Vadnais Heights Press by Press Publications

THE MORE YOU KNOW: Native bees in Minnesota PAGE

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

For more than 62 years, Jeff Carlson of Vadnais Heights has had Type 1 diabetes, a condition he said makes it hard to determine the level of glucose in his body. However, a new canine companion has provided not just support but also companionship in the form of his pet poodle Leo.

“He’s saved me from going to the ER,” said Carlson, “and on a couple of occasions from what could have been a deadly situation if he hadn’t gone and gotten help.”

Carlson initially adopted Leo from Prairie’s Edge Standard Poodles in New Ulm. The duo worked on public training through the American Kennel Club, ultimately passing the program, before starting with Can Do Canines. That program, based in New Hope, helps train and place service dogs for people living with disabilities.

“When I first got him, I had to bring him in and do basic core abilities for a dog to work in public,” Carlson said. “I had to have him work with me and do intermediate-level training outside of Can Do Canines. The American Kennel Club has the prerequisites that a dog must be able to do well in public to be a good citizen, so we had that completed before we started the program.”

Further training helped sharpen Leo’s service skills, which Carlson said come in handy when he experiences diabetic and glucose issues. “Being a diabetic alert dog, he had to go through a lot of pretesting to see how he interacted with me to make sure that it was a good fit,” he said. “Everybody who’s seen us in action has been amazed by the skill set he has for picking up diabetic and glucose issues.”

Since graduating from the program, Carlson says the working relationship

Mainstreet requests social district downtown

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

WHITE BEAR LAKE — Mainstreet Inc. has asked the City Council to develop a downtown social district. Main Street Inc. serves the members that are located in the White Bear Lake Special Service Tax District.

Social districts allow state-authorized communities to designate public areas in which people can carry and consume alcohol. Social district licenses are issued to participating establishments, which serve beverages in branded cups that can be brought outside and consumed within the defined perimeter of the social district.

So far, the Minnesota Legislature has authorized Anoka, Stillwater and Shakopee to establish social districts. According to City Manager Lindy Crawford, Shakopee is implementing its social district this fall, but Stillwater’s launch is on hold to allow for further council discussions and continued public engagement.

In a letter drafted to the council, Mainstreet President Kristin Cranmer wrote, “We believe the creation of a social district has the potential to enhance the vibrancy and economic vitality of the downtown and surrounding business areas by encouraging increased foot traffic, supporting local establishments, and offering a more dynamic experience for residents and visitors alike.”

Crawford said the council must consider whether a social district aligns with the city’s strategic plan; how it would impact the public safety and public works departments; what economic impact it would have; what effect it

SEE SOCIAL DISTRICT, PAGE 9

Newspaper Carrier Day: Honoring the messengers this September

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

At Press Publications, a vital role that ensures subscribers get their newspapers on time is performed by the company’s news carriers. Come rain or shine, carriers power through to deliver the news to doorsteps throughout the week. One of them, Eli Schaefer, has been working as a carrier since he was 10. He said he has enjoyed his position ever since.

“My older siblings delivered papers, so I followed in their footsteps,” said Schaefer. “It’s

easy and flexible, too.”

As a news carrier, Schaefer works approximately 45 minutes a week with a planned list of addresses and streets. “You kind of plan your own route,” he said.

“Once you pick one, it’s yours. The route that you live on is the one that you’re going to be doing. It’s going to be a lot of knocking on different people’s doors and delivering the papers.”

Schaefer drops off newspapers year-round,

relying on nothing but his own two feet, come rain or shine. “We’re supposed to walk because, as a carrier, you have to deliver it to their front step,” he said.

However, dropping off papers isn’t the only joy Schaefer said he gets out of the job. He has even more fun meeting and connecting with the people he delivers to. “It’s a great way to get to know other people. I’ve actually gotten to do lawn work from meeting with them, because they need someone to mow their lawns and do other yard maintenance.

SEE CARRIER, PAGE 9

JEFF CARLSON | CONTRIBUTED

Jeff Carlson of Vadnais Heights has found a new form of help assisting him with his Type 1 diabetes: his service dog Leo.

ERIK SUCHY PRESS PUBLICATIONS Eli Schaefer

SEPTEMBER 28th, 2024 - 11:00 am Bald Eagle Ave - 3rd to 2nd St.

CITY

The city of White Bear Lake currently has 338 rental licenses. The chart shows the number of single-unit vs. multiunit rentals in each ward.

Gloria’s 13th Annual Food Shelf Shortest Marathon One Block Run

Gloria’s 12th Annual White Bear Lake Shortest Marathon One Block Run

Building activity returns to ‘more normal’ level

$35 (tax deductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your friends, to take it off your bucket list, and to aid a good cause.

Twice a year, Community Development Director Jason Lindahl presents an update on the department. His highlights from the first half of 2025 include:

compared to the first half of 2024; the total valuation of permits was down 78%, and total permit fees were down 62%.

SEPTEMBER 20, 2025 11:00AM

T-shirts, White Castles, water and other treats will be included for registered participants in the marathon.

Gloria’s 12th Annual White Bear Lake Shortest Marathon One Block Run

SEPTEMBER 28th, 2024 - 11:00 am

Bald Eagle Ave - 3rd to 2nd St.

BALD EAGLE AVE - 3rd St to 2nd St.

$35 (tax deductible) Gives

$40 (tax deductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your friends, to take it off your bucket list, and to aid a good cause.

$35

SEPTEMBER 28th, 2024 - 11:00 am Bald Eagle Ave - 3rd to 2nd St.

White Bear Area Food Shelf

T-shirts, White Castles, water and other treats will be included for registered participants in the marathon. Register

• While building and codeenforcement activity continues to decrease, planning activity is holding steady. The most notable decrease occurred in building permit activity. Although it decreased compared to recent years, data appear to show a return to a more normal level of activity after significant increases in 2021 and 2022.

• In White Bear Lake, the total number of permits was down 11%

CALENDAR BRIEF

• There were 172 code-enforcement cases. Of those, 52 were complaintbased; 120 were proactive cases initiated by city staff. The number of cases was down 44%: complaint-based cases were down 35.5%, and proactive cases were down 46.6%. Most of the decreases can be attributed to a significant reduction in the number of weed or long grass cases, which were down 94% compared to the first half of 2024.

• Currently, the city has 338 rental licenses (264 single dwelling and 74 multiunit dwellings).

VFW Post 1782 to host 9/11 ceremony

At 6 p.m. on Sept. 11, all are invited to gather at Veterans Park, adjacent to the VFW on Lake Avenue S., to pay respects to and honor those killed and wounded as a result of the 9/11 attacks in 2001. Speakers will include White Bear Lake Fire Department Chief Greg Peterson and VFW Post 1792 Senior Vice Commander Justin Frogner.

Following the ceremony, all are welcome at the VFW for camaraderie, cake, lemonade, tea and other beverages. After 30 minutes, there will be a toast to 9/11 victims and to veterans from all wars who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

To register contact: www.whitebearfoodshelf.org

WHAT’S HAPPENING

CONTRIBUTED

TASTE OF WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6

Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard, Dellwood

Details: Annual fundraiser for the White Bear Lake Rotary Club includes food and beverage samples from local establishments, live music, games and a silent auction.

Contact: tasteofwhitebearlake.com

SENIOR CENTER GRAND RE-OPENING CELEBRATION

When: 10 a.m.-noon Thursday, Sept. 4

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Visit the senior center and the see the new space. Coffee and Treats served. Contact: 651-653-3121 or communityservices.isd624. org/adults-seniors/programs

AUTHOR VISIT

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 5

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square

Details: William Kent Krueger will sign his 21st Cork O'Connor mystery, “Apostle's Cove”. Call to reserve a copy. Contact: 651-426-0918

CORNFEST

When: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6

Where: St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave.

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Healthy Aging Month observed in September

As more Americans reach older adulthood, the importance of supporting lifelong health and wellbeing continues to grow. Each September, Healthy Aging Month shines a spotlight on the opportunities that come with aging and recognizes the value of nurturing physical, emotional, social, financial and spiritual wellness at every stage.

Details: Bingo, raffles, food and drinks, kids activities and inflatables, bake sale, live music by The Rockin' Hollywoods. Contact: stjudeofthelake.org

PLAYING FOR THE KIDS PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT AND FAMILY PLAY DATE

When: 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7

Where: The Burrow, 7053 10th St. N., Oakdale Details: Beginner and pickleball tournament before and during the event celebrating 30 years of blessings at the Brydges Centre in Nairobi, Kenya. Also family activities and games. Contact: brydgescentre.org

MUSIC ON THE LAWN

When: 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7

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

Details: The Beatles Ensemble performs at the free concert series held on the first Sunday of the month during summer. Held indoors if rain. Contact: 651-429-9026 or wblumc.org

THE GARMS FAMILY IN CONCERT

When: 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7

Where: Lakewood Worship Center, 2080 Woodlyn Ave., Maplewood

Details: Family friendly concert – bring grandparents for “Grandparents Sunday.”

LAKE AVENUE WALKING TOUR

When: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10

Where: Lions Park, 4410 Lake Ave. S.

Details: Guided walking tours highlight the history of buildings, businesses and organizations that make the community unique. Registration required. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

NORTH SUBURBAN NEIGHBORS CLUB COFFEE AND CONVERSATION

When: 10 to 11:55 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025 Where: Shoreview Community Center, Fireside Lounge, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: Nonprofit friendship group for older women in the suburbs invites prospective members to learn about activities.

Contact: 612-616-6142 or 913-306-1122 (text messages only)

BALD EAGLE ART CRAWL

When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13

Where: Around Bald Eagle lake

Details: Self-guided tour around the lake with stops to purchase original artwork and crafts or listen to live music by more than 90 artists and musicians. Best enjoyed by bike or car and kid-friendly. Map online.

Contact: belarts.org

CHARANGA TROPICAL CONCERT

When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: Band brings sounds of Cuba to life with blend of violins, flute, vocals, and Latin rhythm. Ticket information online.

Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers.org

The University of Minnesota Extension Department of Family, Health and Wellbeing invites older adults and people who support them to visit z.umn.edu/ HAM2025 to access resources. Visitors can register for any of 16 webinars on topics such as: health care directives; aging in place; transferring nontitled property; medicine cabinet safety; the future of rural housing; clean energy as we age; reframing from ageism to age-friendly; healthy eating for older adults; and intergenerational transfers of wealth.

What does the start of fall mean to you?

Last September, when I was in the second year of my master’s program, one of my professors proposed an ice breaker question for the class on our first day. He asked us: “What does the start of fall mean to you?”

A lot of my classmates said it meant they could pull out their favorite sweater, drink pumpkin spiced lattes again and they knew it was time to start mentally preparing for the start of a new school year. I said that fall was a “reset” for me. The start of the school year symbolized the start of a new year. All the goals I had written down would have to be completed by next September. September was essentially my version of January.

Madeline’s Mail

Madeline Dolby

A majority of the goals I had set revolved around school. One of my goals was to complete my masters project, which I did. Another was to graduate, which I also accomplished. A third goal I had set out for myself to complete was to create new friendships with classmates, another thing I quite quickly accomplished.

While in some moments I didn’t think achieving my academic goals were possible, I knew I had various resources available to help me when I was struggling. Where I attended college, there was a writing center available to all students and faculty. If you were struggling with a paper, you could visit the writing center and speak to someone about it. They would help you brainstorm possible thesis statement ideas, help with the organization of your paper and even provide feedback on it. As a creative writing major, it was a very resourceful tool. I found myself visiting the center on multiple occasions throughout my time as an undergrad and graduate student. Another resource available at my fingertips were the multiple librarians on staff. When searching through thousands of scholarly articles got to be overwhelming, I had the ability to contact a librarian to help me narrow down my search. I sent them my research topic and what sources I had already found. In return, the librarian would send me research tips and tricks and possible sources I could look at. They also helped me gain a better understanding of the University’s library database catalog and how to navigate it.

As a student athlete, I was required to complete three hours of study hall per week to make sure I didn’t fall behind on homework and keep up with my academics. While it wasn’t my favorite thing to do, it helped me learn time management skills. In fact, attending study hall and spending all that time focused on my academics helped me raise my GPA from 3.5 to a 3.9 in only one semester.

As we head into a new school year, I highly encourage students to take advantage of the resources available to them. Whether that is going to an afterschool tutoring group once a week, going to a teacher’s office hours or even meeting with your dean to discuss your future, there are options far and wide that are there to help you academically thrive. I learned that school faculty love to help students in any way they can! It is what they are there for.

Madeline Dolby is editor of the Quad Community Press.

Elevating excellence, built on a foundation of trust

TMovers and Shakers

Wayne Kazmierczak

he start of a new school year always brings excitement and optimism, and this fall is no exception. Last week, more than 1,000 White Bear Lake Area Schools staff members came together for Convocation and kicked off the 2025-26 school year with a powerful theme: “Elevating Excellence, Built on a Foundation of Trust.” This theme captures our district’s journey and sets a clear vision for the years ahead.

The groundwork for this vision began in the summer of 2017 when community members helped create a long-range strategic plan that charted a bold path forward. This was reinforced in 2019, when residents overwhelmingly supported our historic bond referendum. This “Building Our Future” initiative was more than a financial commitment; it was a powerful statement of community confidence in a shared mission to prepare every student for success. White Bear Lake Area Schools has experienced a historic period of transformation, reshaping both our school

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facilities and the opportunities available to students. At the heart of this work has always been the deep connection established through positive student and family experiences.

The results are now visible across the district. This summer, projects at Mariner and Central Middle Schools were completed, and early next spring, the final piece of the facilities plan will wrap up when the Early Childhood and Transition Education Center spaces at Sunrise Park are complete, closing an important chapter in our district’s history. These modern learning spaces give students access to facilities that match the quality of instruction happening inside, providing environments designed to inspire collaboration, creativity, and achievement. These updates reflect more than bricks and mortar; they represent years of careful planning and a community’s commitment to giving students the very best opportunities.

With the physical blueprint of our facilities nearly complete, our focus is now on an even more exciting phase of using these spaces to further elevate academic excellence in teaching and learning. We remain committed to our top priority: to foster the rigorous instruction and deep student engagement that leads to significant academic

growth. We will also continue to nurture the skills, confidence, and well-being that prepares each student for success in life. In the year ahead, the district will continue to engage with families, residents, and partners to better understand their priorities for students, ensuring that our work remains closely aligned with community values.

Measuring progress in meaningful ways will also be essential. While traditional benchmarks remain important, White Bear Lake Area Schools is committed to using data intelligently and transparently to guide decisions and demonstrate results that reflect the broader impact of education.

Public education faces complex challenges, but we enter this school year well-prepared and well-supported. Because of our community's confidence and investment, our district is positioned not just to respond to challenges but to set the bar for excellence.

As the 2025-26 school year begins, there is much to celebrate: years of progress, facilities designed for the future, and a community united around student success. Together, we will continue elevating excellence, built on a foundation of trust.

Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak Superintendent, White Bear Lake Area Schools

HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters.

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

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

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

• All letters are subject to editing.

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

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

BEAR/VADNAIS

Keep national politics out of local paper

We all have plenty of resources for hearing and reading national news and all the vitriol that goes along with opinions about our current politics. Our opportunities to read about and comment on local news are far more rare, which is why White Bear Press is so valuable. I enjoy reading my neighbors’ opinions on local park projects, the latest City Council actions, or a new business downtown. Less enjoyable are letters like David Knight's letters of July 30 and Aug. 13, which simply revel in the name-calling and demonization that is poisoning our national discourse. Mr. Knight is clearly defensive about criticisms of Donald Trump. It’s unfortunate that he can’t express his opinions without resorting to the same kinds of cruel barbs and demonization he’s complaining about. Using terms like “Trump derangement syndrome” and “Creepy Joe Biden” and characterizing people he doesn’t agree with as “dull-witted,” “vapid” and “lost” doesn’t advance civil discourse. This insult-laden, hyper-partisan (on both sides) discourse on national topics is everpresent on our phones, our televisions, our radios, our computer screens. Does it also need to poison our local paper?

Lisa Brock White Bear Lake

Language doesn't move us forward

Joey Marek, in an Aug. 20 letter to the editor, rightly called out the derisive language David Knight spews. It is the language of “interposition and nullification.” It does not help to move us forward by confronting challenges and providing a basis that allows people to see a peaceful future for themselves and their communities.

Instead, the letter writer prefers anarchy right: cuts to Medicaid, Affordable Care, medical research, climate research, economic research, national health, national parks, and law enforcement—to mention just a few—while at the same time giving the rich tax breaks and increasing the national debt. The anarchy right mocks our legal system and causes unrest in our communities because of unlawful ICE arrests. The anarchy right has failed to bring prices down. They are going up because of unfair tariffs. The government may be getting richer, but there are no plans for what that money will do to make this a livable country. Trump’s infatuation with Putin makes it unlikely the Ukraine War will end with a good outcome for Ukraine—They are old buddies. How can peace talks commence without a ceasefire? How does Knight not see the genocide of the Palestinians? They are a people occupied by both Hamas and Israel. How does Knight not see all the suffering that Trump has set in motion by getting cozy with tyrants? How do we proceed with made-up statistics?

All this is in the news, David Knight, but you present no insight into these issues and how they harm our security and the security of the world. Trump enriches himself with medallions, cryptocurrency, and Trumpian trinkets. Who would have conceived of a President of the United States selling perfume out of the Oval Office? He has generated billions through those enterprises; however, with all that wealth, has he fulfilled the obligation to pay the court-awarded millions owed to E. Jean Carroll?

Mr. Knight needs to see more deeply into the devastation Trump has delivered before he asks for a fair conversation. He needs to show a path forward that includes solutions to our problems and opportunities.

Don Wendel White Bear Township

Proposed post office relocation

Did you know the U.S. Postal Service is proposing to relocate the White Bear Lake Branch

at 2223 Fifth Street to a site within two miles from its current location?

We received a postcard on Aug. 18, inviting us to send our comments within the next 45 days. The US Postal Service is asking for feedback on a proposal that is unknown and does not provide any background on the current facility. It states the new site would have about 3,100 SF and 20+ parking spaces and keep carriers in the current facility.

We have questions needing answers about relocating the White Bear Lake Branch.

1. What exactly is being proposed to be moved?

2. What space deficiency is causing the need for relocation?

3. Is it necessary to have 20+ parking spaces? Current site has 20 parking spaces.

4. Current location is very accessible to pedestrians. Would this be possible when it is two miles away?

5. Where is the proposed relocation site?

6. What would happen to the current site?

7. What does the White Bear City Council know and think about this proposal?

Today more mail is being handled electronically. Non-electronic mail volume is trending downward. Is it necessary to relocate the White Bear Branch from the downtown location? Residents and businesses like the current location and prefer going to this site within the downtown area. Contributing to the small-town atmosphere of White Bear Lake is having a full-service postal office in the downtown area. It is a walking destination for many who live near downtown. We prefer the White Bear Lake Branch be maintained in its current location!

Linda and Darwin Demeny White Bear Lake

Don't need another trail

The article published in the Vadnais Heights Press on Aug. 27 regarding Greenhaven Drive improvements downplayed the feelings of the audience. There were around 50 of us who attended the meeting at Vadnais Heights Commons on Aug. 7. While nobody in attendance appeared to have any problem with the proposed infrastructure upgrades, the same can’t be said for the trail “improvement”. After seeing and hearing a presentation from Vadnais Heights employees, the presenter asked us to raise our hands if we were for the project. Around 10 hands went up. When asked who was against the project, around 40 hands went up. This same issue was raised by Vadnais Heights personnel back in the early 90’s. Happily, it was shot down. Changes were made to striping on the street instead, with parking allowed only on one side of the street. The article from the Aug. 27 edition did try to put forth both sides of the issue, but it downplayed the impact for those of us negatively affected by this. It also ignored the world today. These days, delivery vans outnumber buses, garbage trucks, and maintenance vehicles by a long shot. During the average day there aren’t that many folks out for a stroll. People out walking a dog or two may also meet up with someone coming up with a dog (or dogs) that aren’t well behaved, leading to potential mayhem. As far as bikers go, I see more bikers ignoring paths than using them during my travels. I suspect that those in the racing crowd will stick to the street and potentially increase accidents with this change. Vadnais Heights has done a great job of raising taxes over the past years. The last thing we need is yet another trail that needs to be maintained year-round to boost up our taxes even more.

Jeff Peterson Vadnais Heights

Lessons in history

If he acts like a dictator, talks like a dictator, and lays out red carpets for a dictator, then he must want to be a dictator.

Trump is a temporary resident of the White House and leads just one branch of government. Yet he sees himself as a King.

The Supreme Court granted him full immunity and free rein to do, literally, anything he wants. Theoretically, he now COULD stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody with no repercussions.

Congress does what Trump commands. As a Texas legislator noted, “If Trump says ‘Jump 3 feet high and scratch your head’, we all jump 3 feet high and scratch our head.”

He sues media for unflattering stories and excludes them for failing to use his preferred geographic language. The president, for the first time in history, took control of who is allowed in the White House Press Pool.

He wants to take over Canada, Greenland, the Panama Canal, several US cities, and turn Gaza into a Trump-owned resort.

Despite blasting Biden’s use of Executive Orders as un-American and anti-democratic, he issued 196 in his 8 months. Biden issued 160 in 4 years.

He pardoned each person convicted of assault on Jan 6, including those who viciously wounded police officers. He fired two dozen prosecutors assigned to hold those felons accountable.

He admires and praises tyrants like Putin and Kim Jong Un. Trump forced U.S. troops to kneel and roll out a red carpet for Putin. Three days later European Union leaders visited. No red carpet for them.

From George Orwell’s “1984”: “Every record has been destroyed or falsified, every book has been rewritten…every statue and street and building has been renamed….And that process is continuing day by day….History has stopped." Trump is literally doing this to us.

He spouts crude insults at anyone who doesn’t bow to him. He has no values, ethics or morals. It is baffling how anyone who knows U.S. history can support this wanna-be dictator. MAGAs will dismiss this as TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome). Good thing Patriots like Sam Adams and Paul Revere didn’t listen when many colonists dismissed their call to revolution as KGDS (King George Derangement Syndrome).

Send letter to US Post Office

When we received the notice from the United States Postal Service mailed from Greensboro, North Carolina we thought that people this far away from us would have little sense of the ethos of White Bear Lake. It is clear that people who live and work here are passionate about White

George Kimball White Bear Lake

COPS&COURTS

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

Officers responded to a civil dispute over a vehicle in the 1900 block of Garden Lane Aug. 20.

• Fraud was reported in the 1200 block of Goose Lake Road Aug. 20.

• Officers responded to a group of juveniles digging up grass in the 3700 block of Bellaire Avenue Aug. 20, and advised them to stop.

• Officers responded to a disorderly juvenile in the 1400 block of Park Street Aug. 20.

• Disorderly conduct was reported Aug. 20 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested Aug. 21 for a domestic assault no contact order violation and other Ramsey County warrants in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N.

• Theft by swindle was reported in the 3600 block of Glen Oaks Court Aug. 21.

• Fraud was reported in the 3400 block of McKnight Road Aug. 21.

Two females were trespassed from a business in the 900 block of Wildwood Road Aug. 21.

• Officers mediated a domestic situation in the 1800 block of Webber Street Aug. 21.

• A Stillwater man was arrested for DWI in the 4800 block of Highway 61 Aug. 22.

• A Minneapolis man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near the intersection County Road D and White Bear Avenue Aug. 22.

• A vehicle reported stolen in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road and was later recovered Aug. 22.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1900 block of Third Street Aug. 22.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 1500 block of Pine Pointe Aug. 22.

• Officers investigated a domestic situation Aug. 22 in the 4700 block of Bald Eagle Avenue.

• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive Aug. 22. A Lakeville woman was taken into custody for a felony probation violation warrant after her vehicle was identified in the 3100 block of Century Avenue Aug. 22.

• Officers responded to a barking dog complaint in the 1800 block of Third Street Aug. 22, and advised the owners.

Officers assisted another agency in taking a carjacking suspect into custody near the 2400 block of Beam Avenue Aug. 23. A firearm was also located.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 3500 block of Glen Oaks Avenue Aug. 23.

• Automotive tools were reported stolen in a burglary at a business in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road Aug. 23.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the area of Murray Avenue and Fourth Street Aug. 23.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for

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

Birchwood Village

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies spent two evenings sending juveniles home from the park on Lake Avenue after hours, first at 3:08 a.m. July 6, then at 11:22 p.m. July 10.

Dellwood

• An out-of-control toddler was reported July 10 for running into the street on Dellwood Avenue. When deputies arrived on scene, a parent had corralled the toddler and was heading home. Grant

• Residents in the 7000 block of Jocelyn Road N. on July 6 reported a bear on their property.

• Deputies were dispatched regarding a burning complaint in the 10000 block of Jody Avenue at 9:24 a.m. July 12. Deputies checked the area and found no fires. However, after they could still smell smoke and observe a general pall in the atmosphere, deputies concluded that the poor air quality all over was due to the Canadian wildfires.

Mahtomedi

• A motorist on I-694 and Century Avenue was cited July 6 for failure to provide proof of insurance and for tabs that expired in September, following a traffic stop.

domestic assault in the 1900 block of Campbell Circle Aug. 23.

• A driver was cited for driving after revocation following a collision at the intersection of Centerville Road and Highway 96 Aug. 23.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 2300 block of South Shore Boulevard. Aug. 24.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 1200 block of Goose Lake Road Aug. 24.

• Burglary was reported Aug. 24 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue.

• A male entered a business in the 1300 block of Highway 96 Aug. 24 and attempted to steal football jerseys. He ran and was not located by officers.

• Officers responded to a disturbance in the 2000 block of Dotte Drive Aug. 24.

• Graffiti was found near the 1800 block of Florence Street Aug. 24.

• A St. Paul man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop in the 2500 block of McKnight Road Aug. 25.

An unlocked car with a key left inside was stolen on Fifth Street Aug. 25.

• A Washington Square business reported several counterfeit/forged checks posted to their bank account Aug. 25.

• An unlocked car was rummaged through on Fifth Street overnight Aug. 25.

Narcotics were reported in the 1800 block of Webber Street Aug. 25.

• A dog was abandoned by it owners at a park on McKnight Road and brought to the Woodbury Humane Society Aug. 25.

• Officers responded to theft in the 3200 block of McKnight Road N. Aug. 25.

• Disorderly conduct was reported at a business in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Aug. 25.

• An Eagan driver was arrested on a warrant following a traffic stop for speeding in the 2200 block of County Road E Aug. 25.

A Maplewood man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near the intersection of Lydia Avenue and White Bear Avenue Aug. 26.

• A White Bear Lake woman was cited for disorderly conduct after officers responded to the 2400 block of Elm Drive for a 911 hang up.

• A woman was booked for felony domestic assault in the 2100 block of Roth Place Aug. 26.

• A Hugo man was arrested for DWI after officers investigated a disorderly conduct complaint in the 2100 block of Fifth Street Aug. 26.

• An employee was trespassed from a business in the 2700 block of County Road E after causing a disturbance Aug. 26.

• Officers took a report Aug. 26 of an ongoing disturbance between neighbors in the 3100 block of Manitou Drive.

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 resident in the 1100 block of County Road D reported two packages stolen from her front step on July 22.

• A resident in the 1200 block of County Road D Circle E on July 24 reported his wallet stolen from his bedroom by someone he knew.

• A White Bear Lake man, 36, was arrested on an active warrant at 1:35 a.m. July 24 in the 1000 block of County Road E, after customers and staff of the Holiday gas station reported him for acting oddly and making them uncomfortable.

• In the Case of the Overheated Opossum, an opossum was trespassed off a property in the 500 block of Carol Drive after it was found swimming in the complainant’s pool during the July 24 heat wave without receiving an invitation.

• A resident in the 90 block of Bridgewater Drive on July 24 reported being scammed out of thousands of dollars by someone who called her and said she owed money for missing a court appearance.

• A Minneapolis man, 42, a Maplewood woman, 65, and a St. Paul man, 75, were arrested and issued a trespass notice from Famous Footwear in the 900 block of County Road E July 24, after they were caught stealing merchandise from the store. Their cases have been forwarded to the county attorney to consider charges.

• A resident in the 3100 block of Frattalone Road reported a package containing items worth more than $50 stolen from her front porch on July 25.

• A Shoreview man reported a backpack containing his personal items stolen from his vehicle July 25, while it was parked in the 4300 block of Buckingham Court.

• A catalytic converter was reported stolen July 25 from a Toyota Tundra pickup truck parked in the 600 block of Stockdale Road.

White Bear Township

• A resident in the 1400 block of Brandlewood Road on July 22 reported her vehicle broken into while it was parked at Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis. Her wallet containing credit cards and other personal items were stolen, and the credit cards used to make fraudulent transactions.

• A St. Paul woman, 29, was arrested for theft July 22 after Cub Foods employees in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive caught her stealing watermelon, baby pacifiers and other merchandise.

• A St. Paul man, 50, and a St. Paul woman, 49, were cited July 25 at the same Cub Foods store, after employees saw them steal merchandise.

Loretta Harding

• Catalytic converter thefts are back in the news after a Wildwood Road resident reported one stolen July 7. Deputies received a noise complaint at 2:41 a.m. July 7 from Wildwood Road, but didn’t observe any excessive noise coming from the apartment in question. However, they did talk to the residents, who were still up, and advised them to be conscious of walking around loudly. Deputies expecting the stomping around in the middle of the night to end received another complaint at 3:07 that same night from the stompers reporting the original complainant for making harassing phone calls. The thumping and jumping wars raged on as the upstairs neighbor reported the downstairs neighbor for knocking aggressively at her door and yelling at her because her child was jumping up and down in their apartment. Deputies advised both parties to seek a Harassment Restraining Order if they were unable to resolve the issue.

• At 9:54 p.m. July 8 deputies conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Wildwood Road and Stillwater Road on a vehicle related to a sex trafficking case and arrested the driver. The juvenile passenger was returned home, and the vehicle was forfeited and towed to the county law enforcement center.

• After an assault was reported July 11 on Quail Street, deputies cited the aggressor.

Pine Springs

• A trailer was reported stolen July 7 in the 6000 block of Hytrail Avenue N.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited July 8 on westbound Highway 36 for speeding 72 mph in a 60-mph zone by deputies. The driver said he was running late to deliver a product to a customer.

• A second motorist was cited July 8 on westbound Highway 36 and I-694 for speeding 76 mph in a 60mph zone by deputies. The driver said that when he saw deputies, he slowed to 63 mph.

• A third motorist was cited July 8 on Highway 36 for speeding 72 mph in a 60-mph zone after deputies observed her in the left lane passing vehicles in the right lane at a high rate of speed and clocked her on radar at 853 feet. The driver said she was not from this area.

• A fourth motorist cited for speeding July 8 on Highway 36 said he was running late to pick up a client at the airport. The driver would be even later due to the time taken up for the traffic stop and for having to continue to the airport at the speed limit of 60 mph instead of 75 mph.

• A fifth motorist on westbound Highway 36 was cited for speeding 74 mph in a 60-mph zone July 8. The driver said she had allergies and was rubbing her eyes, so she didn’t realize how fast she was driving.

• A sixth motorist was cited July 8 on westbound Highway 36 and I-694 for speeding 72 mph in a 60-mph zone. This driver said he was running late between appointments.

Loretta Harding

Bear Lake remaining a distinctive town of its own… not a place on a city bus line and with people who engage in huge efforts to save trees to preserve the unique downtown vibe. We are attaching a letter that we will mail to the United States Postal Service and wonder if it might be appropriate to publish it in the Press. Perhaps this could encourage more people to send a letter. The United States Postal Service would likely receive many more responses if they had included an email address.

“Dear US Post Office Planners, You are asking for comments regarding the proposed relocation of U.S Postal Service, St. Paul, MN White Bear Lake Branch. This is an easy answer…. The White Bear Lake, Minnesota U.S. Post Office is perfectly located now! It is situated in the downtown area of White Bear Lake. This location provides easy and familiar access for everyone who lives or works in the White Bear Lake area. When people go to town for any reason they are easily able to use the services of the U.S. Post Office. There is no other location that could be as convenient for the people who live in the surrounding area. It is a natural meeting place for neighbors and businesses across a wide region. We believe it is in your best interest and the interest of the people in the White Bear Lake area to continue to offer full services at the White Bear lake branch.

Thank you for listening to us. We hope you will decide to keep the St. Paul White Bear Lake Branch Post Office where it is perfectly situated.”

Stanley and Jeannette Bakke White Bear Lake

All are worthy of respect

Jürgen Moltmann, in his lectures on “The Reformation’s Theological Foundations of Christian Social Ethics”, stated that the primary tool in the scholar’s (perhaps also neighbor’s, colleague’s or fellow citizen’s) kit is the question.

Similarly, the Socratic method employs the question (perhaps questioning is a better word), in order that some form of clarity can be achieved between two parties engaged respectfully in question/answer dialogue.

By contrast, our present “discussion” too often involves hurling harsh epithets toward those with whom we disagree, shibboleths (tribal identifiers) which amount to no more than playground taunts possessing at best the depth and clarity of a mud puddle. And maybe revealing a need for further growth.

When I was young, the little that I knew was a lot. So many years later, the lot that I know is a little. While my growth in knowledge has been arithmetic, my growth in ignorance has been exponential. The Creation has gotten bigger, I, in contrast, significantly smaller. Too often I’ve had to agree with Job (“I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me which I did not know.”).

Further, each person we encounter is made in the image of God, having been knit together in his mother’s womb, and is on that basis alone worthy of respect. One of the cultural lessons of my time in Germany was that whosoever called someone a fool was himself the fool.

I’m thankful that the One who created us in His image is a lover of mercy. May we challenge ourselves to learn well, as well.

Stop publishing letters

This is a respectful request to stop the continual publication of letters from David Knight. In recent weeks we have been treated to Mr. Knight's rants against people with whom he disagrees. If he were to suggest an actual topic of debate or dialigue, that would be one thing. But, he seems to relish the platform he has been given and uses it to insult and name call. While this might be the Press' attempt at fair and balanced letters, it is now over the top and does not reflect high

White Bear Lake Area

standards of journalism. Please do better and find a way to include differing viewpoints without lowering standards and giving a voice to a cranky individual so frequently. Thank you.

Brenda Sussna White Bear Lake

Is this today's conservatism?

I agree wholeheartedly with David Knight's encouragement for citizens to read more books (and I would add well-researched journal articles) for a better understanding of political philosophy, history and current events. Reading a variety of authors provides greater perspective rather than limiting yourself to a particular line of thinking. Readers can then compare what they are reading to the current situation and make informed judgments about policy and leadership. I wonder how William F. Buckley Jr. would judge President Trump's policies on federal troops in US cities and US government ownership of corporations like Intel, forced subservience of museums, libraries, universities and corporations. Based on my readings, it seems unlikely that Buckley would favor any of this concentration and use of presidential power, especially in light of Trump's push for federal ownership of the means of production (very Communist Chinalike) and control of thought (universities, libraries and museums). Not to mention Trump's masked federal agents (supposedly for their protection, but can anyone point to federal agents actually harmed) asking people to produce their papers while walking down the street. Is this today's conservatism? I fear that many conservatives may feel that they have boarded an out of control political freight train and are still coming to grips with the direction and speed away from traditional conservative thinking around limited government, balanced budgets, local control, states' rights and freedom. What would Buckley think of President Trump?

Church Directory

Sept 7: Man Sept 14: Substance Sept 21: Matter Sept 28: Reality

christiansciencewbl.com

James Nash White Bear Lake

Bill Coleman Mahtomedi

• Mike Belz, owner of 4548 Highway 61, has been granted four setback variances to allow for construction of an attached garage, home addition and deck. He requested the first two — a 13.6-foot variance from the 20-foot streetside setback and a 1.7-foot variance from the 5-foot side yard setback — to build an attached garage on the street side of the home. He requested the other two — a 10.1foot variance from the 15-foot side yard setback and a 4-foot variance from the 15-foot setback —to build an addition and deck on the lake side of the property.

City staff and the Planning Commission found that Belz demonstrated the practical difficulty necessary in meeting zoning regulations and recommended approval of the variances. (Under the new code, which has been approved by the council, but not yet codified, the three side yard variances would not be required. The new code would allow the property to have a 3-foot side yard setback by right, as long as the two side yard setbacks together total 10 feet.)

• Steve Boleen, owner of Carbone’s Pizzeria & Pub, has been granted a single-event extension for an on-sale liquor license to host an outdoor event Saturday, Sept. 6. The event will include liquor service and music.

• The city, as it has since 1983, will participate in the Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization, after the council approved a joint powers agreement. The agreement has been amended and renewed since its original adoption, with the current agreement set to expire in December 2026. The update incorporates the watershed district’s longstanding practices and procedures and recognizes that the stormwater utility fee is the district’s primary source of funding.

• Patrick Walsh is requesting an extension of two setback variances for his property on Central Avenue, a vacant parcel located on the northwest corner of Central Avenue and Fifth Street. In August 2024, the council approved two setback variances — a 20-foot variance from the required 30-foot rear yard setback for the home, to be located 10 feet from the rear property line, and an

The White Bear Lake City Council recognizes Dale Grambush for 22 years of service to the city’s charter commission. The city of White Bear Lake is one of 107 in the state that operates under a charter. Assistant City Manager Rick Juba said Grambush’s “acute attention to detail” has been an incredible asset to the commission.

8-foot variance from the required 25-foot setback for a side yard abutting a public right of way — to construct a porch 17 feet from the property line on Fifth Street.

City code states a variance becomes null and void if the project has not been completed or utilized within one calendar year after the approval date. Walsh requested a 60-day extension of the variance approvals, as he finalizes the building construction plans and prepares to submit them for a building permit. City staff recommended a 180-day extension, to which the council agreed.

• Residents who live within the 2025 pavement rehabilitation project area may want to attend an assessment hearing, which has been scheduled

for the Sept. 23 council meeting. The project includes Division Avenue (between Fifth Street and northern city limits) and Twelfth Street (between Division Avenue and Long Avenue). The total estimated project cost is $1,296,608. The city is estimated to pay $1,001,742, while the cost to be assessed against benefiting property owners is $294,865.

Assessments will be payable in annual installments extending over 15 years for residential properties and 20 years for apartments and commercial properties. The first installment will be payable with the 2026 property taxes at an interest rate of 5.71%. Property owners may pay all or a portion of their assessment, without accruing interest, within 30 days of the council adopting the assessment roll. After that, assessments will be certified to Ramsey County and added to property tax bills.

• The city will enter into an agreement with 1st Select to provide property management services for Pioneer Manor. Vivie, the current management company, has given a 90-day notice terminating its services effective Oct. 1. The initial two-year contract term with 1st Select covers general oversight of the building’s daily operations, including leasing vacant units, coordinating apartment turnovers, collecting rent, coordinating resident activities, responding to resident concerns, responding to maintenance requests, updating policies and procedures, and coordinating third-party vendor services.

The agreement calls for a management fee of 5% of the collected gross receipts, plus labor costs for on-site staff to include a part-time property manager and maintenance technician as well as property management software. Staffing, level of services and costs are similar to the current arrangement, according to Housing and Economic Development Coordinator Tracy Shimek.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

SHANNON GRANHOLM PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Press hosts Senior Health Fair Carter, Anderson named to Bears Hall of Fame

could have on Marketfest; and whether city staff have the time and resources to manage it.

“I urge the City Council to consider the overall vision for downtown and our community,” Crawford said. In its letter, Mainstreet indicated it does not intend to assume a management role for the social district, but it would remain committed to supporting the city’s efforts.

Mayor Dan Louismet said his “knee-jerk” reaction was “extreme skepticism” that a social district would be a good idea. “These things have a way of spiraling out of control. I don’t want Marketfest to be a drinking scene. It is a family-friendly scene,” he said. “So whatever incremental increase in commerce that it generates, I think we more than lose by changing the character of what our family-friendly downtown is like.”

Louismet added he would be open to staff reaching out to colleagues from other cities to find out how social districts are going for them.

Council Member Heidi Hughes questioned the roles of Mainstreet and city staff in such a project. “It wasn’t too long ago that we were talking about where city staff should be putting their time and effort, and how that is going to fit into the budget,” she said. “If Mainstreet wants to have a social district, which benefits Mainstreet and not all of the city, then they can

investigate further, they can go to all the other places and see how it is falling out … Our city staff can wait and take that information from them when they have completed it.”

Council Member Kevin Edberg asked if Mainstreet had provided any details about what hours or days the district would operate. Crawford noted the city had not had any discussions about that yet. She added she would not support a district enacted during Marketfest.

“I don’t want to be the second, third, fourth or fifth [social district],” Edberg said. “We can watch what happens in other places. We can observe, learn. It is not a priority for how I think our city should use staff time.” He added that he liked Hughes’ suggestion.

Louismet said Mainstreet was free to follow Hughes’ advice and do some research. “There is a big step that has to happen before we even look into it further,” he said.

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

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

Former NHL player Ryan Carter and former college basketball star Leigh Anderson were introduced as new members of the White Bear Lake Athletics Hall of Fame at the Bears football opener Thursday evening.

Carter, a 2002 graduate, was a Mr. Hockey finalist with the Bears and twice an all-state pick while also making all-conference five times in track- and-field. After two years with MinnesotaMankato, Carter had a 10-year career as a center in the NHL with the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Panthers, New Jersey Devils and Minnesota Wild. He was a Stanley Cup champion with Anaheim in 2007. Currently he is a member of the Wild’s broadcast team.

Anderson, a 1987 graduate, was all-conference twice in basketball for the Bears and ran at the state track meet twice with the 4x800 relay. At Wisconsin-River Falls, she made all-conference three times, played in two NCAA Division III tournaments, and set team records for assists in a season and career. She went into teaching in her home town, got a Fox News 9 Top Teacher Award, published several books on wellness, character and team-building, and is active in community service.

Bruce Strand

CARRIER:

‘Just do ‘it’

Did you know?

That’s been pretty awesome,” he said. That number of connections, according to Schaefer, currently sits at around a dozen.

Looking ahead, Schaefer says he already has one college in mind: Northwestern University, located near the heart of St. Paul. Though he hasn’t picked a degree, he says his siblings are a big reason for choosing the university.

• National Newspaper Carrier Day will be Thursday, Sept. 4.

• Press Publications has approximately 80 carriers ages 10 and up.

• If you’re interested in becoming a carrier, call our circulation department at 651-407-1246 or visit our office in White Bear Lake.

For those interested in becoming a carrier, Schaefer said it’s easy to do. “It’s not super time-consuming,” he said. “You kind of just do it.”

September 2 - 7 Louisville Bats September 9 - 14 Columbus Clippers

PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM AND MARY PETERSON PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Press Publications hosted its annual Senior Health Fair at the former senior center Aug. 27.

Sundays Acoustic Sundays 1p – 4p

Dragonfly Winery

Fridays Friday Getaways All Day Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Sundays YOGA in the VINES 10a-11A Saint Croix Vineyards

Sundays Live Music 3p – 6p

Tuesdays Yoga Class 6p-7p

Tuesdays Rotating Trivia & Bingo 6:30

Rustic Roots Winery

Wednesdays Keychain Kash All Day Big Wood Brewery

Wednesdays Meading of the Mind 7p-9p White Bear Meadery

Sept 2 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p

Sept 3 Music: Mike Bustin 5p-8p

Sept 3 Cribbage Tournament 6p

Sept 4, 5 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p

Sept 4 Wedding Open House 4p-8p

Sept 4 Trivia Night 6:30p-8p

Sept 4 Music: Sten Carlson 5p-8p

Sept 4

Soccer Shots 5p – 7p

Sept 5 Family Night 5p-8p

Sept 5 Soccer Shots 5p-8p

Sept 6 Grape Stomp!

Sept 6 Morbid Makers Market 12p

Sept 6 5th year Anniversary Celebration

Sept 6,7 Tour and Tasting 12p-2p

Sept 7 Grape Stomp!

Sept 7 Music: Michael August 2p-5p

Sept 9 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8-p

Sept 10, 11, 12 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p

Sept 10

Music: Jennife Grimm/Joe Cruz 5:30-8p

Sept 11 Cigars N Suds 6p – 9p

Sept 11

Music: Noah Burnett 5p-8p

Soccer Shots 5p-7p

7 Vines Vineyard

Rustic Roots Winery

Belle Ame Vineyard

Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Belle Ame Vineyard

Saint Croix Vineyards

White Bear Meadery

Rustic Roots Winery

Saint Croix Vineyards

7 Vines Vineyard

Belle Ame Vineyard

7 Vines Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 12

Soccer Shots 5p-7p

Sept 13 High & Mighty 6p-9p

Belle Ame Vineyard

Big Wood Brewery

Sept 13 Tour and Tasting 12p-2p Rustic Roots Winery

Sept 14 Vine & Vinyasa 9a-10a

Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 14 Candle Making Experience 2p Saint Croix Vineyards

Sept 14 Music: Josh Quinn/Rose Duffery 2p-5p

Sept 14 Fall Carnival 11a-4p

Sept 16

Sept 17

Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p

Music: Tim Cheesebrow 5p-8p

Volunteer Harvest Pick 8a-12p

Sept17,18 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p

Sept 18 Volunteer Harvest Pick 8a-12

7 Vines Vineyard

Belle Ame Vineyard

7 Vines Vineyard

Belle Ame Vineyard

7 Vines Vineyard

Sept 18 Trivia Night 6:30p-8p Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Sept 18 Music: Sten Carlson 5p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 18 Board & Brush 6p-8:30p Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 18 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 19 Art at the Winery 6p-8:30p Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Sept 20,21 Grape Stomp Festival All Day Dancing Dragonfly Winery

Sept 21 Music: Gary LaRue 2p-5p 7 Vines Vineyard

Sept 21 Wine and Canvas Painting Party 11a-1p Saint Croix Vineyards

Sept 23 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p 7 Vines Vineyard

Sept 24 Music: Becky Rae 5p-8p

7 Vines Vineyard

Sept 24,25 You Pick at the Vineyard 2p-5p Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 25 Music: Sarah VanValkenburg 5p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 25 Puzzle Night 6p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard

Sept 25 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Bella Ame Vineyard

Sept 26 & 27 Oktimberfest 12p- 11:55p Big Wood Brewery

Sept 28 Oktimberfest 10a-8p Big Wood Brewery

Sept 28 Sourdough for beginners 11a-1p Saint Croix Vineyards

Sept 28 Mandala Art Paint & Sip 3p-5p Saint Croix Vineyards

Sept 28 Yoga Retreat 9a-3p Bella Ame Vineyard

Sept 28 Music: Steve Poynter 2p-5p

7 Vines Vineyard

Sept 30 Music: Mark Stary 5p-8p 7 Vines Vineyard

Auto repair owner loses cancer battle

BY TYLER QUATTRIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Daniel Bondeson, owner of East Shore Auto Repair on Stillwater Road in Mahtomedi, died July 1 at 64 after melanoma spread to his brain.

The shop’s sole owner and employee, Bondeson was diagnosed in February but continued working until the day before he entered the hospital.

“That’s kind of who he was,” his daughter, Nicol Bondeson, said. “As much as we told him to rest, he couldn’t. He didn’t want to.”

A 1978 graduate of Mahtomedi High School, Daniel Bondeson began working as a mechanic soon after graduation and later attended trade school, Nicol Bondeson said. He operated a shop in Maplewood before buying East Shore Auto about 13 years ago.

At his funeral service, Nicol Bondeson compared her father's shop to a barber shop in movies. “People would come in to just chat and talk, and sometimes they were there more than their cars,” she said.

She added that her father was someone who could be intimidating at first, but people often warmed up to him.

Today, a sign taped to the closed shop’s door shares the family’s appreciation: “It has been an honor to serve you, and we are truly thankful for your loyalty. It has meant the world for our family. We

couldn't have come this far without customers like you.”

The building is listed with a broker, and the family hopes a buyer will continue to use the space as an auto shop, Nicol Bondeson said.

Tyler Quattrin is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

3 REASONS NOT TO GO TO THE DENTIST! (AND 3 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD!)

FEAR

“The staff are all amazing, caring, and compassionate people. Dr. Anderson is one of the best pain-free, accommodating dentist I have ever had, and I am no spring chicken! I have found my forever dentist.” T.G

FEAR

COST

“Everyone at White Bear Smiles is fantastic! Both dentists really know their stuff, so you can’t go wrong seeing Dr. Swift or Dr. Anderson. They also have an excellent membership

so it’s easy

“Everyone at White Bear Smiles is fantastic! Both dentists really know their stuff, so you can’t go wrong seeing Dr. Swift or Dr. Anderson. They also have an excellent membership program available for people that don’t have dental insurance, so it’s easy to get your teeth taken care of without breaking the bank!”

get your teeth taken care of without breaking the bank!” L.R

PAIN

“Amazing dental hygienists, and great dentists! I needed a wisdom tooth removed and multiple fillings. The staff worked well together, and it was completely painless. Definitely cured my dental anxiety!” Dan

CONTRIBUTED

Daniel Bondeson passed away in July after a battle with cancer.

RATE INCREASE NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS FOR XCEL ENERGY MINNESOTA CUSTOMERS

Xcel Energy has asked the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to approve an increase to electric rates over a two-year period beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The requested increase for 2025 is approximately 9.6 percent or $353.3 million. Xcel Energy requested an additional 3.6 percent or $137.5 million for 2026. On average, the proposed final rate change would increase the bill for a typical residential electric customer by $13.79 per month.

The MPUC may either approve, deny, or modify the requested changes, including approving a lesser or greater increase than was requested for any customer class or classes of service.

The MPUC will likely make its decision on our rate request in the third quarter of 2026. If final rates are lower than interim (temporary) rates, we will refund customers the difference with interest. If final rates are higher than interim rates, we will not charge customers the difference.

If you move before a refund is issued and we cannot find you, your refund may be treated as abandoned property and sent to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Unclaimed Property Unit. You can check for unclaimed property at www.missingmoney.com. To make sure we can send you any refund owed, please provide a forwarding address when you stop service.

Public Hearings

Administrative Law Judge Joseph C. Meyer will hold seven in-person public hearings and two virtual public hearings so that customers have an opportunity to comment on our request. Any Xcel Energy customer or other person may attend or provide comments at the hearings. You are invited to comment on the adequacy and quality of Xcel Energy’s service, the level of rates, or other related matters. You do not need to be represented by an attorney. The hearings will begin at their scheduled time and adjourn after everyone present has had an opportunity to comment or ask questions.

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULE

Date Time Location

Monday, September 15, 2025 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 11:30 a.m.

Washington County Heritage Center

Education Center

1862 Greeley Street S Stillwater, MN 55082

St. Cloud Public Library

Mississippi Room 106 1300 W. St. Germain Street St. Cloud, MN 56301

Tuesday, September 16, 2025 6:30 p.m. Virtual WebEx (see access details)

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 1:30 p.m.

Monday, September 22, 2025 6:30 p.m.

Battle Creek Recreational Center Large Meeting Room 75 Winthrop Street S St. Paul, MN 55119

Buckham West Senior Center Anderson Room 19 Division Street W Faribault, MN 55021

Tuesday, September 23, 2025 1:30 p.m. Virtual WebEx (see access details)

Tuesday, September 23, 2025 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 25, 2025 1:30 p.m.

Edina Library 5280 Grandview Square Edina, MN 55436

V-3 Center

Wet Classroom

701 Plymouth Avenue N Minneapolis, MN 55411

Prairie Island Community Center

Old Tribal Chambers 1158 Island Lake Boulevard Welch, MN 55089

Bad weather? Find out if a hearing is canceled — call (toll free) 855-731-6208 or 651-201-2213 or visit mn.gov/puc.

Virtual Public Hearings

Public hearings have been scheduled as follows to be held via video conference.

September 16, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. and September 23, 2025, at 1:30 p.m.

Attend by Internet Connection (Audio and Video)

To join the virtual hearing using a computer, tablet, or smart phone, where you will have audio and video capability, go to: https://minnesota.webex.com In the gray box where it says, “Enter Meeting Information” type the Event Number below for the public hearing date you are attending:

Directions for Appearing via WebEx.

• Log on 5 to 15 minutes before the hearing begins. You will be asked to join the hearing through a WebEx application or through a plug-in for your web browser.

• Enter the Event Number shown in the box above.

• Next, you will be asked to enter your name, your email address, and an event password (if required). After entering this information, click “Join Now” and you will be granted access to the virtual hearing.

• When you enter the hearing, your microphone will be muted. If you would like to ask a question or make a comment during the meeting, use the chat function to send a message to the meeting moderator, who will place you in the queue to comment. When it is your turn to comment, your name will be called and your line will be unmuted. You will then be able to ask questions or make a comment.

To Attend by Telephone (Audio Only)

If you do not have access to a computer, tablet, or smart phone, or if you would prefer to attend the hearing via audio only, you may join using any type of telephone. You do not need internet access to call into the hearing; however, you will only be able to hear (not see) the speakers. You will still be able to comment and ask questions.

Use the information in the box below to dial into the hearing. You will be asked to enter the access code for the hearing, as set forth below:

If you would like to ask a question or make a comment during the hearing, press *3 on your telephone. You will then be placed into the queue to comment. When it is your turn to speak, the last few digits of your telephone number will be announced by the moderator and your line will be unmuted, allowing you to be heard.

Public Hearing and Process Information

Administrative Law Judge Joseph C. Meyer will preside over the public hearings and will provide the Commission with findings of fact, conclusions of law, and recommendations after the conclusion of the evidentiary hearing.

The purpose of the public hearings is to receive public input on the proposed rate increase. At the public hearings, interested persons have the opportunity to: (1) ask questions of the utility and agency staff; and (2) offer verbal and written comments on the merits of the proposed rate increase. Members of the public may participate without needing to intervene as a party. Representation by legal counsel is permitted but not required.

Please note that the public hearings will end when all attendees present have had the opportunity to comment and all other business has been concluded. You are encouraged to join the meeting at the scheduled start time to be placed in the queue to comment. Commenters will be called in the order they enter the queue. Therefore, it is advantageous to arrive at the beginning of the hearing.

Written comments may be submitted during the comment period before and after the public hearings. Follow the instructions below to provide written comment.

Please contact Robert Manning at 651-201-2197 or if you have questions on how to participate or have trouble accessing the public hearing using telephone or internet.

Proposed Rate Increases

The

PROPOSED RATES

WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THE MINNESOTA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION

You can still submit comments even if you do not attend a public hearing.

Comment Period

Comments will be accepted through December 30, 2025, at 4:30 p.m.

• Comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the close date.

• Comments received after the comment period closes may not be considered.

How to Submit a Written Comment

Written comments can be submitted via: (1) the Commission’s website; (2) electronic mail; (3) U.S. Mail; or (4) facsimile. To learn how to submit a comment in any of these ways, please visit mn.gov/puc select “Get Involved” from the dropdown menu on the top of the page, then select “Public Comments and How to Participate.” This will take you to the Public Comment page where you will find a list of ways to comment. Be sure to reference MPUC Docket No. 24-320 in the subject line of your comment.

If you do not have access to the internet, you may send or deliver your comment to:

Minnesota Public Utilities Commission 121 7th Place East, Ste. 350 St. Paul, MN 55101

Important: Comments can be reviewed by the public on the MPUC’s website, except in limited circumstances consistent with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. The MPUC does not edit or delete personally identifying information from comments received.

EVIDENTIARY HEARINGS

Formal evidentiary hearings on Xcel Energy’s proposal will be held on December 17 to 19, 2025, starting at 9:30 a.m. each day. The evidentiary hearings will be held at the Public Utilities Commission, 350 Metro Square Building, 121 Seventh Place East, St. Paul, Minnesota. Individuals who cannot attend in person may attend via Microsoft Teams (Teams), a video conferencing platform. Members of the public who wish to attend the hearing through Teams may request an electronic invitation by contacting MPUC staff Robert Manning at 651-201-2197 or robert.manning@state.mn.us.

The purpose of the evidentiary hearing is to allow Xcel Energy, the Minnesota Department of Commerce – Division of Energy Resources, the Minnesota Office of Attorney General – Residential Utilities Division, and parties who have formally joined the contested case, to present testimony and to cross-examine each other’s witnesses on the proposed rate increase.

TO LEARN MORE

Xcel Energy’s current and proposed rate schedules are available at: Xcel Energy 414 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis MN 55401

Phone 612-330-5500

Web: https://www.xcelenergy.com/company/rates_and_regulations/ filings/minnesota_electric_rate_case

Minnesota Department of Commerce

85 7th Place East, Suite 500 St. Paul, MN 55101

Phone: 651-539-1534

Web: https://efiling.web.commerce.state.mn.us Under “eDockets” select “Search Documents” insert “24-320” in the Docket #s field, select Search, and the list of documents will appear on the next page.

If you have questions about the MPUC’s review process or need assistance in submitting comments, contact the Commission’s Consumer Affairs Office at:

Minnesota Public Utilities Commission

121 7th Place East, Suite 350 St. Paul, MN 55101

Phone: 651-296-0406 or 800-657-3782

Email: consumer.puc@state.mn.us

Anyone with hearing or speech disabilities may call through their preferred Telecommunications Relay.

Please contact the MPUC staff Robert Manning at 651-201-2197 or robert.manning@state.mn.us as soon as possible if you need an interpreter or accommodation to attend a public hearing.

White Bear Township approves permit for cannabis farm microbusiness

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jim Faulkner, Chief Manager of Faulkner Property LLC, has received zoning approval from White Bear Township, via a conditional use permit, to create a 6,000-square-foot cannabis grow operation. The zoning approval depends on Faulkner receiving a license from the state’s Office of Cannabis Management. The site is on County Road J, east of Highway 61.

“The conditional use permit allows them to cultivate and process cannabis plants for wholesale OCMlicensed retailers,” explained Town Planner CJ Sycks. “There would not be direct sales to everyday customers or on-site consumption — just producing product for other businesses to purchase.”

The Planning Commission found the conditional use permit complies with state statutes and township ordinances regarding cannabis and recommended approval. “I’m not exactly comfortable having this sort of business in the township, but it’s not like we have a legal right to stop it either,” said Town Supervisor Chair Ed Prudhon.

Neighboring business owner Kristina Capra brought

up security concerns to Town Planner Andrew Boucher regarding the microbusiness product. Because both her business and the grow operation are on the edge of the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office patrol area, Capra said she believes the cannabis plants are at high risk of being stolen. Faulkner assured the board that the site will be monitored around the clock by a third-party security company. Additionally, access to the plants will be tightly controlled, and inventory will be automatically logged into a computer system. “We will have a barcode on every single plant while it’s in our possession,” Faulkner said.

when they have absolutely no control over that.”

“I’m not exactly comfortable having this sort of business in the township, but it’s not like we have a legal right to stop it either.”

Ed Prudhon

Town Supervisor Chair

Communications Manager Josh Collins reported that OCM has issued 20 licenses so far, but has over 2,000 applications to consider. He said Faulkner Property’s application is likely awaiting OCM’s internal review. Collins noted that Faulkner’s application is unique because, unlike many other microbusiness applicants, he has a place of business ready and is not seeking approval for retail sale.

Per the conditional use permit, Faulkner must begin renovation of his buildings to a grow operation within the next five months, but he cannot start renovation until OCM grants the license. “Normally, the applicant controls when the work commences,” said Town Attorney Chad Lemmons. “This is one of the few times

According to OCM’s licensing checklist, if Faulkner Property passes its internal review, OCM will perform a prelicensure inspection. If the site passes that inspection, and Faulkner Property pays the licensing fee, it will be able to begin operation.

Logan Gion is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at savoureditor@ presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

“Angie” Wold President/CEO

• Transferring ownership of the section of South Shore Boulevard between Bellaire Avenue and County Road F E. from Ramsey County to White Bear Township is being tabled pending stormwater and maintenance issues. The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners was set to finalize the process, but Township Supervisor Chair Ed Prudhon and Township Supervisor Steve Ruzek raised concerns.

According to state statute, once a road changes ownership from county hands, Ramsey County remains responsible for maintenance for two years. Prudhon said a contract detailing this maintenance had not been provided. Ruzek added that stormwater at Bellaire Avenue and South Shore Boulevard had not been draining. “It’s a problem that was created with reconstruction, and it’s something, as a town member, I do not want to bear the cost of if it isn’t working,” Ruzek said. White Bear Township Town Attorney Chad Lemmons said, “It would be my advice that the town stay any further action on this matter until . . . we see a resolution adopted by the county board, so that you know exactly what you’re accepting.” The board agreed and tabled the decision. Consequently, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners followed suit.

Ramsey County Director of Public Works Brian Isaacson is working on the requests. In a memo provided to Town Clerk Patrick Christopherson, Isaacson explained that, per a cooperative agreement that the county and township signed in 2022, Ramsey County will retain ownership and responsibility of the storm sewer infiltration basin about which Ruzek is concerned. The county plans to contract repair of the basin this fall. Ramsey County Public Works has also

sent the township a memorandum of understanding. If signed, Ramsey County will give White Bear Township $20,000 to cover South Shore Boulevard’s maintenance expenses for the next two years. The county would also perform a light surface treatment on the road in 2026 at no cost to the township.

• Two new setback variances and an amended conditional use permit are now approved. Conversely, a driveway setback variance is being redrawn after board denial. The town board spent approximately 70 minutes of its meeting on four public hearing requests, three of which were approved with minimal questioning from the board after presentations by Town Planner Andrew Boucher. Boucher commented that the variance requests showed the need for new standardized language in the township’s zoning amendments.

• The result of the township’s General Obligation Improvement and Utility Revenue Bonds sale is $4,390,000. Christine Hogan, Director at Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors, said the proceeds will finance street improvement projects and related utility improvements. The repayment term on the bonds is 10 years. White Bear Township’s bond credit rating through S&P is AA+, the second-highest rating available. “It’s a terrific rating score,” Hogan said. “It really is a strong credit report for the township.” Hogan had estimated the bonds would carry a 3.82% interest rate, but because of the bonds’ credit rating and a competitive bidding environment, the township secured an interest rate of 3.115%.

Due to Labor Day, the White Bear Township Board next meets at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, at Heritage Hall.

Logan Gion

Mahtomedi Youth Hockey on breakaway quest to improve rink

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Mahtomedi Youth Hockey Association is on a power play to score a much-needed goal: extending the outdoor hockey season despite the fickle winter weather we are experiencing these days.

Although the hockey season begins in fall, there is no guarantee of ice for the outdoor rink at the District Education Center on Mahtomedi Avenue and Maple Street. The hockey rink is often closed because winter weather is either too warm or too snowy, said the hockey association‘s Fundraising Director Kristina Lucius. A refrigeration system would solve most of that, she said.

The hockey association will hold its first Mahtomedi nICE Icebreaker Kickoff fundraising event from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 7310 Jocelyn Road N. in Grant.

The casual event is open to everyone 21 or older — not just to hockey families, Lucius said. She added that it promises to be a “fun night of community and connection“ that includes games with prizes, savory eats from Kirkwood’s BBQ, refreshing drinks and live music. Besides offering fun and laughter, the association will update guests on its plans for improving the District Education Center hockey rink, she said.

Proceeds from the gala will go first toward the rink’s refrigeration system. Depending on how much money is raised, Lucius said, an open air awning, a permanent bathroom, a sound system and benches are improvements that will be added later.

The event will also raise funds for the association’s Angel Fund, which aids families “who need a little help keeping their kids in the sport

during tough times,“ Lucius said. She noted that the community already supports the rink. The Mahtomedi School District owns the physical rink and the land it is on, and the city of Mahtomedi operates the warming house. In addition to hosting hockey events, the rink offers open skating throughout the winter, weather permitting. “The improvements the hockey association seeks will help keep the rink open for everyone more often and more comfortably each winter,“ Lucius said.

For more information, visit the hockey association‘s website at www. mahtomedihockey. pucksystems.com, or email Lucius at K3lucius@gmail.com.

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

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Meet Your Specialist

Tom Lofboom is the owner of Natural Creations and Design. Tom and his family have lived in the local area for over 52 years. He has been in the landscaping business for over 52 years. Natural Creations and Design is a small company. Tom does everything from selling the job, to building the project to handling all the office work. He has sub-contracted for large companies so the quality of his work is equal to that of the larger landscape outfits. Give Tom a call @ 651-491-4623

LANDSCAPING

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OBITUARIES

Doris Elaine Casteel

87, formerly of White Bear Lake, MN. died August 20, 2025 in Rainbow City, AL. Our hope is to return Perry and Elaine, together, to their beloved Black Hills on what would have been their 70th wedding anniversary in August of 2026.

Annette Ida Johnson

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We don’t cut corners, we clean ‘em! Residential Window Cleaning Exterior Only Call Jeff for a free estimate 651-283-8770

Obituaries celebrate and honor unique lives.

(Full Name)

Years and age listed here followed by the names of family members, life accomplishments, places traveled, jobs held, or descriptions of what was important to the person.

To Submit an Obit Call 651-407-1250

Email obits@presspubs.com Visit us at 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN

Age 94, of White Bear Lake died peacefully surrounded by family on August 19, 2025. Preceded in death by her husband Edgar; brothers Jerry and Wayne Pribnow. She is survived by sons Randy (Michelle) and Brian (Angela); 7 grandchildren, Derick (Melissa), Lindsey, Blake, Ashley, Carson, Trista and Colton; sister Margo (Jim) Morelli; sister-in-law Suzy Brownlee; special nephew Marv Olson, and several nieces and nephews. Memorial Service 11 AM Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Community of Grace Lutheran Church, 4000 Linden Street, White Bear Lake, with a visitation one hour before the service at Church. Interment Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Mahtomedi. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.

Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172

Shirley A. Wenzel

Age 83, of Grant went home to Jesus, Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Shirley is survived by her husband Ronald; sons Dan (Jen), Greg (Joy), Mike (Kelly); grandchildren Dylan (Kenna), Dalton, McKenna, Cole, Caden and Ella; sister Paulette Genz.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11AM, Monday, September 8, 2025 at South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church, 2480 South Shore Blvd, White Bear Lake, with a visitation one hour before service at Church. Interment Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Mahtomedi. Memorials preferred to South Shore Trinity Lutheran Church or Our Lady of Peace Hospice. Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172.

MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD NOTES

• The district will host four learning sessions about the referendum this month and next. More information is available on the district website.

• Enrollment numbers are vital to planning, but true enrollment won’t be known until after the first week of school, said Superintendent Barb Duffrin in her enrollment update. During the first week of school, she said, staff discover who has moved in or out. Nevertheless, she said many grades in the district are full and have waiting lists. Although kindergarten has a very long waiting list, all students with siblings in the district got in, she said. “Many families are eager to get into kindergarten, but we just don’t have room,” she added. Duffrin noted that class sizes in all grades except second are at or below the metro average. Second grade class sizes increased slightly because the district reduced one section, she said. “Class sizes at the middle school are balanced, and high school class sizes are at a good level. Generally, enrollment is slightly higher than last year at this time,” she said. “Enrollment is stable.”

• The 2026-27 academic calendar is not quite ready to be made official. The board briefly reviewed the 202627 academic calendar but took no action to approve it. Board members said they needed more information.

• In community education news, Food Truck Friday is back, from 5-7 p.m. Sept. 12 at the District Education Center. Sept. 18 is Family Literacy Night, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Wildwood Elementary. The community lunch will be held Oct. 7 from noon to 1 p.m. at the District Education Center; PunkinMania will be held on Oct. 11 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Park, and MahtoREADi will be held Nov. 18 from 6:308:30 p.m. at Mahtomedi High School.

The board next meets at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, in the District Center‘s Community Room.

Loretta Harding

Mahtomedi celebrates role as title town

BY ALICE SEUFFERT AND LORETTA HARDING SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

It was joy and celebration in council chambers on Aug. 4 as the Mahtomedi City Council recognized the Mahtomedi High School girls flag football team and boys baseball team for bringing honor to their school and community by winning their respective state championships.

Mayor Richard Brainerd read resolutions and presented members of both teams with proclamations and plaques to display in the school trophy case.

It was Brainerd who started a tradition in 2023 by inviting the 2023 Mahtomedi boys hockey team to packed council chambers to be recognized as state champions. Since then, the community has had two more state championships in team sports — and many individual state championships in athletics and academics — to celebrate. The boys hockey team also won the state championship in 2020.

Earlier this year, the Mahtomedi girls flag football team made history by becoming the first state champion in that sport. The team went 9-0 in its first regular season and 13-0 overall, won the sectional championship, and entered the state tournament as the No 1 seed. Mahtomedi played Park of Cottage Grove in the semifinals and won

32-0. In the championship game, the team defeated La Crescent-Hokah 36-20. The Zephyrs had six shutouts during the season, more than any other Minnesota team.

In Class AAA baseball, the Zephyrs played Simley in the state tournament quarterfinals, winning 10-0, and defeated Hutchinson 6-5 in the semifinals. In the championship game, Mahtomedi defeated Mankato East 6-2. Four players represented Mahtomedi on the all-tournament team: Connor Finn (class of 2026), Jacob Reubish (class of 2026), Winston Wisely (class of 2025) and Isaac Iten (class of 2027). Mahtomedi was also state high school baseball champion in 2020 and 2018.

Girls flag football captains Sophia Peer and Breanna Elbers, along with Coach Nick “Sully” Sullivan, accepted the proclamation on behalf of the team, shared their gratitude with the council, and spoke about the season. “This program really changed my life, not only because we won state, but because my teammates and coaching staff were amazing and we all came together as one,” Peer said. “I think it had a great impact on our community, and I hope that more girls will want to play flag football.”

The baseball players also told the council what they valued most about their team. The students’ remarks reflected their team’s depth of skills, support for one another, team

morale and camaraderie, as well as their perseverance and growth throughout the season.

Mahtomedi Schools

Superintendent Barb Duffrin was on hand to join the fun. “As a fan, I’ll say my highlight in watching the teams was just watching their improvement over time,” she said. “This is a group of kids who are known as leaders in our school, and I’m not surprised to hear their highlight was supporting one another.”

Duffrin thanked Brainerd and the council for honoring Mahtomedi’s champions and recognizing Mahtomedi students. “It’s a fabulous way to recognize our students,” she said.

Alice Seuffert is the director of communications for Mahtomedi Public Schools; Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The Mahtomedi baseball team won state in 2025, 2020 and 2018.

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet

The Mahtomedi girls flag football team made history by becoming the first state champion in that sport earlier this year.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

Keystep Financial

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

1100 SATELLITE BLVD NW SUWANEE GA 30024

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Xpert Home Lending, Inc.

1100 SATELLITE BLVD NW SUWANEE GA 30024

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: August 25, 2025

Signed: Alex Budd Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 3 and 10, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

Thread Tax Service

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

1861 JULIET AVE, SAINT PAUL MN 55105

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Paul Fox LLC

1861 JULIET AVE, SAINT PAUL MN 55105

Dated: August 19, 2025

Signed: Paul Fox

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 27 and September 3, 2025.

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF CONTRACT FOR DEED

YOU ARE NOTIFIED:

1. Default has occurred in the Contract for Deed (“Contract”) dated 2-12023 and recorded on 7-9-2025, as Document Number 5071323, in the Office of the County Recorder of Ramsey County, Minnesota in which DeL Co LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, a Minnesota Limited PARTNERSHIP as seller, sold to Anthony Tremaine Green as purchaser, the real property in Ramsey County, Minnesota, described as follows:

- Legal description: Lot 4 Block 2, E.M. Mackubin’s 2nd Addition to the City of St. Paul, according to the recorded plat thereof - Property address: 864 Jenks Ave, St. Paul, MN 55106

2. The default is as follows: Failure to pay Feb. 2025 balance of Contract for Deed payment of $405, includes $100 late fee. Failure to pay Contract for Deed monthly payments of $1,966 (includes $100 late fee) for March, April, May, June, July 2025; and $1,866 for Aug. 2025.Admin Fee: $230.02. TOTAL OWED THROUGH AUGUST 2025 IS $12,331.02. PARTIAL PAYMENTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. MUST BE MADE CURRENT AT THE POINT OF REDEMPTION. Also due 90 days from date of publication: Publication fee $702, Aug. 2025 $100 late fee & September, Oct. & Nov. 2025 Contract for Deed monthly payments of $1,966, includes $100 late fee per month.

3. N/A

4. The conditions contained in Minn Stat. 559.209 have been compiled with or are not applicable.

5. THIS NOTICE IS TO INFORM YOU THAT BY THIS NOTICE, THE SELLER HAS BEGUN PROCEEDINGS UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 559.21, TO TERMINATE YOUR CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF YOUR PROPERTY FOR THE REASONS SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE. THE CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE 90 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. UNLESS BEFORE THEN: (a.) THE PERSON AUTHORIZED IN THIS NOTICE TO RECEIVE PAYMENTS RECEIVES FROM YOU:

(1.) THE AMOUNT THIS NOTICE SAYS YOU OWE; PLUS (2.) THE COSTS OF SERVICE (TO BE SENT TO YOU); PLUS (3.) $ TO APPLY TO ATTORNEY’S FEES ACTUALLY EXPENDED OR INCURRED; PLUS (4.) FOR CONTRACTS EXECUTED ON OR AFTER MAY 1, 1980, ANY ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS BECOMING DUE UNDER THE CONTRACT TO THE SELLER AFTER THIS NOTICE WAS SERVED ON YOU; PLUS (5.) FOR CONTRACTS, OTHER THAN EARNEST MONEY CONTRACTS, PURCHASE AGREEMENTS, AND EXERCISED OPTIONS, EXECUTED ON OR AFTER AUGUST 1, 1985, $230.02 (WHICH IS TWO PERCENT OF THE AMOUNT IN DEFAULT AT THE TIME OF SERVICE OTHER THAN THE FINAL BALLOON PAYMENT. ANY TAXES, ASSESSMENTS, MORTGAGES, OR PRIOR CONTRACTS THAT ARE ASSUMED BY YOU); OR (b.) YOU SECURE FROM A COUNTY OR DISTRICT COURT AN ORDER THAT THE TERMINATION OF THE CONTRACT BE SUSPENDED UNTIL YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES ARE FINALLY DISPOSED OF BY TRIAL, HEARING OR SETTLEMENT. YOUR ACTION MUST SPECIFICALLY STATE THOSE FACTS AND GROUNDS THAT DEMONSTRATE YOUR CLAIMS OR DEFENSES.

IF YOU DO NOT DO ONE OR THE OTHER OF THE ABOVE THINGS WITHIN THE TIME PRIOD SPECIFIED IN THIS NOTICE, YOUR CONTRACT WILL TERMINATE AT THE END OF THE PERIOD AND YOU WILL LOSE ALL THE MONEY YOU HAVE PAID ON THE CONTRACT; YOU WILL LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO POSSESSION THE PROPERTY; YOU MAY LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO ASSERT ANY CLAIMS OR DEFENSES THAT YOU MIGHT HAVE; AND YOU WILL BE EVICTED. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS NOTICE, CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY.

6. The name, mailing address, street address or location and telephone number of the seller or of an attorney authorized by the seller to accept payments pursuant to this notice is:

Name: Chad Lemmons of Kelly and Lemmons, P.A., Attorney for Seller

Mailing Address: 2350 Wycliff St., # 200, St. Paul, MN 55114 Street Address or Location where the Seller or the Attorney will accept payment pursuant to the notice: DeLisle Company, 1146 Rice St., St. Paul, MN 55117 Telephone: (651) 488-0561

This person is authorized to receive the payments from you under this notice. Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 27, September 3 and 10, 2025.

RAMSEY

COUNTY, MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES

AUGUST 19, 2025

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:04 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega. Commissioner McMurtrey was excused. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

AGENDA of August 19, 2025 was presented for approval. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. MINUTES of August 12, 2025 were presented for approval. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Xiong.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Board of Commissioners – Appointments to the Capitol Region Watershed District Board of Managers. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-155)

Parks & Recreation – Appointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-156)

Parks & Recreation – Sanitary Sewer Pipeline Right of Entry Agreement, Temporary Easement, Amendment to Permanent Easement with the Metropolitan Council for Access to Keller Lake Regional Park. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-157)

Public Works – Revoke County Road 94/South Shore Boulevard and revert to White Bear Township. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Miller. This item was tabled.

Finance – Appointments to the Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Jebens-Singh. Unanimously approved. (B2025-158)

Housing Stability – Grant Award for the Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-159)

PRESENTATION

County Manager’s Office – County Funding Streams. For information and discussion only. Discussion can be found on archived video.

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

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

OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

Discussion can be found on archived video.

BOARD CHAIR UPDATE No Updates.

ADJOURNMENT

Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:38 a.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 3, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF MCLEOD

JUVENILE COURT DIVISION

FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT

COURT FILE NUMBER: 43-JV-25-41

SUMMONS AND NOTICE

In the Matter of the Welfare of the Children of: Sabrina Nadean Badboy and All Possible Fathers TO: DEMETRIUS BENI and ALL POSSIBLE FATHERS

An Amended Petition to Terminate Parental Rights was filed on August 12, 2025, with Court Administration located at the McLeod County District Court, 830 11th ST. E. Glencoe, Minnesota 55336, seeking to permanently sever the parental rights of the above-named parents. Notice is hereby given that the matter of said Petition to Terminate Parental Rights will be called for an Admit/Deny Permanency Petition Hearing on October 13, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. before the McLeod County District Court located at 830 11th ST. E. Glencoe, Minnesota 55336.

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND REQUIRED TO APPEAR BEFORE THE COURT AT THE SCHEDULED TIME AND DATE where a hearing regarding the Petition and the best interests of the child will be held You have the right to be represented by counsel. If you fail to appear at the hearing, the Court may still conduct the hearing in your absence and the hearing may result in the Court granting the relief requested in the Petition by default which may include:

(1) the parent’s parental rights being permanently severed pursuant to a termination of parental rights petition;

(2) permanent transfer of the child’s legal and physical custody to a relative;

(3) a finding that the statutory grounds set forth in the petition have been proved; and

(4) and order granting the relief requested.

You may obtain a copy of the Petition and a statement of your rights and responsibilities from the McLeod County Court Administrator’s Office. It is your responsibility to immediately notify the Court Administrator if your address changes. If you have any questions about this hearing or if you need further information, please contact McLeod County Court Administration.

Dated: August 14, 2025

By: Karen Mesner, Court Administrator 830 11th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55336 (320) 864-1281

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 27, September 3 and 10, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-710

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of: Karen Patricia Kroona, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 1:15 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Robert D. Wright, whose address is 648 Cleveland Avenue Southwest, New Brighton, Minnesota, 55112, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

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

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

Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT:

Michael F. Upton, District Court Administrator

Date: August 7, 2025 BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator

Attorney for Petitioner: Melanie Boes, Esq. (#033599X) Pluto Boes Legal 2633 Innsbruck Drive, Suite A, New Brighton, MN 55112 mboes@plutoboeslegal.com; Phone: (612) 787-7820; Fax: (507) 247-5868

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 27 and September 3, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-643 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of Alice Jo Sirbascu, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on August 12, 2025 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated November 22, 2022 (“Will”) has been filed with the Court, and the Amended

Application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Kristin Jo Filstrup, 12427 Pierce Street NE, Blaine, MN 55434, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. §524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. §524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator

Date: August 13, 2025

Attorney for Personal Representative

CATHERINE RUTH KLANCHER, Attorney License No.: 391731 Cummins & Bonestroo Law Office PLLC 2251 Tower Drive West, Suite 100, Stillwater, MN 55082 Telephone: 651-328-8675; E-Mail: cklancher@cblawoffices.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 27 and September 3, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-707

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of: Estate of John R. Schwarz, a/k/a John Randall Schwarz, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 1:30 p.m until 1:45 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated January 1, 2025 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Sara Groden, whose address is 401 East Street, Walpole, MA 02081, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

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

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5. NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT: Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator BY: Benjamin Linker, Deputy Court Administrator Date: August 15, 2025 Petitioner is a Self-Represented Litigant: Sara Groden 401 East Street, Walpole, MA 02081 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 27 and September 3, 2025.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE

SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar as an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Section 331A.03 of the Minnesota Statutes. Individuals may go to the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” section of the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage at ramseycounty.us/ContractWithRamsey to access registration information. If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the DemandStar registration instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” webpage. Access to all Ramsey County documents is free if the instructions that are posted are followed. You may call 651-266-8072 or email ProcurementTeam@ ramseycounty.us if you need assistance.

Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details. To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan

SOLICITATION: RFB-PUBW30406-MM

OPENING DATE: OCTOBER 2, 2025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A CONTRACTOR FOR THE JACKSON STREET BRIDGE REHABILITATION CONSTRUCTION PROJECT. THIS INCLUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO INSTALLATION OF PIER ARCH SUPPORT AND COLUMN REPAIR. THE BRIDGE IS CLOSED UNTIL REPAIRS ARE MADE.

SOLICITATION: RFB-PRMG34545-KB

OPENING DATE: OCTOBER 2, 2025

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY THROUGH THE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A PRIME CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ALL SUPPLIES, EQUIPMENT, MATERIAL, LABOR, AND INCIDENTALS FOR THE LANDMARK CENTER SIDEWALK REPLACEMENT PROJECT, LOCATED AT 75 FIFTH STREET WEST, ST PAUL, MN. PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: LANDMARK CENTER LOBBY, 75 W 5TH STREET, ST PAUL MN 55102 SEPTEMBER 18, 2025, 8:00AM CST Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 3, 2025. RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 5:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as possible, on Monday, September 22, 2025, in the Council Chambers, third floor of Saint Paul City Hall – Ramsey County Courthouse (15 West Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN 55102). This public hearing will be conducted in order to afford the public an opportunity to comment on the proposed 2026-2027 budget. Complete detail about the proposed 2026-2027 budget be found on Ramsey County’s web site at ramseycounty.us/budget. Persons who intend to testify are encouraged to sign up online at ramseycounty.us/chiefclerk or to contact the Chief Clerk at 651-266-9200 prior to Monday, September 22, 2025. If in-person testimony is not feasible, comments may alternatively be provided via the following methods: Email: chiefclerk@ramseycounty.us | Phone: 651-266-9200 | Written Mail: Chief Clerk, 15 W. Kellogg Blvd, Suite 250, Saint Paul, MN 55102 Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 3, 2025.

School board dives into testing data

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Much of the academic testing data from the 2024-2025 school year is now available, although some will be released this fall.

Educational Technology and District Assessment Coordinator Disa Fabeck told the school board that Independent School District 624 uses test scores from Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments, FastBridge Learning, the ACT test, and advanced placement classes to provide a “holistic picture” of its students’ performances.

The district’s internal data estimates White Bear Lake’s MCA reading scores have improved significantly while math scores have improved slightly from last year. Average scores for both have exceeded the state average for the past four years. The MCA testing scores for reading and math were not available as of press deadline. MCA testing scores for science will be available in October.

According to FastBridge, 66% of students grades 2-8 met benchmarks in both the fall and spring for both math and reading. Fabeck noted that FastBridge’s spring test is harder than its fall test because learning

standards rise from the beginning to the end of the school year. Therefore, even maintaining percentages from fall to spring denotes improvement.

Kindergarten and first grade students, meanwhile, improved their performance on FastBridge tests from fall to spring by 16 percentage points in reading and 5 in math. Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Alison Gillespie said, “We've done a significant amount of work around our English curriculum, and we are in the process around math. We have elementary (schools) piloting two math curricula this year.”

The high school provides the ACT for its juniors every spring, the results of which will not be available until mid-October.

Of the 536 high school students who took the 2025 advanced placement exams, 80% scored 3 out of 5 or better — scores the University of Minnesota Twin Cities accepts for college credit. Fabeck estimated that the average advanced placement student saved $3,000 in college tuition as a result of taking the courses.

Board Member Jessica Ellison said, “I appreciate having these multiple tests included, because MCA is one day. If the kid didn't have breakfast that morning or if somebody is sick, then that affects their test

scores. But having FastBridge and AP here is really good too.”

Board Member Deb Beloyed said, “I’ve been diving into the numbers for I don’t know how long. I think FastBridge probably tells us more than what the MCAs would … but there’s got to be a better way to do this and actually get kids prepared for life outside of high school.”

According to a survey of district educators performed by Educators Thriving, educator overall well-being is improving in the district and is outpacing the national average. Of nearly 1,000 respondents, 81% said they agree or strongly agree that they are motivated to learn new things at work. Seventy-two percent of respondents agreed with the statement, “My administrator encourages staff to set healthy boundaries related to work,” up 16% from 2023, when the survey asked the same question.

Co-founder and Head of Research Hallie Fox pointed out that areas for improvement include staffing needs, higher compensation and more relevant professional development. Fox encouraged the board to address the needs, citing four scientific studies that associated higher levels of educator well-being with better student outcomes.

Bears overtake Park 28-14 in grid opener

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

A pair of highlight-reel plays — quarterback Tomi Animasaun’s long gallop up the middle and Will McQuay’s dash with a fumble recovery — were the game-breakers for White Bear Lake in a 28-14 win over Park of Cottage Grove.

Animasaun ran for two touchdowns and passed for another in the opener at home Thursday evening, while the Bears defense came up with seven tackles-for-loss and four takeaways to keep the Wolfpack at bay.

Park out-gained the Bears 282 net yards to 248 but lost three fumbles and an interception and had costly penalties, one of which wiped out a 47-yard touchdown pass.

Animasaun scored on a two-yard run and a 56-yard run, tying the score at 7-7 and 14-14. The third-year QB hit receiver Brian White with a 12-yard TD in the third quarter for a 21-14 lead. Minutes later, after Park had their TD pass nullified, they had a high snap and their QB was buried by Bear linemen. After a lengthy scrum, strong safety McQuay emerged with the ball and had an open field, sprinting 40 years to open a 2814 lead.

Keying the win was the last 90 seconds of the half that saw three turnovers. With the Bears down 14-7, Easton Miles had a great kickoff return going

BASEBALL

Connor Finn, after helping Mahtomedi capture the Class 3A baseball championship in 2025, has committed to play for Texas Tech.

A 6-foot-4, 185-pound left-handed pitcher and outfielder who throws in the low 90s, Finn made the allconference and all state tournament teams. Finn passed up his senior season of football to concentrate on baseball, after a productive junior season at quarterback with 12 touchdowns passing and six rushing.

SWIMMING

Mahtomedi won five of nine events in the Metro East Conference Relays at Simley and placed first of seven teams, outscoring runnerup Hastings 140 to 118. Swimming on first-place relays were Abigail Wright, Dani Baker, Maddie Ruppel, Delaney Dumermuth, Rory Juhl, Aria Armstrong, Lena Granovsky,

VOLLEYBALL

White Bear Lake won its opener 3-2 over Hutchinson 25-18, 25-27, 17-25, 25-22, 15-10. Pearl Niemioja delivered 12 kills, Raegan Farmer 11 and Maya Link 10. Abby Meyer made 33 assists and Leila Otto 10. Addison Lee made three solo blocks. Kailey Gieske notched 29 digs, Maddie Pearson 18, Meyer 14, Farmer 13 and Otto 12.

GIRLS SOCCER

The Bears and Mahtomedi scrapped to a 1-1 tie in Mahtomedi. The Bears (21-1) then lost at Prior Lake 3-1. Against Mahtomedi, Grace Weierke scored with an assist from Eleanor Mooers. The Bears missed several scoring chances in the first 15 minutes. “You can't have four breakaways and miss them all, especially early,” said co-coach John Dierkhising. “Their keeper (Harlow Berger) definitely kept them in it...not having that cushion offensively cost us a W.”

BOYS SOCCER

The Bears (1-2) picked up a 2-0 win at South St. Paul, snapping a six-game losing streak overlapping two seasons.

but stumbled at midfield and lost the ball, with their fastest guy, Matt Kamande, recovering and returning it 21 yards. But two plays later, Lincoln Bacha forced a fumble by a receiver and Teddy St. Martin recovered. On the next play, Animasaun, back to pass, saw a crease and blasted 60 yards down the middle to tie the score. Park went back on the attack but Miles atoned by reaching up for a one-handed interception.

Ruby Roitsch and Riley Parizek. In their conference opener at North/ Tartan, the defending champs won every event. Getting individual firsts were Armstrong, Wright, Murphy, Adalyn Miller, Roitsch, Parizek and Granovsky.

GIRLS TENNIS

The Zephyrs opened with a loss to Eden Prairie 4-3, then beat Mounds Park Academy 5-2, Chisago Lakes 6-1, Forest Lake 4-3 and Roseville 4-3. The singles lineup is Mallory Langer, Lily Carlson, Abby Manger and Braelyn Skow at 1-2-3-4. In doubles are Katherine Smith/ Berkley Blaisdell, Alexia Tempelis/ Brooke Berg and Ellis Krause/Ellie Driscoll at 1-2-3.

VOLLEYBALL

In a clash of 2024 state tournament teams, Cretin-Derham Hall, which has more players back, defeated

TENNIS

The Bears (2-3) lost at South St. Paul 5-2, then lost to Duluth East 5-2 and beat Hibbing 6-1 in Duluth. Lisa Gritzmacher, freshman at 1-singles, won in straight sets in all three matches. Lucy Wolfe won against SSP and Hibbing at 4- and 3-singles, respectively. Also winning vs. Hibbing were Sophie Sargent, Josie Guidinger/Sophie Menier, Mallory Peltier/Chloe Thiessen, and Whitney Breen/Matilda Moore.

SWIMMING

White Bear Lake won its conference opener against Park 96-82. Placing first were Charlotte McIntyre (individual medley and butterfly), Eva Hoefer (200 free), Ollie Hesket (50 free), Audrey Borofka (100 free) and Sophie Collins (500 free). The Bears also won the 400 free relay with McIntyre, Heskett, Hoefer and Borofka, and the 200 free relay with Borofka, Hoefer, Hesket and Addie Johnson.

Bruce Strand

“After that big return where we fumbled, we were able to hunker down and make big plays. That was great to see,” coach Ryan Bartlett said. “We could have been down 21-7; instead we went into halftime tied, and gave ourselves a good chance to control the second half."

Animasaun was 9-for-14 for 126 yards with no interceptions. The Bears have two Brian White’s, both prominent in the offense. No. 83 caught seven passes for 72 yards. No. 26 ran 18 times for 52 yards and gained 45 yards on a screen pass. Animasaun had 68 yards in ten totes.

Park’s Esten Erickson, mostly throwing long, went 13-for-23 for 136 yards with a ]12-yard TD to Nolan Sease and a 38-yard strike to Kaleb Mitfau that set up Kody Aikens’ one-yard TD. Matt Kamande caught eight passes for 81 yards and set up their first TD with a 37-yard run.

Bacha kicked three extra points and Chase Bachmeier made the final one after Bacha was shaken up on a defensive play. The other Bear takeaway was a fumble recovery by Giacomo Anderson. Tackles-for-loss were made by St. Martin (two, for 20 yards), Vince Kazmierczak (two), Logan Gibson, Christian Humphrey and Adam Okanawon.

“It was good to come out of there with a win,” Barlett said. "Park has, I counted, 16 guys back who started last year. They will be a good team.”

Mahtomedi 25-20, 25-17, 25-14 in the season opener. Louisa Tarnowski logged seven kills, seven digs and three blocks, and passed 19-for20 for the Zephyrs. The Zephyrs beat Chisago Lakes 25-18, 25-20, 25-22 as Tarnowski notched 17 kills, Claire Crothers 15 digs and a 2.21 passing rating, Nora Bonifas-Johnson nine kills, Caitlin Glaser 18 assists and Katie Hergenrader 16 assists while serving 15-for-15.

BOYS SOCCER

Parker Maas delivered three goals as Mahtomedi opened with a 6-3 win at Duluth Denfeld. Kaden Gagnelius added two goals and Sam Buelke one. Gagnelius tallied both goals in a 2-1 win over St. Anthony Village, including the game-winner on a breakaway with six minutes left.

GIRLS SOCCER

Mahtomedi tied Rochester Century 1-1 and beat Rochester Mayo 3-1 on a southern trip to open the season. Against Century, Kayla Poirier tied the score with 12 seconds left on a penalty kick. Scoring against Mayo were Poirer, Xiaobao Liang (corner

kick) and Elise Aflakpi. Sophie Boberg in goal stopped 13 of 15 shots in the two games. The Zephyrs then battled to a 1-1 tie against White Bear Lake. Goalie Harlow Berger foiled several Bear breakaways. Aflapki had the lone goal.

Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Ellyse Oelker

White Bear Lake Soccer September 3, 2025

Ellyse Oelker, Bear soccer junior, delivered four goals and an assist in wins over Centennial and Spring Lake Park, then played three different positions and all 80 minutes in a 1-1 tie with Mahtomedi. “She is our most versatile player,” said John Dierkhising, co-coach. A center mid in 9th and 10th grade, she’s deployed in attack mode this year after the graduation of two prolific scorers. An all-conference pick last year, Oelker is proving difficult to defend on the attack, adept at holding the ball under pressure and at maneuvering into scoring position, Dierkhising said.

4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254

info@4seasonsairwbl.com

TODD VOIT | CONTRIBUTED

Wyatt McQuay (24) sees open field after picking up a fumble. He raced 40 yards for a touchdown.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Charlotte Monette of the Zephyrs and Ellyse Oelker of the Bears jousted for the ball.

City imposes administrative fine for liquor license violation

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

The city of White Bear Lake has imposed an administrative fine of $150 on White Bear Wine & Spirits for liquor violations.

City Clerk Caley Longendyke said the city was notified by the Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division that the business was unlawfully selling alcoholic beverages obtained from another liquorlicensed retail account. In addition, the business was offering items that are prohibited for sale at an exclusive liquor store, a violation of Minnesota statutes. The Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division imposed a civil fine of $1,000 for the violations, which has already been paid.

White Bear’s city code states the council may impose an administrative penalty for violations in

accordance with state statutes.

“City staff recommends an administrative penalty in accordance with the fee schedule to document the violation and ensure that future violations are handled in accordance with the city’s progressive enforcement structure,” Longendyke said.

She added that, since the establishment opened in fall 2024, the business has had no other liquor-related violations.

Council Member Kevin Edberg wanted to know what the city should do, if anything, to make sure there isn’t another violation. Longendyke explained that the owner of the business is a relative of a previous liquor store owner and “should know the liquor laws.” She added that the letter from the city to the establishment as well as the letter from the Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division should be sufficient to let the business owner know they are

on notice and subsequent violations could result in further penalties.

Mayor Dan Louismet said there are great variations in liquor license violations. Although he said he doesn’t condone the violation, more severe violations — such as selling to a minor — would be more concerning.

“This to me is, OK, you are going to pay your fine, let’s move on. Don’t do it again. This doesn’t get me hot and bothered like an underage sale would,” Louismet said.

If the business were to have a subsequent violation within the next 18 months, it could result in a sevenday suspension of its liquor license as well as larger administrative fines.

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