BEST OF THE PRESS: Winners and finalists revealed in special section inside
Epic road trip traces historic highway
BY DEBRA NEUTKENS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Waiting for that elusive two-week window took time — decades in fact — but at long last, a retired career couple
completed a journey along a famous highway that starts in Chicago and ends at the Pacific Ocean in a road trip of a lifetime.
Legendary Route 66 spans 2,448 miles across eight states, starting in Chicago and ending at the Pacific Ocean in California. It’s also known as “America’s Highway,” the “Main Street of America” and the “Mother Road.”
Driving the highway’s length start to finish
was a “bucket list” item for J.P. Barone, a former assistant district attorney whose wife, Victoria Reinhardt, promised to accompany him when
SEE ROUTE 66, PAGE 19
City Council dives into dog park site options
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — Following extensive research, the Parks Advisory Commission and city staff recommend that the dog beach stay in its current location in Matoska Park north of the boat launch.
Back in March, the City Council decided to let the dog beach remain open in its current location but made several changes. These change included amending city code to require a 30-foot maximum leash for users as well as dedicating a community service officer to patrol the area of the dog beach all the way down the lake shore to Commercial Bay. The council also directed city staff to analyze alternative locations on cityowned property with water access where the dog beach could potentially be relocated.
Public Works Director/City Engineer Paul Kauppi said they identified 18 possible locations adjacent to bodies of water and reviewed them for “potential suitability.”
“Seventeen of the 18 parcels were found to be unsuitable due to a variety of site constraints including proximity to residential parcels and docks, shoreline conditions, mucky water bottom conditions, presence of aquatic vegetation, site accessibility or conflicts with other existing uses,” Kauppi noted. He added that many of the sites would require extensive improvements that would result in a permitting “nightmare” via the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or the watershed organizations.
The one site that could be a viable option is Site 8, located on the south side of the Matoska boat launch.
DOG BEACH, PAGE 9
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
One business continues to rise to the top of the ballot in not only the White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press
“Best of the Press” contest, but the contests in other markets, including the Shoreview Press and The Citizen.
The annual Best of the Press Readers’ Choice contest, which kicked off in 2020, allows
community members to vote for a wide variety of their favorites, including restaurants, doctors, schools, artists, services, events and much more.
Companywide, business nominations had its biggest growth year in 2025, increasing by 63% from 28,169 to 46,094 nominations. Since the contest’s launch, votes have more than doubled from 150,399 to 409,238.
Orchid Restaurant, located at 1190 County Road J in White Bear
Township, has been nominated every year in the contest and has achieved the rank of “the best” in various categories throughout the years.
This year, Orchid won Best Pho Soup in the White Bear Press; Best Chow Mein, Best Fried Rice and Best Pho Soup in The Citizen contest; along with Best Fried Rice in both the Quad Community Press and Shoreview
SEE ORCHID RESTAURANT, PAGE 9
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Top Left: J.P. Barone enjoys the first leg of a bucket list trip on a Route 66 sculpture. Bottom Left: On Day 9, Victoria Reinhardt spray paints their initials on “the carcass of a dead Cadillac” at a public art installation called the Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo, Texas Left: End of the road: the Santa Monica Pier on the Pacific Ocean.
CONTRIBUTED
Orchid Restaurant in White Bear Township was voted the best in several categories and Press Publications contests.
SEE
THANK YOU!
Gloria’s 13th Annual
White Bear Lake Shortest Marathon
One Block Run
A genuine thank you to all the fun and generous people that showed up on Saturday 9/20 to run the Shortest Marathon. You came with big smiles, bright shirts, wheelchairs, walkers, dogs and in a party mood! It was a record year, our 13th year total was $13,800 for the White Bear Area Food Shelf with 373 runners. This will put nutritious meals of fresh foods and staples on the tables of our neighbors in need of our assistance.
Thank you to our volunteers John Parenteau, Mary Burfeind, Kim Bennett & Timm Lavass, Jerry & Carole McKinzie, Brett & Lisa Barett, Mary & Kim Potz, Christian Deeney, John J Parenteau, Karen Williamson, and the WBL Food Shelf staff and the neighbors on the marathon course.
Many thanks to our generous sponsors: Donatelli’s Restaurant, IC Systems, Rudy’s Red Eye & Country Inn, Mueller Memorial, VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary, Northland Financial, Raising Cane’s, Hisdahl’s, The Joy Erickson Realty Team and Sheila Kelly Law. Please patronize their establishments and thank them in person.
Thanks to the food vendors that donate all the marathon food: Mueller Memorial and staff for the White Castles, Caribou Coffee (Hwy 96/Centerville Rd), Aldi (Mahtomedi) for the water, Raising Cane’s for the lemonade, and Kim Bennett for the donut holes.
Gloria’s 12th Annual
White Bear Lake Shortest Marathon
Our only expenses are for the shirts and advertising. Every penny of the participants donation goes directly to the Food Shelf!
One Block Run
SEPTEMBER 28th, 2024 - 11:00 am Bald Eagle Ave - 3rd to 2nd St.
Our thanks also for the support of Perry Peterson, Amy, Ashley, Kristi and crew from the WB Area Food Shelf, Keith Hisdahl for printing the shirts, and Patti and Paul of the White Bear Press.
$35 (tax deductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your friends, to take it off your bucket list, and to aid a good cause.
T-shirts, White Castles, water and other treats will be included for registered participants in the marathon.
Gloria Carpenter & Peggy Parenteau
White Bear Area Food Shelf
RED
When: Through Oct. 12
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Limited run play is a provacative clash of art, ego and legacy. Ticket information online.
Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org
BINGO
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2
Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave.
Details: Seniors can play Bingo; bring in a “gift” or unused gift card for the prize table. Contact: 651-653-3121 or whitebearseniorprogram. org
3RD ANNUAL ZEPHYR GET TOGETHER
When: 4:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2
Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard,
Details: Join the Mahtomedi Area Education Foundation for an evening of live music with Mean Gene and the Woodticks, food trucks, face painting, obstacle course, corn maze and more. Ticket information online.
Contact: bit.ly/ZGT2025
HARVEST HOWL
When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4
Where: Wildlife Science Center, 22830 Sunrise Rd. NE, Stacy
Details: Annual fundraising event features resident animals including wolves, raptors, bears and cougars, educational demos, local vendors, food and Brewstillery. Leashed dogs welcome. Contact: wildlifesciencecenter.org
RIVERTOWN ART FESTIVAL
When: Saturday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 5
Where: Lowell Park, Stillwater
Details: More than 210 artist booths, live music, food, beer & wine tent and interactive activities. Free.
Contact: greaterstillwaterchamber.com
HYMNFEST FOR THE EARTH
When: 4-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5
Where: St. Mary of the Lake, 4741 Bald Eagle Avev., White Bear Lake
Details: Musicians from local parished come together to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis' letter to Laudato Sí, with instruction on caring for the earth as our common home. Free and open t the public.
Contact: stmarys-wbl.org
LUNCH & LEARN AT A FUNERAL HOME
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday, Oct 6
Where: Mueller Memorial Funeral Home, 4738 Bald Eagle, White Bear Lake
Enjoy lunch and learn about planning your own farewell - what you’d want, what you wouldn’t, and how to ensure your wishes are honored. Small fee for lunch. Call to register.
Contact: 651-653-6121.
CONSUMER ROAD SHOW SCAMS FOR SENIORS
When: 1-2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7
Where: White Bear Area Senior Center
Details: Overview of scams to watch out for and resources for customer assistance and filing complaints. Free.
Contact: 651-653-3121 or whitebearseniorprogram. org
THE SCIENCE & ART OF LONGEVITY
When: 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 9
Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake
Details: Kelly Nygard, owner of Live 2 B Healthy –St. Croix Valley, will share insights from Dr. Peter Attia’s bestselling book Outlive to explore the difference between lifespan and healthspan, and how thoughtful choices today can enhance the quality of future years. Free community event.
Contact: 651-777-1107
PUNKINMANIA
When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11
Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center and Veteran's Memrial Park
Details: Outdoor, community event with painted pumkins for sale, games, crafts, fire trucks, food, refreshments and more. Sponsored by the Wildwood Lions Club and Kramer-Berg American Legion Post 507.
CORRECTIONS
In the Sept. 24 issue, the VFW Booya listing in the What’s Happening section contained the wrong date. The correct date is Sunday, Oct. 5.
In the 2025 Voters’ Guide, which ran in the Sept. 24 issue, it should have stated that Ellen Gurrola is running for Ward 2 for the White Bear Lake City Council.
We apologize for the errors.
When: Noon Sunday, Oct. 5.
Where: Keep-Zimmer Post 1782 at 4496 Lake Ave, White Bear Lake
Details: Booya will be made with oxtail, a cut of meat from a cattle’s tail, known for its rich, flavorful and gelatinous quality. The Winter Carnival’s Klondike Kates will be at the post from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Contact: 651-426-4944
OPINION
Support our downtown
Iwas shocked to receive the postcard in the mail informing us that the United States Postal Service is considering relocating the retail operations of our White Bear Lake Post Office.
Publisher’s View
As you may have read in the stories in the paper and conversations through the letters to the editor over the past few weeks, it seems the proposal is to move the retail operation to an undisclosed location within two miles of the current location and keep the distribution center in the current downtown facility as a carrier annex. What I found on the USPS website is a little confusing:
“The Postal Service will be looking for one of the following: (a) an existing building that is about 3,100 Square feet with about 20+ parking to move retail and keep carriers at the current location or (b) expand the current owned building and either buy the property around the building to expand or find parking for 100+ vehicles.” (https://about.usps.com/newsroom/ local-releases/mn/2025/0826ma-notice-of-proposedrelocation-and-comment-period.html)
Option (a) is the one residents who received the postcard have been reacting to. Option (b) seems like a terrible option. In a community that is presumably built out, what is the need for that much additional space? As the owner of a home and a business in the downtown area, this plan is concerning.
It has been difficult to get the details and find out what is really happening. Further, the USPS postcard invites input from residents; however, the only method of providing feedback is to send a letter to an address in North Carolina.
Post offices are a key hub in our communities. They also drive traffic to our downtown businesses. In White Bear Lake the post office brings people downtown who then spend time shopping, having lunch, getting a haircut, or walking around. The fact that our post office's retail operation needs to be relocated makes me wonder how such a move might impact local businesses downtown.
Maybe the USPS needs to think like a business and outside the box. Perhaps the USPS could open up a smaller retail operation in our downtown/ mainstreet district if they need to use the current facility as a distribution center? I have heard from sources closer to the issue that this option is being considered, but nothing has been determined for sure. A good example to look at is the Willernie Post Office, which operates a small and busy retail operation under the guidance of a postmaster. There is still time to send comments, so take a few minutes to send in your feedback. Our downtown businesses need your support. The address is: United States Postal Service
ATTN: St. Paul – White Bear MN Relocation PO Box 27497 Greensboro, NC 27498-1103
Better yet, contact our local representatives in Congress about the USPS proposal: Sen. Amy Klobuchar: 612-727-5220 or www. klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/email-amy Sen. Tina Smith: 651-221-1016 or www.smith. senate.gov/services/help-with-a-federal-agency Rep. Betty McCollum: 651-224-9191 or visit https:// mccollum.house.gov/services/help-federal-agency
The postal permit for our newspapers is out of the Circle Pines Post Office. We have had wonderful service and appreciate the staff there and also in White Bear Lake and the other post offices we work with in the area.
Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
Talking cryptocurrency with U of M
For many, cryptocurrency, blockchain and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are concepts that some may first associate with wealth, technology or digital artwork. However, while interconnected, each of these terms have a distinct purpose and role in our economy.
Vivian Fang, an associate professor in the Carlson School of Management, explains what these are, and what could be next.
Q: What is blockchain technology?
University of Minnesota
Vivian Fang
A. A blockchain is a multi-party, data-sharing platform. In simple terms, new data can only be uploaded if the participating computers on the network agree. Existing data can not be edited. In more technical terms, a blockchain is a distributed, append-only ledger of provablysigned, sequentially-linked and secured transactions (e.g., through encryption) that’s replicated across a network of computers.
Q. What are cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and how do they work?
A: There are three key characteristics of cryptocurrencies:
• All cryptocurrencies are digital,
• Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election.
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meaning there is no physical form of it. There are no bills or coins or other notes.
• All cryptocurrencies are secured through cryptography. This means encryption algorithms and techniques are used to ensure that the ledger isn’t tampered with.
• Most cryptocurrencies are decentralized, meaning that they use a distributed ledger technology. Typically, this is through blockchain technology. Cryptocurrencies work similarly to government-issued currencies that are not backed by a commodity, such as the U.S. dollar, because they can be used to buy goods and services. However, no government authority is needed to issue cryptocurrencies and no central agency is needed to clear transactions.
NFTs are tokenized, digital work. You can think of NFTs as digital collectibles, or crypto alternatives to antiques or baseball cards. NFTs are created to authenticate ownership of creative digital work because transactions of NFTs and their ownership are recorded on blockchain.
Q: In business, what roles do cryptocurrencies and blockchain have?
A: As more companies start to expand into the crypto space, customers can now use cryptocurrencies to pay for goods and services at millions of merchants where PayPal is accepted after the online payment
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giant introduced its “Checkout with Crypto” service. Furthermore, an increasing number of companies are starting to invest directly in crypto assets. As a data sharing platform, blockchain has a much broader application in business. If used right, an enterprise blockchain can help save time, cut cost and mitigate risk.
Q: How do cryptocurrencies have value?
A: Whether cryptocurrencies have value is perhaps the toughest question to answer.
On one side of the argument, cryptocurrencies are of great value to libertarians and cypherpunks. They have long yearned for a currency that is free from government intervention and truly native to cyberspace. Cryptocurrencies are also of value because they can now serve as a medium of exchange, and they are anti-inflationary by nature. However, on the other side, most cryptocurrencies have no intrinsic value. This is because they do not generate cash flows nor do they have stable stores of value (i.e., a currency that can maintain its relative value over time without depreciating). For cryptocurrencies to move toward mainstream acceptance, a certain measure of price stability needs to be achieved.
Vivian Fang, is an associate professor and the Honeywell Professor in Accounting in the Carlson School of Management.
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Carter Johnson
Bike friendly includes e-bikes
I just read the article about "Mahtomedi responds to anarchy in on the byways" in the Sept. 17 issue of the Press.
I object to the idea of restricting ebikes from all parks and byways. If you have ridden on the Gateway Trail at all, you would see that the majority of riders have e-bikes. Scooters and motorcycles should be in a different class than e-bikes.
I have seen signs that say a restriction of bikes with a maximum speed of 20 miles/hour. I think this is a reasonable distinction. What is clearly needed is teaching and signage that says "keep right", and "announce passing.” I have been, and seen others, frightened by riders going too fast without announcing their approach.
E-bikes are definitely the popular option today for exercise and being outdoors enjoying Minnesota.
Minnesota is working to be a "bike friendly" place. If e-bikes are not allowed to ride on trails, then what's the point?
Overreach on parking problem
I’m disappointed with how our city chose to solve the parking issues created by the implementation of North Campus as a senior high school. What we needed was a simple solution to keep the students from parking in the adjoining neighborhoods during school
Statewide youth deer season returns Oct. 16-19
Minnesota offers an opportunity for experienced deer hunters to share their knowledge and traditions with youth ages 10-17 during the statewide youth deer season.
The four-day season will take place statewide Thursday, Oct. 16, through Sunday, Oct. 19, and coincides with statewide teacher workshops, when many Minnesota schools are closed for fall break.
Temperatures in the middle of October
days. Instead of enforcing this with a simple tack hammer they instead chose the 20 lb sledge hammer. The city chose to create a “Permit Parking Only” zone of roughly five miles of neighborhood streets with a big solution looking to resolve a small problem. I live on one of those streets just off of Bald Eagle Avenue and we average 10-12 students' cars a day on our street. Yes, I would like the city to eliminate the student parking in front of our house all day as they have, but I feel they went way to far. They’ve adopted a municipal code now in place that states basically, the only people that can park in front of your house in this protected area 24/7 365 days a year is a resident with a proper permit they need to apply for. Well, in 35 years I’ve never parked in front of my house as I have a garage and driveway. Who needs to park in front of my house are my house guests, especially during holidays, weekends and summers when there is no school. Yet the municipal code will still be in force all summer, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and the Fourth of July. The simple solution would have been to couch the Municipal Code and the signs as “Permit Parking Only During School Hours”. Obviously school is not in session during holidays, weekends and summers when the neighborhood typically needs on-street parking for hosting of guests. and then they would simply be allowed to park legally on our streets. Please, City Council and School Board, please reconsider your solution and the overreach of this issue.
Fire chief says calls remain higher than previous year
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — Fire Chief Greg Peterson says calls are trending about 9% higher in 2025 compared to 2024.
“The last two years we have had a decrease each year, but this year we are running higher,” he said. “We will potentially have another record-setting year … it depends on how this year plays out.”
Peterson noted there are various reasons contributing to the increase, including more fire calls, more EMS calls and additional calls related to severe weather. “Anytime we have an event like that take place, we get multiple calls,” he said.
Thankfully, Peterson said the department is well staffed and equipped to handle the call increase. The department currently has three chief officers, one administrative assistant, three full-time captains/paramedics and 15 full-time firefighters/ paramedics. The department aims to have seven full-time firefighters staffed on each shift.
“We are more stabilized now (in terms of staffing levels), and we can get to multiple calls at the same time and in a timely fashion,” he said.
Mayor Dan Louismet wanted to know more about response time. Peterson said overall, they seem to be “improving slightly” because of staffing levels and availability.
Peterson noted a significant townhouse fire that occurred Aug. 16 on Willow Lane, south of County Road E. Three units were involved in the fire, but everyone made it out safely, he noted. Peterson said the cause of the fire was accidental, and the fire was fed by two natural gas lines that severed.
The theme for Fire Prevention Week, which runs Oct. 5-11, is “Charge into Fire Safety,” and is geared at reminding everyone just how dangerous faulty lithium-ion batteries can be.
are warmer than those during the regular November firearm deer season; snow hasn’t typically fallen yet, and deer are moving more during the daylight hours. These factors create an ideal environment for youth interested in deer hunting.
Important information about license and safety requirements for youth hunters and their accompanying adults is available online at mndnr.gov/hunting/deer/youth.html. General deer hunting information is available at mndnr. gov/hunting/deer.
White Bear Lake Area
10-12: Are Sin, Disease, & Death Real? 10-19: Doctrine of Atonement 10-26: Probation After Death
“Three million batteries are sold every year, and most of the time there are no issues,” Peterson said. “When they go wrong, they go wrong very quickly.” Peterson urged people to charge batteries outside, perhaps in a garage, rather than in the house; to only buy “listed” products (not off-brand/ black market); to charge only with the device that came with it; and to always recycle batteries responsibly.
This year, he said, the department has only responded to two minor fires caused by lithium batteries.
The fire department is planning to bring its Citizens Academy back this spring, after a several-year hiatus. Peterson noted the department also has the opportunity for live fire training on a local home scheduled for Nov. 1.
As a reminder to the community, the White Bear Lake Fire Department plans to host its open house from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the station located at 2240 County Road E.
Church Directory
Bev Peterson White Bear Lake
Dennis and Julie Larson White Bear Lake
DNR
COPS&COURTS
The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
Officers responded Sept. 17 to a two-vehicle crash in the 4400 block of White Bear Parkway. No injuries were reported.
• Officers took a fraud report Sept. 17 in the 2300 block of Golfview Drive.
• Officers responded Sept.17 to assist Washington County deputies in breaking up a fight that involved numerous people in the 800 block of Wildwood Road.
• Officers received a complaint Sept. 17 of a motorized scooter in the traffic lane at the intersection of Buerkle Road and White Bear Avenue. The driver was not obstructing traffic.
• Officers responded Sept. 17 to a hit-and-run that occurred near the intersection of Fifth Street and Bald Eagle Avenue. No injuries were reported, and the suspect vehicle was not located.
• Officers assisted the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Sept. 18 to recover a stolen vehicle near the intersection of Highway 61 and Willow Avenue in Vadnais Heights.
• Theft was reported Sept. 18 in the 4700 block of Centerville Road.
• A hit-and-run occurred Sept. 18 near the intersection of Highway 61 and Second Street. No injuries were reported.
• Police responded Sept. 18 to a two-vehicle accident near the intersection of I-694 and White Bear Avenue. No injuries were reported.
• Officers responded Sept. 19 to a report of theft in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road.
• Officers responded to a robbery Sept. 19 that occurred in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road.
• A citizen reported a driver in a beige pickup truck veering toward them Sept. 20 in the 0 block of Fourth Street and dusting them with exhaust. Officers arrived at the scene but were unable to locate the vehicle.
• Officers responded to a report Sept. 20 of individuals attempting to enter a vehicle that wasn’t theirs in the 0 block of Ninth Street.
• Officers responded Sept. 20 to a three-vehicle property damage accident in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway. No injuries were reported.
• Officers were called Sept. 20 to perform a welfare check in the 1300 block of Highway 96. After an investigation, a White Bear Lake man, 49, was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault.
• Officers responded Sept. 20 to a report of theft from a business in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road. The suspect was not identified or located.
• Officers conducted a traffic stop Sept. 21 at the intersection of Auger Avenue and County Road E. A White Bear Lake man, 26, was subsequently arrested and booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center for fourth-degree DWI.
• Officers responded Sept. 22 to a report of an unwelcome guest who refused to leave in the 3500 block of Hoffman Road. Officers learned the subject, a 48-year-old man from Cambridge, had multiple felony warrants. Officers arrived and the subject fled on foot. After a perimeter search and K-9 deployment, officers were unable to locate the suspect. The man returned a few hours later and was taken into custody, pending a new violation of controlled substance in the fifth degree and failure to register for charges.
• Officers spoke with an individual Sept. 22 about a road rage incident that occurred at the intersection of Highway 96 East and Greenhaven Drive.
• An officer conducted a traffic stop Sept. 23 in the 1400 block of Highway 96. A 33-year-old man was arrested and booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center on third-degree DWI charges. Open bottles were found inside the vehicle. The man’s vehicle was towed, and his license plates were impounded.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Grant
• A solicitor on a Segway was reported Aug. 4 for wheeling around the area of the 8000 block of 80th Street N. selling pest control services. On Aug. 7 the solicitor appeared again in the 9000 block of Knollwood Drive selling different extermination services.
• A resident in the 11000 block of Irish Avenue N. on Aug. 5 reported receiving a scam phone call in which an “Officer Shadd” demanded $1,700 from her or there would be a warrant for her arrest. The complainant hung up on the fake officer before any money or information could be exchanged.
• A bag containing a phone was reported found Aug. 5 in the middle of the road in the 7000 block of Jamaca Avenue N. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies did some magic and found the phone’s owner working in a field right down the road and returned it. No magic for the person from the 11000 block of 60th Street who reported a lost wallet on Aug. 5.
Mahtomedi
• A motorist was cited for speeding Aug. 3 in the 3000 block of Century Avenue. A westbound motorist who usurped the right of way Aug. 5 at the intersection of Hilton Trail N. and Stillwater Road to turn left in front of awaiting eastbound through traffic was cited
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township:
Vadnais Heights
• A Vadnais Heights woman reported from the 900 block of Horizon Street on Aug. 13 that she was defrauded of more than $350 by individuals who pretended to be her and paid a Connexus bill. The case is under investigation.
• A woman reporting from the 3200 block of Libby Lane on Aug. 13 reported being defrauded of more than $2,000 by someone pretending to be with a lending company.
• A Bear Avenue resident reported his Chevrolet Silverado damaged by someone attempting to pry open the driver’s side door of the vehicle parked outside his home overnight Aug. 13-14. The door frame and weather stripping were damaged.
• A resident in the 1000 block of County Road D on Aug. 14 reported being defrauded out of $1,500 worth of Bitcoin by individuals who told her she’d won a free phone and needed to send the money first to receive the prize.
Target store employees in the 900 block of County Road E on Aug. 14 reported a woman for stealing more than $1,000 worth of golf balls and refusing to stop when confronted.
• A St. Paul man, 47, was arrested Aug. 14 at the intersection of County Road E and I-35E for driving after cancellation due to unsafe behavior, which is a gross misdemeanor.
• A Marshall man reported a gym bag stolen from his vehicle Aug. 15 while it was parked outside a garage in the 3400 block of Highway 61.
• A Roseville man, 28, was arrested Aug. 15 in the 3900 block of Centerville Road after he destroyed property and interfered with a 911 call made by relatives to report his destructive behavior. An adult sibling fled the scene before deputies arrived and was mailed a citation for misdemeanor domestic assault.
• Deputies tried to initiate a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle on Aug. 16 in the 800 block of County Road E, but the vehicle fled from them in a reckless manner. Deputies started a pursuit but quickly ended it due to public safety concerns on the busy commercial road.
• A Minneapolis man, 21, was arrested on an outstanding warrant from the Anoka
for the violation. A motorist on Century Avenue N. was cited Aug. 6 for driving after revocation, following a traffic stop for an obstructed plate and object suspended from the rearview mirror.
• Hickory Street residents reported someone knocking on their front door at 1:32 a.m. Aug. 5. When the complainants called out asking who was at the door, no one responded. Deputies checked the area and found nothing suspicious, except for maybe some oak trees dropping hard acorns onto houses.
• A property line dispute between neighbors was reported Aug. 5 from an address on 72nd Street N. Deputies advised the complainant that the matter was not a law enforcement issue, but a civil issue.
• A verbal dispute between a mother and daughter reported at 9:32 a.m. Aug. 5 on Woodland Drive resulted in multiple reports and follow-up calls well into the evening.
• A suspicious unaddressed package without a return address delivered to O. H. Anderson Elementary School on Warner Avenue S. on Aug. 5 turned out to be a box of over-the-counter vitamins.
Approximately $20 was reported stolen Aug. 5 from a motor vehicle parked on McGregor Avenue and Stillwater Road.
• An 18-wheeler was reported for trying to turn around in a cul-de-sac on Long Lake Road at 9:50 p.m. Aug. 5 and not making it. The truck caused damage to a lawn and driveway of a private residence. As the semi driver remained on scene, insurance information was exchanged; no citation was issued. At 11:49 p.m., deputies received a complaint about a semi parked on Long Lake Road.
County Sheriff’s Office at 12:20 a.m. Aug. 18 in the 3900 block of Elmwood Street after deputies responded to the report of a suspicious occupied vehicle that had been parked on the street for more than an hour.
• A Little Canada woman, 33, was arrested Aug. 18 in the 40 block of Twin Lake Blvd. for fleeing a peace officer and for interfering with the legal process after she followed another woman in her vehicle, blocked in the other woman’s vehicle in a parking lot and refused to follow directions from deputies who had responded to the report of a dispute. Her case has been forwarded for consideration of charges.
• A resident in the 1100 block of County Road D on Aug. 18 reported that he had accidentally given all his banking information to someone over the phone and is now afraid his finances have been compromised.
A Chicago man, 29, was arrested Aug. 19 for auto theft and for receiving stolen property, after deputies conducted a mobile computer data check in the 800 block of County Road E and discovered a stolen Chevrolet Impala displaying a fraudulent license plate. They conducted the traffic stop after the suspect drove the vehicle away from a bar.
• A woman in the 100 block of Star Circle reported that someone had swindled her out of money on Aug. 20.
White Bear Township
• A 50-year-old Milford, Iowa, woman was issued a citation for misdemeanor theft as well as a trespass notice Aug. 13 at the Cub Foods store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive after she tried to steal more than $100 worth of merchandise from the store.
• A White Bear Lake man, 66, was issued a trespass notice Aug. 20 in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive after he followed up on his wife’s threats to employees of an oil change business by arriving on scene to threaten people.
• A Mounds View man, 55, was arrested on a warrant Aug. 20 at the intersection of I-35E and County Road J after he was pulled over for speeding. During the traffic stop, deputies looked up his information on their database to make sure he was otherwise compliant and discovered his warrant status.
Loretta Harding
• Juveniles were reported for operating motorized scooters in the 1000 block of Park Avenue N. Aug. 6 and almost striking pedestrians. Deputies issued two citations for disorderly conduct Aug. 6 on Woodland Court.
• Church employees on Stillwater Road on Aug. 7 reported a male who had signed up for grocery delivery and other services for not returning the pull cart according to the agreement. Employees said the rules had been made clear and the male still did not follow them. An AirTag installed on the cart was tracked to a nearby apartment building from which the male had been banned. The church requested the male be trespassed from its property as well. The cart was recovered without contact from the male, who will probably not be receiving any more groceries via the church’s cart.
Willernie
• Juveniles seen trying to get into a residence on Stewart Road via the neighbor’s roof at 12:50 a.m. July 27 turned out to be two chimneys on the neighbor’s roof.
• Employees at Domino’s Pizza on Wildwood Road on July 30 reported juveniles for calling the business repeatedly to state that their deliveries did not have the pizza inside.
• An individual was arrested July 30 on Sargent Road for making threats.
Loretta Harding
Man faces felony charges after threatening church staff
BY HOPE MURRAY KANABEC COUNTY TIMES EDITOR
A Mora man is behind bars in Ramsey County after allegedly threatening to kill two Twin Cities music directors.
John Allan Sandeen Jr., 64, is facing several felony charges in both Ramsey and Hennepin counties after allegedly sending emails to two men containing threatening messages.
The messages refer to — and hold the two men and “their cohorts” responsible for — the killing of Charlie Kirk.
According to Ramsey County Court records, a White Bear Lake church music director reported that he had received several threats from Sandeen on his work email.
He also said he had known Sandeen for a long time and recognized the email address.
A threatening mail and the same emails sent to the White Bear Lake director were received by a Maple Grove church music director, who did not know Sandeen, according to Hennepin County Court records.
Ramsey County Court records indicate that on Sept. 7, Sandeen attended a concert at the White Bear Lake Methodist church during which two music directors played a selection of Beatles’ songs.
Prior to their performance of “Fool on the Hill,” the two engaged in banter regarding the song, mentioning Richard Nixon’s work with the FBI in trying to get John Lennon deported.
“I’m sure glad they don’t do that anymore,” said the White Bear Lake director.
“Let’s hear it for ICE,” replied the Maple Grove director. The pair reportedly did not engage in any other political banter during the rest of the performance.
The court record reports, “Sandeen apparently took offense to the stage banter, believing musicians should just shut up and play.”
According to the criminal complaint, the White Bear Lake director received the first email on Sept. 12, in which Sandeen wrote the Maple Grove
director was “going to be with Charlie Kirk. Shut down the politics. I’m not kidding.”
On Sept. 15, Sandeen emailed, “Charlie Kirk was a friend of mine. You let all your liberal leftie friends know that John Sandeen is (expletive) very (expletive) angry. You and them have let the monster out of the (expletive) box.”
That same day, he allegedly wrote his first email to the Maple Grove director: “You and I have a partnership, you think that (ICE) is evil. I think that you and your cohorts have killed my friend Charlie. For this I hold you and your people responsible.
“It’s fair game to let the hunted know that they are hunted. You are now advised.”
In emails to both men, Sandeen allegedly threatens to cut off the Maple Grove director’s head and cut his throat. He also allegedly tells the White Bear Lake director, “Take notice. I, we, are long-range players, from now until your end and your family’s end. The sh**storm is not going to end.”
“These threats are chilling and extremely graphic,” Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said in a statement. “Our community is still reeling from the recent assassination of Rep. Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman, and attempted assassinations of Sen. John Hoffman, Yvette Hoffman, and Rep. Kristin Bahner. We will not tolerate threats of politically motivated violence and will do everything in our power to hold those who make these threats accountable.”
On Sept. 17, Ramsey County officers learned Sandeen was in an airport hangar in Rush City. Officers stopped Sandeen in his Silverado as he was leaving the airport.
According to the criminal complaint, officers executed a search warrant on Sandeen’s Silverado and hangar and recovered a cell phone and multiple electronic tablets. Officers also recovered an electronic tablet, three cell phones, a box of shotgun shells, and a plastic bag of ammunition from the hangar.
According to the criminal complaint, Sandeen was advised of his constitutional rights, and
he agreed to speak to an investigator. Sandeen said he did not know why he was in custody. The investigator told Sandeen it was because people were concerned about emails they had received. Sandeen allegedly claimed he did not know what the investigator was talking about.
“The investigator read Sandeen the email referencing John Lennon having his life taken away. Sandeen admitted he remembered writing the email, but he claimed he was unsure who he sent it to,” the complaint states.
Sandeen added he was probably drunk and added musicians aren’t there to give political opinions; they are there to play music. After admitting that the email address used to send the threats was his, Sandeen suddenly said the investigator was trying to “trap” him and asked for a lawyer.
Sandeen is facing felony charges of stalking and another count of making threats of violence. In Hennepin County, he has been charged with four counts of threats of violence.
The stalking charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $20,000 fine, or both. Each of the other charges include a five-year prison term, a $10,000 fine or both.
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Bicyclist struck by motorist on Dellwood Road
At approximately 8:45 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27 the Washington County Sheriff's Office along with Lakeview Ambulance and the Stillwater Fire Department, responded to the 12000 block of Dellwood Road N in Stillwater Township regarding a traffic accident with injuries. It was reported that a motorist had struck a bicyclist. A male bicyclist was treated on scene and transported to an area hospital in serious condition. The Minnesota State Patrol is assisting the Washington County Sheriff's Office with the investigation.
Brothers charged in $8 million armed crypto-kidnapping heist
Raymond Christian Garcia, 23, and Isiah Angelo Garcia, 24, were charged federally with kidnapping for allegedly engaging in a kidnapping and cryptocurrency heist where they held a family at gunpoint for nine hours and stole $8 million in crypto currency. The incident forced Mahtomedi Public Schools to cancel its homecoming football game for the safety of its community.
A news release issued by the United States Attorney’s Office provides the following account of the incident.
“A violent kidnapping that stole $8 million and silenced a homecoming game is not just a crime. It is a blow to the sense of safety of everyone in Minnesota,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “This is not normal. Minnesotans should not accept wild violence and thievery as normal. Every Minnesotan deserves to live in peace and a life unaffected by rampant crime.”
At 4:45 p.m. on Sept. 19, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call from an adult male who reported that he and his family had been victims of an armed robbery and kidnapping by two adult male suspects and had been held hostage at gunpoint within their residence in Grant. The 911 caller reported that he, his father (Victim 1), and his mother had been held hostage.
At 7:45 a.m. that morning, Victim 1 was taking out a garbage can to the street when the Garcia brothers suddenly appeared and pointed an AR15-style rifle and a shotgun at Victim 1. The Garcia brothers took Victim 1 into the garage where they bound his hands with zip ties. They then brought Victim 1 into the house. The Garcia brothers woke up Victim 1’s wife and adult son at gunpoint. They also zip tied their hands and forced them to lie on the floor.
Defendant Raymond Garcia held the wife and son in their home for nine hours. Raymond Garcia was armed with the AR-15-style rifle for the duration of the kidnapping. About
ISD 624
15 minutes before the son called 911, Raymond Garcia left the home out the back door with the AR-15-style rifle, heading towards the tree line. Raymond Garcia returned to the home shortly thereafter, without the rifle.
Meanwhile, while Raymond Garcia held the wife and son hostage, defendant Isiah Garcia forced Victim 1 at gunpoint to log into his cryptocurrency accounts. Isiah Garcia demanded that Victim 1 transfer large amounts of cryptocurrency into a cryptocurrency wallet that Isiah Garcia provided. During the robbery, Victim 1 saw both Garcia brothers frequently making phone calls to an unknown third party, who appeared to be providing the information related to the cryptocurrency accounts and transfers.
Through this third party, the Garcia brothers became aware that Victim 1 had additional cryptocurrency funds. They demanded the money. Victim 1 explained that the remaining funds were on a hard drive-style cryptocurrency wallet that was stored at a family cabin approximately three hours away.
Victim 1 to transfer $8 million worth of cryptocurrency to their wallets.
As Isiah Garcia and Victim 1 were returning to the home, Victim 1’s son used the moments that Raymond Garcia left the home to call 911.
“A violent kidnapping that stole $8 million and silenced a homecoming game is not just a crime. It is a blow to the sense of safety of everyone in Minnesota.”
Joseph H. Thompson Acting U.S. Attorney
Isiah Garcia, armed with the shotgun, then forced Victim 1 into Victim 1’s truck. Isiah Garcia drove the truck and Victim 1 to the family’s cabin to retrieve the hard drive. All the while, Raymond Garcia held Victim 1’s wife and son hostage with the AR-15-style rifle. At the cabin, Victim 1 transferred the remaining funds to the cryptocurrency wallet provided by Isiah Garcia. Isiah Garcia then drove Victim 1 back towards Victim 1’s home.
In total, the Garcia brothers forced
Washington County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene following the 911 call and found the wife and son zip tied in the house. As they arrived, Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies saw a man, later identified as Raymond Garcia, running out the back door. When law enforcement searched the area around the home, they located a suitcase in the tree line. In the suitcase, they found a disassembled AR-15-style rifle, AR-15 ammunition, as well as clothing items and beverages. Multiple squads responded to the 911 call, some of whom unknowingly passed Isiah Garcia and Victim 1 as they pulled over to allow the emergency vehicles to pass. Isiah Garcia turned the truck around, parked it nearby, and walked towards a nearby middle school parking lot. Isiah Garcia ditched the shotgun in a nearby field.
To protect the safety of the community, Mahtomedi Public Schools was forced to cancel its homecoming football game in response to the ongoing law enforcement activity near the campus.
Using a Wendy’s receipt located in the suitcase recovered behind Victim 1’s house, law enforcement was able to determine that Isiah Garcia had rented a white Chevrolet three days prior to the kidnapping, near Houston, Texas. Law enforcement also located video surveillance showing that Raymond Garcia rented a Motel
6 room in Roseville, Minnesota, shortly before the kidnapping. Law enforcement saw that, shortly after law enforcement responded to the scene of the kidnapping, the white Malibu returned to the Motel 6. The next day, law enforcement spotted the car on cameras in Oklahoma. On September 21, 2024, law enforcement tracked the car back to the home of the Garcia brothers in Waller, Texas. After returning to Texas, Raymond Garcia reported that his AR-15-style firearm that he used in the kidnapping and robbery had been stolen.
On Sept. 22 law enforcement arrested the Garcia brothers in Texas. Once in custody, Isiah Garcia confessed. He admitted that he and his brother Raymond Garcia had driven to Minnesota, held Victim 1 and his family at gunpoint, tied them up using zip ties, and driven Victim 1 to the family cabin. On Sept. 23, the Garcia brothers were charged by complaint in Washington County with three counts of kidnapping with a firearm, one count of first-degree aggravated robbery, and three counts of firstdegree burglary.
On Sept. 24, the Garcia brothers were both charged in a federal complaint with kidnapping. Both defendants made their initial appearances in federal court Sept. 25 and the government requested their detention pending trial.
Per the news release, FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston, Sr. issued the following statement. “As alleged in the complaint, the Garcia brothers terrorized a Minnesota family in their own home, kidnapping one family member while holding the rest of the family hostage in order to conduct a brazen cryptocurrency theft. This office, together with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners in Minnesota and in Texas, will work tirelessly to hold accountable those responsible for this horrific crime.”
U.S. Attorney’s Office
Board approves preliminary tax levy ceiling for 2026-2027 school year
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The school board has approved a preliminary maximum property tax levy increase of just over $3,080,000, or 4.75%, for the 2026-2027 school year, payable 2026. Throughout August and September, the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) calculates an estimated levy amount for the next school year. White Bear Lake Area Schools Director of Finance Andi Johnson explained that school districts almost always approve the highest possible preliminary amount so that they can have flexibility as MDE adjusts its
numbers for the final total. Were ISD 624 to approve less than the maximum, it would legally be unable to change that ceiling should the need arise in the coming months.
“Property taxes make up 20-25% of our general fund,” Johnson noted. “It’s an important funding stream for the school district.”
Board Member Jessica Ellison stated that this is not a system unique to White Bear; this is how school districts are funded across the country.
Paradoxically, while the property tax levy is increasing, Johnson explained that the average property owner will likely pay less. “The total revenue that we’re going to be receiving is going to go up,” Johnson said, “but there’s a higher amount of property in the school district. There’s new construction and new businesses coming in, so that’s spread over the entire property value (of the district).”
Board Chair Dr. Scott Arcand asked Johnson, “What control do we have in this room on the evaluation of our homes?”
“None,” Johnson replied. “That’s done by the county.” Upon hearing this, Arcand suggested that residents in the district who have issues with property tax increases should bring their issue to the county.
The school board is set to approve the final levy at the Dec. 8 meeting following a public hearing.
DOG BEACH: City staff present findings
Kauppi noted that the parks commission has previously identified that site as a possible option, but each time noted the challenges that would come with it. On the positive side, it has good access, parking, proximity to the trail system and good shoreline and water conditions.
However, Kauppi noted the site would require extensive physical improvements, including fencing and buoys, since it is located in a busy area and there are no natural boundaries. “It is right in the heart of where a lot of activity is happening; boats going in and out of the loop, traffic in and out of the island, entrance and exits of boat trailer parking,” he said.
Council Member Bill Walsh pointed out that some of the improvements that exist at the current beach, could be shifted and reused at Site 8. He wondered if Site 8 would alleviate some of the concerns with the current location regarding barking. “Does moving it down the lake a little bit solve some of that? Is it further away from homes or are we shifting it closer to other homes?”
Kauppi explained the beach’s current location has a hillside that “shields the majority” of the noise from the adjacent homes. He also noted that due to the busy area of site 8, dogs might have more distractions and be more apt to bark.
City staff also contacted the Ramsey County Parks Department to inquire whether there were any regional plans for dog swimming areas and the possibility of using the Bald Eagle-Otter Lake Regional Park boat launch. The county said that there were no plans for dog swimming areas and that the county’s park system is considered a natural resource-based park system dedicated to protecting wildlife and their habitats. To minimize impacts on those resources, Kauppi reported, dogs are required to be leashed throughout the park system and in highly sensitive environmental natural areas, such as Tamarack Nature Center, dogs are banned entirely. The county currently has land at four designated off-leash dog areas, which have been established to allow dogs to run freely while ensuring the protection of wildlife and natural areas in the rest of the parks. None of those locations have swimming areas available for dogs.
“I’m not surprised that there aren’t any suitable alternatives … The parks commission and the then-city engineer went through this exercise in 2018 as a result of the same complaints,” said Mayor Dan Louismet. “I think it is pretty clear that there aren’t other attractive alternatives based on this criteria.”
Louismet recommended city staff and the council evaluate whether the two changes they made this year (leash requirement and the new community service officer position) made a difference in lowering complaints from neighboring residents.
Weather Tidbits
“We did implement two new tools in an attempt to alleviate that and it remains to be seen whether that has improved or not,” he said, pointing out that the council could discuss that at a future meeting.
City Manager Lindy Crawford said the city really needed another year to evaluate the changes. She explained that the city got a late start on hiring the new community service officer and a couple of hires ended up not working out for different reasons.
“The chief tells me that they spent many hours out there, whether it was educational or for citing, I’m not sure. I don’t have that information,” Crawford said.
Kauppi said he recently spoke to Police Chief Dale Hager, who shared that the department had made just under 200 visits to the dog beach — largely focused on education — and that there had only been seven citations.
“As the summer went along, they definitely saw more and more compliance with leashes,” Kauppi said.
Council Member Kevin Edberg said he spent about 30 hours sitting by the lake over the summer and tracked all sorts of things, including barking, leash compliance, number of people, number of dogs, etc.
“I would say that we did not achieve high levels of compliance with the leash ordinance in the park,” Edberg said, adding that he did see high levels of compliance in other places like along the trail on Lake Avenue.
Edberg added that he didn’t think the community service officer position was effective this year due to the late start, but he did think it made sense to have a dedicated officer patrolling the lakeshore.
The council asked for Hager to share an update at his next biannual report to the council, which is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 14.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com
It’s been a week of mixed weather. Some sun followed by off and on showers. Temperatures for the most part have been seasonable with some chilly mornings. Frank, what are you talking about!? Weather has been spectacular. Temperatures have been warmer than normal, and it’s been dry. Oh, did I forget to tell you I’m back in the old country? The native land of my grandparents, Italy. Watson may not sound Italian but how about Ponticiello? Oddly I’m about at the same latitude, 45 deg. north, as the Twin Cities so I’ve been experiencing sunrise and sunset times. After a few days in Florence, I’m now in San Donato experiencing the Italian countryside and heading out for a hike. No changes in the color of the leaves here, yet. Note: I’m looking for pictures for my 2026 Watson Weather Calendar. Email watsonwx@aol.com. Thanks!
Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.
ORCHID RESTAURANT: ‘The Best’
contests, along with Best Stir Fry in the Shoreview Press.
It also finished as a finalist for Pho Soup in the Quad and Shoreview markets along with Fried Rice, Chow Mein and Stir Fry in White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights.
“It means a lot. It is a blessing,” said owner Ninh Nguyen. “We are happy to serve the customers in this area. We really appreciate our customers. They are really loyal.”
The business, located by Emagine White Bear, has been owned and operated by the Nguyen family for over 20 years. The family also owns two restaurants in France, which inspires the distinctive flavors of Vietnamese and French cooking represented on Orchid’s menu.
Customers will also find Chinese and Thai dishes as well as children, vegetarian and gluten-free options.
“People love our egg rolls and cream cheese wontons,” Nguyen said. “They aren’t the same as anywhere else.” He added that their chicken entrees are also popular.
Why does the business continue to be popular among voters? Nguyen said in addition to a focus on customer service, they work hard to maintain an “upscale” and clean environment.
“We try to concentrate on customer service. We want our customers to be happy,” he said.
We cook how we would eat … If
it is good enough for me, then the customer will like it.”
Business is down 15 to 20% as a result of the ongoing construction related to the I-35E and County Road J project. “We are still open during construction,” Nguyen said.
For more information on Orchid Restaurant, visit www.orchidrestaurant.com.
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
Frank Watson
CONTRIBUTED
The one site that could be a viable option is site 8, located on the south side of Matoska Boat Launch.
Orchid has a full service bar including beer, wine, specialty drinks and more.
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
In addition to cream cheese wontons and egg rolls, chicken entrees and fried rice are popular at the White Bear Township business.
Ukrainians discuss resilience, hope through Rotary Club
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
The day of Feb. 24, 2022, marked a turning point in the Russia-Ukraine conflict that had begun eight years prior: completely unprovoked, Russia launched a full-scale invasion into Ukraine, causing untold devastation, death and instability all across the world.
But amid the chaos comes hope and resilience. Through the White Bear Lake Rotary Club’s Open World delegation, Ukrainian specialists and service personnel are sharing their stories of strength and resilience in addressing veteran support issues, including government policy, polytrauma, mental health and prosthetics.
“It’s been a cool, interactive opportunity not only benefiting the delegates from past years but also our Rotary Club,” said Rotarian Greg
Bartz. “This has been more of an emotional group because of the war. It’s interesting to see how much of a network there is for veteran support in this country.”
The club’s delegation is structured as an “immersive program,” lasting one week and featuring a mix of professional meetings and social events to foster partnerships and friendships. Through the delegation, these individuals have been guests at various locations during their stay, including the Protez Foundation in Oakdale, the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Minneapolis and other support programs throughout the state.
Among them is Anastasiia Pampukha, who works for Patients for Ukraine, an organization that helps Ukrainians access state-guaranteed medical services and medicines. In her role, Pampukha leads a team that drafts legislation for veterans’
rehabilitation services. The bills are then sent to the government for further discussion and approval.
“When it comes to the support of veterans, the biggest challenge that exists in Ukraine is that the government does not reach out to everyone and everywhere,” said Pampukha. “There is the support that is being sent from upstairs to downstairs, but it doesn’t really get to the first floor. Somewhere on the third floor is the community that wants to help, but they do not have the resources that the government has sent because they have stalled on the third or second floor.”
Another major issue facing wounded Ukrainian service members comes down to obtaining high-quality prosthetics for amputees. By law, the government cannot spend more than $100,000 equivalent on one device and/ or patient.
“In many cases, that is not enough, and not all the amputees who need those may receive that worth of a prosthesis unit,” said Pampukha.
“We rely on our American friends to keep telling the United States and its leadership about the big need of continuing this support. This is very important for us. The reason we need support is because we are fighting something way bigger.”
For Oleksandra Varchak, press secretary for the International Institute of Postgraduate Education in Kyiv, the war hits differently: her brother is currently in the conflict itself, which she says leaves her with uncertainty and inspiration about his whereabouts.
“I personally have the experience of hoping and sometimes being in the dark as to what is happening to him. I understand all these families who
are stressed because of how many casualties there are, and who are not sure about what is going to happen to them. This motivates me, because I know that I am not the only one, and that I have other people who are going through the same.”
Varchak focuses on training and retraining psychologists who use their expertise to help service members cope with trauma. The invasion, she notes, marked a significant shift in how the country’s health care specialists respond to these issues.
“When the invasion started, we realized we needed to add lots of training to the existing knowledge of our health care specialists, as well as additional knowledge of how to deal with various mental traumas of service people, including PTSD and traumatic brain injuries.”
Through a restructuring process developed with Regent University in Virginia, Varchak says the organization’s training program has been effectively reshaped in a shorter time without compromising quality. “This is a compacted two-and-a-halfyear training program that we can deliver without losing any quality, which we could have lost during the transition or reshaping of the educational process.”
To learn more about the Protez Foundation, Patients for Ukraine and the International Institute of Postgraduate Education, visit their respective websites at www. protezfoundation.org, www.patients. org.ua/en/ and www.ircep.org
PHOTOS
Through the delegation, Ukranian specialists/personnel have visited various locations, including the Protez Foundation and Veterans Affairs Hospital in Minneapolis. Through the White Bear Lake Rotary Club’s Open World delegation, Ukranian
and service personnel have gathered to share stories of strength in addressing veteran support issues.
Salvation Army kicks off ‘Coats For Kids’ campaign
The Salvation Army in the Twin Cities has launched its annual “Coats For Kids” campaign to collect warm weather gear for Twin Cities children in need. Due to continued higher costs
for food, gas, rent and utilities, the cost of winter wear is an additional stressor for families who will be struggling with financial pressures again this winter. The public can help by donating new or gently used coats for children and youth of all ages—as well as winter accessories like hats, mittens, gloves,
boots and snow pants. Coats are needed in all sizes, including adult sizes for high school-aged youth. The “Coats For Kids” drive runs through Saturday, Oct. 11.
Coats and other winter wear can be dropped off at:
• Salvation Army Division Headquarters, 2445 Prior Ave. N., Roseville
• Maplewood Salvation Army, 2080 Woodlynn Ave., Maplewood
• Blaine Salvation Army at Anoka County Service Center, 1201 89th Ave. NE, Blaine Families that need coats this winter or those who want more information should visit GiveCoats.org.
CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The City of Vadnais Heights is requesting proposals for fully-insured Group Medical insurance. The RFP (with submission instructions, general information and all pertinent underwriting details) can be obtained by contacting Beth Klimmek at Gallagher Benefit Services – Phone: 952-345-2312 –Email: beth_klimmek@ajg.com – 3600 American Blvd W, Suite 500, Bloomington, MN 55431. All questions regarding this RFP should be directed to Beth Klimmek at Gallagher Benefit Services. Quoting carriers must provide a proposal via email, following the instructions outlined in the RFP no later than 2:00 pm on October 21, 2025. Proposals received after the deadline will be considered late and ineligible for consideration. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 1, 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:
Wild Hare Screen Printing Company
2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:
594 Monn Ave.
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
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.
Timothy J McLaughlin
594 Monn Ave.
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
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: September 20, 2025
Signed: Timothy McLaughlin
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 1 and 8, 2025.
HB FOUNDATION NOTICE TO CREDITORS
To Creditors and Claimants of HB Foundation:
Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Chapter 317A, HB Foundation (the “Corporation”) hereby gives you notice as follows:
1. The Corporation is in the process of dissolving pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Chapter 317A;
2. The Corporation has filed a Notice of Intent to Dissolve with the Minnesota Secretary of State;
3. The date of filing the Notice of Intent to Dissolve was September 25, 2025;
4. Written claims against the Corporation may be presented in care of Heidi Christianson, Nilan Johnson Lewis PA, 250 Marquette Avenue South, Suite 800, Minneapolis, MN 55401; and
5. All claims must be received by the Corporation within ninety (90) days after the date this notice was first published pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 317A.727, subd. 2(5). Published four times in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 1, 8, 15 and 22, 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-PRMG34604-KB OPENING DATE: 10/23/2024
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, SEEKS A PRIME CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE ALL SUPPLIES, MATERIALS, EQUIPMENT, LABOR AND INCIDENTALS FOR THE LANDMARK CENTER NORTH TOWER ROOF AND LIGHTING PROJECT.
PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: LANDMARK CENTER, 75 W 5TH STREET, ST PAUL, MN 55102, OCTOBER 9, 2025, 9:30 AM CST SOLICITATION: RFB-PRMG33354-KB
OPENING DATE: OCTOBER 30, 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 RAMSEY COUNTY CORRECTIONAL FACILITY MEZZANINE BARRIER PROJECT, LOCATED AT 297 CENTURY AVENUE SOUTH, SAINT PAUL, MN.
PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: CORRECTIONAL FACILITY, 297 CENTURY AVENUE SOUTH, ST PAUL, MN 55119; OCTOBER 20, 2025, 2:30 PM CST. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 1, 2025. RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:01 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.
AGENDA of September 16, 2025 was presented for approval. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. MINUTES of September 2, 2025 were presented for approval. Motion by Miller, seconded by McMurtrey. Unanimously approved.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner McMurtrey.
PROCLAMATION
Workforce Solutions – Proclamation: Workforce Development Month. Presented by Commissioner McGuire. Discussion can be found on archived video.
ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS
Board of Commissioners – Purdue Pharma, L.P. Settlement (United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York Court File No. 1923649. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-165)
Safety and Justice – Grant Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for Ramsey County Youth Support Services. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-166)
Public Health – Grant Agreement from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for Sexual Assault Services. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-167)
Housing Stability – Grant Award from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Continuum of Care Planning Grant. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025168)
Housing Stability – Grant Agreement with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Heading Home Ramsey Continuum of Care Planning Grant. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-169)
Property Management – Agreement with Jorgenson Construction, Inc. for Judicial Chambers Room 12D Remodel Project. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-170)
Property Management – First Amendment to Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Minnesota Second Judicial District for Project Work Orders. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-171)
Parks & Recreation – Lease Agreement with New Brighton Area Historical Society for Premises at Long Lake Regional Park. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-172)
Human Resources – Hold Closed Meeting: Strategy for Labor Negotiations. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025173)
Housing Stability – Grant Award from the Minnesota Department of Human Services, Homelessness, Housing and Support Services Division for the Emergency Services Program Grant. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2025-174)
POLICY ITEM
Property Management – Guaranteed Energy Savings Project with inBYLT, LLC. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Xiong. For information and discussion only. This item was tabled. Discussion can be found on archived video.
COUNTY CONNECTIONS
Presented by County Manager, Ling Becker. Discussion can be found on archived video.
OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS
Discussion can be found on archived video.
BOARD CHAIR UPDATE
Presented by Chair Ortega. Discussion can be found on archived video.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:19 a.m.
CLOSED MEETING
Pursuant to Minnesota Statues Section 13D.03 (Labor Negotiations) in order to discuss negotiations with impacted labor unions to bargain the effects of eliminating positions in the proposed 2026-27 budget, the Ramsey County Board met in a closed meeting, which is not open to the public.
In Re Labor Negotiation Strategy.
The closed Meeting was called to order at 10:39 a.m.
The following members present: Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega.
Also present: Ling Becker, County Manager, Johanna Berg, Deputy County Manager, Organizational Alignment; Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney Office; Patience Ferguson, Chief Human Resources Officer, Human Resources; Kristen Schultz, Benefits Manager, Human Resources; Wesley DeBerry, Labor Relations Specialist, Human Resources; Alex Kotze, Chief Finance Officer, Finance; Elizabeth Brady, Senior Assistant County Attorney, County Attorney’s Office; Larry Timmerman, Manager, Policy and Planning; Deanna Pesik, Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer, Compliance and Ethics Office; Jason Yang, Chief Clerk – County Board, County Manager’s Office.
The closed meeting was adjourned at 11:57 a.m.
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 1, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, SCOTT COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT
COURT FILE NO. 70-FA-19-11384 CASE TYPE: DOMESTIC ABUSE
NOTICE OF ISSUANCE OF EMERGENCY (EX PARTE) ORDER FOR PROTECTION BY PUBLICATION (Minn. Stat. § 518B.01, subd. 8)
In the Matter of: Barbara Jean Henkemeyer, Petitioner vs. Douglas Michael DesRosier, Respondent
To Respondent named above: YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an Ex Parte Order for Protection has been issued in the above matter. You may request a hearing if you contact the court administrator’s office within 12 days of the date of publication of this notice. You may obtain a copy of the Ex Parte Order for Protection and the form to request a hearing from the court administrator’s office at the following address: Scott County Court Administration, Courthouse, 200 Fourth Ave. W, Shakopee, MN 55379.
Failure to request a hearing or to obtain a copy of the Ex Parte Order will not be a defense to prosecution for violation of the Court’s order.
Date: August 20, 2025
Audrey K. Brown, Deputy Court Administrator
Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on October 1, 2025.
CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY FOUNDATION
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND CLAIMANTS
This notice is published pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 317A.727, regarding dissolution of nonprofit organizations.
1. Children’s Home Society Foundation, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation, (the “Corporation”) is in the process of dissolving.
2. The Corporation has filed a Notice of Intent to Dissolve with the Minnesota Secretary of State.
3. The Notice of Intent to Dissolve was filed on September 15, 2025.
4. Written claims against the Corporation must be presented to the Corporation, c/o Angela T. Fogt, 2200 Wells Fargo Center, 90 South Seventh Street, Minneapolis, MN 55402.
5. Claims must be received at the above address no later than December 23, 2025.
CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY FOUNDATION
Date: 9/9/2025
By Lance Novak, Chair
Published four times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 24, October 1, 8 and 15, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY
DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT
PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-797
NOTICE FOR REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR SUMMARY ASSIGNMENT OR DISTRIBUTION AND FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, EXEMPT ESTATE
In re the Estate of: Elsa Kajsa Linnea Knopp, a/k/a Kajsa Knopp and Kaisa Knopp, Decedent. Notice is given that a petition has been filed requesting that the Estate
assets be summarily assigned and distributed without probate administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.
The Petition also requests the probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated July 28, 1981 (“Will”).
Any objections to the Petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper, and no objections or claims are filed, the Court may issue a decree distributing or assigning the Estate’s assets. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.
Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Petition will be heard by this Court using remote technology via zoom on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 1:45 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that this Notice shall be published once per week for two consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in Ramsey County and a copy of this Notice shall be mailed at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons (Minn. Stat. 524.1-401) and persons who have filed a demand for notice pursuant to Minn. Stat. 524.3-204.
BY THE COURT:
Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator
BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator
Date: September 10, 2025
Attorney for Petitioner:
Kathryn J. Barnes
121 W. Main St., Suite 200, Waconia, MN 55387 (952) 442-7700; kbarnes@mhslaw.com
Minnesota Attorney ID Number: 0387170
Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 24 and October 1, 2025.
STATE OF MINNESOTA, DAKOTA COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NUMBER: 19WS-FA-19-290 CASE TYPE: FAMILY
NOTICE OF MOTION AND MOTION FOR CHANGE OF CUSTODY
In Re the Marriage of:
Patrick Gerard Ferguson, Petitioner and Keisha Lynn Brown, Respondent To: Keisha Lynn Brown, St. Paul, MN.
NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on Zoom, 5-19-25 at 1 p,m. before Morales, I will ask the Court for an Order granting the following relief: MOTION
1. Jordan Lanar Ferguson, child.
2. The current order or judgement and decree regarding custody, which I am now seeking to change, is dated 6-28-24.
3. I would like the Court to amend the current order for legal custody of the minor child, to sole legal custody to Patrick Gerard Ferguson.
4. I would like the Court to amend the current order for physical custody of the minor child to sole physical custody to Patrick Gerard Ferguson.
5. I ask the Court to change the parenting time schedule as set forth in my Affidavit.
6. I ask the Court to determine each party’s obligation to pay child support, including medical and child care support, to the other party in regard to the children in his or her physical custody.
7. N/A
8. I request such other and further relief as the Court may deem just, fair and equitable.
VERIFICATION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
a) I have read this document. To the best of my knowledge, information and belief, the information contained in this document is well grounded in fact and is warranted by existing law.
b) I have not been determined by any Court in Minnesota or in any other state to be a frivolous litigant and I am not the subject of an Order precluding me from serving or filing this document.
c) I am not serving or filing this document for any improper purpose, such as to harass the other party or to cause delay or needless increase in the cost of litigation or to commit a fraud on the Court.
d) I understand that if I am not telling the truth, or if I am misleading the Court or serving or filing this document for an improper purposed, the Court can order me to pay money to the other party, including the reasonable expenses incurred by the other party because of filing or serving this document, court costs, and reasonable attorney’s fees.
Notice to the Other Party
After you receive these papers, if you want to respond to anything raised by the other party in his papers, your written response must be personally served on the other party at least 7 days before the hearing, or mailed to the other party at least 10 days before the hearing. Responsive papers are available from the Court Administrator’s office and online at https://mncourts.gov/ getforms/child-custody-parenting-time/forms-packet-response-to-requestfor-change-of-custody. Your responsive papers must be filed with the Court Administrator at least 7 days before the hearing.
If you want to raise new issues at the hearing the other party has scheduled, your Motion and Affidavit must be personally served on the other party at least 14 days before the hearing or mailed to the other party at least 17 days before the hearing. Your papers raising new issues must be filed with the District Court Administrator at least 14 days before the hearing.
Date: 4-28-25
Patrick Ferguson
AFFIDAVIT IN SUPPORT OF MOTION TO CHANGE CUSTODY
In Re the Marriage of:
Patrick Gerard Ferguson, Petitioner and Keisha Lynn Brown, Respondent
My name is Patrick Gerard Ferguson, and I state that:
1. I am the Petitioner and I make this Affidavit in support of my Motion to Change Custody. My relationship to the child is Father.
2. There is no child protection case.
3. There is no Order for Protection.
4. The child lives with the Respondent who is the child’s Mother. The children live in St. Paul, MN.
5. The current custody order which I am requesting be modified is dated 6-28-25.
6. The current order grants joint legal custody to both parties.
7. Legal custody identified which parent has the right to make decision regarding the upbringing of the child including education, health care and religious training. I want to change legal custody to sole legal custody in favor of Patrick Gerard Ferguson.
8. The current order grants joint physical custody to both parties.
9. Physical custody identifies the person with whom the child will live. I want to change physical custody to sole physical custody in favor of Patrick Gerard Ferguson.
10. I want to change physical and/or legal custody, or modify a parenting plan provision specifying the child’s primary residence, because: A change of custody is in the best interests of the child and the parties previously agreed, in a writing approved by a court, to apply the best interests standard from Minnesota Statutes section 518.17 or 257.025. The court made a finding in the Order approving the agreement that the parties were fully informed, the agreement was voluntary, and the parties were aware of it implication. Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 24, October 1 and 8, 2025.
CITY BRIEF
City seeking full-time fire captain
The city is seeking applicants for a full-time fire captain position within its fire department.
The position is a full-time role working 24-hour shifts and will involve supervising on-shift firefighters as well as participating in emergency and nonemergency
operations. Other responsibilities will include performing all fire and emergency medical service functions and ensuring that all assigned activities are conducted effectively and in accordance with department policies.
The captain may also serve as the incident commander on emergency scenes as well as a shift training officer. They will also perform related
fire prevention activities, facility maintenance and housekeeping functions as assigned.
The position is subject to a 12-month probationary period and will work a 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. scheduled shift Monday through Friday until all necessary onboarding and training has been completed. It will then transition into a rotating 24-hour shift schedule.
Applications will be accepted through 8 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13. The first round of interviews is expected to take place the week of Oct. 20, with testing and second interviews the following week. Those interested in applying can fill out a form at www. cityvadnaisheights.com/Jobs.aspx.
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF SALE OF TAX FORFEITED LANDS
ONLINE SALES TERMS AND CONDITIONS
ramseycounty.us/productiveproperties
Please carefully review all the terms and conditions contained in this document. Some of the terms and conditions in this document will be included in the deed you receive if you are a successful bidder. You are encouraged to have a qualified attorney review this document.
ONLINE SALES: This public sale is guided by Minnesota Statutes, section 282.005. Some key Terms and Conditions are as follows: 1.) the initial price of each property is equal to the estimated market value (“EMV Auction Price”), as determined by the most recent assessment; 2.) the sale will be sold to the highest bidder, but for no less than the initial EMV Auction Price for 30 days after it is initially made available at auction; 3.) if no buyer is willing to pay the initial EMV Auction Price, the price for each property must be reduced to the minimum bid amount, as defined by Minnesota Statutes, section 282.005, subdivision 2 (“Minimum Bid Auction”) and will run for an additional 10 days; 4.) if no buyer is willing to pay the minimum bid, properties will be removed from auction, the state is deemed to have purchased the property through a credit bid, and parcels may be disposed of as otherwise provided in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 282. The EMV Auction Price and Minimum Bid Auction Price are set forth in the 2025-2 AUCTION LIST
The public sale will be held via online auction and conducted by the Minnesota Department of Administration, Fleet & Surplus Division, using their MNBid website. The EMV auction will open for bids on October 27, 2025 and will close on November 26, 2025. The Minimum Bid auction will open for bids on November 27, 2025 and will close on December 8, 2025.
AUCTION REGISTRATION: All bidders must register by providing a Driver’s License or other acceptable photo ID and registering though the State of Minnesota’s MNBid site.
PROHIBITED PURCHASERS OR BIDDERS: No person or entity, or entity controlled by such person, that (1) is an owner or taxpayer of real property situated in Ramsey County that has delinquent property taxes, (2) has held a rental license in Ramsey County and the license has been revoked within the last five years, or is currently the subject of a revocation proceeding, (3) currently has a contract for purchase of tax-forfeited lands for a structure that does not meet the requirements of a code compliance inspection report or home inspection report issued within the past year, and has not filed a certificate of code compliance with the Tax-Forfeited Land section or successfully finalized and closed-out all permits through the city in which the parcel is located, or (4) within the past five years, has had a contract for purchase of tax-forfeited lands cancelled, or currently subject to cancellation. After a winning bid, but prior to closing, a search will be performed to determine if the winning bidder is a prohibited purchaser or bidder and closing of the sale will not take place until the search verifies the winning bidder is not a prohibited purchaser or bidder. In the event a winning bid has been awarded to a prohibited bidder or purchaser, the property will be offered to the 2nd highest eligible bidder, and then the 3rd highest bidder, until all bidders have been exhausted. In the event all bidders have been exhausted, the property may be re-offered at a future auction, or placed on the over-the-counter sales list, at the sole discretion of Ramsey County.
ADDITIONAL PROHIBITED PURCHASERS OR BIDDERS: None of the following individuals (either personally or as an agent or attorney for any other person) may bid on and purchase a parcel of tax-forfeited land unless the parcel was owned by the individual before forfeiture: district court administrators, county auditors, treasurer, assessors or supervisors of assessments, land commissioners or assistant land commissioners for taxforfeited lands, or any deputies or employees of any of the above individuals. (M.S. 282.016)
YOU MUST FOLLOW THE ALL INSTRUCTIONS OR ELSE YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BIDDING PROCESS. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE!
CLOSING PROCESS & PAYMENT TERMS: There are several steps required to close the sale after a property has been won at auction. This process follows:
Buyer wins high bid on an auction property
MNBID Surplus Services sends Buyer an Award Letter serving to notice the Buyer they have won PAYMENT 1. Within fourteen (14) business days from the date of the bid award, buyer shall submit payment to “Surplus Services” by either mailing or physically dropping off Cashier’s Check or Money Order made payable to “Surplus Services” at 5420 Old Highway 8, Arden Hills, MN 55112. Please contact mnsurplus.auction@state.mn.us or 651-639-4022 for assistance in completing this first payment. THE AMOUNT OF THIS PAYMENT IS THE WINNING BID AMOUT AS LISTED ON THE AWARD LETTER
MNBID Surplus Services remits payment and contact information of winning bidders to Ramsey County Productive Properties staff
Ramsey County staff will contact Buyer to schedule a closing with Ramsey County and provide Buyer with a cost sheet breaking down the additional costs to close. PAYMENT 2. At this closing, Buyer will fill out a simple Closing Information Form and provide certified funds made out to “Ramsey County” to pay for the additional statutory fees required upon the purchase of taxforfeited property. At the closing with Ramsey County, Buyer must provide funds for the following: 3% Assurance Fee; State Deed Recording Fee; Deed Preparation Fee; and Deed Tax. An example of expected costs can be found on the next page of these terms.
Once Ramsey County has received the Closing Information Form and Funds to Close, staff will send in deed application to the Minnesota Department of Revenue. The state deed is generally returned to the county within 2-6 weeks and will be sent for recording. Once the deed has been recorded, Ramsey County staff will mail out the deed to the buyer.
BIDDER DISQUALIFICATION: In the event a bidder wins a property auction but fails to complete the closing requirements within the required timeframe, that winning bidder will not be eligible to purchase any other properties during this auction, and the property will be offered to the 2nd highest eligible bidder at their winning bid amount, and then the 3rd highest bidder, until all bidders have been exhausted. In the event all bidders have been exhausted, the property may be re-offered at a future auction, or placed on the over-the-counter sales list, at the sole discretion of Ramsey County.
PROPERTY TAX: Tax-forfeited property is removed from the county assessment tax rolls at time of forfeiture. Property is returned to the tax rolls immediately after sale, and the payment of property taxes will commence the year following the year of sale. For example, if the property is sold in 2024, payment of property taxes will commence in 2025. It is the Buyer’s responsibility to contact Ramsey County, or the city assessor where the property is located, to determine estimated future taxes payable.
FEES: At the closing of the sale, the following fees will be collected:
• Assurance Fee: 3% of the total sales price
• State Deed Recording Fee: $51.00
• Deed Preparation Fee: $25.00
. . $.0034 of the total sales price
• Deed Tax .
SELLER NOT ABLE TO PAY CLOSING COSTS, SPECIALS, OR STATUTORY FEES: Ramsey County will not contribute funds toward payment for buyer’s additional closing costs, special assessments cancelled due to forfeiture, assurance fee or other statutory fees.
FORMER OWNERS: If you are a former owner of a parcel being auctioned, you must pay the Minimum Bid price or the amount of delinquency, whichever is more, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 282.01, Subd. 7.
*All sales are final, and no refunds or exchanges are permitted.
*Ramsey County is not responsible for locating or determining property lines or boundaries.
PROPERTY CONDITION: All property is sold “as is” and may not conform to local building and zoning ordinances. The county makes no warranty that the land is “buildable”.
Purchasers are encouraged to contact the city where the property is located for information about building codes, zoning laws, or other municipal information that effects the property.
Purchaser acknowledges that Buyer(s) were able to obtain authorization from Ramsey County to perform soil testing at Buyer’s own expense, before purchasing parcel or parcels. The sale will not be rescinded if soil problems of any type are discovered after the sale.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INDEMNIFICATION: The purchaser shall indemnify Ramsey County and/or the State of Minnesota for environmental contamination as a result of purchaser’s use and occupancy of the property.
STATE DEED ORDERING: Conveyance of tax-forfeit property is made by State Deed on a form prepared by the Minnesota Attorney General and executed by the Minnesota Department of Revenue on behalf of the State of Minnesota. By law, a State Deed cannot be ordered until the full purchase price for the subject property has been received by the County Auditor. Therefore, to process an order for a State Deed, the full purchase price must be tendered.
TITLE: The County or the State of Minnesota does not warrant the condition of title. The buyer will receive a documentation of Purchase at the time of the sale and/or the Commissioner of Revenue will issue a deed from the State of Minnesota after full payment is made. Tax forfeiture will create a break in the chain of title. SELLER CONVEYS TAX TITLE, and the services
of an attorney may be necessary to make the title marketable. CODE COMPLIANCE CLAUSE: If a structure exists on the property that does not meet the requirements of a code compliance inspection report or home inspection report issued within the past year, then within twelve (12) months of the execution date the buyer, as a condition of the Contract for Deed, shall file with the Tax-Forfeited Land section of Ramsey County a certificate of code compliance, as required by the city in which the property is located. Buyer must provide seller with proof of compliance, or the buyer will be in default of the Contract for Deed.
FOR ALL LAND NOT IN A PLATTED SUBDIVISION: There are restrictive covenants required for marginal lands and wetlands including lands in Auditor’s Subdivisions (see Minnesota Statutes 2007, Section 103F.535, Subd. 1, and Minnesota Statutes 2007, Section 282.018, Subd. 2.) SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS: Local improvements not yet assessed, and any special assessments levied after forfeiture, must be assumed by the purchaser (APPLICABLE TO MINIMUM BID SALE ONLY). In addition, any remaining balance of cancelled special assessments that existed prior to the tax-forfeiture MAY BE REASSESSED by the municipality. It is the responsibility of the prospective purchaser to contact the city to determine special assessments that may have been canceled and may be subject to reassessment, and the city’s terms for the payment of such assessments. DEED CONDITIONS: The following terms and conditions will be included in the deed you receive from the State of Minnesota.
REVERTER: If the purchaser, their successor, or assigns, shall not comply with the above terms and conditions, title to the property shall automatically revert to the State of Minnesota. Compliance with the above terms and conditions shall be evidenced by a certificate of compliance recorded in the real property records of Ramsey County.
“AS-IS” SALE: Buyer agrees that the property shall be sold and that buyer shall accept the property “as is, where is, with all faults”, with no right of setoff or reduction in the purchase price, and that such sale shall be without representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, including without limitation, warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, and seller does hereby disclaim and renounce any such representation or warranty. Buyer specifically acknowledges that buyer is not relying on any representations or warranties of any kind whatsoever, express, or implied, from seller, agent, other agents, or brokers as to the condition of or as to any matter concerning the property. Buyer further acknowledges and agrees that it is relying solely upon its own independent examination, inspection, study, and knowledge of the property and not upon any information or representations made to it by seller, its officers, directors, contractors, agents or employees or any person whomsoever. Buyer hereby expressly assumes all risks, liabilities, claims, damages, and costs (and agrees that seller shall not be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or other damages) resulting or arising from or related to the ownership, use, condition, location, maintenance, repair, or operation of the property. Buyer acknowledges that any condition of the property which buyer discovers prior to or after the closing date shall be at buyer’s sole expense, and buyer expressly waives and releases seller and seller’s agents, commissioners, employees, directors, officers and representatives from any claims, demands, losses, liabilities, damages, penalties, fines, liens, judgments, costs or expenses under federal law, state or other law, that buyer might otherwise have against seller or seller’s agents and/or representatives relating to the physical characteristics or condition of the property including the environmental condition of the property. Buyer acknowledges that the purchase price reflects the “as- is” nature of this sale and any faults, liabilities, defects, or other adverse matters that may be associated with the property. Buyer has had the opportunity to fully review the disclaimers and waivers set forth herein, with its counsel, and understand the significance and effect thereof. This provision will be included in the State Deed that conveys the property.
The above terms shall run with the land and shall be binding on the purchaser, and the purchaser’s successors and assigns.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: If you have additional questions regarding the sale or the terms and conditions of the sale, you may contact the Tax Forfeited Land section at:
Phone: (651) 266-2080
Email: TFL@co.ramsey.mn.us
In Person: 90 W. Plato Blvd., St. Paul, MN
This Notice of Sale of Tax-Forfeited Land, and the 2025-2 AUCTION LIST are on file in the office of the Ramsey County Auditor/Treasurer in the Property Tax, Records and Election Services Department and notice is hereby given in accordance with state statutes.
The County Auditor has the authority to remove any parcel prior to sale where insufficient time exists for board approval of the removal from the auction and to bring it back to the County Board for ratification of the removal. IN ORDER TO PROTECT YOUR LEGAL INTERESTS, WE RECOMMEND
2. Firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode journeyed over 150 miles from Duluth to St. Paul to raise awareness and funds for firefighter health resources and services as a part of the Miles for MnFIRE. The two stopped by one of the White Bear Lake fire stations while passing through town. — Contributed
3. The White Bear Lake High School Class of 1964 gathered for dinner at Rudy’s Redeye Grill Sept. 18. — Kathy Johnson, Contributed 4-5. Main Street Inc. hosted its annual Fall Fest in downtown White Bear Lake Sept. 25-27. The event included a Ladies Night, Scarecrow Stroll, pumpkin painting and polka music. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications
Brodie Law Office
1. White Bear Lake resident Annette Jagger’s granddog, Keebler, 4, finished in 2nd place at the corgi races at the Vikings halftime show at U.S. Bank Stadium. — Contributed
White Bear Lake Area High School honors distinguished alumni
Brigadier General (Ret.) Bryan John Hult, Class of 1974 Mariner Campus
Hult’s career began when he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1978. Within a year, he graduated from Officer Candidate School, Airborne School and Helicopter Flight School. After serving at Fort Hood, Texas, he pursued theological studies at Western Seminary, graduating summa cum laude with both a master of divinity and a master of theology.
His call to ministry and military service ran in parallel. After pastoring in Minnesota and Indiana, he transferred into the Army Chaplain Corps. His career culminated with his promotion to brigadier general, where he served as the assistant chief of chaplains for the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C., the highest chaplaincy position in the Army National Guard. In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels.
Hult also pursued advanced theological studies, earning his doctor of ministry degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 2002. After retiring from the National Guard in 2010 and from Grace Evangelical Church in 2014, he and his wife Barbara moved to Sandpoint, Idaho. There, he served for more than eight years as the veteran service officer for Bonner County, where he supported countless veterans and their families.
Today, Hult continues to teach Biblical Greek and Hebrew, counsel individuals and couples, and speak at veteran and community events. On Nov. 9, he will be inducted into the Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame in Indianapolis.
Rooted in the White Bear Lake community where he grew up swimming, sailing and working summer jobs, Hult remembers fondly his Plymouth Duster and the music of the Beach Boys and Chicago echoing on summer nights. He credits his wife Barbara, his siblings Gary and Connie, and countless mentors, friends and teachers for shaping his path.
“Bryan’s life of service to faith, family, community, and country reflects the highest values of White Bear Lake Area High School,” said
NAMES IN THE NEWS
White Bear Township
resident Paul Chapin, along with four other individuals, will be honored as Award of Distinction recipients at the 2026 USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Winter Haven, Florida, on April 11, 2026.
Chapin’s contributions to the sport and
WBLAHS Principal Russ Reetz. “We are honored to recognize him as a Distinguished Alumnus.”
Dr. Paul Anthony Iaizzo, Class of 1974 (Mariner Campus)
Dr. Iaizzo is a professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School, where he has served for over 35 years. He is widely respected for his leadership as director of the Visible Heart Laboratories and the Institute for Engineering in Medicine, where his pioneering research continues to make a lasting impact in medicine and engineering.
A lifelong learner, Iaizzo earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Minnesota-Duluth, followed by a Ph.D. in neurophysiology at the University of Minnesota. His thesis research was completed at the Mayo Clinic, where he later trained as an NIH Fellow. He was also honored as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow in Germany.
Throughout his career, Iaizzo has trained more than 140 graduate students and has provided White Bear Lake Area High School students with the unique opportunity to tour and learn within the Visible Heart Laboratories for over 20 years. His efforts have inspired countless young people to pursue careers in science and medicine.
Beyond academia, Iaizzo has given back to his community in many ways. He and his wife Marge — married for 42 years — raised three daughters, all White Bear graduates. He coached youth basketball and soccer for over a decade and enjoys spending time with his five grandchildren. His personal passions include beekeeping, foraging and black bear research, which he has pursued for nearly three decades.
“Dr. Iaizzo’s outstanding professional achievements and lifelong commitment to learning and mentorship embody what it means to be a Distinguished Alumnus,” said White Bear Lake Area High School Principal Russ Reetz. “We are proud to honor him as an example for our students and community.”
For more information about the Distinguished Alumni Award, visit https://wblalumni.com/wall-offame.
his waterskiing accomplishments exceed 50 years. Since 1963 he has competed in more than 50 Nationals in all age divisions, plus Open, with numerous top five placements since 1970 in all three events. In addition, since 2003 Chapin has served the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation as a trustee and past president.
PHOTOS BY WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS | CONTRIBUTED
Dr. Paul Anthony Iaizzo (left) and Brigadier General (Ret.) Bryan John Hult are recognized at the Homecoming football game for being Distinguished Alumni Award recipients.
Paul Chapin
ROUTE 66: ‘Place to get in touch with stories of everyday people’
she was no longer a Ramsey County commissioner.
“This is a trip that J.P. has been dreaming about taking since he was a boy,” Reinhardt said. “I told him it was time to make his dream come true.”
So, they rented a car and left White Bear Lake at the end of August, heading to the Windy City. It was the first, and probably only time, Barone said, that the couple could be away from home for more than two consecutive weeks.
Asked why this particular road appeals to him, Barone replied: “Route 66 is a window onto the people who survive, strive and achieve in the Heartland. I have always been a student of history — it was my favorite subject in school. My interest was not just about the events. It was also about what life was like for the people whose hard work made those events happen.”
The highway tells the story of changes to travel brought about by the automobile, Barone continued. “At the beginning of the 1900s, the automobile replaced the horse and buggy for short trips. States and localities started improving local roads. By the 1920s, the automobile was starting to compete with the locomotive for longer trips. Then in 1926, the federal government funded improvements and connections to state and local roads to create a direct route from Chicago to Los Angeles, and Route 66 was born.”
features an Oakland-brand car.
Along the way, the couple stayed, in order, in Skokie, a Chicago suburb, Pontiac and Springfield, Illinois; St. Louis, Springfield, and Joplin, Missouri; Stroud and Weatherford, Oklahoma; Amarillo, Texas; Albuquerque, New Mexico; Winslow and Kingman, Arizona; and in California, San Bernardino (ending Route 66 in Santa Monica) and Los Angeles. They flew home from LA on Sept. 12.
They visited transportation museums, historic sites, a uranium mine and myriad tourist attractions along the route, many of them with automobile themes.
“The route goes through the main streets of many towns,” Barone said. “Gas stations, restaurants, motels and other businesses sprang up and competed for travelers’ business. Many businesses started using neon signs, unique logos, giant statues and other roadside attractions to make their
business stand out.
“Although we all must know world history to understand America, my desire to dig deeper relates to the uniquely American experience. I have never traveled abroad, but I have visited dozens of state historical societies, state capitols and presidential libraries. Route 66 is the place to get in touch with the stories of everyday people, not just famous people.”
Barone describes Route 66 as both an icon and an allegory. “In the 1930s, John Steinbeck’s novel, ‘The Grapes of Wrath,’ and the subsequent 1939 motion picture starring Henry Fonda, revealed the Mother Road to the masses,” he said. “In 1946, Bobby Troupe’s song ‘I get my kicks on Route 66,’ originally recorded by Nat ‘King’ Cole, made America’s Highway seem like a fun romp.
“And then there was the 1960-64 television series ‘Route 66’ that made Main Street a symbol of the vastness and diversity of life in America. I grew up with the novel/movie, the song and the television series as a nostalgic look back at something that was disappearing.”
Three things in the mid ’50s would change the route and its towns forever, Barone observed: the interstate highway system, enclosed shopping malls and the franchising of McDonald’s restaurants.
“Small towns were bypassed and Main Street businesses disappeared. A way of life was gone. The American spirit, however, prevailed. People reimagined the Route 66 experience. Artifacts were brought together into small museums and in photoop tourist destinations. People planned trips along Route 66 to visit these sights and feel those bygone times.”
Looking back, Barone said they discovered two surprising things on their epic adventure:
First, an amazing number of people also want to take the trip and second, Route 66 is a major destination for visitors from other countries. They met fellow travelers from Germany, France, Italy and Japan, all traveling Route 66. He expects next summer to be particularly busy as the route celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Readers may notice Barone is always wearing a dress shirt and tie in the photos. “That is his casual
look,” explained Reinhardt. “He had a theme tie for every day — cars, movies, patriotic, depending on where we were visiting. He is known to say, ‘others wear T-shirts to convey a message, I use ties.’”
Barone credits his wife for “doing most of the work to make the trip happen. And although this was on my bucket list, Victoria was enthusiastic and supportive,” he said. “Together, we enjoyed it immensely, much to Victoria’s surprise.”
In an email upon their return, Barone had one final note regarding that mode of transportation for which America’s Highway was built: the automobile.
“As an automobile enthusiast and collector, I enjoyed visiting an amazing number of automobile museums along the way. We rented a vehicle for the trip because we wanted to fly back from Los Angeles and didn’t want to sell a car in California. Since Route 66 is a uniquely American experience, I wanted to drive it in a traditional American vehicle. I was happy when the rental vehicle was a Chevy Blazer. I immediately thought of Dinah Shore singing, ‘See the U.S.A. in your Chevrolet.’”
Council hears from Main Street Inc. on levy, social district
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
WHITE BEAR LAKE — Two things that have been on the minds of members of the Main Street organization include the existing special service district as well as a future social district.
The special service district levy for downtown White Bear Lake has been authorized for 2026 and 2027. Housing and Economic Development Coordinator Tracy Shimek explained that the special service district, which was established in 1992 along with Main Street Inc., authorizes the city to establish an annual levy that is collected by Ramsey County with real estate taxes from all business properties in the district.
Since its creation, the levy has been renewed 16 times. Since approximately 2010, the annual
levy has remained at $45,000, which equates to a minimum charge of $135 and a maximum change of $1,600 per property.
Council Member Andrea West commented that she was “a little surprised” the levy has remained at the same amount for so many years despite the rising costs.
Main Street President Kristen Cranmer responded, “We try very hard to keep our budget minimal ... We talked about increasing, but we felt it was not in our best interest in trying to do that with all the rising costs to businesses.”
Shimek pointed out that most of the work Main Street does is on a volunteer basis, which allows it to keep costs down.
West inquired about the recent inquiry to launch a social district downtown and wanted to know more about Main Street’s next steps.
Cranmer explained that the district was still doing research on the idea and that Main Street would like to provide the council and city staff more “in-depth research” in the future. “I think there just needs to be a little more info provided to you all to figure out how that could work in White Bear,” she said. West said more information would be helpful and shared that she was concerned about the workload it could create for city staff. “I’m wanting to make sure that our costs are kept down, and of course increased staff time means more money,” she said. “More staff from the city for a social district means all of the city residents would be paying for that versus just the people who own the businesses.”
Cranmer mentioned she will be moving out of the area at the end of the year, but one thing she hopes to accomplish before then is to help
figure out some of these issues. She mentioned that her hometown in Ohio started a social district in 2021 and “it has been fantastic.”
Mayor Dan Louismet wanted to know how supportive the Main Street board was of the idea. Cranmer explained it has been hard to gauge because even though there are over 200 businesses and property owners in the district, only about 10 to 12 of the members regularly attend board meetings. “It’s really hard to get a pulse on,” she said.
Cranmer said Main Street is considering adding the item to a future meeting agenda and encouraging a round table discussion about a social district to gauge feedback.
Editor
Day 1 or “blast off” started in downtown Chicago at the route’s start, marked by a sign. Victoria and J.P. pose by a Route 66 map later that day at the Joliet Area Historical Museum in Illinois. PHOTOS
A giant billboard in Galena, Kansas, promotes Route 66. Only 13 miles of the route cross Kansas.
Day 2 included museum stops in Pontiac, Illinois. Gas was cheap back in the day. J.P.’s tie
White Bear Township resident receives citizenship documentation, warns others who were adopted
BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER
White Bear Township resident Astrid IraMcCarthy has procured a Certificate of Citizenship. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has also removed her Alien Registration Number, or A-Number.
Late last year, Astrid, formerly known as Nisha Adamietz, sought official documentation from the federal government regarding her citizenship, specifically a Certificate of Naturalization, or M595 Form. Because her parents adopted her through Hope Adoption and Family Services, now called EVOLVE Family Services, in Oak Park Heights in 1989, she knew she was a U.S. citizen because of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000. At an appointment with USCIS last December, an employee told Astrid that her records were established in the system, so fingerprints were not needed. This past spring, however, instead of the requested documentation, Astrid was given an A-Number and told to procure the Certificate of Naturalization herself or risk deportation. (See “White Bear Township resident required to prove citizenship,” White Bear Press, June 11, 2025.)
Since then, Astrid and her wife, Lex, hired an
Athlete Lab makes top 100 small businesses list
The Athlete Lab has been named to U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s CO-100 America’s Top 100 Small Businesses list. The Athlete Lab was selected from more than 12,500 applicants by a panel of judges for impressive growth, innovative strategies and a commitment to building a strong workplace culture.
According to a statement from co-owners Lisa Hobbie and Vicki Ostendorf, "We are deeply honored to be recognized among the Top 100 Small Businesses in the nation. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our team, the dedication of our clients and the support of our community. At The Athlete Lab, our mission has always been to empower people to reach their full potential through fitness, endurance and resilience — and this recognition inspires us to
James R. Garin
It is with great sadness that the family of James “Jim” Richard Garin announces his passing on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the age of 90 years. Jim is preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Marilynn (Kuenkel), parents Eunice and James E. Garin, brothers, Dennis (Cheryl) Garin and Jack Garin, grandson, Daniel LeTourneau, and sonin-law, Kirk “Corky” Fleischman. He is survived by brothers, Robert (Carol) Garin and Michael (Albita) Garin, sister-in-law, Judy Garin, and children Kathleen Fleischman, Jilleen (David) LeTourneau, Thomas (Darci) Garin, and Jennifer (Richard) Zimdars. Jim is also survived by grandchildren: David (Luisa) LeTourneau, Chelsea (William) Dawsey, Zachary (Kandice) Zimdars, Amanda (Kenneth) Biron, Chad Fleischman, Wyatt Garin and Lawton Garin, greatgrandchildren: Lucy, Jack, Della, Ana, Ryleigh, Cole and Adelynn, as well as several nieces and nephews.
immigration lawyer and filed numerous Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. From one of these requests, Lex discovered that once adoption records get old enough, they are moved to a centralized federal archive in Chicago. When Lex asked the archive for a document query, a longtime employee remembered that, for two to three years in the 1980s, there was a different adoption program that used different terminology.
EVOLVE and USCIS could not find a Certificate of Naturalization because Astrid’s records contained a Certificate of Citizenship, a functionally equivalent document. “I got citizenship two ways,” Astrid described. “I have the form, and the (Child Citizenship Act of 2000) kicked in.”
Once Lex provided this research to USCIS, Astrid’s A-Number was removed and a copy of the document was mailed to her without need of signature. “Lex hands it to me, and I start crying,” Astrid recalled before laughing, “and I can’t get (the envelope) open because I have to stay calm because I can’t rip it up.”
While her situation is now resolved, Astrid states that she and Lex had to put their lives on hold for months. Astrid had to temporarily shutter her business and pause relationships with all of
keep raising the bar.”
Hobbie and Ostendorf will head to Washington, D.C., Oct. 6-8 to take part in events at the U.S.
Joan (Zaspel) Jungkunz
her clients. They also now have to pay for legal services.
Astrid is aware, however, that the situation could have taken a much darker turn. “My story made it to India, and I met a man named Arun Dohle. He runs an anti-human-trafficking group (Against Child Trafficking, or ACT),” Astrid said. “Through Arun, I learned there was a girl in 2017 who did get shipped back to India. … So, yes, this was absolutely on the table.”
Going forward, Astrid hopes other people who were adopted are able to hear her story. “There are people who know they have a passport and think they’re safe right now,” Astrid said. “They don’t have the Certificate of Citizenship or the M595. … My advice is to have everything.”
All community members have basic rights under the U.S. Constitution and civil rights laws. To learn more about those rights and find additional resources, visit the following:
• Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, 651-6411011 or www.ilcm.org
• Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, 612-332-1441, mylegalaid.org
• Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS), 1-877-696-6529 or 651-222-5863, www. smrls.org
Chamber of Commerce's headquarters. At an awards dinner, 10 businesses will be recognized for outstanding achievement across 10 categories of excellence and receive $2,000 each. One standout company will be named America's Top Small Business and receive a $25,000 prize. For more information, visit www.uschamber. com/co/co-100.
SCHOOL BRIEF
Jim was a long-time White Bear Lake resident until moving to Englewood, FL in retirement. He graduated from Mahtomedi High School and was a proud Army veteran. Jim owned his own small business, Royal Tool & Engineering in Hugo, for several years. He will be deeply missed for his quiet strength, his long walks along Englewood Beach, and his immense loyalty and love of his friends and family.
Jim Garin will be laid to rest in a private family service to be held in his honor at Sarasota National Cemetery.
age 94, from White Bear Township, passed away peacefully September 18, 2025 at St. Therese of St. Odilia’s in Shoreview, MN. Born on June 4, 1931 in St. Paul, MN. Preceded in death by parents; Joseph A. and Martha (Hinze) Zaspel; husband, George A. Jungkunz; sister, Marion (Eugene) Peltier; daughters, Carol and Rosemary; and daughter-in-law, Julie Jungkunz. Survived by children, David Jungkunz, Alice Jungkunz, Margaret Swanson, Ruth (Kirk) Nelson; five grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Joan lived her Catholic faith daily and loved living creatively through music (piano, Silver Harmony Singers of WBL), crafting (sewing and knitting), gardening, and decorating for the holidays and special occasions. Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110; visitation at the church an hour prior to the Mass (10 AM). Private family interment. Memorial preferred to St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church. Mueller Memorial-White Bear Lake, www.muellermemorial.com 651-429-4944
Joanne E. Morrissette
Age 90, of Vadnais Heights. Memorial Service 4 PM Friday, October 3, 2025 at Honsa Family Funeral Home, 2460 East County Road E, White Bear Lake with visitation one hour before service. Private interment Acacia Park Cemetery. Memorials preferred. Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172.
Community of Grace Christian School Irish Dancers win international awards
Community of Grace Christian School (formerly Magnuson Christian School) enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities and clubs.
The Irish Dance Club, headed up by instructor Iryna Orf, recently celebrated great success. The team of dancers, ranging from second through fifth grade, routinely perform in school shows and recently started to take part in international online Irish dance competitions. Despite limited resources and time, dancers continue to make it to the podium when they compete.
"It's a way to express the dance moves and learn a different culture. You have a chance to compete and it's just fun in general!
Our dance teacher is a world champion,” said fifth grader Abby.
Third grader Riley added, “"My favorite thing about Irish dance is that we get to compete in competitions and learn new dance moves. Winning the awards felt amazing.”
The Irish Steps dance club started in January 2023, a few years after Orf, its founder, moved to White Bear Lake from Ukraine. She has previously won the titles of European and World champion. She was also the first fully certified East-European adjudicator of Irish dance competitions.
CONTRIBUTED
The Irish Dance Club at Community of Grace Christian School participates in online competitions.
CONTRIBUTED
The Athlete Lab is located at 1632 County Road E in Vadnais Heights.
MAHTOMEDI & WILLERNIE
The ‘Joe Mauer of Mahtomedi’ marks 3 decades
BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
What does Minnesota Twins Hall of Fame baseball player Joe Mauer have to do with the Mahtomedi Public Works Department?
Mauer and Public Works
Department Director Bob Goebel both enjoyed careers as catchers. Mauer caught 100 mph fastballs, and Goebel has caught fawns and monitor lizards. Both aspired to be franchise players, and both were.
Mauer played for the Minnesota Twins from 2004-2018. Goebel has played for the city of Mahtomedi from 1995 to 2025. His 30-year playing days with Mahtomedi have lasted twice as long as Mauer’s 15-year career with the Twins.
This is not as far-fetched as it seems: it was Goebel’s idea, after all.
When City Administrator Scott Neilson interviewed Goebel for the position of public works director a few years ago, Goebel said, “I want to be a franchise player — I want to be the Joe Mauer of Mahtomedi.”
The Mahtomedi City Council recently honored Goebel for being that team player for three decades. In fact, he has worked for the city for 32 years. For his first two years of working for the city, he was a seasonal worker.
In 1993, Goebel’s very first interview with the city for the seasonal job went like this:
City administrator: “When can you start?”
Goebel: “Tomorrow morning.”
The morning after that interview,
Goebel started his job with the Mahtomedi Public Works Department, mowing in the summer and plowing in the winter. In 1995, the city hired Goebel full-time as maintenance operator.
Goebel never thought he had a job.
“I love what I do,” he said. “There’s something different every day.”
For example, in August 2012, when Goebel was chief maintenance operator, he was driving down Lincolntown Avenue keeping an eye out for deer and skittish squirrels when he saw a giant lizard sunning itself on the centerline. “I thought it was an alligator,” he said of the 4-foot monitor lizard.
Goebel wasn’t sure what to do, so he blocked the roadway with his truck to prevent the lizard from being run over and enlisted the help of several people, including naturalist Jim Malkowski of Pine Springs. The lizard scrambled into the brush and took shelter in a poison ivy patch. The team of lizard wranglers scooped it up in a fishing net, only to have it launch itself out of the net.
Eventually, the lizard was secured and reunited with its owner, who said the lizard had slipped out of its cat leash and escaped into a pond while being taken out for a walk.
In May 2017, Goebel, a lifetime member of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association, was given a chance of redemption and fame by rescuing a fawn from a storm sewer. He pulled the grate up, grabbed the fawn and had a photo op courtesy of the three Washington County Sheriff’s
Office squads that had hurried to the scene. Goebel and the fawn were seen more than 100,000 times on Facebook, as well as on Channels 5 and 9 news.
“It was loud, it called for its mom and took off immediately to hide in the bushes after I set it down,” Goebel said.
“I’ve known Bob as long as I’ve been here,” Neilson said. “Bob has been the go-to person for this city for quite a few years. His knowledge of city is vast — he knows where all the bodies are buried. He keeps me informed, is eager to learn something new and wants to be the best public works director he can be.”
“I interact with Bob every day,” said City Engineer John Sachi. “I have both his work number and private number and when I can’t reach one, I try the other. He answers all the time.”
Goebel is married to Judy and has three sons: Ben, Will and Jack. Jack,
16, stepped up to the council podium to concur. “He seems happy when he’s answering his phone,” he said of his dad.
“I never know what the next phone call will be,” Goebel said. “I deal with anything and everything.”
“Bob, you’re so good at what you do, even though it’s tough to be nice and do a nice job,” said Council Member Jane Schneeweis. “I’m glad you’re not leaving.”
“No, not leaving yet,” Goebel said. Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.
Mahtomedi anglers qualify for 2026 B.A.S.S. High School National Championship
Mahtomedi Fishing Team anglers Landon Hogan and Blake Loida earned first place in both their
B.A.S.S. Nation, a global network of locally organized clubs whose members participate in and support a range of activities, including tournaments, conservation initiatives and youth programs. The conference tournaments serve as the pathway to the state championship. In each event, teams compete for the heaviest combined weight of their top five bass.
Throughout the 2025 conference season, Hogan and Loida finished second place in all three conference tournaments:
• June 27 – North/South Center Lake: five fish, 19.63 lbs
• July 18 – White Bear Lake: five fish, 18.54 lbs
• July 25 – Clearwater Lake: five fish, 17.44 lbs
Their strong performance secured them first place overall in the Northeast Metro Conference, which includes teams from White Bear Lake, HillMurray, Centennial and Spring Lake Park. They advanced to the MN Junior B.A.S.S. Nation High School State Championship, held Sept. 6–7 on the Le Homme Dieu Chain of Lakes. Over two days of competition:
• Day 1: 15.46 lbs (second place standing)
• Day 2: 16.39 lbs
• Total: 31.85 lbs, earning them first place overall
Hogan and Loida also qualified for the 2026 B.A.S.S. High School National Championship, where they will compete against approximately 300 of the top high school teams from across the U.S. The championship dates are expected to be announced this spring.
Mayor Richard Brainerd recognizes Bob Goebel at a City Council meeting.
CONTRIBUTED
Blake Loida (left) and Landon Hogan placed first in both the conference and Minnesota Junior B.A.S.S. Nation High School State Tournament.
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Bob Goebel rescues a fawn from a storm sewer.
SPORTS
| CONTRIBUTED
Bears volleyball 8-4, beat Royals
White Bear Lake fended off Woodbury 25-8, 23-25, 2624, 25-18 at home Monday, improving to 8-4 overall and 2-2 in the conference. Woodbury (6-7) made big rallies to win set two and almost win set three. In the fourth, the Bears pushed ahead 14-9 when Maddy Pearson served six straight points and held the lead this time. Pearson had three aces and eight digs, Martina Callegari 17 kills and Pearl Niemioja 11, Kailey Gieske 17 digs, Leila Otto 25 assists and Abby Meyer 17, and Maya Link four blocks and Addison Lee three. Woodbury got 15 kills from Kendall Worwa.
Bruce Strand
TENNIS
Mahtomedi is ranked No. 1 in Class 2A heading into sectionals starting Thursday, and earned a share of the Metro East championship. This is the first year of a three-class system and 2A is the middle level. The Zephyrs beat Simley 7-0, Hastings 5-2 and South St. Paul 4-3 last week to finish 6-1 in the MEC, same as Two Rivers and Hill-Murray. They are 14-4 overall, losing only to Class 3A teams, including Two Rivers. Against SSP, the Zephyrs lost No. 1 singles and doubles but got wins from Lily Carlson, Abby Manger and Braelyn Skow and the clincher from Alexia Tempelis/Brooke Berg 6-7 (4), 6-2, 6-3 at 2-doubles.
GIRLS SOCCER
Mahtomedi (10-1-2) has nine straight wins, seven by shutout, after blanking Hill-Murray 1-0, Two Rivers 2-0 and North St. Paul 8-0. The defensive corps is anchored by center backs Neven Leopold and Olivia Boberg and defensive midfielder Lola Dambowy, while Izzy Vipond, Eloise Taylor, Xiabao Liang, and Ali Farrington platoon in and out. In a duel for the MEC lead against Hill-Murray (9-2-2), Harlow Berger made seven saves, and Kayla Poirier scored in the 24th minute. Against Two Rivers, Elise Aflakpi and Poirier netted the goals while Berger had five saves and an assist. Logging goals against North were Bethel Darik (two), Xiaofeng Liang, Adalyn Bjorkman, Aflakpi, Lucy Peer, Berger and Eloise Taylor.
BY BRUCE STRAND CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Bloomington Jefferson was opening a brandnew football stadium Friday evening while also celebrating homecoming, with over 3,000 spectators on hand. The visiting Mahtomedi Zephyrs (50) made it a less festive occasion by shutting down the Jaguars 20-0. Jefferson (1-4) suffered 14 penalties. Fifteenyard penalties helped the Zephyrs march 85 yards for a one-yard touchdown by Gavin Kruse and 98 yards for a one-yard TD by Jacob Reubish.
The last TD, by Reubish from 13 yards, came after the Zephyrs
SWIMMING & DIVING
Mahtomedi is 3-0 in the MEC after defeating Hastings 95-86. Placing first were Abigail Wright in the 100 and 200, Rory Juhl (500), Aria Armstrong (medley) and Adalyn Miller (50). In a duel of standout divers, Hastings’ Chloe Aarness edged Shaela Murphy 263.85 to 253.35. In relays, Mahtomedi took the 200 free with Delaney Dumermuth, Maddie Ruppel, Miller and Wright and the 400 free with Miller, Ruppel, Armstrong and Wright.
VOLLEYBALL
Mahtomedi placed second in a Chisago Lakes tournament after winning a key conference match over Two Rivers. The Zephyrs (10-7 overall) beat Two Rivers 25-23, 25-19, 25-17 as Claire Crothers notched 16 digs, two aces and 21-22 passing. Sahar Ramaley made 15 kills, and Louisa Tarnowski 10 kills and 15 digs. At Chisago Lakes, the Zephyrs beat Pine City 25-14, 25-19; Holy Angels 25-15, 25-21; Chisago Lakes 25-13, 21-25, 15-8; and Totino-Grace 25-17 25-17 in pool play. Hill-Murray edged them in the finals 25-21, 2o-25, 15-11. Tarnowski served 55-for-57 with eight aces and made 47 kills in the tournament. Anna Hynes had 25 kills. Margo Kiely made 12 kills against Chisago Lakes. Claire Crothers was 48-49 passing.
BOYS SOCCER
Mahtomedi lost to Two Rivers 4-2 and North St, Paul 3-0 last week, then beat Roseville Area 3-1. The Zephyrs are 5-6-1 overall and 2-3-1 in conference.
CROSS COUNTRY
The Mahtomedi girls placed 16th of 32 teams at Farmington’s Cowbell Run, led by Emily Alexander in 48th place, Vanessa Rogosheske 61st and Julia Clayton 65th among 359 runners. The boys were 26th of 33 teams, led by Liam MacChesney in 89th place and Nolan Dock 184th among 262 runners.
Bruce Strand
smothered a fake punt by the Jaguars and had a short field. The Zephyrs failed on two conversion kicks but got a two-pointer on a pass to Gavin Bifulk. Reubish carried 19 times for 108 yards and Kruse 11 times for 55 yards. Mark Graff passed 2-for-6 for 31 yards.
Jefferson’s Joseph Moore completed nine of 15 for 103 yards and got them inside the red zone twice. The Zephyrs held the Jags to nine yet yards on the ground. The Zephyrs got a forfeit from Bloomington Kennedy on Monday evening. That game had been postponed from Friday, Sept. 19, when Mahtomedi school
GIRLS SOCCER
officials were informed that two gunmen might be in the area after criminal activity in Grant. Kennedy subsequently informed Mahtomedi that they would forfeit the game.
White Bear Lake played three straight days last week — a “first” for the program, said co-coach John Dierkhising — and won them all by shutout over Forest Lake 7-0 , East Ridge 3-0 and Roseville Area 2-0. The Bears have five consecutive shutouts, improving to 5-2 in the SEC and 9-3-1 overall. “I give credit to our keepers making better decisions on controlling their 18 yard box,” said Dierkhising, “and to seniors Marin Peterson and Maddie Thompson keeping things more organized and locking offensive players down.” The 12 goals included two each by Lanah Yang, Marin Peterson, Ellyse Oelker, Piper Heinsohn and Teagan Coopet, and one each by Katie Koller and Josie Butters.
TENNIS
White Bear Lake finished the regular season 9-9 overall and 5-3 in the Suburban East after splitting four matches last week, beating Woodbury 6-1 and Stillwater 4-3, then losing to Mounds Park Academy 4-3 and Cretin-Derham Hall 5-2. Sectionals started Tuesday.
Sophie Menier and Josie Guidinger won all four matches at No. 1 doubles and Mallory Peltier/Chloe Theissen were 3-1 at No. 2. Lisa Gritzmacher and Sophia Sargent were each 2-2 in singles.
SWIMMING & DIVING
Mounds View defeated host White Bear Lake 110-73. Charlotte McIntyre, Bear sophomore, won the individual medley (2:19.50) and 500 free (5:39.52). The Bears 200 free relay won with Audrey Borofka, Eva Hoefer, Addie Johnson and Anna Miller (1:50.04). Placing second were Miller (200 free), Borofka (50 free and butterfly), and Hoefer (100 free).
BOYS SOCCER
White Bear Lake is stuck on one win for the season but scrapped to a pair of 1-1 ties last week, against Forest Lake and Roseville Area, before losing to East Ridge 3-2. Gavin Huot scored against Forest Lake and Cooper Schauls made eight saves. The Bears are 1-9-4.
Bruce Strand
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
White Bear Lake Soccer October 1, 2025
Maddy Thompson is one of the main reasons White Bear Lake soccer has posted five straight shutouts and has allowed just 12 goals in 13 games. The 5-foot-8 center back consistently shuts down scoring threats while providing strong senior leadership to the defensive corps. Thompson is a four-year regular in a prolific program (50-13-5 in her career) and has seven career goals. Thompson was also a starting forward on the Bears’ 2025 state tournament basketball team where she also stands out as a defender.
BRUCE STRAND
The Bears celebrate after pulling out game three 26-24 against Woodbury.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Kayla Poirier had the goal in a 1-0 win over Hill-Murray.
BRUCE STRAND |
Zephyr linebacker Will Seevers wrapped up Jefferson quarterback Joseph Moore for a sack.
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Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Sundays YOGA in the VINES 10a-11A Saint Croix Vineyards
Sundays Live Music 3p – 6p Rustic Roots Winery
Tuesdays Yoga Class 6p-7p Rustic Roots Winery
Tuesdays Rotating Trivia & Bingo 6:30 Rustic Roots Winery
Wednesdays Keychain Kash All Day
Oct 2 Soccer Shots 5p-7p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 2 Trivia Night 6:30-8p Dragonfly Winery
Oct 4 Beauty & Brews Mobile Medspa 2p – 5p
Oct 4 Renfaire Day White Bear Meadery
Oct 5 Music: Michael August 2p-5p
Oct 6 Fall Styled Shoot 9a -5p
Oct 7 Music: Jennifer Grimm & Joe Cruz 4:30-7p
Oct 9 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Big Wood Brewery
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 9 Keys and Corks – Dueling Pianos 5:30-9p Rustic Roots Winery
Oct 9 Music: Maddie Forsythe 6p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 10 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Oct 11 Riverdale’s Travel Wedding Even 10:30a-4p
Oct 11 Morbid Makers market 12-5p
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
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Oct 12 Paint and Sip Wine Glass 11a-1p Saint Croix Vineyards
Oct 12 MN Bride Open House 12p-4p
Oct 12 Music: PK Mayo & Band 2p-5p
Oct 15
Oct 16
Oct 16
Music: Josh Quinn & Rose Duffey 5p-8p
Monthly Farmers Market 4-7p
Hat Lady Event-Stephanie Murphy 5:30-7:30
Oct 16 Trivia Nigh 6:30-8p
Oct 16 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Oct 17 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Oct 17 Halloween Movie Marathon 5p-9p
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Rustic Roots Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 17 Plant & Sip 6-8:30p
Oct 19 Fall Market 11a-3p
Oct 19 Music: Steve Poynter 2p-5p
Oct 22 Music: Tim Cheesebrow 5p-8p
Oct 23 Soccer Shots 5p-7p
Dancing Dragonfly Winery
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 23 Music: Ryan Sullivan 5p-8p Belle Ame Vineyard
Oct 24 Puzzle Night 6p-8p
Oct 24 Music: Cole Thomas 5p-8p
Oct 25
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Wine-O-Ween 12p Saint Croix Vineyards
Oct 26 Music: Gary LaRue 2p-5p
Oct 26
7 Vines Vineyard
Wine and Canvas Painting 11a Saint Croix Vineyards
Oct 26 Fall Market 11a-3p
Oct 28 Music: Billy McLaughlin 5p-8p
Oct 29 Music: Becky Rae 5p-8p
Belle Ame Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
7 Vines Vineyard
Oct 29 Monthly Book Club Meeting 5:30-6:30p Rustic Roots Winery
Oct 30 Music: Mark Stary 5p-8p
Oct 30 Murder at the Vineyard-Show 6p-9p
Oct 31 Halloween Contest 4p-8p
Nov 11 Holiday Market 2p- 6p
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Belle Ame Vineyard
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