Highway 96 corridor study wraps up with final open house
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
A two-year study is about to wrap up that will help guide both shortand long-term improvements for the Highway 96 corridor.
The study, a partnership between Washington and Ramsey counties and MnDOT, kicked off in the summer of 2024 after Washington County took over ownership of a portion of the roadway (east of Highway 244 in Dellwood) from the state in 2023.
“The goal of the study was to better understand issues and opportunities and help plan for future improvements,” said Washington County Project Manager Madeline Dahlheimer. “In ongoing coordination with MnDOT and Ramsey County, it was determined to expand our study to include the portion of roadway still under MnDOT jurisdiction (west of Highway 244 all the way to Highway 61). … That’s going to help all of the agencies plan for needed improvements.”
Study findings
The study dived into the approximately 10-mile segment between Highway 61 in White Bear Lake to Highway 95 in Stillwater. Dahlheimer says the study focused on safety and multimodal improvements.
“Often when we come through and do a study, there is a concern that we are expanding the roadway, but we are not looking at Highway
IF YOU GO
When: 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, May 4
Where: Crosswinds Community Church, 9125 Newgate Ave. N, Stillwater
Details: Washington County will host its third and final open house for the Highway 96 corridor study. Attendees are encouraged to review the study recommendations online ahead of time and attend the in-person event to talk to staff, ask questions and discuss next steps. Study recommendations can be found online at https://tinyurl.com/bd22apa6. Contact: Maddie Dahlheimer, 651-430-4338
BY LORETTA HARDING
Needed major road work is coming to Mahtomedi soon. So is the unavoidable inconvenience.
Residents in or near Mahtomedi have approximately one year to get their errands done while they can still leave town. Or get back in. Within the next three years, two of three major portals in town will be closed. The Mahtomedi City Council at its April 7 meeting negotiated with Washington County engineers to make sure they both weren’t shut down at the same time.
The city of Mahtomedi asked for a delay to the start of Highway 120/ Century Avenue turnback reconstruction until 2028 so that motorists could still get to I-694 (the west portal) while the turnback reconstruction on Highway 244/ Mahtomedi Avenue (the north portal through Dellwood) gets underway. Drivers will still be able to come and go using Hilton Trail and Highway 36 (east portal) during the entire road reconstruction period, but would probably encounter an unacceptably large traffic volume if that were the only way to come and go from town for two years or more.
During the Highway 120 /Century Avenue North reconstruction project, the road will be excavated, infrastructure will be installed, and complete resurfacing will take place between County Road E/ Wildwood Road to I-694. The changes are expected to improve traffic flow and intersection control, improve pedestrian and bike
CALENDAR BRIEFS
Minnesota VFW Auxiliary District 4 hosts dog walk for Believet
Support veterans and change lives by walking your dog. At 1 p.m. Sunday, May 3, community members are invited to attend a 2-mile dog walk from Matoska Park (2345 Fifth St.) to the VFW Post (4496 Lake Ave.) and back. Registration/donations will be collected, and proceeds will be given to Believet, a nonprofit organization based out of Northfield, Minnesota, that trains service dogs for veterans living with disabilities to restore independence, confidence and hope.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
VFW, Legion host joint day of service
In preparation for Memorial Day, the VFW Post 1782 and American Legion Post 168 will join the Auxiliaries and the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) to host a joint day of service to clean veterans’ headstones on Saturday, May 9.
At 9 a.m. one team will start at Union Cemetery, and another team will start at St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery. Later, teams will head to St. St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Cemetery. A special cleaning solution will be provided, but volunteers are encouraged to bring work gloves, knee pads, eye protection
World-renowned organist featured at 2-day festival
St. Andrew's Lutheran Church will welcome Southern Methodist University professor and world-touring organ recitalist Stefan Engels, who will highlight the music of 20th-century German composer Sigfrid Karg-Elert in a two-day celebration of his vast works.
A workshop and presentation at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 25 begins this mini-festival. The concert in the sanctuary at 2:30 p.m. Sunday,
and tools like weed whackers, leaf blowers and hand shovels.
If you know of a veteran’s grave that has not received an American flag on Memorial Day, contact the VFW at infovfwpost1782@gmail.com.
Chamber reschedules AdoptA-Highway cleanup
The White Bear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has rescheduled its Adopt-A-Highway cleanup due to weather. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 13, volunteers are invited to help the chamber clean up its 2-mile stretch of Highway 61.
“It’s the weekend before Manitou
April 26, will be followed by an artist's reception with light refreshments.
As an advocate, champion and specialist in the music of Karg-Elert, Engels’ program will span the vast range of musical personality expressed by the renowned lateRomantic German composer and organist.
Of note is that Karg-Elert played the rededicatory concert on a Casavant Opus 1177 organ in 1932 after its relocation to a new chapel on the Phillips Academy campus in Andover, Massachusetts. This connection is historically notable, as St. Andrew's 1927 Casavant organ, the largest pipe organ in Minnesota, has tonal resources particularly wellsuited to producing the wide range of sonorities and textures found in Karg-Elert's music. St. Andrew's acquired, rebuilt and dedicated the 7,310-pipe organ in the fall of 2001.
The events are co-sponsored by St. Andrew’s and the Twin Cities Chapter of the American Guild of Organists and all are welcome, free of charge. St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church is located at 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi.
All are welcome to attend inclusive concert
Join Light in the Well and White Bear Lake Area High School for an inclusive concert featuring musicians with and without disabilities. The concert will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, at the WBLAHS Performing
Days, so we hope everyone will help us clean up just before the big festival,” said Chamber Executive Director Kari Moore. “Our annual Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup is a meaningful opportunity to connect with other local professionals while working side-by-side to keep our shared spaces clean, welcoming and beautiful.”
Attendees should plan to meet at the chamber office for coffee and a quick breakfast before the cleanup. After the cleanup, the chamber will treat volunteers to lunch. To register, visit https://www.whitebearchamber. com/events/eventscalendar. The event is weather dependent.
Arts Center. The concert is free, but registration is appreciated at lightinthewell.com.
Light in the Well creates inclusive musical experiences where individuals of all abilities are seen, heard and celebrated.
Join weekly walking group for women
Women Who Walk is a once-a-week opportunity for women of all ages to enjoy outdoor exercise in a social setting. The group meets Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. at the Mahtomedi District Education Center for a trek along the Lake Links Trail and through local neighborhoods. Routes many vary, and include paved and unpaved trails, and multiple speeds are available to suit various interests and levels of endurance. Registration is free but required at mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com/ course/2177/2026-winter-spring—2/women-whowalk-free; or learn more by contacting sammy. wallace@isd832.net.
Lake Links, Historical Society seek input on points of interest along trail
The Lake Links Association and White Bear Lake Area Historical Society are collaborating to develop stations along the Lake Links Trail that include QR-code signage that provides information on history and natural history highlights. Anyone who has ideas for specific stops to feature can email them to lakelinksmn@ gmail.com.
CONTRIBUTED
Stefan Engels will visit St. Andrews Lutheran Church April 25-26.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
RITE OF SPRING
When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 25
Where: Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Mahtomedi
Details: Free family event with hands-on workshops, information stations, trucks to explore and other kids activities; on-site recycling 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and prescription drop-off 10 a.m.-1 p.m.. Mahtomedi Passages Transition Program will collect and give away Zephyr gear. Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com
'ONCE UPON A MATTRESS'
When: April 24-May 17
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake
Details: Lakeshore Players' presents a twist on the classic fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea.” Ticket information online.
Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
ST. CROIX BALLET: 'CINDERELLA'
When: 7 p.m. Friday, April 24; 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 26
Where: Stillwater Area High School 5701 Stillwater Blvd.
Details: Performance by the dancers of St. Croix
Ballet, to the music of Prokofiev, with beautiful set and costumes.
Contact: stcroixballet.com
GANGSTER BUS TOURS
When: 10 and 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 25
Where: White Bear Armory, 2224th St.
Details: Explore the hideouts and haunts of the 1930s era gangsters who laid low in the cottages around White Bear and Bald Eagle Lakes. Sights include a Mahtomedi speakeasy and the location of a notorious dance club.
Contact: whitebearhistory.org
TRASH TO TREASURE DAY
When: All day Saturday, April 25
Where: White Bear Lake and White Bear Township Details: All city and Township residents can put unwanted items marked “free” at the end of their driveways for treasure seekers to pick up. Contact: whitebearlake.org/ee/page/trash-treasureday
SEED LIBRARY 10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT
When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 25
Where: White Bear Lake Seed library, 2150 2nd St. Details: Celebrate with activities for all ages, including planting, games, information about harvesting, saving and growing seeds, treats and seeds. Children welcome with parents/guardian. Contact: wblseedlibrary.blogspot.com
SHOREVIEW NORTHERN LIGHTS VARIETY BAND SPRING CONCERT
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, April 25
Where: Bethel University, Benson Great Hall, Arden Hills
Details: “Sounds of Stage and Screen”-themed program features medleys from Broadway productions, John Williams’music from Star Wars, selections from the Disney repertoire, and themes from James Bond films. Also special musical guests Justin Sales and Sydney Elliot. Tickets online, at Shoreview City Hall, or the Bethel box office. Contact: snlvb.com
LAKES IN HOT WATER: A HISTORY OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN LAKES
When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, April 27
Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St.
Details: Jay Austin, professor with the Large Lakes Observatory and the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota Duluth, presents his research on the physics of large lakes. Program in person or online.
Contact: http://bit.ly/NEMCA0427
BOOK DISCUSSION
When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28
Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St.
Details: Community members are invited to a discussion of "Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization" by Bill McKibben, a Vermont-based author and speaker who was one of the first to sound the alarm about the climate crisis. Hosted by the WBLUMC Green Team.
Contact: wblumc.org
UNDERSTANDING IMMIGRATION: OPERATION METRO SURGE - WHERE ARE WE NOW?
When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 30
Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi
Details: Community event to reflect on Operation Metro Surge, how it affected our community, and learn and share about what's needed now, presented by Many Faces of the White Bear Lake Area.
Contact: manyfaceswblarea.org
WHITE BEAR LAKE CLEANUP DAY
When: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 2
Where: 4200 Hoffman Road (former public works site), White Bear Lake
Details: Get rid of unwanted items for a small fee. Household hazardous waste is not accepted. Proof of residency required. See list of accepted items and fees online.
Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov/cleanup
OPINION
Species of frogs
Did you know there are 12 species of frogs and toads in Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is seeking volunteers to help with the frog calling survey? For more than 40 years, the DNR has been working to understand the status distribution and long-term population trends.
Between Minnesota and western Wisconsin there are countless volunteer opportunities available for families and individuals, which include becoming a volunteer trainer, helping with ATV license training, or the Minnesota Pollution Control citizen stream monitoring program. How fun would it be to have an assignment visiting and monitoring a stream or monitoring the water clarity in lakes, using the secchi disk technique? If you find yourself wanting something to do in nature that makes an impact, a volunteer position with one of our agencies is a great way to fill a morning, afternoon, evening or weekend. These positions can be memorable, let alone impactful in youth development. There are even activities you can do with your kids or grandkids.
Although some think state and federal agencies exist for only enforcement, they really do work to help manage and better our resources through permitting, hunting regulations, pollution and public land use. Some of the memorable stories that stand out are when our reporters have shadowed individuals with the DNR, national parks service, local police or sheriff’s departments and fire departments. It can be a real eye-opener to do a ride along with a local agency as they do a safety check of an overloaded power boat on the river, or in a row boat as they net hundreds of walleyes in a stocking pond to be released in our lakes. I guess the old adage rings true that you “need to walk a mile someone’s shoes” to get a real understanding.
A former city manager shared how he took on a volunteer role when his kids were young to monitor water clarity. I remember wishing I had taken the kids with me when I covered a controlled burn at Standing Cedars Land Trust in western Wisconsin. Another memorable moment was covering the mussels count on the St Croix River. We were in a canoe and photographed the divers as they would pull up mollusks from the river bed. I wonder how the mussel counts are now, especially after the major change in how the river water levels were controlled. The St. Croix dam went to an electronically-controlled system for outflow around 15 years ago. After those controls were installed, the river has had less fluctuations. Did this factor into the mussel counts? I remember crossing the Highway 243 bridge and talking with my young kids on the way to and from preschool about how the dam was going to restrict outlet flow. I encouraged them to watch the sand bars and islands, telling them they are all sandy now, but soon they will be overgrown with grass and trees. Today they still remember that correlation of the dams outflow.
This summer look for opportunities to get involved. There are many ways you can make a difference with our youth or touch nature in our communities. Volunteering can help our state and federal agencies. Let’s stay involved and be in the know with the outdoors we love and the planet we call home.
Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
Ramsey County passes Building Stronger Together
Residents consistently tell me that their property taxes are too high and continue to grow.
That concern is real—and it demands a serious response. Recently, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners unanimously passed a bold new economic development plan, Building Stronger Together. This plan is centered on two key strategies: targeted investments to support a dynamic downtown St. Paul and the sale of county-owned land ripe for redevelopment. The way we build our community shapes our financial future. Around half of Ramsey County’s general fund is currently supported by property taxes while only about half of our land is taxable (the rest is made up of tax-exempt property, public infrastructure, and natural features like lakes). In order to build property tax capacity, reduce property taxes, and shift burdens away from residents; we must be intentional.
Building Stronger Together is rooted in the county’s values of well-being, prosperity, opportunity and accountability. It advances and operationalizes key resident-centered recommendations and strategies from the Ramsey County Economic Inclusion &
Limited to 350 words. Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification. Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area. Letter writers are limited to six letters per
and
Competitiveness Plan, the All Abilities 2050 Transportation Plan, and the Ramsey County Transit Improvement Plan. This plan includes $250 million in targeted investments to create a more vibrant, active downtown and $70 million to unlock more than 630 acres of county-owned land to drive transformative growth. Due to Ramsey County’s strong fiscal management (including maintaining a triple A bond rating for over 25 years), we can rely on existing resources and strategic bonding – not additional increases to the property tax levy - to make high-impact investments now while advancing legislative requests.
Downtown investments: Data shows that dense, mixed-use development in the urban core generates significantly more tax value per acre than lower-density suburban areas.
Downtown St. Paul produces approximately 8.3-times more taxable value than the share of Ramsey County land it occupies. We believe that Ramsey County investments in projects like the Park at RiversEdge, office-to-residential conversions, improved public spaces and transit connections and supporting business growth - in partnership with public, private and community stakeholders - will catalyze downtown economic revitalization.
Sale of county-owned land: Building Stronger Together transforms underutilized land into powerful engines for economic prosperity across Ramsey County. Through strategic site readiness and strong partner-
least four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.
ships with cities and developers, we are not just planning for growth—we are actively converting these opportunities into lasting economic impact.
This plan strengthens our commitment to the development of Rice Creek Commons by investing Ramsey County dollars to construct Rice Creek Boulevard and site preparation.
These infrastructure investments are a critical step in delivering housing across income levels, creating well-paying jobs and building a sustainable, energy-forward community.
How we grow and invest directly impacts affordability for residents and the county’s ability to invest in roads, parks, libraries and essential services like public safety, public health and social services. Building Stronger Together recognizes that property tax burdens are too high for our residents and focuses on broadening the tax base to more fairly and sustainably reduce that property tax burden. For more information on this initiative, you can access: RamseyCountyMN.gov/BuildingStrongerTogether.
Stay up to date on District 1 news by signing up for my newsletter and following us on Facebook. If you have questions, concerns, or would like to set up a meeting, please contact me at Tara.JebensSingh@ramseycounty.us or 651-266-8362.
Let's keep the conversation going!
Tara Jebens-Singh is the District 1 Ramsey County Commissioner.
Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. All letters are subject to editing. Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110. Press Publications publishes 99% of the letters to the editor that meet the guidelines.
Carter
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES
New leadership needed
Once again, the White Bear Lake School District has made the local news and, once again, it isn’t flattering. This time, the story is how the school board has changed the rules to silence those not in the majority asking for discussion of financial policy. Why?
White Bear voted in a massive school bond in 2019. After months of voting “no” on a bond audit, and after pressure from the public and one board member, Dan Skaar, preparation of this audit was finally approved, and financial discrepancies are being discovered.
Now, the current superintendent is preparing to ask for another bond while the audit on the last one isn’t even completed yet. Since the last bond, property taxes have increased by an average of 35% while the White Bear School District has added 66 administrative positions and enrollment has declined. For reference, in that same period, Mahtomedi has added zero administrative positions and is seen as a “destination district” for
open enrollment while White Bear is not. Now, in an attempt to save money, White Bear is proposing to combine its fourth and fifth grades next year. How is this beneficial for any of the students? How about slashing some of these administrative positions that were added in the last bond?
When this next bond comes up for a vote by the residents, don’t fall for the “Vote Yes” for the students. It’s not. It’s another increase in your property taxes while students keep leaving the district. This district needs new leadership, financial accountability and open dialogue with parent input instead of a rubber stamp for the wishes of a failed superintendent. If you want an example to follow, look east about a mile.
Rick Voeller White Bear Lake
More to the story
Kudos to the White Bear Press for its April 8 article covering the White Bear
Township annual meeting on March 10, where residents accepted the board’s proposed preliminary 2027 tax levy. The preliminary levy of $8,245,000 represents an increase of 12.8% over the previous year’s preliminary levy, which is four times the rate of inflation (3.4% for the last 12 months).
There is another important element to the story. Township residents, at December’s annual budget meeting, did not accept the board’s final tax 2026 levy proposal of an 8.3% increase, and instead adopted a citizen resolution of a more conservative 7% increase. When the board’s preliminary 2027 levy proposal is compared to the actual 2026 levy the township is operating under, their proposed increase comes in at 24%.
Board staff are very clear that these numbers are preliminary and represent the maximum increase that could be adopted. Given recent history, these numbers will be reduced as the board gets better data and is able to narrow the increases. But since the real base target is the adopted 2026 levy, they have a lot
Trail construction begins
Construction on the first phase of the Bruce Vento Regional Trail extension has begun.
The first phase of the project will extend the trail 2.7 miles from its current end point at Buerkle Road to the intersection of Highway 61 and Hoffman Road.
The trail will be located on the east side of Highway 61, cross under Highway 61 (near Cedar Avenue) and then follow Hoffman Road. The southbound right turn lane from Highway 61 onto Hoffman Road will be removed as a part of the project to accommodate pedestrian crossings and to improve safety. Connections to the existing
pedestrian trails and sidewalks will also be constructed as a part of the project.
Last week, contractors mobilized on the site and began tree and vegetation removal, and grading is expected to begin this week. Substantial completion is expected in November. Design of Phase 2 of the project from Whitaker Street to County Road J has already begun and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. For more information, visit www.ramseycountymn. gov/residents/parks-recreation/planningconstruction-restoration/bruce-ventoregional-trail-improvement-overview.
of Minnesota Professor Arash Davari. The event will address the historical roots and evolving dynamics of conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States. The discussion will also examine what the future Iranian political and cultural scene will bring. There will be
of work to do. We hope they collaborate with their interested residents to develop a budget that can be presented by the board and accepted by its residents.
Wipe slate clean
In follow-up to Jennifer Thayer's letter from last week's edition titled “School board needs Robert Rules,” a $538,218 double payment, one of 15 similar "infractions" — total dollars unknown to me — may account for a portion of my personal 2023-2024 50% property tax increase.
Who is watching this irrational group flounder through their day and our tax dollars at will? Time to wipe the slate clean, find people who can run a calculator and stop spending cash like it's on a board game.
Church to raise money for families affected by Operation Metro Surge
Parkview United Church of Christ will host a fundraiser for local families affected by recent federal agents’ actions from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 25. The event will include a silent auction, more than 20 vendors, food trucks, plant sale and bake sale. Proceeds will assist families with rent payments. Parkview UCC
is
Join local residents for National Day of Prayer event
A National Day of Prayer gathering will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at Community of Grace Lutheran Church, 4000 Linden Street, White Bear Lake. The event is sponsored by a group of concerned citizens from multiple denominations.
ample time for questions.
The program will be held at St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, located at 2175 First Street, White Bear Lake. The event is free to attend, though an RSVP is requested.
Owen Knabb
Matoska Elementary
CHURCH BRIEFS
Greg Hubinger White Bear Township
Dave Brockel White Bear Township
located at 3737 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake.
COPS&COURTS
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Officers responded to a dispute in the 2400 block of Spruce Place April 8.
• Theft of gym services was reported on Orchard Lane April 8. A suspect accesses gym benefits by using someone else's membership.
• Officers responded to a theft in the 900 block of Wildwood Road April 9.
• Theft was reported near the 4100 block of Hoffman Road April 9.
• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 1500 block of Park Street April 10.
• Officers responded to a verbal dispute in the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 10.
• A man was issued a citation for no insurance following an accident near the intersection of County Road E and McKnight Road April 10.
• No injuries or damage was reported after a bicycle hit a school bus in the 3900 block of Bellaire Avenue April 10.
A White Bear Lake man was arrested on two felony drug warrants on Century Avenue April 10.
• An Anoka man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 10.
• A man was issued a citation for failure to yield following a twovehicle accident near the 4600 block of White Bear Avenue April 10. Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 2100 block of Third Street April 10.
• Officers responded to a dog bite in the 4900 block of Lake Avenue April 10.
• Officers advised an owner to leash their dog near the 4800 block of Lake Avenue April 10.
• Two dogs were reported at large near the 4900 block of Lake Avenue April 10.
• A homeowner in the 2200 block of Sierra Drive was advised about barking dogs April 10.
• Officers responded to a noise
complaint in the 1900 block of Webber Street April 11.
• A resident in the 3900 block of Scheuneman Road was advised about a dog complaint April 11.
• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 3800 block of Prairie Road April 11.
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI April 11 following a medical call in the 1700 block of Fourth Street.
• Officers responded to a family domestic incident in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road April 11.
• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault following a report of a domestic disturbance in the 1800 block of Whitaker Street April 12.
• Officers located a vehicle wanted in a State Patrol investigation on Glen Oaks Avenue April 12.
• Officers responded to a disturbance in the 3700 block of Bellaire Avenue April 12.
• A St. Paul man was arrested on an active Department of Corrections felony warrant following a report of a disturbance in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue April 12.
• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue April 13.
• A domestic assault suspect wanted in Woodbury was located and arrested in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway April 13.
• Officers mediated a dispute April 14 in the 2400 block of Jansen Avenue. Officers responded to a report of a missing person in the 3700 block of Van Dyke Street April 14.
• Fraud was reported in the 4800 block of White Bear Parkway April 14.
• Harassment was reported in the 3900 block of Highway 61 April 14. Officers responded to a neighbor dispute in the 4600 block of Bald Eagle Avenue April 14.
• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for a domestic abuse nocontact order violation following a traffic stop in the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 14.
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 received a phone call from an Apple Orchard Court resident on March 26 regarding identity theft, after someone had twice used his information to open and use credit cards in his name.
Grant
• Deputies received a call from a male in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. on March 22 with questions about how he could get his car keys away from his wife. Deputies advised the complainant of the civil nature of his complaint.
• In the Case of the Squirrelly Muskrat, deputies were dispatched out to the 9000 block of 71st Street N. about a small muskrat on the complainant’s deck on March 25. Deputies described the muskrat as very smart, fast and squirrelly. “He was well versed in parkour, very athletic,” they said. “After some blood, sweat and tears, we were able to escort the muskrat off the property.” Deputies thanked Deputy Yetter, two hockey sticks, the hot dog cooking stick and the snow shovel, which were all deployed during the operation.
Mahtomedi
• Residents in the 800 block of Wildwood Road reported a theft March 19 and advised deputies that it might be worthwhile to study video footage from
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township: Vadnais Heights
• A 29-year-old woman reported March 17 that someone broke into her rented storage unit in the 3200 block of Highway 61 and stole kitchen utensils, a blender, a washing machine, TV, clothing, lamps, furniture and a fire chimney worth more than $1,500. The incident is under investigation.
• Deputies issued a theft citation March 17 to a 43-year-old St. Paul woman after she was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for more than $145 worth of merchandise.
• An animal control officer responded March 18 to a report of a dog being attacked by another dog in the 400 block of Vadnais Lake Drive that is owned by the complainant’s neighbor. The incident is under investigation.
• Deputies arrested a 43-year-old St. Paul man March 18 for thirddegree possession of 10 grams or more of a narcotic other than heroin or fentanyl after they conducted a traffic stop on the ramp of County Road E to southbound I-35E. They stopped the vehicle after it crossed over lines on the road.
Deputies responded March 19 to a report of two male Walmart employees in the 800 block of County Road E East fighting in the men’s bathroom. The incident is under investigation.
• Deputies issued a citation for theft March 19 to a 63-year-old St. Paul man after he was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.
• Deputies responded March 20 to a report of a hit-and-run crash in the 1100 block of County Road
the neighbor’s camera.
• Deputies responded to a Wildwood Road address on March 19 about a child stuck inside a locked vehicle. They were able to unlock the vehicle.
• A motorist on Lincolntown Avenue at Long Lake Road was cited for speeding March 19.
• Deputies responded to a driving complaint from Stillwater Road and Hilton Trail N. at 9:23 p.m. March 19 related to a vehicle headed toward Stillwater. They intercepted the vehicle with the help of other officers on Highway 36 and St. Croix Trail N. in Oak Park Heights.
• On March 20, deputies assisted the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) SWAT Tactical Team at the apartment complex at 830 Wildwood Road and apprehended a suspect with a SWAT warrant.
• An unidentified female was arrested at 10:57 a.m. March 20 on Wildwood Road for disorderly conduct and for making terroristic threats, after she cursed and used racial slurs toward deputies in a public area near the grocery store while people were present. While MPD officers were nearby executing a SWAT warrant, she told MPD officers and deputies that she was going to kill them. She later proclaimed that she was still going to kill them and pointed her crutch like a weapon at deputies.
• A group of juveniles playing some early ding-dongditch on Salem Place March 20 were encountered by deputies, who told them to go home and nip this activity in the bud while it was still spring.
• A pair of motorized bike (e-moto) riders were each cited March 20 on Hickory Street for operating the unregistered bikes on a public roadway without a permit.
E East, after a Mazda 6 owned by a 23-year-old St. Paul woman was struck and damaged by a black sports utility vehicle, which then was driven away from the scene before any information was exchanged. The incident is under investigation.
• Deputies arrested a 37-year-old man March 20 in the 400 block of Walker Drive for making threats of violence after he told his mother he would damage her vehicle with a tire iron and threatened her, too.
• Deputies arrested and cited a 35-year-old man and a 35-yearold woman in the 100 block of Woodridge Drive on March 21 for fifth-degree assault, disorderly conduct and domestic assault after they struck one another during an argument, leaving both with injuries.
• A 27-year-old Pine City man reported March 21 that someone damaged the gas tank on his Ford Explorer, which was leaking gasoline all over the street in the 1100 block of County Road D East. The incident is under investigation.
White Bear Township
• Deputies cited a 48-year-old woman from New Brighton March 16 for theft after she was caught by staff at a business in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive attempting to leave the store without paying for $66 worth of merchandise.
• Deputies responded March 18 to a report of suspicious activity in the 1 block of Bald Eagle Lake and located a 34-year-old Hugo man on private property. He was advised that he cannot be on the property and would be cited for trespassing if he returned.
Deputies cited a 43-year-old North Oaks man for theft March 19 after he was caught by employees at a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive attempting to leave the store without paying for approximately $63 worth of merchandise.
• Deputies responded to a disturbance involving people arguing on Wildwood Road at 5:21 a.m. March 21. After speaking with one of the individuals, deputies were told it was verbal only. They advised all parties to separate for the rest of the day.
A resident of a multifamily dwelling on Mahtomedi Avenue on March 21 reported other residents for smoking marijuana in the building. The complainant brought deputies onto the elevator and into the hallways of the building where they could smell the odor of marijuana. Deputies advised the complainant that the marijuana smoking was a civil issue between him and management.
Pine Springs
• Deputies on routine patrol on westbound Highway 36 at I-694 at 11:45 p.m. March 20 observed a female in dark clothing walking along the shoulder. After she told deputies she was trying to get to St. Paul, they gave her a courtesy ride to the nearest bus stop so that she didn’t have to walk such a long way to her destination.
• A Minnesota motorist was issued a verbal warning about keeping his speed down at 12:15 a.m. March 21 on eastbound Highway 36, after deputies on stationary patrol observed the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Radar showed the vehicle speed to be 76 mph in a 60 mph zone. During the traffic stop, the driver told deputies he was the sober cab. The rear passenger was not wearing her seat belt and was verbally warned about that offense after being identified by her Minnesota personal identification.
7 Brew donates $17,500 to Gillette Children’s
7 Brew, the new drive-thru beverage brand located at 935 East County Road E in Vadnais Heights, recently presented a $17,500 check to Gillette Children’s during its ribboncutting ceremony. The funds were raised through Caffeine for a Cause.
“We are thrilled to bring 7 Brew to the Twin Cities with such a successful opening of the new Vadnais Heights stand,” said Tim Chaffin, franchisee of 7 Brew Vadnais Heights.
White Bear Police Department receives Pathways to Policing Grant
The police department has received a nearly $70,000 Pathways to Policing Grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). The program was created to assist law enforcement agencies in recruiting nontraditional candidates by offsetting costs associated with education, wages, benefits and training required to become a licensed peace officer.
Ramsey County releases aged photo of Nathan Edberg
On the heels of the Vadnais Heights’ opening, 7 Brew also has three more stands currently in development including in Maplewood, Minnetonka and Apple Valley. 7 Brew also
“Supporting Gillette Children’s and their amazing work is an important way for us to give back and is part of what makes Vadnais Heights such a special place.”
recently announced plans for six more stands including Andover, Coon Rapids, Plymouth, Oak Park Heights and two in Lakeville. Marketwide expansion plans call for more than 60 stands to open by 2030.
The city was originally awarded $75,000, with a subsequent amendment increasing the total funding. DPS has now issued a second amendment to the grant agreement, which reflects the following changes:
• Reduction of $31,166.34 due to grant funds that expired on June 30, 2025, and were not utilized.
• Extension of the grant term from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
• Updated total grant award of $68,833.66, with a required local match in the same amount.
The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) is once again asking for help to locate Nathan Edberg, of Vadnais Heights, who disappeared on April 14, 1999, at the age of 21 after he went out for a beer at a bar in White Bear Lake. (See “Searching for Nathan Edberg: 25 years later,” White Bear Press, May 8, 2024.)
21.5-hp (16.0-kW)* iTorque™ Power System 42-in. Accel™ Deep Deck, compatible with optional MulchControl™ kit with one-touch technology Twin Touch™ forward and reverse foot pedals 4 year/300 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty
The extension allows the police department to continue supporting a current cadet who is actively completing their training and is expected to finish this spring. The required local match continues to be supported through previously identified funding sources, including Public Safety Local Government Aid (LGA) and the police department operating budget.
X350Lawn Tractor with 42-inch Deck
Have an event? Email it to calendar@presspubs.com
“We’ve looked for him. His family has looked for him. The community has looked for him. None of us have forgotten about him,” the RCSO wrote in a statement. “We know there’s a chance he’s still out there. Or someone at least knows … something.” If anyone from the community has information about Edberg’s whereabouts or recognizes the newly released age-progressed photo, they should contact the RCSO at 651-266-7320.
CONTRIBUTED
7 Brew in Vadnais Heights presents a check to Gillette Children’s at a ribbon cutting.
The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office released this age-processed photo (left) of Nathan Edberg.
NAMES IN THE NEWS
Eric Sanft, a 2008 White Bear Lake High School grad, recently accepted a new position with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). After high school, Sanft attended college at the University of Minnesota and graduate school at the University of Illinois, focusing on fisheries science and management.
At the beginning of this year, Sanft began a new position in the agency as an aquatic plant management (APM) specialist, where he manages the APM permitting program for a 14-county area, including the greater metropolitan area and the counties to the south.
Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher recently announced that Butch Inks, who most recently served as the fire chief for the city of Saint Paul, has joined the sheriff’s office as director of strategic initiatives and projects. As the newest member of the leadership team, Inks will lead strategic initiatives and projects as well as advance partnership development across the county. His initial work will focus on health care and medical protocols in the
Adult Detention Center, emergency management, government relations and law enforcement employee wellness.
From 1994 to 2025, Inks served with the Saint Paul Fire Department. Over the course of his career, he held roles including firefighter, fire equipment operator, rescue squad captain, district chief and chief (2018 to 2025).
In addition to his local government service, Inks served in the United States Air Force Reserve as a Master Sergeant until his honorable discharge in 2012.
“Chief Inks brings an extraordinary record of service, leadership and community partnership to the sheriff’s office. His decades of experience in high‐risk operations, emergency management and organizational leadership will significantly strengthen our ability to serve residents across Ramsey County,” Fletcher said. “We are fortunate to have someone of his caliber join our leadership team, and I look forward to the impact he will make on our strategic initiatives and partnerships.”
White Bear Township resident Paul Chapin has received an Award of Distinction along with four other individuals from the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation. Chapin was honored at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on April 11 in Winter Haven, Florida.
The Award of Distinction was created to recognize many individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the sport. They may include tournament skiers, innovators, industry leaders, officials and others responsible for landmark achievements in the development of water skiing as well as those whose long periods of dedicated and generous service deserve special recognition.
Chapin received the award for his many contributions and accomplishments from over 60 years in the sport. Since 1963 he has competed in more than 50 Nationals in all age divisions, plus Open, with numerous top five placements since 1970 in all three events. In addition, since 2003, Chapin has served the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation as a trustee and past president. For more information, visit www.usa-wwf.org/2026-hall-of-fame.
facilities, and add transit stop infrastructure. Along that route, motorists should expect to see a new traffic signal, turn lane improvements and transit improvements at the intersection of County Road D/ Long Lake Road. At the access to Century College South Campus at the southernmost property line of the college, expect to see a roundabout. At the Middle Campus where the pedestrian bridge is located, look for a new traffic signal, improved at-grade pedestrian crossings and transit
improvements. There will be a new signal at the north campus on Woodland Drive and a roundabout with transit improvements at the intersection of County Road E/Wildwood Road.
Following a presentation from Erin Blaylock, civil engineer for Washington County, council asked for the first phase to be pushed back to 2028. The first year of the project will include improvements at the intersection of Long Lake Road/ County Road D; a Century
College middle access; stormwater ponding measures; and private utility relocation. Also during that first year of work, the south driveway of the strip mall on the southeast corner of Long Lake Road and Century Avenue will be reconfigured for right turns in and out only. A center median on Long Lake Road will prevent left turns either in or out of the strip mall. Any center median along the new Century Avenue corridor will also
prevent left turns in or out of the strip mall from its western driveway.
The second year of the project will involve total reconstruction along the entire length of Century Avenue.
“Washington County is not against moving the Long Lake Road improvements to 2028,” Blaylock said.
“If we wait until 2028 and do the side streets, it will be minimal,” said Mahtomedi City Engineer Nick Guilliams. “We can get Mahtomedi done and hit
hard in 2028 and finish up in 2029.”
The two major road projects scheduled for the next couple of years are the result of turnback efforts on the part of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and Washington County.
MnDOT is turning ownership of Highway 120 over to Washington County, and ownership of Highway 244 to the city of Mahtomedi.
Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@ presspubs.com.
Butch Inks
Eric Sanft
CONTRIBUTED
Chapin is one of only four Minnesotans to have received an Award of Distinction.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
NOTICE OF SALE OF TAX FORFEITED LANDS ON MAY 25, 2026
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners has prepared an Auction List, dated March 13, 2026, on file with the Chief Clerk, of lands forfeited to the state pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Chapter 281, and classified as non-conservation lands pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Chapter 282, and has determined the appraised value of each parcel.
Notice is hereby given that Ramsey County shall sell to the highest bidder, but for not less than the appraised value, as it appears on the Auction List, the parcels of land described on the Auction List, which have forfeited to the State of Minnesota for the non-payment of real estate taxes and which have been classified and appraised as provided by law. This sale will be governed by the terms set out below, as approved by the resolution of the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners, adopted on the 21st day of April 2026.
Ramsey County will be making the following individual properties listed available for auction. The public sale will be held via online auction and conducted by the Minnesota Department of Administration, Fleet & Surplus Division, using their MNBid site. The auction will open for bids on May 25, 2026 and will close on June 24, 2026.
Any parcel for which “no bid” is received at the public auction sale may be sold the next business day beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the Productive Properties Office located at 90 W. Plato Blvd., St. Paul, MN, to anyone offering to pay the appraised value as it appears on the Auction List and each parcel will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis. An opening bid price cannot be changed unless the parcel is re-appraised, republished, and offered at a subsequent auction.
Terms and Conditions of Sale
1.) the sale will be for no less than its appraised value and sold to the highest bidder; 2.) the sale will be for cash only or certified funds, and 3.) If the property is a residential property with four or fewer residential units or a property that is unimproved with a structure, a person purchasing the property must intend to own and occupy the property as a residence or intend to use the property for a noncommercial personal use. Please carefully review all the terms and conditions contained in this document. Some of the terms and conditions in this document will be included in the deed you receive if you are a successful bidder. You are encouraged to have a qualified attorney review this document
ONLINE SALES: All tax forfeited land offered at an online auction is sold to the highest bidder for not less than the Minimum Bid price set forth on the March 13, 2026, Auction List. The Minimum Bid price equals the total of the Appraised Value.
AUCTION REGISTRATION: All bidders must register by providing a Driver's License or other acceptable photo ID and registering through the State of Minnesota’s MNBid site.
SALES OVER THE COUNTER: Any parcels for which no bid is received during the Online sale can be rebid for purchase beginning the next business day after the online auction closed, at 9:00 a.m. at the office of the Tax-Forfeit Land Section for not less than the Minimum Bid price set forth on the March 13, 2026, Auction List The Minimum Bid cannot be changed unless the parcel is re-appraised, or special assessments are changed by the local government, republished, and offered again at a subsequent auction.
PROHIBITED PURCHASERS OR BIDDERS: No person or entity, or entity controlled by such person, that (1) is an owner or taxpayer of real property situated in Ramsey County that has delinquent property taxes, (2) has held a rental license in Ramsey County and the license has been revoked within the last five years, or is currently the subject of a revocation proceeding, (3) currently has a contract for purchase of tax-forfeited lands for a structure that does not meet the requirements of a code compliance inspection report or home inspection report issued within the past year, and has not filed a certificate of code compliance with the Tax-Forfeited Land section or successfully finalized and closed-out all permits through the city in which the parcel is located, or (4) within the past five years, has had a contract for purchase of tax-forfeited lands cancelled, or currently subject to cancellation.
After a winning bid, but before closing, a search will be performed to determine if the winning bidder is a prohibited purchaser or bidder and closing of the sale will not take place until the search verifies that the winning bidder is not a prohibited purchaser or bidder. In the event that a winning bid has been awarded to a prohibited bidder or purchaser, the sale will be nullified. The property will be re-bid or re-offered at a future auction, at the sole discretion of Ramsey County.
ADDITIONAL PROHIBITED PURCHASERS OR BIDDERS: None of the following individuals (either personally or as an agent or attorney for any other person) may bid on and purchase a parcel of tax-forfeited land unless the parcel was owned by the individual before forfeiture: district court administrators county auditors, treasurer, assessors or supervisors of assessments, land commissioners or assistant land commissioners for taxforfeited lands, or any deputies or employees of any of the above individuals. (M.S. 282.016). PAYMENT TERMS: Items must be paid for in full within ten days from the date of the award. If not paid and claimed, Ramsey County reserves the right to auction, in its sole discretion, any such items after the ten-day period. Payment may be made in the form of a money order or cashier’s check made payable to “Surplus Services”. Cash will not be accepted.
PROPERTY TAX: Tax-forfeited property is removed from the county assessment tax rolls at the time of forfeiture. Property is returned to the tax rolls immediately after sale, and the payment of property taxes will commence the year following the year of sale. For example, if the property is sold in 2024, payment of property taxes will commence in 2025. It is the Buyer's responsibility to contact Ramsey County or the city assessor where the property is located, to determine estimated future taxes payable.
FEES: At the closing of the sale, the following fees will be collected:
• Assurance Fee: 3% of the total sales price
• State Deed Recording Fee: $51.00
• Deed Preparation Fee: $25.00
• Deed Tax: $.0034 of the total sales price
SELLER NOT ABLE TO PAY CLOSING COSTS, SPECIALS, OR STAT-
UTORY FEES: Ramsey County will not contribute funds toward payment for the buyer's additional closing costs, special assessments cancelled due to forfeiture, assurance fee, or other statutory fees.
FORMER OWNERS: If you are a former owner of a parcel being auctioned, you must pay the Minimum Bid price or the amount of delinquency, whichever is more, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 282.01, Subd. 7.
*All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are permitted.
*Ramsey County is not responsible for locating or determining property lines or boundaries.
PROPERTY CONDITION: All property is sold “as is” and may not conform to local building and zoning ordinances. The county makes no warranty that the land is “buildable”.
Purchasers are encouraged to contact the city where the property is located for information about building codes, zoning laws, or other municipal information that affects the property.
Purchaser acknowledges that Buyer(s) were able to obtain authorization from Ramsey County to perform soil testing at Buyer’s own expense, before purchasing parcel or parcels. The sale will not be rescinded if soil problems of any type are discovered after the sale.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INDEMNIFICATION: The purchaser shall indemnify Ramsey County and/or the State of Minnesota for environmental contamination as a result of the purchaser's use and occupancy of the property.
STATE DEED ORDERING: Conveyance of tax-forfeit property is made by State Deed on a form prepared by the Minnesota Attorney General and executed by the Minnesota Department of Revenue on behalf of the State of Minnesota. By law, a State Deed cannot be ordered until the full purchase price for the subject property has been received by the County Auditor. Therefore, to process an order for a State Deed, the full purchase price must be tendered.
TITLE: The County or the State of Minnesota does not warrant the condition of the title. The buyer will receive documentation of Purchase at the time of the sale, and/or the Commissioner of Revenue will issue a deed from the State of Minnesota after full payment is made. Tax forfeiture will create a break in the chain of title. SELLER CONVEYS TAX TITLE, and the services of an attorney may be necessary to make the title marketable.
CODE COMPLIANCE CLAUSE: If a structure exists on the property that does not meet the requirements of a code compliance inspection report or home inspection report issued within the past year, then, within twelve (12) months of the execution date the buyer, as a condition of the Contract for
Deed, shall file with the Tax-Forfeited Land section of Ramsey County a certificate of code compliance, as required by the city in which the property is located. Buyer must provide seller with proof of compliance, or the buyer will be in default of the Contract for Deed. FOR ALL LAND NOT IN A PLATTED SUBDIVISION: There are restrictive covenants required for marginal lands and wetlands, including lands in Auditor’s Subdivisions (see Minnesota Statutes 2007, Section 103F.535, Subd. 1, and Minnesota Statutes 2007, Section 282.018, Subd. 2)
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS: Local improvements not yet assessed, and any special assessments levied after forfeiture must be assumed by the purchaser. In addition, any remaining balance of cancelled special assessments that existed before the tax-forfeiture MAY BE REASSESSED by the municipality. It is the responsibility of the prospective purchaser to contact the city to determine special assessments that may have been canceled and may be subject to reassessment, and the city’s terms for the payment of such assessments.
DEED CONDITIONS: The following terms and conditions will be included in the deed you receive from the State of Minnesota.
REVERTER: If the purchaser, their successor, or assigns, shall not comply with the above terms and conditions, title to the property shall automatically revert to the State of Minnesota. Compliance with the above terms and conditions shall be evidenced by a certificate of compliance recorded in the real property records of Ramsey County.
“AS-IS” SALE: Buyer agrees that the property shall be sold and that buyer shall accept the property “as is, where is, with all faults”, with no right of set-off or reduction in the purchase price, and that such sale shall be without representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, including without limitation warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, and seller does hereby disclaim and renounce any such representation or warranty. Buyer specifically acknowledges that Buyer is not relying on any representations or warranties of any kind whatsoever, express or implied, from Seller, Agent, other agents, or brokers as to the condition of or as to any matter concerning the property. Buyer further acknowledges and agrees that it is relying solely upon its own independent examination, inspection, study, and knowledge of the property and not upon any information or representations made to it by seller, its officers, directors, contractors, agents, or employees or any person whomsoever. Buyer hereby expressly assumes all risks, liabilities, claims, damages, and costs (and agrees that seller shall not be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages) resulting or arising from or related to the ownership, use, condition, location, maintenance, repair, or operation of the property. Buyer acknowledges that any condition of the property which buyer discovers prior to or after the closing date shall be at buyer’s sole expense, and buyer expressly waives and releases seller and seller’s agents, commissioners, employees, directors, officers and representatives from any claims, demands, losses, liabilities, damages, penalties, fines, liens, judgments, costs or expenses under federal law, state or other law, that buyer might otherwise have against seller or seller’s agents and/or representatives relating to the physical characteristics or condition of the property including the environmental condition of the property. Buyer acknowledges that the purchase price reflects the "as-is" nature of this sale and any faults, liabilities, defects, or other adverse matters that may be associated with the property. Buyer has had the opportunity to fully review the disclaimers and waivers set forth herein, with its counsel, and understand the significance and effect thereof. This provision will be included in the State Deed that conveys the property. The above terms shall run with the land and shall be binding on the purchaser, and the purchaser’s successors and assigns. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: If you have additional questions regarding the sale or the terms and conditions of the sale, you may contact the Tax Forfeited Land section at: Phone: (651) 266-2080
Email: TFL@co.ramsey.mn.us
In Person: 90 W. Plato Blvd., St. Paul, MN
This Notice of Sale, the Resolution authorizing the sale, and the Auction List are on file in the office of the Ramsey County Auditor/Treasurer in the Property Tax, Records, and Election Services Department, and notice is hereby given in accordance with state statutes.
The County Manager has the authority to remove any parcel prior to the sale where insufficient time exists for board approval of the removal from the auction and to bring it back to the County Board for ratification of the removal. IN ORDER TO PROTECT YOUR LEGAL INTERESTS, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU CONSULT WITH YOUR ATTORNEY REGARDING THE CONTRACT AND ON OTHER LEGAL MATTERS.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Vadnais Heights City Council will meet and conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, May 5 at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 800 East County Road E, to consider an ordinance regarding alternative energy systems.
Anyone wishing to be heard regarding this matter will be given an opportunity at this time. The application is available for public review at City Hall during normal business hours and will be posted on the City’s website in advance of the meeting. Questions or comments should be directed to Nolan Wall, Planning/Community Development Director, at 651-204-6027 or nolan. wall@cityvadnaisheights.com.
FOR THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
Kevin P. Watson, City Administrator
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22 and 29, 2026
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS
PUBLIC NOTICE — ORDINANCE 794
The City Council of the City of Vadnais Heights has adopted Ordinance No. 794: Setting Lift Assist Fees: Amending City Code Chapter 8 Article V and Chapter 14 Articles I and II. The ordinance:
• Adds scope, purpose, and definitions to Chapter 14
• Moves fire false alarms from Chapter 8 to Chapter 14
• Updates name of Minnesota State Fire Code
• Outlines purpose and procedures for lift assist fees
The full text of Ordinance No. 794 is available for inspection at Vadnais Heights City Hall during regular business hours.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22, 2026.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS PUBLIC NOTICE — ORDINANCE 796
The City Council of the City of Vadnais Heights has adopted Ordinance No. 796: Adopting Changes to the 2026 Fee Schedule. The ordinance:
• Adds lift assist fees in accordinace with Ordinance No. 794
• Removes outdated fees such as carnival and taverns
The full text of Ordinance No. 796 is available for inspection at Vadnais Heights City Hall during regular business hours.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22, 2026.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS PUBLIC NOTICE — ORDINANCE 797
The City Council of the City of Vadnais Heights has adopted Ordinance No. 797: Adopting Changes to City Code Chapter 10, Article II, Division 5, Sections 10-167- to 10-177. The ordinance:
• Updates definitions and requirements of the Public Outdoor Event
The full text of Ordinance No. 797 is available for inspection at Vadnais Heights City Hall during regular business hours.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22, 2026.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER
ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION B2026-042 APRIL 14, 2026
SPONSOR: Public Works
TITLE: Vacation of Unimproved County Road Right-of-Way
BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE:
A recent review of a proposed subdivision plat revealed that the land included an interest in favor of the County of Ramsey (“County”) as road rightof-way that is not currently being used and does not appear to be necessary for current or planned needs.
The unused county road right-of-way is located on the eastern border of Ramsey County, bordering Washington County’s western border. The legal description, which contains the unused right-of-way to be vacated, is: The east 33 feet of the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter and the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 24, Township 28, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota. This property has historically been part of the Bailey Nurseries property.
Review of the history of the right-of-way demonstrates that the right-of-way was created in 1894, according to Document No. 182943, through an order of the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners opening the county road. The order clearly defined a specific location for the road, though there is no evidence that the road was actually built through this particular property. Other north-south roadways in the area were established, likely reducing the need to build the road at this location. The proposed subdivision will dedicate new right-of-way on the Washington County side of the project, east of where the current right-of-way is.
The vacation of unused rights-of-way that are recorded against the property and are not currently used or needed for foreseeable public uses would return the property to unencumbered use by the property owner, would help clear the title to the property, would remove land that requires potential county maintenance, and would eliminate risk and potential liabilities associated with the historic property interests. Therefore, the county engineer recommends vacating the county’s interest in the unused right-of-way. The county may vacate its interest in the county highway pursuant to Minnesota
Statute Section 163.11, subdivision 4 if:
• The County Board approves this resolution.
• The county has caused personal service of this resolution to be made upon each occupant of land through which the vacated portions pass.
• The county also must post notice of the resolution for at least ten days.
• The county shall file this resolution together with proof of service and the affidavit of posting in the County Auditor’s Office and the County Recorder’s Office.
• Any person claiming to be damaged by the vacation may appeal within 30 days after the service. Therefore, Ramsey County may vacate the interest in the county road right-of-way by adopting this resolution to vacate the above-described rightof-way and completing the above-described steps.
RECOMMENDATION: The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to:
1. Approve the vacation of unimproved county road right-of-way located along the eastern border of Ramsey County within the Northeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter and the Southeast Quarter of the Southeast Quarter of Section 24, Township 28, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota. 2. Request that a copy of this resolution be filed with the County Auditor and the County Recorder.
A motion to approve was made by Commissioner Moran, seconded by Commissioner McGuire. Motion passed.
Aye: - 7: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Ortega, and Xiong
I, Jason Yang, 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 (B2026-042), passed by the Board of Commissioners on 04/14/2026.
By: Jason Yang, Chief Clerk - County Board
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22, 2026.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER
ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES
APRIL 7, 2026
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:00 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Miller.
AGENDA of April 7, 2026 was presented for approval. Motion by Xiong, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved.
MINUTES of March 17, 2026 were presented for approval. Motion by Miller, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved.
PROCLAMATION
County Manager’s Office – Proclamation: National County Government Month. Presented by Commissioner Miller. Discussion can be found on archived video.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
Property Tax, Records & Election Services – Charitable Gambling License with White Bear Township for White Bear Lake Hockey Association and Cooper’s. Motion by Miller, seconded by Jebens-Singh. Unanimously approved. (B2026-039)
County Attorney’s Office – First Amendment to the Single Source Agreement with Children’s HealthCare Corporation. Motion by Miller, seconded by Jebens-Singh. Unanimously approved. (B2026-040)
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Presented by Commissioner McGuire. Discussion can be found on archived video.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
Presented by County Manager, Ling Becker, and Medical Director, Public Health, Lynne Ogawa. Discussion can be found on archived video.
OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
Commissioner Xiong left the meeting at 9:42 a.m. after discussing her reports. Discussion can be found on archived video.
BOARD CHAIR UPDATE No updates.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:10 a.m.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22, 2026.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY
DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT
PROBATE COURT DIVISION
COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-324
AMENDED
NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF DECEDENT. PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of: Thomas James Gosse Sr., a/k/a Thomas J. Gosse and Thomas J. Gosse Sr. and Thomas James Gosse,
Decedent
NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 2:15 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court on the amended petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination ofheirship, and for the appointment of Thomas J. Gosse Jr., whose address is 2808 W Ban·y Avenue, Unit 2E, Chicago, IL 60618, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in a supervised administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.
NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.
Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.
BY THE COURT
Theresa Ames, District Court Administrator
BY: Michael Syverud, Deputy Court Administrator
Date: April 13, 2026
Attorney for Petioner
Daniel M. Sheridan
SHERIDAN LAW OFFICES, P.A.
4470 Erin Drive, Suite 101
Eagan, MN 55122
Attorney License No.: 183210
Telephone: 651-452-8705
Fax: 651-452-8745
Email: law@sheridanlaw.org
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on April 22 and 29, 2026. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-309
NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In re the Estate of:
Louis C. Sudheimer,
Decedent.
NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 3:30 p.m until 3:45 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated April 8, 2025, (“Will”), and for the appointment of Fiduciary Foundation, LLC, whose address is PO Box 120500, Saint Paul, Minnesota, 55112, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in a supervised administration.
Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.
Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.
NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.
BY THE COURT: Date: April 3, 2026
Tracey Ames, Court Administrator BY: Michael Syverud, Deputy Court Administrator
Attorney for Petitioner
Spencer C. Butts MN# 392116 100 Washington Avenue South, Suite 1700 Minneapolis, MN, 55401
Telephone: 612-339-7300
Facsimile: 612-336-2940
e-mail: sbutts@chestnutcambronne.com
Making arrangements for a funeral?
Remember to ask your funeral home to send us the obituary notice and we can get it published in our local newspapers and online for friends and families to see.
OBITUARIES
Pamela LaBelle
67, passed away Feb. 15, 2026 at her home in Mesquite, NV. She was born Jan. 13, 1959, in St. Paul, MN to George and Eileen Kohn (Rogers). She is survived by her spouse, William LaBelle; children, Nicholis Kohn and Zachary LaBelle; sisters, Deb Kapaun, Sheila Klietz, and Janice Miller; brothers, Brian Kohn and Vincent Kohn. Celebration of Life will be held at 5pm Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake, MN, with visitation starting at 3pm. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944 www.muellermemorial.com
David Charles Anderson
79, Lindstrom MN, passed away on April 8, 2026. A celebration of Dave’s life 11 AM Thursday, April 23rd with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. RobertsFamilyFH.com 651-464-4422
To submit an obituary
Call: 651-407-1250
Email: obits@presspubs.com
Visit: 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN
Bridge to Guaranteed Income
Being prepared is worth its weight in gold. When we are prepared AND have time on our side, then the world may be your oyster. We could bore you with numbers and logic, but, where would that get you?
If you knew, with 100% certainty, your income retirement number was taken care of, with a guaranteed stream of monthly income, then how would this make you feel?
We have a bridge to your guaranteed income solution.
If this sparks a thought, then let’s set a time and open the conversation.
Above: A sculpture made of recycled material by Jo Treuenfels titled “Hound” is among
written submissions currently on display in the Ford Family Gallery
exhibition hall at the White Bear Center for the Arts.
At right: An acrylic painting by Camille Hirsch titled “From Sunrise to Sunset” received Best of Show honors from the judges.
Above:
At left: Siblings Louise and Ethan Fehrman pose for a photo in the gallery. The “Vision & Verse: High School Visual Art and Writing Exhibiton” is on display through May 15.
Mahtomedi graduate publishes debut novel inspired by parents’ romance
A Pine Springs native with roots in the Mahtomedi community has turned a deeply personal story into her first published work. In “Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story,” the Lisa Boatman captures her parents’ decades-long relationship — from a memorable first date to a 60-year marriage — offering a reflection on love, commitment and how relationships have evolved over time. Now living in Libson, Portugal, the 1988 Mahtomedi High School grad shares how her upbringing, career journey and family history inspired the book, along with what she hopes readers will take away from the tribute to her parents, Howard and Karen Boatman, who still reside in Pine Springs.
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Is this your first published work?
A. My family moved to Pine Springs from Washington, D.C., in 1985. I graduated from Mahtomedi High School in 1988, then attended Southwest Minnesota State in Marshall and Huron University in South Dakota. My career took some unexpected plot twists — including dealing blackjack at Grand Casino Hinckley and owning a liquor store in Mississippi. In 2007, I returned to Minnesota and served as a firefighter for Columbia Heights. In 2022, I began a new chapter as an English teacher, tour guide and author in Europe. “Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story” is my first published book.
Q. What inspired you to write ‘Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story?’
A. Growing up, I always loved hearing my parents’ love story — how they met, how they admired each other from afar, and how my father tracked down a Ford Model A with a rumble seat for their very first
date. He was determined to make the evening memorable. In early 2025, when it became clear I wouldn’t be able to travel home for their 60th wedding anniversary, I decided to do something meaningful, too — I started writing their love story. I kept the project completely secret. They had no idea. The original plan was to reveal the book at their anniversary party — but my parents opted for a quiet celebration instead. A close friend stopped by their house to do the reveal while I watched via video call from Lisbon. They captured the moment on video, too.
Q. How did growing up in Pine Springs and the Mahtomedi community shape your perspective on family and relationships?
A. Family runs deep in the Mahtomedi community. Even though I only joined the district for high school, most of my classmates had grown up together since Wildwood Elementary. That sense of deep-rooted connection stayed with me and shaped how I understand family and loyalty. It’s no surprise that so many of those classmates still live in the area today.
Q. What do you think is the secret to their 60-year marriage?
A. Howard and Karen share a strong personal foundation — self-awareness, a caring nature, respect for others, responsibility, unwavering commitment, patience and the ability to compromise. At its core, love is a leap of faith built on the trust that your partner will be there when you need them most. Like every couple, they’ve had their share of problems. But that shared foundation is what carries them through.
Q. Were there any moments in their story that surprised you while writing the book?
A. What struck me most was how certain they both were from the very first date. Karen and Howard came from com-
pletely opposite worlds — different upbringings, different states, and even on campus, they moved in entirely separate social bubbles. He was going to take over the family farm after graduation, and she was a city girl with dreams of living in the big city. Yet from that first date, they each knew they had found the person they wanted to spend their life with. No hesitation, no second-guessing.
Karen felt the moment was when they were watching “Dr. Zhivago” at the movie theater. Unlike the other guys on campus, Howard was sincere, and he genuinely understood her. Sitting beside him in the dark, his arm around her, she felt something unexpected: safe, warm and comfortable. Like slipping on a favorite sweater on a cold January day — it just fit.
Howard knew that, as a farmer, he was unlikely to impress one of the most sought-after girls on campus with a typical dinner and a movie. He had to make the date unique. I think for him, he always knew she was the one.
From that moment on, their lives were not about “I” but about “us.”
Q. How did your parents react when they first read the memoir?
A. My mom devoured every page. My dad appreciated the detailed portrayal of his 1950s childhood on the farm in Lake City, Iowa, as well as the story of their first
date. That said, I did take some creative liberties for dramatic effect. While both Karen and Howard did experience difficult family dynamics growing up, they felt I portrayed those moments a bit too harshly. For that reason, the book’s preface notes that it is based on a true story — not every detail is historically accurate.
Q. What do you hope readers take away from their love story?
A. In an age of instant gratification and dating apps, we’ve reduced romance to a left or right swipe. Howard and Karen’s 1960s love story is both uniquely theirs and universally relatable — yet its lessons feel timeless. Lasting relationships are built on self-love, honesty, commitment and a willingness to take a leap of faith. Without those qualities from both partners, any relationship will eventually struggle.
Q. Your book contrasts 1960s romance with today’s dating culture. What differences stand out most to you?
A. Modern romance
Q&A with Howard and Karen Boatman
Q. How did you guys find out about your daughter’s book?
A. Howard: Well, very secretively. Our daughter, Lisa, called up and said, “Hey, you got somebody coming over to your house on your anniversary.” I said, “Who’s coming over?” “A friend of mine. He wants to give you something.” I said, “Well, okay. We’re not planning to do anything on our anniversary. We were just going to sit home. Take it easy.” Well, pretty soon someone comes over and he starts taking pictures with his camera … They recorded everything. It was chaos. Lisa was on the phone at the same time … They handed us the book.
Q. What did it mean to you that your daughter wrote a book about your love story?
A. Karen: We were just so appreciative that she would do something like that. Howard: We were flat-footed. We didn’t know what was going on. We had no idea whatsoever she was planning the book. I knew she was very disappointed that she couldn’t get away from work in Portugal to come home for our anniversary. This was going to be a little surprise for us because she couldn’t come. That’s all we knew about it … It was absolutely a total surprise. She kept it a secret from us. We knew she was writing some books, but we had no idea she was writing a book about us.
Q. What do you want people to know about your love story?
A. Howard: We are entirely different people. We were both on different glide paths for our careers and were obviously not interested in going with somebody from the other side. I was very much involved in farming, and she was going to school to be a professional. We had absolutely no interest in the other person at all whatsoever professionally.
She happened to be a very attractive lady, and I asked her for a date, and she turned me down and that made me mad. We met at a Halloween party at the end of October, and we had our first date on the second of May the following spring. I probably asked her out two dozen times during that period of time, but she always turned me down. Karen: It took a long time (to say yes).
tends to revolve around big moments — love at first sight, instant connection and grand cinematic moments. Howard and Karen's story had none of that. Their relationship grew quietly, without fanfare. They didn't need grand gestures to know they were right for each other. For example, most wives can tell you exactly how and where her husband proposed — the sights, the events, etc. When I asked Karen about the moment he proposed, she couldn’t remember. “It was in his Volkswagen Beetle, I think,” she said. Howard remembered more. “I proposed in my car outside Comstock Hall at the U of M,” he recalled. “And it was cold outside. That’s what I remember most.”
Q. Are you working on any future projects?
A. Yes! I’m currently working on a crime novel set in Portugal, following an American living abroad. I’m hoping to have it out this fall.
Q. Where can people find this book?
A. “Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story” is available on Amazon worldwide in paperback and Kindle. There is a link on my website at www.LisaBoatman.com. It is sold on all major digital platforms in the United States, including Barnes & Noble, Apple Books and Google Play Books.
Compiled by Shannon Granholm
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Howard and Karen Boatman have been married for 60 years.
Lisa Boatman
Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from
96 as an expansion corridor but looking at opportunities for the corridor,” she explained. “Highway 96 is a very unique corridor in that it is windy, both side to side and up and down, which can often create a lot of blind spots.”
The study revealed that most of the safety concerns are primarily at intersections. The project team looked at existing crash data and considered “proactive improvements” to address potential future safety concerns. For example, the addition of turn lanes at blind spots along the corridor was evaluated.
In general, she says the community was supportive of exploring safety improvements. “The primary things that we heard from the public … is general support for exploring improvements; they were happy somebody is looking at this corridor,” she recalled. “Certainly, there were a lot of concerns for safety and traffic speeds; we hear that on most of our projects throughout the county.”
There was also a strong interest in improving pedestrian facilities, including crossings, but mixed feedback on what types of pedestrian facilities and as to whether there should be a separated trail. Highway 96, between White Bear Lake County Park and the Gateway State Trail, is identified as a future regional trail route in the Lake Links Trail Network Master Plan, which was developed and approved by Washington and Ramsey counties in 2001.
“Something that was very unique for this corridor study is that we heard loud and clear from the public that there is a value in balancing any roadway or bike/
pedestrian improvements with preserving the unique nature of the roadway,” Dahlheimer said. “I think people are interested in improvements, but we need to balance that specifically with how we may be impacting or changing the character of Highway 96.”
Recommendations
Whereas the first two open houses focused on gathering feedback from the public and identifying priorities, Dahlheimer says the third and final open house is designed to present the study’s recommendations, which are posted on the project’s website (see sidebar).
The study recommendations are broken into short-term, mid-term and long-term improvements for the portion of roadway east of Highway 244, and short-term and long-term improvements for the roadway west of Highway 244.
“I think overall, all of the partner agencies involved really view this study as a success. We have had a lot of great conversations with our partner agencies and the public to get a good understanding of what improvements we should be thinking about along this corridor,” Dahlheimer said.
“On the Washington County side, we feel strongly that this study has set us up for success in 2028, and we feel like the improvements are reflective of the comments we have heard. There is a lot of excitement from our side about this study and how this is setting us up for the future.”
In the short term, Washington County is in the final design phase for the Highway 5, 55 and 96 intersection improvement project. The county’s 2028 capital
White Bear Lake Area
improvement plan calls for a larger project, which is proposed to include pavement preservation and guardrail replacement, as well as intersection lighting and the addition of turn lanes at certain intersections and potential trail connections.
Mid-term improvements between Highway 244 and Apple Orchard Road could include pavement preservation, intersection improvements at Apple Orchard Road and a separated trail. Longterm improvements could include a trail feasibility assessment between Apple Orchard Road and the Gateway State Trail, additional intersection improvements and turn lanes as needs arise, as well as an intersection improvement at Highway 244.
West of Highway 244
The study recommends that Ramsey County construct a trail connection between White Bear Lake County Park and Pacific Avenue in 2026. MnDOT also has a pavement preservation project planned between Highway 244 and Highway 61 in 2031. The project is proposed to include a mill and overlay and address pedestrian intersections, ADA accommodations and some spot storm sewer and drainage improvements.
“The vision is asking for reconstruction of the roadway, because the county won’t accept a roadway turnback that is not reconstructed. Well, when you change a project from a preservation activity to roadway reconstruction, the dollar amount changes as well. We have to identify additional funding and resources …” explained MnDOT North Area Manager Dale
Gade. “It’s great that the study set that vision, but now the hard work begins.”
Gade added that some harder conversations will have to happen in terms of where the funding will come from and what each entity would be responsible for. The main challenge will be right of way. He described the right-of-way footprint as “uncertain,” especially within the White Bear Lake area of the project.
“So that leaves MnDOT to use what we term prescriptive rights, which means we only have the footprint for the current roadway that we are using today,” he said. “If there is a desire to expand the roadway for multimodal, i.e., a trail involved, then we have to reacquire the rights (and) justify the acquisition for those rights through those properties along the corridor. That means property taking; that’s where things get ugly.”
Typically, MnDOT does not invest in regional trails with trunk highway funds. The question then becomes who would be the entity to go through the right-of-way acquisition, which could be a long and expensive process.
“I love that we have a vision; I love that we are going to try to work towards that. The question is figuring out those pieces, and that is going to require some more conversations,” Gade said. “Like with any other study, I hope we move into having those tough conversations and figuring out how to get it to implementation.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Church Directory
E R V I C E D I
Living Colors Painting 612-394-8978
Richard, the owner of Living Colors Painting, was born in Marshall, MN. His family moved around quite a bit until they settled down in Woodbury, MN. It was there where he graduated high school and started his first painting job. Being passionate about art, painting came natural to him and was a way he could express his love for art with others. As a young adult, he moved around the United States and even spent 5 years in O’ahu, Hawaii painting. Then he moved back to Minnesota where he now lives in White Bear Lake. He has been painting for over 35 years and enjoys painting for local customers. He also loves pets, particularly dogs and cats, and has been known to bring treats along with him to jobs. In his free time, he loves to hike, travel to Hawaii, garden, and collect rocks and crystals.
CLASSIFIEDS
Scrap meta l,appliance p/u 651*/329*0815
NOW HIRING! GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Part time 6-12 hours/week Entry level position
Experience with indesign, illustrator and photoshop preferred
Main responsibilities include ad design and newspaper layout Send resume to artmanager@presspubs.com
Help Wanted - Office Work ACT-Asphalt Specialties April through November
We are a seasonal construction business located in Shoreview but moving to a new building this summer in Columbus on Lake Drive near 35W. 30-40 hours per week.
Job Duties include: -customer service, phone and email -scheduling notification and processing -invoicing -online permit applications -online gopher notification -website and social media updates -marketing assistance Text or Call Erik 651-755-5256 or apply at www.asphaltmn.com Older applicants encouraged
We are looking for a part-time copy editor
Press Publications is looking for a parttime copy editor to help proof content on a contract basis. Applicants should be knowledgeable in AP style and have journalism experience. If interested, email whitebearnews@ presspubs.com or call 651-407-1227.
Now hiring Dump Truck Driver ACT-Asphalt Specialties
Qualifications: Class A or Class B license. Both new or experienced drivers encouraged to apply.
Text or Call Erik 651-755-5256 or apply at www.asphaltmn.com
CHOOSE EARTHLINK FIBER Intern et for sp eeds up to 5 Gigs no data caps no thrott ling. Prices starting at $54.95. Plus, a $100 gift card when you make the sw itch Call 844/*453*698 3
DON'T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for an yone who struggles on the stairs is co ncerned about a fall or wa nts to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 86 6/*852*5506
or not Titled or not Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/*720*2142
position/171 days/year 6.5 Hr s./Day Elementa ry School 5.5 Hrs./day Elementary School 4 Hrs./Day High School Salary Range $12.33-$18.63. Apply at www.ap plitrack.com/isd876/online app/
GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to a ssist the blind and visually impaired. Ar range a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Herita ge for the Blin d Today at 844*/220 *9501 today!
GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERN ET! Free in stall, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies plus limited time up to $600 In gift cards. Call today! 85 5/*562*4309
SAFE STEP NORTH Amer icas #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and se rvice. Now featuring our FR EE shower pa ckage and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call to day! Financing available. Call Safe Step 833/*966*3882
SP TTED
1. A mysterious tree showed up on White Bear Lake near VFW Post 1782. Boaters secured the tree to a hidden pole in the water to mark its presence and keep boaters safe. — Terry Honsa, contributed
2. Brian McGoldrick, owner of Admiral D’s, threw the first pitch at a Minnesota Twins Game’s last week. McGoldrick is a longstanding season ticket holder. — Billy McLaughlin, contributed
3. The White Bear Lake School District Superintendent Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak spoke at the White Bear Lake Retired Teachers meeting this month. The group of retired White Bear Lake teachers, which meets once a month, enjoys learning about current school district news. — Connie Stirling, contributed
4. The White Bear Lake Rotary Club recently hosted its first chili cookoff. During the event, the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society hosted a trivia contest.
— Contributed
5. The city of White Bear Lake recently placed a group of new and improved skids on the shoreline near the boat landing at Matoska Park. — Paul Dols | Press Publications
6. White Bear Lake resident Dave Schad taps trees on Fourth and Fifth Streets and Johnson Avenue near Lake Avenue. — Carter Johnson, Press Publications
7. Melissa Telsrow, Bridget Cavanagh and Katie Philippi took a cold plunge on a hot day in Bald Eagle Lake April 16. — Catherine Ellefson, contributed
Subscribe Today
Subscribe Today
Pederson, Oklahoma NCAA champions again
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
White Bear Lake gymnast Lily Pederson is now 2-for-2 in collecting national championships with the University of Oklahoma.
The 4-foot-10 sophomore turned in crucial vault and floor exercise scores to help the Sooners repeat as champion with 198.1625 points, just ahead of Louisiana State’s 198.075, on Saturday at Fort Worth. Also in the final four were Florida (197.6875) and the Minnesota Gophers (197.3750).
Oklahoma trailed by .075 points entering the final event, floor exercise. Pederson, up second, earned a 9.9375 score, and the final three also topped 9.90 to squeeze out the championship.
"We've been really prepared for this," Pederson said, in a Soonersports. com account. "In the moment, you have to go
BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS
SOFTBALL
big or go home and holding back is just going to make it worse.”
Pederson also anchored Oklahoma’s vaulting quintet and exploded for a nearperfect 9.9875 for her Yurchencko 1.5 twist. Oklahoma, coached by KJ Kindler, has won four of the last five
Forest Lake senior ace Avery Muellner fired a three-hit shutout with 10 strikeouts as the Rangers beat White Bear Lake 3-0. Her catcher Karianne Drury belted a two-run homer. Bear pitcher Lilly Martin, facing an 8-0 team averaging over 11 runs per game, allowed just four hits and struck out 10. The Bears beat Wayzata 7-2 as Martin belted a three-run homer and pitched two innings (one run). Lilah Evans had a solo homer and pitched five innings (one run, five hits, no walks) for the win. Going 2-for-2 were Anessa Pena (two RBI’s) and Allie Castro.
BOYS GOLF
White Bear Lake placed sixth of 10 teams in the opening Suburban East Conference meet at River Oaks. Cretin-Derham Hall won with 295. The Bears totaled 319. Easton Fiddle tied for third with 73. Ryan Kissner shot 81, Gracy Giefer 82 and Cody Olinger 83.
BOYS TRACK
White Bear Lake placed fourth of 10 teams in a home invitational. Spring Lake Park placed first. The Bears won the 4x100 with Brian White, Tomi Animasaun, Antonio Brown and Easton Miles (43.71). Miles won long jump (21-8) with Animasaun fourth (21-5). They placed 3-4-5 in pole vault with James Bowen (12-6), Cason Jurgens (12-6) and Alexander Maki (12-0). Vincent Kazmierczak was fourth in shot put (46-9) and discus (142-1).
GIRLS TRACK
White Bear Lake had one first place and three seconds in a Mounds View meet for the Suburban East Conference. Team scoring was not kept. The Bears won the 4x100 (53.35). Piper Heinsohn was second in the 400 (59.52). Brynn Heinsohn was second in the 800 (2:29.42). Madelyn Erickson was second in shot
NCAA titles, and eight in all. Pederson was recruited for Kindler’s dynastic program out of White Bear Lake’s Flips club under Bart and Lori Roskoski. Pederson contributed to the 2025 title also but had a bigger role this year.
put (37-1/2) and Pearl Niemioja third (35-11). Isla Bloomquist was third in the 1600 (5:40).
TENNIS
White Bear Lake (4-1) nipped Roseville Area 4-3. Winning singles for the Bears were Martin Hennig, Mason Voeller add Asher Ludwig (7-5, 1-6, 6-2) at 2-3-4. Graham Hennig lost at No. 1 to Ravi Kumar 6-3, 6-1. The fourth point came from Joseph Karls/Keagan McGovern 6-4, 4-6, 6-1 at 3-doubles. The Bears beat Osseo 6-1. Martin Hennig, Voeller, Graham Hennig and Ludwig won in singles. Quintin Kapisak/Carter Docken and Keenan Griffin/Karls won at 1 and 3 doubles.
BOYS LACROSSE
White Bear Lake has a 2-1 record after losing to East Ridge 17-10. Previously the Bears beat Maple Grove 17-14 and Roseville Area 25-4. Against Maple Grove, Wyatt Raleigh netted seven goals and Liam Maloy four. Adrian Echer won 12 ground balls. Reid Vickstrom stopped seven of 17 shots Against Roseville, eleven players had goals, led by Gavin Huot with nine and Colton Butts with four.
GIRLS LACROSSE
White Bear Lake is 3-0 after beating East Ridge 15-5 and Roseville 7-6. Against East Ridge, Caylen Helmberger and Rylan West made four goals each and Olivia Helvig and Hazel Helvig two each. West won seven ground balls. The Bears edged Roseville with Ami Samaniego and Megan Packer netting two goals each and Mia Huntley and Mikaela Hjelsetha one each.
BASEBALL
The Bears are 0-4 after a pair of shutout losses last week, to Woodbury 8-0 and Forest Lake 10-0.
Bruce Strand
Zephyrs cruise in 2 shutout wins
Mahtomedi posted lopsided shutout wins last week over Hastings 7-0 and Simley 12-0, both on the road. The defending state Class 3A champions are 4-1.
Tino Foster blanked Hastings on two hits and no walks, striking out five and went 3-for-3 at the plate with two RBI’s. Connor Finn had a double and two RBI’s.
Against Simley, Finn threw 5.33 innings, allowing one hit, striking
out 11 and hit a two-run homer. Cody Loida got the last four outs, two by strikeouts.
Loida had four RBI’s with a double and sac fly. Jacob Reubish had four RBI’s on a double and single. Frank Schwieters hit a solo homer. Luke Torgrude was 3-for-4 (three runs) and Cam Hentsch was 2-for-4 (two runs).
Bruce Strand
TENNIS
Playing four straight days last week, the Zephyrs (5-2) beat Benilde-St. Margaret’s 4-0 (rainshortened), lost to Orono 6-1 and won 7-0 over North St. Paul and 7-0 over Tartan. Eli Hendrickson/Tyler Chesak had the lone point against Orono, which won 48 of 50 games in singles. The lineup against North was Ethan Stout, Chesak, Jonathan Palmquist and Vinnie Berkner in singles, and Reese Nelson/ Gannon Hamen, Colin Carlson/ Elias Barnes and Van Karle/Luke Winter in doubles. Against Tartan it was Nelson, Kento Kedrowski, Palmquist and Easton Jackola in singles, and Hendrickson/Hamen, Emmett See/Barnes, and Sebastian Nef/Ivan Knauss in doubles.
BOYS LACROSSE
Mahtomedi has lost its first four games, to Blaine 5-4, Maple Grove
8-5, Farmington 16-0 and Wayzata 14-4. Top scorers are Seth Erickson with five goals and Lucas Vander Louw with four.
SOFTBALL
Mahtomedi lost to Visitation 1-0, Coon Rapids 10-5 and South St. Paul (SSP) 6-5 last week, dropping to 2-5. Against Visitation, Hayden Walmer threw four innings (one run) and Sydney DeFore three scoreless. Against Coon Rapids, Ellie Lahr was 3-for-3, Alex Pawluk 2-for-4 (RBI, two runs), Lexi Burg 1-for-3 (two RBI), and Kristen Johnson 2-for-3 (RBI). LaFore took the loss. Against SSP, Walmer pitched five innings (three runs, unearned) and Liana Grillo 1 2/3 (three runs, four walks). Lahr was 1-for-3 (two runs) and Walmer 1-for-3 (RBI).
Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Connor Finn
Mahtomedi Baseball April 22, 2026
Connor Finn, Mahtomedi senior pitcher/outfielder, has won his first two starts, allowing just four hits and no runs in 9 1/3 innings with 14 strikeouts. A 6-foot-3 left-hander whose fastball has hit 95 mph, he is ranked No. 3 among 2026 prospects in the state, according to Prep Baseball Report. Finn is 6-for-19 at the plate with a homer and six RBI’s. He made the all-tournament team last June (going 5-for-11, four runs, three RBI’s), when the Zephyrs won the state championship. He has signed with Texas Tech.
ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS
Bruce
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Sid Kolbet (left) of the Zephyrs lacrosse team jousted with Joshua Thompson of Maple Grove.
UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA | CONTRIBUTED
Lily Pederson, one of the leaders for Oklahoma, is a product of Flips Gymnastics in her hometown, White Bear Lake.