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e d i u G ’ s Voter e u s s i s i in th tion B See Sec

Audiologists offer hearing-loss advice worth listening to

Township Day set to bring community together

BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER

Hearing loss and dementia are linked. Numerous recent studies have shown a clear association. One dataset from a study funded by the National Institute on Aging found that “prevalence of dementia among the participants with moderate-tosevere hearing loss was 61% higher than prevalence among participants who had normal hearing.” The same data showed that prevalence of dementia was 32% lower among those who used hearing aids. According to Doctors of Audiology Katherine Sheets of Midwest Hearing and Rebecca Younk of Associated Hearing, hearing loss is the most modifiable factor in reducing the risk of dementia. “The thought process (experts) have right now is that our brain has a certain cognitive load capacity. When you start to lose your hearing, the brain is pulling resources from other areas to try to accommodate,” explained Sheets. “You’re basically putting it in overload.” Younk noted that, because hearing loss is usually gradual, the brain will develop coping skills. Once those coping skills no longer work, a person can become isolated, anxious or depressed. Lack of social interaction can also increase risk of dementia. “Language is all about working memory,” Younk said. “If working memory decreases, processing decreases.” Sheets described how hearing loss can lead individuals to walk more slowly and develop impaired balance, which increase the risk of falling and injuries. “Our balance system and our inner-ear hearing

PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

White Bear Township’s 17th annual Township Day will return to Polar Lakes Park from 2 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. The day will be filled with family-friendly activities including live music, vendors, car show, bingo and fireworks. New this year, there will be shuttles running from Otter Lake Elementary to Polar Lakes Park, from 2 p.m. until after fireworks. See pages 3 and 16B for more information. 2023

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR School board accountability The superintendent is an employee. The school board is elected by you. That distinction matters. When board members are unwilling to challenge the administration, ask difficult questions or demand justification for spending decisions, accountability disappears. White Bear Lake voters should ask whether the priorities of board members are putting classroom teachers and academic achievement first. Too often, the district has chosen higher administrative costs, exorbitant construction projects, and feel-good training over classroom resources. While our neighboring district of Mahotmedi increased the number of teachers by 9% over the past 6 years, White Bear Lake increased everything else. Although support staff are important, classroom staff are at the heart of academic success. White Bear Lake voters approved $326 million in building bonds, while the district has committed roughly another $100 million in long-term facility spending. The cost doesn’t end when construction crews leave. We will have increased fixed costs that are paid from our general fund. There are basic utilities, maintenance, and upkeep associated with every square foot of our buildings and sports facilities. We also have increased transportation costs that are in part due to the relocation of the transportation facility to Hugo. Much of that ultimately competes with funds for classrooms. Those decisions will negatively affect taxpayers, teachers, and students for decades. A school board isn’t supposed to be a rubber stamp for the administration. Its job is oversight. Board members

should challenge assumptions, scrutinize spending, and insist that limited resources are directed towards the district’s most important mission: educating our children. This November, we should elect school board members who will ask hard questions, demand transparency, put students, parents, and taxpayers first, and provide checks and balances. The superintendent works for the School Board. The School Board works for us. Rebekah Bradfield White Bear Lake

Beyond the basics As the world becomes more complex, it is tempting to call for schools to go “back to the basics.” That is understandable. Parents and citizens should expect every child to become a strong reader, writer, communicator, and mathematically capable problem solver. Reading, writing, mathematics, science, history, and civics must remain at the heart of K–12 education. I am pleased to see that the White Bear Lake Area Schools takes these fundamentals seriously and devotes extensive time every day to them. But the basics should be the foundation of education—not the finish line. Our goal should be to take students beyond the basics. Fortunately, White Bear Lake area students learn to read not simply to pass a test, but to understand literature, science, government, financial information, workplace materials, and the news. They study mathematics not simply to calculate, but to reason, analyze evidence, manage money, and solve unfamiliar problems. Writing assignments PARTICIPATING require students to explain, BUSINESSES communicate, and persuade with Goodthings Gift evidence.

Knowledge remains essential. Facts, vocabulary, history, science, and other subject knowledge give students something with which to think. A strong education combines that knowledge with the ability to evaluate evidence, connect ideas, solve problems, and make sound judgments. It is also essential that our students learn digital and media literacy. They encounter an enormous stream of information, advertising, opinion, social media, and misinformation every day through online sources. They must learn how to determine whether sources are trustworthy, distinguish evidence from assertion, compare competing claims, and use technology responsibly. Our schools also prepare students for responsibilities beyond employment. After graduating, they will become voters, taxpayers, parents, volunteers, neighbors, and community leaders. They need an understanding of American history, government and civic institutions, along with the ability to listen to different perspectives, disagree respectfully, collaborate with others, and participate constructively in community life. “Beyond the Basics” does not mean abandoning academic rigor. It means building on it. Good schools should not have to choose between teaching essential academic subjects and preparing children for adult life. They should do both. Rolf W. Parsons White Bear Township

Using tax dollars against taxpayers

are worth checking. The article says renovating the current station "would cost nearly as much as new construction." The city's own FAQ, on the website that article promotes, says renovation was estimated to cost "$3-6 million less than building new." Both are the city's words. Only the one without a number ran in the paper. The article says the city "studied every option." Every option the city has actually priced sits on the South Arcade Street site: three renovations and one replacement in 2023, four new buildings and one renovation in 2025. The website says using the North station instead "would require significant investment," but gives no figure and cites no study. An explanation is not an analysis. And nowhere on that website, on any page, will you find the words "petition" or "reverse referendum." The site says the Council "made a deliberate choice to pause its plans." What happened is that 1,913 residents signed a petition; the Council rescinded the bond the day after it was filed, and the city clerk later confirmed the petition was valid. Minnesota law gives residents that power over this kind of borrowing. The city's information site does not mention it exists. The Fire Station Advisory Panel meets Oct. 26 to review the remodel option. More than 30 residents applied. They should reach their own conclusion, not read the city's seven weeks early. The city is free to make its case, and free to submit it unsigned. Residents are entitled to know who is making it, and what say they have in it.

PARTICIPATING Terry Nyblom PARTICIPATIN Vadnais Heights BUSINESSES

The Sept. 2 article "City launches new website to share fire service needs" was submitted by the City of Vadnais Heights. Three things in it

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WHAT’S HAPPENING www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP DAY

When: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Rd. Details: Community event filled with family-friendly activities including live music, kids activities, community demonstrations, a vendor market, Bingo, and car show. Day ends with fireworks at dusk. Shuttle from Otter Lake Elementary from 2 p.m. until after fireworks. Contact: whitebeartownship.org

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

‘COME BACK’

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 and Friday Sept. 18; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 and 26; 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 and 27 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center Black Box Theatre, 4941 Long Avenue, White Bear Lake Details: In a quirky, heartfelt comedy, Sky sets off on a road trip to honor a dear friend’s final wish. Unexpected detours, unlikely companions, and tender moments of grief and joy create a witty, touching journey about love, loss, and finding your way forward. Contact: 651-478-7427 or tickets@ lakeshoreplayers.org

TRIAD SENIOR PICNIC

When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16 Where: Podvin Park, 1700 9th St., White Bear Lake Details: Picnic followed by a short program on senior safety. Meet city officials, law enforcement and department staff. RSVP appreciated by not required. Contact: triadwbl@gmail.com

WHITE BEAR AREA SENIOR HEALTH FAIR When: Noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16 Where: White Bear Senior Center, 2399

Cedar Ave. Details: The fair will include organizations representing hospice care, senior housing, in-home care, hearing services, dermatology, eye care, independent senior living, bath safety and other services. Cub Pharmacy will provide flu shots. Contact: 651-407-1200

AGING IN THE COMMUNITY

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 Where: Sunrise Park District Senior Center 2399 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Educational event focused on how seniors can safely and comfortably remain in their own homes will give attendees a better understanding of how home care provides personal and daily living assistance, while home health delivers skilled medical services under a physician’s order. Call to register. Contact: 651-653-3121

RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY FRIENDS USED BOOK SALE When: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursday,

Sept. 17; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 Where: Ramsey County Library, 2180 Hamline Ave. N. Details: Shop huge selection of paperbacks, hardcovers, audiobooks, CDs and DVDs with proceeds supporting Ramsey County libraries. Contact: rclfriends.org/booksales

CARD MAKING EVENT

When: 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept, 17 Where: Community Health Club, 1430 Highway 96 E., White Bear Lake Details: Create new card designs. Space limited; call to register. Contact: 612-791-8507

‘THE SEVEN’ WOMEN OF ENDURING VISION COMMUNITY RECEPTION

When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave. Details: Meet the artists at 7 p.m. and view the new exhibit featuring painting, pottery, sculpture, textile and installation. Exhibit runs through Oct. 30. Contact: whitebeararts.org

ST. JOHN IN THE WILDERNESS RUMMAGE SALE

When: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 9 a.m.-noon Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: St. John in the Wilderness, 2175 First St., White Bear Lake Details: Annual fall rummage sale, with option to fill a bag on Saturday. Parking on Second St.

THIRD ANNUAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS RESOURCES FAIR

When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: White Bear Lake Area High School, 5045 Division Ave. Details: Visitors will be able to access hearing screenings, flu vaccinations and blood pressure checks, along with information about mental health, veterans services and other wellness resources. A standout attraction will feature an inflatable colon sponsored by MNGI that attendees can walk through. Contact: www.vhedc.com/event/healthand-wellness-resource-fair-2026

COMMUNITY & COFFEE WITH MAYOR NICKLAWSKE

When: 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: Lakewood Hills Park, 2110 Orchard Lane, White Bear Lake Details: The mayor will visit parks in each ward over the summer/ fall to chat with residents about ideas, questions, concerns or just conversation. Drop-in event. Contact: 651-429-8526

INDOOR GARAGE SALE

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake Details: Church garage sale features, small furniture, household items, toys, books, floral arrangements, artwork and more.

GLORIA’S 14TH ANNUAL SHORTEST MARATHON

When: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: Bald Eagle Avenue between Second and Third Streets, White Bear Lake Details: Join this one-block run to raise money for the White Bear Area Food Shelf. Treats before and after the race. Contact: 651-407-5310 or whitebearfoodshelf.org

BINGO AT WHITE BEAR TOWN HALL When: 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

Where: White Bear Town Hall, Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Road, White Bear Township Details: Join the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society for bingo. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

MUSIC ON MAPLE PRESENTS SALSA DEL SOL

When: 7-9:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 Where: White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church, 328 Maple St., Mahtomedi Details: Salsa band performs a variety of Caribbean music. Tickets are paywhat-you-can. Contact: zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ music-on-maple-salsa-del-sol

ONE LAST TRI

When: 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 Where: White Bear Lake County Park, 5050 Lake Ave. Details: Minnesota’s final triathlon of the season, featuring Olympic and Sprint distances, Aqua Bike options and relay teams. Routes through local horse farms and vineyards, and along the lake. Registration information online. Contact: mmraces.com/one-last-tri

FRAUD AND SCAMS AIMED AT SENIORS

When: 1-2:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 Where: Sunrise Park District Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Community class to learn about the common scams aimed at seniors, including phone, mail, email and Medicare fraud, and what to do if targeted. Registration required. Contact: 651-653-6121

POLKA AND PUMPKINS IN THE PARK

When: Noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 Where: Railroad Park, Washington Square and Fourth Street, White Bear Lake Details: Celebrate beginning of the most colorful season in Downtown White Bear Lake with DJ Polka music at the gazebo and pumpkin painting for kids. Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

SUMMER SIGNINGS

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Sept. 18 Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake Details: A.J. Marie will sign her debut sports romance, “Caught Looking” and Betty Brandt Passick will sign “Anatomy of a Death,” the third in her historical fiction gangster series. Contact: lakecountrybooksellers.com

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD SHELF DISTRIBUTION

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 and the third Saturday of the month Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 E. County Road F Details: Distribution of food to any family in need and considered low income. May register day of event. Contact: 651-492-8233 or cityvadnaisheights.com/foodshelf

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Second arrow

OPINION www.presspubs.com

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

ith the recent observance and commemoration of the 25 years that have passed since the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, an aspect that seems difficult to fully convey is the raw emotion and extreme uncertainty that followed in the hours, days and weeks after the attacks. Initially, no one really seemed to know what additional horrors might be coming and the fear and anxiety created by the imagined worst case scenarios was palpable and real. Another aspect that seems somewhat muted in our current political climate is the fact that America's historical allies and most of the world were sympathetic and unified in their condemnation of the mass killings. It's kind of heartbreaking that such profound feelings of unity Angle of and support were squandered over time. View The stories and first person Paul Dols accounts from 9/11 that were recently shared by local residents in the White Bear Press and other publications demonstrated the memorable and far reaching impact of the historic event. I also spotted a photo taken in Manhattan that day by Jeff Christensen, a colleague I first met many years ago at the Minnesota Daily newspaper. The image accompanied an article in The Guardian about the chance meeting and enduring friendship of two of only four individuals known to have survived from above the impact zone in either tower of the World Trade Center. I was surprised to hear the statistic that about 40% of the current population in the United States was either born after the terrorist attacks in 2001 or was too young to have a personal memory of the event. It makes me wonder what extreme emotions and uncertainty previous generations were dealing with following the Pearl Harbor attack, or the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. More recently, I've observed that analysis and criticism of how government and health officials handled the COVID-19 pandemic, usually doesn't take into account how much we didn't know or how bad things could have potentially gotten in the early stages of the outbreak. With the risk of sounding melodramatic, I celebrated a birthday during the initial lockdown and sincerely wondered — given all the risk factors and nightmarish accounts coming out of New York City and regions of Italy — if it might possibly be my last. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, getting through the pandemic proved to be a more divisive than unifying experience for many of us. The parable of the Second Arrow The Second Arrow, originally attributed to Buddhist teachings, is a parable about dealing with the unavoidable pain that life brings. A recent article titled “The Parable of the Second Arrow: Discovering the Difference Between Pain and Suffering” at shamashalidina.com helps explain the parable and how it can be interpreted with the help of modern research. The first arrow is described as the unavoidable pain that life can bring in a variety of ways, including injury, illness, aging and grief. The second arrow is described as our mental and emotional reaction to the first arrow, which can be expressed as anger, resentment, self-blame and catastrophizing. Among the key practical lessons is that everyone at some point in time will experience the pain of the first arrow simply by being human and that we have much more control over the (self-inflicted) pain and suffering caused by the second arrow. The hardship can be compounded by ruminating on a bad event, judging ourselves and fighting the reality of the situation. The initial shock and extreme emotions of the worst terrorist attacks in American history have faded over the last 25 years. Is it possible that the distant memories of the national unity and worldwide support that immediately followed this tragic event could inspire solutions and an alternative direction to our current reality? Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238 Distributed weekly in: White Bear Lake • White Bear Township • Mahtomedi Birchwood • Dellwood • Willernie • Gem Lake Pine Springs • Portions of Grant • Vadnais Heights

www.presspubs.com 651-407-1200 DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements appear in Press Publications’ publications, including print and other digital formats. Press Publications does not endorse or evaluate the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content. Press Publications reserves the right to refuse, reject, or cancel any ad for any reason at any time without liability.

Preserving meals and connections

hile summer lingers and Fall waits impatiently around the corner, many of us are pulled in multiple directions. The pinch of rising prices and having less time to be with friends and family has left many of us feeling disconnected and overwhelmed. Yet, many of the answers to being more in control of finances, more and Gardener's connected, more nourished Grapevine are right outside our doors, or at Michelle Bruhn furthest our local farmers’ markets. This is high harvest season in our area, and everything from the last of the zucchini (thank God) to tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, fall raspberries, etc… are maturing and available from both our gardens and local farmers. As a mom of two teenagers, I know it’s hard to find time to do everything, but taking 5-10 minutes to preserve something now can help you save time, money and a store of delicious foods for the winter ahead. You can do this with store-bought food as well. This makes you

part of the solution in reducing food waste, which is at an alltime high. The EPA reports that in America about 1/3 of all food grown is wasted—and costs the average American roughly $728 annually. And no, you don’t have to figure out pressure canning to preserve food! Methods Some of the easiest foods to preserve can be frozen. Tomatoes? Just core them or even put them whole into a freezer bag to defrost on a winter weekend and make sauce then. Zucchini can be shredded and tossed into a freezer bag for baking and peppers can be chopped and put directly into a freezer bag for spicing up winter meals. Other common veggies like green beans, corn, broccoli and kale should be blanched before frozen. Blanching means putting the vegetables into boiling water or steaming for 2-4 minutes, depending on the vegetable, before freezing. Drying herbs that are growing in your garden can brew delightful herbal teas or add to your spice rack. Fermenting is also simpler than it seems and adds digestibility and nutrients to your food. Simple sauerkraut

(just cabbage, salt and time) to pickles and kimchi, and even hot pepper sauces are delicious and easy to manage. Please use only well-tested and trusted resources. Our own U of M has an online ‘Food Preservation Portal’ that breaks down the basics while the National Center for Home Food Preservation is where I find reliable recipes for all kinds of preserving. Connections If I can urge you to try one thing during peak harvest time, it would be to buy one of your favorite foods from a farmer (or have grown yourself) to preserve for the winter. Nothing beats eating homemade applesauce or some sweet corn when you can remember the day you picked it, or the farmer that grew them. Eating those foods over the winter keeps you nourished and connected to our beautiful land in ways that we’re all longing for. Take the time now, so your winter self can feel the warmth of these September days.

Michelle Bruhn is founder of ForksintheDirt.com. She’s a local food advocate, educator and coauthor of the book, "Small-Scale Homesteading."

WHITE BEAR / VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES • Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election. • Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that. • Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.” Carter C. Johnson - Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson - Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Patty Steele - General Manager marketing@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm - Managing Editor whitebearnews@presspubs.com

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (CONTINUED) PAID LETTER Candidate is concerning I am concerned for my community that Craig Johnson has resurfaced as a candidate for Vadnais Heights City Council in the upcoming election. A Star Tribune headline from May 26, 2020 reads “Vadnais Heights Council member Craig Johnson resigns after exposure of bigoted social media posts.” The mayor at that time is quoted in the article “I was shocked and disappointed to read Council Member Johnson’s inflammatory comments and posts on his social media page. Council member Johnson’s rhetoric is not acceptable for any representative of this city.” I have lived in Vadnais Heights since I was in the fourth grade. Over the years, I've watched our community grow from a small town with hobby farms into a thriving suburb of nearly 13,000 residents. Along with that growth, there has been an increase in diversity. Today, approximately 20% of Vadnais Heights residents are people of color, and more than 47% of students at Vadnais Heights Elementary are students of color. I am the mother of two biracial children. Our city's vision is to be welcoming and inclusive, and our elected officials should reflect and uphold those values. A council member's responsibility is to serve every resident, not just those who share their personal beliefs, and to ensure that all members of the community, especially those who have historically been marginalized, feel represented and respected. As voters, we should ask ourselves whether Craig Johnson can objectively and fairly represent all residents of Vadnais Heights. Public trust is earned through integrity, accountability, and a demonstrated commitment to serving everyone equally. The future of our community depends on leaders who unite us rather than divide us. Our current city council members have expanded a tremendous amount of time and energy since 2020 in creating a welcoming environment for all residents. Mike Krachmer, Kelly Jozwowski and Katherine Doll Kanne all have my vote this November. Amy Varner Vadnais Heights

relentlessly for students on the school board, and advocates for her community through her involvement in a variety of organizations. Among her many endorsements, two of my favorites are the Save the Boundary Waters Action Fund and MN DFL Senior Caucus. Angela has also been recognized by Moms Demand Action as a Gun Sense Candidate. I believe Angela will represent the values that are vital to building strong communities. Vote Angela for State House Representative in District 33A. Kathleen Daniels White Bear Lake

PAID LETTER Candidate cares about childrens health As someone who works with children and teens in the hospital environment, I often encounter patients who are dealing with the physical effects of vaping. It is alarming how commonplace vape usage is becoming among young people. We all know that the minds of humans are not fully mature until well past 18, the age when people in Minnesota can legally buy vapes, much as they would alcohol. However, vape usage among children remains high. I applaud State Senator Heather Gustafson supporting SF 4351 that banned targeted marketing of vapes to children. The 24/7 availability of marketing that our youth are subjected to is a huge burden, particularly for items that are known to be hazardous to one’s overall health. Any effort to minimize this onslaught of encouragement to jeopardize one’s health targeted at our children is a positive move for our public health. When one considers if our incumbent state senator is worthy of another term, this level of care about the health of our children is one of many reasons that I will be voting for Heather Gustafson to serve a second term. Claire Jokinen Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER Leadership means showing up As Vadnais Heights approaches its mayoral election, voters face a clear choice about the kind of leadership our community needs. Effective local leadership requires daily dedication, active engagement, and a consistent presence in residents’ lives. Mayor Krachmer’s record shows that he has devoted both his time and his attention to Vadnais Heights. Mike Krachmer has made accessibility a foundation of his time as mayor. Through Breakfast with the Mayor, office hours at City Hall, and the numerous community events he attends, he remains a constant and visible presence. More important, these opportunities allow him to hear directly from residents and respond to their concerns. Mike also spends his time representing Vadnais Heights at meetings of the Regional Council

PAID LETTER Strong and committed candidate I am writing to endorse a remarkable candidate, Angela Thompson, for State House Representative in District 33A. Angela and I have served together for almost five years on the White Bear Lake Area Schools School Board. I have known Angela to be honest, hardworking, and courageous. As a social worker, Angela works for what is best for individuals, understanding that every individual has a story and value. Angela believes in people first. Whether you are a student, a worker, a parent, a senior citizen, or all of the above, YOU matter. Angela knows strong communities are made up of individuals who deserve the right to an excellent education, affordable health care, affordable housing, and employment that supports and sustains them. She walks the talk. Angela advocates for her clients in her role as a social worker, advocates

of Mayors, League of Minnesota Cities and participated with the Cities for Safe and Stable Communities Coalition, a local government-led effort dedicated to restoring stability and trust in government. His active engagement has translated into tangible victories for Vadnais Heights. Under Mike’s leadership he has increased grant funding substantially for city infrastructure and environmental projects, utilizing staffing resources and collaborating directly with legislators. He enthusiastically supported Vadnais Heights joining both Green Step Cities and Partners in Energy. These are free programs that help cities achieve their sustainability initiatives and focus on reducing energy costs for residents. These results did not happen by chance or through leadership from a distance. They happened because Mayor Krachmer was present – listening to residents, advocating for their needs, and working collaboratively with the city council, staff, city partners, and legislators. Leadership cannot be accomplished from the sidelines or reduced to campaign slogans. It requires a leader who knows our community, understands its challenges through direct experience, and is willing to engage with residents. Mayor Krachmer has earned my trust through his consistent presence and record of service. Let’s keep Vadnais Heights moving forward by reelecting him. Larrie Pittelko Vadnais Heights

Irresponsible decisions I have been ruminating on our city roadmap for a while to put into letter form. Our local government has been extremely successful in creating big government at the municipal level, raising taxes by a whopping 30% over two years, along with school levies for many and runaway Ramsey County increases - with another huge increase forthcoming. They have expanded city staff with salaries and benefits near $500K with new roles, one of which is cleaner water with VLAMO literally next door, and sending a $6500 trail assessment love note to our Greenhaven neighbors as signs of protest are dotted in many yards along the street. They voted themselves a raise in order to better serve us, and let’s not forget the decision to try to force construction of a new $57 million (after interest) bonded fire station, despite having two fire stations last built in 2009 and still paying on it. It was uncovered that $1.2 million of that was spent in pre-planning. KSTP news reported that property taxes could increase another $60/month/ household. As I have witnessed as a community SEE LETTERS, PAGE 10

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WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • Folding chairs were stolen in the 2500 block of Sumac Ridge Sept. 2. • Officers responded to a domestic dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Sept. 2. • Graffiti was found at Jack Yost Park Sept. 2. • Officers arrested two men for felony burglary and controlled substance violation after an investigation of a 911 hangup call found that an active burglary was in progress in the 3700 block of Labore Road in Gem Lake Sept. 3. Suspected methamphetamines, large amounts of jewelry and nearly $88,000 were recovered. • A Maplewood woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop Sept. 4 near Interstates 35E and 694. • Officers responded to a domestic disturbance Sept. 4 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. • Harassment was reported in the 1600 block of Ninth Street Sept. 4. • Harassment was reported in the 2000 block of Sixth Street Sept. 5. • A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop on Spruce

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS Place near Prairie Road Sept. 6. • Disorderly conduct was reported Sept. 6 in the 2700 block of County Road E East and the 1800 block of Buerkle Road. • A person was reported missing in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. Sept. 7. • Officers responded to a report of disorderly conduct in the 4600 block of Highway 61 Sept. 7. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the area of Oak Terrace and Orchard Lane Sept. 8. • A driver sustained minor injuries after colliding into the garage of a residence in the 4900 block of Johnson Avenue Sept. 8. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4700 block of Bald Eagle Avenue Sept. 8. • Theft was reported in the 1100 block of Goose Lake Road Sept. 8. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Sept. 8. • A driver was cited for failure to yield and an instructional permit violation following a two-vehicle accident with minor injuries at White Bear Avenue and Buerkle Road Sept. 8. • Officers responded to a civil problem in the 3900 block of Van Dyke Street Sept. 8. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2700 block of County Road E Sept. 8.

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

Dellwood

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies took a mail theft report on Aug. 10 from Many Levels Road.

Grant

• A driving complaint led deputies to arrest a motorist for DWI Aug. 9 on Manning Avenue N. and 75th Street N. • A man out working in the 11000 block of Irish Avenue N. Aug. 11 reported being bitten by a dog. • A report of suspicious sparking under two railcars in the 10000 block of Ideal Avenue Aug. 14 turned out to be Soo Line railroad workers grinding a rail down. • Deputies responded to an electrical hazard report on 110th Street N. and Lockridge Court N. Aug. 14 about a tree that had fallen

BUSINESS BRIEFS New Perspective Senior Living changes name New Perspective Senior Living has been renamed StoryPoint Senior Living after a recent change in ownership. The independent living, assisted living and memory care community located at 3820 Hoffman Road, White Bear Lake, was

on electrical lines, causing the transformer to blow. The power company was called. • Following a noise complaint at 11:31 p.m. Aug. 14 in the 8000 block of Itasca Trail N. deputies asked the hostess of the party to turn the music down, which she did immediately while apologizing for bothering her neighbors. • A motorist in the 8000 block of Manning Avenue N. was arrested for drug possession at 3:12 a.m. Aug. 15 after being pulled over for equipment violations. • A driver on the phone while driving down Manning Avenue N. at Dellwood Road N. Aug. 15 was cited for that safety violation.

Mahtomedi

• A burglary was reported on Aug. 9 on 60th Street N. • Deputies conducted a traffic stop Aug. 9 on Dartmoor Road and Fernwood Place for failure to display current registration and cited the driver for the tardy tabs.

originally developed as The Waters of White Bear Lake. Ownership changes began in 2025. StoryPoint Group is a nationwide operator of senior housing communities.

The Women Collective launches private label The Women Collective, a curated retail experience in downtown White Bear

CHURCH BRIEF Redeemer visits arboretum

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

Redeemer Lutheran Church will tour the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Thursday, Oct. 15. The bus will load at the church at 9:45 a.m. and depart at 10 a.m. During the tour, visitors can peruse the gardens, walk the trails, take photos and visit the gift shop. Approximate return time is 4 p.m. Those who wish to attend should RSVP by Sept. 30 in person at the church’s welcome desk, over the phone by calling 651-429-5411 or online at https://form.jotform.com/262226077056153. For questions, contact Barb Wojahn at 651-429-2557.

Lake, is celebrating its second anniversary Sept. 17 with the launch of its signature private label, Uplift. The collection is an extension of The Women Collective’s mission to create experiences and offerings that inspire confidence, purpose, encouragement and joy in everyday life. “Being a part of the downtown White Bear Lake community for the past two

The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township:

Vadnais Heights • On Aug. 30 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies issued theft citations and trespass notices to four people, including one from Roseville, one from Mahtomedi and one from Eagan after they were caught attempting to steal from Walmart. • On Aug. 31 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies responded to a report of shoplifting at Walmart and issued a theft citation to a 40-year-old woman from St. Paul who was caught attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise. • On Aug. 31 at the intersection of Highway 61 and Buerkle Road, deputies issued a citation for open bottle to an 85-year-old man from Maplewood after making a traffic stop on the Ford F150 pickup truck he was driving. • On Sept. 1 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies took a report about a suspect who allegedly took a business’s credit card and used it at Walmart without their knowledge. The matter is under investigation. • On Sept. 1 in the 1500 block of Buerkle Road, a 55-year-old man reported that someone stole items from his home— and he thinks he knows who did it. The incident is under investigation. • On Sept. 2 in the 100 block of East Vadnais Blvd., an animal control officer assisted with retrieving a stray dog along the roadside.

years has been incredibly fulfilling, and I am thrilled to be able to do what I do in a community I love. Our signature collection was the next step, and every item in the private collection has been curated with intention, reflecting the heart of our community and the values that bring us together,” said founder Amelia Reigstad. The anniversary celebration will include sips,

SCHOOL BRIEF White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi students named National Merit Semifinalists Three local high school seniors have been named semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, giving them an opportunity to compete for one of about 6,700 scholarships worth approximately $24 million to be awarded next spring. Named semifinalists are: • Charles R. DeHaan, Mahtomedi High School • James J. Colby, White Bear Lake Area High School • Haaken K. Lein, White Bear Lake Area High School The National Merit Scholarship Corporation

• On Sept. 2 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies made an investigative traffic stop in the Walmart parking lot that led to the arrests of a 44-year-old man from Minneapolis and a 29-yearold woman from St. Paul for drug possession. • On Sept. 4 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies cited two adults for attempting to leave Walmart without paying for merchandise. • On Sept. 5 at the intersection of Twin Lake Blvd. and Vadnais Blvd. West, a 27-year-old man from New Hope reported that someone stole his Kawasaki EX400 Sport. The matter is under investigation. • On Sept. 5 in the 900 block of East County Road E, deputies responded to Target after one of their “guests” left the store without paying for merchandise. The matter is under investigation.

White Bear Township • On Sept. 2 in the 4200 block of Pond View Drive, a 30-yearold man reported receiving threats from someone claiming to be a member of the Mexican Cartel if he didn’t send thousands of dollars. The incident is under investigation. • On Sept. 2 in the 3900 block of Homewood Avenue, a 73-yearold man reported the theft of a package from his front step. The matter is under investigation. • On Sept. 4 in the 700 block of Gilfillan Court, a 76-yearold woman reported finding credit card charges on her statement that were not hers. The matter is under investigation.

snacks and giveaways and more. Many of the brands The Women Collective partnered with on developing under its private label will be in attendance. The event takes place from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 17 with the reveal at 6 p.m. The Women Collective is located at 2186 Third Street (104A), White Bear Lake. Learn more at www. thewomencollective.com.

recently announced more than 16,000 semifinalists nationwide. They represent less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors and were selected based on their performance on the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. About 95% of semifinalists are expected to advance to the finalist level. To qualify, students must submit a detailed scholarship application, maintain an outstanding academic record, receive a school endorsement, write an essay and earn SAT or ACT scores that confirm their earlier qualifying-test performance. Winners will be announced in a series of national releases beginning in April and concluding in July 2027.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

FINANCIAL PLANNING Renovations with the biggest bang for your buck direct their efforts to those projects that will offer the highest rate of return on investment. Each year Zonda Home, in conjunction with Remodeling magazine, puts together a list of high-return projects. Exterior projects drive the most value for owners who are selling their homes, and they consistently top the list of highROI improvements. Here are five projects offering a strong ROI that homeowners may want to consider.

Home renovations are a significant part of homeownership. Naturally, people want to make their own personal marks on the homes they buy and ensure that their properties fit their needs and wants.

While many renovations add value to a home, some offer more value than others. When allocating dollars to renovations, particularly when finances are tight, homeowners may want to

1. Garage door replacement: A garage door replacement is part of the curb appeal improvements homeowners can consider. At an average cost of $4,672, it offers a recouped cost of 267.7% according to the 2025 Zonda report. 2. Steel door replacement: Also boasting an ROI north of 200%, a steel door installation is a wise choice for homeowners

who want to drive up the value of their homes. 3. Manufactured stone veneer: Manufactured stone veneer is a manmade masonry product that looks like natural stone but is lightweight and easier to install. It can offer a recouped cost of 207.9% on the $11,702 investment. 4. Fiber-cement siding replacement: Homeowners in the market for new siding can consider fiber-cement siding, which will see the investment recoup slightly more than 100% of its cost. 5. Minor kitchen remodel: Kitchens are the heart of a home, and a minor remodel offers a 113% return. Inside the home the golden rule is to keep things simple. Minor remodels tend to offer a better rate of return

than major ones. Buyers will pay for move-in ready and updated, but sellers likely will not recoup the costs for luxury upgrades or over-the-top renovations. It’s important to note that 2025 was the first time a practical backup generator made the list of top improvements. Falling into the number seven spot, the generator averaged a return of 95.3%, which underscores how homeowners are gearing improvements toward the changing climate and unpredictable weather. Those remodeling primarily to increase equity for future sales may want to consider exterior projects and basic kitchen improvements.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

NORTHEAST METRO 916 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA

BOARD NOTES AUGUST 5, 2026 The regular meeting of the School Board of Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District was held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Bellaire School and the following business was transacted. Meeting Called to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Thelander at 6:00 p.m. Roll Call of Attendance Members present: Knisely-12, Palmer-13, Jones-14, Forsberg-16, Striker-282, Nitardy-622, Clark-623, Thompson-624, Dols-833, and Thelander-834. Absent: Bock-621, Stout-832, and Rebelein-831, and. Also present: Dr. Val Rae Boe, superintendent. Approval of Agenda Adopted the agenda as presented, limited discussion to the approved agenda, and accepted the list of items proposed for consent adoption. Board Calendar Dates • Wednesday, August 26, 2026 — Career and Tech Open House from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. • Wednesday, August 26, 2026 — Karner Blue Open House from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. • Wednesday, August 26, 2026 — Pankalo Open House from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. • Wednesday, August 26, 2026 — Quora Secondary School Open House from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. • Wednesday, August 26, 2026 — Auditory Oral Open House from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. • Thursday, August 27, 2026 — Metro Heights Academy Open House from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. • Thursday, August 27, 2026 — South Campus Open House from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. • Thursday, August 27, 2026 — WELS Open House from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. • Thursday, August 27, 2026 — East View Academy Open House from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. • Wednesday, September 2, 2026 - School Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m. at Bellaire District Office • Wednesday, September 23, 2026 - School Board Retreat at 4:30 p.m. at Bellaire District Office Questions and/or Comments from Citizens Present on Non-Agenda Items None. Presentation: Legislative Update Valerie Dosland, lobbyist, presented the School Board with a review of the 2026 legislative session, gave a preview of the upcoming year, and spoke about the Intermediate legislative priorities. Presentation: Highlights & Opportunities: 916 Student and Family Surveys The School Board was presented with the results of the CAREI student and family survey. Presentation: 2026 Q-Comp Results The 2026 Q-Comp results were shared with the School Board. Superintendent’s Report Superintendent Boe commented on the following items that were included in her written report: (a) Member District Highlights; (b) Summer at 916; (c) Fall Special Education Waitlist Reduction; and (d) Staffing Retention and Positions Filled Increase. Approval of the Consent Agenda Approved the consent items, accepted as part of the approval of the agenda, consistent with the recommended actions presented by the administration. Approval of Minutes Payment of Bills and ACH Payments Personnel Establishment of Board Professional Memberships for 2026-27 Waiver of Pledge of Allegiance Requirement Approval of Administrative Organizational Chart Approved the organizational chart for 2026-27 as presented. Adopt Proposed Policy Modifications Adopted policies 208, 402, 423, 521, 705, 713, 714, 801, and 904 as revised. Approval of Canvas Health Contract Approved the agreement between the Canvas Health and Northeast Metro 916 in the amount of $180,227.90 for the period of September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2027. Approval of DBT Contract Approved the contract between Northeast Metro 916 and DBT in the amount of $60,900.00 between 7/1/26 and 6/30/27. Approval of Managed Security Services with Arctic Wolf Accepted the quote from CDW-G for contracted Aurora MDR Services through Arctic Wolf in the amount of $75,176.25. Board Forum Directors from Districts 622, 624, 833, and 834 shared highlights and updates from their respective districts. Meeting Adjourned Adjourned the meeting at 7:19 p.m. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 16, 2026.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:02 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Jebens-Singh. AGENDA of September 1, 2026 was presented for approval. Motion by McGuire, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. MINUTES of August 25, 2026 were presented for approval. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS Board of Commissioners – Settlement Agreement in Felicia Marie Wilson v. Ramsey County (Court File No. 23-cv-01309) (KMM/SGE). Motion by JebensSingh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-115) Property Tax, Records & Election Services – Joint Powers Agreement with the State of Minnesota for Election Recount Services. Motion by JebensSingh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-116) Property Management – Safe and Secure Courthouse Initiative Grant for Ramsey County. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-117) Emergency Communications – Joint Power Agreement with the Metropolitan Emergency Services Board. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-118) Community & Economic Development – Fund Transfer from Boys Totem Town and Maplewood Properties to Redevelopment Implementation Project. Presented by Ling Becker, County Manager, and Josh Olson, Director, Community and Economic Development. Discussion can be found on archived video. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2026-119). PRESENTATION Emergency Communications – Joint Powers Agreement Modernization. For information and discussion only. Presented by Nancie Pass, Director, Emergency Communications Department. 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.

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BOARD CHAIR UPDATE Presented by Chair Ortega. Discussion can be found on archived video. ADJOURNMENT Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:34 a.m. CLOSED MEETING Pursuant to Minnesota Statues 13D.05, subdivision 3(c), the Ramsey County Board met in a closed meeting, which was not open to the public. In Re: Rice Creek Commons Outlot A of the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant Site. The property that is the subject of this meeting is located in the City of Arden Hills. The Closed Meeting was called to order at 10:46 a.m. Present: Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McGuire, Miller, Moran, McMurtrey, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Also Present: Ling Becker, County Manager; Kari Collins, Deputy County Manager, Economic Growth and Community Investment Service Team; Josh Olson, Director, Community and Economic Development; Ella Mitchell, Manager, Community and Economic Development; Kathleen Ritter, Assistant County Attorney, County Attorney’s Office; Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, County Attorney’s Office; Andy Hestness, Deputy Director, Community and Economic Development; Jason Patten, Claims Administrator, Compliance and Ethics Office; Amelia Cruver, Chief Financial Officer, Finance; and Jason Yang, Chief Clerk, County Manager’s Office. The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners authorized the Ramsey County staff to proceed as discussed in this closed meeting. The closed meeting was adjourned at 12:00 p.m. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 16, 2026.

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-PUBW31109-KB OPENING DATE: OCTOBER 08, 2026 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT, SEEKS RESPONSES FROM QUALIFIED CONTRACTORS/FIRMS WHO ARE ABLE TO MAINTAIN URBAN CANOPY AND ADDRESS A WIDE ARRAY OF FORESTRY AND ARBORICULTURE NEEDS. PRE-SOLICITATION RESPONSE CONFERENCE: Zoom Link found in solicitation document, September 24, 2026, 11:00 AM CST. SOLICITATION: RFB-PRRTF2062-KB OPENING DATE: OCTOBER 08, 2026 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PROPERTY TAX, RECORDS & ELECTION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A CONTRACTOR TO DEMOLISH, REMOVE, AND DISPOSE OF ALL STRUCTURES, VEHICLES, AND DEBRIS FROM THE PROPERTY LOCATED IN WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 16, 2026.

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

IN PROCEEDINGS SUBSEQUENT TO INITIAL REGISTRATION OF LAND COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-5057 ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE In the Matter of the Petition of Realty Pros LLC in Relation to Certificate of Title No. 595567 issued for land in the County of Ramsey and State of Minnesota and legally described as follows: The East 1/2 of the West 45 feet, Lot 6, Block 2, Edgerton Grove Plat 2, except the North 87 feet thereof TO: ALL PARTIES WITH AN INTEREST IN THIS LAND, PARTICULARLY: OCCUPANTS OF THE PROPERTY, ALEXANDRA B. ARMSTRONG AND JUSTIN D. ARMSTRONG. The Court will hold a hearing on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. This hearing will not be held in-person at the Courthouse. The hearing will be held remotely via Zoom, and appearances shall be by video unless otherwise directed. Due to Minnesota Supreme Court Order ADM208001, this Court will rule on the Petition in this case after administrative review of submissions and remote hearing. YOU ARE ORDERED to show cause, if there is any, why this Court should not enter an Order as follows: NOW THEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED, the Registrar of Titles of Ramsey County, upon the recording of a certified copy of this Order from Court File No. 62-CV-26-5057 on Certificate of Title No. 595567 shall cancel said certificate and to enter a new certificate in the name of Heiserman Homes LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company, 2686 Riviera Dr N, White Bear Township, MN 55110, free of all the memorials now appearing on said cancelled certificate up to and including Doc. No. 2821276 and free of the memorial of this Order, except carry forward the existing recital and memorials of Doc. Nos. 2813664, 2813665, 281666 and 2821277. If you wish to object to the entry of the Order set forth above or if you wish to attend the remote hearing, you must contact the Examiner of Titles office at least three (3) business days prior to the hearing date, and the Court will email you the Zoom link at least one (1) business day before the hearing. The Minnesota Judicial Branch uses strict security controls for all remote technology when conducting remote hearings. Visit our website at www. mncourts.gov/Remote-Hearings for more information on remote hearings. Examiner of Titles contact information: • Phone: 651-266-2886 • Email: 2ndExaminerofTitlesOffice@courts.state.mn.us You must provide: your name, mailing address, email address, telephone number, and the court file number. If no objections are filed, the Petition may be granted without further notice. If any objection is filed, the matter will be a contested case and assigned to a judge. If you DO NOT OBJECT to entry of that Order, you are EXCUSED from appearing at the hearing, and the Order may be entered without you. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED, that as applicable, this Order to Show Cause be served in the manner recommended in the Report(s) of Examiner on file herein. BY THE COURT: /s/ Mark Ireland Aug 18, 2026 Judge of District Court Entry of this Order is recommended. Wayne D. Anderson, Examiner of Titles By /s/ Wayne D. Anderson Aug 18, 2026 Attorney for Petitioner Mark A.V. Petersen (#0278580), Petersen, PLC 5620 Memorial Ave N, Ste E, Stillwater, MN 55082 651-351-0500; mark@petersenplc.com Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 9 and 16, 2026.

VADNAIS LAKE AREA WATER MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION (VLAWMO) REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

TO PROVIDE LEGAL COUNSEL SERVICES August 27, 2026 LEGAL COUNSEL. The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) seeks proposals from qualified firms to provide professional legal counsel services on an “as needed” basis. The VLAWMO Board is seeking a renewal of legal counsel services to address a continued need. VLAWMO will select a firm based on experience, technical capacity, billing rate, responsiveness and the scope of services listed here: stormwater management, public drainage, & utility issues; contract & agreement review; legal boundary updates; Wetland Conservation Act appeals; enforcement action; and Joint Powers Agreement updates, as requested. A full copy of the RFP is available on the VLAWMO website: https://www.vlawmo.org/sub/news/request-proposals-legal-services. Please submit proposals electronically via PDF by 3:00 PM on October 1, 2026 to phil.belfiori@vlawmo.org. Questions should be addressed to Phil Belfiori, Administrator, by email /phone. Both questions and proposals: phil. belfiori@vlawmo.org. 651-204-6073. Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 9 and 16, 2026.

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-762 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF CO-PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL) In re the Estate of Scott Thomas Klohn, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed September 1, 2026 for informal appointment of co-personal representatives has been filed with the Court. No will has been presented for probate. The Amended Application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Self-Represented Litigants Edward Milton Klohn, 289 Karen Drive #249, Woodbury MN 55129 Gregg Daniel Klohn, 4455 North Shore Drive, Orono MN 55364 as Co-Personal Representatives of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the Co-Personal Representatives. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the Co-Personal Representatives have full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the CoPersonal Representatives or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred. Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar Theresa Ames, Court Administrator Dated: 9/4/2026 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 16 and 23, 2026.

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

COURT FILE NUMBER: 62-PR-26-781 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS ( WITHOUT A WILL) In re the Estate of Joel Nicholas Floyd Paulson, a/k/a Joel Paulson and Joel N.F. Paulson, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on September 9, 2026 for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Court. No will has been presented for probate. The Amended Application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Jeanette Paulson 3532 Minnesota Avenue, Duluth MN 55802 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as Personal Representative, or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat.§ 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat.§ 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred. Attorney for Personal Representative Haley Jo Klemm Webb Attorney License No.: 507157 Fryberger Law Firm 302 West Superior Street, Suite 700, Duluth MN 55802 Telephone: 218-725-6865 / E-Mail: hwebb@fryberger.com Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar Theresa Ames, Court Administrator Dated: 9/10/26 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 16 and 23, 2026.

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-666 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL) The Estate of Por Choua Yang, a/k/a Porchoua Yang, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed August 28, 2026 for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Court. No will has been presented for probate. The Amended Application has been granted. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following Self-Represented Litigant: Chong Khue Yang, 1288 Park Street, Saint Paul MN 55117 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as Personal Representative, or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred. Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar Theresa Ames, Court Administrator Dated: 9/1/26 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on September 16 and 23, 2026.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 www.presspubs.com

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equipment or experience needed, just a

willingness to move! Winter RecPrograms Programs RegistrationOpen Open Winter Winter Rec Rec Programs – – Registration Open Winter Rec Programs ––Registration Registration Open

Sprinkling Restrictions Oncue cuewith with thesnow, snow,our ourwinter winterrec rec On On cue with the the snow, our winter rec On cue with the snow, our winter rec Ramsey are County currently experiprograms areopen openis for registration. Youth programs programs are open for for registration. registration. Youth Youth programs are open for registration. Youth encing severe drought. The city asks basketball, floor hockey, indoor soccer, and basketball, basketball, floor floor hockey, hockey, indoor indoor soccer, soccer, and basketball, floor hockey, indoor soccer, and and residents toChaun be aware theprograms sprinkling adult TaiChi Chi Chaun andof yoga programs are adult adult Tai Tai Chi Chaun and and yoga yoga programs are are adult Tai Chi Chaun and yoga programs are restrictions turf lawns. Residents available. Stayfor busy with usthis this winter: and available. available. Stay Stay busy busy with with us us this winter: winter: available. Stay busy with us this winter: businesses can find their zone and the www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register www.cityvadnaisheights.com/register review at cityvadnaisheights. Newto tothe ourpolicy recreation catalogthis this New New to our our recreation recreation catalog catalog this New to our recreation catalog this com/watering winter Learnto to.Snowshoe Snowshoeclasses! classes!Learn Learn winter winter ----Learn Learn to Snowshoe classes! Learn winter Learn to Snowshoe classes! Learn thebasics basicsand andgain gainconfidence confidencethrough through the the basics and gain confidence through the basics and gain confidence through Tree guidedSale hike.Snowshoes Snowshoesprovided! provided! aa guided guided hike. hike. Snowshoes provided! aaPurchase guided hike. Snowshoes provided! awelcome tree at (14 a significant discount Ages 7+ are welcome (14 and undermust must Ages Ages 7+ 7+ are are welcome (14 and and under must Ages 7+ are welcome (14 sale. and under under must through the 2026 tree Pay for your be accompanied by an adult). www. be be accompanied accompanied by by an an adult). adult). www. www. be accompanied bythen an adult). www. tree online and pick up your tree on cityvadnaisheights.com/register cityvadnaisheights.com/register cityvadnaisheights.com/register cityvadnaisheights.com/register September 26 at Community Park. New this year: A select number of residents located in high-priority areas are eligible

for free tree planting services. Join the

waitlistRinks online at tree-trust.myshopify. Skating Rinks Skating Skating Rinks Skating Rinks

com to learn more! the This opportunity is Weather permitting, theice ice rinksat at Weather Weather permitting, permitting, the ice rinks rinks at Weather permitting, the ice rinks at possible via a partnership Community Park andWestfield Westfieldwith ParkTreeTshould Community Community Park Park and and Westfield Park Park should should Community Park and Westfield Park should rust. be open.Visit Visitour ourwebsite websiteor orcall callCity CityHall Hallfor for be be open. open. Visit our website or call City Hall for be open. Visit our website or call City Hall for updatesas asthey theybecome becomeavailable. available. updates updates as they become available. updates as they become available. VLAWMO Watershed Action

Volunteers Winter Shindig Meeting Winter Winter Shindig Shindig Winter ShareShindig your ideas, meet watershed

Embracewinter winterwith withVadnais VadnaisHeights Heights Embrace Embrace winter with Vadnais Heights Embrace winter with Vadnais Heights residents, and get involved in protecting Parks &Recreation! Recreation! Enjoy hotchocolate, chocolate, Parks Parks & & Recreation! Enjoy Enjoy hot hot chocolate, Parks & Recreation! Enjoy hot chocolate, local waters. Joinsnowshoeing VLAWMO’s volunteer cookies, iceskating, skating, snowshoeing and all cookies, cookies, ice ice skating, snowshoeing and and all all cookies, ice skating, snowshoeing and all group on September 17 from 6 - 7:30 p.m. things winter! Join us for the Winter Shindig things things winter! winter! Join Join us us for for the the Winter Winter Shindig Shindig things Join us for the Winter Shindig for anwinter! upcoming meeting to learn more on Saturday, January 14 at Community Park, on on Saturday, Saturday, January January 14 14 at at Community Community Park, Park, on Saturday, January 14 at Community Park, about localRoad opportunities provide 651 ECounty County Road F,from from2222to toand pm. FREE 651 651 E E County Road F, F, from to 4444pm. pm. FREE FREE 651 E County Road F, from to pm. FREE input on what’s happened so far in 2026. all ages welcome. No pre-registration is --- all all ages ages welcome. welcome. No pre-registration pre-registration is is all agesrequested welcome. No No is RSVP atpre-registration VLAWMO.org/ required. required. required. required. events.

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HEARING LOSS: Experts recommend testing every 1-to-3 years after age 50 FROM PAGE 1

system, they’re shared nerve pathways,” Sheets said. “Even mild hearing loss can triple a person’s risk of falling … When you are less aware of your surroundings, less aware of noises around you, then I think you lose that spatial awareness. That can cause issues with feeling stable.” Hearing aids can mitigate many of these risks and are more convenient and less noticeable than ever before. “I work in the industry, and a lot of times, I have

to (take a hard) look at the patient to know if they’re wearing them or not,” said Sheets. “They’re pretty darn invisible, especially when inserted correctly.” Sheets also noted that the earlier those with hearing loss seek help, the easier they will find the adjustment process to be. The gradual nature of hearing loss, however, can make knowing when to seek help tricky. Younk recommends people get their hearing tested once every 10 years; after age 50, hearing should be tested every one to three years.

Dr. Katherine Sheets

Dr. Rebecca Younk

Younk said that possible signs of hearing loss include needing closed captions to watch TV, asking people to repeat themselves more frequently, especially in a poor acoustic environment, or noticing

that family members are mumbling much more than they used to. “If you can’t hear the fact that you’ve just changed from carpet to hardwood floor, that’s a good (sign),” Younk said. Both doctors also

gave tips on how to protect one’s hearing. Younk noted that being in close proximity to a jackhammer without protection for even five seconds can cause hearing loss. Less obvious and more pernicious, however, are frequent, sustained noises. Farmers, for instance, suffer hearing loss from loud equipment and noisy livestock. Dental hygienists, meanwhile, are exposed to constant ringing from drills. Sheets, meanwhile, said that many people set earbuds and AirPods too loud. She recommends

people go into their smartphones’ settings and turn on headphone notifications to alert them if they are listening to something too loud for too long. “The number of people that have constant AirPods, earbuds … going in their ears all the time?” said Sheets. “I think we will be seeing a lot of hearing loss earlier in life.” Staff Writer Logan Gion can be reached at shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com or at 651-407-1226

VADNAIS HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL NOTES • Sept. 13-19, 2026 was proclaimed as Direct Support Professional Recognition Week in Vadnais Heights. Direct Support Professionals (DSP) such as those who work for Merrick, Inc.—based in Vadnais Heights— provide a wide range of care for people with disabilities. Merrick, Inc. Executive Director Mike Greenbaum addressed the city council. “I’d like to say how much we appreciate at Merrick being in Vadnais Heights and the great partnership we have,” he said. “Being in a supportive community really helps us do what we do.” He added that Merrick employs about 150 people, 100 of which are DSP. “They are the ones who do all the hard work on a daily basis to provide the support to the people we serve at Merrick. It’s truly a joy to be the executive director of an organization that has so many people that are passionate about making a meaningful difference to the people that we serve on a daily basis.” • A conditional use permit (CUP) for transportation company Schmitty

& Sons was approved for 4000 Labore Rd. The business will build new facilities on the footprint of the Structural Wood Corporation business, which currently occupies the site and plans to close its operations. The nearby wetlands and forested areas of the property will be unaffected by the new plans for the site, and a billboard on the property overlooking I-35E will also remain in place. Councilmembers asked about environmental concerns such as potential soil contamination from fuel storage, and the possibility of sustainable reuse of wash water. Schmitty & Sons Chief Operating Officer Bill Forbord answered the council’s questions, stating that fuel storage is highly regulated and that the company is willing to look into water reuse possibilities. He also shared that Schmitty & Sons has been in business for 85 years and has been employee-owned for the last 12 years. The business has recently been expanding across the Twin Cities metro. “We found this site; it’s our

kind of a place,” Forbord said. “It’s a good fit for us.” • Vadnais Heights residents can enjoy a bit more shade in the coming years thanks to the Metropolitan Council tree planting grant program. The city received $220,196, some of which has already gone toward the removal of diseased ash trees. The city council awarded a tree planting contract to the Davey Tree Expert Company for $57,231. This bid came in $21,000 below the estimated cost, and the city will explore more ways to expand the benefits of this grant in the community. “Planting more trees is option number one,” said Public Works Director Jim Hauth. “If we can get more trees, that would be great.” • The city also accepted bids and awarded a contract for a sanitary sewer lining project to Insituform Technologies USA, LLC in the amount of $189,291.91. The city improves selected areas of sanitary sewer pipes annually using this method, in which a pliable pipe liner is inserted into an existing pipe, and steam or hot is

used to cure it into a hardened state resembling PVC. This contract will cover 1,700 linear feet of 15-inch pipe, and comes in under the engineer’s estimate for the project. Hauth stated that excess funds may be used to repair manholes. He also noted that in a separate matter, a water main liner in the cit recently collapsed and will likely be replaced with a new liner. A collapse of this kind is an uncommon occurrence, he stated. • Administrator Kevin Watson shared that the city received at least 31 applications for positions on the fire station advisory panel by the Sept. 1 deadline. This panel will meet regularly to discuss current fire department operations, review the condition of current buildings and possibilities for improvements, and conclude with a final discussion before the city decides how to move forward. Jackie Bussjaeger

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (CONTINUED) banker, this seriously threatens many of our fixed-income senior community members who pay high HOA fees, along with many young people who don’t have any hope of owning a home. This caused such an outcry that community leaders canvassed the area seeking legal petitions under Minnesota state law to move to a citywide vote. Signatures totaling 5% of the voter rolls were needed, approximately 420 votes, and over 1,900 were collected. The council rescinded the action rather than going to the city’s voters. This was largely confirmed because in three council hearings many local fireman, including a retired fire chief, strongly questioned any need for a new fire station and unnecessarily duplicated facilities and services, not to mention a private parking garage for the existing chief. Now $6000/month is being spent on a public relations firm to convince us it is needed. A decision that big should be left to the tax payers. Compounded tax increases despite exorbitant cost of living stressors that force our fixed income neighbors to flee the city is irresponsible at best. Bob Morse Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER Slow train coming There’s a slow train coming and better get on board. “You’re going to have to serve somebody; Well, it may be the devil or it may be the Lord” (“Gotta Serve Somebody” by Bob Dylan.) Just making the assertion that we need to understand who we’re voting for what their values are: Heather Gustafson: She helped pass a full-term abortion act where fullterm baby can be aborted. If you don't have a problem with that, vote for her. Heidi Heino: “All humans have value because they bear God’s image, The unborn are human beings therefore they are worthy of

protection.” Is this your belief, then vote for her. Please vote your conscience and choose your path carefully, but remember there's a slow train coming. Carol Berg White Bear Lake

PAID LETTER Candidate works to change health care

When you look at the current financial realities regarding private health insurance and the everincreasing premiums and deductibles and number of people who can no longer afford health insurance, I simply cannot understand why anyone would be against reforming this unsustainable model. Nationwide, financial analysts report that we are all paying far more in health insurance premiums that we all would pay in taxes to provide everyone with Universal Health Care. Health insurance premiums are one of the largest items in a household budget. As a parent of four, Senator Heather Gustafson can totally relate to current estimates that show the average family of four today pays between $1600-$2400/month or $19,200-$28,800/ year in premiums that come with a high deductible and less coverage. This is an unsustainable situation for many families and puts them just one step away from a financial disaster. The private health insurance model does NOT contain costs for its customers; it does NOT expand coverage for its customers or speed up care. In fact, it makes all these factors worse. It appears the sole function is to make a profit for its shareholders. It was just reported that Minneapolis based United Health Group reported 2nd quarter 2026 profits of almost $5.5B, through pricing discipline and exiting unprofitable markets. Basically, dropping unhealthy customers and charging more.

In my opinion as a registered nurse, the only viable solution for health care is a single payer system, or “Medicare for all.” Senator Gustafson wants to reduce the influence of insurance companies, and next session plans to draft legislation for a more sustainable health care model that benefits providers and patients. One priority for her is to eliminate the need for prior authorizations by your insurance company for services. Health care should be between you and your medical provider. We must start somewhere with new policies that make a difference. My family will be casting our votes for our incumbent state senator, Heather Gustafson. She deserves another term to lead the effort to make changes to the health care model. Colleen O'Brien Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER Candidate supports clean electricity

As co-leader of Northeast Metro Climate Action, I support State Representative Brion Curran’s dedication to helping Minnesota do its part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Rep. Curran served on the Sustainable Infrastructure Committee, supported the 100% Clean Electricity bill and is endorsed by the Sierra Club, Conservation Minnesota, Northeast Metro Climate Action, and other environmental groups. Brion’s Republican opponent in the race for SD 36B House seat is Patty Bradway, who in her campaign kickoff speech in 2024, dismissed the need for curbing carbon emissions claiming farmers would benefit from more carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. I

am sure farmers are not appreciating the widespread deep droughts we are experiencing that have been made more likely and more severe as a result of our warming climate. Ms. Bradway claimed Rep. Curran wants to push an environmental extremist agenda on us referring to the carbonfree electricity standard passed in 2023. Wind and solar are the cheapest form of electricity today, and we need to accelerate the transition that our utilities are slow to embrace. For example, Texas is now the nation’s leader in both wind and solar installed capacity. Last I checked, their state government was not run by “environmental extremists”. Incentivizing our utilities to transition to clean energy is good for Minnesota’s rate payers and our environment. If you care about our environment and the world we leave to our children and grandchildren, vote to re-elect Representative Brion Curran. Steven Jorissen Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER Candidates support Green Team

Vadnais Heights has the only Native Plant Food Forest in the state. This is the result of a partnership with the city and the Vadnais Heights Green Team. The Food Forest had its grand opening on Aug. 15 during Vadnais Days and was warmly received by the community. The Food Forest is open to the community with the goal of providing food to residents while at the same time encouraging community members to learn about healthy landscaping practices for their own yards. SEE LETTERS, PAGE 11

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (CONTINUED) The Food Forest is just one example of the types of projects the Green Team works on. The team was established about 3 years ago and consists of all volunteers. The team has engaged with the community on numerous other sustainability events such as clothing swaps held at local Big Wood Brewery, Adopt a Drain and cleanup events to improve water quality in our city, composting at numerous large events (such as the Lions waffle breakfasts) to help the promoters operate waste free events. These events and community engagements would not have been possible without the support of the current Vadnais Heights City Council members who are running again for re-election: Mike Krachmer for Mayor, and Katherine Doll Kanne and Kelly Jozwowski for council. I urge you to vote to reelect them this fall. They voted to have

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D I R E C T O R Y

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Help Wanted Looking for a person who is not afraid of the telephone. If you are friendly by nature and have no problem talking to people, I am looking for someone to work in our classified department. Must have basic computer skills and likes to work in a friendly atmosphere. Please call Press Publications at 651/407*1213 Looking For Student To Help With Yard Work At WHITE BEAR COUNTRY INN Call Bill 651/429*5393 Rudy's Redeye Grill is HIRING a Front Desk Agent 7a-3p & 3p-11p Part-Time Please Call Jacqlyn 651/272*3783 or send resume to Jschoen@whitebearcountryinn.com

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Rentals/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

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

14A WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

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OBITUARIES

Robert William Alexander Jr.

Brian L. Johnson

Shirley Ann Lefevre

Age 87 of White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Passed away peacefully September 4, 2026 after a stroke. He was survived by his High School sweetheart, wife of 67 years Joyce Alexander and beloved children Sue Faust (Dan Gorowsky) and Paul (Mary) Alexander; grandchildren Josh and Zach Faust, Drew Alexander and Leah (Mitch) Brown; great grandchildren Caden and Isla Brown; brothers Jim Alexander and Richard (Nancy) Alexander; many nieces, nephews, cousins and many good friends. Bob grew up in Saint Paul, graduated from Murray High School, class of ‘56 and graduated from the University of Minnesota with his bachelor’s degree. Worked at Sperry/Univac for his whole working career. Bob and Joyce loved spending time at their lake home on Ossawinnamakee Lake and their many weeks of travel to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 AM, Thursday, September 17 at HONSA FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 2460 East County Road E, White Bear Lake, with a Visitation from 10-11AM. Burial will be at 1:45pm at Roselawn Cemetery in Roseville. In lieu of flowers please make donations in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, 651-429-6172

Passed away on August 22. 2026 at the age of 87. He was surrounded by his loved ones in the days leading up to his passing. Born in Blackduck, Minnesota on July 06, 1939, Brian was the only son of Clarence and Linda (Hanson) Johnson. He was a proud alum of St. Olaf College and attended law school at the University of Minnesota. He spent his career as a managing editor at West Publishing Co. He was the loving husband of Joanie (Peterson) Johnson, his wife of 51 years, whom he is now reunited with. He and his family loved spending time together at their lake home, where he would prove his incredible card game skills to his grandchildren. Other hobbies were playing bridge, gardening, fishing, and golf as well as attending the many sporting events of his children and grandchildren. A man of incredible generosity, wit, and faith, he will be forever missed and remembered by all whose lives he touched. Brian is survived by his four children, Kristin (Brian) Burge, Kari Johnson, Dave Johnson, and Joel Johnson, and his five grandchildren, Tyler, Caroline, and Zach Burge, and Ava and Jackson Johnson.

89, of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026. Preceded in death by parents, Ernest and Maria, and brother, Robert. Survived by brother, Russell (Carole); nephew Peter (Patrice); nieces, Mary and Kristen (Keith); and great nephews and nieces; Maura, Sean, Delilah, Marlo, Calvin, and Zachary. Shirley was born in Grafton, ND. Valedictorian of her high school class, she graduated with honors from Valley City Teacher’s College in ND and taught at the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. She later earned her Bachelor’s in Education from the University of North Dakota and taught at Lakeaires School in White Bear Lake for 30 years. Growing up, she played the clarinet in the well-known Grafton Parade Band, performing at the Orange Bowl in Miami and at Mardi Gras in New Orleans. She continued her love of music with the St. Mary of the Lake bell choir and chorus. Shirley stayed active with her friends and family throughout her life and in retirement; she enjoyed spending time with book clubs, attending lectures, and taking local trips. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Friday, October 2, 2026 at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Interment in Grafton, ND at a later date.

Pete W. Manship Pete Manship, age 71, of Dresser, Wi passed away at home with family by his side on August 30th, 2026. Pete was born to Paul and Margaret Manship of Mahtomedi, MN. He married the love of his life, Barb, and was blessed with three children: Matt (Heather), Patrick (Cathy), Kelly (Gerry) and 7 grandchildren. Pete cherished his family and enjoyed hunting, fishing and being in God’s creation. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to New Life Christian Community (Dresser, Wi) https:// newlifechristiancommunity.org/give or Minnesota conservation volunteer magazine: https://www. cambeywest.com/subscribe2/?p=MCV&f=gift A celebration of life will be held at 3:00pm, Sunday, September 27th at New Life Christian Community in Dresser, Wisconsin. Arrangements are with the Grandstrand Funeral Home, Osceola, Wisconsin. Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com.

Phyllis “Pat” Syverson

Marian Yvonne Meier

(Patrick) (Nixa)

Age 93, of Stillwater, passed away peacefully on August 17. Born in Hinckley, MN to Ruth and Frank Patrick (a Hinckley fire survivor). Preceded in death by son Jack Nixa, husbands Clayton Syverson and George Nixa, and sisters Mary and Ann. Survived by daughter Diane Nixa (Kurt Hochfeld), son Dan Nixa (Pam), grandson Alex Nixa (Kate), stepchildren Mark, Mary, and Diane, and five nieces and nephews. Pat’s passion for interior decorating and early American antiques led to years of collecting, refinishing, and selling in Stillwater and at the Buffalo Nickel and Green Acres in Lake Elmo. Friends and family are invited to a memorial reception for both Pat and Jack on Thursday, October 1 at 10:00am at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd. in Stillwater. Memorials may be directed to Twin Cities PBS or St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Submitting Public Notices Including Foreclosures, Certificates of Assumed Name, Liens, Probates and all other Public Notice Requirements Deadlines:

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Age 99 of White Bear Lake, went to be with her Lord on Friday, September 4. Preceded in death by husband, Waldo, parents, Bruce and Esther Hammitt, and three sisters, Elizabeth, Louise and Fae. Survived by children; Kerry, Barbara Fricano (Alfred) and Wayne (Marlene), 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Celebration of Life will be held on September 26, 2026 at South Shore Lutheran Church in White Bear Lake at 11:00 AM. Visitation at 10:00 AM.

Contact: Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn E-Mail: Legals@presspubs.com Call: 651-407-1200

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Age 74, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on September 4, 2026. He will be remembered for his big, contagious laugh and the presence he brought wherever he went. We like to think there was a band waiting for him in Heaven, ready for him to jump in, with his son, Tony, there to welcome him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 A celebration of Steve’s life will be held Thursday, September 24, at Maranatha Assembly of God in Forest Lake, Minnesota. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. and a luncheon at 1:00 p.m.

865563

Steven Ross Houle

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

www.presspubs.com

Bears pummel Coon Rapids for 2-0 start

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

Zephyrs thump Highland after close loss in Mankato

BY BRUCE STRAND, SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake is 2-0 after defeating Coon Rapids 28-7 at home Friday evening, rolling up 234 yards rushing and 151 passing with no turnovers for the second straight week. “We've done a good job taking care of the football and playing complementary football,” coach Ryan Bartlett said. “Our kids have played with energy and have played hard.” Brian White III bulled for 150 yards and two touchdowns in 22 carries. Biran White caught six passes for 92 yards from Wyatt Stachowiak. Hank Stuemke added 87 yards in 12 totes. Stachowiak was 10for-20 for 151 yards. Antonio

Mahtomedi got pinpoint passing from Trevor Rogosheske, and an equal amount of rushing yards, in defeating St. Paul Highland Park 33-14 at home Thursday. The Zephyrs opened with a 31-28 loss at Mankato West. Against Highland, Rogosheske completed 10 of 13 for 191 yards, with an eight-yard touchdown toss to Jacob Sokoll. Jaxon Mitchell gained 100 yards on six catches. Gavin Bifulk gained 83 on three catches while kicking a 33-yard field goal and four extra points. The Zephyrs rolled up 198 yards on the ground, led by Isaac Opitz with 63 in nine carries with a one-yard

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Brian White III slips a tackle on the way to a 150-yard game against Coon Rapids.

Brown caught four for 59 yards. Also scoring on runs were Stachowiak and RJ Stuckey. A stout defensive effort was sparked by Gavin Reich with three tackles for loss totaling

12 yards. Also logging tackles for loss were Brayton Minor (seven yards), Croix Erickson, William McQuay and Alex Brown.

touchdown. Will Seevers had 29 yards in seven carries with touchdowns from ten and one yard. Against Mankato West, Mahtomedi trailed 17-7, rallied for a 28-24 lead, then lost by inches in the closing seconds. West quarterback Osborne Lorenz drove the Scarlets 80 yards. He barged for a first down by inches on fourth and four, and scored from the one the next play with 30 seconds left. Lorenz ran for four touchdowns and passed for 251 yards. Rogosheske was 7-for14 for 233 yards. Mitchell caught three for 147 yards and touchdowns of 34 and 79 yards. Bifulk caught three for 80 yards and a 20-yard score.

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS Bears boys soccer enjoys strong start

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Parker Anderl drilled the game’s lone goal against Mounds View past the goalie and a defender.

White Bear Lake has a 3-1-1 record, triple the wins they had all last season, after edging Mounds View 1-0 there Thursday. Parker Anderl, with a defender and the goalie right in front of him, grounded the ball past them for the lone

goal with nine minutes left. The Bears held the Mustangs to two shots on goal. After losing to Centennial 1-0 in their opener, the Bears tied Hill-Murray 1-1, then beat Coon Rapids 2-1, St. Paul Central 10-0 and Mounds View. Mason Voeller has three goals, and Michael Haselman, Gralin Carter, and Diego Rios two each. The defensive crew that has allowed

just three goals includes goalie Logan Metzger (19-for-21 saves), Nate Lor and Owen Schachtner in the back, and Weston Young and Logan Docken in the center, with Hector Cendejas rotating in. Bruce Strand

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS SWIMMING & DIVING Mahtomedi, ranked No. 4 in Class A, beat North/Tartan 102-70, winning all events except diving. At the Blaine Invitational, the Zephyrs were second behind Mounds View (379 to 333) among ten teams. Abigail Wright was second in 200 freestyle, Aria Armstrong second in the medley, Armstrong second in butterfly with Ruby Roitsch third, Adalyn Miller third in 50 free with Delaney Dumermuth seventh and Claire Lane ninth, Miller third in 100 free with Wright fifth and Lane eighth, and Riley Parizek fourth in backstroke with Rory Juhl eighth. The 400 free relay won in 3:44.03 with Armstrong, Dumermuth, Miller and Wright, and the 200 free relay was

second in 1:42.68 with Lane, Mlller, Dumermuth and Wright. Those relay times are fastest in the state for Class A.

TENNIS Mahtomedi is 6-1 after rolling past Tartan 7-0, Roseville Area 6-1 and White Bear Lake 5-2. The doubles corps won eight of nine matches, led by Brooke Berg/Ellie Driscoll at No. 1 going 3-0. Also 3-0 were Liza Moffitt and Molly Driscoll in singles. The Zephyrs won 84 of 91 games against Tartan.

BOYS SOCCER Mahtomedi is 2-3 after beating Chanhassen 2-0, following losses

SUNRISE/SUNSET SEPTEMBER 16-22, 2026

6:54 7:20

6:55 7:18

6:56 7:16

6:57 7:14

6:58 7:12

7:00 7:10

Weather Tidbits Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

Frank Watson

I missed last week’s early deadline as those Monday holidays always seem to get me. What we missed was our first significant rain on Sept 3 when I totaled 0.78”. Areas north of me totaled slightly more and areas south, less. I experienced pea-sized hail as the storm passed. An early morning storm passed on Sept. 8th, adding another 0.25” to the month’s total. As I write this on Monday morning, showers are expected. Many times early morning showers to our west die out before reaching the Metro. Overall it was a wonderful weekend. The week ahead calls for temperatures running warmer than normal with a few opportunities for showers. Fall begins on Tuesday, September 20 at 7:05pm. How is your garden harvest coming? Weather calendar note: I’m looking for pictures for my 2027 weather calendar. Email me at watsonwx@ aol.com. Thanks to White Bear Lake Realty for sponsoring Weather Tidbits!

WEEKLY AVERAGES HIGH LOW SUN PCP

65° 46° 61% 0.67”

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

Sponsored by

James Sanchez White Bear Lake Realty

Stella Bossert four blocks.

CROSS COUNTRY

GIRLS SOCCER The defending state champion Zephyrs have started the season 0-3-1 with a 1-1 tie against Rochester Century (2-2-2) and losses of 3-1 to Byron (5-0), 2-0 to White Bear Lake (3-2) and 3-1 to Woodbury (3-3).

VOLLEYBALL Mahtomedi (1-3) lost to the Bears. The scores were 25-19, 22-25, 25-23, 23-25, 15-9. Makenna Korus had 28 digs, Nora Bonifas 10 kills and three blocks, Natalie Moran nine kills and

The Mahtomedi girls were sixth of nine teams and the boys 10th of 11 teams in the Monticello Invitational. Placing in the top half for the girls were Giada Garrity in 12th, Quinn Griffith 18th, Lily Peck 28th and Evie Krueger 32nd, and for the boys Mason Mahmood 26th and Nolan Dock 38th. In the Rosemount meet, the boys placed 19th of 22 teams and the girls 13th of 16 teams. Parker Maas placed ninth. Garrity was 27th and Griffith 67th. Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Brian White III

Weekly Outlook 6:53 7:22

to Cretin-Derham Hall 4-0 and St. Thomas Academy 2-0.

4790 Banning Avenue • Downtown White Bear Lake 651-653-7326 • www.wblrealty.com

White Bear Lake Football September 16, 2026

Brian White, III has led White Bear Lake football to a 2-0 start with two huge games rushing. White amassed for 211 yards and three touchdowns against Park and followed up with 150 yards and two scores against Coon Rapids. The 5-foot-10, 185-pound senior is averaging 9.5 yards with a long of 62. “Brian is a really powerful and explosive kid. He is able to make the first tackler miss consistently and never stops moving his legs,” coach Ryan Bartlett observed.

16A WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

www.presspubs.com

Artemis and Apollo are reunited! Artemis has returned to White Bear Lake, after exploring neighboring lakes. Apollo could not be happier and the two picked up where they left off, in late July. Artemis may have brought a third chick along with her.

REUNITED

Artemis has returned! We last spotted Artemis in late July, shortly after both chicks started flying. Apollo, who was “adopted” by a few visiting Loons from up north, has spent most of his time fishing and diving with the “grandparent” Loons, on the west side of the Peninisula. We assumed that Artemis was exploring on her own and spending time with other visiting Loons, somewhere on the lake. No matter how hard we looked, we could never find her. Several readers and friends tried to find Artemis, while Len and I were on our annual 5,000-mile road trip. No luck. I feared that she may have been taken by an Eagle or other predator. Len, always the optimist, believed that Artemis

September 4-13, 2026

Loon Chronicles XI: Reunited

ELLEN MAAS | CONTRIBUTED

was checking out neighboring lakes, and would return on her own schedule. We are happy to report that Len was right! On Thursday morning, at the crack of dawn, we spotted Artemis and Apollo with a third chick, about the same size, circling, diving, and calling to each other. Their mood was playful and energetic. After several minutes, Apollo emerged from a deep dive and got up on both feet and launched into a Penguin dance, while yodeling at the third chick. In response, Artemis started wingrowing to lead the third chick away from Apollo. Eventually, the third chick flew to the other side of the lake, while Apollo and Artemis found their way back to each other and resumed fishing

together. What a team! Their parents taught them well. Visiting adult Loons, in various stages of molt, continue to drop in and fish, but are not staying long. The excessive weed growth, heat, and compromised lake level may be a contributing factor. The chicks, who are almost four months old, continue to thrive and have really mastered their flying skills. Hopefully, Artemis will choose to chill with Apollo, here, on White Bear Lake. We will keep you posted.

Ellen Maas

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 33A (ELECT 1)

Angela Thompson (DFL) City of residence: Hugo Occupation: Social worker / ICWA

guardian ad litem

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Liaison to the WBLAS American Indian Parent Advisory Committee • Vice chair White Bear Lake School Board • Director, Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District School Board

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I am running to bring the voices of District 33A to the table.

My roots in these communities run deep. I grew up here, attended the same schools as generations of my family, raised my own family here, and have family and lifelong friends throughout the district. These aren't simply communities I represent; they are the communities that shaped me. I believe representative government begins with listening. We do not live in politics; politics exists to represent us. I want the people of District 33A to be able to build safe, stable, and affordable lives, with access to healthcare and housing, family-

Stacey Stout (R)

City of residence: Mahtomedi Occupation: AVP government relations List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Mahtomedi School Board ISD 832 20162026, four years as chair • Northeast Metro School Board ISD 916 2025-2026 • Mahtomedi Finance Commission 20152018

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. As a mom of 2 boys who are 4th generation Minnesotans, an

attorney with over 25 years of experience, and a Mahtomedi school board member for 10 years, I understand the importance of public service and the challenges facing our communities.

sustaining wages, retirement security, strong public schools, and pathways to successful careers. As a social worker and school board member, I listen to those most affected, seek expertise, examine evidence, ask difficult questions, and make informed decisions. I will bring that same approach to representing District 33A in the Legislature

Minnesota has tremendous resources and a strong workforce. Good planning today can create opportunities while keeping our communities affordable for the next generation.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesota prospers when the people who live and work here

sustainably funding the services our communities depend on. Families are feeling the rising costs of housing, healthcare, childcare, insurance, property taxes and everyday necessities. There is no single solution. We need to increase affordable housing options, address healthcare and prescription drug costs, expand access to childcare, support family-sustaining wages, and examine how state decisions affect household budgets. As a school board member, I have seen what happens when the state does not fully fund its commitments: the pressure often shifts to local taxpayers. We need to adequately fund education, infrastructure and essential services while being responsible stewards of public dollars. If elected, I will examine what is working, address waste and fraud, listen to the people most affected, and work with legislators from across Minnesota on practical, sustainable solutions rather than simply shifting costs from one level of government to another.

I've built a proven record of accountable, transparent leadership and delivering results. I will be a principled voice at the Capitol, finding practical solutions for fraud prevention, lowering taxes, ensuring high-quality education in our schools, addressing healthcare costs, supporting public safety, and investing in the infrastructure our communities depend on.

help keep businesses here, expand opportunity, and grow wages for Minnesota families.

have opportunities to succeed. Over the next five years, we need to invest in strong public schools, workforce development and skilled trades, infrastructure, affordable housing and childcare, while supporting the small businesses that are important to our communities. We also need to pay attention to affordability and the long-term impact of state decisions. When the state does not adequately fund its responsibilities, those costs do not disappear; they can be shifted to local governments, school districts, property taxpayers and families. We should use public dollars responsibly, measure whether programs are working, address fraud when it occurs, and invest in roads, bridges and infrastructure that support economic growth and familysustaining jobs.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesota’s economic growth is stagnating because our state

has become increasingly uncompetitive and has been plagued by widespread fraud and inadequate oversight. To turn this around, the legislature must restore accountability, crack down on fraud, and create a more competitive environment where businesses of all sizes can grow, innovate, and hire—because a stronger private sector means more opportunity and greater prosperity for everyone. Strengthening our competitiveness will

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Two challenges facing Minnesota are affordability and

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. 1. Fiscal discipline – Minnesota had an historic $18 billion

surplus, but that has been spent. Instead of using the surplus to provide meaningful, lasting tax relief and strengthen our longterm fiscal position, the government grew significantly without prioritizing core government functions. 2. Fraud – Minnesota has a serious fraud and accountability problem. The billions of dollars lost through major fraud scandals have exposed significant weaknesses in the state’s government oversight and financial controls. There should be meaningful consequences for fraud and there needs to be a system that follows through on preventing fraud to begin with.

MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 36A (ELECT 1)

Jim DeMay (DFL)

City of residence: North Oaks Occupation: Recently retired, former public affairs director — CSL Seqirus, former adjunct professor at Hamline University in Public Administration

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Mounds View School Board, Treasurer, 2019-present • Shoreview Rotary Club • St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, past Board Chair

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I believe the government needs to provide the right

opportunities to keep Minnesota a great place to live, work and, most importantly, raise a family. I am running for state house to make that a reality for all Minnesotans. When I grew up, it was possible for the kid of a waitress and

Sebastian Stoss (R)

City of residence: Circle Pines Occupation: Photographer/Videographer List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Legislative aide at Minnesota Senate • Citizen investigator • Congressional staff member

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I want to serve as our next state representative because

politics as usual has failed our state. We have seen unprecedented levels of fraud, affordability has gotten worse and Minnesota student grades keep falling. I have demonstrated action. Just look at my investigation into Ramsey County's property tax spending uncovering how over $38 million went out the back door to unaudited outside nonprofits and NGOs. I didn't sit on the sidelines; I followed the money, demanded

a small businessman to enjoy the middle class dream, but those opportunities just aren’t there for people in the same way. I was able to succeed because of a great public education at Mounds View Schools, and I’m proud that my wife and I are now parents to two MVHS graduates. I will fight to fully fund public education around the state, and you can count on me to fight for affordable health care and child care for working people like you.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesota needs to invest in and create opportunities for

workers in order for our economy to thrive. This includes creating career pathways for the trades and medical industry in high school. Additionally, community college and trade schools must be accessible to all at a low cost. Finally, we need to lower the cost of and make child care more accessible so parents can participate in the workforce while knowing their kids are safe.

answers and got results. The county commissioners backed off and lowered this year's property tax increase by 15%. That's what I've done as a private citizen — now I would like to continue this work as state representative.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. At the state level, we can eliminate fraud, impose more

oversight and provide tax relief. We need mandatory background checks and more required financial audits to both stop fraud that has already occurred and prevent further fraud from happening. Additionally, I support expanding whistleblower rewards to 10–20% of recovered funds with protections from retaliation. These are just a handful of initial solutions that can help prevent fraud. With the money we save once this is done, we can afford to provide tax relief to all Minnesotans. Specifically, we will be able to afford to lower the currently out-of-control property taxes, income taxes and car tab fees.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Going to the doctor shouldn’t break the bank. But for too

many Minnesotans, skyrocketing costs are making them choose between health care and other essential expenses. If elected, I will push to fund tax credits to reduce premiums for Minnesotans and eliminate anti-competitive practices of PhRMA to lower the price of prescription drugs. I will also work to create pathways for “Medicare for All” for those without insurance through their employers, as well as promote preventive services and regular vaccinations and check-ups to reduce overall costs. Separately, I will support fully funding the newly created Minnesota Office of Inspector General that creates an independent oversight body to stop waste, fraud and abuse. I will work to protect taxpayer dollars by promoting efficiency reviews and regular audits. I will also work to modernize state computer systems to catch fraud, promote efficiency and increase accountability measures for nonprofits.

Q, What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. The biggest challenge facing Minnesota currently

is fraud. Fraud in Minnesota has become a national embarrassment. Fraudsters have been able to steal from Minnesotans for years without any pushback from our government. This should anger every Minnesota taxpayer. To stop fraud, we need to increase oversight and transparency. For instance, counties are not currently legally required to audit organizations they give money to. This makes it easy for bad actors to get funding and misspend it. The second challenge facing Minnesota is how unaffordable living has become, especially due to out-of-control taxes. Property taxes in particular burden homeowners and prospective homeowners. People tell me they are getting priced out of their own homes and neighborhoods. To lower the tax burden and make Minnesota more affordable, we need private third-party assessors determining property valuations to ensure fairness, and we need to cap annual property taxes raises.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 36B (ELECT 1)

Brion Curran (DFL)

City of residence: White Bear Lake Occupation: Former human services and public safety professional

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• State Representative for Minnesota House District 36B • Board member at Northeast Youth & Family Services • Member of White Bear Lake American Legion Auxiliary

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. Serving District 36B is an honor. Before I ran for office, I

wished there were more “real people just doing what’s right” politicians. I came into this fight for you in 2022 ready to make waves in how the government functions. With your trust and my full commitment, I’ve delivered on that promise. Your State Representative has one job: stand up for your needs and rights. You put me at the table to challenge systems that haven’t worked, make them better, or scrap them and start over. Over

Patty Bradway (R)

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Registered nurse - BSN List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Primary election judge • Caucus coordinator • Candidate for Minnesota House

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I never expected to run for office. I became a candidate in

2024 because state leadership mismanaged Minnesota’s $18 billion surplus then approved $10 billion in new taxes and fees which put a financial strain on the families and businesses in our community. Also, the Feeding our Future Fraud scheme – about $250 million of federal funds – further exposed a lack of oversight and accountability within Minnesota’s leadership. Now in 2026 fraud has been discovered in just about every

jobs with living wages, and provide relief where it's due: to the average family doing their best to thrive.

the last four years I’ve become a top negotiator to be reckoned with across political lines and issues, always putting people first. I’m dedicated to navigating a complicated, ugly, and sometimes dangerous system for the purpose of making it better. This is why I serve. I’m running to continue fighting for what’s right, for all of us, from the inside.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Minnesota was victimized by fraudsters. The scams are

abhorrent. I tackle this challenge head-on with deep criticism for politicians past and present. The administration led by Governor Walz fumbled under political scrutiny on this issue, losing sight of real-world outcomes. Despite my direct warnings, funding was hastily cut from people who had done no wrong, putting vulnerable people in jeopardy of going homeless or neglected, and care workers out of a paycheck. When Minnesota prosecuted fraud, the federal government further attacked our funding and our constitutional rights. Minnesota is now challenged to combat massive federal cuts to healthcare as a result of politically-driven choices that harm us all. In 20 years of human services, I spent a decade managing governmentfunded disability billing with an impeccable audit record. I know how these systems function, where technology can be improved, and have a deep understanding of how state regulations impact service delivery.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Everyday Minnesotans face real problems affording a home,

groceries, childcare, healthcare, and crushing gas prices. The federal government’s corporate greed and astounding disrespect for our rights have far exceeded any level of morality we’ve seen in this country. This is not the path to prosperity. It is devastating Minnesota families. Building our brighter future together means demanding government transparency, cutting strings that allow billionaires to puppeteer our democracy and ruin the environment, and putting power back in the people’s hands. We must focus on investing in Minnesotans, root out corporate greed and fraud, and stop the divisive, unproductive narrative that differences are dangerous. In the next five years, Minnesota has the opportunity to make the ultra wealthy finally pay their fair share, cancel hidden corporate tax breaks, ensure

government program. I’m running to demand oversite, restore accountability, and protect taxpayers’ hard-earned money. I’ll do this by bringing common sense, sound judgement and critical thinking to the Minnesota Legislature.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Affordability: Minnesotan’s taxes are too high, and statewide

fraud has placed an extra burden on our taxpayers. We are paying more for car tabs, fishing licenses, health insurance, property taxes and more. I will work to cut taxes, reduce spending and eliminate waste to bring relief to families, homeowners and businesses. Public Schools: We have a crisis in our public school system. The amount of money per student keeps increasing while academic outcomes are flatlining. Our students are graduating at high rates yet less than half can read, do math, and understand science at grade level. Reading is the number one concern. The Republican legislation focusing on the Science of Reading is helping to improve student learning outcomes. Our children’s future success in society depends on our public schools. Without the skills to read and comprehend what is written, all other subjects will be foreign to them.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesota prospers when her people prosper. Minnesota

needs strong new leadership, less government, and legislators willing to cut taxes across the board. It will not take 5 years to help Minnesota prosper if we follow this plan. We must reduce the corporate income tax rate to entice businesses, the job creators, to expand in our state. Personal income taxes and fees need to be reduced so people can bank more of their earned money. We must implement spending cuts on non-essential programs and reduce burdensome regulations in the housing industry. Minnesotans will prosper when they have good job opportunities, can keep more of the income they earn, and afford the home of their choice, resulting in lasting financial security.

MINNESOTA HOUSE DISTRICT 41A (ELECT 1)

Cole Birkeland (DFL)

City of residence: Lake Elmo Occupation: Attorney List three most recent civic involvement roles: I have represented numerous local governments as a city attorney, serve as the director of community service for the Lake Elmo Rotary Club, and give guest lectures to students about the Constitution.

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. Divisive politics failed us and people are hungry for change.

Extremist politicians have spent too much time fighting culture wars while the rest of us got stuck with the rising costs of housing, healthcare, fraud, and pollution. Now is our chance to fix it. I'm running for the Minnesota House because I love people and want to make life better for them. As an attorney, I protect

Wayne Johnson (R)

City of residence: Cottage Grove Occupation: Business owner List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Minnesota House Rep • Washington County Commissioner • Cottage Grove City Council Member

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. After a successful first term, I want to continue serving and

keep Minnesota moving forward. There are plans to reverse our progress, increase unfunded mandates on counties and schools, and raise taxes at all levels. These policies would create greater

people's civil rights and hard-earned retirement savings through the legal system. If elected, I'll protect people's rights and their livelihoods as a legislator. My goal is to build bridges that deliver common-sense results and improve the quality of life for people in my district and across Minnesota.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. We can help Minnesota prosper by making housing and

energy more affordable. Because everyone needs them, the entire economy suffers when homes and energy are too expensive. When those costs are too high, there is lower economic growth, a leaner state budget, and Minnesotans having to spend more of their hard-earned paychecks on basic necessities. In order to fix this problem, we can reduce the tax burden on homeownership, build more homes in locations that don’t disrupt the character of the local community, and make energy cheaper by utilizing solar panels that harness the abundant energy of the sun. The state has the tools it needs to make these necessary investments, and to slash the red tape challenges for homeowners, parents, students, and families already working hard to pay the bills and build a secure future. I want to prevent that from happening. I will continue working for responsible solutions that improve affordability, strengthen our communities, and move Minnesota forward.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. The first step is to start listening to those who are invested

in our communities—business owners, local elected officials, schools, and residents. We need to stop developing policies without talking to the people they affect and start asking what they would like to see. Ideas and concerns come to legislators all the time, but we need to spend more time asking and listening instead of telling. Unfunded mandates need to stop and be reversed. Taxing businesses and individuals to the point where

that stands in the way of making them. We should do both while ensuring that we preserve local communities’ control over their own future.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Two important challenges our state faces are the coming

structural deficit in the state budget and the rising cost of healthcare. The impending structural deficit is worsened by the fact that Minnesota is losing young people to other states due to the excessive cost of living. This leads to an aging in-state population, a smaller tax base, but more spending growth. I will push to lower the cost of living so that Minnesota is an attractive choice for young working people to raise their families and prosper. The recent cuts to federal health services such as CHIP and Medicaid will have the effect of increasing healthcare costs for everyone in Minnesota. If elected, I will champion bills that address the cost of care without this federal funding. I will also push for more transparency in medical billing and regulate unnecessary middlemen that drive up health insurance costs. they cannot maintain financial reserves is not sustainable.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. The first challenge is finding where the money is going.

We created the OIG, and that is a start. We need to use the information it provides to make changes and hold people accountable, including department heads and employees. The second challenge is reducing mandates on businesses, schools, and counties. These mandates drain money that could be used to help businesses thrive, strengthen communities and schools, and improve affordability. There is too much money being shifted around. Finding where the money is going and stopping unnecessary spending will lead to a better future for all Minnesotans.

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4B WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 MINNESOTA SENATE DISTRICT 33 (ELECT 1)

Karin Housley (R) City of residence: Stillwater Occupation: Real estate agent List three most recent civic involvement roles:

e • Serving as board chair of the Mississippi cism River Parkway Coalition and as a member y of the Great Lakes Commission, where I sue, rnings, actively protect and preserve our state's precious waterways. ng, • Co-founder of Greater Stillwater Power or nesota of 100 Women, raising over $100,000 for local charities in three years. d • Republican lead on the Capital Investment Committee, ow securing critical state funding for local infrastructure, roads, sa years bridges, and clean drinking water across our district, including White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi, Dellwood and Willernie. ntI know proved, mpact

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Nat Smith (DFL)

City of residence: Stillwater Occupation: Attorney List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Washington County Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee • Stillwater Human Rights Commission • Community advocate for fraud prevention and whistleblower protections I’m a Stillwater resident, husband, father, and attorney who has spent my career fighting fraud and protecting whistleblowers. I grew up in Minnesota, attended the University of Minnesota and William Mitchell College of Law, and built my legal career around holding bad actors accountable. I serve on the Washington County Community Development Block Grant Citizen Advisory Committee and the Stillwater Human Rights Commission.

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I’m running because Minnesota needs an independent voice

who will focus on solving problems, making government work, and putting people ahead of politics.

es, could s and ney nd e for all

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. Serving in the Minnesota Legislature for the past 14 years has

been the honor of a lifetime. Every day, I am driven by a deep commitment to my neighbors and a passion for protecting the quality of life that makes our communities so special. My focus has always been rooted in common-sense solutions—advocating for families, supporting small businesses, and ensuring our government remains accountable and fiscally responsible. There is still important work ahead to build an even stronger future for the next generation, which is why I am running to continue serving.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. STOP THE FRAUD! We must stop the rampant fraud

plaguing state programs. Imagine what relief could have been given to Minnesotans had we not lost billions to fraud? Next, we must provide meaningful tax relief by eliminating state taxes on worker tips and overtime pay. Working Minnesotans deserve

As a whistleblower attorney, I’ve spent my career fighting fraud, holding powerful institutions accountable, and protecting the people who speak up when something is wrong. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when taxpayer dollars are misused. With billions of taxpayer dollars at stake, the Legislature needs members who understand how fraud happens, how to uncover it, and how to stop it. I will bring my expertise to the Legislature to protect taxpayer dollars, strengthen oversight, and restore trust in government, so we can focus on the issues families talk about every day: the cost of living, strong schools, affordable health care, and protecting the quality of life in our communities. I’m running to listen, work across differences and deliver results for the St. Croix River Valley.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesotans deserve leaders who will focus on making

our state a place where families can afford to live, businesses can grow, and communities like ours can thrive. That means controlling unnecessary government spending while protecting the services Minnesota families rely on. We should invest in excellent schools, a strong workforce, reliable infrastructure, and affordable childcare and health care. We also need to make it easier for small businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed

to keep more of what they earn to address workforce shortages. Finally, we must stop wasting taxpayer dollars, rein in excessive spending, and reduce regulatory burdens. By cracking down on fraud, easing the cost of living, and encouraging private-sector growth, we can ensure families and businesses thrive here.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Again, "Stop the fraud!" Billions of dollars of taxpayer

money! We do this by going over the state's budget with a fine-tooth comb, each agency and their programs. In addition, Minnesota also faces outmigration to our surrounding states, driven by high taxation and life being unaffordable. From property taxes to license tab fees. To protect taxpayer dollars and keep families and retirees in our state, we must crack down on fraud, unfunded mandates and stop taxing Social Security. Addressing these priorities requires rejecting reckless fiscal policies, lowering our overall tax burden and focusing on core government responsibilities.

by reducing unnecessary barriers and creating a predictable regulatory environment. We can continue to strengthen our economy, while also being strong environmental stewards. Finally, Minnesota must commit to taking fraud seriously. Every single dollar lost to fraud is a dollar that cannot be invested in schools, roads, public safety, or other priorities.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Two challenges stand out to me: affordability and trust in

government. Families like mine are feeling the pressure of higher costs for housing, health care, childcare, groceries, and just about everything else. We need to make Minnesota a place where families can afford to live, businesses can grow, seniors can thrive, and people have a real opportunity to get ahead. We also have to rebuild trust by making sure our government is accountable for every single taxpayer dollar. I’ve spent my career fighting fraud, and I know that accountability cannot be an afterthought. As a citizen, I’ve already worked to introduce a bill to help combat fraud. As your state senator, I would push for stronger auditing, better use of data to identify fraud, and stronger consequences when public dollars are misused. Minnesotans deserve to know their government is working for them—not wasting their money.

MINNESOTA SENATE DISTRICT 36 (ELECT 1)

Heather Gustafson (DFL) City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Minnesota State Senator,

District 36

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Chair, Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission • Vice chair, Senate Education Finance Committee • Vice chair, Senate State and Local Government Committee I have represented Senate District 36 since 2023. Before running for office, I spent many years as a high school teacher, following an earlier career in radio broadcasting. I hold a degree from Minnesota State University Moorhead and a Master of Education from the College of Saint Scholastica. I am the mother of four daughters. As a senator, I have focused on affordability, public safety and government accountability, building a strong record of bipartisan collaboration.

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Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I spent many years as a high school teacher, and as the

mother of four daughters, I saw the same pressures in my

classroom as I did at my kitchen table. I see what happens when families fall behind on rent, when a school budget gets stretched too thin, or when a kid shows up hungry because breakfast wasn't an option at home. Those aren't abstract policy problems to me. I ran for office because I wanted to bring that problemsolving mindset to the legislature: listen first, find the people willing to work across the aisle, and get something done instead of just talking about it. That's how I passed the school meals program and created Minnesota's first independent watchdog for government fraud, with Republican co-authors. I want to keep doing that work so families can thrive, not just survive.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesota prospers when people trust that resources are

being used honestly and families can actually get ahead, not just get by. That starts with practical, bipartisan solutions to tackle the cost of living directly, from housing to child care to health care, so working families in our district aren't doing the math every time they're at the grocery store. Most people in our district, no matter their party, just want a legislature that solves problems instead of fighting culture wars. That’s why I authored bipartisan legislation creating a Minnesota Entrepreneurship Task Force, to bring entrepreneurs, workers, and educators together to strengthen what's working in our

business climate and fix what isn't. I've built my record on working with Republicans and Democrats for exactly that kind of work, because the next four years shouldn't be about scoring points. They should be about proving state government can still deliver for people.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. First, I've made government accountability a priority. I

authored the legislation creating Minnesota's Office of Inspector General, an independent watchdog with authority to investigate fraud across state agencies, which passed with bipartisan support. I now chair the Legislative Inspector General Advisory Commission, and I'll keep pushing to give that office everything it needs to catch bad actors before they drain public resources. Second, the cost of living has families in our district stretched thin. I've focused on meaningful relief: school meals, which save families real money every month, and consumer protections like click-to-cancel laws that stop companies from quietly draining people's wallets with recurring subscriptions. Going forward, I’ll pursue an affordability agenda rooted in what families actually deal with day to day: groceries, child care, health care costs, and holding corporations accountable when they take advantage of people, so families here can actually get ahead.

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 MINNESOTA SENATE DISTRICT 36 (ELECT 1)

Heidi Heino (R)

City of residence: Centerville Occupation: Associate director of

partnership development and smallbusiness owner

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Member, Minnesota Task Force on Priority Admissions to State-Operated Treatment Programs • President, Fellowship of Extraordinary Women, Twin Cities Chapter • Volunteer, Eagle Brook Church One-on-One Care Team for eight years

Q. Why do you want to serve in the Minnesota Legislature? A. I have spent my career in the private sector, negotiating

contracts and solving complex problems for my company and our clients. That experience shapes how I look at government. When I see a problem, I want to understand what is causing it and find a practical way to fix it. Like many others, I have no pension. I have to plan, save, and take responsibility for my family’s future. Every additional dollar taken in taxes is money a family cannot use for its needs

today or save for tomorrow. I am running because Minnesota government needs more people with private-sector experience who will ask hard questions, follow the money, and challenge the way things have always been done. Too often, government measures success by how much it spends instead of whether it solved the problem. I want to help restore accountability and make Minnesota a place where families can thrive.

Q. What can the state do in the next five years to help Minnesota prosper? A. Minnesota can prosper by making it easier for families and

businesses to stay and grow here. First, state government must slow spending growth and review programs for results before increasing their budgets. Savings should be used to reduce taxes and avoid shifting state costs onto local property taxpayers. Second, Minnesota should shorten permitting timelines, eliminate duplicative regulations, and give small businesses one place to navigate state requirements. The state should streamline permitting without dictating local housing decisions. Cities should have a say in how their communities grow. Third, we must protect the foundations employers and families rely on: safe communities, dependable roads, access to health care, and schools that teach reading, writing, math, and critical thinking. Minnesota has talented people, strong

communities, and innovative businesses. The next five years should focus on removing barriers, protecting taxpayer dollars, and making it possible for people to build their future here.

Q. What are two challenges that the state faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. The first challenge is fraud and the loss of public trust.

Billions of taxpayer dollars have been placed at risk because state programs lacked adequate oversight. Once fraud is discovered, the money is often already gone. I would support stronger front-end verification, tiered oversight based on risk, better coordination among agencies, and meaningful consequences for those who misuse public funds. Fraud prevention must begin before the first payment is issued. The second challenge is affordability. Families are being squeezed by property taxes, energy costs, housing expenses, and the rising cost of everyday necessities. If elected, I would work to restrain government spending, oppose unfunded mandates that increase local property taxes, reduce barriers to housing development, and lower the tax and regulatory burden so Minnesota can retain businesses and workers. Government cannot eliminate every financial pressure, but it should stop making those pressures worse.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF (ELECT 1)

Brian Mueller

City of residence: Lake Elmo Occupation: Chief of Police for the

city of Stillwater for almost six years. Previously spent 23 years at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in a variety of roles including: Patrol Deputy, Detective, Sergeant, Patrol Commander, Investigative Commander and Drug Task Force Commander, SWAT Commander, and Chief Deputy overseeing all Sheriff’s Office operations

it that way. As Sheriff, I will focus on reducing violent crime, community-focused service, strengthening our response to mental health and substance use challenges, supporting our first responders, and caring for those in our jail. I believe public safety is built on relationships. I will bring proven leadership and strong community partnerships while ensuring we remain accessible and responsive to the people we serve every day.

Q. What can the sheriff’s office do in the next five years to keep the county safe? A. Keeping Washington County safe requires strong, proven

is where we are raising our five children and the community I have been privileged to serve throughout my 28-year law enforcement career. I want to serve as Sheriff because I care deeply about the safety and future of this community and believe my experience as Washington County Chief Deputy and Stillwater Chief of Police has prepared me to lead from day one. Washington County is a safe community, and I want to keep

leadership, collaboration, and the ability to adapt to emerging public safety challenges. Over the next five years, the Sheriff’s Office must strengthen partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement to target violent crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and repeat offenders. We must also continue investing in mental health and substance use response, including crisis intervention training, co-responder partnerships, and alternatives to jail when appropriate. Recruiting, retaining, training, and supporting exceptional deputies, correctional staff, 911 dispatchers and professional staff must remain a priority. Most importantly, the Sheriff’s Office must remain connected to the communities we serve. Relationships within this county matter. I have built strong relationships with residents, schools, businesses, community organizations, and local leaders which

Jeremy Bolen

Q. Why do you want to serve as sheriff? A. I want to serve as your next sheriff to better Washington

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Youth hockey coach - Stillwater Area Hockey Association • Board member - Canvas Health • Board member - United Way Washington County East

Q. Why do you want to serve as sheriff? A. Washington County has been my home my entire life. It

City of residence: Cottage Grove Occupation: Commander of

Administration and Executive Officer to the Undersheriff, Ramsey County Sheriff's Office

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Grant manager and agency liaisonRamsey County Sheriff's Foundation • Team captain, communications Officer, and trustee-Law Enforcement United-Virginia Division • Volunteer youth basketball and youth recreation soccer coachCottage Grove

County with fresh ideas, a bold stance on crime, improved mental health and substance abuse response and programming, and enhanced community engagement between law enforcement and the communities we serve.

Q. What can the sheriff’s office do in the next five years to keep the county safe? A. Fill vacancies and improve recruitment and retention,

restore safe staffing levels in our patrol division, jail, and dispatch center, support staff with balanced workloads and resources, expand mental health and substance abuse services, and ensure accountability through transparency and oversight.

will allow us to identify concerns early, solve problems together, and keep Washington County safe for future generations.

Q. What are two challenges that the department faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. Successful public safety depends on having well-trained,

supported professionals. Having lived here my entire life, public safety in Washington County is personal to me, and taking care of the women and men who serve is paramount. As Sheriff, I will focus on competitive recruitment, leadership development, employee wellness, quality training, and maintaining a culture where employees feel valued and supported. Retaining experienced deputies, correctional staff, 911 dispatchers, and professional staff is just as important as recruiting the next generation. Mental health and substance use challenges also require a coordinated response. I will strengthen Crisis Intervention Team training, expand co-responder partnerships with mental health professionals, and improve collaboration with hospitals, treatment providers, and community organizations. When appropriate, we should connect people with treatment and services rather than relying on jail as the solution. Both challenges require strong partnerships with all Washington County stakeholders, innovative thinking, and experienced leadership.

Q. What are two challenges that the department faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. 1. Mental health and substance abuse response and

programming. I will partner with community experts who have experience and knowledge within the field, and I will expand the co-response model where deputies respond to persons in crisis with a social worker. 2. Expand agency resources to coincide with the expansion of our communities. Ensure that sheriff's resources can supplement municipal agencies when understaffed or unavailable to respond to emergencies or calls for service.

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 WASHINGTON COUNTY COMISSIONER DISTRICT 2 (ELECT 1)

Stan Karwoski

City of residence: Oakdale Occupation: Retired, Graco Inc. – 38 year career in product development

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Elected – Currently Washington County Commissioner, District 2; past Oakdale Mayor and City Council Member • Education – Volunteer service on the Century College Foundation Board and Metro State Foundation Board. • Commissioner service – Workforce Development Board; Transportation Advisory Board; Washington County Park and Open Space Commission; Minnesota Inter-County Association Board - past President; East Metro Strong Board - Co-Chair; Greater MSP Board; Century Avenue Coalition; and several Local Chambers of Commerce.

Q. Why do you want to serve on the County Board? A. My pledge is to continue representing residents with proven,

trusted, and effective service. Not limited but applying myself to these priorities: Public Safety and Mental Health – As an elected County Commissioner my most important responsibility is public safety. Our County Board approved investments in our sheriff’s office to keep crime low. Our county supports

our County Attorney’s Office to hold criminals accountable. Our county is also making investments in early mental health intervention by embedding our Social Worker Crisis Unit within policing to prevent costly crime and tragic incidents. Clean Water and Protecting our Environment – Our county is protecting critical pristine water and natural areas to assure clean water for our future. Workforce Development and Affordable Housing – My workforce commitment is helping residents find quality careers and improved wages. Also working with our Community Development Agency to increase private affordable housing investments. Quality jobs help make housing affordable.

Q. What can the county do in the next five years to help the area prosper? A. We have an excellent county but cannot stand still and

assume our county will continue to prosper. Our community needs many positive quality-of-life factors for our future to remain bright. These are priorities I will work on to assure our county has a prosperous future. Reasonable County Property Taxes – Continue to support only correct and needed budget priorities. Workforce Shortage – Our businesses need to grow using our county residents to fill these good paying quality jobs otherwise businesses will leave our county and relocate where they can find skilled employees. I’m assigned workforce development and work on career pathway strategies to meet our current and

future workforce needs. My priority is to use our residents to meet this shortage. Housing Shortage & Affordability – Support adding housing that is quality and affordable for all ages. Clean Environment, Water, and Natural Areas – Continue protecting important acreage for today and future generations.

Q. What are two challenges that the county faces and how might you solve them if elected? A. First keeping Washington County a great place to live.

Second, keeping county property taxes as low as possible. I’m very active in our community and these are two important challenges I hear consistently from our residents. A primary elected responsibility is listening and effectively representing all residents by getting their input. An example of listening and acting is building the Wildwood Library, new county 12 with sidewalks, and protecting land and water primarily using our land and water legacy program. These actions make our community a great place to live. Improvements must be made with financial discipline when facing challenges of providing federal and state mandated but needed citizen social service programs with increased federal and state cost shift responsibility to our county. We are managing this financial pressure by collaborating on projects for efficiency with our cities and increasing our county tax base with quality growth.

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BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE MAYOR (ELECT 1)

Jennifer Arsenault

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. One of the primary responsibilities of City Council is

City of residence: Birchwood Village Occupation: Retired educator List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Mayor of Birchwood Village • Member of Birchwood Village Parks’ Committee

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. Serving on the City Council provides a unique opportunity

to tangibly improve peoples’ lives. The decisions the Council makes on behalf of the residents, can often have a direct impact on their daily lives. Serving as Mayor has enabled me to initiate several changes within the City that I would like to see through to completion which is why I am seeking a second term.

to develop and manage a responsible budget that reflects the priorities and feedback of Birchwood Village residents. Residents have made it clear that they value a well-maintained community and expect their tax dollars to be used thoughtfully to preserve and improve the City. The current Council had identified City maintenance and improvements and communication with residents as key priorities. Over the next five years, my goal is for residents to see the results from these efforts. I hope that, through thoughtful planning, responsible budgeting and continued engagement with residents, the progress made will be evident in the condition of our roads, infrastructure, and public spaces.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected?

A. Two significant challenges facing Birchwood Village are: on-going road maintenance and the need for infrastructure repair and improvements. These challenges are not specific to Birchwood, but Birchwood’s revenue source is. Since the City receives no income from commercial entities, the cost of any repairs or improvements is borne primarily by its residents. The City Council has a responsibility to ensure that Birchwood maintains safe, reliable, and functional infrastructure while exercising careful stewardship of public resources. The challenge is to address critical maintenance and improvements in a fiscally responsible manner while minimizing the financial burden on residents in an effort to preserve the affordability and quality of life that make Birchwood Village a desirable community. These challenges can be solved by working closely with all affected stakeholders. Developing a fluid, long-term plan complete with financing options which is approved by the residents would be a logical way to address these issues.

BIRCHWOOD VILLAGE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE (ELECT 1)

Paul Drews

City of residence: Birchwood Village Occupation: Retired after 40 years.

During the first half of my career, I worked as a juvenile group counselor and probation officer, helping people re-enter and integrate back into their communities. Then I moved to the private sector, collaborating with government agencies to improve supervision programs. These experiences gave me valuable insight into navigating government processes, evaluating programs and working collaboratively to solve problems. I’ll bring these experiences to city government through thoughtful decision-making, responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources and a commitment to listening to and serving our community.

List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Secretary, Birchwood Village Dock Association • Volunteer, Valley Outreach

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I care deeply about Birchwood Village and want to be a good

steward of the community we call home. My experience working with government agencies, solving problems and bringing people together can be valuable to our city. With my recent retirement I now have the time, interest and ability to give back through public service. I enjoy working with others, listening to different perspectives and finding practical solutions. I would be honored to help preserve what makes our community special while working together to address the challenges ahead.

natural resources remains a community priority. Finally, we should continue to build on our new Connections Committee’s efforts to bring our community closer together by creating opportunities for residents of all ages and interests to connect, participate and build lasting relationships.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. The City Council should develop a realistic, long-term plan

and deteriorating sewer and drainage infrastructure, including erosion resulting from inadequate drainage. Addressing these issues will require a long-term, financially responsible plan that prioritizes the most critical needs, explores available funding and clearly communicates priorities, costs and timelines to residents. I would also make listening and transparency central to the process. Residents deserve an opportunity to share their concerns, understand the challenges we face and have a voice in evaluating potential solutions. I would work collaboratively with residents, city staff, engineers and other experts to develop practical solutions while balancing infrastructure needs with the city’s financial resources and other community priorities.

to address aging roads, sewer systems and other infrastructure while remaining financially responsible and responsive to other community needs. One of the first things we noticed when we moved here were the parks and beaches that make Birchwood Village such a special place. These are treasures that we should protect and preserve for future generations. The Parks and Natural Resources Committee plays an important role in that stewardship, working with partners such as the Washington County Conservation District and Rice Creek Watershed District. The City Council should continue to support these efforts and ensure that protecting our parks, beaches and

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Two significant challenges facing our city are our aging roads

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 DELLWOOD MAYOR (ELECT 1)

Mike McGill

Q. Why do you want to be the Mayor of Dellwood? A. To continue the work of the last eight years. Running the

City of residence: Dellwood Occupation: Entrepreneur and mayor of

city in a fiscally responsible manner that best serves all of the residents of our city.

Dellwood

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. If reelected, I will continue to work with the City Council

• Mayor, Dellwood – Last eight years • City Council, Dellwood • Treasurer, Dellwood

to operate the city in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner. We have an experienced and dedicated council who are committed to serving the community in a conscientious manner.

Q. What are the challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Dellwood faces many of the same challenges that any small

city faces. We must provide adequate services for our residents in an efficient and cost-effective manner. We must evaluate and analyze all issues that come before the council and make judgments as to what is best for our city. Two ongoing issues that we are evaluating are whether to construct the Lake Links Trail within Dellwood and whether or not the city can / should take over jurisdiction of TH 244 within the City.

DELLWOOD CITY COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE (ELECT 2)

Brady Ramsay

Conservation District

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I want to continue serving to help preserve what makes

City of residence: Dellwood Occupation: Certified Public

Dellwood special while making thoughtful, fiscally responsible decisions for our future.

Accountant

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

generations.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Rising costs and preserving our community’s character.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Plan ahead for road needs, deliver essential services

• City Council also serving as deputy mayor and road commissioner • Treasurer for the city of Dellwood • Board member for the White Bear Lake

efficiently and keep Dellwood a desirable community for future

Greg Boosalis

appreciate the unique beautiful rural nature of Dellwood and want to preserve such for future generations.

City of residence: Dellwood Occupation: 45 years as a practicing

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. In order to make Dellwood prosper, I plan to work with

attorney; 27 years as an FBI Agent, Supervisor and Division Legal Counsel; JD William Mitchel/ LLM George Washington Law School.

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Third term as City Council member

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I wish to serve on the City Council because I very much

my other council members to enhance safety by enhancing its roadways for pedestrians as well as making sure that our citizens enjoy a sufficient law enforcement protections and deterrence against crime. I also will ensure that Dellwood remains a fiscally conservative community which uses tax dollars wisely.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Over the next five years Dellwood is faced with several

challenges. One of which is the bike pedestrian path that has been proposed for Dellwood. What appears to be a simple matter on the surface is quite complex when the proposed trail property is not owned by Dellwood and Hwy 244 is owned by the state. Over the next few years, I will be committed to work with private landowners as well state and county officials to make the trail a reality. The trail however must be balanced with the interests of the private landowners and the potential financial burden on the citizens of Dellwood.

GEM LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER (ELECT 2)

Jim Tschida

Council directly affects our neighborhoods, our infrastructure, our public safety, and overall quality of life. These decisions deserve leaders who are willing to listen, ask difficult questions, work collaboratively and always keep the best interest of the residents at the center of the conversation.

City of residence: Gem Lake Occupation: Retired. Managed property

insurance claims for 35 years.

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Not provided

This is my first civic involvement role.

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I want to be on the Gem Lake City

Council because I care deeply about our community and its residents. I want to see our city continue to be a place where families feel safe, businesses can thrive and people feel proud to live here. The decisions made by City

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. 1. Apple Ford redesign and expansion: If elected I will work collaboratively with Apple Ford, residents, city staff and other stakeholders to develop a thoughtful solution to the Apple Ford rebuild project that is

beneficial to both business and community. This plan should address concerns regarding lighting, privacy, traffic flow, and safety, while creating an appropriate transition between commercial and residential areas. I would advocate for a design solution that would soften the ecological impact, including additional green space, trees, native landscaping, stormwater management, and appropriate screening and setbacks. My goal would be to help create a plan that allows Apple Ford to succeed while protecting neighborhood character, quality of life and our community’s long-term interests. 2. Ensuring every Gem Lake resident has safe, potable water is a priority for me. I will listen to affected residents, pursue available resources, and work toward practical, lasting solutions to assist the affected households.

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 GRANT COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE (ELECT 2)

Greg Anderson

City of residence: Grant for 30 years Occupation: I’m a civil engineer with

three decades of experience working with cities, counties, planning commissions and elected officials. My professional background has given me practical insight into local government, infrastructure planning, budgeting and public decisionmaking.

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

I currently serve on the Grant City Council, following my appointment in February 2025. I previously served on the Grant Planning Commission from 2023 to 2025 and am a member of the Fusion Learning Partners Board of Directors. I bring preparation, practical experience, and a commitment to respectful, resident-focused service.

John Rog

Q. Why do you want to serve on the city council? A. I’m running because I care deeply about Grant and want to

continue serving the community my family and I have called home for nearly 30 years. My time on the City Council and Planning Commission has shown me that good local government depends on preparation, common sense, respectful discussion and listening to residents. As a municipal engineer, I also bring practical experience working with cities and counties. I want to serve with openness, fairness and a steady focus on what is best for Grant residents.

Q. What can the city council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Over the next five years, Grant can prosper by protecting

what residents value most while planning responsibly for the future. Updating the Comprehensive Plan (due at the end of 2028) is a key opportunity to preserve Grant’s rural character, including current land-use patterns and lot sizes. At the same

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I want the city of Grant to stay rural. 10-acre average, 5-acre

City of residence: Grant since 2007 Occupation: Consulting engineer,

minimum. Keep wells and septic. No city water!

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. We are going to have to keep taxes low, and services to

specializing in Six Sigma

I have been in City Council since 2018, and before that I was chairman of the Planning Commission for two years.

citizens the same!

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected?

time, the city needs a practical Capital Road Improvement Plan that identifies priorities, budgets carefully, and makes smart infrastructure investments. With sound planning, transparent decisions and respect for taxpayers, Grant can remain rural, well-managed, and prepared for the years ahead.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Two challenges facing Grant are rising costs and keeping

residents engaged. To address budget pressures, I would rely on careful planning, practical infrastructure priorities, and responsible spending that respects taxpayers while maintaining essential services. To strengthen public engagement, I would continue listening, showing up at neighborhood meetings and city events, and encouraging residents to serve on committees and commissions. Good decisions come from open conversations, common sense and working together to protect Grant’s rural character and long-term future.

A. The first challenge is our budget. Keeping the inflation rate lower for our taxes is difficult when all of our line items continue to climb. We can lower different areas without increasing all. It's a balancing act. The state of Minnesota has decided that they know what best for our city and has given us no option on cannabis. That is wrong and I will work to tell our State Legislators how wrong that bill is. We as a city of 4,100 should be able to opt out. We don't even get gas tax funds for our roads! You need 5,000 residents for that!

VADNAIS HEIGHTS MAYOR (ELECT 1)

Greg Urban

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Business owner List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Vadnais Heights Deputy Mayor • Vadnais Heights City Council Member • Vadnais Heights Planning Commission

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I want to serve as the mayor of Vadnais Heights to follow

up on the two very successful terms I served on the Vadnais Heights City Council. During my time on the council, we kept taxes low while making record investments in city infrastructure and maintaining quality city services. I believe

Mike Krachmer

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Retired List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• I volunteer with organizations providing safe, affordable housing such as Solid Ground and Habitat for Humanity. • I am engaged regularly with local and regional city government leadership, including Cities for Safe and Stable Communities and the Regional Council of Mayors, and I communicate often with our state legislators. This networking helps identify additional resources for our city. • I show up at public events to keep connected to the people that we serve, and I meet with residents, at their request, in addition to three scheduled opportunities per month.

the 66% increase in the city budget in the past four years is extremely excessive, especially considering more increases are planned. I also believe that a guiding principle must always be that the council is elected to serve the residents, and it seems that this has been forgotten about.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. The city must listen to their residents, understanding that

not everyone will always get their way. It makes no sense to force city projects upon a community when it appears that a majority object. I believe Vadnais Heights is a very nice city as is, and we do not need to reinvent the wheel to keep it nice. My focus as Mayor will be to avoid costly and unneeded city projects and to keep taxes low, all while maintaining what we have and continuing to provide quality city services. Additionally, I would

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. As mayor since 2023, my understanding of the needs of

our community and how to serve our residents has grown significantly. Providing sustainable and reliable city services, updating the city’s infrastructure, and improving planning and budgeting processes has been successful to date, but there is more to do. I am running again to continue that ongoing work.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. I will continue to execute the long-term plans laid out for the

city, including: • designating the funds to reduce and finally eliminate special assessments for street projects. • implementing the parks master plan. • implementing the pavement management policy. • obtaining grant funding for city projects. • improving communication and engagement with our residents.

CANDIDATE BRIAN HENDEY DID NOT RESPOND

like to see street assessments end, as they place a large financial burden on the affected residents for the apparent privilege of living on a city street.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. A decision will soon be made on whether the proposed

new fire station will move forward, which I oppose due to the proposed costs. To the extent any changes to existing facilities are needed, I believe there are several alternatives that would cost significantly less. Regardless of how the fire station issue resolves, our public safety costs continue to see significant cost increases. We will need to have community discussions and think outside the box for ways to provide quality public safety services while not placing an excessive tax burden on our residents.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. The current trends in our economy are making the provision of public services and maintenance of infrastructure more and more costly. We need to find ways, together, to provide the quality of life that our residents deserve while limiting tax burdens to the best of our ability. I believe that continuing to refine our strategies for investing and budgeting, with input from our residents, is critical. We will do this by creating a finance commission. Our city has a housing challenge. We have very limited affordable housing for our teachers and firefighters and those who work in our retail and manufacturing businesses. A large number of our residents are rent-or-mortgage burdened. I will continue to support the development of both workforce and market-rate housing.

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 VADNAIS HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL (ELECT 2)

Craig Johnson

City of Residence: Vadnais Heights,

for the past 46 years, where my wife, Nancy, and I have raised two sons. We are now the proud grandparents of seven grandchildren. Occupation: Engineering project manager, (retired)

List three most recent civic involvement roles

• Vadnais Heights City Council, 2012-2020 • I have been active in my neighborhood, working to modify the Greenhaven Green Street Project. I also helped collect petition signatures to stop the sale of $33 million in city bonds. • My project engineering and business background help me evaluate projects for feasibility and long-term financial impact and make me qualified to serve on the City Council again.

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I previously served on the Vadnais Heights City Council

after the 2008 council voted to build the Vadnais Sports Dome

Donald Jorgenson

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Retired electrician List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Attending Lion’s Waffle Breakfast twice a year • Participating in the Vadnais Heights Heritage Days activities

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I want to bring common sense and fiscal responsibility to the

city of Vadnais Heights. I believe that the city has a spending problem. I watched as the playing surface at the local tennis court was resurfaced. A year or two later, the asphalt base was torn out and replaced. The playing surface was then once again replaced. I watched as perfectly good playground equipment

Katherine Doll Kanne

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Regulatory affairs manager, Abbott Laboratories

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Vadnais Heights City Council • Board of Directors of Vadnais Lakes Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) • Vadnais Heights Planning Commission

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. When I ran for City Council in 2022, my goal was to establish

better long-term budget planning. Prior to the 2023 city budget, our capital improvement plan planned for the next five years. This shorter-term planning made it difficult to save for larger expenses to maintain our current level of services. Our street replacement program wasn’t keeping pace with the rate at which our roads were deteriorating. Our playgrounds were

Kelly Jozwowski

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Industrial sales List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Vadnais Heights City Council • Vadnais Heights Planning Commission Liaison • Vadnais Heights Park, Recreation & Trails Commission Vice Chair

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I’ve spent the last four years working to improve

infrastructure planning and forecasting, foster a more connected community, and improve the environmental stewardship of the city. There is more work we can do. I would love the opportunity over the next four years to continue

and hockey rink. The city issued a $20 million bond and spent another $4 million covering losses, which compelled me to run. The city also built Vadnais Commons, the South Fire Station and a maintenance building. Vadnais Commons has become a drain on city resources and is too expensive for many residents to use. The South Fire Station now stores fire equipment, but its living and sleeping quarters remain unused. These poor decisions are why I first ran for council. I believe the current City Council has made similar mistakes with the Green Street Project and its attempt to issue $33 million in bonds for a new fire station without residents’ consent.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. The next City Council should focus on maintaining existing

infrastructure, including repairing roads more often than every 25 to 30 years. The city should also review staffing and operations to identify duplicated work and services it should no longer provide. To lower and control the annual property tax levy, the city must address salaries and benefits, which make up 80% of the annual budget and are the largest driver of the levy. As the current council adds more infrastructure, staffing needs

was removed and replaced with new equipment. The city budgeted $50,000 for a new manlift. They spent $20,000 on the manlift. With the remaining money, they decided to purchase a new vehicle for $42,000, to plow the trails. They only received one bid to provide the new vehicle, while spending $12,000 more than budgeted. Why not use the new Bobcat that was purchased last year to plow the trails?

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. The City Council needs to ensure that we have an affordable

and safe community to ensure that the city prospers for the next five years. The City Council needs to ensure that city services are easy to use, transparent and cost effective. The recent bond proposal for a new fire station was excessive and would have forced many homeowners out of their homes. The City Council needs to keep our property taxes as low as possible to ensure a diverse, affordable community.

shrinking when we needed to fund replacements. We now have a 10-year capital improvement plan (matching our neighboring cities) and are working towards a 15-year plan. We now have a parks master plan to guide saving and funding our parks. I want to ensure we maintain our longer-term planning mindset so we are acknowledging our budget challenges early and working as soon as reasonably possible to address them.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. In addition to maintaining a long-term budget planning

mindset, the council can help the city prosper by continuing to pursue outside funding opportunities for infrastructure projects. We have had a couple recent big wins securing state funding for two infrastructure projects. In 2026, our city secured $4.75 million from the state bonding bill for the Vadnais Lakes Blvd. Trail in partnership with our state-level elected leaders, and another $2.8 million from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund for nature-based recreation that will improve water quality and reduce flooding issues in partnership with VLAWMO. Our city council should continue to work with

working with and meeting residents where they are. I want to hear everyone’s concerns and find ways to improve the Vadnais Heights experience. It’s a beautiful place to live and raise a family. Everyone in town should have access to and be able to enjoy the natural beauty that is Vadnais Heights.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Over the next five years, I see the council spending more time

engaging and listening to the community’s needs. We succeed when we all work together including the tough subjects like implementing our parks master plan, moving away from street assessments, and managing a predictable and steady levy. I hope to expand our low-interest home improvement loan program as well as support developers for the very few undeveloped lots left in our city to maximize land usage as the market dictates.

also increase. The city also needs to review its interactions with our local businesses and homeowners to remove unnecessary forms and regulations that make building permits difficult to process.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. The current Council was so confident in their decision to

build a new fire station that they hired an architectural firm to complete all the construction drawings using $1 million dollars from the city’s general funds. They had planned on simply approving the issuance of $33 million dollars of bonds that the citizens were responsible to pay back. The council hired a public relations firm to convince the voters that there is no other option. We need new alternative options and transparency. In the future, the City Council needs to recognize that we are a city of 12,000 to 14,000 people. We are not as big as our neighbors, and we cannot afford to have all the same amenities as they do. We will need to look at cooperating and sharing equipment with our neighbors, and we will need to contract out more nonessential services.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. The first challenge that the city of Vadnais Heights will face

is the South Fire Station. Eventually, the South Fire Station will need to be updated or replaced. A 35-year-old building is fully capable of functioning for several more years. I would suggest that we do things “the old-fashioned way” — that is to save the money and pay cash. The current city hall was paid for with cash; let’s do it again. The second challenge is to avoid subsidizing any development within the city. Tax Increment Financing was originally meant to improve blighted areas. Any undeveloped land within the city is prime real estate, not blighted. TIF dedicates that any increased tax revenue goes to pay off the debt on the project. The city and school district receive none of the increased tax revenue, just the extra cost of providing services. I am completely opposed to using TIF on any upcoming projects.

our city partners on advocating for our community’s interests, as well as empower our city staff with the resources necessary to pursue outside funding opportunities.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Most of our city’s challenges are tied to funding, so the

introduction of longer-term planning in the past four years will help identify and provide time to resolve these challenges. For example, two challenges we’re addressing are removing special property assessments and investing in our parks and trails. Last year, we began a 10-plus-year process to build a fund to scale down and eventually remove special property assessments for street projects. This will alleviate the burden on property owners and reduce cost for the city by eliminating the administrative process. We also created a parks master plan with short, medium and long-term priorities (i.e., five, five-to-10 and 10-plus-year timelines). Maintaining longer-term budget planning will aid the city in anticipating expenses years in advance, allowing budget and saving over time to meet the city’s future needs.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. The biggest challenges currently are funding and

development. For years, the councils before us focused on one irresponsible action: keep the levy dangerously low. This meant years of unfunded essential improvements: road repairs, fire truck purchases, public works maintenance projects, etc. Meanwhile, core services like sewer and water continued to climb with inflation. This required proportional corrective levies during my tenure for FY24 and FY25. Since then, the council has worked diligently to level out these increases. Currently, we are seeing those boosts yield benefits with road projects and public safety improvements. The budget has now been reasonably balanced for a city of our size and we must meet the challenge to maintain that stability. As for development, recent research shows a housing deficit, which I intend to focus on. I will work with and support housing developments that make sense for all our community.

10B WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 VADNAIS HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL (ELECT 2)

Patricia Youker

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: I currently serve as

office manager of a healthcare facility, overseeing operations, billing and administration. My experience includes working alongside engineers to improve mainframe computer manufacturing processes. I earned a degree in Fashion Management/Marketing with a 4.0 GPA, developed nationwide retail training and merchandising programs, own a photography business, and worked in a CPA office. These experiences taught me to ask questions, understand numbers, find practical solutions and be accountable for results. List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Vadnais Heights City Council Member, 2019–2022 • VLAWMO board representative • VLAWMO treasurer

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. I am running for Vadnais Heights City Council because I

care about our community and believe residents deserve a strong voice in how their city is run and how their tax dollars are spent. Having served on the council before, I understand the responsibility that comes with the position. I know the

importance of asking tough questions, listening to residents, and challenging what is presented when the numbers or facts don't add up. With city spending and property taxes continuing to rise, we need to get back to basics: prioritize essential services, control spending, plan for what we can afford and involve residents before major decisions are made — not after. Experience has taught me that good governing requires more than approving what is put in front of you. It requires accountability, independent judgment and the willingness to ask whether taxpayers are getting real value for every dollar the city spends.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Vadnais Heights is largely developed, so prosperity cannot

simply mean more development and more spending. We must make the most of what we have by supporting existing businesses; removing unnecessary barriers to investment; and encouraging responsible redevelopment that strengthens our tax base, benefits residents, and preserves the character and sense of community that make Vadnais Heights a great place to live. Growth should pay its way and bring lasting value. Responsible spending also means taking care of infrastructure taxpayers have already funded. Streets, utilities, buildings and other public assets require long term planning, anticipating major expenses, setting priorities, building reserves and phasing projects responsibly. Planning ahead

helps prevent unnecessary property-tax spikes. The City Council can help Vadnais Heights prosper by supporting a strong local economy, maintaining dependable services, controlling costs and ensuring taxpayers are not asked to pay more without a clear and demonstrated need.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. The first challenge is the rising cost of city government.

Residents are paying more for nearly every part of their lives, and city hall cannot ignore what taxpayers can afford. We need to separate needs from wants, understand the full, long-term cost before approving major projects, pursue outside funding first, and maintain what taxpayers own before adding new obligations. The second challenge is restoring public trust. That starts with better communication and transparency. Major financial and development decisions should not feel decided before residents have a meaningful opportunity to weigh in. Financial information should be clear, alternatives and costs presented openly, and public input sought early. The council and city work for the residents — not the other way around. Residents deserve clear information about what is being considered, the alternatives, and the costs before decisions are made. Meaningful public input should help shape decisions, not simply be acknowledged afterward.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR SEAT B (ELECT 1)

Beth Artner

many friends love and appreciate living in the township. They asked me to consider running and so I did. My work and life experience has been very useful as a board Supervisor.

Commercial Construction, small business owner, semi-retired

Q. What can the Board of Supervisors do in the next five years to help the township prosper? A. We are mostly built out, so strengthening and enhancing

City of residence: White Bear Township Occupation: Project manager List three most recent civic involvement roles:

what we have to continue keeping us a very desirable community for work, to live, recreation and environment. The good news is that the town has made some solid decisions in the past regarding business and residential growth, creating a good balance for township residents.

• Town Board Supervisor • Former chair/vice chair Planning Commission (20 years); Township Safety and Utility Commission • Entira Advisory Board

Q. Why do you want to serve on the Board of Supervisors? A. I’ve always been interested in the township, especially

through Planning Commission. My family, extended family and

Q. What are two challenges in your township and how might you solve them if elected? A. Challenges for the township are unfunded mandates by

money for infrastructure projects is not reliable in the current climate. Property taxes have truly reached an unsustainable level. Ramsey County has acknowledged that property taxpayers are overburdened. I’d like to invite any interested residents to form a Citizen Committee, to help identify ways of relieving the pressure of unfunded mandates and unsustainable property taxes. Township actions could include pooling resources with other cities, looking into creative solutions for increasing efficiency for land and infrastructure maintenance. Continue looking for grant opportunities. Ask residents to plant trees and water them to create more tree canopy along with adding flower and pollinators beds along the streets and boulevards. Researching and communicating to residents things they can do to help the town. Even small gestures are beneficial; let’s leave the place better than we found it.

the state, county and federal governments, which means

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR SEAT C (ELECT 1)

Steve Ruzek

City of residence: White Bear Township Occupation: Retired as regional

to be a part of that. I want to continue my efforts in supporting the citizens of White Bear Township as we strive for a proper balance between careful spending to keep costs low and providing modern, quality services to all constituents. This is a great place to live, and I want to do my part to keep it that way.

prudently. We must continue to plan proactively for our future needs.

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

Q. What can the Board of Supervisors do in the next five years to help the township prosper? A. The Town Board must not become complacent. We must

are the largest township by population in Minnesota with 70 miles of roads to plow and maintain, busy parks and trail systems to manage and improve, water systems to maintain to meet our needs and police, fire and emergency medical services to manage effectively. All these are basic and crucial but costly. The challenge is to manage these needs, always planning for future needs. We need to be frugal and continue to look for funding sources from our partners, searching for grants and cost sharing to lessen the direct tax burden on our residents. Another challenge is to maintain our small-town feel. Citizen engagement to provide a sense of belonging will continue to be key. The Township must actively solicit citizen involvement by listening carefully, responding quickly and communicating effectively through every means available. We must make it easy to be informed and involved.

manager/director, after over 30 years in insurance/financial field; some consulting now in my spare time

• Town Board Supervisor, White Bear Township • Town Board liaison to White Bear Township Planning Commission • Town Board liaison to White Bear Township Park Board

Q. Why do you want to serve on the Board of Supervisors? A. Serving White Bear Township, my family’s home for over

40 years, is a great privilege. Township government, being local and concerned with day-to-day quality of life issues, is grassroots government at its best. Our form of government is uniquely designed for citizen participation, and I feel blessed

POLITICAL BRIEF League of Women Voters seeks questions for forums The League of Women Voters – White Bear Lake’s candidate forum season is in full swing. Voters who would like to submit questions for Minnesota State Senate District 33, Minnesota State House District 33A and the Mahtomedi School Board should do so by Sept. 21. Once completed, the forums will be available online at lvw-wbla.org

stay involved in our communities and continue to educate ourselves on what people love about the Township and what improvements we can make. We need to keep a close eye on the economy, including our bond rating, getting the best guidance we can on how best to provide services while being prudent in taking on financial obligations. We must continue to speak up for the needs of our Township, pursuing support for our quality of life and our fair share of local government aid. While we have been successful in working with our state representatives in obtaining some funding, we must work diligently to keep advocating for a fair share. We are proud of the quality of our office and public works staff and must continue to staff

How to vote early

By mail To vote by mail, apply to have an absentee ballot mailed to you. You do not need to be registered to apply. For your ballot to count, remember this important information: • Read the instructions that come with your ballot carefully. • You will need a witness when you vote and complete your

ballot. The witness can be either a registered Minnesota voter or a notary. • Return the ballot and forms right away after you finish. Your ballot will not count if it is received after Election Day. In person All voters have at least one location where they can vote early in person with an absentee ballot. Depending on where you live, there may be

Q. What are two challenges in your township and how might you solve them if elected? A. Maintaining infrastructure is the ever-present challenge. We

additional locations. • You can vote in person at your county election office. • In addition, you may be able to vote at your city office. Contact the clerk for more information. For most elections, absentee voting locations must be open during their normal business hours starting 46 days before the election. In addition, locations offering absentee ballots for federal,

state or county elections must be open: • The last Saturday before Election Day (10 a.m. — 3 p.m.) • The day before Election Day until 5 p.m. • Some local jurisdictions may provide additional absentee voting days or hours beyond the above required days and times. Call your jurisdiction for more information.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

11B

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 WILLERNIE MAYOR (ELECT 1)

Andrew De Jong

City of residence: Willernie Occupation: I divide my time between

nonprofit financial consulting and being a part-time stay-at-home dad to our two young sons and baby daughter.

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

I’ve served on the Willernie City Council since 2020 — the only public office I’ve ever sought. I’ve also volunteered with county commissions, local schools and nonprofits (including coaching middle-school basketball and my son’s soccer teams), and earlier non-partisan work for the Minnesota Legislature.

Q. Why do you want to serve as mayor? A. I’ve served on the council since 2020 and care deeply about

keeping Willernie the steady, friendly place it is. When the mayoral seat unexpectedly became open, I was asked to step up. After much thought, I put my name forward. My approach won’t change: • Treat every tax dollar as belonging to the people who earned it, not the city. • Apply the rules evenly to everyone — residents, landlords, and businesses alike. No favorites.

• Keep things running smoothly with our small but mighty staff and without unnecessary drama. For years the levy rose 4-10% annually. Since 2024 we’ve worked hard to bring those increases down. Careful control matters in a small city. My children are growing up here, my wife grew up here, as did her parents and grandparents. We’re rooted in our unique community. I’m not looking for a platform — just willing to take on this responsibility with my neighbors’ support.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Willernie has a real advantage: we are not financially

dependent on constant new development to stay healthy. That means we can focus on careful, community-centered progress instead of chasing growth for its own sake. Our city has a character worth preserving. Over the next five years the Council should keep doing what has worked — protecting taxpayers through steady fiscal discipline, applying the rules fairly to everyone, and making sure our aging infrastructure is addressed honestly and without surprises. We should also continue supporting thoughtful redevelopment in our business district while remaining guarded against residential over-development that would change the character

of our unique little town. Prosperity here looks like a place that stays livable, affordable, and well-run for the people who actually call it home. I’ll keep working toward that — the same way I have since 2020.

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. First, our water and sewer systems are getting older. As a

fully developed city we can’t put this off forever. As mayor I’ll face the numbers honestly, prioritize what needs doing, and keep residents informed every step — no surprises and no shifting costs without a clear plan. Second, rising home values have pushed property taxes higher for many families, even though our city has worked hard to keep its own increases low. Much of the pressure comes from outside our control. I’ll keep asking the same question I’ve asked on the council: “Is this a wise use of our taxpayers’ money?” Holding down unnecessary costs and protecting residents will stay front and center. I’m the same neighbor who’s been showing up since 2020. I am approachable, steady, and focused on the work rather than the title. Contact me anytime — or just look for our little redheads and you’ll find me. Email: Info@DeJongMN.com

WILLERNIE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER AT LARGE (ELECT 2)

Toni Karlsson

Q. Why do you want to serve on the City Council? A. Through a position on the Willernie City Council, I will honor

City of residence: Willernie Occupation: IT specialist List three most recent civic involvement roles:

and strengthen our unique city today and for future generations.

• Gentry Academy boys hockey official and proud father of a college hockey player • Naturalized U.S. citizen committed to each of our individual rights and responsibilities to vote • Finnish language teacher at the Finnish Language School of Minnesota

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper? A. Maintain our housing stock and welcome new housing

development proposals through clear policies, processes, and procedures Maintain and strengthen our business community, including welcoming new, successful businesses like we have in recent years

Q. What are two challenges in your city and how might you solve them if elected? A. Aging infrastructure, including fire hydrants. I will work

with the City's public works superintendent, consultant, and emergency services to identify grant opportunities that deliver a high return on our tax-payer investments. Lack of safe walking routes to school. I will work with our representative on the Transportation Advisory Board to the Metropolitan Council, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and Washington County to secure grant funding to thoughtfully extend the recent Safe Routes to School investments made in Mahtomedi into Willernie to provide safe and reliable access for our kids and elders.

CANDIDATES AL LANGSETH, MICHAEL KNUTSON, CONNIE LANGSETH AND HOWARD MOORE DID NOT RESPOND

MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD (ELECT 3)

Allyson Sellwood

City of residence: Mahtomedi Occupation: Strategic Initiatives

Consultant, Hennepin County

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

In recent years, my civic life has focused on kids, starting with my own, ages 8, 6, and 4. I volunteer in their classrooms and with PTO events throughout the year. I'm a fixture at their sports and activities, and I've helped organize and manage our young Zephyr teams. As any parent of kids these ages knows, that's a full calendar all by itself.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. First, excellent classrooms for every student. A decade

ago, Mahtomedi was ranked the best public high school in Minnesota. We're still one of the top districts in the state, but "still very good" isn't the Mahtomedi standard. I'll keep the focus on strong academics and measurable results.

Erica Engelbert-Hensel City of residence: Willernie Occupation: Advanced practice esthetician

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

I have volunteered on the Maple Tree Childcare fundraising committee for the past three years.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. Advocating for our community. While working in Mahtomedi

Second, supporting the teachers who make Mahtomedi special. Mahtomedi teachers know my kids by name, know how they learn, and teach them like it matters. Great districts keep great teachers by respecting their time and backing them in the classroom. Third, honest budgeting. New state mandates have added real, recurring costs without permanent funding to match. I’ve spent my career where state policy meets local budgets. I'll plan honestly, push the state to fund what it requires, and make sure residents always see the full picture.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Long-term financial sustainability. District enrollment is

essentially flat, which means state formula revenue is flat, while the costs (compensation, benefits, new state mandates) continue to grow every year. This is the reality the incoming board will operate in. Mahtomedi voters have said “yes” to levies multiple times in twelve years, nearly tripling what they invest per student. That is extraordinary trust. My job will be to make sure our district keeps deserving it, which at its core is academic, strong schools over the past 7 years, I have had the opportunity to connect with local parents, students, and staff. I am someone you can trust to listen, be transparent, and represent our district. Supporting our teachers. Our incredible teachers are the backbone of our schools, and ensuring their needs are met is crucial for the health of our district. Ensuring every single Mahtomedi student is represented. I believe all of our students are unique individuals who deserve to be celebrated, represented, and respected. My goal is for every single student to graduate from Mahtomedi feeling confident and prepared for their next chapter.

are why families choose Mahtomedi. Protecting that standard is the foundation of everything else, including the district's finances. Most recently, the 2025 referendum passed with specific commitments. I will do my part to help deliver on every one of those commitments, while ensuring the district communicates effectively, transparently, and in plain language so district residents can understand their investment.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I support it and look forward to voting “yes” this November.

The Permanent School Fund is one of Minnesota's oldest school funding sources, and raising its distributions sends more dollars to classrooms without raising taxes. As Mahtomedi faces rising costs, every reliable dollar that doesn't come from local property taxpayers matters. If I earn the chance to serve on the school board, I'll make sure these new dollars, just like every dollar this community invests, come back as results in our classrooms.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Ensuring our district receives enough funding while families

navigate increased living costs.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I believe modifying the permanent school fund will beneficial by offering consistent, dependable funding at no increase to taxpayers.

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 MAHTOMEDI SCHOOL BOARD (ELECT 3)

Jenny Peterson

City of residence: Mahtomedi Occupation: Teacher since 2000 in

Stillwater

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Founder and leader of OHA and Middle School Cribbage Clubs • Founder of Annual Mahtomedi Kids' Triathlon since 2020 • Co-chair to improve outdoor city ice rinks

Ryan Domin

City of residence: Grant Occupation: Enterprise technology executive

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

you

For the past four years, my primary civic involvement has been serving on the Mahtomedi School Board, where I currently serve as treasurer and on the Finance, Facilities and Calendar committees, as well as liaison to the MSHSL. I've also had the privilege of coaching all three of my daughters in youth soccer. Beyond that, most of my remaining civic contribution seems to involve driving kids around Mahtomedi! I'm a third-generation Mahtomedi graduate, and my wife, Jessica, and I are raising three daughters - an eighth, fourth and second-grader - who are all proud fourth-generation Zephyrs.

rk and eliver a Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. My top priorities are academic excellence, responsible stewardship of the community’s resources, and preparing students for a rapidly changing future. f First, we must keep rigorous learning and teaching at the center of the classroom while preserving the breadth of courses chool and opportunities that distinguish Mahtomedi and allow e safe students to find their passion.

public schools and community. 2. Keep classes sizes below the metro average. 3. Continue to offer a variety of pathways for all students in high school to achieve their highest potential after graduating.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Maintaining a healthy, balanced budget with the ever present

wants vs needs, including open enrollment, new constructions, staffing, and unfunded mandates from the Capitol. I would like Mahtomedi to look at policies surrounding screen

Second, we must continue to be responsible stewards of community resources - maintaining strong financial discipline while investing thoughtfully in our schools and facilities. Third, we must build on our strategic plan by keeping students engaged in their education, helping them discover their strengths and interests and preparing well-rounded graduates. As technology changes how we live and work, students need to use new tools responsibly while strengthening enduring skills such as critical thinking, communication, creativity, collaboration and sound judgment. Our goal should remain simple: an exceptional education that prepares every student to thrive in whatever world comes next.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Mahtomedi is a strong school district in a unique community.

Our challenge is to keep moving forward - navigating financial pressures and evolving thoughtfully while protecting what has long made Mahtomedi exceptional. Over the past four years, our Board has worked collaboratively and focused on students rather than politics. We have maintained rigorous academics and broad student opportunities, responsibly managed resources, adopted a community-built strategic plan and earned voter support for investments in safety and security, HVAC, athletic facilities and high school modernization. We need to build on that progress: attracting and retaining excellent educators, upholding the high academic standards

time and technology use for kids, especially K-5.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I don't see a downside to the amendment. It will bring our

district money without taxing residents. The PSTF has bipartisan support with the House passing this 134-0, the Senate 43-24, and the new distributions would use a three-year rolling average to manage dips and gains in the investments. The PSTF has had historic gains, let’s spread it out for who it is intended for, the kids in the classrooms.

that distinguish Mahtomedi, implementing these investments responsibly and preparing students for whatever path they choose. Whether you chose Mahtomedi or have called it home for generations, protecting what makes it special while strengthening it for the future is a responsibility we all share and one that is deeply personal to me.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I support the amendment. It modernizes how Minnesota

manages and distributes earnings from the Permanent School Fund, providing additional funding to public and charter schools without raising individual income or property taxes. Just as importantly, it protects the long-term health of the fund by requiring it to remain a perpetual financial resource and preserve its purchasing power over time, balancing the needs of students today with those of future generations. For a smaller district like Mahtomedi, additional state funding helps us sustain the rigorous academics and broad opportunities our community expects while remaining responsible stewards of local taxpayer dollars. This is a bipartisan, practical approach that puts students ahead of politics, strengthens schools across Minnesota, and maintains responsible long-term management of an important public asset.

WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD (ELECT 4)

Amanda McFarlane

City of residence: Vadnais Heights Occupation: Senior business analyst List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Chairperson Vadnais Heights Park, Recreation and Trails Commission • Ramsey County election judge • Volunteer at White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation’s The Closet

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. My top priorities are supporting all students, improving

communication, and accessible transparency. First, we must support all students. Every student should have what they need to succeed, and every student should need what they have. No student should feel that their needs are too complex for our schools to meet. Second, communication should be proactive and two-way. At

Amy Puschinsky

City of residence: White Bear Lake Occupation: Financial operations analyst List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Chair, Matoska International Elementary PTO (2024–present) chool • Volunteer for Clare Housing supporting staff and tenants in South Minneapolis milies • Volunteer supporting immigrant families through the Bear Solidarity Network

nal t

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. 1. To be a district people move to, and stay, for excellent

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. Community-powered public education: Families and

neficial community members deserve to understand how and why to decisions are made. I want to make district information easier to understand, listen to the people closest to our schools, and build stronger partnerships between the district and the community. Every student belongs: I want every student to feel safe, supported, and connected at school. Students learn best when

times, it feels like families, staff, and community members must pull information from the district. I’d like to explore opportunities such as board listening sessions, like those implemented in Centennial, where stakeholders can share concerns and ideas directly with board members. Third, transparency must be accessible. Posting ten years of financial reports is transparent in theory, but if the information is difficult to understand without specialized knowledge, it isn't truly accessible. We need clear, understandable information so our community can meaningfully participate and hold the district accountable.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. One of the major issues facing our district is building trust with

all our stakeholders, especially community members who do not currently have children in our schools. Our schools are a vital part of the entire community, and everyone has a stake in their success. We need to strengthen communication, create more opportunities for meaningful two-way engagement, and help all community

members understand how strong public schools benefit everyone.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I support the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment to increase

funding from the Permanent School Fund. It would increase perpupil funding at no additional cost to taxpayers while maintaining the fund’s long-term future. The proposed updates align with current trust best practices and would make disbursements more predictable, helping school districts plan responsibly for the future. Importantly, local school districts would retain decision-making authority over how these funds are used. The funding is not tied to state or federal mandates, allowing communities to determine what best supports their students. I also appreciate that this is a truly bipartisan proposal. Every member of the Minnesota House voted in favor, following the recommendations of a nonpartisan task force. This amendment represents a responsible, sustainable way to invest in today’s students while protecting the fund for generations to come.

they know they belong, and that means recognizing that students have different strengths, needs, and ways of learning. Future-focused leadership: I want our district to make thoughtful decisions that serve students today while also considering their impact years from now. “Leave things better for the person who comes after you” is a value I try to bring to everything I do.

feel safe, connected and valued. Addressing these challenges requires transparency, collaboration, and a continued focus on what is best for students.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. I believe one of the greatest opportunities for our district is

funding for the Permanent School Fund. I believe Minnesota should be looking for sustainable, long-term ways to invest in public education, rather than continually asking local taxpayers to do more. As someone who works with budgets and financial analysis, I also believe that additional funding should be accompanied by transparency and thoughtful decision-making. We have a responsibility to make sure resources are used effectively and ultimately benefit students. I also appreciate that the Permanent School Fund is about thinking beyond the immediate moment. That fits with how I approach leadership: we should consider not only what our decisions mean for students today, but what they mean for the students who will walk through our schools five, 10, or even 20 years from now.

improving communication. As a parent and longtime school volunteer, I've seen how deeply families and staff care about our students. Information should be easy to find and understand, and people shouldn't need to be experts in school finance or district policy to stay informed. Strong communication starts with listening. As a board member, I want to listen to the people doing the work every day, including students, families, educators, and staff. Good decisions come from asking questions, looking at the data, and understanding the stories behind the numbers. I also see supporting students' sense of belonging and wellbeing as a critical priority. Students learn best when they

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. As a financial operations analyst I support increasing

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

13B

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD (ELECT 4)

Bob Krominga

City of residence: White Bear Lake Occupation: Sales Representative List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Organized VFW Buddy Poppy Program • Instructed area Cub Scout Packs on American flag etiquette • Participated in Veterans Suicide Awareness Walk

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. 1. To reverse the trend of declining academic proficiency in

reading, mathematics, and science. 2. Changing the current Governance Model to facilitate a more collaborative working relationship between the School Board and District Administration. 3. Ensure that alternative views on policies, agendas, and

Chris Streiff Oji

City of residence: Hugo Occupation: Principal. I’ve served

Minnesota students for over 30 years as a teacher, principal, district administrator and regional director. I’ve sat in classrooms, supported teachers, worked with families, managed budgets, and made difficult decisions when the stakes were high.

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• School Board Member - White Bear Lake Area Schools • Regional director, Collaborative Minnesota Partnerships to Advance Student Success (COMPASS) - Supported 53 school districts and 110 charter schools with systems-level continuous improvement efforts. • Task Force - EngageMN: Statewide alliance working to accelerate student-centered learning in Minnesota.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? Every student, every day A. Children should never have to fit the system—the system

Colleen Berquist City of residence: Hugo Occupation: Employer and

Individual Operations Management – UnitedHealthcare; Real estate agent; small business owner

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

• Candidate for White Bear Lake Area School Board • Community advocate for transparency and public engagement in the White Bear Lake Area School District • Local community member and small business owner

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. My three priorities are academics, transparency, and good

nutrition. I want our schools to challenge every student and give them the support and opportunity to reach their full potential.

Dan Arcand

City of residence: Hugo Occupation: President, Oneka Ridge Golf

Course

List three most recent civic involvement roles:

My commitment to service began with my 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. Several years of my service included the education and development of young Marines. Both in service and after, I partnered with charities to support wounded veterans and individuals battling PTSD. Now, as president of Oneka Ridge Golf Course, I continue supporting our community. We host fundraisers for civic groups. We also proudly provide facilities to school golf teams in our area and host an exceptional youth golf program. I am ready to bring this dedicated leadership to our school board.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. My top three priorities center on delivering an open, safe, and

academically excellent school district: • Elevating core academic standards: We must refocus on instructional excellence. I will prioritize rigorous curriculum standards, comprehensive teacher support, and targeted

budgets can actually reach a level of transparent discussion among the School Board, District, and family stakeholders.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. We have an ever-increasing budget where our resources are

being disproportionately earmarked for fixed costs (facilities) more than classroom instruction. Property Taxes in our district have increased every year, yet our district’s academic proficiency in reading, math, and science has diminished. The high graduation rate, which is touted as a benchmark, is showcasing the wrong metrics. The district is losing dedicated high-quality teachers due to what I believe is a lack of support for their ability to apply consistent disciplinary consequences for students who are repeatedly disruptive and hostile. Students should be held accountable for bullying behavior towards teachers.

should fit the child. Every student, regardless of background, ability, or ZIP code, deserves access to excellent teaching, meaningful support, and the opportunity to reach their full potential. I continually ask: Is this decision making a difference for students? If the answer is no, we need to rethink it. Safe schools: Safety is more than locked doors; it is knowing that you belong. Students learn best when they feel physically safe, emotionally supported, and respected for who they are. Fiscal accountability: Every dollar is a promise to our students, families, and taxpayers—and we have an obligation to keep that promise. I want our community to be able to look at its school district and say, I know where our money is going, I understand why, and I can see the difference it's making.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I’m generally against it. Increasing the amount of money

(from approx. 2-2.5% to 4.5% of fund value) that school districts receive from the Permanent School Fund without raising property taxes would appear to be an easy choice, right? Currently, school districts receive this money based on their enrollment size and the percentage is based on investment income from the designated trust land with a built-in guardrail that the principal is never touched. This amendment would remove that safeguard, and 4.5% of the fund’s value (based on a three-year rolling average) would be distributed regardless of the fund’s performance. My reservations include: The legislature being able to increase the PSF payout with a simple majority vote; legislators using the fund as a political bargaining chip; depletion of the fund as a result of removing guardrails; and school districts not practicing disciplined budgeting reform as a result of increased expected income. proficiency, and I believe we can do better. As a board member, I would support educators with the resources, training, and systems they need to help every student succeed. I want to see our investments in the Science of Reading and instructional alignment translate into measurable gains. That means looking beyond a single state test and using multiple measures of student learning to identify what is working, where gaps remain, and how we continuously improve outcomes for every student.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I fully support this Amendment, which would increase

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Student academic achievement: White Bear Lake students

funding to all Minnesota public, charter, and tribal schools without increasing taxes. This fund, established in 1858, is currently sitting at $2.3 billion and would increase per-pupil funding by replacing an outdated distribution model with a more modern approach while still preserving the fund for future generations. This issue was studied by a nonpartisan group of experts who unanimously recommended this change. This amendment has strong bipartisan support in both the Minnesota House and Senate.

Families deserve transparency. Parents should understand how important decisions are being made, how taxpayer dollars are being spent, and have meaningful opportunities to engage with the district. Finally, nutrition matters. Students need healthy food to fuel both their bodies and their brains. Good nutrition should be part of student success, not an afterthought.

School nutrition also deserves more attention. Healthy meals help students focus, learn, and succeed.

are performing above the state average. Our 97% graduation rate is exceptional—more than 12 percentage points higher than the statewide average. According to the 2025 Minnesota Report Card, White Bear Lake students also perform slightly above statewide averages in both reading and math. We should celebrate our progress, but we should not be satisfied with it. Too many students are still not reaching

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. I believe we need to take a hard look at academics and ask

whether we are doing enough to challenge our students. As a parent, I want my children pushed to learn, think critically, and reach their potential. I am also concerned about the balance between technology and traditional learning. Technology can be a valuable tool, but a screen should never become a substitute for a teacher, a book, a conversation, or hands-on learning. We need to be intentional about screen time and ensure technology is actually improving learning. intervention programs to ensure every student masters essential reading, math, and science skills. • Restoring district transparency: Public trust requires open doors. I will be an accessible board member, clearly communicating budget allocations, and proactively updating policies so parents and taxpayers know how decisions are made. • Ensuring robust school safety: Learning requires security. I will advocate for updated physical measures, mental health resources, and emergency protocols. Crucially, true safety means building a culture where both students and teachers can raise safety or behavioral concerns and trust that they will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed effectively without fear of retaliation. By focusing these items, we can build a stronger district where students thrive.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Our most pressing issue is rebuilding the vital partnership

between our school board and local families. Lately, many parents feel left out of the loop and disconnected from the decisions directly impacting their children’s education. When public boards operate without active community input, it creates an environment where parent voices feel undervalued or overlooked. This disconnect erodes public trust.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I support the amendment. The Permanent School Fund was

established to benefit Minnesota students, and I believe we should use those resources effectively to support students today while protecting the fund for future generations. If approved, the amendment would provide additional funding to schools without increasing individual income or property taxes. I support bringing additional resources into our schools, but additional funding should come with accountability and transparency. As a school board member, I would want to see those resources directed toward priorities that directly benefit students, including strong academics, student safety, and healthy school meals.

As a board member, I will prioritize transparency and active listening. Parents are not bystanders; they are essential partners in our students' success. I will champion policies that actively involve families before major decisions are finalized. Our community deserves a school board that genuinely values, respects, and seeks out parent perspectives at every step.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I support the Minnesota Permanent School Fund

Amendment. It modernizes state trust investments to deliver a needed funding boost to our local classrooms without raising individual income or property taxes. This is a rare, commonsense opportunity to secure unencumbered revenue directly for our students' success. However, a funding boost never negates the school board’s responsibility to use resources wisely. Whether managing state trust payouts or local property taxes, our fundamental duty remains the same: we must be disciplined stewards of public funds. If elected, I will do my part to ensure these new dollars are directed where they are most effective, supporting teachers, raising academic standards, and enhancing school safety. More funding should mean better results, not government bloat.

14B WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

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VOTERS’ GUIDE 2026 WHITE BEAR LAKE SCHOOL BOARD (ELECT 4)

Melissa Roberts

City of residence: White Bear Lake Occupation: Assistant controller List three most recent civic involvement roles: • PACER Center Parent & Community Engagement Participant • Industrial Wastewater & Environmental Stewardship Community Contributor • Public Works Community Support & Volunteer Involvement

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. My top priorities are safety, fiscal responsibility, and policies

that support students, support staff, teachers, and families. First, ensuring the safety of students and staff is foundational. A strong learning environment depends on clear safety protocols, well maintained facilities, and proactive mental health supports. Second, fiscal responsibility and visibility are essential for maintaining trust. With my background in finance and government operations, I am committed to transparent budgeting, responsible for long term planning, and making sure resources directly support classroom needs. Finally, policies

Ryan Vernosh

City of Residence: White Bear Lake Occupation: Elementary School Principal List three most recent civic involvement roles: • Governor’s appointee to the Professional Educator Licensing Board • Coordinating support for immigrant families • Board member for the Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless

Q. What are your top three priorities for the school district? A. My top three priorities are growing literacy achievement,

strengthening inclusion and accessibility, and improving transparent communication practices. First, we must strengthen literacy instruction and intervention by providing teachers with the resources and time to meet the needs of each student, particularly for students with dyslexia and other learning challenges. We must do this while ensuring every student has the opportunity to be themselves and feel a sense of belonging in school. We know that students thrive when

must work for both students and parents. As a parent with two children in the district, I understand the importance of clear communication, consistent expectations, and meaningful family engagement. I want to strengthen accessibility of information and ensure district policies reflect the needs of our community.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. Our district is facing several significant challenges that

require thoughtful, collaborative solutions. Safety remains a major concern, both in terms of physical security and the growing need for mental health resources. Students and staff must feel supported and protected in order to thrive. Additionally, fiscal pressures continue to shape how we prioritize programs and staffing. Rising costs, aging facilities, and evolving educational needs demand careful financial planning and transparency. Another major issue is ensuring policies keep pace with the needs of families. As a parent with two students currently enrolled, I hear directly from families about the need for clear communication, consistent expectations, and meaningful opportunities to engage with the district. Finally, we must continue addressing achievement gaps and ensuring all students and teachers have access to high quality instruction and support. These issues are they are safe, supported, and valued for who they are. Finally, I believe the district must be intentional and transparent in its communication with families, staff, and the community— not only seeking feedback for major decisions, but clearly explaining how that feedback was used and, when it was not, why.

Q. What do you see as the major issue(s) facing your school district? A. There are three major issues facing our district: literacy

achievement, funding and budget challenges, and stagnant enrollment. Reading is the gateway to future opportunities. While our district serves most students well, we must strengthen support for students with dyslexia and other learning challenges to ensure every child has the opportunity to become a successful reader with access to any pathway they choose after graduation. School funding has not kept pace with inflation, and uncertainty around federal funding makes sustaining important programs more challenging. This increases the need to ensure every dollar is focused on student support and outcomes. Enrollment remains below pre-pandemic levels, with declining birth rates across the metro creating additional long-term challenges. With fewer students in our

interconnected and require strong leadership and community partnership.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. The Permanent School Fund plays an important role in

supporting public education, and increasing its funding through a constitutional amendment is a significant decision. In general, I support efforts that strengthen longterm, stable funding for schools, especially when they promote transparency and accountability. Any amendment that increases investment in the Permanent School Fund should ensure that dollars are managed responsibly, distributed equitably, and used in ways that directly benefit students and teachers in the classroom. As someone with a background in finance, I believe it is essential that any changes include clear oversight, measurable outcomes, and protections to ensure funds are used efficiently. Minnesota’s students deserve reliable funding that supports academic success, safe learning environments, and modern educational resources. If structured well, increased funding for the Permanent School Fund can help achieve those goals.

district, we need to better understand why families choose White Bear Lake Area Schools and why some choose other options.

Q. What is your opinion on the Minnesota Constitutional Amendment increasing the funding for the Permanent School Fund? A. I support the proposed Minnesota Constitutional

Amendment increasing disbursements from the Permanent School Fund because it strengthens funding for public education while preserving the long-term purpose and integrity of the fund. This bipartisan increase in funding does not raise taxes or change the purpose of the trust. Instead, it updates how the existing fund is managed to better align with modern trust and endowment management practices. This approach allows Minnesota to responsibly increase the benefits available to students today while protecting the fund’s long-term value for future generations. I recognize that this amendment will not solve all of Minnesota’s public school funding challenges, but it is a meaningful step toward providing schools with additional support.

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY COUNCIL NOTES

15B

CHANGE WBL SCHOOL BOARD WBL

BERQUIST Dan ARCAND Melissa ROBERTS Bob KROMINGA

Colleen

48.7%

71.0%

60.4%

READING Proficiency

52.7%

68.7%

62.1%

SCIENCE Proficiency

24.2%

41.3%

33.7%

ATTENDANCE

75.4%

86.5%

79.2%

Source: Minnesota Department of Education Report Card

ELECT

Total Revenue From YOUR Taxes

For WBL SCHOOL BOARD

280 VENUE IN 6,351, E

(Property, State and Federal)

BARK VOTE

to Restore Checks & Balances

$14

8,802

LR TOTA

2 89,43 $199,9 37%

CR E A

SE +

ENROLLMENT DECREA SE 4%

8,413

Source: 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report Paid for by White Bear Lake Parents Alliance, PO Box 108, Lindstrom, MN 55045

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Mahtomedi Centennial

MATH Proficiency

2025

When opposition to an administrative adjustment is received, the procedure requires city staff to refer the application to the Planning Commission and council for review as a standard variance application. Both the Planning Commission and city staff found that the applicant demonstrated a practical difficulty with meeting the city’s zoning regulations and recommended approval. • Mayor Mary Nicklawske invites residents to attend the next Coffee with the Mayor event at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Lakewood Hills Park. “It’s a great way for people to meet their neighbors and get some questions answered and discuss things in our city,” she said.

2020

• Property owners at 4548 Highway 61 and 3740 Highland Ave. have received approval for setback variances. Mike and Bobbi Belz requested an 8-foot variance from the required 112-foot lakeside average setback as measured from the ordinary high water level to construct a 300-square-foot attached garage under the deck. Both the Planning Commission and city staff found that the applicants demonstrated a practical difficulty with meeting the city’s zoning regulations as required by Minnesota Statute 462.357, Subd. 6, and recommended approval. Jeffrey Lair requested a 4-foot variance from the required 5-foot driveway setback to expand his existing driveway and pave to the garage located in the rear of his property. Lair first applied for an administrative adjustment for a reduced setback, but a neighbor to the north submitted a written comment opposing the reduction in setback.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

16B WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

SEPTEMBER 16, 2026

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17TH ANNUAL

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