear-down/ example of a rain garden, it might reconstruct projects over the last be necessary to correct stormwater five years. Of the 32 homes that were issues so that the property doesn’t constructed from 2020-2025, only flood the neighboring properties. six passed on the first inspection to “None of this is for fun. We hope we secure a certificate of occupancy. never have to use it. But we would be Lindahl noted that 26 of those homes in communication with the applicant required more than one inspection, if we had and a to obtain total of the es16 homes crow and required use it.” more than Mayor three inDan Louspections. ismet said “It is although staff’s this tool hope that Jason Lindahl might be in the Community Development Director helpful instances for other that this commuescrow is nities who are not fully developed, he asked for, that helps reduce the numquestioned whether it was right for bers on this list, which then turns into less instances where staff are Whtie Bear Lake. following up,” Lindahl said. “I get this as a tool for undeveloped Lindahl noted that escrow would communities where a builder comes not be required when a permit is isin and specs 50 homes and that buildsued for the work, but would come up, er just isn’t getting around to putting at the building official’s discretion, the driveways in. If that was the case when the applicant is requesting a in White Bear, I would say absolutely certificate of occupancy. … We don’t have that in White Bear. Crawford added, “This will be very It is a guy or a family who is building situational. We are going to work a house,” Louismet said. “Before we with our community members, and go and pass a tool for onesies, twosies we are going to be very reasonable, as and not a huge problem, I don’t know we always are.” if I’m convinced that this is enough Council Member Heidi Hughes said of a problem that it requires broad she was not “real excited” about the sweeping solutions.” city stepping in to finish up final Crawford noted that 30 homes may
y a D One y! Onl
“This is only addressing new construction, and only in cases where they get to the end of the project and there are some outstanding items.”
not sound like a lot, but one thing that is hard to quantify is the amount of time that went into getting that final certificate of occupancy issued. For example, one of those homes required seven inspections. “That’s at least seven hours of the building official’s time plus all of the permit technician’s time to get that scheduled. No home should take that much time for a final inspection,” Crawford said. Lindahl noted it was also difficult to quantify all the conversations staff had with neighbors who lived next to construction zones for extended periods of time. “This is really a tool to help us ensure that projects continue in a timely manner, and to the extent possible, we minimize the impact of an ongoing construction project next to other people who are living in an established residential neighborhood,” he said. Council Member Andrea West said she was supportive of the escrow concept and thought it was reasonable. “I don’t want to increase an administrative or financial burden on anyone who wants to move into our city. That is not ideal, and I’m sure not our goal,” she said. “I do take a look at houses that required a multitude of times to pass their initial inspection … We are a built-out city, so we don’t have a lot of new construction, so that’s a pretty significant number of homes; only six passed first time.” The council ultimately chose to adopt the fee schedule as recommended. Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
CUSTOMER ER
up to
% 70%
OFF
January 9, 2026 | 9am - 4pm The Citizen, Quad Community Press, Shoreview Press, White Bear Press / Vadnais Heights Press
Call on or before January 9th! Patti Carlson (651) 407-1214
White Bear Press/Vadnais Heights Press:
Vicki Dobson (651) 407-1211
White Bear Press/Vadnais Heights Press & Quad Community Press/The Citizen:
Ethan Staruck (651) 407-1223 Shoreview Press/North Oaks News:
Emily Furlong (651) 407-1216
4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110 | (651) 407-1200 | presspubs.com
846857
White Bear Press/Vadnais Heights Press:
24 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
Even more in store!
15 Days of Savings!
5
Customer Favorite
Essential Everyday
2
Sweet Cream Butter
99
1 lb Quarters Salted or Unsalted
SAVE $2
.10
Philadelphia
Cream Cheese
8 oz Brick Original or 1/3 Less Fat
Essential Everyday
Heavy Whipping Cream
Double Smoked Bone-In Ham Whole or Half
Yukon Gold or Prime Size Russet Potatoes
2 2 49
SAVE $1.3 0
3 16 oz
Our Own Premium Quality
29
5 lb Bag
99
Essential Everyday
Half & Half 32 oz Original or Fat Free
2
99
3
79 lb
Hormel Cure 81
99 with
Black Label Bacon 12-16 oz Selected Varieties
without card 6.99
While Supplies Last!
Spiral Sliced Bone-In Half Ham
5 lb Box
5
99 with
with Glaze
2
99
Mandarin Oranges
lb
5 lb Box
USDA Choice
USDA Choice
Premium Boneless Rib Eye Roast
Premium Bone-In Rib Eye Roast
15
without card 6.99
16
99
99 lb
lb
HAND CUT, TRIMMED & TIED IN-STORE
BONE-IN RIB EYE STEAKS
16.99 lb BONELESS RIB EYE STEAKS
Wednesday, December 10th through Wednesday, December 24th, 2025 WHILE SUPPLIES CLOSED LAST ON CHRISTMAS DAY, 12/25/2025
festivalfoods.net
17.99 lb W1
Andover, 2218 Bunker Lake Blvd NW - (763) 755-1415 Bloomington, 401 W 98th St - (952) 358-7480 Brooklyn Park, 8535 Edinburgh Centre Dr - (763) 425-6640 Hugo, 14775 Victor Hugo Blvd N - (651) 762-3618 Lexington, 9101 S Hwy Dr - (763) 786-2278 White Bear Lake, 2671 Co Rd E East - (651) 653-8888 Valid through Wednesday, December 24th, 2025 | festivalfoods.net
FESTIVALFOODS.NET 847328
WHILE SUPPLIES LAST
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
25
MAHTOMEDI & WILLERNIE It’s number-crunching time in the city Did you know?
As the snow crunches, so do the numbers. The Mahtomedi City Council recently held its annual truth-in-taxation public hearing to present the final 2026 city budget for public consideration. This annual tradition is required by state law. As previewed in September, the proposed 2026 general fund budget is $8,977,287. This figure represents an 8.1% increase from 2025, or an additional $672,762. With one unanimous vote, council approved the proposed tax levy for 2026 and cancellation of debt levy for taxes payable in 2026. The driver of the overall budget increase is the increase in the city’s expenses; an increase in tax revenues was needed to balance the budget, said Finance Director Scott Schaefer. For 2026, the notable expenditure increases are due to a 21.4% ($164,031) rise in staffing costs for the fire department, including a full-time assistant fire chief. Ambulance costs increased by about 43.6% ($424,621), and planning costs increased by 53.3% (or $40,000), primarily to prepare the 2050 Comprehensive Plan. At 41.4% of the city’s costs, public safety takes the biggest piece of the budget pie. Debt service for 2026 will increase by about 0.74%. The city is expected to be staffed by six full-time
MONDAY - All Day Happy Hour TUESDAY - Bingo @ 6:30PM WEDNESDAY Game night, prizes and giveaways! @ 6PM
PULL TABS AVAILABLE
In addition to the general fund, the city sets budgets for its enterprise funds. The proposed budgets for those funds for 2026 are: Water fund - $2.2 million (30.7% increase) Sewer fund - $1.7 million (1.1% increase) Stormwater - $1.1 million (41.0% increase) Equipment, building replacement - $425,000 Parks - $425,000
administrative positions; eight full-time fire/ ambulance positions; nine full-time public works positions; and four summer seasonal public works positions. The total proposed property tax levy for 2026 is $6.6 million, an increase of 10.5% from the 2025 levy. The city receives 74.2% of its revenue from taxes. As the city’s share of the property tax bill is set to increase for 2026, so will utility rates. Water and sewer fees will increase by 5%, and stormwater fees will increase by 10%. With the 2026 budget set at $8.9 million, the tax impact on the $461,900 median-value homestead will be $1,674, or $140 per month. The city’s median-value home had a market value of $456,900 for 2025 and increased in market value by 1.1%. This results in a tax increase of $159, or
THURSDAY - $10 mix and match buckets FRIDAY - Meat Raffle @ 5PM SATURDAY - VINGO Music Video Bingo @ 1PM SUNDAY - Live Music @ 3PM
10.5% for the year. Just before council opened the public hearing, two citizens appeared at the lectern to address council — not on the new budget and tax increase — but as to why their home values increased in the first place. Each year, taxpayers feel a two-part sting financially. First, their taxing authorities submit their budgets, which at present have resulted in an increased levy. Everyone in the city receives this news at the end of the year. In the spring comes the second part of the financial hit, as taxpayers receive the market valuation of their homes, which has also increased lately for most homeowners. The increased tax levy — combined with the increased home values on which the tax amount is based — has resulted in concern from the property-owning sector. The two citizens who stepped to the lectern and everyone else in the city will have the opportunity to address that half of the taxation issue in the spring during the Board of Equalization meeting, scheduled in early April. At that time, the city assessor will explain why home values are increasing or decreasing. Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com.
MONDAY - DJ Trivia @ 7PM WEDNESDAY Meat Raffle @ 5:30PM Poker @ 7PM THURSDAY - Live Music @ 6-9PM
PULL TABS AVAILABLE
FRIDAY - Meat Raffle @ 5:30PM Live Music @ 5:30-8:30PM Karaoke @ 9PM-12AM SATURDAY - Meat Raffle @ 1PM BINGO @ 1:30PM LIVE Music @ 7-10PM 846595
BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Have confidence in your financial strategy At the Wellspring Advisor Group of Thrivent, we see money as a tool, not a goal. Our approach is based on helping you prepare for the future, protect the people you love, and live a life rich in meaning and gratitude. Reach out to learn more about how we can help you create a strong financial future for your family. Contact us for assistance with: • Tax and estate strategies • Insurance to help safeguard your loved ones • Charitable giving strategies and solutions • College planning
Wellspring Advisor Group 321 Stillwater Rd., Upper Unit, P.O. Box 813 Willernie, MN 55090 651-243-7139 wellspringadvisorgroup@thrivent.com thrivent.com/wellspring
Not all team members may be appropriately licensed to provide all products and services or licensed to do business in all states. Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional. Thrivent provides advice and guidance through its Financial Planning Framework that generally includes a review and analysis of a client’s financial situation. A client may choose to further their planning engagement with Thrivent through its Dedicated Planning Services (an investment advisory service) that results in written recommendations for a fee. Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC, and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Licensed agent/producer of Thrivent. Registered representative of Thrivent Investment Management Inc. Advisory services available through investment adviser representatives only. Thrivent.com/disclosures. 4242978.5
845817
• Comprehensive dedicated planning based on your goals and values • Investment management strategies (Roth IRAs, 401(k) rollovers, IRAs) • Retirement income planning
26 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
Holiday Gift Cards 651-429-7609
BUY $100 GET $20 FREE* HOLIDAY GIFT CARD SALE!
Anna’s
1350 Highway 96 E White Bear Lake
PURCHASE GIFT CARDS ONLINE AT ACQUAWBL.COM OR CALL 651-407-7317
Stop in for last minute stocking stuffers!
DELIVERY & TAKEOUT AVAILABLE
BUY $100 IN GIFT CARDS & GET $20 FREE! 2025
Monday thru Friday 10 am - 8 pm Saturday 10 am - 6 pm, Sunday 12 am - 5 pm 651.482.1284 1073 Highway 96 W Shoreview, MN 55126
WINN
Paintless Dent Repair • Brakes • Tires • Tune-ups • Painting • Detailing
Gift Cards Available!
651.633.177 FlahertysBowl.com Country Road E & Snelling
847249
4736 Washington Square, White Bear Lake washingtonsquareonline.net
free $10 gift card when you buy a $50 gift card
9005 S Hwy Dr, Circle Pines, MN
847262
845806
846833 792500 846836 792334
846404
when you buy a $50 gift card No limit!
845826
GET A $10 GIFT CARD
Starting: 11-27-25 Ends: 12-24-2025
A GREAT STOCKING STUFFER!
Every $50 gift card Earns $10 bonus cash Every $250 gift card Earns $60 bonus cash
125 County Rd F • Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 651-483-4055 • www.fairwaycollisioncenter.com
Support local businesses!
4729 HIGHWAY 61 N WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN | (651) 209-6790
846834
Purchase a $100 gift certificate & receive a $20 certificate for yourself.
Total Collision and Automotive Repair
125 E County Rd F • Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 651-483-4055 • www.fairwaycollisioncenter.com
845803
*OFFER GOOD UNTIL 12/24/25. Some restrictions apply.
ER
e Press
White VadnaiBear Lake s Height s
846832
846696
Best of th
Just call. We do it all. Total Collision & Automotive Repair
2670 Co Rd E East White Bear Lake, MN 55110
carboneswhitebearlake.com
SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
DECEMBER 17, 2025
www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
27
Bears win with 5-goal period against Elks White Bear Lake is 4-8 after losing to Forest Lake 6-1 and beating Elk River 6-0 last week. Olive Holvig scored against Forest Lake. The Bears pumped in five first-period goals against the Elks — by Isabelle Meiers (power play goal), Holvig, Madelyn Lee, Elaina Hosfield and Lee again. Lee made it a hat trick
in the third period. Macie Marston had 25 saves in the shutout and Holvig made two assists. The Bears’ top two scorers are Lee with nine goals and five assists and Hosfield with seven goals and five assists. Bruce Strand
ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS BOYS BASKETBALL
PAUL DOWNEY | CONTRIBUTED
Isabelle Meiers fired a top-shelf goal against Elk River to open the scoring in a 6-0 win.
BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS BOYS HOCKEY
Roseville Area (4-2) outlasted White Bear Lake 5-4 on Dec. 9, powered by Garrett Hines with a hat trick. Notching goals for the Bears (3-2-1) were Liam Maloy (two, even strength and power play), Rian Marquardt (power play) and Magnus Benz. Hunter Doroff made three assists. The Bears led 2-0, fell behind 3-2, and pulled even at 3-3 and 4-4. Wyatt Hauer got Roseville’s decisive goal at 16:50 of the second period.
BOYS BASKETBALL
White Bear Lake (2-2) picked up its first two wins last week, over Mounds View 72-61 and Woodbury 75-66. Colin Piper, 6-foot-8 senior, tallied 23 and 30 points, respectively. Will McQuay added 15 points, Jonathan Woods 10, Preston Crider 10, Emmett Anderson eight and Nick Cardenas six against Mounds View, which got 25 from Andrew Aitkin. Cardenas had 12 points, Crider eight, and Zach Turner and McQuay seven each against Woodbury.
GYMNASTICS
Led by Grace Mueller, White Bear Lake defeated Cretin-Derham Hall 131.25 to 126.7 on Wednesday in St. Paul. Mueller won all-around (34.35), floor (8.95) and vault (9.475) and took second on beam (8.225). Harlie Peloquin won bars (8.25). Placing 4-5-6 all-around were Peloquin (32.124), Maddie Erickson (31.95) and Taylynne McMahon (31.725). Erickson was third on vault (8.55) and Runningen third on beam (8.225). Placing fourth were Peloquin on vault (8.325) and floor (8.175) and McMahon on bars (8.05).
GIRLS BASKETBALL
White Bear Lake generated a 15-point overtime, including four three-pointers, to defeat Mounds View 69-61 last Wednesday, then lost to Woodbury 56-40 on Friday. The Bears (2-4) made 13 three-pointers in the victory and went 12-for-13 on free shots. Chloe Thiessen tallied 18 points (8-for-8 at the line), Sophie Menier 13, Maddy Thompson 10, Amelia Post eight and Marin Peterson eight. The Mustangs (4-4), led by Maddie Schneider with 20 points and Joyce Helmer 19, rallied from a late nine-point deficit but missed a chance to win at the buzzer. Woodbury was led by Harper Vossen with 15 points and Alexa Fajey 10.
For the Bears, Thiessen netted 17 points and Menier 11.
SWIMMING
White Bear Lake out-stroked Park 97-87 on Thursday in Cottage Grove. Benedict Hoefer won the 200 (1:55.62) and 500 freestyles (5:33.13) and anchored a 200 free relay win with Ridley Dittler, Sam Tarau and Finnian McVeigh (1:41.84). Also winning were Dylan Allshouse, backstroke (1:01.39) and McVeigh, breaststroke (1:07.61). Placing second were Ethan Arrigoni (200 and 500), Tarau (medley), Lucas Hilgers (50), McVeigh (butterfly) and Lincoln Medin (100).
NORDIC SKI
With a snow storm last week, the Nordic teams eagerly got the season started with two meets. “I am happy with the improvement that I am seeing from not only the top skiers but also many of the younger skiers,” Coach Doug Cran said. In tandem races Thursday at Lake Elmo Park, each skier going 1500 meters in the classical style, Lydia Moore and Brodie McVeigh placed sixth out of 24 girls teams and Irene Bakke/Grace Reeves seventh, four seconds behind. Joe Rogers/James Bowen were 11th out of 31 boys teams with Ben Rogers/Ben Miller 14th. On Tuesday in heavy blowing snow at Les Bolstad Golf Course, the girls were fifth of seven teams and the boys seventh. Several new members got their first taste of Nordic, the coach noted.
BOYS WRESTLING
White Bear Lake placed ninth of 11 teams at the Paul Bunyan tournament in Brainerd on Saturday. Indiana Kane was runner-up at 127 pounds. Jake Simpkins was fifth at 295. Tristan Moen was sixth at 133. The Bears (2-2) lost two dual meets at home Thursday, to Mounds View 54-17 and Irondale/Spring Lake Park 34-31.
GIRLS WRESTLING
White Bear Lake placed fifth of 13 teams at the Paul Bunyan tournament in Brainerd on Saturday. Jinet Demanou was champion at 190 pounds. Dominique Demanou was fourth at 148, Tessa Moen fourth at 136, Andrea Smith fifth at 130 and Talliah Swims sixth at 170. Bruce Strand
Mahtomedi is 4-0 after defeating Delano 74-39 Thursday and Sartell 64-48 Saturday, both on the road. Against Delano (1-3), Noah Carlson netted 19 points, Willie Roelofs 14 and Mark Graff 12. Against Sartell (0-2), Graff led with 27 points, six rebounds, five assists and five steals. Andrew Russell had 12 points, six rebounds and two blocks, and Willie Roelofs 11 points, six rebounds and three assists. Sartell lost its other game 98-88 to No. 5 ranked Alexandria and the Zephyrs held them to 40 points less. “Fun week. Great team bonding on long bus rides,” Coach Keith Newman noted. “We are working hard at defending in practice.”
GIRLS BASKETBALL
After starting the season 0-5, Mahtomedi nabbed its first win, 66-46, at Simley, led by Grace Prose with 33 points, on Friday evening. The junior guard was 6-for-16 on three-pointers and made six steals. Delaney Dumermuth added 11 points. The Zephyrs lost 89-45 Tuesday to Benilde-St. Margaret’s, the top-ranked team aiming for a fourth consecutive state title. The Red Knights (5-0) were led by Pressley Watkins with 23 points and Zaida Jenkins with 17. Prose sank 22 points, including six 3-pointers.
BOYS HOCKEY
Mahtomedi clipped Two Rivers 4-1 on Tuesday, then lost to No. 5 ranked Warroad 4-2 on Friday, both at St. Croix Rec Center. Scoring for the Zephyrs (2-3-1) in the victory were Brock Gutterman, Vinny Redpath (power play), Brayden Fuerst and Blake Bentz. Jackson Chesak made 13 saves. Warroad (6-2) had goals by Gavin Anderson, Ryan Shaigabau, Ayven Hontvet
and Broden Hontvet. Scoring for Mahtomedi (2-3-1) were Henry Sampair (power play) and Easton DeZelar.
WRESTLING
Mahtomedi had one boy and one girl champion at the Andover Invitational on Saturday. Aidan Carlson was 127-pound champ after a 17-1 win in the finals over Kaleb Long of Shakopee. Elizabeth Carlson was girls champ at 106. Runners-up were Alex Boex at 172, Kyra Kamrath at 124 and Maya Hahn at 130. Placing third were Aliya Purvis at 124 and Amelia Englund at 155.
GYMNASTICS
Mahtomedi (2-0) defeated South St. Paul at home 132.925 to 99.00 on Thursday, led by Lucy Otto, who won all-around (33.90), floor (9.125) and beam (8.55). Addie Eitel won vault (8.75) with Lily Bush second (8.45) and Otto third (8.275). Cassia Hartman won bars (8.85) with Bush second (7.825) and Otto third (7.675). On beam, Margo Brunner was second (8.275) and Eitel (8.2) third. On floor, Bush (8.95) and Adele Schroeder (8.30) were 2-3 behind Otto, as the Zephyrs had their best event with 34.575.
GIRLS HOCKEY
Roseville/Mahtomedi (6-6) beat Rogers 4-3 in overtime Thursday and lost to unbeaten Woodbury 1-0 on Saturday. Against Rogers, Adele Stoehr got the overtime gamewinner 28 seconds after face-off on a power play. Stoehr had two goals and Megan Packer and Olivia Hartman one each against Rogers with Lola Dombowy making 31 saves. Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Benedict Hoefer White Bear Lake Swimming December 17, 2025 Benedict Hoefer, White Bear Lake senior swimmer in his fifth varsity season, posted three first places to lead a dual meet win over Park on Thursday, winning the 200 and 500 freestyles while anchoring the 200 free relay. On Saturday, in Blaine’s 11team invitational, the 6-foot-1, 185-pound aquanaut won the 200 in 1:53.81 and took sixth in the 500 with 5:25.35. “His best event is the 200 freestyle, but he swims a variety of events,” coach Jake Mueller said. Hoefer, oldest of nine siblings, has been all-conference since ninth grade and holds Bear records in the 200 (1:49.58) and 500 (5:07.50). His other PR’s are 22.9 in the 50 and 50.31 in the 100.
4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254 info@4seasonsairwbl.com
DECEMBER 17, 2025 www.presspubs.com
Find latest about events, programs, services, and news online! Find thethe latest about ourour events, programs, services, and news online!
Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Volleyball Open Gym, Master Gardener Smart Salting Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos,
Virtual Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, Programs, Tai Chi Chuan, Road salt permanently damages wildlife, cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob online! withsnowplows snowplows andgive givedrivers drivers plentyof of with and plenty to Snowshoe, and the Speaker Curbside Christmas Tree Recycling Curbside Christmas Tree Recycling with snowplows and give drivers plenty of rusts cars, and kills plants. One teaspoon of hauvLearn Curbside Christmas Tree Recycling Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, roomto to dotheir their jobsafely. safely.available at Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, room do job Series. More Information Free curbside recycling oflive live Christmas curbside recycling of Christmas Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, room to do their job safely. saltFree pollutes five gallons of water. Stay safe Free curbside recycling of live Christmas adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! trees willbe beavailable available January and 11. The cityvadnaisheights.com/register. Look trees will 444and 11. The and protect water this January winter by following trees will be available January and 11. The - servicios Inresidential residential areas,they theymay mayback back up ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, more collaboration programs with --servicios In areas, up ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, trees should be picked upwithin within 48hours, hours, but for trees should be picked up 48 but In residential areas, they may back up ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios these tips: trees should be picked up within 48 hours, but ynoticias noticias en línea! in order to turn around. When roads are yyweather. noticias en línea! AFSA including: Self-Defense, Beginner in order to turn around. When roads are could be delayed due to Place your be delayed due to weather. Place your en línea! in order to turn around. When roads are 1.could Shovel, sweep or scrape early and often to could be delayed due to weather. Place your coveredwith withsnow snow orice, ice,watch watch forthe the Printmaking-Pet Portraits, and Plant covered or for treeat at thecurb curband andyour yourhauler haulerwill willpick pickititit tree the covered with snow or ice, watch for the reduce compaction. tree at the curb and your hauler will pick Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! flashing white, yellow, and bluelights lights of Propagation. Classes will beblue held at AFSA, Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! flashing white, yellow, and of up at no charge. Remove all decorations and at no charge. Remove all decorations and Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! flashing white, yellow, and blue lights of 2.up Swapping salt for a FREE bag of reusable up at no charge. Remove all decorations and snowplows. 100 Vadnais Boulevard, and are for a snowplows. docov not place the tree in aplastic plastic bag. The tree Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, do not place the tree in aatshaj bag. The tree Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, snowplows. grit. Visit getgrittymn.org for locations and Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, do not place the tree in plastic bag. The tree Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, Nrhiav ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloovcov khokhoos tshiabkas, tshajcov plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! -nyob Never crowd snowplow.Pass Passsnowplows snowplows cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm hauv online! variety of ages.aaasnowplow. -- nyob Never crowd (or sections of the tree) cannot be longer than cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! sections of the tree) cannot be longer than cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm hauv online! cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! Never crowd snowplow. Pass snowplows a (or tutorial. (or sections of the tree) cannot be longer than cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! only whenyou youcan cansee seethe theentire entirevehicle. vehicle. only when seven (7) feet. Trees will be picked up by a cityvadnaisheights.com Facebook.com/CityVH seven (7) feet. Trees will be picked up by a Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, cityvadnaisheights.com Facebook.com/CityVH only when you can see the entire vehicle. Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, 3. Salt sparingly. A 12-oz mug is enough for seven (7) feet. Trees will be picked up by a Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, cityvadnaisheights.com Facebook.com/CityVH Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, Staywell wellbehind behind plows toavoid avoidany anyflying flying adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! Stay plows to separate truck.There There will be a$7 $7 charge foronlayn adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena ahaan! truck. will be aaonlayn charge for adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena ahaan! Stay well behind plows to avoid any flying adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! a separate 20-foot driveway. Snowshoes and Ice Rinks separate truck. There will be $7 charge for adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! sanding materials, snow, and ice thatcould could sanding materials, snow, and ice that trees placed outside for pickup at times other trees placed outside for pickup at times other sanding materials, snow, and ice that could ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios Snowshoes are available for rent at trees placed outside for pickup at times other ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios strike your vehicle. strike your vehicle. than those listed above. than those listed above. y noticias en línea! strike your vehicle. y noticias en línea! City Hall. Ice rinks at Westfield and than those listedyabove. ynoticias noticias en línea! y noticias en línea! en línea! Winter Activities ynoticias en línea! Bealert alertfor for dangerous snowclouds clouds orto -- - Be dangerous snow or Be alert for dangerous snow clouds or Community Parks are opening up. Go Registration is open for winter recreation “whiteout”conditions. conditions.Snowplows Snowplows can on “whiteout” can Sharing the Road with Snowplows “whiteout” conditions. Snowplows can Sharing the Road with Snowplows cityvadnaisheights.com/ice for updates Sharing the Road with Snowplows activities! Youth activities include Learn create clouds ofblowing blowingsnow snowthat thatmay may create clouds Staysafe safeand and slow down!During During thewinter winter when create clouds of blowing snow that may Stay slow down! the they’ll beof open. Stay safe and slow down! During the winter to Snowshoe, Little Naturalists, and concealthe theroad roadand andhide hidedriving drivinghazards hazards conceal season, please remember to share the road conceal the road and hide driving hazards season, please remember to share the road season, please remember to share the road Basketball. Adult programs include the latest about our events, programs, services, and online! Find FindFind the the latest latest about about our our events, events, programs, programs, services, services, and and news newsnews online! online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv kho tshiab plaws peb cov koom txoos, Nrhiav Nrhiav cov cov ntaub ntaub ntawv ntawv hloov hloovhloov kho kho tshiab tshiab tshaj tshajtshaj plaws plaws txog txogtxog peb peb cov cov koom koom txoos, txoos, Nrhiavcov covkhoos ntaubkas, ntawv kho cuam, tshiab thiab tshaj plaws txog peb covhauv koomonline! txoos, covhloov kev cuam, pab covxwm xov xwm cov cov khoos khoos kas, kas, cov cov kev kev pab pab cuam, thiab thiab cov cov xov xov xwm nyob nyobnyob hauv hauv online! online! cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, Kuhel Kuhel wixi wixi ugu ugu danbeeyey danbeeyey ee ee kusaabsan kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, barnaamijyadeena, Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! adeegyadeena adeegyadeena iyo iyo wararkeena wararkeena onlayn onlayn ahaan! ahaan! adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios ¡Encuentra ¡Encuentra las las últimas últimas novedades novedades sobre sobre nuestros nuestros eventos, eventos, programas, programas, servicios servicios ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios y noticias en línea! yy noticias noticias en en línea! línea! y noticias en línea!
cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights Facebook.com/CityVH twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights cityvadnaisheights.com Facebook.com/CityVH twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights Facebook.com/CityVH
cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com
cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com
Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH
Food Shelves
The Vadnais Heights Lions Club WinterRec RecPrograms Programs Registration Open Winter –––Registration Open Foundation runs a monthly food shelf. Winter Rec Programs Registration Open Oncue cuewith withthe thesnow, snow, our winterrec rec On our winter Distributions are the third Saturday On cue with the snow, our winter rec programs areopen open forregistration. registration. Youth programs are for Youth of every month at the Vadnais Heights programs are open for registration. Youth basketball,floor floor hockey, indoor soccer, and basketball, hockey, indoor soccer, and Commons, 655 East County Road F. The basketball, floor hockey, indoor soccer, and adultTai TaiChi Chi Chaun and yogaprograms programs are adult and yoga Food Shelf isChaun open for extended hours are adult Tai Chi Chaun and yoga programs are available. Stay busy with usthis thiswinter: winter: available. Stay busy with us in December from 9-11 a.m. Distribution available. Stay busy with us this winter: www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register of food is allowed to families considered www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register Newto toour ourrecreation recreation catalog this New catalog this lower income; qualifying individuals New to our recreation catalog this winter -Learn Learn toSnowshoe Snowshoe classes! Learn winter --Learn to classes! Learn can register day-of. For donations make winter to Snowshoe classes! Learn thebasics basics andgain gain confidence through the and confidence checks payable to the Vadnaisthrough Heights the basics and gain confidence through aguided guided hike. Snowshoes provided! aa hike. Snowshoes provided! Lions Club Foundation and drop off or mail guided hike. Snowshoes provided! Ages 7+are arewelcome welcome (14and and under must Ages 7+ under must c/o Vadnais Heights(14 City Hall. Monetary Ages 7+ are welcome (14 and under must beaccompanied accompanied byan anshelves adult).www. www. be adult). donations allowby food to take be accompanied by an adult). www. cityvadnaisheights.com/register cityvadnaisheights.com/register advantage of special pricing and fill gaps cityvadnaisheights.com/register from donations. Wish-list items include pantry staples, peanut butter, baby items, beverages, after-school type, personal care and cleaning items.
28
The White Bear Area Food Shelf is also available for those in need. Curb-side and community Skating Rinks market instructions are Skating Rinks Skating Rinks available online. Forthe those donating, Weatherpermitting, permitting, theice icerinks rinksat at use Weather Weather permitting, the ice rinks at the donation match and the wish-list of Community Park andWestfield Westfield Parkshould should Community Park and Park Community Park and Westfield Park should items. For more information and how to be open.Visit Visit ourwebsite websiteor orcall call City Hall for be open. our City Hall for be open. Visit our website or call City Hall for donate/volunteer, oravailable. access resources go to updates asthey theybecome become available. updates as updates as they become available. whitebearfoodshelf.org.
WinterShindig Shindig Winter Winter Shindig
Embracewinter winter withVadnais VadnaisHeights Heights Holidays Fire Safety Embrace with Embrace winter with Vadnais Heights Parks Recreation! Enjoyhot hotchocolate, chocolate, The & National FireEnjoy Prevention Association Parks Parks &&Recreation! Recreation! Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, iceincrease skating,snowshoeing snowshoeing and all notes the in home fires during cookies, ice skating, and all cookies, ice skating, snowshoeing and all things winter! Joinus usfor for the WinterShindig Shindig Christmas. Residents are encouraged to things winter! Join the Winter things winter! Join us for the Winter Shindig on Saturday, January 14at at Community Park, review electrical safety and not overload on Saturday, January 14 Community Park, on Saturday, January 14 at Community Park, 651 County Road from to4and pm. FREE outlets, notRoad to crowd stoves heating 651 EEECounty F, 222to FREE 651 County Road F,F,from from to 44pm. pm. FREE -all allages ageswelcome. welcome. Nopre-registration pre-registration elements, not leave cooking unattended, --all No is ages welcome. No pre-registration isis required. and make sure fire alarms and smoke required. required.
detectors are in good working order. Never leave open flames unattended.
Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, news online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, andand news online! Find the latest about our events, programs, services, and news online! Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! Nrhiav cov ntaub hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, cov khoos kas, cov kev pab cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, cov khoos kas, cov kev pab thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! Nrhiav cov ntaub ntawv hloov kho tshiab tshaj plaws txog peb cov koom txoos, cov khoos kas, cov kev pabcuam, cuam, thiab cov xov xwm nyob hauv online! Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! Kuhel wixi ugu danbeeyey ee kusaabsan dhacdooyinkeena, barnaamijyadeena, adeegyadeena iyo wararkeena onlayn ahaan! ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios y noticias en línea! ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios ynoticias noticias en línea! ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios yynoticias en línea! ¡Encuentra las últimas novedades sobre nuestros eventos, programas, servicios en línea! Visit www.cityvadnaisheights.com or call 651.204.6000. | City Hall Hours: Mon through Thurs 7 a.m. to Monday 4:30 p.m.,through Fri 7 to 11 a.m.. . Visit www.cityvadnaisheights.com or call 651.204.6000. | City Hall Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday twitter.com/Vadnais_Heights Facebook.com/CityVH twitter.com/Vadnais_Heights Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH Visit Friday twitter.com/Vadnais_Heights Visitwww.cityvadnaisheights.com www.cityvadnaisheights.comor orcall call651.204.6000. 651.204.6000.||City CityHall HallHours: Hours:8:00 8:00a.m. a.m.to to4:30 4:30p.m., p.m., Monday through Friday . twitter.com/Vadnais_Heights Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH Facebook.com/CityVH
761568 846578 761568 761568
cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com cityvadnaisheights.com
VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights twi9er.com/Vadnais_Heights
SCHOOL BRIEFS
Gymnastics home meet The high school girls’ gymnastics team hosted their first home dual meet in their new space this week. The facility, located at the renovated Sunrise Park, is a Building Our Future bond project and serves as a true “home gym” for our team – as the equipment no longer needs to be assembled and taken down after each practice.
PHOTOS BY WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS | CONTRIBUTED
Clay pinch pots Holiday Lunch
CHECK US OUT! If you’d like to experience our schools in person, mark your calendar for open house tours for incoming kindergarten families: FALL ‘26 KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT IS NOW OPEN!
WHY BE A BEAR? • Student-centered instruction. We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates — that all can achieve.
• Expanded academic opportunities. Our students explore their interests, excel and design their futures.
• Empowered, supported learning. Students are agents and owners of their learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.
• Inspiring, nurturing educators. Our educators facilitate learning and challenge students — fostering curiosity and confidence.
• Transformative learning.
Design Your Future. Create Your Success.
Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.
Int’l Baccalaureate (IB) & Elementary Spanish Dual Immersion programs available!
FOLLOW WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS
/ isd624
White Bear Lake Area Schools
• Tuesday, Jan. 6 from 5:30-7 p.m. at Birch Lake Elementary, Oneka Elementary, Otter Lake Elementary and Willow Lane Elementary • Wednesday, Jan. 7 from 4-6 p.m. at Matoska International • Thursday, Jan. 8 from 5:30-7 p.m. at Lakeaires Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, North Star Elementary and Vadnais Heights Elementary Find complete information at
www.isd624.org/ kindergarten 847892
GO DISCOVER.
The Senior Center hosted their annual Holiday Lunch. The event brought in a large crowd eager to enjoy the delicious meal and lively conversation with fellow members and friends!
Central Middle School students are having fun getting creative in the new art room, located in the renovated portion of the building that came online this year. Students made a vase or planter pinch pots. They experimented with textures and design before selecting a glaze color and adding their creation to the kiln.