White Bear Press

Press Publications 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110

White Bear Lake Dental

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 9 CIRCLE PINES, MN

Specializing in cosmetic dentistry & same day crowns!

DR. JOY JOHNSON

651-653-3802

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2025

823437.

4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

VOL. 130 NO. 13 www.whitebearpress.com $1.00

SPECIAL TO THE PRESS: The day I met Jimmy Carter PAGE 5

Steering committee will present parking, mobility study to council

Township plans road improvements

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

WHITE BEAR LAKE — The city’s parking and mobility steering committee will present its findings to the City Council Jan. 14 following 21 months of discussion.

The city of White Bear Lake has been pursuing the downtown parking and mobility study to review pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic; evaluate current and future parking needs; and

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The White Bear Township Board will host a public hearing for two road improvement projects — Portland Woods and Anderson Lane — at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22, at Town Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road.

explore concepts for landscaping, public spaces, lighting and wayfinding.

The steering committee was organized to review the data, conduct an analysis, generate concepts and make final recommendations to the City Council. The committee consists of elected officials, downtown property and business owners, city commission members, civic organization representatives, residents and city staff.

CONTRIBUTED

SEE STEERING COMMITTEE, PAGE 15

One concept considered in the report is to close the access to Third Street from Highway 61.

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Portland Woods

Portland Woods, an offshoot of Portland Avenue, was originally constructed in 1988, then sealed in both 2005 and 2011. During 2024’s feasibility study, Portland Woods scored 0.8 out of 5 on MnDOT’s pavement condition rating, which is a “very poor” rating.

The township, pending a public hearing, has plans for a “reclamation-size” project.

The project would involve recycling salvageable road material and mixing it with new asphalt. Such an option is significantly less expensive than using all-new material, according to Town Engineer Larry Poppler.

Additionally, the monolithic curb and gutter will be replaced with “surmountable curb,” which gently slopes.

The gentle slope makes the road easier for cars and bicycles to drive over. The entrance to the road will also be widened, although trees and utilities bar prohibit the widening of the road itself.

Preliminary total project cost is projected at $464,300 with assessments estimated at $12,000 per unit.

Anderson Lane

Near Centerville Road, Anderson Lane was constructed in 1986. Like Portland Woods, Anderson Lane was sealed in both 2005 and 2011 and scored a “very poor” rating during its 2024 feasibility study.

Evolving lake ice conditions A skater was spotted recently practicing on one of the rinks along Lake Avenue near the shore of White Bear Lake. Following a string of above freezing days in December, a cold snap featuring single digit temperatures in January has helped solidify and thicken the frozen surface of the lake. According to forecasts, the below freezing temperatures are expected to continue through the week.

SEE TOWNSHIP HEARING, PAGE 12

Oil Change & Tire Factory ScheduledRotation Maintenance

Any Service -Up to-

CERTIFIED

Semi-Synthetic Starting at just $99 Full service

FrontFactory or Rear Scheduled Maintenance Brake Service

Starting at just $99

$ Everyday Low Price. $29.90 149 Spray in Bed-Liners • Complete Auto Repair Spray xt Generation of Auto Repair Vehicle Accessories • Automotive Detailingin Bed-Liners • Complete Auto Repair $49.90 Ryan & Nicole Podewils Owned and Operated Vehicle Accessories • Automotive Detailing rship level•service withOwned personaland feel! Operated .90 $ Family 29 16 $89.90 19Oil Change & $ .90 Reg rvice Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair.

• Dealership level service with personal Tire feel! Rotation $50.89 NEW 16 • Full service Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair.

Tire Rotation

40 * The Next Generation of Auto Repair OFF Oil Change & CERTIFIED

$

Find us on Facebook for More Great Deals!

Pod’s Offers Free Wireless Internet While You Wait!

Full Synthetic

Find us on Facebook for More Great Deals!

Find us on Facebook for More Great Deals!

Pod’s Offers Free Wireless Internet While You Wait!

823696

Years of Excellence

Extended Hours & Saturday OPEN: Monday – FridayHours • 8am-6pm Mon - Fri3634 8am-8pm 9am-2pm Scheuneman •Rd.Saturday • White Bear Lake, MN • (651) 426-4640

Everyday Low Price. oil change

Pod’s Offers Free Wireless Internet While You Wait!

*Based on 10% of service.

Some restrictions may apply.

Exp. 1/31/25

Up to 5 quarts semi synthetic oil. Most cars 3634 Scheuneman Rd.restrictions | White Bear may Lake and light trucks. Some apply.

Exp5/1/12 • 651-426-4640 WBC110 Pod’s 651-426-4640

Find us on Facebook for More Great Deals!

Prem Synthetic

Pod’s Offers Free Wireless Internet While You Wait!

(up to 5 qts) & Tire Rotation 21-point inspections Top off all fluids Reg Most cars and $50.89 light trucks

Semi synthetic oil (up to qts) Exp.1/31/25 Some restrictions may5 apply.

Tire Rotation • 3634 21-point inspections Scheuneman Rd. | White Bear Lake WBC110 Top off all fluids • 651-426-4640 MM100

NEW Extended Hours & Saturday Hours Spring Maintenance Special Mon - Fri 8am-8pm • Saturday 9am-2pm

Complete Brake Service Labor (Includes free brake inspection)

Standard brake service: Replace brake pads or shoes. Clean and lube brake hardware. Parts will be additional.

19

Some restrictions may apply. Exp.1/31/25

WBC110

3634 Scheuneman Rd. | White Bear Lake • 651-426-4640

Semi synthetic oil (up to 5 qts)

Up to 5 quarts semi synthetic oil. Most cars This is a different kind of repair center Tire Rotation • 21-point inspections and light trucks. Some restrictions may and we think you are going to like it! apply. Exp5/1/12 Top off all fluids Coolant Flush • 4 Tire Rotate • Transmission CIRCULATION NEWSFlush Tire ADVERTISING CLASSIFIED Pod’s 651-426-4640 MM100

s is your one shop for all r automotive needs..

169 Maintenance Special Spring

$

Balance Check • Brake Inspection

651-407-1234 651-407-1230 651-407-1200 651-407-1250 Every vehicle a 21-point Off All Fluids • Battery & Charging Systems Test This is a receives different kind of Top repair center circ@presspubs.com Air Conditioning whitebearnews@presspubs.com marketing@presspubs.com classified@presspubs.com safety and maintenance Performance Test Reg $275 and weasthink are going tolightlike it! extra. Some restrictions may apply. Exp5/1/12 Most cars and trucks. Dex-cool inspection well asyou a vacuum.

Pod’s 651-426-4640 Coolant Flush MM101 • 4 Tire Rotate • Transmission Flush Tire

25 OFF

99

Pothole SPecial $ Complete Every vehicle receives a 21-point $ Save Your Tires & Pod’s is your one Brake Service e offer full

Balance Check • Brake Inspection $ Off All Fluids • *Battery & Charging Systems Test Top

up to

60 OFF

169

$

GET UP TO A

$60 REBATE When you buy 4 qualifying tires.

Valid 1/1/25 to 2/28/25 CALL RETAILER FOR MORE DETAILS PRODUCTION 651-407-1239 art@presspubs.com

2 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

Your Local Remodeling, Custom Home & Storm Damage Experts.

Gregory Contracting

MARVIN

651-213-0668 • gregorycontracting.com

823859 794607

®

License: BC692167

No Place Like Home.

No Time Like the Present

Spacious One- and Two-Bedroom Apartments

We're here for you Haven't been flossing? No judgement Don't have insurance? Not a problem.

Just consider us your partner in the life­ long journey to a happy, healthy smile.

Promise to make the commitment?

We understand and we can help!

2022

of the Press

of the Press

White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

Receive a FREE Sonicare at your first visit by mentioning the White Bear Press when scheduling!

BEST OF THE PRESS White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

Too often, Seniors put up with a poor bite, missing teeth, problems with eating, bad dentures, or an unattractive smile. They just don’t realize that modern dentistry can offer options to more economically improve function, comfort, and cosmetics.

Voted "Best Dentist" 4 years in a row!

Sarah Boo, DDS PA

Call us, and let us go over your options with you. You may be pleasantly surprised!

FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

651-426-8998

WhiteBearSmiles.com

651.426.2116

Family and Cosmetic Dentistry 4916 Highway 61, White Bear Lake

2024

WINNER Best of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

drsarahboo.com 823436

Google us and discover why White Bear Smiles is a top choice in the community!

823432

2023

WINNER Best of the Press

2250 6th St, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 LakeSquareApts@outlook.com Schedule a visit: 651-426-2876 lakesquareapts.com

SENIORS!

Wedo.

2024

A Community for Active Seniors

823433

Location, Location, Location in beautiful Downtown White Bear Lake

WHAT’S HAPPENING www.presspubs.com

Avenue, Maplewood Details: Hike paved trails, streets and a short boardwalk, approximately 5 miles.

Contact: stpaulhike.com

World Snow Sculpting Championship

When: Jan. 15-26 Where: Lowell Park, Stillwater Details: Competition brings top snow sculptors from around the world. Walk through the finished sculptures, visit the indoor market and concessions tent, and listen to live music at the block party Saturday from 6:30-9 p.m. Full list of activities online.

Contact: worldsnowsculptingstillwatermn.com

CONTRIBUTED

MAHTOMEDI OUTDOOR SKATE PARTY When: Noon - 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center ice rink Details: Celebrate winter with community skating party, bonfire, hot beverages and food. No registration required; check website for weather updates.

Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo

Divas Gone Country

Where: Normandy Park Education Center, 2482 County Road F E., White Bear Lake Details: 20+ farmers and vendors sharing locally-grown food and crafted items and gifts. Most booths inside; firepit and hot cider outdoors.

Contact: forksinthedirt.com/winterfarmers-market

White Bear Lake Winter Farmers Market

St. Paul Hiking Club

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10 Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake Details: Musical trio celebrates the sounds of America's Heartland and favorite rock hits. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12 Where: Costco parking lot, 1431 Beam

When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11

ion

... ers WS mm

County Road E Corridor Action Plan Open House

When: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16 Where: White Bear Lake Fire Station #2, 2240 County Road E East Details: Learn more about the latest phase of the County Road E Corridor Action Plan and share feedback about County Road E branding concepts. Open to the public. Hosted by the Cities of White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights and Gem Lake.

Contact: whitebearlake.org

Snowshoe at the Winery

When: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17; and select Fridays and Saturdays in Jan. & Feb. Where: 7 Vines Vineyard, Dellwood Details: Explore the vineyard on snowshoes. Guided walk lined with ice luminaries. Live music, bonfire, mulled wine and Bingo. Registration information online.

Contact: mywahooadventures.com

Translations:

E lI ts G N Dua den

Para Español por favor llame al 651-407-7625 Xav tau ntawv Hmoob hu rau 651-407-7623

u h ITIN anis ry st

EXCing a S ementa p r el

GO DISCOVER.

nch lau am fo e r ’ r We prog

WHY BE A BEAR?

Design Your Future.

Create Your Success.

FOLLOW WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS

/ isd624

• Student-centered instruction. We believe all students grow and learn in different ways and at different rates, all can achieve.

• More academic opportunities to explore interests, excel and design your future.

• Students are agents and owners of their own learning in an environment that is safe, supportive and challenging — with high expectations for student success.

• Our educators inspire, facilitate, and challenge students, nurturing curiosity and confidence. We provide a window to their future.

• We are transforming learning. Our flexible learning spaces and learning studios ignite opportunities for communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

3

SCHOOL BRIEF Schools host welcome events for prospective families

The White Bear Area Schools are hosting special opportunities for families to learn about early childhood programs during the month of January. “Welcome to White Bear” open houses will be held will be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4 at Birch Lake, Lakeaires, Oneka, Otter Lake, Vadnais, and Willow Lane elementary schools, and at Normandy Park Education Center.

A preschool open house will also be held from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Feb. 11 at Tamarack Nature Center.

For additional information about the early childhood program, go to isd624.org/academics/earlychildhood.

Additionally, the District is launching a new Spanish Dual Immersion Program in the fall of 2025 at two elementary schools, Otter Lake and Matoska International. Families across the district will be able to choose this immersion option during kindergarten registration. The program is designed to serve both Spanish-speaking and nonSpanish-speaking students in a bilingual environment. Tours are scheduled at Matoska and Otter Lake from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 8 and Thursday, Jan. 9. For information on the immersion program, go to isd624. org/academics/immersion.

Stay Connected •

E-Newsletter - The Community e-Newsletter is sent out each week, with alternating text and video editions.

Text editions cover student and staff successes, school and Community Education offerings, and School Board proceedings. Request to be added to the list by sending an email to us at communications@isd624.org.

•

Construction Updates - Find updates about the construction projects happening throughout the district at isd624.org/BuildingOurFuture.

•

Stay Social - Join the district’s social media circles Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for daily 624 Fact posts and weekly video share-outs. Find links on the District’s website.

WE ARE HIRING! Find info at isd624.org/employment Competitive wages / On the job training Chance to work near home / Flexible work hours Opportunity for: benefits, time off, holidays Make a difference for kids in your community

KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT IS NOW OPEN!

White Bear Lake Area Schools

823440 822825

JANUARY 8, 2025

OPINION

4 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

www.presspubs.com

JANUARY 8, 2025

Meeting Jimmy Carter

I

have fond memories of our 39th president of the United States which go back to 1977 when he was elected. I was included among six publishers of community weekly newspapers from around the United States to visit with President Carter in the Oval Office to share conditions of the state of the country from a small town perspective.

It was an awesome, almost speechless, experience. I had voted for this president for his fundamental character and Christian principles. He set out to make government competent and compassionate. As we all remember, was a time of inflation and a About the itdifficult time to meet those high expectations.

Town Another one of our favorite Gene Johnson memories includes visiting Plains, GA, while our daughter, Stephanie, spent a year with Habitat for Humanity in nearby Americus, GA. We would visit with Stephanie and go to the president’s church in Plains and sit in on the service as well as his Sunday school class. We were even there on his 70th birthday and had a family picture taken with him.

Jimmy Carter’s contributions were perhaps most significant following his presidency for his leadership in brokering peace and conflict mediation throughout the world.

He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.

Carter was the author of 32 books, and he his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center in Atlanta, GA. President Carter decided to spend his remaining time at his home with his family and receive hospice careat age 100, he was the longest-lived president in U.S. history.

FILE

This photo of our family in 1995 at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, GA where former President Jimmy Carter attended church and taught a Sunday School class.

Following the church service on August 20, the Carters posed with the attenders. Left to right: Kathy Johnson, Rosalynn Carter, President Jimmy Carter, Meredith Johnson, Stephanie Johnson, Melva Struckmann and Gene Johnson.

Gene Johnson is publisher emeritus of Press Publications.

Editor’s note: Press Publications is re-running Gene Johnson’s column about meeting Jimmy Carter, in honor of his passing.

President James Earl Carter Funeral Information:

Wednesday, Jan. 8—Jimmy Carter lies in state at U.S. Capital Thursday, Jan. 9—Jimmy Carter is laid to rest

Distributed weekly in: White Bear Lake • White Bear Township • Mahtomedi Birchwood • Dellwood • Willernie • Gem Lake Pine Springs • Portions of Grant • Vadnais Heights

www.presspubs.com 651-407-1200 DISCLAIMER: Paid advertisements appear in Press Publications’ publications, including print and other digital formats.

Press Publications does not endorse or evaluate the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. Advertising does not influence editorial decisions or content. Press Publications reserves the right to refuse, reject, or cancel any ad for any reason at any time without liability.

I

Owl and fisher with a side of fox

t’s a quarter past ten and a great horned owl is softly hooting outside my bedroom window.

Hoo hoo hoo hoo. Pause. Hoo hoo hoo hoo. Is it an omen of bad luck or a talisman for good fortune?

A shape-shifter? Protector for my army as I prepare to enter battle?

Perhaps it’s just a fluffy bird that likes to eat mice and sing sad songs at night.

Great horned owls are one of twelve species of owl that call Minnesota home, and Movers & they’re common the Shakers throughout state. Famous for their silent flight, Angie Hong great eyesight, and uncanny ability to turn their heads 270 degrees, a great horned owl can also eat more than 4,000 mice per year, a statistic that makes them a great addition for any backyard. Great horned owls will take over abandoned squirrel, crow, and hawk nests and are well-adapted to living with people.

In fact, wildlife biologists believe that they may be more common now than they were in pre-colonial times.

Another family of animals that is making a comeback in Minnesota are the mustelids. These slender and adorable (though entirely ferocious) animals include weasels,

minks, martens, fishers, otters, badgers, and wolverines. Minks and otters are water-loving mammals, while martens and fishers are forest dwellers. Badgers prefer prairies and open areas, and weasels are found throughout the state. The last known wolverine in Minnesota was seen in Itasca County in 1899, but biologists believe that they once lived here in the most remote reaches of the northern forests.

Unfortunately, martens, fishers and otters were hard-hit by trapping and lost most of their woodland habitat during the 1800s logging era. By the early 1900s, martens and fishers were nearly extinct and otters had disappeared from southern Minnesota. Now, however, all three animals have rebounded and are expanding their territories.

In the example of martens and fishers, populations have climbed as second growth forests continue to grow and mature in New England and the Upper Midwest. More protective rules for hunting and trapping have helped as well. This year, I’ve heard reports of fishers in Afton, Stillwater and Scandia, and the Minnesota DNR notes that fisher sightings are up in southeastern Minnesota as well. A fisher was found in northeastern Ohio this spring for the first time in nearly 200 years.

In southwestern Minnesota, Minnesota DNR Biologist Carrol Henderson led a successful effort to reintroduce river otters to the

Minnesota River Valley between Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge and Lac qui Parle Wildlife Refuge in 1980-82. In subsequent years, otters have also found their way back to southeastern Minnesota, using the Mississippi River as a habitat corridor.

One last animal enjoying a renaissance in our modern-day era is the red fox, which lives throughout Minnesota, including in the Twin Cities area. Though foxes will usually avoid people, I’ve recently seen one in my front yard and another in my Stillwater neighborhood. Unlike their larger canine relatives, foxes only weigh 8-15 pounds and are not dangerous to humans. They eat rats and mice, rabbits, ground squirrels, birds, snakes, fish, insects, berries nuts, and seeds. As a redhead, I feel a natural affinity for foxes and am always excited to see them.

Be not afraid if you hear an owl hoot gently in the night or see a bushy-tailed fox in the woods.

Instead, celebrate the fact that nature is resilient and that forests and wildlife return.

Angie Hong is the coordinator for Minnesota’s East Metro Water Resource Education Program, a local government partnership with 31 members in Washington, Ramsey, Chisago and Isanti Counties.

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES • Submissions containing at least four weeks must • Limited to 350 words. libelous or derogatory lapse between publication.

• Submissions must Include statements will not be Exceptions may be made for a full name, address and published. rebuttal letters. daytime phone number for • Submissions containing • Due to space limitations, verification. facts not previously letters that don’t address • Letter writers must live, work published in the Press must or have another connection to local issues are not be accompanied by factual guaranteed publication.

Press Publications coverage verification.

• Repeat letters by the same area. writer about the same subject • All letters are subject to • Letter writers are limited editing. matter will not be published. to six letters per year and Carter C. Johnson - Publisher cjohnson@presspubs.com Gene Johnson - Publisher Emeritus ppinfo@presspubs.com Patty Steele - General Manager marketing@presspubs.com Chris Raaymakers -Multimedia Advertising Director media@presspubs.com Shannon Granholm - Managing Editor whitebearnews@presspubs.com

Amy Johnson - Editorial Assistant news@presspubs.com Erik Suchy - Staff Writer lowdownnews@presspubs.com Mary Peterson - Production Manager artmanager@presspubs.com William Peter - Production Designer art@presspubs.com Paul Dols - Photo Journalist photos@presspubs.com

Circulation circ@presspubs.com Obituaries obits@presspubs.com Classifieds classified@presspubs.com Call a Specialist callaspecialist@presspubs.com

• 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.

COPYRIGHT© 2025 BY PRESS PUBLICATIONS, INC. Material may not be reproduced in whole or part in any form whatsoever.

News ......................................................651-407-1235 Advertising ...........................................651-407-1200 Circulation ............................................ 651-407-1234 Classified/Obits ................................... 651-407-1250 Production ............................................ 651-407-1239 FAX ....................................................... 651-429-1242

Published Wednesdays by Press Publications, Inc. 4779 Bloom Avenue White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Office Hours: Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Friday, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Mailed Subscription Rate: $52.00 per year.

Subscribe online at presspubs.com

JANUARY 8, 2025 www.presspubs.com

5

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

LETTERS TO EDITOR

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Just a thought

It's undeniably one of economist Milton Friedman's most famous sayings about the failures of central planning: "If you put the federal government in charge of the Sahara Desert, in five years there'd be a shortage of sand."

Dave Brockel White Bear Township

Save the dog beach

The Nov. 27 issue of White Bear Press informed us that the city council is once again discussing the fate of the dog beach. This beloved space has been a community-founded area, serving as a dog beach long before the city officially recognized it in 2007.

Proponents of closure often cite stories of poorly behaved visitors, but where is the hard evidence? The only verifiable fact we have is

When cold weather strikes, so can thieves

that the dog beach is less polluted than the human beaches. The truth is this area was already serving as a dog beach long before its formal designation.

So, to those advocating for closure, I ask: What is your plan? Will you propose fencing the area off from public use? Will you hire security to monitor it and turn away all dogs?

Simply closing the dog beach seems shortsighted and unlikely to satisfy anyone.

Let’s save our dog beach. Let’s demand that those pushing for its closure provide concrete proof that it is the “horrible menace” they claim it to be.

To this end, I have started the Save White Bear Dog Beach campaign. Visit https:// savewhitebearbeach.dog to join the fight.

As cold weather approaches, many drivers will want to warm up their vehicles before hitting the road. It may seem like good idea to start the car, blast the heat and wait inside until it’s time to leave, but it can also be a dangerous one. In fact, in some states and municipalities, warming up a vehicle and leaving it unattended is illegal.

During the winter, thieves are on the lookout for vehicles that are “puffing”.

Puffing refers to the practice of leaving a vehicle running while unattended.

Conner McCall White Bear Lake

As the vehicle’s exhaust runs, it will emit puffs of steam when warming up, making it an easy target.

With no one around to stop them, and the key already in the ignition, criminals only need to hop in and drive off. Unfortunately, insurance may not cover the cost of the theft because it was the owner that left the vehicle running.

Thankfully, there is a solution. Remote starters that allow car owners to start the engine while keeping the vehicle safely locked up, without the presence of a key or fob, are usually considered a safe alternative.

The day I met President Jimmy Carter

BY JULIA TRUSO SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

CONTRIBUTED

George Truso, Nicholas Truso, First Lady Rosalynn Carter, Julia Truso, President Jimmy Carter and Taylor Truso.

with enough passengers to fill most of the pews in the small church. There weren’t enough seats for me and my family to get in, so we waited outside the church and waved to President

White Bear Lake Area

Julia Truso is a fifth grade student at Saint Jude of the Lake Catholic School in Mahtomedi.

Church Directory redeeminglovechurch.com

St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church

Worship: Sunday, 9am & 10:30am Wednesday, 6:30pm Daily prayer meetings and Spiritual Growth classes throughout the week. Call the church office for more information.

2175 1st Street, WBL 55110 | 651.429.5351

Sundays

804657

8:00am In-person Holy Eucharist 10am In-person & Livestream Holy Eucharist

stjohnwilderness.org

After the church service, we were invited to meet President and Mrs. Carter. President Carter asked me my name and when I told him it was “Julia,” his face lit up and he told me that his favorite teacher was named “Miss Julia.” I think that’s really cool, because I want to be a kindergarten teacher when I grow up!

I am sad that President Carter has died. He was a very nice man! It’s amazing that he lived to be 100 years old! I’m so glad that I got to meet him and Mrs. Carter. I pray that they are reunited in Heaven.

2425 White Bear Avenue • Maplewood • 651-777-5200 White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church

rlcstpaul

All Are Welcome!

9am Traditions | 10am online | 10:45am New Crossings 1851 Birch St | WBL 55110 | wblumc.org

815024

751042

In the spring of 2018, I had a very special experience. I got to meet former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, at their church in Plains, Georgia.

It’s not very well known, but after President Carter left the White House, he returned to his hometown in Georgia and was very active in his church. On most Sundays before the regular Sunday service, President Carter, or “Mr. Jimmy” as he was affectionately called in church, would teach Sunday School. There are only a few dozen members of his church, so most of his Sunday School students were people visiting from other places.

On this Sunday, a tour bus arrived

Carter as he walked in from the parking lot.

That’s when something amazing happened! A very kind Secret Service Agent named Clint Bush came over and introduced himself. He was interested to learn that we had come all the way from Minnesota to see President Carter and he was sad that we couldn’t fit inside the church.

But it turned out that he had a trick up his sleeve. Actually, it was a hidden radio up his sleeve, but the result was still magical! After getting the “okay” from “Miss Jan,” the head church lady (who joked that she outranks the Secret Service on church grounds), we were let in the back doors of the church and given seats in the choir stalls right behind President Carter for Sunday School!

A Welcoming & Inclusive Faith Community

OF THE LAKE

All Are Welcome!

Sunday 9:00 AM worship in person/on-line Adult Bible Study 8:00 AM

806529

St.Jude

3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 www.cslcvh.org / 651-429-6595

CHURCH OF ST. PIUS X

Christ the King Lutheran Church

651-429-7771 Opt 1

1660 Birch Lake Ave., White Bear Lake

www.stmarys-wbl.org

(Just off Hwy 96 & Otter Lake Road)

Church: 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake Parish Life Center/School: 4690 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake

787263

office@ctkwbl.org | 651-429-4828

Masses: Saturday - 5:00 PM Livestream Sunday - 9:00 & 11:00 AM 752983

9 am worship in person & online at www.ctkwbl.org.

Reconciliation: Wednesday 5:00-5:45 PM, Thursday 8:45-9:15 AM, Saturday 3:15-3:35 PM, Sunday 6:00-6:20 PM

794438

785863 764532

3878 Highland Avenue White Bear Lake • 651-429-5337 www.churchofstpiusx.org Masses: Sunday 9:30 AM & 6:30 PM, Monday, Thursday, & Friday, 8:00 AM, Wednesday 6:00 PM, Saturday 4:00 PM

Service times are subject to change. Contact your local church or check church web sites for service times and online service information.

823428

818979

5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381 • www.fpcwbl.org 5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381• www.fpcwbl.org

787260

Children 5 years to 5th grade may participate in Children’s Church during worship.

Daily Mass Tuesday, 6:00 pm, Wednesday & Friday, 9:00 am Thursday, 9:00 am (Jun - Aug), 9:15 am (Sep - May) Weekend Masses Saturday, 4:30 pm.

Sunday, 9:00 am.

CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL Sunday, 11:00 am.

Sacrament of Reconciliation: www.stjudeofthelake.org Friday 7:45 - 8:45 am Saturdays 3:30 - 4:30 pm 651-426-3245 | 700 Mahtomedi Avenue, Mahtomedi By appointment

794295

10:15 am in-person Worship Livestreaming on and Live-streaming on YouTube: YouTube:FPCWBL FPCWBL

Christ the Servant Lutheran Church

809666

Sunday Worship Join us on Sunday:

791454 763580

763244

9 & 11am Sunday Services | In-Person & Online | 10am: https://wbuuc.org/sunday-worship

6 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

COPS&COURTS www.presspubs.com

JANUARY 8, 2025

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • A White Bear Lake man was arrested for domestic assault in the 2400 block of Gisella Blvd Dec. 25.

• A suspicious person was reported in the area near Highway 61 and County Road E Dec. 25.

• A vehicle window was shattered while parked in the 2100 block of Division Court Dec. 25.

• Officers responded to a disorderly conduct incident in the 3800 block of Hoffman Road Dec. 26.

• Property damage was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E Dec. 26.

• A garage burglary was reported in the 3600 block of Auger Avenue Dec. 26.

• Officers responded to a family dispute in the 1700 block of Fourth Street Dec. 26.

• A White Bear Lake resident was arrested for an active felony warrant following a traffic stop in the 3200 block of Highway 61 Dec. 27.

• A Blaine resident was arrested for DWI and child endangerment following a traffic stop near Interstate 694 and Highway 61 Dec. 28.

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 1700 block of Fourth Street Dec. 28.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road Dec, 28.

• A man was issued a citation for misdemeanor theft in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Dec. 29.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3100

block of Glen Oaks Avenue Dec. 29.

• Officers responded to a disturbance in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Dec. 29.

• Milk was stolen from a store in the 1400 block of Highway 96 Dec. 30.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested at the police station Dec. 30 for an outstanding misdemeanor arrest warrant.

• Officers assisted with a large group of disgruntled persons at a business in the 3000 block of White Bear Avenue Dec. 30.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3600 block of McKnight Road Dec. 31.

• Fraud was reported in the 4500 block of Centerville Road Dec. 31.

after deputies conducted a traffic stop for people in the vehicle not wearing seatbelts and conducted a computer check of the occupants.

A Vadnais Heights man, 26, was arrested on a felony warrant for robbery at 12:04 a.m. Sept. 3 in the 1100 block of County Road E after Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to the report of a domestic fight. His arrest also included his violation of an order for protection resulting from that fight.

A Chisago City man, 47, was arrested for assault at 2:02 a.m. Sept. 9 in the 4200 block of Bridgewood Terrace, after a Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert was issued for him. It all started when he barged into the home of his ex-girlfriend, assaulted her and another adult male, and left before deputies arrived.

Deputies were dispatched out to a retail business in the 900 block of County Road E at 8:49 p.m. March 27 after employees reported a woman for coming into the store, loading up with stolen merchandise and leaving the store before realizing she'd “misplaced her cell phone during the plundering”. When she returned to the store (in “the postman rings twice” fashion) to retrieve her phone, she became verbally abusive. It was not disclosed whether store employees held her phone hostage until she gave the merchandise back, or whether deputies arrived in time to cite and/or trespass her.

A Little Canada woman reported that someone stole her wallet July 11 while she was shopping at Marshall's in the 900 block of County Road E. Video surveillance showed the suspect crawling under a clothes rack, reaching up and snatching the wallet while the victim's attention was directed elsewhere. The thief then fled the area.

The proof is there, whenever law enforcement catches up to the suspect.

A Vadnais Heights man, 43, was arrested on an active warrant July 16 while committing another crime, after deputies responded to the report of a burglary in the 700 block of Parkside Drive and found him at the scene.

An Oakdale man, 21, was cited July 29 after he was seen by store employees in the 900 block of County Road E stealing several pairs of sneakers.

He managed to escape the store without being caught, but officers of another agency located him nearby.

A Forest Lake man, 64, was arrested at 2:21 a.m.

July 30 in the 3900 block of Labore Road, after deputies responded to a burglary report. His accomplice was not apprehended, after the two suspects fled on foot. Video surveillance footage of the incident was captured, so the other suspect may not be incognito for long.

A Vadnais Heights man, 42, was arrested Aug. 5 in the 1400 block of County Road E after he fraudulently purchased a motorcycle and the paperwork caught up with him.

Caught skipping school. A suspicious person reported on a roof in the 800 block of Berwood Avenue at 12:46 p.m. Oct. 10 turned out to be a girl, 16, who appeared to be hiding out on the neighbor's roof until her father left for the day so that she could skip out of school.

A Vadnais Heights man, 24, was arrested Oct 13 for assault in the 3500 block of Vadnais Center Drive, after he pushed the mother of his child during a custody exchange and a Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert was issued for him.

A Vadnais Heights man, 61, was arrested for third-degree DWI at 7:11 p.m. Oct. 22, after he was

found racing through a trailer park in the 100 block of Skyline Drive in a pickup truck.

A St. Paul man, 20, was arrested for DWI in the 3400 block of Rice Street after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a drunk driver at 8:58 p.m. Oct. 25. A St. Paul man, 22, was also arrested for DWI at the same location at 9:18 p.m.

Oct. 25, after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of a property damage auto accident.

An unidentified person was arrested for DWI Nov. 20, following a hit-and-run accident in the intersection of Vadnais Blvd. E. and Vadnais Blvd. W. As expected, the arrested party was the culprit who drove off without stopping, before being caught.

Recognition — and not the good kind. A White Bear Lake man, 60, was cited for theft Nov. 24 after he tried to steal more than $450 worth of merchandise from the Kwik Trip in the 3200 block of Highway 61. The man, who is known to store employees, grabbed a large box intended for donation collections and filled it up with armfuls of candy valued at more than $456 before making a break for it. Luckily, store employees were on to him, because they apprehended him before he could leave the store.

Catching herself. A Vadnais Heights woman, 40, was arrested on a warrant Nov. 24 at the intersection of Mayfair Road and Twin Lake Blvd. after she phoned RCSO deputies to turn herself in.

YEAR IN REVIEW CATCHING THE BAD GUYS (and the ways it can happen) Vadnais Heights Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies have advanced tools and training to aid them in arresting suspects who need to be brought in. But most of the time, help from citizens, help from the criminals themselves and pure serendipity can bring about an arrest.

A Minneapolis woman, 44, was arrested on an active motor vehicle theft warrant Feb. 14, after she called 911 to report that she needed medical attention. When Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to her call in the 700 block of Berwood Avenue W., they found her to be heavily intoxicated, and assisted Emergency Medical Services personnel in transporting her to hospital. She was treated at the hospital before being transported to jail and booked.

A 28-year-old Almena, Wisconsin, woman was arrested Feb. 22 in the 900 block of County Road E for check fraud and receiving stolen property after a bank called 911 to report that she was attempting to cash a stolen check.

A White Bear Lake man, 34, was arrested for DWI at 2:20 a.m. March 15 at the intersection of I-694 and Edgerton Street following a traffic stop during which he performed poorly on field sobriety tests. The reason he was pulled over in the first place was that good Samaritans flagged down deputies on patrol and pointed out a driver they believed to be intoxicated.

A Vadnais Heights male, 27, was arrested for DUI March 17 at the intersection of Highway 61 and I-694 following a single-vehicle crash, after which he wandered away from the scene. Ramsey County Sheriff's Office (RCSO) deputies assisted the Minnesota State Patrol in locating the driver, who was thought to have returned home.

A St. Paul woman 34, was arrested March 17 at the intersection of I-35E and County Road E for being in possession of a stolen vehicle, following a traffic stop. Investigation of the vehicle determined it had been stolen out of Minneapolis and had been given a different vehicle identification number.

A New Brighton man, 35, was arrested on an active DWI warrant at 12:55 a.m. March 20 in the 3200 block of Highway 61, after deputies found him inside a secure storage facility without permission.

A Maplewood man, 58, was arrested March 26 in the 3500 block of Labore Road for receiving stolen property, after deputies responded to the report of a trailer loaded with snowmobiles parked in a parking lot where it should not have been left. On further investigation, deputies learned that the man in possession of the trailer had stolen it and the snowmobiles. He had parked the vehicles in the lot after a tire on the trailer blew out.

A man of no permanent address, 47, was arrested for mail theft Aug. 13, after Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies were dispatched out to the 900 block of County Road D following several 911 reports of an individual checking mailboxes and taking mail out. Deputies located the subject near a playground holding the stolen mail.

A White Bear Township woman, 40, was arrested at 3:31 a.m. Aug. 17 in the 4400 block of Otter Lake Road on several active and outstanding warrants out of Hennepin County

White Bear Township A Hugo woman, 57, was cited for shoplifting May 11 at the Cub Foods store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive after she stole a hanging plant and made a break for it when confronted by loss prevention personnel. The employees were able to take down the license plate number of her get-away vehicle when the suspect paused long enough to make an obscene gesture to them.

A Vadnais Heights man, 35, was arrested June 30 in the 5200 block of Elk Street on an active Ramsey County warrant for receiving stolen property, after deputies were called out to a report of a domestic disturbance.

Deputies on Sept. 5 arrested a male, 26, at his address in the 5500 block of Otter View Trail on an outstanding Hennepin County Sheriff's Office felony warrant for third-degree murder. Deputies try to find and arrest miscreants on warrants by first trying at their addresses. Most of the time, the suspects are not at the address, but this time, the subject was at home.

A Vadnais Heights man, 52, was arrested for shoplifting Sept. 11 at the Cub Foods store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive after loss prevention personnel reported the theft.

A Brooklyn Park man, 37, was mailed a citation for misdemeanor theft Oct. 16 after he was found to have stolen items from Cub Foods in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive. Thanks to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, deputies had an address for the suspect on file.

Calling attention to yourself. A Minneapolis woman, 40, was arrested Nov. 25 on active warrants out of Wright, Dakota and Washington counties after deputies responded to a civil dispute in the 1200 block of Bibeau Road. The subject was also issued a harassment restraining order short form.

Loretta Harding

JANUARY 8, 2025 www.presspubs.com

CHURCH BRIEF Program explores Winter Carnival history

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

7

POLITICAL BRIEF

Treasure Hunt historian Jesse Anibas will share memories of the St. Paul Winter Carnival's 'Hunt for the Medallion' at an upcoming Redeemer Primetime event at Redeemer Lutheran Church at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16.

Anibas has a wealth of stories from his

years with the Winter Carnival and will provide insight as to what has made the Carnival popular over the years.

The event is held in the atrium at Redeemer, located at 3770 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake. Those interested in attending should sign up by Jan. 12 at the church office or by phone at 651-429-5411.

Meet local legislators

The League of Women VotersWhite Bear Lake Area is hosting an opportunity to meet local legislators on Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the White Bear Lake Library.

Senator Heather Gustafson (District 36) and Representative Brion Curran

(District 36B) will be available to answer questions about upcoming bills at the legislature. Attendees can submit questions on index cards, which will be provided at the event.

For more information, visit lwvwbla.org.

RSVP

Winter Preview Day Thurs. Jan. 16 | 9 AM

823564

823750

Liberty Classical Academy | Preschool - 12th Grade

8 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS

823813

Your hometown hometown YourYour hometown Your hometown home & auto team home & auto team home & auto team home & auto team

Your hometown

Your hometown home & auto & team home auto team

®

LOCAL FAMILY LOCAL FAMILY LOCAL BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESS Agent - Brian Roelofs

Bus: 763-515-4655 scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com 2022

LOCAL FAMILY 86 Mahtomedi Ave, Suite B Mahtomedi, MN 55115 651.888.4111 LOCAL BUSINESS www.roelofsagency.com

a and get and a local agent —surprisingly all for a a call call and get a a quote quote today. greattoday. rate. Give me a quote surprisingly great rate.

Give me today. a call a call and get a quote today.and get a quote today.

BEST OF THE PRESS

2023

of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

Agent - Brian Roelofs

State Insurance Company StateAutomobile Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Farm Mutual Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Farm Mutual Insurance Company State Indemnity Company StateAutomobile Farm Indemnity Company State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company of the Press Indemnity Company State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company White Bear Lake Indemnity Company State Farm Fire and State Farm Indemnity Company State Farm FireCompany and Casualty Company Like a good neighbor, Vadnais Heights Fire and Casualty Casualty Company State Farm Indemnity Company State Farm Fire and Casualty Company Fire and Casualty Company State Farm General Insurance Company State Farm General Insurance Company ® State Farm General Insurance Company Company General Insurance Company State Farm Fire and Insurance Casualty ® Bloomington, IL Company State Farm is there.® State Farm Bloomington, IL Bloomington, IL General ® Bloomington, IL Mutual State Farm General Insurance Company State Farm Automobile Insurance Company ® Bloomington, IL State FarmState CountyFarm Mutual Insurance Company Bloomington, IL Indemnity Company StateMutual Farm County Mutual Insurance Company State County Insurance Company of TexasFarm State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company State Farm Fire and Casualty Company State Farm Lloyds of Texas State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas of Texas Like a good neighbor, State Farm Mutual Insurance Richardson, TX County State Farm InsuranceCompany Company StateGeneral Farm Lloyds of Texas State Farm Lloyds State Farm Lloyds of Texas Bloomington, IL TX Richardson, State Farm Lloyds State Farm Florida Insurance Company Richardson, TX Richardson, TX State Farm is there.® State FarmFLLloyds Winter Haven, Richardson, TX Richardson, TX StateFlorida Farm County Mutual Insurance Company StateInsurance Farm Florida Insurance Company State Company 2001735Farm State Farm Florida Insurance Company Winter Haven, FL of Texas State Farm Florida Insurance Company Winter Haven, FL Winter Haven, FL State Farm Florida Insurance Company Winter State Haven,Farm FL Lloyds Winter Richardson, Haven, 2001735 FL TX 2001735 2001735 2001735 2001735State Farm Florida Insurance Company Winter Haven, FL

Like good good neighbor, Like a a Like goodaneighbor, neighbor, Like a good neighbor, Like aFarm good is neighbor, State Farm is there.

State State Farm is there.

State Farm Farm is is there. there.

State there.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

86 Mahtomedi Ave, Suite B Mahtomedi, MN 55115 651.888.4111

brian@roelofsagency.com

www. roelofsagency.com brian@roelofsagency.com

Agent - Brian Roelofs

819951

AUTO | HOME | LIFE | BUSINESS

86 Mahtomedi Ave, Suite B AUTO | HOME | LIFE | BUSINESS Mahtomedi, MN 55115 651.888.4111

®

803106

ProvidingProviding and and servicing products for servicing insurance insurance Providing you, andyour servicing family, and products your for business you, that I insurance products for would wantyour for myself, your family, and you, your family, my family, and and my business that I would business. your business that I want myself, wouldfor want for myself, my andmy my my family, family, and business. business.

® ® Scott Agent you with ,,, Scott William William Bohnen, Agent Agent When Scott Bohnen, William Bohnen, WhenWhen you go goyou with State Farm goState with Farm State®®®Farm , Scott William Bohnen, Agent When you go with State Farm 1981 Street Scott William Bohnen, Street Agent When you go with State Farm , 1981 Whitaker 1981 Whitaker Whitaker Street 1981 Whitaker Street you get neighborly service White Bear Lake, MN 55110 1981 Whitaker Street you get neighborly service you get neighborly service ® White Bear Lake, MN 55110 White Bear Lake, MN 55110 you get neighborly service Scott William Bohnen, Agent White Bear Lake, MN 55110 When you go with State Farm , When you go with State Farm®, you get neighborly service Bus: 763-515-4655 White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Bus: 763-515-4655 Bus:1981 763-515-4655 and local — a Whitaker Street Bus: 763-515-4655 andget aagent local agent —service all and a ayou local agent — all all for for a for a scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com Bus: 763-515-4655 and a local agent — all a neighborly scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com get neighborly service and ayou local agent — all for for a me and a White Bear Lake, MN 55110 scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com surprisingly great rate.

Give Scott William Bohnen, Agent When you go with State Farm , surprisingly great rate.

Give me surprisingly great rate.

Give me local agent – all for a surprisingly 763-515-4655 surprisingly great rate.

Give 1981 Bus: Whitaker Street and a local agent — all for a surprisingly great rate.today.

Give me me you get neighborly serviceget White Bear Lake, MN 55110 scott.bohnen.vaayzv@statefarm.com aa call aa quote a call and get quote today. great rate.

Givea me a call and get call and and get quote today.

2001735

Brodie Law Office, LLC www. roelofsagency.com

AUTO | HOME |Ensure LIFEyour | BUSINESS

loved ones are 2023 protected and your assets are of the Press preserved with a personalized estate plan.

Call to Schedule Your FREE Estate Planning Consultation.

White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

Contact:

4665 White Bear Parkway, White Bear Lake, MN 55110

788743

Charlene Brodie, Attorney Brodie Law Office, LLC Charlene@brodielawoffice.com 651-429-3323

651-429-7609 651-429-7609 651-429-7609 1350 1350Highway Highway96 96E E

1350 Highway 96 E White WhiteBear BearLake Lake White Bear Lake DELIVERY &&TAKEOUT TAKEOUT AVAILABLE carboneswhitebearlake.com DELIVERY DELIVERY& TAKEOUTAVAILABLE AVAILABLEcarboneswhitebearlake.com carboneswhitebearlake.com carboneswhitebearlake.com

NOW NOWHIRING! HIRING!

DELIVERY & TAKEOUT AVAILABLE

My name is Brian Roelofs and I have been assisting families and businesses just like yours for over 23 years in finding the right insurance company to fit your specific needs. Our agency represents over 50 insurance companies that we can shop to find the best fit for you. As the insurance industry experiences historic increases across the marketplace. Our selection of companies to shop and offer our clients has never been more valuable.

Here are just a handful of some of the companies we represent and can be your agent and advocate with.

PLEASE PLEASESTOP STOPININAND ANDFILL FILLOUT OUTAN ANAPPLICATION APPLICATION DINE DINEIN, IN,DELIVERY, DELIVERY,TAKE TAKEOUT OUTAVAILABLE AVAILABLE 2024

220 202 WINN 0212 E11R

766416 816509 715271 754536 715271 715271

Best of B the Pre B B ES E E ShiT SteT T W O O O FLaF F TT T Hss VadnaiBear H EE PR s HeighkeHE P P RE R ES ts E SSS S

AAA - ACE - Acuity - All State - Berkley One - Cincinnati - Chubb Encompass - Foremost - The Hartford Integrity - Kemper - Main Street - MetLife Midwest Family - Nationwide - Progressive - PURE - QBE - Safeco - Secura - Selective - State Auto - Travelers - West Bend Western National - Westfield

If you are looking for a second option for your insurance needs.

Please give us a call today!

Thank you so much, — Brian Roelofs

802788

86 Mahtomedi Ave – Mahtomedi

651-888-4111

www.roelofsagency.com brian@roelofsagency.com

Auto • Home • Life • Business

CHANGE BRINGS EXCITEMENT, DON’T LET IT CATCH YOU UNPREPARED. Call me for a free consultation and 5 tips to get emotionally & financially ready for retirement.

Patrick Gherity WEALTH ADVISOR 651.288.8996

patrick.gherity@frandseninvestment.com VADNAIS HEIGHTS, MN

LPL 587211-1

FrandsenInvestmentServices.com Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC).

Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Frandsen Bank & Trust and Frandsen Investment Services are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Frandsen Investment Services, and may also be employees of Frandsen Bank & Trust. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of Frandsen Bank & Trust or Frandsen Investment Services.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by FDIC or Any Other Government Agency

Not Bank Guaranteed

Not Bank Deposits or Obligations

Want to advertise here?

Contact Vicki at 651-407-1211

May Lose Value

819949

brian@roelofsagency.com

Estate Planning

JANUARY 8, 2025 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

9

Cafesjian Art Trust Museum announces new exhibit CONTRIBUTED

‘Toy shelf’ donates to nearly 300 children David Rickert (American, born 1939). Minneapolis Sunday Morning, 1991. Acrylic paint on canvas. 27 1/2 × 39 3/4 in. Cafesjian Art Trust 2024.321.1.

The Cafesjian Art Trust Museum’s (CAT) new exhibit “Echoes of Life: Paintings from the Collection” will showcase a selection of diverse moments that make up the human experience.

The exhibit will open on Jan. 24, and run until Sep. 6.

“This selection of paintings collected by my father Gerard Cafesjian (1925-2013) throughout his lifetime is another wonderful example of his diverse and eclectic artistic tastes,” said Kathie Cafesjian Baradaran, president and CEO of the CAT. The artwork featured in the exhibition will focus on universal elements of our shared humanity—a strong sense of place, a specific moment in time or a particularly relatable character.

These painted “echoes of life” may feel familiar or may introduce an entirely new way to see the world.

"What unites our different artworks in this exhibition is their shared ability to capture the essence of everyday life,” said Linnea Seidling, director of communications and events.

“Each piece is easy to understand and relate to, and offers a unique perspective on a universal theme, inviting us to consider the interconnectedness of our experiences. We think that in our divided times, works like these might particularly resonate.”

The CAT has designed multiple

ways for visitors to engage with the exhibition content. For the first time in the museums, history, visitors will be able to come to the museum without a reservation every Saturday from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. throughout the run of the exhibition.

“We have had so much interest from visitors that getting a coveted tour reservation has become a challenge,” Baradaran said. “So, we’re making a change and encouraging visitors to drop by any time on Saturdays – no reservation or ticket needed! We hope to welcome even more people through our doors, especially families and those who work during the week.”

The museum will continue to offer docent-led guided tours on Thursdays and Fridays, still by reservation only. Docents will be available on Saturdays for visitors to answer questions and lead tours.

An opening reception for “Echoes of Life” will be held on Friday, Jan. 24. Drop-in Saturdays will begin Jan. 25. Tickets for the reception will be available starting Jan. 3. See www. cafesjianarttrust.org for more details. The CAT is located at 4600 Churchill St., Shoreview. ​​​​​​​​​​Madeline Dolby

Can’t reach your feet?

Trouble trimming your toenails?

We can help!

Foot care in the comfort of your home by Registered Nurses

Can’t reach your feet? I Trouble trimming your toenails?

651-484-4615 | FootcareDisciples.com We can help!

FootBear care in the comfort of your Legion home by White American Registered Nurses 651-484-4615 Weekly Bingo is BACK! FootcareDiciples.com

Saturdays at 1 PM $1000 in 59 balls or less

Post 168

Chili cook off on Sunday December 22nd

Weekly Events THIRSTY THURSDAY DRAWING Queens & Jokers Drawing.

Get ticket Thursday by 6pm.

Drawing at 7pm.

Food available for purchase. Must be present to win and no purchase necessary

DAILY HAPPY HOUR Monday thru Friday

Open The Door

821202

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Viacheslaw Pereta (Ukrainian, born 1977).

Playtime, in the Garden, 2003. Oil paint on canvas. 18 3/4 × 26 3/4 in. Cafesjian Art Trust 2024.124.34.

2-6PM $1 off drinks

VINGO

Music Video Bingo Starts at 8 PM Every Thursday KARAOKE

Fridays and Saturdays 9-12 PM

ALL VIKINGS FOOTBALL GAMES

Potluck (Bring a dish to share), Drink Specials and Giveaways PULL TABS & E-TABS Best Odds in Town!

BE SURE TO ASK ABOUT MEMBERSHIP!

TO YOUR NEW OR REMODELED HOME

White Bear Lake, American Legion Post 168 2210 3rd Street

CORNER OF 3RD AND BANNING

651-429-5770 Gambling License #00539

823548

Volunteers from the White Bear Lake Lions, Wildwood Lions, American Legion Post 168 and VFW Post 1782 joined forces to collect new toys for those in need over the holidays. Seven area schools also collected toys. In total, 281 children from 102 families received gifts.

Pictured (from left) are Lions Sue Giorgini, Mike Machus, Julie Nordstrom and Mary Kass.

FREE TRIP CHARGE With repair

$109 value!

Valid during regular business hours • Expires 1/31/25

2023

Established 1973 | MN LIC. #BC000001

651-429-8032

Best of the Press 823637.

www.pratthomes.com

651-426-5220

Read our reviews and check out our current promotions at

www.krinkies.com

When you need us, we are here to help.

823926

*Servicing all brands Licensed, Bonded, Insured

24/7 Emergency Service Serving the St. Paul and Surrounding Area

10 WHITE BEAR PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

PAI participants showcase their creativity

CONTRIBUTED

A Phoenix Alternatives Inc.’s (PAI) participant reads his recently published story aloud at Cajeta Coffee in downtown White Bear Lake.

Throughout 2024, Phoenix Alternatives Inc.'s (PAI) participants had the opportunity to work with Cow Tipping Press, an organization dedicated to amplifying neurodiverse voices and changing the narrative on disability. Through the partnership, participants explored creative writing, crafting stories that reflect their unique perspectives.

The collaboration culminated at Cajeta Coffee last week, where participants read their newly published stories, sharing their creativity and insights with the community.

“At Cow Tipping Press, we aim to change the narrative on disability both in practice and in print, encouraging more people to seek out and celebrate neurodiverse people and stories, on the page and beyond,” said Rachel Lieberman, its program director. “It has been an absolute joy to work with the authors and support staff at PAI this past year, and we're so glad to have these whimsical, goofy and poignant stories out in the world.”

PAI partnered with Cow Tipping

Press not once, but twice, giving over 15 participants the opportunity to transform their thoughts and imaginations into powerful stories.

“These narratives, read aloud in a public space, showcase their introspection and creativity, leaving a meaningful impact on our community. We are proud of the participants’ accomplishments and excited to continue this collaboration, fostering inclusion and understanding through the transformative power of storytelling,” said PAI President Mike Miner. “These experiences are made possible by the generosity of our supporters. We look forward to the incredible self-expression and creativity that the upcoming year will bring.”

PAI was founded in 1990. The nonprofit organization serves people with developmental disabilities by maximizing their integration into the community and helping individuals pursue meaningful, personalized activities. For more information, visit www.paimn.org.

Shannon Granholm

NAMES IN THE NEWS

Following the publication of two picture books in David 2024, White Bear LaRochelle Lake author David LaRochelle has released the first two books in a new interactive series: “This Sheep Needs Your Help!” and “This Pirate Needs Your Help!” They are the first books that LaRochelle has both written and illustrated in over 10 years.

The books come with a dry erase pen so readers can complete the illustrations however they want. Once they reach the end of the book, they can wipe the pages clean and test their drawing skills, again and again.

For more information visit https:// davidlarochelle.com/childrens_books/ draw_erase_adventures.

Wyatt Tarnowski was selected for the 2024 Advanced Placement (AP) Art

and Design Digital Exhibit. Tarnowski is one of 50 students among 80,000 student portfolios selected for the honor. His portfolio was completed during his senior year at Mahtomedi High School (MHS) in his AP 3-D Art and Design class.

In his portfolio, he explored using thrown pottery Wyatt Tarnowski pieces with negative space and unique textures.

“Wyatt came into his senior year determined to push his artistic skills to create his AP 3-D portfolio. His ‘out of the box’ thinking allowed him to explore a wide variety of techniques and styles. This exploration paid off with Wyatt receiving a perfect score on his AP-3D portfolio as well as being showcased at the White Bear Center of the Arts student art show,” said MHS Pottery teacher Jan Nelson.

Tarnowski is currently attending the University of Minnesota Duluth and working on his Master of Business Administration.

CONSTRUCTION BRIEFS County Road F sidewalk construction rescheduled

Final concrete work on the new sidewalk on the north side of County Road F between McKnight Road and Jay Lane has been rescheduled for spring 2025. There was a significant delay in the project progress because a gas service needed to be relocated for proper installation of a retaining wall. To get the best results for the sidewalk, the project area will be graded and made safe for the winter, and the concrete will be installed in the spring when temperatures and weather permit.

Larpenteur Avenue, White Bear Avenue, North Saint Paul Road improvements mostly complete

North St. Paul Road and Van Dyke Street are open to traffic. Signals are completed on White Bear Avenue, and the road will be fully open to traffic by December 6. There will be sod installation and minor work this spring, which is expected to be complete by the end of June, weather permitting. Long-term lane closures are no longer anticipated or scheduled.

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES STATE OF MINNESOTA CLEMENCY REVIEW COMMITTEE

LEGAL NOTICE The following individuals who were convicted of crimes in Ramsey County have applied for relief from the Clemency Review Commission. The applications will be considered at the meeting scheduled for Feb. 7, 2025, commencing at 9:00 a.m. at 1450 Energy Park Dr., St. Paul, MN: Jerri Linda Malone 2nd Degree Assault - dangerous weapon Convicted: 11/28/2012 Scott Jay Debban 1st Deg. Murder – 2 counts, Attempted 1st Deg. Murder Convicted: 11/4/1993 Daniel James Valtierra Aid/Abet 1st Degree Felony Murder - 3 counts, Aid/Abet 2nd Degree Murder with intent Convicted: 2/10/2005 Ethan Robert O’Connor Misdemeanor domestic assault Convicted: 2/14/2013 Victims have a right to submit a statement at this meeting. For more information, email the Clemency Review Commission at clemency.review. commission@state.mn.us or call 651-539-2610.

Published one time in the White Bear Press on January 8, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies: 1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Breslin Blinds 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

2599 Fairview Ave N, Roseville MN 55113 3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Refurbify LLC 2599 Fairview Ave N, Roseville MN 55113 I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: December 18, 2024 Signed: Derek Breslin Johnson Published two times in the White Bear Press on January 8 and 15, 2025.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF HEARING TO AMEND ORDINANCE NO. 35 (ZONING) IN THE TOWN OF WHITE BEAR, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That the Town Board of the Town of White Bear, Ramsey County, Minnesota, will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, in said Town on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., to consider amending Sections 3, 6, and 7 of Ordinance 35 related to Cannabis Uses and businesses, and to hear and pass upon objections and recommendations, if any, and to conduct any and all business incident thereto.

Given under my hand this 26th day of December, 2024.

BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on January 8, 2025.

WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

INVITATION TO INTERESTED SERVICE PROVIDERS STUDENT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Independent School District No. 624, located 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN 55110, will receive written quotations until 10:00 AM CST, February 11, 2025 from qualified service providers interested in being considered as the District student transportation services provider commencing with school year 2025-26.

On the above date and time authorized persons representing Independent School District No. 624 will publicly open the written quotations received and read aloud the names and key terms. The District reserves the option to enter into direct negotiations with one or more qualified student transportation services provider(s) regarding terms, rates and provisions agreeable to the District to secure a contract for these services.

Written quotations must be received, on or before the above date and time, by: Tim Wald, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations White Bear Lake Area Schools 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 The General Specification and Request for Quotations may be obtained by contacting David Johnson, Transportation Administrator, at the District Office of Independent School District No. 624 located at the above address or by phone at 651-407-7570 or Tom Watson, The Watson Consulting Group, at 612-751-0124.

Independent School District No. 624 is using the direct negotiation and quotation process established by Minnesota Statute Section 123B.52, Subd.

1 and 3 for the procurement of this contract, and disclaims usage of any other contract procurement options allowed under applicable law. The School District reserves the right to reject any and all quotations and waive irregularities therein, and further reserves the right to award a contract to the lowest responsible service provider(s) that is in the best interest of Independent School District No. 624 Scott Arcand, Clerk Posted on District 624 website.

Published two times in the White Bear Press on January 1 and 8, 2025.

JANUARY 8, 2025 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR PRESS

11

Order Online at Dominos.com

®

®

®

®

®

White Bear Lake Township 651-390-7500 1210 County Road J White Bear Lake 55127

White Bear

651-429-9192 4701 Clark White Bear 55110

Mahtomedi

651-429-4252 107 Wildwood rd 55090

Shoreview

651-484-3030 3551 N Lexington 55112

824031

Hugo

651-426-3030 14531 Forest Blvd Hugo 55038

12 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

TOWNSHIP HEARING: Street improvement open house planned for March new road pavement section. The township also plans to increase the width of the road by 6 feet and add storm sewer and curb and gutter. Special

FROM PAGE 1

The existing pavement has minimal thickness; the township plans to increase the thickness of the

care will be taken to avoid wetlands in the area. Residents also requested a larger culde-sac.

The project is estimated at $961,100 with

assessments estimated at $12,000 per unit.

In March, the township will host an open house where residents will be able to see finalized plans

White Bear Lake

LIONS CORNER 823572

www.whitebearlions.org www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/hugomn www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/wildwoodmn

Stay safe and warm, and may you be blessed in abundance in 2025!

Feel Great

Don’t let winter chills affect your smile! Schedule your dental checkup today and ensure a healthy, bright smile throughout the cold season.

White Bear Lake Lions

We provide comprehensive dental care for the entire family!

NOW OPEN

Designer Purse Bingo 6pm Every 3rd Wednesday Pull Tabs Every Day // E-tabs & Linked Bingo 1350 E Hwy 96, WBL 651.429.7609

5677 147th Street North www.hugodentalcare.com 651-426-1639

823856

3069 White Bear Ave, Maplewood 651-748-0316

Meat Raffles

5 pm Tuesday & Friday

823567

DAILY - open till close

H ugo Dental C are

Tuesdays 6 pm

Lic. 02378-012

2185 4th Street, WBL 651.429.7111

$1000 Bingo

Pull tabs 85% paper 85% E-tabs Lic. #02378-013

Pull Tabs Every Day Open to Close

Lic. 02378-003

Lic. 02378-016

Paper, E-tabs, Linked Bingo 651-407-7162 4736 Washington Square White Bear Lake

For more information on the Portland Woods road improvement, visit www.ci.whitebear-township. mn.us/492/PortlandWoods-Reconstruction.

For more information on the Anderson Lane road improvement, visit www.ci.whitebear-township. mn.us/490/AndersonLane-Reconstruction.

About Your Smile

Happy New Year!

ALL DAY EVERYDAY

and ask questions of the town engineers. A specific date has not yet been set.

White Bear Lake Dental

AROUND

Specializing in cosmetic dentistry & same day crowns!

THE LAKE

INSIDE: SPORTS

CLASSIFIEDS

651-653-3802

4100 BELLAIRE AVENUE WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

CALL-A-SPECIALIST

823372

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2025

DR. JOY JOHNSON

ICE FISHING: What you should know PAGE 18

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

A brisk stroll to start the new year Above: A young participant on a scooter leads the way along a lighted trail in Mahtomedi during the recent early evening Lake Links Winter Stroll.

Above: Cold weather did not deter dozens of local residents from gathering at the Depot Creek Covered Bridge for a progress update on the trail and surrounding Streetcar Park area. Key takeaways from more than a year of trail counter data included pedestrian use numbers at 76% (many of them local) and bicyclists at 24%, with a weekend traffic increase in the summer.

At right: Socializing, treats, information sharing and a prize drawing at the Mahtomedi District Center followed a round trip trail walk.

WINTER SALE! HOME • OFFICE • AUTO • BOATS 2645 White Bear Ave #4

651-484-5156

Tues-Thurs: 10a – 4p Call for Fri &Call Sat: for 10a – 4p Winter Hours Sun & Mon: Closed Winter Hours

JerrysUpholsteryofMinnesota.com

651-429-7202 651-429-7202 North of White Bear Lake

Shop Local • Support Local!

4742 WASHINGTON SQ.

North of Lake North ofWhite WhiteBear Bear Lake off E.E. Orchard Rd. off E.Hwy. Hwy.96 96 on Apple Orchard Rd. off Hwy. 96on onApple Apple Orchard Rd. OPEN DAILY THRU FEBRUARY Open through February OPEN DAILY THRU FEBRUARY

779770

(weather permitting)

823429 654846 654846

THE ANCHOR COFFEE HOUSE

anchorcoffeewbl.com

APPLE ORCHARD Apples of of course, Apples Apples ofcourse, course, and Apple Cider and Apple and AppleCider Cider and Apple Bakery. and Apple Bakery. and Apple Bakery.

www.pinetreeappleorchard.com www.pinetreeappleorchard.com www.pinetreeappleorchard.com

$50 Off

All Work over $500

Some limitations may apply. 1 coupon per purchase. Not valid with any other offer.

Jerry’s Upholstery 651-484-5156 Exp. 2/7/25

$100 Off

All Work over $1000

Some limitations may apply. 1 coupon per purchase. Not valid with any other offer.

Jerry’s Upholstery 651-484-5156 Exp. 2/7/25

823860

824073

PINE TREE PINE TREE APPLE ORCHARD

Happy Hour 3-6 pm $1off rail drinks 2185 4th St., White Bear Lake

Discover What’s Next!

Century College is a member of Minnesota State. We are an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator.

This document can be available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities by calling 651.444.2190 or emailing access.center@century.edu.

Spring Semester begins January 13.

Learn more at century.edu/spring 823697

A member of Minnesota State

14 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

CITY BRIEFS Gem Lake seeks to fill vacancy

Duties include attending monthly meetings and reading the packet in advance of the meeting. To serve on the commission you must be a resident of Gem Lake. Those who are interested should contact City Clerk Melissa Lawrence at Heritage Hall of download the application from the city website at https://gemlakemn.org.

Gem Lake residents can get NOAA radio discount Residents of Gem Lake are eligible to receive a NOAA weather radio for 50% off thanks to a new program. The program is through an initiative at the county level to help citizens become more prepared for emergencies, such as flooding, severe weather, pandemics etc.

The city of Gem Lake has set two goals — one encouraging residents to use NOAA weather radios in their households; and two installing a building power generation system.

If you are interested in a discounted radio, contact City Clerk Melissa Lawrence at Heritage Hall and put your name on the list by Jan. 31.

823431

777980

The Gem Lake Planning Commission has at least one seat open as of Jan. 1.

Being a commission member involves tasks such as evaluating development requests, helping to draft new or improve existing ordinances and generally all matters pertaining to planning and zoning.

No minimum opening balance Guaranteed returns at maturity IRA & business certificates included Visit an office or open a certificate online at rcu.org/SaveAtRoyal

800-341-9911

823540

Insured by NCUA. *APY = Annual Percentage Yield. APY is current as of 12/05/2024. Last changed on 12/05/2024. No minimum balance required to open account or earn APY. Rate is subject to change at any time without notice. Dividends calculated daily, compounded and paid monthly. Substantial penalty for early withdrawal.

Penalties could reduce the earnings and principal on the account. Membership required and account opening upon qualification. Other conditions or restrictions may apply. Refer to our disclosures and service fees for more information.

JANUARY 8, 2025 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

15

STEERING COMMITTEE: City Council will need to discuss next steps FROM PAGE 1

“The focus of the study was to review the mobility of vehicles and pedestrians in the downtown area along with parking availability, utilization and potential opportunities. The study was based on input from data reviews, community engagement and input and review of the steering committee and staff,” explained Public Works Director/City Engineer Paul Kauppi. “The report includes concepts for each of these elements for consideration by council as future projects are considered.”

Eli Rupnow, a business representative on the committee, said many of the concepts “make sense” but he has some concerns. “They have done a lot of things that are overall good,” he said, adding that he as well as other committee members have “a bunch of concerns.”

As of last week, he had yet to see a final draft of the

study report. “I don’t know if we are even going to see the final version before the council meeting,” Rupnow said.

He shared that what he views as the two most controversial parts of the plan is the proposal to close the access to Third Street from Highway 61 and the recommendation to remove trees.

Kim Schoonover, a business representative on the committee, was unable to attend the last meeting but said she felt like it was “a good process.”

“I felt like they were very open to the community, having various community meetings, having a website that gave all the information that they were proposing. I appreciated being a part of it being a business owner so I could understand what was going on,” she said. “I think that in general it is very positive things that are going to be happening, so I’m really encouraged by it.”

Schoonover added, “It was a good, well-rounded group of people to address all of the different concerns … I was

surprised at how they listened to everybody and how we would talk through things. I feel like everybody’s opinions were addressed and respected.”

The White Bear Press requested the final draft of the study report from the city but has yet to receive it.

“We really don’t have any information to share at this point except that the project steering committee will be presenting the final study to council for acceptance at the Jan. 14 meeting,” Kauppi said.

Following acceptance of the report, the council will need to discuss it further and determine the next steps for any upcoming projects in the downtown area.

According to the project website, the final product will be a plan to guide future road and infrastructure projects in the downtown area. The first project is anticipated to include the area south of Fourth Street and various municipal parking lots.

John E. Olsen, Jr.

David A. Clarke

aka Johnny, Hugo John, or Old Man died from cancer at his home on Half Moon Lake in WI December 24, 2024.

Born August 25, 1955, John was the oldest of fifteen, all half siblings to him. He grew up without his father but was able to have a close relationship with him in later years. He met most of his siblings in his 3rd and 5th decades.

He was with his third, and most patient wife, Sydney for 32 years. He had two sons, Zeb and Harry and was preceded in death

by Zeb. Zeb left him with three grandsons, that he adored: Keegan, Zeb Jr and Grayson. John leaves behind many friends, the number is staggering. He made friends everywhere he went no matter what he was doing. He had a memory for faces.

John was raised by his grandparents in Waukegan, Illinois but when his grandmother died, he moved to Amherst, WI where he went to high school.

Amherst molded John more than anything. He was emancipated while still in high school, which might have helped his popularity. John always said that he learned to work from the farm families he got to know in the central WI area. He took that work ethic, founded two tree removal businesses and climbed trees until he was 62. John developed client relationships that lasted nearly 50 years.

During his illness he received many kind cards and letters from clients. John retired from Hugo Tree, but never stopped cutting trees for friends. He was known for his honest opinions and approach to business. He treated everyone like family.

When not slaying trees, John was an avid motorcyclist, card player, golfer, boater, fisherman, gun sports (but no hunting) and all-around fun guy to have at a party. With a sharp wit and harmless charm, he was known for his jokes and storytelling at any party that he attended.

He loved to turn trees he had cut into usable lumber, and his lake home is a testament to a lifetime of accumulating (and moving) boards and slabs.

In addition to his wife, son and grandsons, John leaves behind his one-eyed dog, Captain. The latest in a long line of rescue dogs he adopted. John also leaves behind close siblings, extended family, and many friends that have become family. He leaves a legacy of “if you love what you do then you will never work a day in your life”.

Memorials preferred to Northwoods Humane Society in Forest Lake, MN or Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf in Hugo, MN. Drinks and stories Friday January 10, 4-7pm at the Hugo American Legion.

Born on April 13, 1946, in St. Paul, Minnesota, passed away on December 19, 2024, in Peoria, Illinois, due to heart failure.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Mary Clarke.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia, and his brother, Jerome.

A proud graduate of White Bear High School’s Class of 1964, David was an active participant in a variety of sports during his school years. His dedication and enthusiasm for athletics were a hallmark of his youth.

David built a fulfilling career with the Burlington Railroad and later with the Colorado Department of Revenue. His work ethic and commitment were evident throughout his professional life.

In accordance with David’s wishes, no services are planned. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

OBITUARIES

Of White Bear Lake, Mn, age 91, passed away peacefully 12/22/2024.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband Gordon F. Vadnais. She leaves behind her 3 children, Rick Schwalbach, Deb Waag (Robert) and Connie Schwinn (Michael), 6 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, her sister Carol Bourquin and many nieces and nephews.

She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Special thanks to the staff of Keystone Place at LaValle Fields and the wonderful volunteers.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer.

Georjann Deutsch Age 89 of Hugo.

Georjann passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. She was born June 28, 1935 in Davenport, IA to Harry and Marie Paulsen. She is preceded in death by husband, Hal; son-in-law, Brian Preisler; her parents, siblings & many friends. She is survived by daughters, Holly Preisler and Lisa (Rick) Heroff; and sons, Greg Deutsch, Mark (Barb) Deutsch, and David Deutsch; grandchildren, Jaime, Rebecca, Jaclyn, Kevin, Kyle, Kate, Karina, William; and 11 great grandchildren.

Georjann graduated from Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with a degree in elementary education and was a part of the Tri Delta sorority. She was married to Hal on June 22, 1957, in Davenport, Iowa and they began their lives together in El Paso, Texas at Fort Bliss. After Texas, they moved to White Bear Lake where she taught for many years at St. Pius. Upon her retirement Georjann and Hal moved permanently to their lake home on Little Whitefish Lake near Garrison, they lived there for 22 years until returning to the Twin City area. While living at the lake, Georjann was active in the Garrison Lions Club. She also enjoyed her beautiful flower and vegetable gardens at her lake home. Georjann was a teacher by profession, but also at heart. She was always excited to read to her grandkids and great grandkids as well as help them design and sew their first quilts. Georjann was a social butterfly, she loved playing cards with friends and going to her sewing classes. To know Georjann is to know that she was a beautiful seamstress and quilter. Everyone who met her instantly knew she was a compassionate, gentle, patient, funny, open minded, encouraging, and a generous longtime friend. Her friends and family will miss her dearly, but think of her often especially while cozying up under one of her quilts.

A celebration of Georjann’s life will be held in the Spring of 2025.

Roberts Family Funeral Home, 651-464-4422, RobertsFamilyFH.com.

Eugene H. “Gene” Nissen Age 91 of White Bear Lake, MN. Formerly of Shafer, MN passed away on December 31, 2024.

Survived by wife Bev (Molly) Faffler; daughters Connie (Bob) Linder, Cindy (Fred Pfannes) Anderson, Ruth (Ken) Larson. Celebration of Life 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Grandstrand Funeral Home, Lindstrom, MN. Condolences may be shared online at www. grandstrandfh.com.

Nancy J. McAllister Brock Age 86 of White Bear Lake.

Preceded in death by parents Carl and Edna Yunkherr and husband E.C. Mike McAllister.

Survived by husband John Brock; children Michael McAllister, Amy (Scott) Holerud, Patrick (Holly) McAllister; grandchildren Alexandra, Julia, Emily, Megan, and Matthew; great-grandson Cooper. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11AM Friday, January 10, 2025 at ST. MARY OF THE LAKE CATHOLIC CHURCH, 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake, with a visitation one hour before Mass at Church.

Interment St. Mary’s Cemetery, White Bear Lake. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Northern Sky Theater, WI, or Alzheimer’s Association.

“Miss White Bear Lake Never Leaving” Honsafamilyfuneral.com, 651-429-6172

Cecil C. Van Booven, Jr. Age 72, of White Bear Lake.

Passed away surrounded by family on December 30, 2024. A service is planned for the Spring of 2025.

Arrangements with Honsa Family Funeral Home, Honsafamilyfuneral.com, 651-429-6127

SEE MORE OBITUARIES, PAGE 16

Celebrations of Life, Anniversaries, Conferences, Banquets, Birthdays and more.

651-429-5393 4940 Hwy 61 White Bear Lake 823435

Roberta E. Vadnais (Denfeld)

16 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

OBITUARIES

Karen Lee (Bakke) Sisterman

Rocky “RJ” James Kaupp

Age 84 of White Bear Lake, passed away Dec. 17th, 2024.

Born in Duluth, MN January 27, 1940. Survived by her husband of 36 years, John, her daughters Lisa Annand, Kim Scherer and blended children Wendy Sisterman, Christopher Sisterman, and Matthew Sisterman. Sisters Claudia Aronsohn, Linda Johnson and Laurie Bakke.

Karen spent years supporting Al-onon families. Her passion was animal rescue and working with in the veterinary world. She was the original cat woman. Every feline that crossed her path was special and if you were lucky enough to be invited to live in her home, you were exceptional, A special thank you to St. Croix Hospice and the extraordinary care given to her during this trying time.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on January 24, 2025 at the White Bear Unitarian Universalist Church, 328 Maple St., Mahtomedi, MN 55115, from 12 Noon to 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Animal Humane Society, Golden Valley, MN. A special thank you to the White Bear Lake Fire Department for the numerous calls to Karen’s home while in Hospice. It was greatly appreciated.

Weekly Outlook SUNRISE/SUNSET JANUARY 8-14, 2025

7:51 4:49

7:50 4:49

7:50 4:51

7:49 4:52

7:49 4:53

7:48 4:54

7:48 4:55

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rocky “RJ” James Kaupp, who brought joy to this world for a brief but unforgettable time. RJ was born on November 5, 2012, and departed on November 29, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and light.

RJ is survived by his parents, Jessica Kaupp (Rutten) and Michael Kaupp; his sisters, Hayden and Lainey Kaupp; as well as his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Richard “Rocky” George Kaupp, and his uncle, Justin Wade Rutten, who now welcome him into their arms.

During his short life, RJ blessed his family with his beautiful smile that could light up any room. He had a love for music, enjoyed swimming, and being outside. He cherished every moment spent with his family. Though his time here was far too brief, RJ left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.

His family takes comfort in the knowledge that RJ is now held in the embrace of his Grandpa Rocky and Uncle Justin, surrounded by love and peace. He will forever remain in our hearts, a bright star shining in the heavens above.

A Celebration of Life will be January 31st from 10am-2pm at BRADSHAW, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for acts of kindness or donations to causes that have supported RJ: Make-A-Wish America, Spare Key - Providing Assistance to Families Facing A Medical Crisis, Home - Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, UCP of Minnesota, Hydrocephalus Association | We’re Here To Support You. Bradshaw Funeral home, 651-407-8300

Weather Tidbits Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

Frank Watson

Gary Baumann

As the eastern half of the nation reels from a major winter storm and now an Arctic blast, we finally get to enjoy some much needed sunshine. With that sunshine comes some colder temperatures, but we’re not talking -20,s or even -10.s. In fact, it’s hard to see even below 0º in the forecast. Heck, we’ll take that! It’s climatologically the coldest period of the winter. We did experience some below 0º this past weekend but it “only” dipped to -3º. Winds were fairly light and the sun was out. It was great! Area lakes and ponds are like glass. The total lack of snow cover on lakes has made for ideal ice boat conditions. I’ve seen a few zipping along on White Bear Lake. I’ve also spotted just a few pickups on the ice. With the lack of snow cover and the cold we need to watch out for frozen water lines. Note: My 2025 Weather Calendar is available online at WeathermanWatson.com or Lake Country Booksellers.

WEEKLY AVERAGES HIGH LOW SUN PCP

24° 8° 47% 0.28

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

70, of Grant, passed away on December 21,2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Bernice Baumann. He was an Army Veteran and retired from the St. Paul Regional Water Dept.

Interment with Honors at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 1:45 PM, directions on Mueller Memorial Website.

Mueller Memorial White Bear Lake, 651-429-4944, www.muellermemorial.com

Sponsored by

James Sanchez White Bear Lake Realty

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

PHONE: 651-407-1250 | EMAIL: classified@presspubs.com

CLASSIFIEDS www.presspubs.com

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

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.

18

Thank You Thank You Blessed St. Jude for prayers answered! AM Thank You God, Saint Mary and Saint Jude for favors granted!

23

Free Items Free sturdy twin XL bunk beds, mattresses + bunk buddies included, Call for appt 763-999-142seven FREE Unassembled new white desk, still in box, 47” long, 22” wide, 3 drawers on side, one drawer in middle 651-429-924eight

52

Cars Are you interested in purchasing a Tesla?

Please use this referral link to receive a special bonus offer from Tesla before you place your order. http://ts.la/carter53772

104

Hauling/Moving Scrap metal appliance pick up 651-329-0815

150

Help Wanted SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST Assistant Long Term Sub. New LondonSpicer Schools. Required AAS Degree from an accredited SPLA Program. See www.nls.k12.mn.us/e mployment for more information.

358

Firewood 100% 3YrDryRed Oak Fireplace Cord $165 Call 651-214-071eight

2 yr Dry Oak 8'x4'x16” $150 delivr'd, 651-900-309four

362

362

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

DON'T LET THE STAIRS LIMIT YOUR MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 866.852.5506

SAFE STEP North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today!

Financing available.

Call Safe Step 833.966.3882

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844.220.9501 today!

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited talk, text and data for just $25/mo! The power of 3 5G networks, one low price! Call today and get the latest iPhone every year on us! 855.849.6621 GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 in gift cards. Call today! 855.562.4309

369

Want to Buy WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 844/978-0683

We Buy Vinyl Records Lps, 45s, Stereo Equip We make house calls by appointment.

White Bear Lake Records 4775 Banning Ave,WBL wblrecords.com 651-224-4947

451

Rentals/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.

The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

• Employment • • Employment • • Employment • • Employment •

JANUARY 8, 2025 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

17

WHITE BEAR PRESS | VADNAIS PRESS | QUAD COMMUNITY PRESS | SHOREVIEW PRESS | NORTH OAKS NEWS | THE CITIZEN | THE LOWDOWN

EMAIL: callaspecialist@ presspubs.com

PHONE: 651-407-1250 APPLIANCE REPAIR

PAINTING

HANDYMAN

CLEANING

TREE SERVICE

REMODELING

FREE Estimates! Specializing in • Handyman • Remodeling • Drywall Repair• Bathrooms • Kitchens Licensed Bonded Insured

Honest Work for Honest Pay

651-270-7360 Reasonable Rates -all jokes and laughs are free

Servicing All Major Appliance Brands Major Credit Cards Accepted

NEW HOMES • BASEMENTS • REMODELS • RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ■

Household Waste Construction Debris Appliances Furniture

Ron Skibsted, R.S. Construction

651-271-5000

1

Monday–Friday 8am–6pm 7137 20th Avenue North • Centerville www.facebook.com/vermauto

DECKS

B & D Enterprise Mention ad and get 10% discount

612-501-0733

IKING AUTO REPAIR

Foreign & Domestic

• Complete Automotive Repair • Friendly Service • Low Rates

2501 E. County Rd F White Bear Lake

GO VIKES! 651-407-3465

2022

of the Press White Bear Lake Vadnais Heights

vikingautomotiverepair.com

BATHROOMS

Bathrooms by • Design • Bath Repair • Remodeling • Tub Surrounds • Free Estimates

Furnace & A/C Installations and Service Licensed, Bonded & Insured 651.426.4233 cphvac.net

Custom Decks/Footing Repair Screen Rooms/Additions Garages/Roofing/Siding Aluminum/Glass/Cable Railings All Repairs Call Us for WINTER SPECIALS

651-746-4582

www.northlandlandscape.com

• CHANGING CEILINGS OVER TO KNOCK DOWNS • TAPING • SPRAYING • ADDITIONS • BASEMENTS • NEW HOMES • GARAGES

No job too small!

Kerry (Cell)

651-653-9021 651-271-4221

Order online today at revierbeef.com

CABINETRY

Schneider Custom Woodworks

Forest Lake

651-238-1850 brian@cedarspec-bestpaint.com

Custom CABINETRY! Free Estimates & Callbacks within 24 hours

651-213-6638

schneidercustomwoodwork.com

CARPENTRY

Small Job Specialist

45 years experience Basement Finish/Remodel Exterior & Interior Painting Doors/Windows/Siding Ceiling Textures/Roofs Kitchen Remodels/Counter Tops Decks/Landscaping Odd Jobs Bathrooms

651.653.9920 / 612.816.8544

umb

License # BC627690

s $AVE 3MITH s

.

3APPLEWOOD BUILDERS

651-307-6502 New Construction/Remodel Residential Commercial Competitive Rates

refresh with us!

applewoodremodelers.com

ROOFING

REMODELING 1

612-868-6837 Room Additions • Kitchens Basements • Decks All Remodeling For more info visit KOlsonconstruct.com

“Your Local Exterior Specialists” Residential - Hardie Plank

Roofing s Siding s Windows Gutters s Fascia & Soffit

651-407-1987 MN Lic.# BC223025

Dryer Vent • Cleaning • Repair • Reroute • Installation

ROOFING & SIDING

651-350-4201

Ice Dam & Snow ReRoof? m ov a l Leaky Leaky Roof?

“THE LEAKS STOP HERE” Leaky Roof?

List your business in the

“THE LEAKS STOP HERE”

Roofing • Siding •Driveways 763-742-7500 763-742-7500 bettersol.com Windows •bettersol.com Doors • & HERE” More “THE LEAKS STOP

763-742-7500 bettersol.com

Full Service Contractor A+ over 40 years experience MN Lic. BC639211 Rating Full Service Contractor over 40 years experience MN Lic. BC639211

Meet Your Specialist

We are offering specialty woodworking and repair services!

Custom built non– standard sized cabinets Cabinet repair/update– updated hinges, hardware too!

ARROW ELECTRIC 651-383-5123

VENT CLEANING

MNLic#BC003215

Cabinet reface– fresh paint, existing stain update

FloydEMERGENCY DeHate, Master Electrician SERVICE 651-346-8185 EMERGENCY SERVICE

(651) 775-8602

612.670.7004

Furniture repair– broken drawer slides, hinges and more!

• Repair• Repair Circuits •Circuits Recepts Added • Remodels • Panels Replaced • Recepts Added • Ceiling Fans • Ceiling Fans • Master Electrician

Vent Clearing

CameronTree & Snow Removal (651) 775-8602 (651) 775-8602

,IC s "ONDED s )NSURED

SmallJobs Jobs Welcome Welcome Small

tnuocsid nareteV/roineS • setamitsE eerF • snI/ciL

lavomeR wonS & eerTnoremaC

Snow Removal Lic/InsCameronTree • Free Estimates&• Senior/Veteran discount Licensed & Insured

Full Service Contractor over 40 years experience MN Lic. BC639211

3

Cameron Tree & Snow Removal

gniraelc tneV & potfooR • sklawediS & yawevirD • saera gnikrap llamS •

• Affordable Tree • Driveway & Sidewalks • One-time Snow Removal Available Trimming & Removal • Small parking areas Winter Treeareas Trimming & Removal • 26 years of experience • Small •parking • Family owned • Family Owned & Operated Lic/Ins • Free Estimates • Senior/Veteran discount • Senior & Veteran Discounts

APPLEWOOD BUILDERS

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

lavomeR wonS

06•8Rooftop -577&)&1 5 6( clearing Vent clearing Vent • Driveways & Sidewalks No Tree too• 2Rooftop Tall • Driveway & Sidewalks

c in g in

Lic. #BC-516217

Mike 651-442-0383 Shop 651-447-0857

Fast, Dependable, Insured

Snow • Rooftop Removal Snow Removal & 651-888-4138 Snow Removal No Job too Small

Tom Thill 651-433-4866 Lic. #005402

L D MARSHALL PAINTING

• Water Damage • Skim Coating • Sheetrock hanging and finishing • Popcorn ceiling removal • We match most textures • Insured

CUSTOM WOODWORKS

Commercial & Residential

Check out our Models for design ideas.

• Drain Cleaning • Hot Water Heating • Hot Water Heaters & Disposal • Well Pump Service • New Construction • Remodeling

Call or email Brian

Specialized in home plaster repair

FREE ESTIMATE

Kitchen / Bathroom Basement / Deck

Lic #686889

Residential and Commercial Call now for Spring 2025 exterior pricing!

Free Estimates • Established 1987

TIME TO REMODEL?

www.whitebear plumbing.com

Staining, Painting, Cleaning, Repairs and Restoration, Siding, trim, shakes, fences, decks, pergolas, gazebos

Mike’s Drywall & Plastering

ELECTRIC

ResidentIal CommercIal

Family owned since 1967

www.LDMarshallPainting.com

CALL LEE

651-426-8660

Quality Home Building and Remodeling

(651) 426-6000

We’ll bring your cedar back to life!

(651) 428-0229

Best Beef Every Time

pl

Cedar Specialists & Best Painting

Family Owned & Operated 40 yrs • Since 1979 Insured

BEEF

Tree Removal Tree Trimming

Snowplowing

ite bear wh

brian@cedarspec-bestpainting.com

• Interior painting only Stain & Varnish • Painting of Home Furnishings (furniture, cabinets, mirrors, light fixtures, frames, etc.)

Quality Work • Reasonable Rates

Insured / Lic #BC105943

Tree Service

651-238-1850

Scott or Linda • 651-426-9135 (office)

Locally Owned Since 1994

*1 yr financing option available* Cameron SHERCO CONSTRUCTION

Family owned since 1967

Wolf Bros. Drywall Co. Total Drywall Services

NorconHomes.com

PLUMBING

CALL OR EMAIL! GET 2024 PRICING FOR SPRING/SUMMER 2025 EXTERIORS

651-257-4706

New Const & Basement Finishes Residential/Commercial

Painting

612-394-8978

PAINTING

LORENZ DRYWALL

Call Today! 763-785-1629

Pro

Please Call Richard

Bonded Insured • Lic #BC638094

DRYWALL

35 yrs

E

ng Colors xperience Livi

• Holiday Special • Professional, Residential House Painting • Interior & Exterior • Kind, Respectful Service

Interior: commercial, residential, new construction walls, ceilings, trim, cabinets, floors Exterior: cedar siding/trim repairs, stains and painting

DRYWALL/PLASTER

www.youngcastlebathrooms.com

651-238-6751

Best Painting & Cedar Specialists

HUGE SAVINGS! Lic. #20060261

651-429-7077 Pro

INTERIOR PAINTING

Of Forest Lake

• Snow Plowing • Tire Change • Lock-Out • Gas delivery • Jump start

Twin Cities Premier Home Improvement Company

Free ate Estim

651.226.4235

On demand

Marty Hunt & Dale Lundstrom

Highest Quality Workmanship!

• Auto Repair • Oil Lube & Filter Service & Centerville - Friendly, Honest Service

Licensed/Insured • Free Estimates

ALL REMODELING

HEATING & COOLING

20 years of experience serving White Bear Lake

GENE’S TREE SERVICE & STUMP GRINDING

BATHROOMS ~ KITCHENS BASEMENTS ~ TILES

License #BC002674

AUTO SERVICE

1

Sheetrock Hanging ■ Tapng ■ Interior Painting ■ Knockdown ■ Resprays

Call-A-Specialist section.

Ads are placed in

6 papers!

That’s over 124,000 readers!

Call for details:

651-407-1221

Furniture refresh– a new look for a piece you cherish

We have our own cabinet shop equipped to handle your unique woodworking needs!

applewoodremodelers.com

612.670.7004 M N LI C# B C 0 0321 5

18 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

What you should know: Ice fishing on the St. Croix

BY ROY HEILMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Minnesotans are used to seeing ice shanty “villages” this time of year. Those who glance out onto the frozen St. Croix River may not realize that what they’re looking at may be something like a true community centered on one species.

The scenic river is one of a handful of places in the Upper Midwest where lake sturgeon thrive. Naturally, they attract anglers looking for a chance at battling the prehistoric beast.

Unlike the famously secretive devotees of crappies and walleyes, sturgeon anglers are an open and welcoming bunch. Many of the most fervent have coalesced around the “Minnesota Catfish and Sturgeon” Facebook group where photos, fishing reports and advice are freely shared.

One such angler is Jake Odonnell, of South St. Paul.

While children everywhere scanned the skies for a flying sleigh on Christmas Eve, his eyes were fixed on a sonar screen near Bayport, the de facto capital of sturgeon ice angling in this area. He immediately welcomed a wandering writer into his pop-up shelter and began to explain what was happening. Fortunately for the uninitiated, it’s uncomplicated.

“A lot of guys will go in the deeper areas, you know,

Who says resolutions can’t be fun?

A new year deserves a new adventure. Swing by The Cafe Meow for a coffee, snack, and a touch of feline fun!

Bonus: bring this in for a discount!

TWO LOCATIONS IN THE TWIN CITIES

Roseville New Hope

612.212.8471 MN677319 MN608923

3524 Winnetka Ave N New Hope MN 55427

612.386.5941

thecafemeow.com

823925

1718A Lexington Ave N Roseville MN 55113

35 or 40 feet. I stay in the shallow from 13 to about 25.

You can go anywhere,” explained Odonnell. “Set up with a bait on the bottom and hope for the best. You just wait for them to come by and watch that bobber.”

That night, he used a sucker minnow on a plain J hook. Nightcrawlers and other kinds of minnows are also frequently employed.

Odonnell had yet to catch the first sturgeon for the season at that point but knows that is par for the course. “You can have nights when you have a bunch of action, and you’re catching four or five a night. Or you can go a couple weeks on end and not catch anything.

It’s a big gamble,” he said.

It is common for sturgeon to pass by, with no indication of interest in the bait. “That might be a sturgeon here,” he said, pointing to his sonar. While sturgeon fishing is a known waiting game, long times between bites does not mean they are scarce.

The number of lake sturgeon in this stretch of the river has been estimated to be well into the thousands.

They are highly migratory — especially during spawning season — just one reason an exact figure is elusive, if not impossible. Nonetheless, the population is considered healthy, and has been studied by both Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Wisconsin DNR for decades.

A few members of the Minnesota sturgeon angling community participated in ongoing research in 2023 and early 2024 by helping the Wisconsin DNR install new tags on over 500 fish. For their part, the rank-andfile sturgeon anglers routinely catch tagged fish (some date to the 1980s) and report tag numbers and fish measurements.

All that data helps fisheries managers understand things like population size, growth, migration habits, and more. Some individual fish have been caught many times over the years, showing that sturgeon are hardy fish and that they can thrive for years after being released.

Ice fishing for sturgeon on the St. Croix is solely a catch-and-release activity, as harvest is restricted to a few weeks in September. The season will close on March 1.

Shortly before that, the sturgeon fishing community will likely hold “Sturgeon Camp,” an annual event full of food and camaraderie and a friendly fishing tournament. The tournament portion is conducted virtually through the FishDonkey phone app, which

CONTRIBUTED

Sturgeon angler Jake Odonnell hoists a lake sturgeon caught this season on the St. Croix River.

allows for best handling of the sturgeon. A 54-inch fish was tops in 2023. Anglers were restricted to revelry on the shore in 2024, since ice conditions did not permit the usual all-weekend gathering on the ice.

Staying out on the ice for days at a time is not uncommon for sturgeon chasers, including Odonnell.

He caught his personal best a few years ago in the middle of the night. It measured 77 and 1/4 inches, just shy of the Minnesota catch and release record (78 inches).

“That was at, I want to say, 1 a.m. It took a little over an hour to get it in. Pretty much in this spot right here,” he said.

Anyone interested in besting Odonnell’s record, or catching any sturgeon at all, can do so with their 2024 fishing license until February 28. Basic information about sturgeon, their biology, safe handling and more can be found at: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ gofishing/how-catch-lake-sturgeon.html Roy Heilman is a contributing writer for Press Publications. He can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

The 2nd Annual Festival of Trees was a huge success!

Thank you to our sponsors, community decorators, volunteers, and all who stopped by to get into the holiday spirit with us.

Become a Member!

823751

Exclusive access to events, tours, gift shop discounts, and more all year long! Scan the QR code or go to: whitebearhistory.org/membership

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

19

Bear girls win 3 of 5 over holiday break

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS WRITER

Showing marked improvement, the White Bear Lake girls hockey team won three of five games over the break, including two of three at a Lakeville tournament followed by a conference win, and a 2-0 loss to a team that beat them 9-1 earlier.

The Bears had just two previous wins but are now 5-10-2.

“The girls worked hard and have proven their strength of character through adversity this season,” said Claudia Verkerke, cocoach with Jeanette Bealke. “They are starting to reap their reward of hard work and diligence during the first half of the season.”

At Lakeville, the Bears won 4-0 over Shakopee (11-4-1) on goals by Madelyn Lee

PAUL DOWNEY | CONTRIBUTED

Amanda Smythe (right) blasted a shot that found the net against Mounds View/Irondale. (two), Paige Downey and Amanda Smythe, and 20 saves by goalie Macie Marston.

They won 3-1 over Lakeville South (6-8-1) with Marston stopping 30 of 31 shots while

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

Roed shines for USHL team Nolan Roed, who last winter scored 33 goals to help White Bear Lake reach the state tournament, is one of the leading scorers in the USHL this season, centering the top line for the Tri-City Storm, based in Kearney, Nebraska.

Heading into the holiday break, Roed had tallied 14 goals and 17 assists in 28 games, for 31 points, fourthNolan Roed most in the USHL. Roed played for Tri-City before and after the high school season last year, so he is a second-year player.

Downey, Kendall Roeser and Lee found the net. Marston was named star of both games along with Lee against Shakopee and Roeser against Lakeville.

BOYS BASKETBALL

“Last year was huge, and honestly, coming into the (USHL) was really eyeopening,” Roed stated in a feature story in minnesotahockeymag.com. “It showed you how fast the pace is and how strong guys are, and how much work you have to put in if you want to be on top of your game.”

Tri-City coach Marco Trevino cited Roed, a St. Cloud State recruit, as an excellent skater and “really smart player” who creates opportunities for himself and others.

Nolan’s older brother Lleyton, who previously played for Tri-City, currently plays for the Coachella Valley Firebirds of the AHL.

White Bear Lake raced to a quick 14-2 lead and stayed in control to defeat Centennial 73-61 in Circle Pines. Colin Piper led the Bears (3-3) with 21 points, including 9-for-11 on free shots. Rithy Sain sank 17 points and John Johnson 14. Centennial (6-2) kept some pressure on the Bears with Jackson Driessen pumping in 30 points but could not get within single digits. Max Johnson added 10 points.

Bruce Strand

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS GIRLS BASKETBALL

Mahtomedi won three games over the break while losing to No. 1 ranked Benilde-St, Margaret’s. The Zephyrs (83) fended off Stewartville 66-58 in a tournament at Northwestern, then lost to BSM 72-59. Sarah Poepard sank 27 points against Stewartville, shooting 5-for-7 on three’s. Anna Greene added 10 points and Grace Prose and Berkley Blaisdell nine each. Against BSM, Greene had 19 points and Poepard 14. Zahara Bishop hit 22 for BSM. The Zephyrs beat Tartan 74-25 as Greene netted 19 points, Poepard 18, Blaisdell 13 and Prose 12. They topped Austin 74-52 in an expo at KassonMantorville, led by Prose with 20 points and Poepard with 18. Berkley Blaisdell added 10 points and Greta Siess nine.

BOYS HOCKEY

Mahtomedi tallied three goals in the third period — by Brayden Fuerst, Laken Decker, and Mac Appert at 13:06 for the lead — to defeat Orono 4-3, then lost an overtime game to Cloquet-Esko-Carlton 3-2. Winston Wright had the first goal against Orono (7-6-2) and Wes Strub made 23 saves. No. 3 ranked C-E-C (12-1) beat the Zephyrs (4-8-1) on Bobby Thornton’s goal 15 seconds into overtime. Scoring for Mahtomedi were Cody Loida (power play) and Decker.

Zephyr goalie Jackson Chesak made 24 saves and CEC’s Jacob Iallonardo made 25.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Mahtomedi is 4-5 after losing three games over the break — to Wisconsin teams Menomonie 61-45 and New Richmond 67-62 at River Falls, and to Tartan 6954. Against Menomonie, Mark Graff sank 25 points. Against New Richmond, Graff notched 16 points, seven rebounds and five assists while Willie Roelofs had 15 points, seven rebounds and two blocks and Hank Roelofs 14 rebounds and nine points.

Against Tartan, Graff logged 18 points and nine rebounds, Hank Roelofs 16 points and 14 rebounds, and Willie Roelofs 12 points

Against Anoka (4-9-2), the Bears fell behind 4-0 and closed within 5-4 before falling 6-4 with an empty-net goal.

Scoring were Talia Domschot, Lee, Smythe and Maddie Belisle. In goal were Jillian Kopp (eight shots, five saves) and Marston (11 shots, nine saves). Lee made three assists. Anoka goalie Lauren Lafferty made 41 saves and Leah Amsler scored twice.

Returning to conference play, the Bears beat Mounds View/Irondale 5-2 as Lee blasted three goals, two on power plays, and Smythe netted two while Domschot made two assists. Marston saved 12 of 14 shots.

Woodbury (14-0-1) beat the Bears 2-0. Marston stopped 33 of 35 shots.

Woodbury won their first meeting by eight goals in November.

and eight rebounds.

GYMNASTICS

Mahtomedi placed third of eight teams in Class A at the annual Minnesota Girls Gymnastics Officials Association (MGGOA) in Park Center. Breck scored 136.45, Eastview 135.575 and Mahtomedi 132.900. Earning medals with top 10 placements were Lucy Otto, Margo Bruner, Cassia Hartman, Adele Schroeder, Lily Bush, Addi Eitel and Addison Briske.

BOYS WRESTLING

Mahtomedi won two of five matches at the UW-Eau Claire Holiday Duals. The Zephyrs had multiple forfeits due to injuries and absences. Evan McGuire was 5-0 at 215, Aidan Carlson 4-1 at 126, Aidan Boex 4-1 at 175, Sam White 4-1 at 160, and Shelby McFetridge was 3-2 against boys at 132. Owen Eigen, Lucas Iverson, and Henry Johnson each won two. The Zephyrs placed sixth of eight teams at Cambridge-Isanti. Carlson and McGuire were champions. In the finals, Carlson beat Seth Ramsdell of Little Falls 13-2 and McGuire beat Ivan Petrich of Little Falls 15-2. Boex placed second at 172. McGuire is 25-0 and ranked first in Class AA. Carlson is 19-5 and ranked ninth. Boex, a freshman, is 18-9.

GIRLS WRESTLING

Mahtomedi girls had two tournaments over the break. At St. Paul Harding, Shelby McFetridge was 3-0 to win her division and was named Outstanding Wrestler. Ranked No. 5 at 124 pounds, she pinned No. 6 Kalia Moe of Harding in the finals. Olivia Tofte was 3-0 and won her division. Elizabeth Carlson was 2-1 and placed second. Evie Karle was 1-2 to place third. At Champlin Park, McFettridge was 3-1 with two pins and placed fifth. Tofte, Carlson and Parker Pentilla each won one match.

Bruce Strand

BRUCE STRAND | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Rithy Sain sliced to the hoop for two of his 17 points against Centennial.

BOYS HOCKEY

In a duel of teams unbeaten in conference, White Bear Lake tipped Stillwater 3-1 at home. The Bears (82-1) are 6-0 in the Suburban East with Cretin-Derham Hall 5-0 and Stillwater 5-1. Evan Newlander scored twice against Stillwater, including a power play goal with 1:15 left for a 3-1 lead. Tyler Lalonde had the other goal and Leo Gabriel made 31 saves. Lute Myers scored short-handed for Stillwater (9-2). The Bears beat Class A power Hermantown 5-2 at home with

goals by Jack Stanius (two), Hunter Doroff, Nash Roed, and Noah Norman.

Gabriel made 23 saves against the Hawks (7-4-2).

GIRLS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake was 2-2 over the break, including a near-upset of No. 5 ranked Wayzata and a last-second win over Stewartville. Senior guard Addison Post tallied 75 points including a gamewinner. The Bears (7-6) lost to Wayzata 56-55 in the Granite City Classic, after trailing 35-22. Sophie Hawkinson led the Trojans (7-2) with 19 points. Post netted 16 points, Elise Dieterle 11, Abby O’Brien 10 and Chloe Theisen eight. The Bears made 20 of 29 free shots. “The whole team played well. We had them beat but couldn't finish it,” coach Jeremy Post said. The Bears came out flat and lost to Brainerd 52-36 the next day. Post had 14 points. The Bears won at Centennial 55-49 with Post hitting 21 points and Dieterle 15. The Bears nipped Stewartville 62-60 in an expo at Kenyon-Wanamingo as Post drove for an uncontested layup with 1.5 seconds left and totaled 24 points. Dieterle supplied 16 points and eight rebounds.

GYMNASTICS

White Bear Lake scored a season-best 140.3 and placed second of eight teams at the Princeton Invitational. Hopkins won with 140.75. Addy Mueller was third all-around (36.9), won bars (9.5), tied for third on floor (9.2) and was fourth on vault (9.2). Josie Mlejnek was seventh all-around (34.6), fifth on floor (8.95) and eighth in bars (8.4). Amelia Ahrens scored 34.15 and placed seventh on beam (9.0).

Grace Mueller totaled 33.0 and was sixth on vault (8.95). Harlie Peloquin tied for seventh on bars (8.5).

Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Madelyn Lee White Bear Lake Hockey January 8, 2025 Madelyn Lee has racked up 11 goals in nine games for White Bear Lake hockey, along with five assists. She was sorely missed when she sat out eight games with an injury. Lee logged five goals and four assists as the Bears won two of three in a Lakeville holiday tournament, then drilled three goals in a 5-2 win over Mounds View/Irondale. She has committed to St. Cloud State.

4457 White Bear Parkway, Ste B, White Bear, MN 55110 651-426-5254 info@4seasonsairwbl.com

20 WHITE BEAR PRESS

JANUARY 8, 2025

www.presspubs.com

A bi-weekly section where readers will be informed on subjects of seasonal interest, upcoming events and other timely topics.

Something else we all should take note of in the next couple of weeks is the renewal of our contract with Republic Services & how that will impact all of us. The Township extended our current contract out to the end of 2026, during which time our residents will all notice an increase in cost. If you have any questions about

your new bill, please contact the customer service line for Republic Services at 320252-9608.

Along those same lines, the Township’s Utility Commission has decided to reopen discussions on seasonal holds while our residents are away for extended periods of time over the winter months. We hope to have something in place for fall 2025.

That’s it for now… see you in 2025!

SPECIAL TOWN BUDGET MEETING REVIEW – Residents in attendance of White Bear Township’s Special Town Budget Meeting on December 3rd approved a final 2025 property tax levy of $6,210,324.00. The levy is a 9.30% increase over the 2024 tax levy.

The typical home in the Township saw market values increase of about 4.8% which when added to the property tax levy results in a property tax increase between $4.12 & $12.27 per month for homes valued at $256,624 & $513,247 respectively.

Residents also recommended to the Town Board a 2025-operating budget for the Township of $6,740,979, which is a 7.95% increase over the 2024-operating budget.

The main reason for the levy & budget increases are inflation & public safety increases.

TREE SALE REMINDER – The Township is offering a limited quantity of trees for sale at wholesale prices.

Ordering can be made by mail or in person with cash, check, or credit card.

Ordering is open NOW through March 1, 2025. Order forms can be found on our website or at Town Hall. The following types of trees are available to order: Princeton American Elm, Greenspire Linden, Sunburst Locust, Prairifire Crabapple, & Japanese Lilac. The price range is $32.51 – $43.75. Visit the Town’s website for more information.

For more information, visit the Town’s website at www.whitebeartownship.org or call Finance Officer Tom Kelly at (651) 747-2760.

whitebeartownship.org | 651.747.2750 |1281 Hammond Road, White Bear Township, Minnesota 55110

823503

CLERK’S CORNER – Greetings from the Township! Hello & happy holidays from the entire staff working on your behalf at White Bear Township! It is the end of 2024 & the beginning of 2025, which means a full reset on what to look forward to over the next 12 months. Just want to reiterate a point though as a reflection on this past year…the Township now officially has the 2nd lowest tax rate in all of Ramsey County!

Just another great reason to be here.

Snow Sculpture Contest returns to Stillwater

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Now in its fourth year, Stillwater’s Lowell Park will host an eye-popping handful of finely carved snow sculptures.

Twelve teams from 12 different countries will participate in the annual World Snow Sculpting Championship in January. Among many others, the teams will include Team Fjordwitches from Canada, Team Falcon from Mongolia, the Bocanegra Team from Spain and Sculptora Borealis from Wisconsin. All teams will compete for not just prize money, but also to take home the title of World Champion. The championship will be held from Jan. 15 through Jan. 26.

“It’s a great way to get outside, have a little wellness and come down at your leisure,” said Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Robin Anthony.

All 12 teams will arrive at Lowell Park at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, for the Kickoff Ceremony, which will feature a welcome by Mayor Ted Kozlowski.

Following a Tools Up! countdown at 9 a.m., when the teams will begin sculpting their creations, an opening ceremony will be held at the JX Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. The ceremony will allow attendees to meet with the teams during a social hour and dinner.

Starting from Jan. 15 through Friday, Jan. 17, the teams will build their sculptures between 9 a.m. and midnight

each day. By Saturday, Jan. 18, the teams will have from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to finish sculpting before the closing ceremony at 6 p.m. The ceremony will take place on the Main Stage, where the winning teams will be awarded first, second and third place, as well as the Artist’s Choice and People’s Choice awards. Trophies and prize money will be given to the winning teams.

While attendees can expect the return of past favorite activities, such as the Water Street Inn’s Indoor Market and Warming House (held from Jan. 17-19), new activites will make their official debut. This includes a monthlong “Taste of the Nations,” from Jan. 1 to 31. Twelve local restaurants will feature the cuisine of one of the 12 participating teams’ homelands and serve a special entrée native to that country. The Chamber of Commerce has not yet confirmed a list of participating restaurants. Event buttons will be sold from Jan. 13-26, allowing shoppers to get special features at different businesses throughout the area.

Other new features will include an “Accessibility Day” for seniors, veterans and disabled individuals from 10 to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 21. In partnership with American Legion Bayport, Limitless Cycling and Hometown Hero Outdoors, this day will allow these individuals to explore the area using Limitless Cycling-brand Action Freechairs. These chairs are specially made, all-terrain wheelchairs designed to “offer a new

World Snow Sculpting Championship event highlights: • Taste Of The Nations: Jan. 1-31 • Snow Slide: -Friday, Jan. 17, 4 - 9 p.m.

-Saturday, Jan. 18, 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

-Sunday, Jan. 19, 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

• Candlelit Winter Walk: Friday, Jan. 17, 5-8 p.m.

• Snowman Building Experience: Monday, Jan. 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Accessibility Day: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Fat Tire Bike Rally: Sunday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. sense of freedom, joy, and independence in nature,” according to the company website. The Bayport American Legion will sell water and hot chocolate on-site during this day.

Additional events will include a Candlelit Winter Walk from 5 to 8 p.m.

Jan. 17 along the Browns Creek Trail, and a “World’s Coolest Block Party” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Jan. 18, featuring a live DJ playing family-friendly music.

There will also be a Snowman Building Experience held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 20, where kids will get to build their own snowmen for display.

The Fat Tire Bike Rally, which

recently became a part of the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s “World Snow Celebration” festivities, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26. The course will start and end at River Siren Brewing on Main Street N., and participants can choose from three trail options. These include riding the 10-mile course or bypassing the two technical “racing” segments in Valley View Park (1.2 and 1.7 miles), shortening their course to 7.1 miles. More information on the ride can be found at www.bikereg.com/stillwaterfat-bike-rally-2025.

Anthony said that she hopes this year’s contest will allow attendees to appreciate different kinds of art and diversity from all the teams competing against one another. “There’s something for everybody,” noted Anthony, “for toddlers all the way to seniors. It’s a beautiful backdrop against the St. Croix River, and a wonderful, family-fun experience to appreciate the state of the arts.”

For a complete list of dates and events to register for, please visit the World Snow Celebration 2025 website at www. worldsnowcelebration.com/activities.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publications. You can reach him at lowdownnews@presspubs.com or 651-407-1229.

CENTER FOR DISEASE CONTROL BRIEF What’s your radon story?

White Bear Cheer

CONTRIBUTED

The White Bear Lake varsity and elementary cheerleading teams competed at the Frosty Fest competition held at St. Michael-Albertville High School Dec. 21, earning top honors. The 14-member varsity team was named champions of the Varsity Non-Tumbling I game day and traditional divisions, taking the highest traditional routine score of the entire competition. The 13-member elementary team placed first in its division. Both teams will perform at the White Bear Lake Cheer JamBEARee, to be held at White Bear Lake Area High School Jan.18.

Pictured (front row, from left) are Autumn Kohler, Angelina Marino, Hadley Thorson, Presley Manship, Sophia Tveit, Mara Upsend, Madisyn Hood, Malena Zacharias, Keira Keese, Arabella Karp and Jolene Poindexter; middle row, Nora Elliott, Addison Pierce, Jensen Brown, Katelyn Kaehler, Peyton Lee, Evelyn Nicholas, Holly Anderson, Eliana Jacoway, Briana Caliendo, Mikaela Caliendo and Sydney Leach; back row, Willow Maxwell, Reyna Piper, Avery Bach, Anna Lindholm and Ali Carnes.

January is National Radon Action Month. Over the last few years, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has chosen the last week of January to observe Radon Awareness Week.

The awareness campaign sheds light on the dangers of radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer deaths in the United States after cigarette smoking. Radon is a naturallyoccurring, radioactive gas. It is odorless, tasteless and invisible.

The scene is your house and your community.

The bad guy is radon, an invisible, silent homeinvader. You are the main character. Your family, friends and community members are in supporting roles. Your state radon control officer, radon mitigation (reduction) contractor and health care providers may be woven into your story as heroes.

January 27-31 is Radon Awareness Week. This year’s theme is “What’s Your Radon Story?”

Each day of the week features facts about radon with related graphics, social media messages and a highlighted radon story: • Monday: Who is affected by radon?

• Tuesday: What are the health effects of radon?

• Wednesday: Where are people exposed to radon?

• Thursday: When should I install a radon reduction system?