Issuu

Wedding show rescheduled to Saturday, March 21

Lions Club’s ‘signature event’ returns with sci-fi twist

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

After a four-year hiatus, the White Bear Lake Lions Club is bringing back a long-standing community tradition with its 76th annual show, set for March 26-28 at White Bear Lake Area High School’s Original Theater (5045 Division Ave.).

The first White Bear Lake Lions Club Show was held in 1946, just

one year after the club was established, and raised money to light Price Field behind Central Middle School. For the first five years or so, it was a minstrel show, but it quickly evolved into a different kind of show using scripts written by various Lions members.

“We don't use any professional scripts. They are written at home here, and we try to do things that are topical to this area,” explained Lion Mike Machus, who wrote this

year’s script along with about 15 others. “All of our activities and fundraising events go back to the community somehow, so that was the initial reason to put a show together. And our club is notorious for having a bunch of hams in the club.”

The show has been performed annually except for 1950, when for some mysterious reason, it was not

Local family ‘makes

the ordinary a little bit

fun’

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

This is your reminder to get your guess in for the 2026 White Bear Lake Ice Out Contest. The Neuhaus family in White Bear Lake found out about the contest three years ago after reading the White Bear Press. Although they have guessed the dates for the past three years, this year they decided to formally enter the contest.

“We like to wager on stuff; we like to play games; we like to make the ordinary a little bit fun,” Stephanie Neuhaus said. “This year I decided I was actually going to throw all the entries in and bring them over there instead of just sticking it on the refrigerator.”

Every Friday night, the family hosts a pizza and game night. “Whoever is around can come and hang out,” Stephanie explained. The family also always participates in March Madness.

“It's kind of boring this time of year, and so I was just like, ‘Let’s do a little competition here. Let's see who can come up with the closest date.’ It's not a big deal, but it's just kind of another layer of having some fun.”

To make the best-informed guess, they all review the dates from previous ice outs. Their guesses are as follows:

• Stephanie’s daughter Alli Bloom chose April 4

• Levi Bloom, Alli’s husband, chose April 10

• Max Neuhaus, Stephanie’s son, chose April 17

• Stephanie chose April 19

• Noah Neuhaus, Stephanie’s son, chose April 20

• Brian Neuhaus, Stephanie’s husband, chose April 25

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Lela Peterson, Dave Tessmer, Kate Hunt, Scott Zieman and Ivy Hunt play members of the crew in the upcoming satirical mashup of Star Wars and Star Trek.

Stoss receives Republican endorsement for house seat

Sebastian Stoss has received the Republican endorsement for House District 36A. According to a press release, Stoss said he is committed to lowering taxes, protecting schools from radical agendas, securing state borders

MARCH 18, 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD SHELF DISTRIBUTION

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, March 21 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: 651-246-3638 or cityvadnaisheights.com/ foodshelf

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, March 21

Where: Mahtomedi Middle School gym

Details: Teams of two compete in single-elimination bracket format, with prizes for top 3 teams. Ages 14+; registration information online. Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo. com

INDOOR GARAGE SALE

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, March 21

Where: St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake

Details: Household items, toys, books, floral arrangements, home décor, artwork and food for sale.

Contact: 651-777-1107

JAZZY FUNDRAISER FOR THE WBLAHS BLACK STUDENT UNION

When: 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 21

Where: Private home on Bald

CALENDAR BRIEFS

Eagle Lake, White Bear Township

Details: House concert featuring student performers and special guest artists including Mari Harris and a jazz quartet of members of the WBUCC Big Band. Also silent auction and refreshments Donations support the Black Student Union and their upcoming tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. For ticket information, contact pollyflutist@gmail.com.

ST PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 22

Where: Sucker Creek, 25 County Road F, Vadnais Heights Details: Hike is approx. 5 miles. Contact: stpaulhike.com

TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE ARMORY When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, March 24

Where: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 4th St.

Details: Local-themed trivia, drink specials, and prizes for top 3 teams (up to 6 people). Register online. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

TRUTH, TRUST & THE BALLOT BOX: UNDERSTANDING ELECTION SECURITY

When: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Tuesday, March 24

Where: Ramsey County LibraryRoseville, 2180 N. Hamline Ave.

Details: Join in a converstation with election security experts on how the state and local

Police department to host egg hunt

The White Bear Lake Police Department will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt at 1 and 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at Podvin Park, 1700 Ninth Street. Each session will be limited to 60 children ages 2-10. To register, visit https://tinyurl. com/4ajes2sy. For questions, contact Megan Christensen at mchristensen@whitebearlakemn. gov or 651-429-8559.

governments ensure safe and secure elections. Sponsored by area chapters of the League of Women Voters.

SOCIAL SECURITY: PREPARING FOR RETIREMENT

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 26

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

Details: Learn when to apply, how to maximize your benefits, and how it may affect a spouse. Contact: communityservices. isd624.org/adults-seniors/ programs

WHITE BEAR LAKE LIONS 76TH ANNUAL SHOW: STAR TREKED

When: 7 p.m. Thursday, March 26 and Friday, March 27; 2 & 7 p.m. Saturday, March 28

Where: WBLAHS Theater, 5045 Division Ave.

Details: Annual spring fundraiser features dancing, singing, costumes and scripts written and performed by local Lions members. Tickets available through Lions members or online.

Contact: whitebearlions.org/ annual-lions-club-show

THANK GOODNESS ITS FOOD

When: 11:15 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 27

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

Details: Lunch catered by Donatelli's. Register by March 23. Contact: communityservices. isd624.org/adults-seniors/ programs

Join PAI for book release event

Come and hear authors from Phoenix Alternatives Inc. (PAI) read their latest published works at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, at the White Bear Center for the Arts. The event is presented in partnership with Cow Tipping Press, which supported the authors in the creative writing process.

Helping out

Our newspaper offices receive some pretty interesting calls. Readers call us to ask where the location of a concert or play is, to report concerns not being addressed by a landlord or employer, or where to find help for medical issues or a home remodel. Most of the time these calls are in response to something we have covered in the paper. Sometimes the questions are totally unrealted to anything we have published and readers are simply looking for resources in the community and figure the people at the local paper would know. Today in a world where AI is giving results to most searches, it can be difficult to get to the bottom of some of these questions, and a real person on the phone is helpful. We try to help when we can, giving readers information about how to get in touch with local organizations, city offices or their legislators. When we get calls about local businesses, our staff may guide readers toward a current phone number or calling the manager of the business to help connect, or the Attorney General or Better Business Bureau. Occasionally people engaging in dialogue through letters to the editor have asked if we could put them directly in touch with each other. Recently a reader called our news staff because they wanted to assist another reader with a problem they had shared in a letter to the editor, which was pretty cool.

Sunshine Week, subscriptions

We all believe we have a right to know about the actions of our local villages, cities, townships and government bodies that affect their lives. Sunshine Week promotes transparency and open government, turning the light up regarding the public’s right to know. Most of us have felt this pretty close to home with decisions made by cities and school boards for building projects. These decisions need to be made in the open so the public is aware of how it will affect their daily life and finances. Open meeting laws and public notices are key tools to ensure our local governments communicate to residents.

Often our journalists are some of the only ones in the room covering the meetings. Each week our team of writers, editors and reporters cover stories firsthand by attending city council meetings, planning meetings and school board meetings, or listening to the recording so that readers don't have to. Imagine the time it would take to attend or watch local government meetings. We cover it and bring you a summary.

Twice a year we look to our readers to support the paper with a subscription. Many of you have asked why you would purchase a subscription when you can receive the paper for free? The simple answer is that producing the highest quality local news and information every week isn’t free, it’s a major investment and we need your support. With massive postal rate increases in the past few years and competition for local advertising dollars, we need to grow our subscriptions. Currently fewer than 15% of our readers pay for a subscription, and our goal is to grow subscriptions to 30%.

Every story in our paper takes a considerable amount of energy to produce. There are interviews, follow-up calls and photos, followed by the task of writing it in a way that is easy for the reader to digest. Then layout, proofing and editing it before it gets sent to be printed and finally distributed to your home or inbox.

If you have read even one story in the past year that informed you, entertained you, helped you make a decision, or helped you to know when a topic was brewing that could be important, I am personally asking for you to become a subscriber. A one-year subscription doesn't even cost $1 per week. We hope you see that as a great value. When you subscribe, you also receive unlimited access to our digital content and access to our e-edition. Thank you for showing your support with a subscription.

Publications.

OPINION

People are requesting records more than ever

More Americans are filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests than ever, topping 1.5 million in 2024 and on track for another record in 2025. This will mark the third consecutive year that FOIA requests have reached seven figures. But more requests does not necessarily equal more access to public government information.

Sunshine Week Anna Massoglia

In an age when trust in government is at an alltime low, the surge in FOIA requests has been driven in part by rising public interest in government accountability. The growth has also been impacted by an increase in requests by advocacy groups and corporations, as well as technology making it easier for Americans to find out information about what’s going on in their government.

As the volume of records requests has swelled, so has the portion of those requests that are rejected or otherwise incomplete. A growing number of requests considered processed is driven by administrative closures such as rejections for technicalities or claims of “no responsive records” rather than the release of meaningful information. The likelihood of a requester receiving everything they asked for is lower than ever.

Even when the government does release records, information is increasingly obscured. Of the requests that actually made it to

Limited to 350 words.

Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification.

• Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

• Letter writers are limited to six letters per year and at least

a substantive review last year, the majority were only partially released, often heavily redacted under broad exemptions. During the 2024 fiscal year, which is the most recent available, just 12.1% of processed FOIA requests were fully granted.

Despite the increased processing volume, the backlog of unresolved cases has swelled as more requests continue to flood the system.

The Department of Homeland Security alone accounted for more than half of all FOIA requests received, processed and appealed in most recent years.

Over the past decade since the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016 was signed into law, agencies have tried a wide range of tactics to address the flood of requests. This has ranged from formalizing plans to reduce backlog and proactively posting commonly requested information to attempts to push back on disclosure.

As a part of these efforts, agencies have also ramped up the number of "still interested" letters sent to requesters. They often close cases just days later due to lack of response.

Reliance on exemptions to justify request rejections, redactions and partial fulfillment has grown along with the volume. Categories once used narrowly are now often the first response. The refusal to even acknowledge whether records exist increasingly undercuts the FOIA process before it even begins.

Modern technology has presented some opportunities to alleviate the burdens on agencies. They are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence to help with redactions and increase processing speed to

chip away at the backlog, though the Chief Records Officer at the National Archives and Records Administration has warned AI is no substitute for a “professional’s judgement on application of exemptions and foreseeable harm.” On the flip side, AI and automation have also compounded the issue by contributing to the influx of requests.

State and local public records processes often face even more burdens. Often, due to short staffing, the individuals subject to records requests are also responsible for the decision of whether to release them.

While federal law mandates a 20-business-day response window, state-level sunshine rules vary from a few days to about a month. The actual time it takes for a request to be fulfilled, however, can be much longer, spanning hundreds of days or even years — leaving information locked away long after it would be most valuable to the public who rely on it.

Governments can only be held accountable when we know what’s happening inside of them.

That's what freedom of information laws were built to prevent and right now, they’re losing ground.

Sunshine Week is an annual celebration of transparency and an opportunity to cherish the right all Americans share to access government information.

Together, we can hold power to account and shine a light on government transparency.

Anna Massoglia is an investigative journalist who serves as editor of MuckRock.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

four weeks must lapse between publication. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters. Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published.

Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. Submissions containing facts not previously published in the Press must be accompanied by factual verification.

• All letters are subject to editing. Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

Carter Johnson is Publisher of Press

Publisher’s View

Carter Johnson

Axis of power

Minnesota prides itself on a strong philanthropic network of foundations and nonprofits. Yet behind the language of generosity lies a system that can concentrate wealth and political influence while shifting costs onto taxpayers.

Foundations are not created solely out of altruism. When wealthy individuals or corporations donate assets, they receive substantial tax advantages. Depending on income level and the type of asset contributed, each dollar donated can reduce public revenue by roughly 40 to 70 cents.

For taxpayers—especially those with low or middle incomes—this raises an important question: is the tradeoff worth it? When assets move into foundations or tax-exempt nonprofits, the public loses part of the tax base that supports schools, infrastructure and other essential services. In some cases, valuable property is removed from local tax rolls entirely.

At the same time, philanthropic funds are controlled by private boards that are not subject to the same transparency requirements as public institutions. Over time, large pools of publicly subsidized capital accumulate under private governance rather than democratic oversight.

Influence within Minnesota’s charitable sector is often concentrated. A relatively small group of individuals frequently serves on multiple nonprofit and foundation boards, advisory committees and policy initiatives. This concentration raises an obvious concern: how much influence over public priorities should rest with such a small network of civic actors?

Oversight is limited. Federal law requires private foundations to distribute only 5

percent of their assets annually. Restrictions meant to protect taxpayers are ignored. Enforcement is largely complaint-driven, and much of the sector’s activity remains difficult for the public to see.

In Minnesota, the Attorney General’s Office is responsible for monitoring the charitable sector. Yet philanthropic networks also play a significant role in the state’s political ecosystem, raising legitimate questions about whether oversight is sufficiently independent and robust.

These dynamics shift resources away from democratically controlled budgets toward privately governed institutions, concentrating wealth and civic influence while leaving lowand middle-income taxpayers to shoulder more of the burden.

Democracy requires transparency in institutions that shape public priorities. Stronger reporting requirements, clearer data on tax-exempt property, and limits on overlapping board service would help ensure the charitable sector truly serves the common good.

Bonnie Balach White Bear Lake

Response to recent letters

This is in response to the letters from Jim Berg and George Kimball in the March 11 edition.

To Mr. Berg, who defines the Dunkirk-Kruger Effect “suffered” by people who hate Donald J. Trump. First, I do not hate him, and I do not wish him nor his family any ill-will. I do, however, believe he is the perfect example of someone who has a limited knowledge or competence in a specific domain and greatly overestimates his own expertise, and

due to a lack of self-awareness he cannot recognize his own incompetence. As evidence, I offer his tariff policies which are hurting businesses and citizens, his heavy-handed immigration policy which has not focused on “the worst of the worst” and is also hurting our economy and has resulted in the deaths of American citizens, and his decision to go to war with Iran with no plan … resulting in higher gas prices and billions spent daily on what could be our next “forever war.” He’s going to bankrupt the U.S. like he did his businesses. These are but a few examples of his incompetence to lead our country, by the way.

And, to Mr. Kimball, who addresses Trump’s ill-fated decision to wage war with Iran and calls him dangerous … I agree with every word you wrote. And, I would like to add that the Republicans who are in lock-step with him are complicit in his “crimes” against our allies and our country.

Letter writer doesn't like Trump

I am responding to a letter from George Kimball, “No New Wars.” I have read many of his letters in this paper and the common thread is that he doesn't like Trump. He then goes on to say that other nations think that we are an evil empire with a history of imperialism, colonization, genocide and slavery. Apparently, he hates America.

He then goes on to spew a litany of far-left nonsense comparing Trump to every horrible leader in the world and whines about the price of gas going up. Maybe George should be happy that he has the right

White Bear Lake Area

to voice his opinions in the only true democracy in the world that won't punish you for that. Maybe you should turn off CNN or MSNOW and go outside and enjoy your day. Better yet, read the letter from Jim Berg printed the same day as the one you wrote. He summed it up better than I can.

reveal themselves to be unfit to serve.

The recent reports of the White Bear Lake City Council discussions, deliberations and action taken in regard to the recent actions of federal law enforcement activities in the metropolitan Minneapolis-St. Paul area raises serious concerns about the direction and leadership of this council.

Bear Lake

John Cundy White

Airing dirty laundry

I was disappointed to see in the Press that the new mayor and Kevin Edberg decided to give a one-sided rendition of the fire services contract dispute. I was under the impression that as it was in litigation, we were not supposed to discuss it in public.

What’s also missing from this article is that on two different occasions, the mayor was invited to meet with White Bear Township. The invitations were extended by Chair Ed Prudhon and myself. We had hoped meeting with the new mayor would be a new opportunity to work things out, as the previous mayor said there would be no negotiations. I’d even gone out and purchased fancy French bakery items for the meeting. But the mayor was a no-show.

We purchase a service; we are not a partner in the cost overruns of the new building.

This dispute isn’t about being unwilling, it’s about playing fair.

Beth Artner

White Bear Township Board Supervisor

Unfit to serve

Wow! That didn't take long! Three months into their terms, Mayor Mary Nicklawske and Council Member Ellen Gurrola

On opening the discussion of this issue (White Bear Press, Feb. 4) Nicklawske lamented that "it has been deeply frustrating to watch outside forces come into the community and disrupt the peace and trust of the White Bear Lake community." Does she not know that Homeland Security law enforcement officers have been serving the nation, and Minnesota, for decades? They live here, some locally. They are part of the community. They are enforcing federal law enacted by our elected national lawmakers. We — none of us — can pick and choose which laws we support and which laws we ignore or defy. The case has not been made that federal law enforcement agents have disrupted the peace in White Bear Lake. Chief Hager's reports to the council (Press, Feb. 4 and Feb. 18) show a small handful of incidents only. A report in the Press ("ICE activity disrupts," Jan. 7) lists three apparent effects but fails to show disruption of businesses.

It's unclear how many individuals residing in White Bear Lake have been removed by ICE enforcement officers, but hysteria has been stoked. Witness Gurrola's report (Press, Feb. 18) that she won't permit her husband to drive their children around because he may be pulled over because of the color of his skin. I don't

SEE MORE LETTERS, PAGE 8

Nicola Hyser Vadnais Heights

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• Officers mediated a civil dispute over a vehicle sale in the 4000 block of Highway 61 March 4.

• A driver was cited for failure to obey a traffic signal following a two-vehicle accident near the intersection of Highways 96 and I-35E March 4.

• Criminal damage to property was reported at the White Bear Press March 4.

• A male was trespassed from a Buerkle Road business March 4 after trying to sell candy bars in the parking lot and refusing to leave when asked.

• Harassment was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue March 4.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 1700 block of County Road E March 4.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 900 block of Wildwood Road March 5.

• Identity theft was reported in the 1700 block of Linden Cove March 5.

• A Hugo man was located on Hoffman Road and arrested on an outstanding warrant March 5.

• Dogs-at-large in the 1800 block of County Road F March 5 were returned to their owner.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road March 6.

• Fraud was investigated March 6 in the 4700 block of Peggy Lane.

• An animal complaint in the 3400 block of White Bear Avenue was responded to March 6.

• A Welch man was arrested and a search warrant executed following a traffic stop where he was suspected of operating a vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance March 6.

• Officers responded to a report of ding-dong-ditching in the 2400 block of Mayfair Avenue March 6.

• Disorderly conduct was reported March 7 in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway.

A pet owner was cited following a report of a dogat-large in the 1900 block of Nicholas Court March 7.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. March 7.

• Officers mediated a verbal dispute in the 2500 block of County Road F March 8.

• A suspect has been identified following a report of criminal damage to property and theft in the 1300 block of Highway 96 March 8.

• A Hastings man who was a suspect in a theft incident in Maplewood was arrested for fleeing police in a motor vehicle after he was pulled over on White Bear Avenue March 9.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for DWI on Hillside Road following a driving complaint March 9. Theft was reported near the 4700 block of Banning Avenue March 9.

• Damage to property was reported in the 3700 block of Bellaire Avenue March 9.

• Officers responded to a barking dog complaint in the 2400 block of Jansen Avenue March 9.

• Officers responded to a protection order violation in the 2500 block of Oak Drive March 9.

• Officers responded to a noncriminal dispute in the 2100 block of Fourth Street March 9.

• Disorderly individuals were trespassed from businesses March 9 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road and the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 3500 block of Rooney Place March 9.

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 3300 block of Willow Avenue March 9.

• A Fifth Street resident was advised about her aggressive dog March 11.

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:

Birchwood

Village

• Birchwood Avenue residents reported a scam attempt on Feb. 18, in which unknown people phoned claiming to be law enforcement officers threatening arrest. No money or information was given.

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies received an email Feb. 20 from a Lake Avenue address that included the video of a person trespassing.

• In the Case of the Canine Calling Card, deputies were dispatched to a Lake Avenue address on Feb. 23 regarding a potential trespassing incident. When speaking with the complainant, deputies learned that the neighbor’s dog had been defecating on their property as part of an ongoing issue.

• Birchwood Lane residents on Feb. 26 reported receiving a scam phone call. The complainants did not give out any credit card information.

Dellwood

• Deputies on patrol on Dellwood Avenue and Dellwood Road N. conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed Feb. 27 and issued a written warning to the driver.

Grant

• A motorist was cited for semaphore violation Feb. 15 on 75th Street N. and Hilton Trail N. A second

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• Deputies responded Feb. 8 to a report of a large, aggressive German shepherd in the 300 block of Walker Drive. Deputies were unable to locate the dog. Information was provided to an animal control officer.

• A 70-year-old man from Gordon, Wisconsin, reported Feb. 9 that someone stole his Toyota 4Runner in the 400 block of Vadnais Road. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies issued a theft citation Feb. 9 to a 21-year-old St. Paul woman after she was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

• Deputies arrested a 28-year-old woman from Waverly Feb. 9 for theft and an active warrant after she was caught attempting to steal merchandise from a store in the 800 block of County Road E East.

• Deputies issued a citation for assault and disorderly conduct Feb. 11 to a 23-year-old man from Woodbury after he tackled a co-worker to the ground in the 80 block of Vadnais Boulevard East, injuring the coworker’s tailbone.

• Deputies responded Feb. 12 to a report of a 41-year-old man not conscious and not breathing in the 300 block of Jay Way. Deputies assisted with care until medics arrived and documented the confirmation of his death.

• Deputies responded Feb. 13 to a report of suspicious activity in the 600 block of Belland Avenue and issued a domestic assault citation to a 30-year-old woman after she assaulted her mother.

• Deputies issued a trespass notice and theft citation Feb. 13 to a 40-year-old man from Little Canada after he was caught by

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Police activity at MNJ Tobacco

On Thursday, March 6, there was a police presence at MNJ Tobacco, located at 4074

White Bear Ave. in White Bear Lake.

employees at a business in the 900 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise. Deputies issued trespass notices and theft citations Feb. 13 to a 17-year-old male from St. Paul and a 16-year-old after they were caught attempting to leave a store in the 800 block of County Road E East without paying for merchandise.

White Bear Township

• A 46-year-old man who works for T-Mobile was inspecting cell phone towers Feb. 9 in the 4100 block of Hoffman Road and reported that several copper wire cables were cut and stolen. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies responded Feb. 10 to a crash near the intersection of Centerville Road and East Oaks Road between a Buick Enclave and a Mercedes Benz E, assisted with the exchange of insurance information and cleared the scene.

• Deputies issued a theft citation Feb. 11 to a 57-year-old man from Eden Prairie after he was caught by employees at a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive filing a plastic bag with merchandise and attempting to leave the store without paying.

• A 33-year-old woman from Little Canada in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive reported Feb. 11 finding a small baggie containing white power on the floor. The baggie was recovered. The incident is under investigation.

• An 81-year-old woman in the 4500 block of Margaret Street reported Feb. 12 that someone online convinced her to purchase and mail them gift cards for Apple and Best Buy. The incident is under investigation. Deputies responded Feb. 13 to reports of shots fired in the 3900 block of White Bear Parkway and located one spent casing and a dead possum. The incident is under investigation.

White Bear Lake Police Chief Dale Hager said, “The case is still under investigation, and no information can be released at this time.” Hager confirmed that no arrests were made at the business as a result of the incident and there were no injuries.

The City Council imposed a $1,000 administrative fine and a seven-day suspension of the business’s tobacco license back in November 2025. (See “White Bear Lake City Council directs staff to impose administrative fine, suspension,” White Bear Press, Dec. 3, 2025.)

motorist was cited for blowing through a red light on Feb. 18 in the 7000 block of Manning Avenue N. Deputies initiated a citizen assist for a male walking on the roadway at 7:05 a.m. Feb. 20 on 75th Street and Manning Avenue N. The male was escorted to the other side of the road and asked to walk on the sidewalk.

• Four tires were reported dumped at the side of the road in the 9000 block of Jeffrey Blvd. N. on Feb. 22.

Mahtomedi

• Wood Street residents on Feb. 17 reported that their child had been receiving harassing messages via social media.

Residents in the 1000 block of Dunbar Way turned in a scam report on Feb.17, after a person phoned claiming to be from the WCSO.

• Ideal Avenue residents on Feb. 17 reported money taken fraudulently from their account.

• On Feb. 18, Edgecumbe Drive residents offered deputies the services of their German shepherd. Deputies on routine patrol at 1:47 a.m. Feb. 19 pulled a vehicle over on Century Avenue and Woodland Drive for lack of functioning brake lights and cited the driver for equipment violation. Another motorist was cited for speeding at 6:02 p.m. Feb. 19 on Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N. Deputies pulled a third driver over Feb. 20 on Long Lake Road and Echo Lake Avenue and issued a citation for speeding and failure to provide proof of insurance. Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a fourth motorist Feb. 21 on Warner Avenue N. and Wood Street and issued

Hager says the White Bear Police Department was the only responding agency.

citation for speeding. The fifth motorist was cited on Wildwood Road and Birchwood Road on the same day for the same offense.

• After the Mahtomedi public works department reported a semi-truck stuck in the turn lane at Long Lake Road and Century Avenue at 7:08 a.m. Feb. 19, deputies arrived to assist with flashing lights and traffic control.

• A suspicious vehicle reported Feb. 20 on Birch Street and Park Avenue with its doors open for a long time turned out to belong to people removing trash.

• Residents on 60th Street N. on Feb. 21 reported juveniles for continuously tearing down their flagpoles.

Pine Springs

• A westbound motorist was cited for speeding at 2:30 a.m. Feb. 17 on Highway 36 at the northbound ramp to I-694.

• Deputies conducted a traffic stop at 8:40 p.m. Feb. 19 on Hilton Trail N. and 62nd Street N. on a vehicle with a missing headlight and taillight before citing the driver for driving after suspension and for failure to provide proof of insurance.

• A heavily tinted vehicle was pulled over at 11:23 p.m. Feb. 20 on Hilton Trail and 62nd Street N. for expired registration. Its driver was issued a written warning for heavy side window and windshield tint.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

3 steps to simplify tax prep so you can file on time

Spring is noted for the sense of rejuvenation it inspires when temperatures warm up and flowers begin to bloom. But in the United States, the onset of spring is followed shortly thereafter by tax season, which typically generates entirely different feelings than the first sight of spring blooms.

The deadline to file tax returns in the U.S. in 2026 is Wednesday, April 15. With that deadline looming, now is a good time to these three basic tax preparation tips, from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The deadline to file tax returns in the U.S. in 2026 is Wednesday, April 15. With that deadline looming, now is a good time to consider these three basic tax preparation tips, from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

1. Access your IRS account. Individuals can access or create their IRS account at irs. gov/account. That ensures taxpayers have the latest information about their federal tax account and enables them to see information about their most recently filed return. A visit to the website also allows individuals to make payments and apply for payment plans, among other options.

2. Organize your tax records. The IRS urges taxpayers to wait to file their returns until they have all of their records, including:

- Forms W-2 from employer(s)

- Forms W-2 from employer(s) 1099 from banks, issuing agencies and others payers, including unemployment compensation, dividends, pension, annuity or retirement plan distributions

- Forms 1099 from banks, issuing agencies and others payers, including unemployment compensation, dividends, pension, annuity or retirement plan distributions

- Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2, or other income statement if you worked in the gig economy

tokens (NFTs)

- Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement, to reconcile advance payments or claim Premium Tax Credits for 2022

- Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement, to reconcile advance payments or claim Premium Tax Credits for 2022 Marketplace coverage

Marketplace coverage

- IRS or other agency letters

CP01A Notice with your new Identity Protection PIN

- CP01A Notice with your new Identity Protection PIN

3. Check your Individual Tax Identification Number. The IRS notes that an ITIN only requires renewal if it has expired and is needed on a federal tax return. An expired ITIN can delay the processing of a return, which in turn can delay tax credits and refunds.

- Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2, or other income statement if you worked in the gig economy

- For 1099-INT if you were paid interest

- Other income documents and records of digital asset transactions, including convertible virtual currency and cryptocurrency, stablecoins and non-fungible

Taxpayers filing with the help of a licensed tax professional are urged to contact that individual to inquire about any additional information they may need to file a return on time. Make such an inquiry well in advance of the deadline to file so you have sufficient time to gather all of the necessary documentation. More information about filing taxes is available at irs.gov.

LETTERS

TO THE EDITOR CONTINUED

presume to know them, and respect them, but if there is no issue, he won't be stopped. Gurrola's edict to her family isn't rational thinking. It's hysteria, as is Nicklawske's report of an email she received (Press, Mar. 4) that's irrefutable evidence, detailing similar fear. Hysterical.

Lastly, Nicklawske states (Press, March 4) that "the federal government isn't following the Constitution" — a blatantly irresponsible statement and way above her pay grade.

Nicklawske and Gurrola are foolish, manipulative individuals who don't deserve your respect, and should resign at once. Throw in (or out) Council Members West and Edberg who support this idiocy. They all seek to divide this fine community, not strengthen it.

Sincere thanks to Council Members Walsh and Engstran, City Manager Crawford, City Attorney Anderson and Chief Hager for being the adults in the room, demonstrating sound judgment, and truly working for the betterment of White Bear Lake.

Randall Johnson White Bear Lake

Thanks for explanation

I am writing in response to Jim Berg’s March 11 letter to the editor in which he explains the Dunning-Kruger Effect. In short, he states “the Dunning-Kruger Effect is a cognitive bias in which people with limited knowledge or competence in a specific domain greatly overestimate their own expertise.”

Thank you, Jim, for clearly explaining President Trump’s impairment. All of this talk about his age, dementia, strokes, etc. does not entirely explain his erratic and inept behavior. As you suggest, applying the Dunning-Kruger Effect to the President’s arrogance, exaggerations and claims that “nobody knows (fill in the blank) better than I do” finally make perfect sense.

So to current critics and to future generations (who will undoubtedly judge President Trump harshly), I ask you to look upon his cognitive impairment with pity rather than hatred. After all, this is a man who does not recognize his own incompetence.

Renee McCabe White Bear Lake

Whoever guesses the closest date will win a water-themed basket from Stephanie, including goodies like Swedish Fish and gummy worms. “If some-

The deadline to enter this year’s contest is at noon on Thursday, March 26. For more information, or to enter, visit https://www.presspubs.com/site/forms/contest/ register_to_win/white_bear_lake_ice_out_contest.

Summer Camp Directory

Pottery Painting Drawing

White Bear Lake Ice Out Contest

CONTRIBUTED

The Neuhaus family in White Bear Lake is hoping one of their six entries wins this year’s Ice Out Contest.

andArts Culture

EMERGING ARTIST: HEZAZAC ADAMS

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The first grass dancer was a Native American boy with a disability. When the boy told his grandfather that he wished to be rid of his disability so that he could ride horses and play with the other children, the grandfather responded, “I can tell your spirit means this; you are speaking in a good way.” He directed the boy to a sacred bed of sweetgrass and commanded him to fast for four days, saying, “The creator will give you something for your efforts.”

The boy found the sweetgrass bed, and, on the fourth day, a thunderstorm came upon him. As the boy left the bed to find shelter, a deer approached him, asking, “What are you doing here?” The boy again wished to be rid of his disability. The deer saw the boy’s sincerity and called upon the creator, who sent down a song through the deer, the first grass dance song, about a buffalo being able to trek through the same storm. No matter how bad the storm, the buffalo continues walking, knowing a rainbow will be at the end.

The boy received the song and returned to his grandfather, who threw a

powwow the next day. The boy donned a regalia and performed the first grass dance.

LAKESHORE PLAYERS’

‘THE IMPORTANCE

“TThis is the version of the story White Bear Lake Area High School Senior Hezazac Adams, Ho-Chunk, recounted. “If you ask every single grass dancer to answer,” Adams explained, “it's going to be that same story as the base, but they have some different things, some different characters.” Regardless, this story is why many grass dancers wear deer skin, buffalo hide or rainbow cloth on their regalia when they dance.

Adams began grass dancing at an early age. “My parents, ever since I could walk, threw me in regalia,” he said. “We’d end up in the Dells or Black River, just at powwows all over the place.” Though he dances competitively, Adams has recently been dancing at local events, most notably on Indigenous People’s Day during last October’s school board meeting and last month at the Black Student Union Showcase.

Adams’ category of grass dance is contemporary. “A traditional grass dancer might move around the powwow circle, like, one time fully during the song. Contemporary? We’re always moving, and it’s fast. It’s definitely more of a performance,” Adams contrasted. While the traditional grass dance is many centuries old, Native Americans developed the contemporary style as a

OF BEING EARNEST’ IS FOR ALL MANNERS OF PEOPLE

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

he Importance of Being Earnest,” the 1895 comedy by Oscar Wilde, satirizes Victorian-era high society and its rules using characters that hold double identities, who verbally fence with pointed wit. Encyclopedia Brittanica even states the play to be Wilde’s greatest dramatic achievement. Now through March 22, one can see why by attending Lakeshore Players’ production of the play.

“It’s a timeless comedy that’s been performed for ages and ages, and one of the reasons it’s endured this long is because the writing is spectacular,” Lakeshore Players Executive Director Megan Pence said. Pence also stated that, though the play takes place in a different time and space from ours, audiences will easily draw parallels to their own lives. “You pretend to have this other life … I mean, if these people had phones in this age, they’d

IBY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

n 1904, the Twin Cities Rapid Transit Line expanded their system of electric streetcars from Mahtomedi into Birchwood, around the lake and into the Village of White Bear. For a time, as many as 15 tracks crossed Highway 61, allowing White Bear residents to traverse the town in any direction.

While the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society has highlighted this era before, Executive Director Sara Hanson has recently conducted another wave of research. “We got a grant to dig a little deeper,” Hanson stated, “which allowed us to get some additional photos and lots of records of what was going on when.”

Hanson will present her findings to the public in next month’s Armory program,

be all over social media.”

The play’s director, Craig Johnson, believes that every age has rules for high society, but that social gatekeepers ultimately make those rules up as they go. “At the very end of the play, Lady Bracknell, the ultimate gatekeeper of high society in London, you come to realize, ‘Oh, these are all constructs. These are all things you made up to stay in power and keep everyone in their place.’” Johnson continued that every character in the play is welcomed by the end, mirroring the feeling of community that each audience member feels when they attend the theater.

Concluded Johnson, “It’s just like Oscar Wilde always said, ‘Be yourself. Everyone else is taken.’” Lakeshore Players presents “The Importance of Being Earnest,” now through March 22 at the Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave, White Bear Lake. For tickets, visit lakeshoreplayers.org.

A STREETCAR NOW RETIRED

CONTRIBUTED

“Ding! Ding! Goes the Trolley!” Within this program, Hanson will survey how the Twin Cities Rapid Transit Line invested funds in and directed lines to Wildwood Amusement Park. “They wanted people to come out in

the evenings and on weekends to use the streetcars and gave them a reason to go to the end of the line,” Hanson explained.

The program will also explore streetcar employees’ lives and why White Bear and

Mahtomedi encouraged the network to be built. “It was a huge economic driver in the sense of getting people to the White Bear area to spend money,” Hanson said.

Streetcars, in tandem with the railroad, gave the White Bear Lake area its resort-town past and helped map what our roads look like today. To Hanson, making those contemporary connections for program attendees is essential. While historians may travel on a timeline to different eras, their aim is not to obsess over the past. Said Hanson, “We’re really just trying to understand the present.”

White Bear Lake Area Historical Society presents “Ding! Ding! Goes the Trolley!” at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, at the White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St. For for details, visit whitebearhistory.org/events.

part of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. Since then, contemporary grass dance has evolved into a competition, judged in a manner similar to figure skating. Adams finds dance competitions paradoxical, describing, “The actual spirit that goes into the art of dancing, I feel like most of that is stripped at competition powwows because it's just, ‘I’ve got to out dance you.’” Adams resists this attitude by using dancing as education, commenting, “I want to continue to be the best dancer I can be, then also be able to fulfill my responsibility to keep on passing it down.”

Adams plans to attend college in the fall, eventually becoming a history teacher, but he also plans to continue sharing a piece of Native American history through his art to the community at large. He stated, “Dance for the people who can’t dance, who never could dance. Dance for all those ancestors who aren’t here anymore, who had their culture stripped away from them.”

Hezazac Adams will compete during the Circle of Nations Indigenous Association 41st Annual Powwow on April 11 at UMN Morris. The event is open to all members of the public.

CALENDAR

ABSTRACT BOTANICAL PAINT NIGHT

Location: Casey Lake Park Building, 2089 17th Ave. E., North St. Paul

Dates: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 19

Details: Unwind and get creative at this relaxed, guided paint night inspired by nature. Using stencils and layered color techniques, you’ll create your own abstract botanical artwork. No experience needed; all materials provided.

TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE ARMORY

Location: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 Fourth St., White Bear Lake

Dates: 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, March 24

Details: Join us for a gathering of the minds, brews and plenty of laughter as we take on local-themed trivia. Includes drink specials and prizes for the top three teams.

WRITERS SPEAK: AN OPEN MIC NIGHT FOR THE COMMUNITY

Location: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave.

Dates: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7

Details: Share your latest work, test new ideas or soak in the words around you. If you would like to read, register in advance at whitebeararts.org/ events. Readings should be under five minutes.

‘DEAR EVAN HANSEN’

Location: White Bear Lake Area High School Performing Arts Center, 5040 Division Ave., Door A

Dates: April 9-12

Details: WBLAHS PAC will be the first stage in Minnesota to produce this musical about a young man with a social anxiety disorder who so yearns to make a connection with his peers that he fabricates a relationship with a deceased student to become closer to the boy’s family. For details and tickets, visit sites.google.com/isd624. org/musical-theatre/tickets.

PAUL DOLS PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Hezazac Adams

The White Bear Lake Area Historical Society will host “Ding Ding! Goes the Trolley!” April 14.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-502 JUDGE REYNALDO ALIGADA, JR. AMENDED NOTICE OF HEARING County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

v. K&T Properties, LLC., Lowry Finance Company, Advance Shoring Company, CFE Properties, LLC., Robert L. Brackey, Metropolitan Council Wastewater Services, Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc., 1280 Jackson LLC., Michelle Robinson, B. Bros. St Paul Properties, LLP., Soo Line Railroad Company, Kil-Ben Arlington, LLC., Saint Paul Family Project Limited Partnership, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of Saint Paul, Family Housing Fund, McDonough Organization With Respect and Equality for People (M.O.R.E.), Royal Credit Union, City of St. Paul and County of Ramsey, and all other parties unknown having any claimed right, title or interest in the premises herein, together with the unknown heirs or devisees, if any, of the parties that may be deceased, and including unknown spouses, if any, Respondents.

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND TO THE RESPONDENTS HEREIN ABOVE NAMED:

You, and each of you, are hereby notified that on the 12th day of May 2026, at 10:00 a.m. via ZOOM before Judge Reynaldo Aligada, Jr. Petitioner will present to the above-named court a Petition now on file herein for condemnation of certain land for highway purposes. Parties wishing to appear at the remote hearing at 10:00 a.m. on May 12, 2026, can join by logging into zoom.us/join or by telephone (audio only/toll-free) at 1-833-568-8864. After connecting, enter the following Meeting ID and Passcode: Meeting ID: 161 026 9548 Passcode: 192182

If you plan to appear by ZOOM or telephone, please notify the petitioner’s attorney listed below in order to receive a copy of any proposed exhibits and orders provided to the court. You are not required to notify the petitioner’s attorney, but failure to do so may prevent you from having access to the exhibits and proposed orders submitted.

The object of the Petition is to acquire by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the real property interests as described in the Petition. This notice is amended to change the transfer of title and right of possession to an effective date of May 18, 2026. The land desired and proposed to be taken is situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota, and is described in the Petition, together with the names of all persons appearing of record or known to Petitioner to be the owners of said land or interested therein including all whom Petitioner has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each as nearly as can be ascertained.

At the hearing, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court for an order permitting payment to the respective owners or deposit with the Court an amount equal to Petitioner’s approved appraisal of value of the parcels described in the Petition, thereby transferring title and the right to possession of the property to the County of Ramsey effective May 18, 2026. Furthermore, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to ascertain the allocation of funds so deposited and to establish a procedure for the withdrawal of those funds. Neither payment to the respective owners nor deposit with the Court shall prejudice or affect the right of a respective party to apply for additional payment in this proceeding. Finally, the County of Ramsey will ask the Court to establish procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein.

A party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the court hearing and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a court order, and a court order approving the public use or public purpose, necessity, and authority for the taking is final unless an appeal is brought within 60 days after service of the order on the party. Furthermore, a party wishing to be heard as to the appointment of the commissioners who will ascertain the amount of damages must appear at the court hearing.

Any person not appearing at the hearing, or otherwise filing a notice of appearance with the district court, may not be notified of further hearings or actions related to the Petition.

Dated: March 10, 2026

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn

Scott Schwahn (#0222239) Assistant Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3014 (Schwahn) scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18, 25 and April 1, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT CASE TYPE 2: CONDEMNATION COURT FILE NO. 62-CV-26-502 JUDGE REYNALDO ALIGADA, JR. AMENDED PETITION County of Ramsey, Petitioner,

IN THE MATTER OF THE CONDEMNATION OF CERTAIN LAND

TO: THE DISTRICT COURT ABOVE NAMED

The County of Ramsey brings this Petition and respectfully states and alleges:

That this proceeding is taken pursuant to law in the name of and on behalf of the County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, by John J. Choi, the duly elected, qualified and acting County Attorney, at the request of the Board of County Commissioners of Ramsey County, as shown by County Board Resolution No. B2023-052, dated April 4, 2023, a certified copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit A and made a part hereof.

II. That the County of Ramsey also deems it necessary, expedient, and for a public use and purpose to obtain by “quick take” condemnation under the right of eminent domain the permanent easements and temporary construction easements in the lands as described in this Petition, together with all structures, trees, shrubs, grass and herbage to be damaged thereby.

III.

In the attached Exhibit B, where “fee title” is identified, the interest being conveyed is fee simple title.

IV.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “permanent easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights necessary for the construction, operation, and maintenance of all public right-of-way and utility uses now known or adopted in the future. Such rights include, but are not limited to, the right: to remove and use all plants, trees, ground cover, and natural growth now existing, or later planted or grown; to permanently grade or alter the grade of the land, and to remove and use all earth and other material not reasonably necessary for lateral and subjacent support; to limit or allow the location, number, and related characteristics of access from the remainder property to the public right-of-way; to store equipment or supplies; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; to remove any physical improvements or fixtures that interfere with its use as a public right-of-way; and to exclude from the area any use or improvement that conflicts with the rights conveyed herein. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained.

In the attached Exhibit B, where a “temporary easement” is identified, the interests being conveyed include all rights of possession and use, for a limited period of time, necessary or incidental to support the related construction project, including the right: to stage equipment or supplies; to access other portions of the construction project; to make minimal permanent alterations to the grade of the land that do not substantially impact the remainder; to remove (and restore in substantially similar condition) any plants, ground cover, or physical improvements; to access, both ingress and egress, from the most reasonably convenient rights-of-way; and to install any temporary improvements. Reasonable and convenient access to the remainder will be maintained. The term of the temporary easement shall be for 24 months beginning on May 18, 2026, and ending May 18, 2028, or for 24 months from the date when granted pursuant to order of the district court, whichever is later. In addition, the interests identified in this paragraph include the option of the Petitioner to extend the temporary easement for up to two twelve-month terms to be held consecutive to the original term and to each other at the monthly rate determined for the initial term.

VI.

Personal property not specifically identified as being acquired, including, but not limited to, fencing, irrigation systems, pavement, curbing, or signage, or trees, shrubs, plants, or ground covering, is not included in this petition, except to the extent the above rights provide for the removal, replacement, use, or repair of such property. It is the intention of the Petitioner to address any claim of damage related to personal property destroyed, removed, lost, or otherwise damaged, but not repaired or replaced in substantially similar condition, in accordance with applicable relocation laws, including Minn. Stat. § 117.50 - .56 or the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and any regulations adopted pursuant thereto.

VII.

That the purpose for which said interests in land described in this Petition are being acquired is for the purpose of a roadway project for the Jackson Street reconstruction project which shall replace the deteriorated roadway and replace two aging bridges. Additionally, along the project pedestrian infrastructure will be installed and a connection between the Trout Brook Trail segments will be established.

VIII.

The taking in this matter is to obtain rights sufficient to support the construction and maintenance of a public highway, including related facilities. Unless specifically identified, pre-existing utility, pipeline, access, and other easements or interests shall remain in full force and effect and shall only be impaired to the extent necessary for the County of Ramsey to construct and maintain a public highway, and related uses, on the land being acquired. For any parcel being taken by this condemnation proceeding that is subject to preexisting utility, pipeline, access, or other easements or interests, the County of Ramsey shall work as needed with the easement holder to adjust facilities to accommodate the construction or to adjust construction plans to minimize related damages.

IX.

It is the intent of the Petitioner that reasonable access, in at least one direction, to the main thoroughfare will be maintained for any remaining interest of a property from which a temporary easement is taken.

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, should tests or evaluations undertaken by or on behalf of the County of Ramsey indicate the possible presence of pollutants, contaminants, or hazardous substances on any of the property described in this Petition, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to defer effecting the transfer of the interest to any of the property as described herein for a reasonable time until the County of Ramsey can evaluate whether it wishes to proceed with the taking, abandon these proceedings and dismiss the Petition as to said property, or otherwise respond to such information.

Further, the County of Ramsey reserves the right to recover costs of clean-up and testing and all other damages resulting from the presence of pollutants, contaminates, or hazardous substances on the property described herein, from all potentially responsible parties in a separate legal action.

XI.

That a party wishing to challenge the public use or public purpose, necessity, or authority for a taking must appear at the hearing of this Court at which the County of Ramsey, as Petitioner, shall present this Petition to the Court and state the objection or must appeal within 60 days of a Court order.

XII.

That the land in these proceedings to be taken are situated in Ramsey County, Minnesota and are more particularly described in attached Exhibit B which is made a part hereof. The names of all persons appearing of record or known to the County of Ramsey to be the owners of said land, or interested therein, including all whom the County of Ramsey has been able by investigation and inquiry to discover, together with the nature of the ownership of each, as nearly as can be ascertained, are set forth on attached Exhibit B. XIII.

The County of Ramsey hereby moves the court for an order transferring title and possession of the parcels described herein prior to filing of an award by the court appointed commissioners, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes § 117.042.

WHEREFORE, the County of Ramsey prays for an order of this Court as follows:

1. Adjudging that said taking is for a public purpose, is necessary, and is authorized by law; and

2. It be further adjudged that the County of Ramsey is entitled to take and hold such property for the public use pursuant to the Notice of Intent to Take Possession, on file with this Court; and

3. Appointing three disinterested commissioners, and at least two alternates, to ascertain and report the amount of damages that will be sustained by the several owners on account of the taking; fixing the time and place of the first meeting of the three commissioners; prescribing their compensation; establishing procedures for the disbursement of funds deposited with the district court; establishing procedures by which commissioners shall hear all allegations and proofs of persons interested herein; and requiring the commissioners to file their report with the District Court Administrator within 365 days from the date of the order appointing the commissioners unless said

time be further extended by order of the Court; and 4. For such other and further relief as may be proper and pursuant to law.

Dated: March 10, 2026

JOHN J. CHOI

Ramsey County Attorney

By: s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn (#0222239) Assistant Ramsey County Attorney 360 Wabasha St. N., Suite 100 St. Paul, MN 55102 (651) 266-3014 (Schwahn) scott.schwahn@co.ramsey.mn.us

Attorneys for Petitioner

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The undersigned hereby acknowledges that costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney and witness fees may be awarded pursuant to Minn. Stat. Section 549.211 to the party against whom the allegations in this pleading are asserted.

/s/ Scott Schwahn Scott Schwahn

EXHIBIT A RAMSEY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION B2023-052

Sponsor: Public Works

Meeting Date: 4/4/2023

Title: 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program

File Number: 2023-120

Background and Rationale:

To qualify for state and federal funding and to proceed with construction projects, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners must approve the Public Works 5-year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). The TIP is a planning document and funding estimates identified in the TIP are reflected in the county’s Capital Improvements Program Budget. Similar programs have been developed each year since 1988.

The Public Works department, annually, prepares the TIP using a collaborative process whereby the county solicits projects and input from area municipalities. Project inclusion in the TIP is based on a cooperative dialogue with municipal and state partners, along with technical analysis and consideration of funding opportunities. While funding limits will continue to challenge program delivery, communication and engagement with municipal partners ensures local needs and priorities are examined and addressed to the extent possible.

Projects included in the TIP are also looked at through the lens of the Ramsey County All Abilities Transportation Network policy, which prioritizes the most vulnerable users (i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, people with disabilities, etc.) first.

The design, construction, and right-of-way costs identified in the TIP are estimates based on best practices in the industry. The funding landscape for transportation projects can be volatile and the ultimate delivery of the TIP is dependent on future funding levels. Partnering on projects with area communities, bordering counties, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, and other state agencies will continue to be a critical way for Ramsey County to get the most from available funds.

Recommendation: The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners resolved to:

1. Adopt the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program.

2. Authorize the County Engineer to prepare plans and agreements for all projects identified in the Transportation Improvement Program, and to issue solicitations in accordance with County policies and procedures and the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s list of “Pre-Qualified Vendors by Work Type”.

3. Authorize the County Surveyor to execute Right of Way Plats and Certificate of Surveys for Highway projects that require the determination of existing right of way for the delineation and /or acquisition of property, for planning studies or disposition of excess county property.

4. Authorize the County Manager to enter into contracts and agreements, and execute change orders and amendments to contracts, supplemental agreements, and agreements related to the expenditure of Transportation Improvement Program Project Funds utilizing County State Aid, Federal, State, and participating funding associated with the construction of the approved projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program or a previously approved Transportation Improvement Program in accordance with the county’s procurement policies and procedures.

5. Authorize the County Engineer and County Attorney to acquire temporary easements, permanent easements, fee title, and enter into Limited Use Permits with the State of Minnesota for projects in the 2023 - 2027 Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, by negotiation or condemnation.

6. Authorize the Public Works Director to approve negotiated settlements for up to $100,000 over the county’s appraised value per parcel for temporary and permanent easements and fee title.

7. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute purchase agreements, settlements, closing documents, Limited Use Permits, and other related real estate documentation associated with County Board approved acquisitions of real property.

8. Authorize the County Manager to approve and execute cooperative agreements and maintenance agreements with cities, counties, the state, and other governmental agencies for their participation in projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program.

9. Authorize temporary cash loans from the County General Fund to the Road and Bridge Capital Improvement Program fund and the Wheelage Tax fund for costs of projects listed in the 2023 -2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program, or previously approved Transportation Improvement Program, and for maintenance project expenditures occurring before bond or wheelage tax proceeds are received pending receipt of Federal, County State Aid Highway, state and participating funds.

10. Authorize the Public Works Director to submit grant applications for state and federal funding for projects listed in the 2023 - 2027 Public Works Transportation Improvement Program.

11. Authorize the County Manager to accept grants and execute grant agreements agreeing to the grant terms and conditions for the grant award. For grants that so require, the county agrees to be responsible for any additional amount by which the cost exceeds the county’s construction cost estimate and will return to the grantor any grant amount appropriated for the project but not utilized for the project under the terms of the grant agreement.

12. Authorize the County Manager to issue letters of support in place of an official Ramsey County Board Resolution for constituent cities’ grant applications.

A motion to approve was made by Commissioner McGuire, seconded by Commissioner Reinhardt. Motion passed.

Aye: - 7: Frethem, MatasCastillo, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, and Xiong By: Mee Cheng, Chief Clerk - County Board

I, Jason Yang, Interim Chief Clerk - County Board, duly appointed and qualified for Ramsey County, Minnesota, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of Resolution B2023-052, passed by the Board of Commissioners on 04/04/2023

Attest: Jason Yang, Chief Clerk - County Board

Date Certified: 2/25/2025

Continued from previous page.

EXHIBIT B

PARCEL 8

(0 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922420016)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 8, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-42-0016 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55117 - Abstract

PARCEL 10

(1370 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922420026)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 10, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles and the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-42-0026 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 389958 and 579140 ADDRESS: 1370 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55117

PARCEL 12

(1336 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922420023)

PERMANENT RIGHT-OF-WAY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Parcel 12, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 12, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-42-0023 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 540978

ADDRESS: 1336 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55117

PARCEL 15 (A & B) (0 NORPAC ROAD– PID 192922430027)

PERMANENT RIGHT-OF-WAY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Parcel 15, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 15A and Temporary Easement Parcel 15B, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-43-0027 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Norpac Road, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 55 FEE TITLE DESCRIPTION Parcel 1: (ABSTRACT PROPERTY) Lot 9, Block 1, Parker and Bailey’s Out Lots, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota. AND Lot “C” except that triangular portion thereof lying North of a West extension of the North line of Lot “D” and all of Lot “D” except all that thereof which lies East of a line running parallel with and 26 feet distant West (measured at right angles) from the West line of Cortland Street (aka Jackson Street) as now laid out and established in the City of St. Paul, all being in Soo Line Plat Number 3, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota.

EXCEPT:

That part of the West 80 feet of Lot “C” Soo Line Plat Number 3, lying between the North right-of-way line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a 45 foot radius, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue and 147.74 feet West of the West line of Jackson Street; That part of Lot “C”, except the West 80 feet thereof, Soo Line Plat Number 3, lying between the North right-of-way line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a radius of 45 feet, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue, and 147.74 feet West of the West line of Jackson Street. Parcel 2: (TORRENS PROPERTY)

Lot E, Soo Line Plat Number 3, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota.

AND Lot F, Soo Line Plat Number 3, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota, except that part lying between the south right-ofway line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a 45-foot radius, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue and 147.74 feet west of the west line of Jackson Street.

AND Lot 6, Block 1, Dawson’s Fourth Addition to St. Paul, according to the recorded plat thereof, Ramsey County, Minnesota, except that part lying between the south right-of-way line of Hawthorne Avenue and the arc of a circle having a 45 foot radius, the center of said circle being on the center line of Hawthorne Avenue and 147.74 feet west of the west line of Jackson Street.

PIN: 19-29-22-34-0044 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s) 515780 ADDRESS: 1237 Jackson Street, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 56

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 56, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-34-0006 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Jackson Street, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 57

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 57, RAMSEY

COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 13, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-34-0053 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 0 Unassigned, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 63 (80 ARLINGTON AVENUE EAST – PID 192922310005)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across Temporary Easement Parcel 63, RAMSEY COUNTY HIGHWAY RIGHT OF WAY PLAT NO. 12, as the same is on file and of record in the office of the Registrar of Titles in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota.

PIN: 19-29-22-31-0005 – Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 587643

ADDRESS: 80 Arlington Avenue East, Saint Paul MN 55117

PARCEL 65 (1497 JACKSON STREET – PID 192922240042)

TEMPORARY EASEMENT DESCRIPTION:

Over, under and across those parts of Lots 7 through 12 inclusive, Block 19, and Lots 1 through 13 inclusive, Block 20, together with the vacated Nebraska Street (platted as Carry Street) accruing thereto, all in GURNEY HIGHLAND PARK, according to the recorded plat thereof and on file in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota and more particularly described as follows:

Beginning at the most southerly corner of said Lot 13, Block 20; thence North 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds West, assumed bearing, along the westerly right of way line of Jackson Street, a distance of 571.0 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds West, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 6.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 45.0 feet; thence North 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds East, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 51.0 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds West, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 15.0 feet; thence North 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds East, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 101.7 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds West, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 16.0 feet; thence North 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds East, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 3.0 feet; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 108.7 feet; thence South 89 degrees 39 minutes 12 seconds West, along a line perpendicular to said westerly right of way line, a distance of 1.0 foot; thence South 00 degrees 20 minutes 48 seconds East, along a line parallel with said westerly right of way line, a distance of 230.5 feet to the intersection with the southerly line of said Lot 13; thence South 52 degrees 41 minutes 49 seconds East, along said southerly line of Lot 13, a distance of 5.1 feet to said point of beginning and there terminating. PIN: 19-29-22-24-0042 – Abstract and Torrens Property - Certificate of Title No(s): 660873

ADDRESS: 1497 Jackson Street, Saint Paul MN 55117

HIGHLAND PARK, according to the recorded plat thereof and on file in the office of the County Recorder in and for Ramsey County, Minnesota. PIN: 19-29-22-21-0046 – Abstract Property

ADDRESS: 96 Wheelock Parkway East, Saint Paul MN 55117

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18, 25 and April 1, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT FAMILY COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-FA-26-229 SUMMONS

In Re the Marriage of: Hiba Bashir, Petioner, and Hani Samir, Respondent. THE STATE OF MINNESOTA TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to serve upon the Petitioner’s attorney a response to the Petition which is herewith served upon you, within thirty (30) days after service of this Summons upon you, exclusive of the day of service. If you fail to do so, judgment by default will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

This Petition involves, affects, or brings in question real property listed as follows:

A. 3431 Vivian Ave., and situated in the City of Shoreview, County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, legally described as: Lot 10, Block 12, Hills of Home Plat 3, Ramsey County, Minnesota. B. 5717 W Villard Ave., and situated in the City of Milwaukee, County of Milwaukee, State of Wisconsin, legally described as: Legal to govern.

C. 4412 N. 51st Blvd., and situated in the City of Milwaukee, County of Milwaukee, State of Wisconsin, and legally described as: Legal to govern.

NOTICE OF TEMPORARY RESTRAINING AND ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROVISIONS UNDER MINNESOTA LAW, SERVICE OF THIS SUMMONS MAKES THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS APPLY TO BOTH PARTIES TO THIS ACTION, UNLESS THEY ARE MODIFIED BY THE COURT OR THE PROCEEDING IS DISMISSED.

(1) Neither party may dispose of any assets except (i) for the necessities of life or for the necessary generation of income or preservation of assets, (ii) by an agreement in writing, or (iii) for retaining counsel to carry on or to contest this proceeding;

(2) Neither party may harass the other party; and

(3) All currently available insurance coverage must be maintained and continued without change in coverage or beneficiary designation. IF YOU VIOLATE ANY OF THESE PROVISIONS, YOU WILL BE SUBJECT TO SANCTIONS BY THE COURT.

(4) Parties to a marriage dissolution proceeding are encouraged to attempt Alternative Dispute Resolution pursuant to Minnesota law. Alternative Dispute Resolution includes mediation, arbitration, and other processes as set forth in the District Court Rules. You may contact the Court Administrator about resources in your area. If you cannot pay for mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution, in some counties, assistance may be available to you through a nonprofit provider or a court program. If you are a victim of domestic abuse or threats of abuse as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 518B, you are not required to try mediation and you will not be penalized by the court in later proceedings. UPON SERVICE OF THE SUMMONS, THE RESTRAINING PROVISIONS HEREIN ARE APPLICABLE BY OPERATION OF LAW UNTIL MODIFIED BY FURTHER ORDER OF THE COURT OR DISMISSAL OF THE PROCEEDING, UNLESS MORE THAN ONE YEAR HAS PASSED SINCE THE LAST DOCUMENT WAS FILED WITH THE COURT. NOTICE OF PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 518.157, IN A CONTESTED PROCEEDING INVOLVING CUSTODY OR PARENTING TIME OF A MINOR CHILD, THE PARTIES MUST BEGIN PARTICIPATION IN A PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAM THAT MEETS MINIMUM STANDARDS PROMULGATED BY THE MINNESOTA SUPREME COURT WITHIN 30 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST FILING WITH THE COURT. IN SOME DISTRICTS, PARENTING EDUCATION MAY BE REQUIRED IN ALL CUSTODY OR PARENTING PROCEEDINGS. YOU MAY CONTACT THE DISTRICT COURT ADMINISTRATOR FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING THIS REQUIREMENT AND THE AVAILABILTY OF PARENT EDUCATION PROGRAMS.

DEWALT, CHAWLA + SAKSENA, LLC

Dated: October 23, 2025 /s/ Melissa Chawla Melissa Chawla (#0319223) 330 2nd Ave. South, Ste. 760, Minneapolis, MN 55401 (612) 361-6180 melissa.chawla@dcsfamilylaw.com

Attorney for Petitioner

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 4, 11 and 18, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-P9-02-005735

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF SUCCESSOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

In re the Estate of Loren Dillard Cramer, a/k/a Loren D. Cramer, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Notice is hereby given that an application for informal appointment of successor personal representative has been filed with the Court. Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Donald D. Cramer 22933 Kirk Avenue North Scandia, MN 55073 as Successor Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as successor personal representative or may object to the appointment of the Successor Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-607 within fourteen (14) days of service upon you, and the Court otherwise orders, the Successor Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Theresa Ames , Court Administrator

Date: February 13, 2026

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 11 and 18, 2026.

AND 12, Block 8, GURNEY

1. Lake Country Booksellers Authors for Minnesota event raised over $4,000 for vulnerable neighbors. Contributed

2. This mannequin, dressed up for the state hockey tournament, was spotted in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue in White Bear Lake. – Shannon Granholm, Press Publications

3. This rainbow was recently spotted over Bald Eagle Lake. — Kate Gipp, contributed

4. “Snow babies” enjoying the recent snowfall. — Nicole Bousu, contributed

5. What do you wear with the bear???!!! Superhero day! — Linda and Marty Miser, contributed

6. Crowds flocked to the 2nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Hootenanny at The Minnesotan March 14. — Carter Johnson, Press Publications

Bear stolen from White Bear Smiles

White Bear Lake Smiles, located at 4778 Banning Ave., had its white bear

stolen from outside the front door sometime March 7-8. The bear was a gift from the staff to the doctors this past Christmas.

White Bear Police Chief Dale Hager

“The staff are all amazing, caring, and compassionate people. Dr. Anderson is one of

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

“Everyone at

Both

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

“Amazing

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

said the bear theft seems to be an isolated incident, and as of press time, no other bears had recently been reported stolen. Anyone who knows about the bear’s whereabouts is encouraged to let the business know.

Coffee shop reopens

Cajeta Coffee in downtown White Bear Lake is open and back to regular business hours. The breakfast and lunch spot is located inside the Avalon Mall on Fourth Street.

Chamber will host ribboncutting for La Vie Est Belle

La Vie Est Belle gift shop opened its second location in White Bear Lake this past October at 2175 Fourth Street (across from Good Things). The White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce plans to host a ribbon-cutting for the new business at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 24. Food and drinks will be served. La Vie Este Belle opened its first store in Lake Elmo back in 2022. For more information about the business, visit https://shoplavie.co.

Royal Credit Union welcomes new mortgage loan officers

start to finish. Liberty is based in the White Bear Lake office. He comes to Royal with experience in national mortgage origination. As a Minnesota native, Liberty is passionate about supporting his local community and volunteers at Stillwater’s Early Family Education Program, Stillwater Area Hockey Association and Senitizo, a nonprofit organization that provides lifesaving health services to people without access to health care in the Central African Republic.

Work begins on former Hollihan’s Pub building

Renovations have begun on the former Hollihan’s Pub building located on Third Street in downtown White Bear Lake.

Building owners Eli and Shannon Rupnow say that once renovations are complete, they would love to find a restaurant, deli, bakery or something similar to bring the building to life.

Royal Credit Union recently announced Ben Liberty as a mortgage loan officer. In the position, Liberty will guide members through every step of the mortgage process, offering tailored product recommendations and ensuring a seamless application experience from

“We are excited about the positive changes and updates that we’re bringing to downtown. We want to find a vibrant, dynamic tenant that will add to the lively downtown we know and love,” Eli said. “This is a unique historic building in a prime location, and we want it to be an asset to downtown for decades to come. It will have tons of character when complete.”

If anyone is interested in leasing the space, either the main floor or both floors, they should contact the Rupnows at 651-243-0660.

We are a 30+ year Bathroom Remodeling Company in your area. Did you see your new bathroom design at the Home Show? We can help you bring your vision to fruition. We have the knowledge and expertise to incorporate the new products into your bathroom. We also have the expertise on installation of new tile designs and patterns. We are experienced in mold killing and inhibiting products if there is a mold concern. We can help you to lay out the items that you will need to complete your bathroom, and we have a great method that we can explain in person for the purchasing of all the materials needed for the bathroom. We practice cleanliness by cleaning up the project every afternoon after the workday has finished. We have a 1 year warranty on all labor that is rarely used by customers.

Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm | 651-407-1250 | classified@presspubs.com

Press Publications suggests that you be aware of advertisers requesting payment for shipping merchandise. Confirm and verify all contact resources prior to sending any money. Take caution when responding to text messages that are not local numbers.

Free clam truck loads of wood delivered White Bear & Hugo areas only 651*/426*8660

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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 City of Hugo is NOW HIRING for seaso nal public works employees These positions are res ponsible for assisting the Public Work s Dept in tasks includ ing park, street and utilities maintena nce. Po sition s ar e from May – Sept and will not exceed 40 hrs /wk. Pay is $18/hr Applicants must have a va lid MN driver s license and be at least 18 yrs old. Applications are available at Public Works, 8220 14 0th St N. Hugo, MN 55038, 651-7626301 or on the City s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us/employment Applications must be completed and returned to Public Work s or emailed to pw @ci.hugo.mn.us by 4:00 p.m. Mar 30, 2026.

The City of Lexin gton NOW HIRING for fu lltime Administative Asst/Premit Te ch Th is position perfo rms se cretaria l & cler ical work with primary responsibility of serv in g residents & businesses of the community Salary range $24.5230.42/hr plus be nefits Application and full job description at www.lexing tonmn.gov or at City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 Complete application and resume must be rece ived by 3pm April 3, 2026.

GREENHOUSE HELP WANTED

Hugo Feed Mill and Hardware is hiring seasonal workers for May and June. Duties include helping customers and plant care. Plant knowledge is helpful. Hours and days are flexible. Employee discount on your own purchases. Great job for flower and veggie lovers!

Call Steve at 651.429-3361

The Public Works Maintenance Worker performs skilled labor in the maintenance of roads, water systems, sanitary sewer systems, stormwater infrastructure, parks, equipment, and Township facilities. Responsibilities include operating heavy equipment and power tools, as well as performing physically demanding tasks. This position serves as a visible representative of the Township and often acts as the first point of contact for public inquiries. The role is essential to preserving public assets through timely maintenance and the safe operation of equipment.

Position Vacancy Notice

Minimum qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• Two years of experience in the operation of power tools, operation of trucks and heavy equipment, completing vehicle/equipment maintenance, or equivalent

• Class A driver’s license is required or must be obtained within 12 months

• Valid Minnesota Driver’s License

• Ability to respond to emergency calls within 1 hour

• Anticipated hiring range is $32.98 - $41.05

To apply, complete and submit a White Bear Township Employment Application found on whitebeartownship.org/Jobs.aspx. Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m., Friday, March 27, 2026. Submit completed applications to: White Bear Township, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, MN 55110 or via email adminoffices@ whitebeartownship.org

The City of Lexington is now accepting applications for a full-time, Administrative Assistant/Permit Technician. This position performs secretarial and clerical work with primary responsibility for serving the residents and businesses of the community. Duties include, but not limited to, customer service; permitting; community communications (SCALA, newsletter and website); and provides administrative support to all departments.

2026-2027 Salary range is $24.52$30.42 per hour plus benefits. Minimum qualifications: (1) high school diploma or equivalent; (2) post high school education or 2 years progressively responsible experience; and (3) experience with Microsoft Office applications.

Desired qualifications: (1) 2 or more years municipal government experience, (2) training or 2 years experience with State of Minnesota Retention Schedules, and (3) experience with elections and/ or permit software. An application and job description are available at www. lexingtonmn.gov or at City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014.

A completed application and resume must be received – Attn: City Administrator - by 3:00 PM, Friday, April 3rd, 2026.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer 853009

SEASONAL PUBLIC WORKS POSITION. The City of Hugo is currently accepting applications for seasonal public works employees. These positions are responsible for assisting the public works department in a wide variety of tasks including park, street and utilities maintenance. These positions will exist from May through September and will not exceed 40 hours per week. The rate of pay is $18 per hour. Applicants must have a valid Minnesota driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age. Applications are available at Public Works, 8220 140th St. N., Hugo, MN 55038, 651762-6301 or on the City’s web site at www.ci.hugo.mn.us/employment. Applications must be completed and returned to Public Works or emailed to pw@ci.hugo.mn.us by 4:00 p.m., March 30, 2026.

NOW HIRING! GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Part time 6-12 hours/week

Entry level position

Experience with indesign, illustrator and photoshop preferred

Main responsibilities include ad design and newspaper layout

Send resume to artmanager@presspubs.com

White Bear Township NOW HIRING Public Work s Maintenance Work er to per form skill labor in the maintenance of roads, water systems, sanitary sewer systems, storm water infrastructure, parks, equipment, and townsh ip facilities.

Minimum Qualifications: HS Diploma/eq, 2 yrs exp in operation of pwr tools, operation of trucks & heavy equipment completing vehicle/equipment main tenance or equivalen t. Anticipa ted hiring range $32.98$41.05

To apply, complete and submit a Wh ite Bear Township Employment Application foun d on whitebeartownship.org/J obs.aspx. Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m., Friday, March 27, 2026 at 4:30 pm Submit completed applications to: White Bear Township, 1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township MN 5 5110 or via email adminoffices@whitebeartownship.org

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race, co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

performed. COVID-19 restrictions and subsequent construction in White Bear Lake Schools ended the streak of performances for four years. The White Bear Lake Lions are not aware of any other Lions Clubs locally or even in the state that perform a show, but there are some in other states.

“Because it will be four years since we had a show, we have had to resurrect everything. So, it’s been a process trying to gather everything together again,” explained this year’s Show Chair Dave Hunt. “We’ve always done it at Central, and this year we are doing it at the old theater at the high school, so that transition has been an adjustment as well.”

Machus says he wrote the script for the show five years ago. “I just get an idea, and I start writing,” he said. “I laugh at my own jokes.” Five years ago, when he pitched the idea of a “Star Trek” theme to then-president Kate Hunt (current president’s Ivy Hunt’s aunt), she said she liked “Star Wars” better. “So, I interspersed a lot of cameos of ‘Star Wars’ characters in this show to make her happy.”

This year’s show is directed by a professional director and designer, Mike Grittner, who grew up in White Bear Lake and then moved away for 30 years before moving back to the area. He is an associate member of the Society for Stage Directors and Choreographers.

“This one's all about that constant

battle. You are either a ‘Star Trek’ fan or you are a ‘Star Wars’ (fan)… ‘Star Wars’ keeps jumping into our ‘Star Trek’ story,” Grittner explained. Dave said the show will once again “poke a little fun” at Hugo, like the Lions try to do in most of their shows.

The White Bear Lake Lions Club has approximately 60 members. Of those, about 40 are active and attend the twice-a-month meetings at Carbone’s.

This year’s show cast is made up of 23 Lions, but there are around 40 members involved in the show, many of them behind the scenes with costumes, set design, makeup, etc. The youngest actor is 12 and the oldest is 79.

because they know how important it is for their community.

“In other years, the show was a tradition, and we did it so when it was gone, I think people really saw the value of bringing back the show … When it was gone, people were always asking, ‘When's the show coming back?’ It makes a lasting impact on our community, but the club really feels an obligation to bring that back too,” she said. “I think there's a different level of commitment than there has been.”

“I did my first show at 5, and now I’m 26, so a lot of people grow with the club. The show brings in a lot of people because families are dedicated to coming and seeing this, and you really become a part of it too,” Ivy Hunt explained. “When most people think of Lions Club, you are going to see a lot of older adults, but our club is demographically different.”

Besides being the youngest president in the White Bear Lake club’s history, Hunt is likely one of the youngest presidents to serve the organization in the entire state and perhaps the entire country. She noted that the club also has one of the youngest boards in the state.

“I think our club is very dedicated to, yes, bringing new, but also staying true to our roots, too,” she said.

Although most of the Lions are not professional actors or dancers, Ivy says they work their tails off for the show

Machus added, “There's a formula that works for our audience to enjoy it. They want to come. They want to laugh. They want to hear good music … We make it happen, and the audience likes that feeling that we are just a bunch of amateurs having a good time and putting on a good production.”

In fact, the Lions described the show as their “signature event” that has attracted new members, often from the same family, to join the club.

“Ivy is on stage; her grandparents are on stage; her dad is on stage,” Dave said. “My parents were on stage, my daughters were on stage, all three of our family dogs were on stage. It is very much a family event.”

For more information about the show, visit www.whitebearlions.org/annual-lions-club-show.

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

SPORTS

No. 4 Zephyrs finish 25-4, one game short Coach of strong CC program resigns

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Dan Kovacich, coach of one of White Bear Lake’s most successful programs, boys cross country, for 23 years, has resigned.

“I decided to step down to spend more time with my family,” Kovacich explained. “My twin boys are both hockey players, and one plays lacrosse and the other plays baseball. They are currently in ninth grade. We live in Woodbury. I want to spend these next three years with them and my wife.”

Head coach since 2003, Kovacich, a former Bear himself, took 14 of his 23 teams to state meets.

Eight of them placed in the top 10, led by the 2017 team in fourth place.

Individually, he coached 14 all-state runners (three in the top ten), 62 all-conference, and four section champions. He was recently named to the Coaches Association’s state Hall of Fame.

The 2019 team won the Griak Gold race, the most prestigious event outside the state meet. They had just one conference team title (2008), competing with perennial state powers Stillwater and Mounds View.

“Over my 23 seasons, our teams were ranked in the top 10 sometime during the season for 15 of those seasons,” he noted.

Kovacich, also longtime distance coach the track team, will step down from that post also, following the 2026 season. Corey Larson (see separate story) will be the new cross country coach and the track team’s distance coach.

“Corey will be fine addition to the program,” Kovacich said.

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Two of the top four teams in the Class 3A rankings clashed in the Section 4AAA finals Thursday in Minneapolis.

The one going to state is No. 2 ranked DeLaSalle (26-3) with a 67-46 conquest of No. 4 Mahtomedi (25-4) on Thursday evening in a packed Islander gym, both fan galleries loud and boisterous.

“We certainly had an amazing season,” said coach Keith Newman, noting that 25 wins tied the school record. Plus the JV team went 22-1.

The swift, swarming, soaring Islanders had Deon Wallace-Johnson with 14 points; Kamar Thomas, Ichima Idoko and Evan Miller with 12 each; and Jaeden Udean with eight. Mahtomedi was within 35-31 before Thomas made two resounding dunks that got the Islanders going.

Mark Graff tallied 15 points for Mahtomedi, Willie Roeloffs 11 and Andrew Russell six. The Zephyrs had very few uncontested shots against the tenacious Islander defense.

“We had a great season. We enjoyed it a lot. It went by pretty fast,” Graff said. “It’s definitely unfortunate that we had to go through such a good team to make state. It was a fun game. It’s always an intense atmosphere in that gym.”

This marked the second time in four years that a No. 4 ranked Mahtomedi team finished 25-4 without a state trip. In 2023 they lost to No. 1 ranked, state champion Totino-Grace in the section finals.

“We have had many outstanding teams that haven’t made it to the state tournament. The teams from 2022–23 and this year were certainly top-five caliber teams in the state,” Newman said.

“I especially feel for the players,” Newman said. While he wished they could have had the state tourney experience, not getting there “does not diminish the incredible seasons they had.”

Regarding those unfortunate section finals matchups, Newman mused, “It would be interesting to consider an approach similar to what a couple neighboring states do.” In that format, the 16 section finalists are seeded for

Corey Larson to take over Bear boys cross country

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Corey Larson is the new head coach for White Bear Lake boys cross country, succeeding Dan Kovacich, who stepped down after 23 seasons.

“Larson brings a strong combination of personal running experience, coaching expertise, and a decade of service in education, to the program,” stated the school. Larson was an assistant to Kovacich this past season after coaching the middle school program for one season. He will also be the new distance coach on the track team. He is a paraprofessional, Pupil Support Assistant in the school administration.

“I am most excited about our community and look forward to continuing to establish a supportive and fun environment for our runners,” Larson said. “I am excited to see growth in our team — not only as athletes, but as individuals.”

Larson was a track and cross country runner at Rochester

eight duels to decide who goes to state. Roelofs finished his junior season with 1,346 points, second all-time to Zach Lundquist’s 1,383. Graff ended his career No. 6 with 1,205 points.

SPORTS BRIEF

Prep archery club to host regional

The White Bear Lake Archery Club is hosting the NASP Region 3 tournament Saturday, March 21, coach Paul Erickson announced.

“We will have roughly 2,000 archers and roughly 60 schools here from all over the cities and central Minnesota,” stated Erickson.

Action will start at 8 a.m. and conclude around 6:15 p.m., with

bullseye competition in the big fieldhouse and the 3-dimensional in the Gavin Court at the auxiliary gym. The Bears high school team has 29 members and the middle school team has 16 members. They have competed in nine tournaments. Top shooters, Erickson said, have been Caleb Grund (high school) and Elijah Felber (middle school).

Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Mark Graff

Mahtomedi Basketball March 18, 2026

Mark Graff, Mahtomedi point guard, averaged 19.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.3 steals, leading a 25-4 team. The 6-foot-2 senior made 90 three-pointers, shooting .357 on three’s and .786 on free throws. His career points total is 1,205. In a close section win over St. Paul Johnson, the Gustavus Adolphus recruit delivered 27 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists, “Mark has been a joy to coach. His focus on the team and what we are trying to accomplish together is always his top priority,” coach Keith Newman said, praising Graff’s leadership “around the school and in all his sports.” Graff was an all-conference quarterback/safety in football, passing for 716 yards and five touchdowns and running for eight touchdowns. He is also the golf team captain.

TODD

Willie Roelofs soared for a basket against DeLaSalle.

RON ENGH | CONTRIBUTED

Dan Kovacich had 14 state-qualifying teams in his 23 seasons.

John Marshall. He earned an elementary education degree from Winona State. He was an assistant coach for two seasons at Bellevue, Washington, before joining the White Bear Lake faculty.

SHAWN GRITZMACHER | CONTRIBUTED

Corey Larson

In the article, “Vadnais Heights resident dances to 100 and beyond,” in the March 11 issue Ed Ehrnreiter’s name was spelled incorrectly. We apologize for the error.

Lakes Dispensary hosts grand opening

The Lakes Dispensary will host its grand opening from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 21. Mitchell Vannelli is the owner/general manager, and

Maxwell Vannelli is the license holder and likely one of the youngest license holders in the state. Maxwell and Mitchell both graduated from Mahtomedi High School. During the grand opening, there will be a ribbon cutting, food and drinks.

There will also be a gift basket give away, with the drawing at 6 p.m. Lakes Dispensary is located at 1599 County Road E East, Gem Lake. For more information on hours or products, visit Thelakesdispensary.com.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-110 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

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

In re the Estate of Michael James Martell, a/k/a Michael J. Martell, Michael Martell, Mike J. Martell and Mike Martell, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on February 27, 2026 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated August 26, 2019 (“Will”) has been filed with the Court, and the Amended Application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Jeffrey A. Shea, 6575 Albert Court, Lino Lakes, MN 55038 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.

Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing.

Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Theresa Ames, Court Administrator

Date: March 3, 2026

Attorney for Personal Representative: BRIDGET CHRISTINE ANDERSON

Attorney License No.: 392452

Courey Kosanda & Zimmer PA

505 Highway 169 North, Suite 350, Minneapolis MN 55441

Telephone: 763-398-0441 / E-Mail: banderson@ckzlawfirm.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 11 and 18, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-155 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL)

In re the Estate of Susan Anne Bennett, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on March 3, 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: Kathryn Bennett Payne 423 Homeward Way

Stillwater, MN 55082

as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir 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 Date: March 4, 2026 Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 11 and 18, 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-PUBW30972-KB OPENING DATE: OPENING DATE: APRIL 09, 2026

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS, SEEKS A CONTRACTOR TO COMPLETE MAINTENANCE ON WHITAKER POND. THE SCOPE OF THE WORK INCLUDES REMOVING AND PROPERLY DISPOSING OF CONTAMINATED SEDIMENT, REPLACING THE POND OUTLET WEIR, AND REPLACING THE DRAWDOWN STRUCTURE.

SOLICITATION: RFB-PRK28800-KB

OPENING DATE: OPENING DATE: APRIL 09, 2026

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY, THROUGH THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT, SEEKS A CONTRACTOR TO CONSTRUCT A PARKING LOT AND ADA ACCESS TO WHITE BEAR ARENA.

SOLICITATION: RFB-PUBW30752-KB

OPENING

DATE: OPENING DATE: APRIL 16, 2026

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: RAMSEY COUNTY ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

STATE PROJECT NO. S.P. 062-653-017 AND 062-653-018 MINN. PROJ. NO. CMAQ-HSIP 6225(136) BID OPENING APRIL 16, 2026

Ramsey County will receive sealed electronic bids for Bid RFBPUBW30752-0-2026/KB, Dale Street – Grand Avenue to Front Street until 2:00 PM, Thursday, April 16, 2026, through DemandStar.com. Immediately thereafter, all bids will be opened publicly and read aloud via Zoom, https://zoom.us/j/102575 333?pwd=dDA2Rnk4MEtlVW9DS3k4cUplRDJIQT09

The project involves mill and overlay, signal replacements/modification, ADA improvements, pedestrian refuge islands, traffic signal interconnect, along Dale Street, in the City of Saint Paul.

Bidding documents, including the Bid Form, Drawings, and Specifications, will be available to be downloaded from DemandStar on our website at http://www. demandstar.com. A bid bond in the amount of 5% is required. Minimum wage rates to be paid by the Contractors have been predetermined and are subject to the Work Hours Act of 1962, P.L. 87-581 and implementing regulations. All prospective Bidders/respondents are hereby cautioned not to contact any member of the Ramsey County Staff or officials other than the specified contact person in the Ramsey County Procurement Department in St. Paul.

Minimum wage rates to be paid by the Contractors have been predetermined and are subject to the Work Hours Act of 1962, P.L. 87-581 and implementing regulations.

READ CAREFULLY THE WAGE SCALES AND DIVISION A OF THE SPECIAL PROVISIONS AS THEY AFFECT THIS/THESE PROJECT/ PROJECTS

The Minnesota Department of Transportation hereby notifies all bidders: in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Act), as amended and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Subtitle A Part 21, Non-discrimination in Federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation, it will affirmatively assure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded maximum opportunity to participate and/or to submit bids in response to this invitation, and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, disability, age, religion, sex or national origin in consideration for an award; in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, and Title 23, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 230 Subpart A-Equal Employment Opportunity on Federal and Federal-Aid Construction Contracts (including supportive services), it will affirmatively assure increased participation of minority groups and disadvantaged persons and women in all phases of the highway construction industry, and that on any project constructed pursuant to this advertisement equal employment opportunity will be provided to all persons without regard to their race, color, disability, age, religion, sex or national origin; in accordance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act, Minnesota Statute 363A.08 Unfair discriminatory Practices, it will affirmatively assure that on any project constructed pursuant to this advertisement equal employment opportunity will be offered to all persons without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, disability, sexual orientation, or age; in accordance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act, Minnesota Statute 363A.36 Certificates of Compliance for Public Contracts, and 363A.37 Rules for Certificates of Compliance, it will assure that appropriate parties to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement possess valid Certificates of Compliance.

If you have employed more than 40 full-time employees in any state, on any single working day during the previous 12 months, you must have a compliance certificate issued by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights to bid on any job in this advertisement. Please contact the Department of Human Rights immediately if you need assistance in obtaining a certificate.

If you are not a current holder of a compliance certificate issued by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights and intend to bid on any job in this advertisement you must contact the Department of Human Rights immediately for assistance in obtaining a certificate.

The following notice from the Minnesota Department of Human Rights applies to all contractors:

“It is hereby agreed between the parties that Minnesota Statute, section 363A.36 and Minnesota Rules, parts 5000.3400 to 5000.3600 are incorporated into any contract between these parties based on this specification or any modification of it. A copy of Minnesota Statute 363A.36 and Minnesota Rules, parts 5000.3400 to 5000.3600 is available upon request from the contracting agency.”

“It is hereby agreed between the parties that this agency will require affirmative action requirements be met by contractors in relation to Minnesota Statute 363A.36 and Minnesota Rules 5000.3600. Failure by a contractor to implement an affirmative action plan or make a good faith effort shall result in revocation of its certificate or revocation of the contract (Minnesota Statute 363A.36, Subd. 2 and 3).”

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18, 2026. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-184

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

In re the Estate of John Gregory Eichten, Sr., a/k/a John G. Eichten and John Eichten, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an application for informal probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s Last Will dated March 18, 2023 (“Will”) has been filed with the Court, and the application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following:

Alison B. Eichten

30 South Fenton Street Lakewood, CO 80226

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.

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Theresa Ames, Court Administrator

Date: March 10, 2026

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18 and 25, 2026. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-179

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF CO-PERSONAL

Thomas Donald Sullivan, Decedent

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, April 14, 2026, from 9:15 a.m until 9:30 a.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated September 28, 2022 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Karyn Colombo & Brian Sullivan, whose addresses are 5118 West 105th Street, Bloomington, MN 55437 & 2250 Veterans Memorial Boulevard Northwest, Andover, Minnesota 55304, as co-personal representatives of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

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

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

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5. NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

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

BY THE COURT:

Theresa Ames, Court Administrator

BY: Benjamin Linker, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: March 3, 2026

Attorney for Petitioner

Joseph S. Mayers

Attorney No. 0295747

KELM & REUTER, P.A. 1287 2nd Street North, Suite 101 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 (320) 251-1423

kelmreuter@kelmreuter.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on March 18 and 25, 2026.

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

MINUTES - FEBRUARY 17, 2026

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:00 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Miller, Moran, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Stacey D’Andrea, Assistant County Attorney, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

AGENDA of February 17, 2026 was presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by McMurtrey. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of February 10, 2026 were presented for approval. Motion by Miller, seconded by McMurtrey. Unanimously approved.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Jebens-Singh. PROCLAMATION

Human Resources – Proclamation: Black History Month. Presented by Commissioner McMurtrey and Commissioner Moran. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Public Works – State Aid Variance Request for Little Canda Road Improvements. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-030)

Social Services – Amendment to the Single Source Agreement with 4Mativ Technologies, Inc. for Foster Care Student Transportation Management Services. Motion by Jebens-Singh, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2026-031)

Housing Stability – Transfer Local Affordable Housing Aid Funds from Community and Economic Development to Housing Stability. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2026-032)

Housing Stability – Grant Acceptance and Agreement to Comply with the Terms of the Agreement with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development and the city of Saint Paul for the Emergency Solutions Grant. Motion by McMurtrey, seconded by Miller. Unanimously approved. (B2026-033)

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Presented by Commissioner McGuire. Discussion can be found on archived video.

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

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

OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

Discussion can be found on archived video.

BOARD CHAIR UPDATE

Presented by Chair Ortega. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT

Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:41 a.m.

CLOSED MEETING

Pursuant to Minnesota Statues 13D.05, Subdivision 3(c)(3) (to develop or consider offers or counter offers for the purchase or sale of real property), the Ramsey County Board met in a closed meeting, which was not open to the public.

Re: 160 East Kellogg Blvd.

The Closed Meeting was called to order at 2:04 p.m.

Present: Commissioners Jebens-Singh, McGuire, McMurtrey, Moran, Xiong, and Chair Ortega. Commissioner Miller joined the board meeting remotely pursuant to Minnesota Statues 13D.02, Subdivision 2. Also present: Ling Becker, County Manager; Alex Kotze, Deputy County Manger, County Operations Service Team; Kari Collins, Deputy County Manager, Economic Growth and Community Investment Service Team; Jean Krueger, Director, Property Management; Chris Gliedman, CBRE Group; Scott Schwahn, Assistant County Attorney, County Attorney’s Office; Cheryl Judge, Manager, Property Management; Deanna Pesik, Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer, Compliance and Ethics Office; Jason Patten, Risk Manager, Compliance and Ethics Office; Jason Yang, Chief Clerk, County Manager’s Office. Motion by Commissioner McMurtrey; seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. The Board of Ramsey County Commissioners resolved to: 1) Pursue negotiations with the selected contractor; 2) Execute the letter of intent; 3) Negotiate a purchase and sale agreement with the selected contractor; 4) If unsuccessful pursue letter of intent and purchase and sale agreement with the other contractor, or with a new interested party if the offer is at or above $3,500,000