Turning tassels, chasing dreams
And they are off. White Bear Lake Area High School seniors have picked up their diplomas and turned their tassels from right to left. With diplomas in hand, members of the Class of 2026 will prepare to pursue their individual paths, from universities and trade schools to military service, the workforce and other opportunities yet to be discovered.
Vadnais fire station bonds face reversal after citizen outcry
JACKIE BUSSJAEGER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
VADNAIS HEIGHTS – It will take more than a firehose to put out the blaze of outrage among Vadnais Heights citizens who say that a proposed fire station places an unfair tax burden on residents.
Earlier in May, the council held a public hearing and voted to issue $33.3 million in Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) bonds to replace the city’s south fire station with a new station that better accommodates updated equipment, building systems, and health and safety measures for firefighters. By the time the bonds terminate in 2047, the city will have paid an estimated $54.5 million in combined principal and interest.
In order to pay back these bonds, the city plans to levy a gradually increasing property tax. According to tax impact estimates available on the city website, a median household may start off at a $3 per month ($45 per year) and pay $35 per month ($418 per year) by 2034.
Members of the public expressed concern that the tax increases required to fund the station will create financial hardship for Vadnais Heights residents: especially for retired and aging individuals who may be on a fixed income or looking to sell in the near future.
Citizens have put forward a petition to allow the matter to go to a public vote in this year’s elections, and the city is girding itself for the challenge by hiring a law firm and communications consultant to aid in the legal and public messaging aspects of the
White Bear Lake graduates look ahead with optimism
The following three speeches were given at White Bear Lake Area High School’s graduation ceremony Thursday, June 4 in the stadium.
Finnian Rourke McVeigh
Class of ‘26… Make some noise!!!
We’ve done it! We’re here! Whether you’ve been in the school district 13 years, 13 days, or anywhere in between, this is the moment everything has been building towards. And I mean everything. Every school dance, every math quiz, every spicy chicken sandwich, has made this moment what it is. But the most important part, of course, has been us. All of us,
The class of hardworking, fun, and kind people in front of me. The teachers who taught us life and academic lessons at the same time, the coaches and advisors, the amazing nutrition service staff, the paraprofessionals and administrators, the custodians who keep a building used by more than 2,700 people every day clean and safe, the school board, the student support staff; everyone, from our principal who we see daily, to the district center office staff who we might never have met, have helped us get to where we are now. And of course, let's not forget our parents and guardians. There are no words to
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
NAMES
Washington County Transportation Planner
Andrea Rehm has been recognized with the 2026 WTS Minnesota Woman to Watch Award.
Each year, WTS Minnesota, an organization that focuses on advancing women in the transportation industry, honors the achievements of members of the Minnesota transportation community through its recognition awards. Recipients are honored at their annual Scholarships & Recognitions Reception each spring. The Woman to Watch Award honors entry- to mid-level professionals who have already made a meaningful impact on the field.
At Washington County, Rehm contributes across a wide range of work, including grant writing, long-range transportation planning, and support for parks, trails and county facilities projects. She also serves as co-chair of the American Planning Association Minnesota Chapter’s Women in Planning Committee, where she actively supports and mentors other women building careers in planning and transportation.
DNR BRIEFS
Minnesota DNR to launch electronic licensing system
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has launched the first phase of a modernized electronic licensing system, replacing a platform that has been in use for more than 25 years.
The new system will initially handle fishing and hunting license sales. As of early June, the license data has been transferred to the new platform. The new electronic licensing system
CONTRIBUTED
Two White Bear Lake Area High School students will tour in Australia and New Zealand with the Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies. Martin Hennig, a senior, plays cello; and Sylvia Hennig, a junior, plays double bass. The trip includes a performance at the Sydney Opera House.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced 3 local 2026 high school graduates as among 2,500 winners of National Merit Scholarships financed by U.S. colleges and universities. Caitlyn Clark, White Bear Lake Area High School graduate, received the National Merit University of Minnesota Scholarship; Amber Becker, Mahtomedi High School graduate, received the National Merit University of Iowa Scholarship; and Finnian McVeigh, White Bear Lake Area High School graduate, received the National Merit Texas A & M University Scholarship.
The awards provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the scholarship.
is expected to be available June 9. The DNR said staff and partner PayIT will provide customer support during the transition, including user guides and instructional videos.
A second phase, which will add recreational vehicle and watercraft titling and registration services, will be launched at a later date. Until then, those services will continue operating through the existing system. When fully implemented, the new licensing platform is expected to support millions of transactions annually
BUSINESS BRIEF
COMING SOON STRAWBERRIES
Come out to Pine Tree Orchard to enjoy Minnesota Grown Strawberries. And those fresh strawberry pies and other treats from our bakery…Oh My! Call after June 15th for a harvest update. 651 429-7202
PINE TREE
Apple Orchard
North of White Bear Lake www.pinetreeappleorchard.com
Hall.
and manage more than 400 license and permit products. For more information, visit https://engage.dnr.state. mn.us/new-electronic-license-system.
DNR offers webinar series
The Minnesota DNR is offering new webinar series every other Wednesday at noon throughout the summer. The lineup for the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series includes the following topics: Muskellunge in Minnesota on June 17;
Vote for local business owner in national contest
Todd Kendall, owner and creative director of Oak & Iron Rooted in the Community in downtown White Bear Lake, is in a national artist contest.
The People's Artist contest invites creators to “Step forward, be seen, and support meaningful social impact through art.” It is presented by actor Johnny Depp.
The People's Artist champion will have an exclusive exhibit at the Art of Elysium's Art Salon in Los Angeles, be featured in Artforum Magazine, and take home $25,000. The contest winner is chosen by number of votes.
Kendall has advanced to the Top 5, and voting closes at 7 p.m., Thursday, June 11. To learn more or to cast a vote, go to peoplesartist.org/2026/todd-kendall-00Z9.
Surveying fish in the BWCAW on July 1; How we sample rare or threatened fish species in Minnesota on July 15; Minnesota moose research on July 29; and Exploring changes in duck harvest distributions in the central and Mississippi flyways between 1960-2019 om Aug. 12.
Webinars are captioned and free. Registration is required to attend the live events. Descriptions of each episode, registration information, and archives can be found at mndnr.gov/ discover.
Rodeo finals rides into Hugo
Movie in the Park
Saturday, June 13, 2026 Movie begins at dusk 9:00 p.m. FREE ADMISSION
and
The 2026 WTS Woman to Watch Award winner, Washington County Transportation Planner Andrea Rehm (center), is recognized by the County Board of Commissioners and staff from the Public Works Department.
CONTRIBUTED
This weekend, being dead broke will be a good thing. Dead Broke Arena in Hugo is hosting the 2026 Minnesota Rodeo High School State Finals at 7 p.m., Friday, June 12, and Saturday, June 13. Events start at noon on Sunday, June 14. Pictured above Minnesota High School Rodeo Queen Pearl Overby barrel races at Dead Broke Arena in Hugo.
WHAT’S HAPPENING • WHAT’S HAPPENING • WHAT’S HAPPENING
FRIDAYS WITH FIREFIGHTERS
When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, June 12
Where: White Bear Lake South Fire Station, 2240 County Road E
Details: Get outside for activities and fire safety education.
Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov Birchwood Music in the Park
BIRCHWOOD MUSIC IN THE PARK
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 14
Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park, Birchwood
Details: Any Day Now plays classic rock and roll and country. Bring a lawnchair or blanket. Contact: cityofbirchwood.com
SPEAKER SERIES: RAMSEY COUNTY'S FOOD SCRAPS PICKUP PROGRAM
When: 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, June 16
Where: Vadnais Heights City Hall, 800 County Road E
Details: Learn how the program works and how keeping food scraps out of the trash can help provide economic, environmental and health benefits to the community. Register online. Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com/671/Speaker-Series
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 16
Where: Bellaire Beach Park, 2499 S. Shore Blvd., White Bear Lake
Details: Hike paved paths and sidewalks, approx. 3 miles.
Contact: stpaulhike.com
PET EXTRAVAGANZA
When: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 17
Where: Mahtomedi High School, fields 9 & 10
Details: Bring a costumed pet for the pet parade at
BIKE RODEO
When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, June 13
Where: White Bear Lake Public Works building, 3950 Hoffman Road
Details: Participants will practice bike handling through obstacle courses, sharpen their riding techniques, and learn the rules of the road from public safety professionals. Also helmet safety and bike inspections. Free; rain or shine.
Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov/publicsafety/ page/bike-rodeo
5:30 p.m. then visit vendor booths and a food truck. Pets must be leashed. No registration required. Contact: 651-407-2018 or communityed.mahtomedi. k12.mn.us
COPS AND BOBBERS
When: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, June 18
Where: Lions Park, White Bear Lake
Details: Kids ages 7-12 who live or attend school in White Bear Lake are selected for a one-onone fishing experience with local police officers. Nomination-based and space limited. Equipment and lunch provided.
Contact: 651-429-8559 or whitebearlakemn.gov/ publicsafety/page/cops-and-bobbers
RED CROSS BLOODMOBILE
When: 8 a.m.-1:45 p.m. Friday, June 19
Where: White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782 parking lot, 4496 Lake Ave. S.
Details: Hosted by the VFW Auxiliary; donors will receive a gift card for a food order at VFW 1782. Call or go online to schedule and appointment. Contact: 800-733-2767 or redcrossblood.org
MARKETFEST
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays, June 18 through July 30
Where: Downtown White Bear Lake
Details: Community summer festival with 160+ food and vendor booths, live music, car show, kids activities, specials at local merchants. Contact: marketfestwbl.com
MANITOU DAYS GRAND PARADE
When: 6:30 p.m. Friday, June 19
Where: Begins at 2nd Street and Clark Avenue; ends at Memorial Beach
Details: Floats, marching bands, local organizations, and more travel through downtown and along Lake Avenue toward the beach. Contact: manitoudays.com
CONTRIBUTED
Take a minivacation
Summer day trips can be like a mini-vacation. We recently celebrated my mom's 83rd birthday in Red Wing. It was a short drive and the mapping progams gave us a route via the Gaylord Nelson Memorial Highway on the Wisconsin side. The winding roads are in pretty good shape, and the scenery is beautiful. We passed through a few small towns where there were numerous options to shop, dine and explore. Many of these small communities have art fairs and festivals in the summer. If you are in need of a short getaway but can't take a full-fledged vacation, look at the many destinations that are an hour or two drive away. All along the St. Croix River Valley to the north and the Mississippi to the south are small communities that are perfect for exploring in a day or overnight trip. To our readers north of the metro: I recommend taking a day trip to the White Bear Lake area and exploring the quaint downtown and lakeside trail.
Publisher’s View
Carter Johnson
In the Bear Tank
Many of our schools have opportunities where residents, business leaders, parents and others can volunteer for special programs or be guest speakers. I’ll never forget being invited to be one of the judges for the “Muskie Tank” competition that was launched at Century College with the help of the Mishek family. It was amazing to be in a room with high-level executives, engineers, product designers and business owners as we listened to students present their ideas.
The spin on the popular TV show “Shark Tank” has become a trend. If you haven't seen the show, entrepreneurs present the products they have developed in order to get investment capital from wellknown business leaders and innovators, including Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Barbara Corcoran and Kevin O'Leary.
Last week I had the opportunity to get back in the classroom at White Bear Lake Area High School and listen to students' presentations in the “Bear Tank.” I was in awe of some of the ideas during that session. One was relevant to food waste, and it was impressive. The aspiring entrepreneur has an idea to sell not only the invention, but also to expand the idea to other concepts to help people with food waste and recycling. It was something I could potentially see in our local hardware store that our residents would want to purchase. Another was a fishing boat apparatus to improve safety and efficiency. Another was an app that could capitalize on the old barter system and greatly reduce prices by not charging a tax. The last idea had to do with student safety on school grounds and in the parking lot, that I could see being taken to the next level and possibly rolled out in school districts across the state and country. All of the ideas and inventions presented had real merit; none of the presenters had ideas for how to generate the start-up funding needed to take their products to market and revenue streams. We as volunteers and local business people can help nudge students to realize this reality and set ablaze their small business start-ups.
One additional benefit of the Bear Tank was that students made contacts within the local business community. Some conversations grew into potential summer job opportunities at local businesses and other networking ideas. It was so fun to be back volunteering in a place where I got my high school education. Imagine where we could be if more people in our community would spend time volunteering and nudging each other in a positive way, versus criticizing our local institutions from behind the keyboard. Share grace with your friends and neighbors in the community, and get out and volunteer when you can.
Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.
Living with jumping worms
NMovers & Shakers
Michelle Bruhn
othing reminds that the only constant is change quite like gardening… Finding jumping worms in your garden isn’t as devastating as we thought, but we’ll need to make some adaptations. Jumping worms are an aggressive, invasive species destroying garden soils across North America. Unlike beneficial European earthworms, they stay in the top layer of soil and consume organic matter at an alarming rate. They leave behind dry, loose soil that lacks nutrients and cannot hold water.
How to identify jumping worms
They thrash (jump) when touched. The adults have a smooth, milky-white or gray band (clitellum) that fully encircles their body. Their skin feels sleek, dry, and rigid, rather than slimy. The surrounding soil looks like uniform, granular coffee grounds.
You can stop the spread Check all incoming mulch, compost, and soil for cocoons or worms. Wash soil off shared plants before planting them. Scrub shoes, tools, and tires to remove
hidden egg cocoons before moving between gardens.
So you have jumping worms
Your best bet is handpicking them from the soil. Dispose of them safely in a plastic bag and putting them into the garbage. Do not release them alive.
You could consider solarizing the soil as jumping worm cocoons (eggs) die when the temperature exceeds 104°F for three days. You can get the top few inches of soil that hot by covering the infected soil with clear plastic during the peak of summer. No chemical treatments are currently labeled to safely eradicate jumping worms without harming the soil ecosystem. Management relies on prevention, physical removal, and heat.
Adapting your garden
With jumping worms, you can adapt your garden strategy to minimize the damage. Give them a thick layer of mulch like leaves and straw, or in flower beds, bigger hardwood chips, to keep them working on that organic matter rather than stripping the soil below. Switch to deep-rooted native plants that can survive in loose, degraded soil.
For my vegetable garden beds that have them, I’ve found that carrots, beets and root veggies do much better than broccoli etc. I’ll also be starting to use liquid fertilizers applied directly to plant bases, since the topsoil can no lon-
ger retain granular nutrients.
Because jumping worms destroy the top 2 to 4 inches of soil, shallow-rooted crops and direct-sown crops struggle to establish. I had very poor germination of direct sown seeds in my infected beds this spring.
Resilient nightshades and alliums
Many robust, established plants continue to yield well because their primary roots extend far below the active feeding zone of the worms. If you plant tomatoes and peppers as large, deeply buried plants, they’ll readily grow a deep enough root system to combat the jumping worm damage. Fall-planted garlic starts also do well. Perennial vegetables like asparagus and horseradish with large, mature root structures are not bothered by surface-level soil structural changes.
Jumping worms will change what thrives in your garden, but there are still great plant options, and simple ways to live with them.
That’s what gardening is, creatively dealing with whatever nature throws at us, right!?
More information at: https:// extension.umn.edu/identify-invasive-species/jumping-worms
Michelle Bruhn is founder of ForksintheDirt.com. She’s a local food advocate, educator and coauthor of the book, “Small-Scale Homesteading.”
Sign petition
Vadnais Heights City Council unanimously approved the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the proposed South Fire Station project. For many residents, the approval raised concerns not only about the project itself, but also about the process used to approve it.
Throughout the review process, there appeared to be limited in-depth examination of several technical and landuse issues. Residents seeking detailed answers were often informed that remaining questions would be addressed after project approval through future engineering review, permitting, or design work. Many taxpayers may find that approach backwards. Significant questions are typically expected to be resolved before approval, not afterward.
Questions were also raised regarding setbacks, site constraints and variance-related requirements. Some residents left with the impression that because the City owns the property, the project was not being held to the same standards that would apply to a private property owner or developer. Whether accurate or not, the appearance of unequal treatment can undermine public confidence in the process.
Additional concerns involved stormwater management, drainage assumptions and engineering comments that were still under review during the approval process. Residents deserve assurance that these issues have been fully addressed and documented.
Another point receiving little discussion was that all current fire apparatus fit within the existing station. Residents may also be surprised to learn that project plans include a fire training tower, a feature many expected would receive greater public discussion regarding its purpose, cost and long-term impact.
The City’s design firm has stated that the proposed facility is expected to have a service life of approximately 40 to 50 years. Given that timeframe, many residents believe the project warranted more detailed review before committing future taxpayers to a facility that could shape city operations and budgets for generations.
The issue is not whether public safety matters—it does. The issue is whether a project of this magnitude received the level of scrutiny, transparency and objective review that taxpayers expect. Petitions requesting a public vote on this project must be submitted by June 15. For more information, project documents, and petition details, visit LetVHVote.com.
Taxpayers feel disenfranchised
When the City of Vadnais Heights built the Vadnais Heights Sports Center, it issued $26 million worth of bonds. After the city defaulted on these bonds, the city’s credit rating plunged to junk bond status. In the following years, residents shouldered significant increases in fees collected by the city on their water bills, their sanitary sewer bills and their storm sewer bills. Residents have also experienced significant increases in the franchise fees that the city collects from residents’ cable bills, electricity bills and gas bills. But even with these increases, the aging infrastructure of our city’s roads and sewers has deteriorated. During this time, residents have also experienced significant tax levy increases. Yet many residents feel there has not been a significant increase in services the city provides. Now many residents do not feel appreciated for the sacrifices we have made to help dig the city out of this hole. Instead, many residents feel we have been increasingly disenfranchised from the decision making process of the City of Vadnais Heights. Now the city approved issuing bonds to pay for a projected $33 million fire station. This figure does not include the interest. Since many residents were upset by the city’s decision to issue these bonds, the city approved additional spending for thousands of dollars to hire a PR firm and a PR attorney. Since the city is spending residents' money to do this, I sincerely hope that the city will use this PR firm and PR attorney to help educate residents about the petition process that would allow all residents to vote on this matter.
Troy Kunze Vadnais Heights
Let voters decide
I’ve lived in Vadnais Heights for more than 20 years. I’ve served with the Vadnais Heights Fire Department for 19 years, spending over 17 of those years as a captain on the paid on-call side. I urge every resident to sign the petition to halt progress on the new fire station. Such a significant investment in our community shouldn't be made without hearing from the public. If you're in favor of the project, surely allowing everyone to share their views does no harm. Additionally, this project represents only the beginning of potential financial challenges. The city plans to pay interest only on the debt incurred, which will end up costing taxpayers millions in future interest payments—a move I consider irresponsible. The station design is unnecessarily extravagant and includes features such as a private garage wing
for the chief’s vehicle, which is wasteful. City officials argue that this supports a shift to a full-time staffing model. However, we already have crews working around the clock every day of the year. Currently, full-time staff work weekday shifts, leaving weekends and holidays for paid on-call staff. Adding full-time employees for 24-hour shifts—currently handled by part-timers—merely increases costs for taxpayers, without improving service. Full-time captains earn about $100,000 annually plus benefits, and firefighters make $80,000$90,000 plus benefits, while as a parttime captain, my hourly wage is $20.39. Transitioning to full-time staffing for a four-person crew would result in a substantial payroll increase.
Overall, spending is out of control. With a population of approximately 13,000, our city lacks the tax base to fund a full-time fire department independently.
Sign the petition and let voters decide. Election day is approaching, and it’s time for new leadership in our city.
Dan Anderson Vadnais Heights
Watch the video
Throughout his term on the ISD 624 school board, Dan Skaar has frequently voiced his commitment to accountability. The board’s recent decision to censure and disavow him reflects that same principle.
Board materials from May 18, 2026, include a resolution (http://bit.ly/43aX2Pl) summarizing the findings of an independent legal investigation that found violations of the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (Minn. Stat. § 13.43), state Open Meeting Law (Minn. Stat. § 13.D), and multiple violations of Board Policies 209 and 215. The full video recording of the May 18 meeting is also available (https://bit.ly/4udtPy0) and provides an opportunity to hear the discussion firsthand.
Whether one agrees with every aspect of the Board’s decision, accountability requires that elected officials be held to the same standards they expect of others. The Board’s action demonstrates their commitment to the Code of Ethics they’ve pledged to uphold (https://bit. ly/4fr3kBD) including compliance with “all federal, state, and local laws” and “all school district policies as adopted by the School Board.”
Judy Lissick Vadnais Heights
Sticking to the issues
As a delegate to the Republican convention this past weekend, I was quite
White Bear Lake Area
disheartened by tactics used by both the Tafoya and Demuth campaigns. Between votes, they passed out flyers in which they maligned, or at the least, put into question their opponent’s integrity. Adam Schwarze and Kendall Qualls both took the high road and stuck to their campaign issues without negative rhetoric in response to their opponents.
I urge people, when they vote they take into consideration those who stuck to the issues as opposed to those using what I consider an inappropriate approach.
Need more who ask questions
I am a White Bear Lake area community member. I am overjoyed that one member of the local school board is willing to ask difficult questions and demand accountability. I am also seriously disappointed that it is only one member of the board who appears to be willing to do so on a regular basis.
The community is still waiting for an accounting of how the money from the recent record-size bond issue was spent. I realize that with the current leadership it is highly unlikely that we will ever receive this information. I feel that it is more likely that I will be struck by lightning than the community receiving this information. The school district’s attitude appears to be “just give us what we want, and don’t ask questions.”
Thankfully, Mr. Skaar is willing to ask the tough questions. Hopefully he will remain on the White Bear School Board for many years to come. The community needs more representatives like him.
Stop aid to Israel
People - it’s a fact that since 1945, the United States has given Israel $4 Billion dollars in weaponry and aid so it could, and did, bully around its foreign neighbors.
Now as Trump struggles for a clue to end his 5-month Netanyahu-coaxed incursion into Iran, Israel continues to ignore the negotiated ceasefire between the US and Iran by attacking and bombing Lebanon day after day.
Trump, if you want a lasting peace and meaningful ceasefire, you must immediately stop all aid (military and monies) to your buddy, war criminal Bibi Netanyahu, and the State of Israel. NOW! In God we trust and pray.
Janet Corrigan Vadnais Heights
Patrick J. Kenny White Bear Lake
Donald Jorgenson Vadnais Heights
Jim Brunzell, Jr. Vadnais Heights
SPEECHES: High school graduates
express the scale of your importance. All of us played our role, all of us got here together, and today, all of us will take a bow.
So welcome, everyone, to our victory lap.
Over the next few hours, we will celebrate. We'll celebrate all that our efforts have contributed to this school and our community. We’ll celebrate the leadership we showed as captains, club leaders, and role models, as well as how we navigated a tumultuous year in our state, on top of all the usual changes and challenges that accompany senior year. And later, we’ll celebrate where our efforts will bring us in the future.
We have accomplished so much together, and later, when we line up, and accept our diplomas, and flip the tassels over the funky hats we’re all wearing, it will be one last accomplishment. Though I have no doubt that every single one of us will carry in our hearts and minds a piece of our time as Bears, what we do today is still our last act together. We will soon all be setting off on different paths. To make new connections, new relationships, new ideas, new memories.
Maybe that makes you sad, maybe happy, maybe both, or perhaps you just want me to wrap this up. But if you feel anything during this celebration, I hope that it will be hope. As you think over everything, your own memories as well as the words of those who speak after me, think over it through a lens of hope, and be excited for what comes next.
So with that I invite you to sit back, relax, and bask in the glory of our achievement. We deserve it.
Go Bears!
Jensen Richard Vadnais - Look to the future speech
YOU are ready
White Bear Lake Class of 2026, We did it!
Before I begin, I want to acknowledge all the families, friends, teachers, administrators, and staff in the audience tonight. The positive impact you all have made on these graduates does not go unnoticed and I want to thank you all for helping to shape and mold this amazing group of graduates. I also want to thank you all, the Class of 2026, for creating a welcoming community that looks out for each other and for having resilience throughout your school careers. Through all the challenges and accomplishments, whether it be
a pandemic or moving to a new high school, we have all stuck together, and I am so grateful to have gone on this journey with all of you. I know for a lot of us here tonight, today and the weeks ahead are full of a variety of emotions; joy, excitement, impatience, and maybe some doubt or fear. For those of you who might be feeling some nerves about the years ahead, much like I am, I want to share with you three words I have tried to remind myself these past few weeks: you are ready.
We live in a world where popular culture and social media is full of people trying to tell you how you are not good enough, or not ready for the road ahead. I am here to tell you tonight that could not be further from the truth. Each and every one of you has experiences and lessons from your past 18 years that have prepared you for this journey. Your diploma is more than a piece of paper, it is a culmination of the effort and resilience you have put in both inside and outside of these school walls, and the experiences that have molded you into who you are. It is ok to doubt, to fear, or to feel lost. These are not signs of weakness, or signs to lose confidence in who you are, these are reminders that you are human. You are not alone in these feelings and struggles. In the seats next to you are hundreds of other students who are going to embark on similar adventures as you are, and in the audience there are thousands of people who have supported you along the way and will continue to do so in this next chapter. Don’t be afraid to lean on others when you are lost and try your best to be someone others can lean on. No one has life all figured out, but everyone has unique strengths and knowledge that when put together, help to create a clearer picture on how to solve life’s challenges. So have confidence as you move into this new journey, and don’t underestimate the positive impact you can make in this world. You all are capable of being the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow! Be bold, try your best, be kind to others, and as the band journey once said “don’t stop believing”. I wish my fellow graduates the best for the future. Thank you so much! Have a wonderful evening! Go Bears!!!!
Luke Preston Hilgers - Reflections of the Past
The Fruits of Investment:
Hello, Class of 2026, and congratulations!
My name is Luke Hilgers, and it is my honor and privilege to be standing before you tonight to reflect on our time here at WBL, but before I say any more, I want you all to think of someone who believed in your potential before you fully believed it yourself - someone who invested
in you before you felt ready. Now, remember that person for me.
The building that lies just over your shoulders has been our home for all four years of high school. Freshman year started in the seemingly neverending circles of OG north, and by semester two, we transitioned to the studio classrooms with lots of glass and no doors. Come junior year, that big white wall splitting the union was gone, and over 2500 students across four grades filled the school. Having walked these halls at each stage of the renovation, which no other class can say they did, our building has proved to be more than just a backdrop, but a shared investment in our futures.
past thirteen years have invested in us. Showing up early and staying late, they gave more than what was required of them. In classrooms, on fields, on stage, in the hallways, teachers and coaches have supported us when we struggled and pushed us when we needed it, helping us grow not just as students, but into the best version of ourselves.
Our high school experience has been shaped by a community that didn’t just support us in words, but in action. They chose to invest in us before fully knowing who we would become, and challenged us to make the most of new opportunities. Every space in our new high school reflects a belief that students deserve an environment where they can grow, explore, and succeed. And we have done just that!
The fall musical, Cinderella, saw record-setting attendance of over 4000 community members and received an outstanding overall performance. Athletes across 7 teams qualified to represent the Bears at the state level.
For the first time, both the Band and Choir ensembles were recognized by the Minnesota Music Educators Association for their excellent performance in the same year - I could go on and on. Whether it’s the one-of-a-kind athletic facilities, the Performing Arts Center, expanded educational opportunities, or simply the collaborative areas where ideas took shape and relationships were made, each program has been elevated in a way that has directly impacted us.
Just as the community has, our many teachers and coaches over the
And we can’t forget our parents and families who have been with us every step of the way. They invested in us long before high school - through the early mornings, late nights, countless rides, crazy grocery bills, and the many other quiet sacrifices that we may not notice. They taught us lessons that won’t show up on a piece of paper. How to handle failure. How to lead with integrity. How to keep going when things get difficult and when decisions are hard. As we walk on stage tonight to grab our diplomas, remember that this isn’t just our achievement, but a reflection of their love and unwavering faith in our future.
We’ve seen firsthand what happens when people invest in something they believe in. Our community came together to build a school. Teachers and coaches dedicated themselves to guiding students. Families committed from day one to shaping us into the young adults we are today. So, Class of 2026, as we all go our separate ways, what do you choose to invest in? How can you be that person you thought of a minute ago for someone else? I encourage you to hold on to the things that you care about most. Give it your time, your resources, and your energy, because investment creates impact. It builds opportunities that change lives, and just like we’ve experienced here, it can create success that reaches far beyond what you may see yourself. To our community, staff, coaches, and families, thank you! As a result of your choice to invest in what you believe in, we leave this stage today ready to pay that investment forward to the world.
Class of 2026, it's our turn, so let’s make an impact!
And for one last time, GO BEARS!
Gionni Pescosolido White Bear Lake Area High School
Our sweet Gionni! You went from being the best baby to an absolute joy to watch out on many soccer fields. Keep your focus & faith and remember to “hang on to your helmet” in all that you do. We love you & could not be more proud. Congratulations. -Mom & Dad
to our dad and mom, Bob and Pat Perkins, on their 70th wedding anniversary June 16. Blessings to you as you celebrate this incredible milestone.
All our love, DCM&K, our spouses, your grandchildren and great grandchildren
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.
Jensen Richard Vadnais
Meet the Boats
Scotty H
Runabout
Coronet
Nice Eh
Meet the Boats
Owner: O’Connor/Johnson Family Boat Year: 1956 Make: Shepherd Length: 18’ Width: 7’ Engine(s): Chrysler Ace V-Drive
Edgar A
Owner: Dennis Trooien Boat Year: 1957 Make: CronaCraft Length: 14’ Width: 6’ Engine(s): 1957 Johnson SeaHorse 35hp
Yellow Jacket
Small Block Chev V-8
Glastron
Owner: Eric Flom Boat Year: 1969 Make: Glastron Length: 17’ Width: 7’ Engine(s): Chevy 327 Corvette
Back Then
Owner: Bob and Lynette Vosika Boat Year: 1933 Make: Lake Tomahawk Length: 14 Width: 4 Engine(s): 1934 Caille Model 109
Cruisers Inc
Owner: Jerry Hahn Boat Year: 1963 Make/Model: Cruisers INC Classic Lapstrake Length: 16’ Engine: 1965 60HP JOHNSON O/B
Owner: Legacy of the Lakes Museum
Boat Year: 1958 Make: Chris Craft Length: 19’ Width: 8’ Engine(s): Dearborn Interceptor V-8 215hp
Bonnie
Owner: Brian Nordskog Boat Year: 1961 Make: Larson All American Length: 17’ Width: 7’ Engine(s): 130hp jet drive
Yankee Girl II
Century Resorter
Educational foundation presents distinguished educator award
The White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation (WBLAEF) recently presented its 2026 Lynn Mielke Distinguished Educator Award to Becky Butters-LaVahn, a special education Emotional Behavioral Disorders (EBD) teacher at Lincoln Elementary.
Butters-LaVahn was nominated by Traci Indlecoffer, Kris Clyne, Jen Finger, Tracy Hargesheimer, Brenda Heaton, Rebeccah Holman, Courtney Kelly, Anna Levins, Alleks Mitchell, Emily Paradise, Joelle Saither and several additional unnamed staff.
Mielke was a special education teacher in the White Bear Lake Area School District for more than 25 years. She was known as a warm and loving person who worked to create a positive environment for everyone. After her passing, her family and friends initiated this award to honor her and district employees who followed in her footsteps, always putting at the forefront their compassion and love for children.
For more than a decade, ButtersLaVahn has served as Lincoln
Elementary's EBD teacher, creating a supportive environment where students with diverse needs can thrive academically, socially and emotionally. She is known for her high expectations, unwavering commitment and ability to help every student feel valued and capable. She even taught students through their windows at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Butters-LaVahn connects families with resources, provides essential support and creates meaningful opportunities for her students. In addition to leading a team of paraprofessionals and managing individualized programming across multiple grade levels, she serves as a trusted mentor and resource for colleagues. Through her compassion, advocacy and commitment to student success, she has made a lasting impact on students, families and the entire Lincoln Elementary community.
Lincoln Elementary staff members shared the following reflections on Becky's impact:
"She unconditionally loves and
serves our students and their families. She pours into our students and tirelessly works to help them reach not only academic goals but teaches them social, emotional and life skills as well," Emily Paradise said.
"Becky's students feel SAFE and CARED FOR which fosters an
environment for students' successful growth both academically and emotionally,” Kris Clyne said.
"She cares deeply that her students develop the skills needed to have a successful future. She makes sure her students know they are seen, supported and valued,” Alleks Mitchell said.
Other nominees for the award included: Sara Cobb, White Bear Lake Area High School; Joanne Forsythe, Mariner Middle School; Christina Hayden, Matoska International Elementary; Tracy Holly, Oneka Elementary; Jesse Kelley, Central Middle School; Steven McSorley Schoenthaler, Birch Lake Elementary; Ellen Nelson, Central Middle School; Laura Schleed, Lincoln Elementary; and Megan Sweeney, Otter Lake Elementary
Applications for the 2027 Lynn Mielke Distinguished Educator Award will be available early next year. For more information, contact the foundation office at 651-407-7696 or visit the foundation website at www.wblaef.org.
• Voting online from June 10th - 21st at presspubs.com/allamericanbears
• All American Bear winner will be highlighted in Press Publications 250 American Anniversary special commemorative, printed in the July 1st edition of the
CONTRIBUTED
Traci Indlecoffer, Becky Butters-LeVahn and Lincoln Elementary Principal Brian Morris.
Brodie Law Office
One of
Clint Hallmark Enterprises is your small job specialist. Clint specializes in small jobs that the others don’t do. Clint Hallmark is a lifelong area resident who has been meeting the community’s carpentry needs for over 45 years.
Hallmark Enterprises also does windows, doors, locks, siding, small roofs, odd jobs and decks as well as ceiling texturizing winter damage repair, tree and hedge trimming and roof snow removing.
Free estimates are cheerfully given. The small job specialist with the small price and high quality that counts. Call 651-653-9920. See Clint’s ad weekly under “Carpentry.”
I
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Bears basketball names new head coaches
White Bear Lake Area High School recently announced the hiring of two coaches for its basketball program.
Jeremy Post will be the new head coach of the boys basketball program, and Anna Sanders will be the new head coach of the girls basketball program.
Jeremy Post
“We are thrilled to have Jeremy Post leading our boys’ basketball program,” said Activities Director Brian Peloquin. “Jeremy is a proven leader who understands what
it means to build relationships, develop young people, and create a championship culture. His passion for White Bear, commitment to students, and history of success make him the perfect fit to lead our program moving forward.”
Since 2006, Post has served as the head girls’ basketball coach at White Bear Lake Area High School. During his tenure leading the girls program, Post guided the Bears to a state runner-up finish in 2010, third place at the state tournament in 2022, and fourth-place finishes in 2011 and 2016. His teams captured nine Section 4AAAA Championships and state tournament appearances along with six Suburban East Conference
Championships.
Post was named Minnesota State Coach of the Year in 2022 and was inducted into the Girls Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2024. He has also earned Section and Conference Coach of the Year honors more than 10 times throughout his coaching career. In addition to leading the girls’ basketball program, Post has served as a boys’ basketball assistant coach from 2005-2007 and has been a varsity football assistant coach since 2005. He also served as a middle school golf coach from 2014-2016.
“I am very excited to be moving over to the boys’ basketball program,” Post said. “It is very tough to leave the girls’ program and the amazing kids and people that I have been blessed to work with over the past 20 years. I am grateful and honored to be given the opportunity to give whatever I can to the boys’
program and hope to make a positive impact on all the boys and their experience.”
Anna Sanders
After graduating from WBLAHS, Sanders continued her academic and basketball career at Gustavus Adolphus College in Saint Peter, Minnesota, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing with minors in Latin and public health.
“Anna is an outstanding fit for our girls basketball program,” Peloquin said. “She understands the tradition and expectations of White Bear basketball because she has experienced them firsthand. Her
applewood
applewoodnb@gmail.com
Applewood Pointe New Brighton 1900 Rush Lake Trail New Brighton, MN 55112
Applewood Pointe New Brighton 1900 Rush Lake Trail New Brighton, MN 55112
BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS
Zephyrs excel at state track, led by record-breaking champs
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The Mahtomedi boys track team collected two gold medals, one silver medal and a second-place finish in team points at the state Class 2A track meet that concluded Saturday at St. MichaelAlbertville.
The Zephyr boys had 47 points, second only to Mankato East’s 71. Mahtomedi collected nine medals in all, seven by the boys and two by girls.
Andrew Russell, senior, repeated as high jump champion with 6-11 1/2, the highest leap in all three classes and the Class 2A meet record. Russell succeeded on his second attempt after making all previous heights on his first try. The North Dakota State recruit’s previous best was 6-10 1/4.
Ericdarren Daafour, junior, was triple
TRACK AND FIELD
White Bear Lake senior Tomi Animasaun placed third in the 300 intermediate hurdles at the state Class 3A track meet Saturday. With a personal best time of 38.00, he moved up from a sixth-place finish last year. Animasaun was also 10th in the 110 highs (16.07), missing the finals by one slot. The Bears had one other
jump champion with 46-7, a foot farther than his section first-place leap, breaking the Class 2A meet record. He placed seventh in long jump with 21-6 3/4.
The rest of the points came from two sophomore runners — Jaxon Mitchell, second in the 200 dash (21.88) and eighth in 100 dash (10.93), and Parker Maas, fourth in the 1600 run (4:19.83) and seventh in the 800 run (1:59.23).
Two Zephyr girls ran to podium finishes. Xiaobao Liang, sophomore, was fifth in 200 dash (24.72). Giada Garrity, freshman, was ninth in the 400 dash (59.01) after going 58.57 in prelims. Liang was 10th in the 100 prelims (12.65), missing finals by one slot.
The top nine score points. The boys 4x100 team placed 10th (42.98). Eliah McCormick was 13th in high jump (6-2).
Jacquelyn Worden was 13th in shot put (35-8 3/4).
medalist, senior Easton Miles, with eighth in long jump (22-1). Bear state qualifiers in eight other events, between boys and girls, did not advance to finals.
BEARS LACROSSE
Both White Bear Lake lacrosse teams reached the Section 4 finals and had a championship doubleheader at Stillwater on June 3. The Stillwater boys (16-0) won 10-6 over the Bears (13-3). The Stillwater girls (15-1) prevailed 6-4 over the Bears (12-3). Kylee Lehman and Cayla Helmberger tallied two goals each. In the semifinals two nights earlier, the Bear girls edged Gentry Academy 14-12, led by Rylan West with five goals and Helmberger with three goals and five assists. The Bear boys beat Hilll-Murray 11-4, led by Wyatt Raleigh with five goals and Gavin Huot with three, and Reid Vickstrom with 10 saves.
BEARS BASEBALL
White Bear Lake’s season ended with a 5-2 loss to Woodbury in the sectional . Wyatt Reilly knocked in both Bear runs with a double. Bears starter Miles Oklobzija threw four scoreless innings before giving up four runs in the fifth. Brody Lashomb finished. The Bears were 2-2 in the section and 10-17 overall.
Bruce Strand
Zephyrs baseball back in state tourney
Defending state Class 3A champion Mahtomedi earned a return trip to the tournament defeating Hill-Murray 3-2 for the Section 4AAA championship June 4, after Hill-Murray forced a second game by clipping the Zephyrs 6-3 in nine innings. The Zephyrs (21-5), seeded No. 2 behind TotinoGrace, face Grand Rapids the state opener at 10 a.m. Thursday in Chaska.
In the 3-2 win, Isaac Iten and Sam Nasvik had RBI doubles. Tino Foster pitched six-plus innings (two runs, five
strikeouts) and Cody Loida finished. The Pioneers (20-6) won the first game on a three-run homer by Aeson Kiley in the ninth. Mahtomedi ace Connor Finn had a tough outing allowing eight walks and three runs in 2 1/3 innings. Alex Kurpis threw five scoreless innings before Kiley’s homer Finn, who has committed to Texas Tech University, is one of the eight 2026 Mr. Baseball finalists.
Bruce Strand
HEAD COACHES: District finds ‘outstanding fit’ for basketball program
passion for developing student-athletes, commitment to building relationships, and dedication to our community make her an exceptional leader for our program.”
As a Gustie, Sanders helped lead the team to a MIAC Championship during her senior season. In 2023, she etched her name into the record books by posting the highest three-point shooting percentage in NCAA Division
III and setting Gustavus' single-season record with 67 made three-pointers. Defensively, she recorded 75 steals, finishing just 10 shy of the program record. Throughout her collegiate career, Sanders earned numerous accolades, including Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) All-American Honorable Mention honors, selection to the D3hoops.com All-Region Team, two MIAC All-Conference honors, and Academic All-Conference recognition
in each year of eligibility.
Sanders began her coaching career during her junior year of college, serving as a head coach for multiple AAU basketball teams throughout the Twin Cities metro area. Most recently, she has spent the past three seasons as a varsity assistant coach with the White Bear Lake Girls Basketball program. In addition to coaching, Sanders serves as a registered nurse in the critical care float pool at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids.
“I am extremely honored to take over the head coaching role of a well-established and well-respected program,” Sanders said. “I am excited to build a culture of competitive yet supportive camaraderie among athletes, and I am energized at the chance to continue working with players, parents, and coaches within the White Bear Lake community to enhance confidence on and off the court.”
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Tomi Animasaun placed third in the 300H at state.
Jaxon Mitchell, 2nd in the 200
PHOTOS BY MSHSL/SMUG MUG CONTRIBUTED
Andrew Russell, high jump champion
Ericdarren Daafour, triple jump champion
Looking ahead with Lakeshore Players
BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER
The stage is set for summer at Lakeshore Players. Executive Director Megan Pence has the details on Lakeshore’s cool concerts, kids’ camps and seasonal Shakespeare.
Summer Concerts
On July 12, “Pet Sounds Live,” a Beach Boys show celebrating the band’s iconic album, will hit the stage. In addition to the complete “Pet Sounds” album, the show also
features many other Beach Boys classics like “Don’t Worry, Baby,” “I Get Around,” “Help Me, Rhonda,” and “Surfin’ USA.” “The music presentations have become a part of Lakeshore, and we’re really excited to continue offering these kinds of opportunities,” stated Pence.
Kids’ Camps
“We have summer camps that start the very first week school’s out, and those programs run through the entire summer,” Pence described.
Kids ages 4-7 can take part in
the Storybook Series throughout the month of July. Expert teaching artists will guide budding performers on a transformative journey, combining artistic expression with essential life skills. Storybook themes this July include “Gabby’s Dollhouse,” “Bluey,” “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” and “K-Pop Demon Hunters.”
Salute to Soldiers
Children in grades 3-6 have opportunities as well with the “Finding Nemo Kids Production Camp,” running June 8-26. This fullday camp focuses on both education and performance, culminating in a spectacular final show for family and friends. Those in grades 7-12 can also participate in this camp starting June 15, learning tech skills, like lights, sound and costumes.
Teens will be able to dig deeper into their craft with “The Actor’s Lab” from July 6-10, a weeklong intensive that covers scene work, monologue preparations and practical techniques. High school students will also have two opportunities in August to dive into a contemporary musical with weeklong exploration camps.
‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ Lakeshore’s 74th season will begin a month early this year with The Bard’s mischievous comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” performing Aug. 14-23. Lakeshore Players has not produced a Shakespearean play since 2014— before moving into the Hanifl PAC. “We just wanted to do something that was fun and light,” Pence remarked. “It’s a great way to dip our toes back into classical texts again.”
Pence believes Lakeshore’s summer offerings have something for all age groups and interests. “Having an arts center, having a community theater where people can gather, coming to a place that feels like home to them is so important,” Pence concluded. “We love all of these wonderful art institutions we have in the Twin Cities, but this is yours. Supporting that is incredibly important.”
All events are staged at the Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake. For tickets and more details, visit lakeshoreplayers.org.
Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation awards nearly $40,000 in classroom grants
The Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation (MAEF) recently awarded nearly $40,000 in classroom grants to support 15 Mahtomedi Public Schools teachers this spring. MAEF classroom grants aim to support innovation and spark curiosity in the classroom and provide professional development opportunities for teachers. The grants will enhance educational experiences for students of all ages across the Mahtomedi School District.
Hansen inspired Teacher Grants: Provide professional development enrichment opportunities to licensed Mahtomedi Public Schools staff.
Two middle school mental health staff members received a grant to attend the National Center for School Mental Health Annual Conference. There they learned the latest research, strategies and best practices for supporting students’ mental health and emotional wellbeing in schools by giving them access to current training and evidence-based practices. The grant is funded in partnership with the MAEF Oliver’s Fund for mental wellness.
Two fifth-grade teachers received a grant to attend the Get Your Teach On conference to
learn new strategies to enhance instruction within the fifthgrade Wit and Wisdom literacy curriculum. The training will share ways to make lessons more interactive, engaging and effective for students — providing practical ideas and classroom strategies that the teachers can implement immediately.
Three Mahtomedi High School Social Studies teachers received a grant to attend the Fueling Financial Education in the Classroom Conference. Participants will learn new teaching methods that make financial education more engaging and practical for students. Personal finance will become a required graduation course for all Mahtomedi students starting with the Class of 2028.
MAEF classroom grants Passport Club Geography Enrichment Program
A Wildwood Elementary teacher received a grant to pilot a Passport Geography Enrichment Club for elementary students. Kids will learn about the world by studying maps and countries, reading stories about different cultures and participating in cultural activities.
WipeBooks and correctable pens
Students in a high school English
BEAR TOWNSHIP BOARD NOTES
• The County Road H2 Trail Project will go forward without a sidewalk on the north side of the street, as the township board wanted to discourage extra street crossings at Lakeview when upgraded street crossing signage will be installed at Cottage Avenue. The project was awarded to Park Construction for $1.2 million.
Park Construction will also be handling the nearby road improvements, which should make project coordination a bit easier. Board Supervisor Beth Artner voted against the project, saying she has not heard much positive support in the community, and concerned that the township will not receive the best “bang for its buck”
classroom will benefit from this grant for reusable notebooks and writing surfaces that allows students to write on, erase and reuse. Students can use them to brainstorm ideas, outline essays, create graphic organizers and mind maps and upload their work into Google Drive. They are also environmentally-friendly.
Whiteboard desks and chairs
This grant provides funding to purchase whiteboard desks for a high school math classroom to create a more collaborative and interactive learning environment. Whiteboard desks will allow students to work together directly on their desks — allowing students to share ideas more openly, solve problems together, easily erase and revise mistakes and participate more actively in class. Whiteboard desks help eliminate the stigma of being wrong in math.
Heart Rate Monitors, SMARTBoard and tablet
This grant provides funding to create a new eighth-grade Physical Education elective class focused on lifelong fitness, mental wellness and social-emotional learning. The heart rate monitors will allow students to track their exercise intensity and better understand how physical
with this project. The trail is a component of the township’s comprehensive plan, and will be funded from the park acquisition fund that is dedicated for rehabilitation of trails and land acquisition for public spaces. The project go-ahead passed the township board 2-1.
• The planned walking trail at the Park 35E development
activity affects their bodies and emotions, while the SMARTBoard would be used to display live heart rate data and support interactive lessons. This new course would emphasize personal fitness, mental health and stress management, goal setting and self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Interactive Health Technologies Spirit System
This grant provides funding for wearable heart rate monitor technology to support student mental health, emotional regulation and physical education learning for Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) support for students at Wildwood Elementary School. Some students struggle to recognize emotional stress before it escalates into behavioral issues. The heart rate monitors would help students become more aware of their emotions earlier and practice healthy coping skills before problems occur.
To learn more about MAEF, visit maefgives.org.
Mahtomedi Area Educational Foundation
located near the intersection of County H2 and Centerville Road will be slightly rerouted after the town board approved an amendment to its agreement with the developer, WBT Holdings.
• White Bear Township awarded the sale of $4.6 million in Improvement & Utility Revenue Bonds to Piper Sandler Companies.
These bonds will fund ongoing utility work within the township. The township has a S&P bond rating of AA.
The White Bear Township Board next meets at 7 p.m. Monday, June 15 at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road.
Jackie Bussjaeger
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES
as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath. Dated: February 18, 2026 Signed: Koobmeej Vang Published two times in the White Bear Press on June 10 and 17, 2026. WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE NO. 105 AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING & ENACTING A NEW CODE FOR WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP, MINNESOTA; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF CERTAIN ORDINANCES NOT INCLUDED THEREIN; PROVIDING A PENALTY FOR THE VIOLATION THEREOF; PROVIDING FOR THE MANNER OF AMENDING SUCH CODE
THE TOWN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE TOWN OF WHITE BEAR HEREBY ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. The Code entitled “Code of Ordinances of White Bear Township, Minnesota,” published by CivicPlus, LLC is adopted.
SECTION 2. All ordinances of a general and permanent nature enacted on or before August 18, 2025, and not included in the Code or recognized and continued in force by reference therein, are repealed.
hereof that amend or refer to ordinances that have been codified in the Code shall be construed as if they amend or refer to like provisions of the Code.
SECTION 7. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after its passage and publication. Passed by the Town Board of Supervisors of the Town of White Bear, Ramsey County, Minnesota, this 1st day of June, 2026.
APPROVED: ED M. PRUDHON, Chair
ATTEST: PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Board of Supervisors: ED M. PRUDHON, Chair
STEVEN A. RUZEK, Supervisor BETH ARTNER, Supervisor Published one time in the White Bear Press on June 10, 2026.
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP NOTICE FOR APPLICATIONS TO SERVE ON THE 2050 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE STEERING COMMITTEE FOR TOWN OF WHITE BEAR, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
IS HEREBY GIVEN, the
CERTIFICATE OF AMENDED ASSUMED NAME
Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes, the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting 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: Koobmeej Vang-Photos & Videos
2. The address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1438 Mayre St., St. Paul, MN 55117
3. The name and address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name. (Only one signature is required by law.) Note: if the business owner is a corporation, you must list the legal corporate name and the legal Registered Office of the corporation. Koobmeej Vang 1438 Mayre St., St. Paul, MN 55117
4. This certificate is an amendment of
SECTION 3. The repeal provided for in section 2 hereof shall not be construed to revive any ordinance or part thereof that has been repealed by a subsequent ordinance that is repealed by this ordinance.
SECTION 4. Unless another penalty or forfeiture is expressly provided, every person convicted of a violation of any provision of the Code or any ordinance, rule or regulation adopted or issued in pursuance thereof shall be subject to a penalty up to and including the maximum permitted or required by state law. The penalty provided by this section, unless another penalty is expressly provided, shall apply to the amendment of any Code section, whether or not such penalty is reenacted in the amendatory ordinance. In addition to the penalty prescribed above, the township may pursue other remedies such as abatement of nuisances, injunctive relief and revocation of licenses or permits.
SECTION 5. Additions or amendments to the Code when passed in such form as to indicate the intention to make the same as part of the Code shall be deemed to be incorporated in the Code, so that reference to the Code includes the additions and amendments.
SECTION 6. Ordinances adopted after the date specified in section 2
WHITE
New tees better greens: A look inside Manitou Ridge’s renovation
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Now that renovations are nearing completion, Manitou Ridge Golf Course hopes to attract a wider variety of golfers.
The $3.5 million upgrade modernized the 98-year-old golf course.
Improvements include a new irrigation system, refined bunkers, forward tees and cart paths.
“It’s made a huge difference to this place. It’s been years coming and now we get to show it off (at the Community Classic),” said Mark Foley, PGA professional at Manitou Ridge.
Liz Flinn, Ramsey County director of park operations, says planning for the project began three years ago, but construction kicked off last August and wrapped up in November. Some landscaping remains, but that will likely be complete by the end of June, provided the weather cooperates.
About 10 years ago, Ramsey County
IF YOU GO
The Community Classic
When: Saturday, June 27. Golf tips with PGA instructors at 1:30 p.m.; 2:15 p.m. featured speakers; 3 p.m. shotgun start for ninehole tournament; 3:30 p.m. putting contest.
Where: Manitou Ridge Golf Course, 3200 McKnight Road N., White Bear Lake
Details: The nine-hole tournament will celebrate the renovation and reopening of Manitou Ridge Golf Course. The community event will bring golfers of all ages and skill levels together for an afternoon of friendly competition and connection on the course. Attendees will experience the upgrades like the new forward tees and help kick off the next chapter for the hometown course. Registration is limited to 100 golfers.
Contact: To register, visit RameyCountyMN.gov/ CommunityClassic
conducted a user survey that revealed Manitou Ridge played too long for the average golfer.
“For us to keep up with what the consumer wants, we really wanted to widen our appeal to all kinds of golfers. We really listened to that feedback,” Flinn said. For that reason, 14 forward tees were installed.
According to the United States Golf Association (USGA), forward tees, historically known as the “ladies tee,” are the closest set of tee boxes to the green on a golf course. They are designed for beginners, juniors and golfers with slower swing speeds to speed up play and lower scores.
“This is an old course … it was designed around men,” Foley explained. “Modern golf is not like that. You have to put these tees in to accommodate all the users. The target market is not just heavy hitters.”
On average, the forward tees make it 50 yards shorter to the hole.
The bunkers on the course were also improved. Some bunkers were removed, and some were redone for better playability. Foley explained that by eliminating the bunkers that were “out of play,” less maintenance will be required.
“A lot of them were just scenic,” Foley said. “The square footage is about a third of what it was before, so aesthetically it is 100 times better and plays way better.”
Four new green complexes were also installed. Prior to the project, many of the course’s greens were very slanted.
WHITE BEAR LAKE CONSERVATION DISTRICT NOTES
• The conservation district will once again make a donation of $100 to the city for the Fourth of July fireworks.
• An application and variance from Patel-McGauley for a non-commercial multi-user dock permit at 213 Park Ave, Mahtomedi has been approved. Board Director Christopher Churchill said the request is the same as last year’s request to allow for five slips. The variance will permit an extra 70 feet into the Ordinary High Water Level (OHWL).
“I live right down the street … and I didn’t see any problems. It’s a good layout and a good solve for them in my opinion,” Churchill said.
The board has developed a watercraft rental checklist, which it plans to post on the district’s website, social media and publish in a future edition of The Laker. Vice Chair Meredith Walburg said the list compiles all the statutes and regulations from the county, state, DNR and conservation district “in an effort to make boat rentals safer on WBL.”
• A timeline is now in place for the Lake Management Plan. This fall the board will appoint members to a steering committee to develop the project scope, goals and objectives. The committee will make a recommendation for a firm to the full board in January 2028. The final report is expected to be complete and presented to the board in April or May 2029.
• The district continues to work with E.G. Rud and Sons on the replacement of the Commercial Bay survey markers to make the markers more “permanent” and “visible,” Chair Bryan DeSmet said. After a scope of work is formalized, it will be brought back to the board for approval at a future
The course’s cart paths were redone. The asphalt was torn out and replaced and some of the paths were re-routed for efficiency and to ensure safety. Temporary sediment control along the paths will eventually be removed.
“The greens here, like everything else, were very old… In modern golf, green speeds are faster, and it just doesn’t work,” Foley explained. “It is a playability issue. The (slanted greens) are a nightmare and slow play down.”
The course’s cart paths were also redone. The asphalt was torn out and replaced and some of the paths were re-routed for efficiency and to ensure safety.
“We're trying to create a better experience for the golfer long term ...
meeting. E.G. Rud and Sons is the same contractor who installed the initial markers in 2023.
• The district has received nearly 40 applications for the administrator position. Walburg shared that six candidates were selected for the interview process. The board gave the hiring subcommittee the authority to make an offer to the candidate it deems the best fit. The subcommittee consists of Walburg, Mike Parenteau, Diane Longville, Shelley Dropkin and Shari Salzman-Hankins. The district plans to hire someone by July 1 so they can work alongside current Administrator Cheri Howe, who plans to retire soon.
• This summer the district will work with Lakes Management to treat Eurasian watermilfoil. Parenteau noted that the price represents a $7 per acre increase for both chemicals (Liquid 2,4-D and Triclopyr). On average, the district treats about 30 to 35 acres each season. The district budgeted $32,000 for 2026.
• The district, as it has for many years now, will partner with the University of Minnesota Phragmites Department for a Phragmites survey sometime in August. Parenteau said he will provide the pontoon, and the U of M will provide the technician free of charge. “It’s a real partnership and it works out really well,” he said.
• The district has sent out a letter to each community regarding Swimmer’s Itch. Each year, communities can be reimbursed from the district for the first treatment. Typically, Memorial Beach, Bellaire Beach and East Shore Beach are treated.
• The board has approved a request for a private fireworks show on Manitou Island at 10 p.m., Sunday,
You lead these paths into the wrong area, you are going to be in the hitting zone. It seems boring, but it is super important,” Foley said.
An improvement that might not be as forward facing, is the replacement of the 50-year-old irrigation system.
“It's a big deal. It's going to alleviate a lot of over-watering,” Foley explained. “Water is a big deal. It is our lifeline, so we have to be really careful with it.” He added that they also turned several areas of the 140-acre golf course into nature areas that will not require mowing or sprinkling.
The new system allows a single sprinkler head to be turned on where needed, versus having to water an entire zone. The sprinklers also rotate better, so as not to water the asphalt.
“One of the things the county feels is very important at all of the golf courses is to be a good environmental stewards … Being good stewards of the environment is just as important as putting out a fun product,” Flinn said.
Foley projects that the new irrigation system, which is expected to last approximately 75 years, will allow the golf course to use between 30 to 35% less water.
The hope is that newly improved playability of the course will attract new golfers.
“The hope is that we can attract a different customer base. We were basically stuck in the guy business,” Foley said. “All of our leagues were male-dominated and that’s not true anymore.” Foley said over the last two years, Manitou Ridge’s leagues have grown by about 35%. He attributes the growth to the excitement generated by the planned investments into the course.
To celebrate the renovation and updates, Manitou Ridge Golf Course is inviting golfers and non-golfers of all ages and abilities to come experience the course via a nine-hole tournament on June 27.
“Our core customers … they know what we are doing. We are trying to capture a completely different audience that never sees this place,” Foley said. “This (tournament) isn’t for blood, it is for fun.”
Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.
June 20. The approval is contingent on payment of the application fee.
• The board has approved its 2027 budget, which includes community assessments. Here is the breakdown:
- Birchwood will be assessed $999.83, or $1.14 per person.
- Dellwood will be assessed $2,519.56, or $2.48 per person.
- Mahtomedi will be assessed $7,398.70, or $0.88 per person
- White Bear Lake will be assessed $18,916.69, or $0.79 per person.
- White Bear Township will be assessed $10,158.22, or $0.93 per person.
Parenteau explained that the percentage of the conservation district budget that each city pays is as follows for 2027: Birchwood 2.5%; Dellwood 6.3%; Mahtomedi 18.5%; White Bear Lake 47.3%; And White Bear Township 25.4%.
DeSmet pointed out that the 2027 budget is actually less than the 2026 budget, which means the district needs less money from the communities. Parenteau explained that the driving factor behind that is mostly due to the district generating more revenue, or income, from interest.
“I’m amazed that we are less. That is great,” Churchill said.
The next White Bear Lake Conservation District meeting will be at 7 p.m., Tuesday, June 16 at White Bear Lake City Hall.
Shannon Granholm
PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
The $3.5 million upgrade at Manitou Ridge modernized the 98-year-old course. Improvements include a new irrigation system, refined bunkers, forward tees and cart paths.