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SENIOR HEALTH FAIR: Will showcase health and wellness in north metro PAGE 11
25 years later, memories remain
State Fair surprise: Local veteran receives new ride
BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Voters checking their ballots thoroughly during the Nov. 3 general election will notice an item at the very bottom on the backside of their ballots. That item will ask the following question: “Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to increase the funding going to all school districts from the permanent school fund, which is a fund that supports school districts without raising individual income or property taxes, effective July 1, 2027?” Voters will be asked to fill in the “Yes” oval or the “No” oval. Not filling in either oval will be a vote for the “No” column. Here is a little history to help voters make up their minds on this important question before they head to the polls. When Minnesota became a state in 1858, the federal government granted millions of acres of land to the State of Minnesota for the use of its public schools. A fund called the Permanent School Fund (PSF) was created from the proceeds of land sales and leases, which were then invested and reinvested. This fund shares its earnings twice a year with every public school district and charter school in the state, based on student enrollment. Since 1858, the fund has been managed by members of the State Board of Investment, who invest the money in stocks and bonds to make the fund grow in value. Wise investment will make both the principal and the dividends received by schools become more valuable. Over time, careful management has helped the PSF grow to more than $2.3 billion in 2025. In 2010, the PSF was $675 million. The membership of the State Board of Investment, as specified in the Minnesota Constitution Article XI, is SEE PERMANENT SCHOOL FUND, PAGE 11
CONTRIBUTED
Former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Blake Griebenow, a White Bear Lake resident and Mahtomedi High School graduate, is the proud owner of a new Bronco Sport.
BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR
Still learning how to tell my 9/11 story BY BROOKE HENNESSEY SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
Twenty-five years ago, Brooke Hennessey was a college student living just blocks from the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan when the events of Sept. 11, 2001, changed her life forever. Today, Hennessey calls Brooke Hennessey White Bear Lake graduated home, where she from NYU in lives with her May 2003. husband, Joe, and their two sons. A graduate of New York University, Hennessey built a career in the wine industry and
has worked as a professional voice-over actor for more than a decade. But her most enduring connection to that September morning is a story she has carried with her for 25 years. It’s a story of survival, survivor’s guilt, resilience and, ultimately, healing. As the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, Hennessey reflects on what it meant to live through that day as a young New Yorker and what it means now to tell that story to a new generation.
My story
The smell of banana bread. That’s what my childhood smelled like. I grew up in a
Former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Blake Griebenow was invited to attend the Minnesota State Fair for Military Appreciation Day. He thought he was going to be recognized for his service, but little did he know he would not only be honored for his years of service, but he would get to drive home in a 2026 Bronco Sport. “I thought I was just going to go on stage, they say something about my service, I get a clap, I maybe say something and that was that. I get a day off, maybe some fair food,” Griebenow said. The White Bear Lake resident was invited up onto the stage and after talking about his service, Apple Autos told him they had some “additional surprises” for him. They pointed to a Bronco decked out with messages of support and thanks, like “Thank you for your service”; “I am me because of you”; and “God bless.” “I was like, wait, you are giving me this vehicle? I was completely flabbergasted,” Griebenow recalled. Griebenow grew up in Dellwood and graduated from Mahtomedi High School in 2010. He joined the Army in 2011 because he wanted feel like he was truly a part of a community. “I had a rough upbringing, so I never felt like I really had a family. I saw the military, and I thought, ‘Wow, those
SEE BROOKE HENNESSEY, PAGE 6
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SEE STATE FAIR SURPRISE, PAGE 12
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Where: Lakewood Worship CenterSalvation Army, 2080 Woodlyn Ave., Maplewood Details: Community welcome to attend a free concert with freewill offering. Contact: 651-226-4289
SUMMER SIGNINGS
When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Sept. 11 Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake Details: Glenn Hayen will sign his comedic coming-of-age novel “Paperboy” and Glynae L. Deschene will sign “Journey to the Sunset”, her debut historical novel reimagining Biblical events. Contact: lakecountrybooksellers.com
TRIAD SENIOR PICNIC
When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16 Where: Podvin Park, 1700 9th St., White Bear Lake Details: Free picnic followed by a short program on senior safety. Meet city officials, law enforecement and department staff. RSVP appreciated by not required. Contact: triadwbl@gmail.com
MUSIC AT MANITOU RIDGE
When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Where: Manitou Ridge Golf Course, 3200 McKnight Rd. N., White Bear Lake Details: Live musical poerformance by Bruce Burniece. Contact: 651-777-2987
TASTE OF WHITE BEAR LAKE
When: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 Where: Pine Tree Apple Orchard, 450 Apple Orchard Road Details: Sample food and beverages from local establishments while supporting White Bear Lake Rotary programs. Music, a silent auction, games and more. Contact: tasteofwhitebearlake.com
CORNFEST 2026
When: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 Where: St. Jude of the Lake Church and School, 700 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi Details: Annual community event featuring sweet corn and food, beverages, live music, kids activities, Bingo, bake sales and raffles. Contact: stjudeofthelake.org/ cornfest-2026
2.2 MILES: VETERAN SUICIDE AWARENESS WALK When: 2:22 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12
BALD EAGLE LAKE ART CRAWL When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 Where: Various locations around Bald Eagle Lake Details: A one-of-a-kind, outdoor art experience featuring 100 local artists, crafters, and musicians spread across nine host sites around Bald Eagle Lake. Free trolley rides between sites. Food trucks, and interactive art expereinces for all ages. Contact: www.belarts.org Where: White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782, 4496 Lake Ave. S. Details: Walk with members of the VFW and Auxiliary to Matoska Park and back in remembrance of veterans who die each day by suicide. Open to all.
MUSIC ON THE LAWN
When: 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13 Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, Details: Free concert featuring Good News Big Band and WBLUMC’s own New Crossings drummer, Andy Artz and music director Stephen Anderson. Contact: wblumc.org
GARMS FAMILY IN CONCERT
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 13
When: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 Where: Ramsey County Library, 2180 Hamline Ave. N. Details: Shop huge selection of paperbacks, hardcovers, audiobooks, CDs and DVDs with proceeds supporting Ramsey County libraries. Contact: rclfriends.org/booksales
“THE SEVEN” WOMEN OF ENDURING VISION COMMUNITY RECEPTION
When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 Where: White Bear Center for the Arts, 4971 Long Ave. Details: Meet the artists at 7 p.m. and view the new exhibit featuringpainting, pottery, sculpture, textile and installation. Exhibit runs Sept. 12 through Oct. 30. Contact: whitebeararts.org
AGING IN THE COMMUNITY
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 Where: Sunrise Park District Senior Center 2399 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake Details: Educational event focused on how seniors can safely and comfortably remain in their own homes will give atendees a better understanding of how home care provides personal and daily living assistance, while home health delivers skilled medical services under a physician’s order. Call to register. Contact: 651-653-3121
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invited to fill a bag of items for a small fee. Parking will be available off of Second Street.
Rally Day announced at St. Stephen
Bring neighbors, family and friends on Sunday, Sept. 13, for food, entertainment and fun for the whole family at
St. Stephen’s Rally Day and community picnic. The festivities begin with a worship service from 9:30-10:30 a.m. followed by a community picnic/ brunch with live music from 10:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is also an opportunity to learn about programs and register children for Preconfirmation (grades 4 through 6), Confirmation (grades
7 through 9), Youth Group (grades 7 through 12), Sunday and/or Wednesday Church School (preschool through grade 5). St. Stephen Lutheran Church is located at 1965 East County Road E, White Bear Lake. For more information, contact 651777-1107 or StStephenWBL.org
4717 Clark Avenue, White Bear Lake 2130 2nd Street 651-762-8040 White Bear Lake 651-762-8040 2024
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St. John in the Wilderness, located at 2175 First St., White Bear Lake, will host its annual fall rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 19. On Saturday, the public is
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CHURCH BRIEFS St. John in the Wilderness hosts rummage sale
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RAMSEY COUNTY LIBRARY FRIENDS USED BOOK SALE
26TH ANNUAL BEAR WATER RUN
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 12 Where: Ramsey County Beach, 5050 Lake Avenue, White Bear Lake Details: Ten-mile and 20-mile courses available for runners circling White Bear Lake in this USATF certified event. Proceeds go to the Lions Club’s community efforts. All finishers get a race medal. Contact: whitebearlions.org/bear-waterrun
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OPINION www.presspubs.com
SEPTEMBER 2, 2026
Where were you?
W
e asked, and you delivered. In honor of the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, we invited our readers to share where they were and what they were doing that day when tragedy struck our country. While the news team was in a news meeting, we were brainstorming ideas for what we could do to recognize the milestone anniversary, and we kept coming back to the fact that 9/11 was one of those moments when everyShannon’s one knows exactly what they doing when it happened. Shenanigans were I was in the fourth grade. Shannon I remember being at the bus stop and not having any idea Granholm of what happened until we arrived at school. Students started getting to their classrooms, and every TV screen and projector was turned to the news. My classmates and I didn’t do much that day, other than stare at the screens in disbelief, a bit too young to realize the gravity of what had just happened. I remember coming home from school, and my family and I continued to watch the news all evening. Normally, I have a horrible memory. It’s not uncommon for someone to ask me if I’ve seen a particular show or movie, and even if I have seen it, I don’t necessarily remember it. Even though I was pretty young at the time, I do still remember what I was doing and where I was on Sept. 11, 2001. We received so many notes from our readers about what they were doing that day. Some were traveling at the time; some knew a person who lived near the attacks; and some lived the horrors firsthand. When I first read White Bear Lake resident Brooke Hennessey’s story, I had goosebumps over every inch of my body. Twenty-five years ago, she was a college student living blocks away from the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. She relives the memory and describes the scene so well I can picture every detail she described. She asks, “Have you ever gone through something that changed you? Something that split your life in two?” Although I can’t relate to her experience on 9/11, I have experienced an event that I think of that way — the loss of my dad in my early 20s. When I think back about my life, I think about before he died and after he died. Brooke also talks about her experience with post-traumatic stress disorder, specifically survivor’s remorse. A line that really stuck with me was the “quiet version” of PTSD: “The version where you get up every day, go to work, smile and carry a weight no one can see.” I also loved that she pointed out that pain is not a competition and you don’t have to compare it. Brooke’s story is one of resilience, and I know it will inspire others who are going through tough situations. Thank you to Brooke and all our readers who took the time to share their hearts with us and open up about a day that might still be hard to talk about, even all of these years later. We appreciate you, and you have made a difference in the lives of everyone reading this week’s issue. Shannon is the managing editor at Press Publications.
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From a national tragedy came a nation united BY TIM STOUT MAHTOMEDI RESIDENT
I
t is hard to believe it’s been a quarter of a century since the defining moment of the 21st century forever changed our nation. The terrorist attack on our country on September 11, 2001, is a day that still evokes discussions of ‘where were you’ and ‘when did you first see’ those indelible images of planes crashing into buildings. I watched it unfold from my office in the White House. Seeing the smoke from the Pentagon on fire and then being told to run for our lives by the Secret Service as we watched fighter jets circle the nation’s capitol, ready to shoot down any hijacked airplanes, was surreal. These images are seared into my memory for the rest of my life, snapshots from that clear
blue September morning that have not been faded by time. What strikes me most as I reflect back on those defining moments is how different Washington DC seems today. When our country most needed leaders from both parties to rise to the occasion, they did. For a brief moment in history surrounding the days and weeks after September 11th, the Government, our Government, worked as it was intended. Our elected leaders were not in complete agreement, different points of views were heard but there was a purpose of mission for us to rise up to meet the moment in which history would record how we would be judged for generations to come. 25 years ago this week was a time of tragedy and heartache, but it was also a time of national pride in how we all collectively rose to meet the challenge of our times. I was there. I witnessed it.
Work in complete silence BY MIKE ERICHSON RETIRED HUGO CITY ADMINISTRATOR
I
remember the day like it was yesterday. I had been with the city of Hugo for a year. I was the new kid in town. There had been a lot of activity going on from development proposals to planning a new city hall to adding staff, so I was very busy. I was invited that day to attend the monthly meeting of the White Bear Lake Chamber of Commerce board of directors, which was held at the Brotherhood of Labors building in Lino Lakes right next to the border of Hugo on CSAH 8. The start time was 7:30 a.m. It was a Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001. I had on my dress shirt and tie with my suit coat and filled with lots of enthusiasm because Hugo was going places. I was excited to meet the business owners because I had lots to say. I delivered a great message and met many nice people like Randy Fulton and others. I headed back to city hall after I spoke. Now this was the old cinderblock city hall not the new one. It was very modest to say the
least, 1950s vintage. We had the open-air council chamber room which always had a television monitor on a cart in the middle of the room. It was always on, always. We had it on to the watch the news. We had a very small staff back then. I walked into city hall and saw them gathered around the television. I made a quick comment, and they said ‘shhhhhhhh.’ We all watched together the first Trade Tower under fire. I was stunned. We stood there in silence, mesmerized. Then, suddenly the airplane flew into the second tower. Both were now towering infernos. We continued to watch and then suddenly the first one collapsed and then the second. We watched in absolute horror. How could this have happened? Who was responsible? How many people died? It was now 9 a.m. and time for our weekly staff meeting. I announced it was time to gather … Our City Clerk MaryAnn Creager, our senior staffer, said ‘No. We are not going to have a staff meeting today.’ I respected her decision and said ‘okay.’ We were all very somber and returned to our offices to work in complete silence until the next day.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CONTINUED responder equipment and the hiring of additional staff. Vadnais Heights received approximately $500K that was used for fire equipment and over $13 million went to Washington and Ramsey counties, which provide sheriff services to our communities. Sen. Gustafson listened to the concerns of local leaders and residents who had as their priority supporting our first responders so they can do their jobs to keep our communities sate while helping control costs. Sen. Gustafson's priorities in her next term are to continue to focus on affordability. She will chip away at what can be done to help with the cost of childcare and healthcare. These are the costs that take up most of our budgets. It is refreshing to be represented by someone who works on solutions instead of just whining and pointing fingers. She has my vote come this November.
PAID LETTER Keep up the good work
With all the press associated with the White Bear Lake School District and particularly the School Board, I would like to share my experience and appreciation of the district. I am a mother to two 15-year-old girls who have been in this district since ECFE. I was fortunate enough to stay at home with our girls. I was incredibly grateful for the early childhood opportunities at Normandy Park. The preschool and staff at Tamarack Nature Center was an amazing experience for all. They moved on to Oneka, and we loved every teacher and both principals we were fortunate enough to work with. Central Middle School opened so many new opportunities, not just to make new friends but to broaden their ways of thinking. Moving to the new combined high school as a result of the bond passed a few years ago has brought back the traditional high school experience with upper classmen, which I think is important. The number and variety of classes offered is impressive and again provided a broad selection of interests. Not everyone is learning about other cultures, languages and histories at home. Our children’s future career choices look significantly different from ours. I believe White Bear does a tremendous job of preparing our kids for a more diverse and talented workforce in the ever-changing technology and science. I have had the occasion to have regular contact with teachers and administration at all of the schools our children have attended. I have always been listened to and had my questions/ concerns addressed. No one is perfect, and that is another thing I love about White Bear and particularly our School Board. They are willing to try new things and make changes when necessary. I have found the School Board to be transparent in how they operate and appreciate that they follow the policies in place and provide a plethora of information at each meeting that can be accessed online at later dates. Everyone is busy, and it’s hard to attend meetings sometimes. Keep up the good work! You are appreciated!
Shelley Jokinen Vadnais Heights
PAID LETTER Look at big picture Vadnais Heights taxpayers have seen sharp property tax increases over the past few years. While these increases occurred under Mayor Mike Krachmer and Council members Katherine Doll Kanne and Kelly Jozwowski, we need to look at the bigger picture to understand why they were necessary. City budget documents and meeting minutes show that former leaders — including Greg Urban, Craig Johnson, and Patricia Youker — voted to delay repairs and investments to keep tax increases artificially low despite rising operating costs. They did not fully cover critical needs like repairing roads, water mains and sewers, even as operating costs rose. This approach is illustrated in the December 6, 2017, City Council workshop minutes and the 2018 budget. The 3.4% levy increase for 2018 was celebrated as the lowest in Ramsey County. However, it was kept that low by draining $627,000 from reserve funds. At the time, the city manager warned that relying on reserves this way could lead to major tax hikes later to pay for delayed repairs. By 2022, the city council members who made these decisions were out of office, basic infrastructure repairs could no longer be put off, and depleted reserves could no longer fully cover them. That forced the new mayor and council to enact large levy increases to catch up with the city's unmet needs. While past leaders may criticize recent levy increases, the budget record shows their past decisions created this shortfall. Today’s city leaders are focused on long-term budget stability. By addressing past shortfalls directly, they have put the city on a sustainable track and built reliable budgets that better protect taxpayers from future spikes. Levy increases are already slowing down; the 2026 increase was nearly
Celeste Wicks Knipping Hugo
PAID LETTER Affordability is candidate's priority One of the largest portions of our local cities’ budgets is for public safety. Any opportunity for our elected officials to help residents offset this cost is appreciated and important in city planning. We are all dealing with affordability issues these days. We are fortunate that Senator Heather Gustafson sponsored a public safety bill during her first term, a one-of-a-kind, which sent funding directly to our cities to use as they know best. White Bear Lake received over $1 million that was used for first
half the size of the 2025 increase. They are also working to reduce and eventually eliminate special assessments — the out-of-pocket bills homeowners pay for street repairs directly serving their property. We’re on the way out of the budget hole past councils created, and this is no time to go back to that kind of short-term thinking. Mayor Mike Krachmer and Council members Katherine Doll Kanne and Kelly Jozwowski deserve your support. Peter Helgeson Vadnais Heights
School board made right decision As a recent WBLAHS graduate, I would like to share my support for the censure of Dan Skaar under School Board Policy 215. From a former student’s point of view, Skaar does not seem to understand the work and resources it takes to run a district and makes it everyone else’s issue. Many of Skaar’s comments give the impression that the district and its faculty do not care about students’ well-being or education. As a recent alumnus, I can say wholeheartedly that he could not be more wrong. The communities that this district and its staff foster are places where students learn to support each other, find purpose and prepare for their future. I believe that we should have transparency and accountability in our district. But accountability for what? It is ridiculous to villainize our district for providing students with resources they deserve and for spending the average amount of money a district our size needs to function properly. As for transparency, all district expenses are listed on the district website for anyone to see. Truly, these seem to be nonissues. Our elected officials should be role models for students, representing our ROAR core values of Relationships, Ownership, Awareness, and Responsibility, for which Skaar consistently fails to be a positive role model. Skaar has, on multiple occasions, violated several rules that are clearly outlined in School Board Policy 215, Section 3 — school board member code of conduct — for which he has rightly received a censure as outlined by Section 4 of that same policy. This action has caused a divide in the community. However, what example would be set for students if we let an elected official get away with breaking the rules, coming unprepared, disrupting meetings and dividing our community? Would we be telling students that they can show up to class unprepared? Break rules? Disrupt lessons? These rules are expected of students, just as they are expected of School Board members. When you break the rules, you set a poor example for students, and there are repercussions. Lucas Ackerman Vadnais Heights
White Bear Lake Area Church Directory Sunday Worship Join us on Sunday:
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.
847494
864687
Children 5 years to 5th grade may participate in Children’s Church during worship.
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
2425 White Bear Avenue • Maplewood • 651-777-5200
rlcstpaul
859436
redeeminglovechurch.com
10:15 am in-person Worship Livestreaming on and Live-streaming on YouTube: YouTube:FPCWBL FPCWBL
Christ the Servant Lutheran Church 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 www.cslcvh.org / 651-429-6595
online service information.
863649
Saturday 4:00pm Sunday 9:00am Sunday soCOOL ~ for ALL ages Education Hour Sunday 10:15am
2480 South Shore Blvd | WBL | sstwbl.org
Christ the King Lutheran Church 1660 Birch Lake Ave., White Bear Lake (Just off Hwy 96 & Otter Lake Road)
9 am worship in person & online at www.ctkwbl.org.
office@ctkwbl.org | 651-429-4828
785863 764532 865130
church web sites for service times and
Church: 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake Parish Life Center/School: 4690 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake
LUTHERAN CHURCH
831310
Contact your local church or check
Masses: Saturday - 5:00 PM Livestream Sunday - 9:00 & 11:00 AM
Join our Community!
864690
Sout h Shor e Tr inity
651-429-7771 Opt 1 www.stmarys-wbl.org
Service times are subject to change.
862244
831312
836604
All Are Welcome!
Sunday 9:00 AM worship in person/on-line Adult Bible Study 8:00 AM
6 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
COPS&COURTS www.presspubs.com
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • Theft of wood planks was reported in the 2200 block of Gardenette Drive N. Aug. 26. • One driver was cited for failure to yield in a three-car accident near Highway 96 and Hedman Way Aug. 26. Two people were transported for suspected injuries. • Officers responded to a disorderly person near the intersection of Highway 96 and White Bear Parkway Aug. 26. • Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 2100 block of Southwood Drive Aug. 26. • Officers responded to a verbal dispute in the 4500 block of Bald Eagle Avenue Aug. 26. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4800 block of Banning Avenue Aug. 27. • A disturbance was reported in the 4800 block of Division Avenue Aug. 27. • Officers responded to disorderly conduct over politics in the 4700 block of Washington Square Aug. 27. • Officers responded to a report of an assault in the 4900 block of Highway 61 Aug. 27. • Harassment was reported in the 1700 block of Eugene Street Aug. 28.
• Theft of political signs was reported in the 2200 block of Ninth Street Aug. 28. • A White Bear Lake man was arrested on two outstanding warrants on Monn Avenue Aug. 28. • Officers responded to a noise complaint near the intersection of White Bear Parkway and Birch Lake Blvd. N. Aug. 28. • A juvenile reported missing Aug. 28 in the 3600 block of Sun Terrace was later reunited with family. • Officers responded to a garage burglary Aug. 29 in the 3600 block of Glen Oaks Avenue where a juvenile male is suspected of stealing an e-bike, ditching it down the block and then fleeing on foot. The suspect was not located. • A Roseville man was cited for misdemeanor fifth-degree assault in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road Aug. 29. • Harassment was reported in the 2100 block of Third Street Aug. 29. • Officers responded to disputes Aug. 29 in the 3600 block of East County Line Road and the 3500 block of Century Avenue. • License plates were stolen in the 3700 block of Howard Lane Aug. 29. • Officers responded to a disorderly person in the 2100 block of Fourth Street Aug. 30.
WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS The Washington County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood Village, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie:
Dellwood
• A Dellwood Curve resident on Aug. 3 reported his ex-girlfriend’s father for threatening him. On Aug. 5 the complainant reported continued harassment, and deputies gave advice on how to obtain a harassment restraining order.
Grant
• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Aug. 2 responded to a report of a large amount of old and new graffiti in the Gateway Trail tunnel at 75th Street N. and Jamaca Avenue N. • A phone was reported stolen Aug. 2 from the 9000 block of 75th Street N. The complaint was turned over to another law enforcement agency. • A bag filled with miscellaneous items was reported found at Mahtomedi High School in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. on Aug. 3. If no one claims the bag after 90 days, it will be entered into evidence and destroyed. • The Golden Valley Police Department on Aug. 4 reported a theft from Mahtomedi High School. • Juveniles on a golf cart were reported for throwing fireworks at vehicles on Lake Elmo Avenue N. and 75th Street N. Deputies contacted the juveniles at their home but didn’t find any fireworks. • A resident in the 7000 block of Kimbro Avenue N. on Aug. 7 reported watches stolen from her mail. • A motorist was both cited and arrested on Aug. 8 at 75th Street N. and Jocelyn Road N., following a traffic stop.
Mahtomedi
• Residents in the 1000 block of Echo Lake Court called to have a guest trespassed at 5:14 a.m. Aug. 2. • Deputies went 3 for 3 seeing apartments and cars unlocked during the week of Aug. 2-5. They gave a juvenile locked out of an apartment on Wildwood Road a courtesy ride to get a key at 2:48 a.m. Aug. 2, along with the ride back home. On Aug. 5 deputies successfully unlocked two vehicles for their locked-out drivers, one on Stillwater Road, the other on East Avenue. • Deputies responding to a report of a homeless man sleeping in Katherine Abbott Park on Lincolntown Avenue early Aug. 2 found a woman sleeping there. The woman said she was OK
• Criminal sexual conduct was reported in the 3300 block of Glen Oaks Avenue Aug. 30. • Officers arrested a man on an outstanding warrant in the 1800 block of County Road F Aug. 30. • Officers responded to a verbal disturbance near the 4600 block of Highway 61 Aug. 30. • A civil problem was reported in the 3600 block of Kenny Lane Aug. 30. • Officers responded to a disturbance in the 1700 block of Florence Street Aug. 30. • Disorderly conduct was reported in the 1700 block of Cedar Avenue Aug. 31. • Criminal damage to property was reported in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue Aug. 31. • Officers assisted with a juvenile incident near Bald Eagle Avenue and Second Street Sept. 1. • An Eden Prairie man was arrested for a felony domestic assault no-contact order violation in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Sept. 1. • Officers mediated a child custody dispute in the 5000 block of Division Avenue Sept. 1. • Fraud was reported in the 4700 block of Highway 61 Sept. 1. • Officers responded to a report of a disorderly male yelling at people in the area of Highway 96 and Otter Lake Road Sept. 1.
RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
and was just sleeping for a little bit and planned to leave the area shortly. • Following a report of a suspicious vehicle in the 1000 block of Griffin Avenue at 11:25 p.m. Aug. 4, deputies found a vehicle with two occupants, who said they were sleeping in the car. Deputies advised the occupants they were impeding traffic and needed to move to a better location, which the two did without incident. • A Shamrock Way resident on Aug. 5 reported money stolen from his bank account via anATM machine by an unknown person. A Hyde Avenue resident on Aug. 6 reported he was missing cryptocurrency, after being prompted to install an update on his device. • At midnight Aug. 4, deputies were dispatched out to the apartment complex on Wildwood Road about a child crying in the hallway. The complainant said that something was going on and to send law enforcement out immediately. As the caller did not disclose what floor was involved and hung up on dispatch before answering any questions, deputies could not locate the source of the incident on any of the four floors. At 9:30 a.m. Aug. 6, deputies were again dispatched out to the apartment complex about a woman hearing voices on the second floor of the building. Again, deputies could not locate the caller and didn’t observe any emergency. • In the Case of the Car Kitten, a Wildwood Road resident on Aug. 6 dispatched deputies out to free a stuck kitten from her car. • Deputies cited a motorist for speeding on Hilton Trail and 70th Street Aug. 7. A second motorist was cited Aug. 8 on Wildwood Road for failure to produce proof of valid insurance, following a traffic stop for faulty rear license plates. • Suspicious screams for help Aug. 8 on Wildwood Road turned out to be a group of juveniles playing soccer; no one was in distress.
Pine Springs
• A motorist assist turned into a traffic stop that turned into an arrest at 1:47 a.m. Aug. 2 on Hilton Trail N. and 60th Street N. • Deputies arrested a motorist for DWI at 12:31 a.m. Aug. 7 on Highway 36, just east of Hilton Trail N. after pulling the vehicle over for speeding, expired registration and a brake light out.
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights and White Bear Township:
Vadnais Heights
• On Aug. 23 in the 800 block of East County Road E, a 61-year-old man from Aberdeen, SD, reported that his daughter’s credit card had been stolen and used at Walmart in Ramsey County. The matter is under investigation. • On Aug. 24 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies issued a theft citation to a 60-yearold woman from Hugo after she was caught attempting to leave Walmart without paying for merchandise. • On Aug. 25 in the 700 block of Greenhaven Drive, deputies went to the home where they knew a wanted man to be and arrested a 47-year-old man from Vadnais Heights for an open and active warrant for failure to comply with the conditions of his release. • On Aug. 26 in the 3400 block of Rice Street, deputies located a Chevrolet GMT-400 pickup truck parked horizontally across several parking spaces, its driver-side door ajar, but nobody around. There was also another vehicle — a confirmed stolen Chevrolet Malibu — nearby. The pickup’s owner was contacted and the vehicle was towed to the impound lot. The matter is under investigation. • On Aug. 26 at the intersection of Highway 96 E. and McMenemy St., deputies recovered a bag found by the side of the road by a bicyclist. The bag was placed in the Property Room for safekeeping until its owner is located. • On Aug. 27 in the 3500 block of Highway 61, a bank employee reported a man cashing a fraudulent check for more than $4,000. The incident is under investigation. • At 6:33 p.m. on Aug. 27 in the 900 block of East County Road E, deputies arrested a 40-year-old woman from Minneapolis for an active warrant out of Washington County after locating her in a
Chevrolet Malibu. • At 9:20 p.m. on Aug. 27 in the 900 block of East County Road E, a man called to report a cell phone being left in his restaurant by two men he said were going in and out of the building and acting strangely before they left. The phone was dropped off at the patrol station for safekeeping until its owners were located. • On Aug. 27 a 37-year-old man from St. Cloud and another man who would not provide his name showed up at the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Station to retrieve a cell phone that had been left at a business and turned into deputies. They started recording and asking deputies questions about what they should do if they were to be assaulted. • On Aug. 27 in the 1100 block of East County Road D, deputies responded to a report of a catalytic converter theft after a 47-yearold woman woke up and found it missing from her Chevrolet Malibu. The matter is under investigation. • On Aug. 29 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies issued theft citations to three men after they were caught attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.
White Bear Township
• On Aug. 23 in the 4100 block of Hoffman Road, deputies responded to a report of a 37-year-old woman from Lake Elmo being injured during a water skiing stunt. She was conscious and breathing when they arrived and later transported to a hospital for evaluation. • On Aug. 27 in the 5700 block of Hugo Road, the Water Patrol Unit responded to a report of an injured American Bald Eagle in Bald Eagle Lake, rescued the apex predator, and arranged transfer to the Raptor Center for treatment. • On Aug. 29 in the 2500 block of East County Road F, deputies responded to a report of a man damaging tent poles belonging to a 52-year-old woman. The matter is under investigation.
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026 www.presspubs.com
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Familiar face leaves legacy of service behind DEBRA NEUTKENS CONTRIBUTING WRITER
When William “Bill” Matschke retired after 50 years in the insurance business, he said he planned to spend his free time “fishing.” Asked if her dad ended up putting angling at the top of his leisure list, daughter Sarah Matschke surprisingly replied, “no.” He did spend time on the golf course, as promised, but mostly his retirement consisted of hours spent serving organizations like the White Bear Lions, Knights of Columbus and the American Legion. “I think dad used ‘fishing’ as a metaphor for doing the things he loved,” Sarah said. “He was involved with White Bear stuff every day. He was super proud to do volunteer work for local organizations and was an active Catholic who taught us the importance of serving.” The Wall That Heals traveling memorial that stopped here recently was a highlight for Matschke, according to Sarah. “I think he was out there every
day volunteering at that memorial. It was very personal for him.” Matschke was a Navy veteran who served a tour in Vietnam after graduating from White Bear, class of ’66. He died unexpectedly at home Aug. 22 (see separate obituary) at age 78. It was November 2021 when Bill and his younger brother John closed their State Farm agency at Hwy. 61 and Seventh Street after 50 years of helping people with their insurance needs. They didn’t want much fanfare. In fact, Bill said he preferred as short a goodbye as possible. The brothers took over the business from their father Julian, who started selling insurance in 1947 from the back of Benny’s Barbershop. Her dad was proud to be a State Farm agent, said Sarah. “And he was a proud grandpa who never missed a grandkid’s hockey game. I would simply say that everyone who knew him knew how humble he was. I don’t know if there is anything else to say, except he loved us.”
FILE
Bill Matschke, seated, and his brother, John, retired from the insurance business Nov. 30, 2021.
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PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Gregory Charles Honsa, 70, of Mahtomedi, has been charged with threats of violence – reckless disregard risk for an incident that
occurred on Aug. 21. According to the criminal complaint, a deputy with the Washington County Sheriff’s office received a phone call regarding a gunpointing incident. A father reported that at approximately 1:50 p.m. on
Aug. 21, he was playing basketball with his son in the driveway at their home in Mahtomedi when he observed Honsa retrieve a cardboard box that contained an outline of a long gun image on top of it. He then saw Honsa retrieve what appeared to be an AR-15 rifle from the box, shoulder it into a firing position and point the barrel of the rifle directly at his son. Deputies obtained a search warrant for Honsa’s house and vehicle and
recovered a box that matched a description of the cardboard box as well as a black AR-15 pellet/BB rifle. According to the complaint, Honsa told deputies that he had the gun out that afternoon while his neighbors were playing basketball outside, but said he was pointing it in various places, not directly at the son. Honsa is next scheduled in court on Oct. 26.
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SP TTED AROUND TOWN
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1 1. As of Sept. 3, White Bear Lake County Park Beach is closed until further notice due to elevated E.coli levels. — Paul Dols | Press Publications 2. Dan Guidinger of White Bear Lake recently won a race on his MC scow “Guiddyup” at the ILYA regatta on Lake Minnetonka. — Contributed 3. F our candidates for White Bear Lake Area School Board met with community members on a Friday evening over root beer floats at a home in Vadnais Heights. Pictured (from left) are: Amanda McFarlane, Ryan Vernosh, Amy Puschinsky and Chris Streiff Oji — known as the MVPS. — Contributed
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4. Donatelli’s held a ribbon-cutting to celebrate its 50th anniversary on Wednesday, Sept. 2. — Patty Steele, Press Publications
Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to whitebearnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.
PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE
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: ACEC Minnesota 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 30 E 7th Street, Suite 2725 St. Paul, MN 55101 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. American Council of Engineering Companies of Minnesota 30 E 7th Street, Suite 2725 St. Paul, MN 55101 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: August 31, 2026 Signed: Megan Dayton, CEO Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 9 and 16, 2026.
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: The Snark Market 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 4133 Oakmede Ln St Paul, MN 55110 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. Jill Birckelbaw 4133 Oakmede Ln St Paul, MN 55110 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: August 25, 2026 Signed: David A. Birckelbaw, Authorized Agent Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 2 and 9, 2026.
OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE
WORKFORCE INNOVATION BOARD PUBLIC NOTICE The Workforce Innovation Board of Ramsey County has posted updates to the 2024–2027 WIOA Local Plan for public comment (Sept 9- Oct 8). The Plan is available at ramseycountymn.gov/wib in Related Resources or for a paper copy call 651-266-6004. Submit comments to Rebecca.Milbrandt@ ramseycountymn.gov. Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 9, 2026.
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: HailGeeks 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2515 White Bear Ave N #154 Maplewood MN 55109 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. Northern Infinity Group LLC 2515 White Bear Ave N #154 Maplewood MN 55109 I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath. Dated: September 1, 2026 Signed: Slava Grigoriev Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 9 and 16, 2026.
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: The Marketing Catalyst 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2190 County Rd F E White Bear Lake, MN 55110 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. Aubrey Bork Vannatta 2190 County Rd F E, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 Simply Creative llc 2190 County Rd F E, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 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: August 17, 2026 Signed: Aubrey Bork Vannatta CEO, Simply Creative, llc; Principal Marketing Consultant, The Marketing Catalyst Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 2 and 9, 2026.
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP
NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE 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 Monday, September 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., to consider a Variance to allow construction of a fence at eight (8) feet tall at 2550 South Shore Boulevard. The full legal description is on file available at the Township and the applicant providing the following legal description as: LOT 4, BLOCK 3, BELLAIRE SECOND ADDITION, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA. 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 September 2, 2026. PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 9, 2026.
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
VADNAIS LAKE AREA WATER MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION (VLAWMO)
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES August 27, 2026 ENGINEERING SERVICES. The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) seeks proposals from qualified engineering firms to provide professional engineering services for 2027 and 2028 on an “as needed” basis. The VLAWMO Board is seeking a renewal of general engineering services to address a growing need. VLAWMO will select a firm based on experience, technical capacity, billing rate, responsiveness and the scope of services listed here: stormwater management, feasibility studies, design assistance, technical assistance with grant applications, stormwater management review and comment of development applications, as requested. A full copy of the RFP is available on the VLAWMO website: https://www.vlawmo.org/sub/news/request-proposals-engineering-services Please submit proposals electronically via PDF by 4:00 PM on September 30, 2026 to phil.belfiori@vlawmo.org. Questions should be addressed to Phil Belfiori, Administrator, by email and phone. Both questions and proposals: phil.belfiori@vlawmo.org. 651-204-6073. Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 2 and 9, 2026.
VADNAIS LAKE AREA WATER MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION (VLAWMO)
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE LEGAL COUNSEL SERVICES August 27, 2026 LEGAL COUNSEL. The Vadnais Lake Area Water Management Organization (VLAWMO) seeks proposals from qualified firms to provide professional legal counsel services on an “as needed” basis. The VLAWMO Board is seeking a renewal of legal counsel services to address a continued need. VLAWMO will select a firm based on experience, technical capacity, billing rate, responsiveness and the scope of services listed here: stormwater management, public drainage, & utility issues; contract & agreement review; legal boundary updates; Wetland Conservation Act appeals; enforcement action; and Joint Powers Agreement updates, as requested. A full copy of the RFP is available on the VLAWMO website: https://www.vlawmo.org/sub/news/request-proposals-legal-services. Please submit proposals electronically via PDF by 3:00 PM on October 1, 2026 to phil.belfiori@vlawmo.org. Questions should be addressed to Phil Belfiori, Administrator, by email /phone. Both questions and proposals: phil. belfiori@vlawmo.org. 651-204-6073. Published two times in the White Bear Press on September 9 and 16, 2026.
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP
NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE 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 Monday, September 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., to consider a Variance to reduce the required 35 foot front yard setback to accommodate construction of a covered porch at 2581 4th Street, no closer than 26 feet from the property line. The full legal description is on file available at the Township and the applicant providing the following legal description as: LOT 10, BLOCK 1, CHALUPSKY ADDITION, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA. 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 September 2, 2026. PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 9, 2026.
WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP
NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 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 Monday, September 21, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., to consider an amendment to an existing Conditional Use Permit to align Ramsey County Parks and Recreation operations at Tamarack Nature Center with Town processes. Two zoning text amendments are also proposed to provide a definition of “Nature Center” in Section 3 and adding the use “Third Party Vendors accessory to a Nature Center” as a Permitted Use in the Open Space Zoning District for property at 5287 Otter Lake Road (Parcel ID 103022330003). The full legal description is on file available at the Township and the applicant providing the following legal description as: The South half of the southeast quarter of the northwest quarter of Section 16, Township 30, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota; 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 September 2, 2026. PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on September 9, 2026.
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026 www.presspubs.com
WHITE BEAR PRESS
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PERMANENT SCHOOL FUND: What voters should know about amendment FROM PAGE 1
made up of the governor (who is designated as chair), state auditor, secretary of state and attorney general. The SBI operates much like the financial department of our school districts by looking for opportunities to make money. For example, the Mahtomedi School District financial team crunches numbers all year long with the goal of balancing the budget in an era of ever-rising costs by making the most of its investments and finding dollars here and there. School districts search for millions of dollars in revenues to offset millions of dollars in expenditures. Funding from the PSF is one of the revenue sources school districts count on. The Mahtomedi School Board recently studied the amendment question and presented information about the PSF and the changes the PSF is asking voters to approve. The amendment is asking voters whether changes should be made to increase the annual payout to schools from 2.5% to 4.5% of the
More state history and a timetable involving the PSF lands "The amendment is asking follows: voters whether changes • 1858: Minnesota became a state and received millions of acres of land from the should be made to increase the federal government for public schools. These lands created the school trust lands. • 1900: Many of the original acres in the southern part of the state had been sold. annual payout to schools from State policy then shifted to preserving remaining lands for the long-term interest of Minnesota’s public school students. 2.5% to 4.5% of the fund’s • 2024: The Minnesota Legislature established a nonpartisan task force to evaluate the PSF and make recommendations to the Legislature. average value." • 2026: In January, the PSF task force reported its recommendations to the fund’s average value. The changes to increase the annual payout will involve different, less restrictive investment strategies to yield more revenue and modernize the way the funds are distributed. Given the rise in the performance of the new investments over the last seven to 10 years, the school trust investments have gone up in value. But the distribution amount could be much more without impacting the long-term viability of the principal, Mahtomedi Schools Superintendent Barb Duffrin said. At present, each Minnesota district receives approximately $68 per pupil. If the amendment passes, there is
To learn more about the Minnesota Permanent School Fund and this fall’s constitutional amendment, visit any of the following websites: • Permanent School Fund at www.minnesotapsfamendment.org • Association of Metropolitan School Districts at www.amsd.org • Minnesota School Boards Association at https://mnmsba.org • Minnesota Association of School Administrators at www.mnasa.org • Minnesota Rural Education Association at http://mreavoice.org.
Legislature. • 2026: The Minnesota House and Senate passed legislation with bipartisan support to update how the PSF is distributed. Before heading to the polls, remember — the amendment will not: • create a new fund • change the purpose of the trust • raise income or property taxes the potential for each district to receive $101 per pupil. “It’s not a make or break for a budget, but it is a significant boost to the budget at $100,000 for our district,” Duffrin said. “It’s predictable funding, which is something we talk about a lot here,” Duffrin said. “When legislative changes are huge and don’t allow us to have predictable funding, that’s a real challenge for us, especially our small districts, so any place we can find more predictable funding is a good thing for us.” Of course, school districts such as Mahtomedi would be in favor of the “Yes” vote on the constitutional amendment question for reasons shown above. “Who would vote ‘No?’ The money from the PSF land comes from leases, forestry and mining, which is a red flag for people who fear that mining and logging will increase. However,
the land will continue to be used for the purpose it has always been used for,” Duffrin said. The Minnesota School Trust holds approximately 2.5 million acres of land today, along with an additional 1 million acres of severed mineral rights. Most of these lands (92%) are concentrated across 10 northern Minnesota counties that include the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. These lands are also intermixed with county, federal, private and other state-owned lands. To learn more about the Minnesota Permanent School Fund and this fall’s constitutional amendment, see pullout box for more resources. Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.
Two local health fairs connect residents with community resources BY MADISON WEIDEN FELLER CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Residents in the northeast metro will have two opportunities this September to connect with local health, wellness and community resources, with upcoming fairs in White Bear Lake and Vadnais Heights. Both have plenty to offer to the public, everything from flu shots and health screenings to senior services and family activities. Press Publications will host its annual White Bear Area Senior Health Fair from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the White Bear Senior Center, 2399 Cedar Ave., a new location this year. The Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation will follow with its third annual Health and Wellness Resources Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 at White Bear Lake Area High School, 5045 Division Ave. While the two events serve different audiences, organizers say the goal is to make it easier for residents to learn about health-related services available close to home. For Press Publications General Manager Patty Steele, that means putting together a variety of resources for adults 55 and older under one roof. The Senior Health Fair will include organizations representing hospice care, senior housing, in-home care, hearing services, dermatology, eye care, independent senior living, bath safety and other services. Cub Pharmacy will provide flu shots. A full page with a complete list of vendors can be found on page 7. Steele said the event can be valuable for both older adults and for family members helping aging parents navigate health and care decisions. “I know when I was dealing with
FILE PHOTO
White Bear Area Senior Health Fair runs from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16, at the White Bear Senior Center. The Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation will follow with its third annual Health and Wellness Resources Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 at the White Bear Lake Area High School.
ailing parents 15 years ago, I wish I knew of a senior fair that had information to help guide me as the adult child making tough decisions,” Steele said. This year will mark the fair’s first time at the White Bear Senior Center’s new Cedar Avenue location. Steele said the event has been held at the former senior center for many years, but this will be its first year in the center’s new space. Renowned and returning Gary LaRue will perform during the event, something Steele said attendees have responded positively to in previous years.
Food will be available at no charge. Donatelli’s will provide its famous cheese rigatoni, while Pine Tree Apple Orchard will provide apples. Just three days later, the VHEDC Health and Wellness Resource Fair will broaden the focus to residents of all ages. VHEDC Executive Director Liz Moscatelli said the organization launched the event three years ago in part because of the number of healthcare companies in the community. “We wanted to showcase this event to the northeast metro area,” Moscatelli said.
The organization hopes to attract “young families through seniors, and everyone in between,” she said. Visitors will be able to access hearing screenings, flu vaccinations and blood pressure checks, along with information about mental health, veterans services and other wellness resources. Participating organizations include Advanced Dermatology, Metro OBGYN, Compassion & Choices, Cadre, Audio Nova Hearing Screening, Bear Care Clinic, Mapletree Pediatric Dentistry, Five Star Bath Solutions, Medica Health Plans, MNGI, Lions Diabetes Foundation, St. Croix Hospice, Success Fitness & Training Center, Security Bank, Summit Orthopedics, The Carlson Clinic, Urgency Room, Veterans Services and White Bear Lake Area Schools HOSA. A standout attraction will feature an inflatable colon sponsored by MNGI that attendees can walk through. The fair will also include activities aimed at children. Children’s Discovery Academy will host a coloring station, and a Bricks & Minifigs station will offer a LEGOstyle building activity. Concessions and a coffee bar will be available. Attendees can enter a door prize drawing for a basket filled with donations from participating vendors. Moscatelli said organizers ultimately hope visitors leave with a better understanding of the resources available to support both physical and mental health. “We know that putting a spotlight on our organizations that provide excellent care to our youth, adults and seniors is a vital part of a healthy community, which helps all of us stay vibrant and strong.”
12 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
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STATE FAIR SURPRISE: Unexpected gift brings veteran relief, peace of mind guys really love each other,’” he explained. “I thought that was the community I needed, and it turned out to be exactly what I needed.” Griebenow served with the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, New York, deploying to Logar Province, Afghanistan, from 2013 to 2014 following Air Assault School. He went on to complete Airborne School before joining the 4th Brigade, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne) — now the 11th Airborne Division — in Alaska, participating in numerous airborne operations. In 2017, Griebenow transitioned to the Minnesota National Guard, where he deployed to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, trained alongside the Omani military, served as a squad leader and supported state activation efforts in Minnesota following the deaths of George Floyd and Daunte Wright.
In 2020, Griebenow was officially diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. He attempted to seek help back in 2017 and was told he “was perfectly fine.” While taking a psychology class at Century College where PTSD was discussed, Griebenow learned what he was up against. He says the National Guard took him seriously, gave him the support he needed and retired him in 2024. Over his military career, Griebenow earned multiple awards, including the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Basic Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Afghan Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, GWOT Service Medal and GWOT Expeditionary Medal. (“GWOT” is the acronym for the Global War on Terrorism.) Kelly Gulbrandson, director of community relations at Apple Autos, said this is the dealership’s
Blake Griebenow takes his first close-up look at his family’s new car.
“I never expected it, but it’s so cool.” Blake Griebenow White Bear Lake veteran
sixth year in giving away a vehicle to a veteran through a partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation’s Transportation4Heroes program in collaboration with Wells Fargo and Apple Autos. “Our company is built on a commitment to our customers, employees and the community around us and so we try to show up in a wide range of community initiatives, from supporting local families in our neighborhoods, to scholarships in the high schools that surround us, veteran or single-mom giveaways,” she explained. Apple Autos centers its charitable giving and community initiatives around childhood, health, education, wellness and veteran support. “This really fits into everything we believe in,” Gulbrandson said. “It’s so rewarding to be able to hand over keys of a car to someone who really is deserving and trying their best. These vets come back with a lot of medical issues and struggles and providing them a car really gives them that leg up as their next journey continues.” In addition to the Bronco, the Apple Autos team tried to make the surprise a little sweeter by gifting the family a signed Minnesota Wild jersey, camping supplies and items for their 9-month-old daughter Eleanor, like a teddy bear and diaper bag. When asked about his reaction to the surprise, Griebenow said, “I
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Before the surprise, people took the time to write messages of support and thanks on the Bronco.
cried a little bit.” He explained that he is currently the breadwinner of the family paying for groceries, gas and daycare while his wife, Angie, is paying off college debt. “Her (Angie’s) car is getting ready to hit the bucket, so I was really going to be stretched thin having two car payments …. So, it’s amazing that this economic boulder could be lifted off my shoulders,” he said. He added that the Bronco will also bring him peace of mind because it’s a much safer option for Angie and Eleanor. Although Griebenow hadn’t necessarily had his eye on a Bronco, he was very excited that it was a Ford. His great-grandfather used to own a Ford dealership in downtown St. Paul. “It’s a full-circle thing,” he said. “I never expected it, but it’s so cool.” Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
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FOOTBALL: Bears strike quickly, rumble past Park PAGE 19
PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Shock, sadness, uncertainty followed 9-11 attacks BILL COUNIHAN | CONTRIBUTED
Above: In 2001, many local residents were among the estimated crowd of 35,000 people who gathered quietly and peacefully for a ceremony at the State Capitol honoring the victims of terrorism.
Above: One of the photos White Bear Lake firefighter and Air Force veteran Bill Counihan shared with the White Bear Press following his trip to Ground Zero. After the Tuesday morning attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001, he decided to make the eighteen hour drive to Station 10 in Manhattan to offer assistance to the local firefighters at the site. He commented that the size and scale of the devastation at the site was difficult to comprehend and said “It’s a very sad place. You don’t know what emotion to feel, hatred, anger or depression.”
At right: Taps was played during an emotional ceremony in Vadnais Heights honoring the victims of the terrorist attacks.
At left: The mood was somber at the VFW while news was broadcast Tuesday afternoon following the attacks.
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BROOKE HENNESSEY: Sept. 11 witness discusses survivor’s remorse FROM PAGE 1
home my father built with his own two hands … every wall measured, every nail pounded in on his weekends and evenings after work. My mother filled that house with warmth, with love, and with the scent of something always baking in the oven. My family is very close. Growing up, I had this unshakable confidence … this feeling that the world was wide open and that I knew exactly who I wanted to be. Since I was a little girl, I loved stories. I’d get lost in watching “Annie” and would lock myself in my walk-in closet and sing. I would create characters and practice them in front of the mirror. So, when I told my parents I wanted to sing and be an actress, they didn’t laugh. They just nodded, the way parents do … thinking I’d probably grow out of it. But I never did. At 17, I booked my first feature film, “Drop Dead Gorgeous.” I was a junior in high school, standing on a set next to some of the biggest names in Hollywood, thinking, this is where I belong. When I got accepted to my dream school, NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, I thought the universe had laid out the red carpet. In the fall of 2001, I had just started my junior year at NYU. I was living on the 22nd floor of a building on Water Street, just blocks from the World Trade Center. On the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 11, I woke up at 6 a.m. to do laundry. I planned to go for a run but for some reason, decided to crawl back into bed. Not long after, my phone rang. It was my friend Greg. He lived in the same building. He said, “Look out the window and turn on the TV. I’m coming up to get you.” I walked to my window; it faced north and saw the first tower engulfed in clouds of smoke. On the television, anchors’ voices cracked as they tried to make sense of what none of us could believe. Greg arrived, and we stood there together, watching in silence. I remember whispering, “It’s going to fall.” And moments later, it did. At that point, I knew everyone was dead. It was the closest thing to being on a battlefield, without enlisting. The building we were in shook. Everything went black. Smoke and rubble rushed toward us, and blew our industrial windows open. Alarms blared. I grabbed my keys, my cell phone, and a fifty-dollar bill. I ran down 22 flights of stairs in flipflops past students screaming, “Get out!” Campus security was tearing bed sheets into strips and dipping them in water, handing them out. “Put this over your mouth and walk north or over the Brooklyn Bridge.” I pressed that damp sheet to my face. People wandered aimlessly, holding cell phones in the air, trying to find service. We clustered around parked cars, listening to the radio for direction that never came. We decided to walk north. I didn’t know anyone in Brooklyn, and I was panicked. I was in my pajamas, clutching my phone and my keys. As we walked, we passed Chinatown, Little Italy, and Soho. The smell of gas hung in the air, sharp and terrifying. The collapse of the WTC had set off explosions throughout the city. People were panicked and started pushing one another. I didn’t know which direction to run and was scared to
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
A view of Lower Manhattan at about 8:30 a.m. before the planes hit on Sept. 11, 2001. The apartment Brooke Hennessey was living in at the time is circled.
run into one of those explosions. Then I remembered I had my keys to the tanning salon on Bleeker Street where I worked in Greenwich Village. That small thought, “I have keys,” felt like a lifeline. I sprinted through the streets, fumbling with my keys, banging on the door. The owner, James, let me in. And for that moment, I felt safe. That salon became my shelter. Over the next week, I floated from place to place, trying to find somewhere to sleep. Nyack, Chinatown, a dorm room, a couch, sometimes a tanning bed. I made a blanket out of hand towels and mailing tape in the tanning salon. It was heavy, and it was warm. I borrowed clothes from friends. My parents were desperate to reach me, but no one could get in or out of Manhattan. They asked what I needed. I said, “Sneakers.” That might sound strange, but jogging was the only thing that made me feel human again. They mailed me care packages with sneakers and snacks, and I held onto that $50 bill for dear life. I didn’t know when I was going to return to my dorm room, so I didn’t want to spend my cash. I would walk to Radio Shack and ask to use a phone charger to charge up my phone for the day. When NYU finally found us housing at the Sheraton Hotel in Times Square, it felt surreal. A full week had gone by. They gave us $300 to buy clothes, which does not buy you much in Manhattan. The weather was turning cold too, and I needed warm clothes. For a while, the Sheraton became home. I became friends with the concierge behind the desk, and they allowed me to access the continental breakfast. So, I would run in the gym every morning just to outrun the anxiety. I’d head up to the breakfast, eat and then take the complimentary apples and oranges from breakfast. I would grab a New York Times, roll it up and stuff the newspaper full of fruit, and that’s what I ate for the remainder of the day. It wasn’t glamorous. It wasn’t brave. It was survival. Have you ever gone through something that changed you? Something that split your life in two before and after? For me, 9/11 was that line. I started to secondguess everything. I was sitting at my dream school in acting studio and contemplating the meaning of life. How was I sitting in class memorizing a monologue, when New Yorkers were digging through rubble looking for bodies? It felt foolish. I was so depressed and felt like I wasn’t deserving of feeling that way because I was fine. When I finally returned to my apartment weeks later, I found my
Pete’s story On 9/11 I was in the lobby of the Lawson Building in St. Paul watching the news display of the events occurring in New York City. It was surreal watching the crumbling of the massive structures. Pete Narloch White Bear Lake
laundry still hanging on the drying rack, my computer still on my desk, but some things were missing. Cash. Jewelry. My camera. The environmentalist that was sent to clean out our refrigerators and check for asbestos had looted us. I remember riding the subway again for the first time under the WTC. The train was silent. Everyone just stared straight ahead. You could feel the grief in the air. When firefighters got on, they smelled of burnt rubber. I wondered who they’d lost that day, what they’d seen, what they’d carried home in their hearts. The subway walls were plastered with missing person posters, thousands of them. Faces of mothers, fathers, sons, daughters. There wasn’t enough wall space for all the people who never came home. When I left New York that Christmas, I looked out the taxi window as we crossed the Brooklyn Bridge, and I sobbed. The skyline was broken. The world I loved was changed forever. For a long time, I didn’t talk about it. When people asked, I’d change the subject. I told myself, “You weren’t in the towers. You’re fine. You have no right to be sad.” But inside, I wasn’t fine. I carried this quiet guilt, for surviving when so many didn’t. There’s a name for that … survivor’s remorse. It’s a symptom of PTSD, but back then, I didn’t know that. I just
Twenty-five years later, Brooke Hennessey continues to work through what she experienced. She has had to deal with “survivor’s remorse,” a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder, where one feels an overwhelming guilt for surviving a traumatic event when others did not.
thought I needed to “get over it.” If you’ve ever felt that, the guilt of being okay when others aren’t, please hear me: it doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re human. For years, I pushed everything down. I didn’t want to burden anyone. I didn’t want to be broken or a victim. I wanted to keep moving, keep achieving, keep performing. But silence is heavy. It sits on your chest. It steals your breath. And for a long time, that silence was my companion. You know, people talk a lot about PTSD, and thank God we talk about it more now. But what we don’t talk about enough is the quiet version … the version where you get up every day, go to work, smile and carry a SEE REMEMBERING 9/11, PAGE 15
Sandra’s story On September 11, 2001, I was oblivious to the horrific actions of the al-Qaeda terrorists until my father called me on my landline and said, "Are you watching the news?" I had recently been married and was busy packing up the furnishings in my condo to move into the home that my husband and I had closed on in May. I had lived alone for 25 years and was looking forward to experiencing the next chapter of my life with a partner. On 9/11, both the TV and stereo system (which had a radio) were already at the new house, so I had no way to see or hear the news while in my condo. I had a landline as well as a Motorola V60 cell phone but neither provided access to "breaking news." After hanging up the landline, I rushed out of my condo into the hallway and began knocking on doors. It didn't take long until two women who shared a unit invited me in so I could watch the tragic and shocking news that left all three of us screaming and sobbing. We three were among the millions of people simultaneously trying to call loved ones. In hindsight, I am amazed that my father was able to get through to me on the phone. Due to the unprecedented surge in phone calls, telephone switches were so overwhelmed that I was unable to connect with my husband. I was terrified that al-Qaeda may be planning to destroy downtown Minneapolis where my husband worked. Thankfully, downtown workers were instructed to evacuate. I was so grateful when my husband came home physically unscathed. Yet, the psychological aftermath of what befell our nation still lingers. In October of 2025, I visited the site of the 9/11 attacks in New York City. The outdoor Twin Towers Memorial and the adjacent indoor museum are very stark and tangible reminders of the great tragedy that befell the United States of America. It is a place that brings back insufferable memories to those who witnessed the catastrophic strike. The cavities of dark weeping water that flows where the towers once stood are reminders of how empty life feels during times of grief. Yet, many are compelled to go to the place where grief lingers. The eternal flowing waters restore a sense of hope, humanity and sanity in a troubled world. The years roll by. My father passed away in January. On August 25, my husband and I celebrated our Silver Wedding Anniversary with family. The 2 World Trade Center skyscraper is under construction as part of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Manhattan. It will replace the original 2 World Trade Center that was destroyed on September 11, 2001. Sandra Bestland Vadnais Heights
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REMEMBERING 9/11: Readers share their experiences of that day 25 years later FROM PAGE 14
weight no one can see. Millions carry their story alone. I was one of them. But here’s the beautiful part of my story… The part where life, in its strange and winding way, brings you back to yourself. Before 9/11 … before the chaos, before the fear, before the numbness that followed, I was an actress. A storyteller. A girl with unstoppable confidence, BIG dreams and a fire to bring characters to life. And even though my path was derailed, even though trauma knocked me sideways, that little girl with the loud voice and the big dream never fully went away. Today, I am a wine professional and voiceover actress. Both allow me to tell stories for a living. It reminded me that even broken voices can speak truth. Even shaken voices can carry power. Even quiet voices deserve to be heard. My grandfather was a World War II veteran. Growing up, I remember the way he told his stories, not to glorify, not to dramatize, but to remember. To honor the people who didn’t come home. To pass truth down to the next generation. To make sure nothing important was ever forgotten. That’s what I believe about 9/11. That’s what I believe about all moments that shake the world. We must tell our stories. Even the painful ones. Especially the painful ones. Because when we don’t talk about what we survived, the memories don’t disappear, they bury themselves deeper. And the people who lived the stories vanish twice. When my oldest son turned 6, I sat him down and shared my story. He listened and then said, “So I might not have been here today.” That response was unexpected but very true. How wise he was in his younger years. Every year on the anniversary of 9/11, we hear people say: “Everyone remembers where they were when the towers fell.” And I believe the anniversary is a day for ALL of us, survivors, witnesses, the entire country to tell that story. To pass it down to our children. To share it with the next generation, so they understand the weight, the resilience, the unity that came after. We honor by remembering. We heal by speaking. We connect by sharing our stories in honor of the
Gail’s Story
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Brooke Hennessey returned to New York to visit the 9/11 memorial and saw the Survivor Tree. The plaque reads, “The Callery pear tree stands distinct from the hundreds of swamp white oak trees. It was discovered amid the wreckage of the 9/11 attacks, its bark charred from fires at the site and many of its limbs reduces to stumps. Yet somehow, the tree still bearing leaves, showed signs of life.”
mothers, fathers, sons, daughters who vanished. The first responders who ran toward danger. The firefighters who climbed stairs they knew they might never climb down. The police officers, EMTs, volunteers and everyday heroes. The people we never got to meet, but who remain part of who we are as a nation. May their courage and their memory continue to guide us. If there is one thing I want you to take away from my story, it’s this … You don’t have to earn your pain. You don’t have to compare it. You don’t have to justify it. You don’t need permission to feel it or to heal from it. Trauma looks different on everyone. But healing begins the same way, with a single, brave decision to speak. For years, I believed I wasn’t “worthy” of being sad. I believed others had lost more, suffered more. But pain is not a competition. And surviving does not make you weak. It makes you responsible. Responsible to live, to honor, to speak, and to share the truth of what you’ve been through. Telling my story today is part of my healing and part of my purpose. Part of how I honor those who didn’t get the chance to speak for themselves. If sharing my story
Alex’s story I was in fifth grade when 9/11 happened. I was in Mr. Sibley’s class, every morning we would sit in a circle and talk about what we did over the weekend or what we were going to do the upcoming weekend. It was coming up to my time to speak; I was very excited because that evening after school we were going to take my older brother Tyler out to Chino Latino downtown for his birthday (sadly, he was born on 9/11). Moments before it’s my turn, our math teacher Mrs. Alverez came running into the room to tell Mr. Sibley to turn on the TV. He asked her what channel, and she said it doesn’t matter; she then proceeded to go to the other classrooms to inform them of the same thing. We did not see the first tower hit, but we did see the moments leading up to the second one and eventually watching in real time the second tower hit. It was surreal not understanding what was happening; the first one seemed like a tragic accident. Then the second one woke us all up to the terrible reality that we might be in danger. It was then and there that I realized we (the U.S.) were not untouchable, and tragedy can strike at any time. After the dust (literally and figuratively) settled, he then turned our talking time into open discussion of how we were feeling and trying to help guide us into understanding and comforting us. I was terrified of going downtown now, because what if the terrorists hit there? It was a very terrifying time, but the aftermath showed me how truly unified as a country we can and should be and the decade following was the most American pride I had ever felt. I truly hope (without tragedy) that we return to the unification. 9/11 will forever be something I cannot forget, nor should we. To watch thousands of people killed and traumatized on live television was something I don’t think I can ever get over. Never forget. Alex Clemans White Bear Lake
helps even one person feel seen, feel understood, feel less alone, then it’s a win. So, I ask you: What story have you been afraid to tell? What truth have you carried alone? Who in your life needs to hear it? To learn from it? To feel less alone because of it? Because your story, just like mine, is part of someone else’s survival. Brooke Hennessey has called White Bear Lake home for the past 15 years, where she lives with her husband, Joe, and their two sons, Hawkins, 12, and Hanks, 6. A proud hockey mom, Hennessey has also worked as a professional voice-over actor for 13 years and has spent her career in the wine industry, currently representing Crimson Wine Group. To learn more about Brooke and her voiceover work, visit BrookeVoice.com.
Sharon’s story On the last day of our Mediterranean Cruise, we were visiting Turkey when we saw the disaster on TV. Five days later, we were allowed to fly to New York City on our way to Minnesota. Princess Cruise Line paid for our hotel in New York and never charged us for the extra days on the boat. The Turkish people were very sympathetic and understanding. Sharon Nelson White Bear Lake
September 11, 2001. I was in the Golden Rule building in Saint Paul, where I worked. I was sitting in the chairs where people had their coffee breaks. They had overhead TVs. When people saw what being shown on the screens all conversations were silenced. Everyone was trying to make sense of what their eyes were reporting to them. My first thoughts went to my brother Skip (Walter Robokoff, Jr.). Skip lived in Manhattan and rode the ferry every day to New York City, where he was vice president of JP Morgan and Associates on Wall Street. Skip was also an ordained minister and Skip preached the Gospel every day on the ferry to and from work. I knew Skip was in the middle of the horror and would be arriving at work about that time. I was unable to get ahold of him, as all phone services were dead. I finally got ahold of him at 10 o’clock that night. He was alive! He said that he had just gotten off the ferry (when he could see a plane). When he looked up, he wondered which side of the towers that plane was going to go on; it didn’t. Skip saw a Post-it note laying on the ground, he reached down and picked it up. Then laid it back down, knowing that it had just been on somebody’s desk. He looked up and saw the horror coming down on the whole city. They were herded like cattle out of the city. When he got out of the city, he had no soles left on his shoes and he was covered with ash. Skip’s only words to me at that time? “I hoped I made a difference in some of their lives.” He was referring to the people he preached the Gospel to every day that were now deceased. Skip then went through years and years of turmoil with mental illness and PTSD. I flew Skip back here to White Bear Lake to get him help. As a child, Skip had been tested and shown to be genius. The counselor said those with the highest intelligence generally suffered the greatest from these things. Skip ultimately died in 2019 from the combination of all the suffering every day in his life since 9/11. I watched what this evil did to my beloved brother, I wanted to absorb his pain, and I knew there were so many more people that were experiencing the same thing. I also saw America come together and be united like they had never been before. Gail McNertney White Bear Lake
Susan’s story I was in college. I remember seeing about it on the news on TV in my apartment before I went to class. It was surreal. I called my mom. She was worried the Mall of America would be targeted. At class a lot of people were absent. The students who were there were very quiet. It was a big auditorium biology class. So, it felt strange. At the end our professor gave us an extension on our work and told us to go spend time with family if possible. I was 23. It was really eye opening for me. Wars and terrorists had only been things I’d seen in movies or some far away place that felt like it could never reach me. I had never felt unsafe before. Susan Berlien Shoreview SEE 9/11 STORIES, PAGE 20
16 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
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Meet Your Specialist Tom Schneider, owner of Schneider Custom Woodworks, has lived in the area for 30 years. He started his company in the spring of 1996. S.C.W. does residential and commercial cabinetry, custom kitchens, home theaters, custom built ins, hutches, bath vanities, basement/commercial bars, tables, booths, cashier counters, and cabinets. They install millwork such as base and case trim, banisters, handrails and steps.
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WINDOW CLEANING
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The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.
17
CLASSIFIEDS 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.
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Thank You Thank God, St Mary and St Jude for favors granted!
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Help Wanted
362
Miscellaneous DON¡ÇT 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
Centennial School District NOW HIRING: Kid's Club Staff, CusGET DISH SATELtodians, Nurses, Food LITE TV + INTERNET! Service Staff, Paraprofessionals To apply Free install, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 visit: isd12.org/joinon-demand movies, our-team plus limited time up to $600 In gift cards. Call Kind Hearts Assited Living, LLC in WBL is today! 855/*562*4309 hiring a Personal Caregiver. Mon-Fri, I BUY CLASSIC Cars some wknds, 7a-3p Especially convertand 3p-10p, Contact ibles 50/60s Adam: 763*/222*4838 Impala/55-57 Bel or adamfele64@gAir/Cadillac/Monte mail.com Carlo/Cutlass/BuickCaprice/Chevelle/MerLooking For Student cedes/ect. Any condiTo Help With Yard tion, call Bill Work At WHITE BEAR 414/514*1828 COUNTRY INN Call NO MORE CLEANBill 651/429*5393 ING OUT GUTTERS Rudy’s Redeye Grill Guaranteed! LeafFilter is HIRING a line cook is backed by a no-clog for nights and week- guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. ends. Must have one Call today yr exp. Cll Jacquln 888/755*5761 to @ 651*/272*3783 schedule a FREE inspection and no oblior send resume to gation estimate. Get Jschoen@whitebearcountyrinn.com 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & get an addiRudy's Redeye Grill Seniors tional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions is looking for a apply, see representaline cook/prep tive for warranty and cook for nights & offer details.
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REPAIRING OR REPLACING APPLIANCES and home systems like heating and cooling can be costly. A home warranty plan can help. Start saving and get 30% off any plan today. Workmanship Guarantee included. Terms apply. Call Cinch Home Services 855/887*4521 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
369
Want to Buy WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not. Titled or not. Will pick up. Cash in exchange. Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/*720*2142
White Bear Lake
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
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Want to Buy 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
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Garage Sales Huge Garage Sale 2335 7th St WBL Sept 11-13, 9-4 HONEY I SOLD YOUR HORSESHOE SET & POKER CHIPS Workbench, Tools yard games/toys furniture, dishes $women's clothing & shoes ladies' golf clubs instruments art supplies,frames Event Tent COME EXPLORE! Cash/Venmo OK
Tool & Sports Sale 5385 Northwest Ave WBL Thur-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-2 Large Vintage & newer items for all Trades & Sports. Clothes, free items
Rummage Sale St John in the Wilderness Church 2nd & Clark Fri-Sept 18th 9-3 Sat-Sept 19th 9-12 Saturday Only $2.00 a Bag
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Rentals/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm | 651-407-1250 classified@presspubs.com
18 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
www.presspubs.com
OBITUARIES
William (Bill) J. Matschke
Robert Phillip Knight, Jr.
Age 78, of White Bear Lake, passed away unexpectedly on August 22, 2026. Bill was born, raised, worked, walked, served, and played right here in White Bear Lake—a community he proudly called home his entire life. He attended St. Mary’s Elementary School and graduated from White Bear Lake High School in 1966. He was an avid hockey player. After high school, he played Juniors in Waterloo, IA. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Bill returned home to White Bear Lake, where he began a career with State Farm. For an incredible 50 years, he served as a State Farm agent in the community he loved. He was proud of that accomplishment, those who worked alongside him remember something even more important: Bill was simply the best. Bill was a familiar face around town. He walked every day—to the post office, the bank and to lunch at places like Eat, Key’s and Cobblestone. At the 617 he was simply “Bossy Bill”. His commitment to White Bear Lake extended far beyond his career. Bill was a longtime member of St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church and throughout his career he was involved with the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, White Bear Lake Historical Society, VFW and American Legion. He was also a member of the White Bear Volunteer Fire Department. Bill was an avid golfer, whether on the course or watching. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s hockey and soccer games. He was a quiet presence. Above all, Bill was a humble and generous man who lived his life guided by his Christian faith. He taught his daughters the importance of being grateful, saying their prayers every day, caring for others, volunteering, and giving back. His faith wasn’t something he simply talked about—it was something he lived. And, as his daughters would joke, the only day Dad wasn’t in church was Sunday. Bill’s greatest pride, however, was his family. He will be deeply missed by his four daughters, Molly (Todd), Mary, Sarah (Murray), and Theresa (Dewey); his grandchildren, Christian, Bretia, Ryan, Anna, Taylor, Austin and Tanner; and his two greatgranddaughters, Aimarie and Zoey. He is also survived by siblings Barb and John and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Julie May and JoAnne. Bill leaves behind much more than memories. He leaves behind a family who carries the values he lived by, a community that was better because of him, and countless people whose lives he touched through his kindness, generosity and service. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on September 25 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A celebration of Bill’s life will follow at the White Bear Lake American Legion. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who knew Bill to honor his memory by doing what he did so well: help someone, give back, say a prayer, and be grateful.
August 29, 1948 – August 20, 2026. Robert “Bob” Phillip Knight, 77, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away on August 20, 2026, in Fargo. Robert was born on August 29, 1948, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Robert Phillip Knight and Shirley Warren Knight (Shores). He grew up in White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and graduated from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. Robert spent nearly his entire career as a Senior Underwriter with American Family Insurance. Bob married Linda Sue Peterson of St. Paul, Minnesota. Together they made their home in Fargo and shared nearly 53 years of marriage. Bob loved skiing, animals, and time spent with his family. He looked forward to taking his family to Red Lodge, Montana, for their annual ski trips. He loved all animals, especially his husky, Christmas was his favorite time of year, and he took great joy in decorating and celebrating the holiday with his family. He was an active member of Hope Lutheran Church, Fargo. He was known for his devotion to his family and his faith. He is survived by his wife, Linda Sue Knight (Peterson); and his brother David Warren Knight and sister Katie Searl, his daughters, Amy Knight Witte (Bret) and Jennifer Rheault (Jamie); grandchildren, Dayne Byars, Tatum Byars, and Madison Witte, and Isaac and Sylvie Rheault. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Phillip Knight and Shirley Warren (Shores) Knight. A funeral service was held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 31st, 2026, at Hope Lutheran Church, 2900 Broadway N., Fargo, North Dakota, with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m.
Margaret Roslyn (Ryan) Fox Age 91, of Dellwood, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2026. Preceded in death by husband, Leonard G.; siblings: James, Mary Corley, Jean Corley, and Theresa Weisinger. Survived by children, Leonard P. (Jill), Geoffrey R., Juliet R. Fox (Forrest) and Maya J. Park; grandchildren, Paris, Savannah, Summit, and Milena; great-grandchildren, Royal, Ariyah, and Orion; and siblings, Barbara J. Carnes (Bob); Veronica J. DuPuis (Paul); Joe P. Ryan (Sharon); John T. Ryan (Gailyn) and Elizabeth K. Alexander (Larry). Funeral Mass to be held at 11 AM on Thurs., Sept. 10, 2026 at St. Jude of the Lake, 700 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, visitation at 10 AM on Thur. and from 4 – 7 PM on Wed., Sept. 9, 2026 at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, Rosary Service at 7 PM Wed. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery to follow Fri., directions available on Mueller Memorial website. Mueller Memorial, www. muellermemorial.com, 651-429-4944
White Bear Lake
Movie in the Park
LIONS CORNER
Saturday, September 12, 2026 Movie begins at dusk 8:00 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
865097
www.whitebearlions.org www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/hugomn www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/wildwoodmn www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/vadnaishts
Are you looking to get involved in serving the White Bear community? We would love to have you join us! We meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at Carbone’s Pizzeria and would love to have you as our guest to see what we are about. Just go to www.whitebearlions.org or contact any member of the club.
Movie hosted by:
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Polar Lakes Park • 1280 Hammond Road • White Bear Township
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Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and don’t forget bug spray for this FREE, fun and familyfriendly movie night at Polar Lakes Park.
SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
www.presspubs.com
Bears strike quickly, rumble past Park 48-28 in opener BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
White Bear Lake scored a defensive touchdown in the first minute, then unleashed a mighty offense the rest of the way and defeated Park 48-28 in the football opener. RJ Stuckey picked off a pass on Park’s second play from scrimmage at Cottage Grove and had clear sailing to the end zone for a 33-yard touchdown. Stuckey also had a 55-yard kickoff return to start the second half. Brian White III pounded Park for 211 yards on 15 carries with touchdowns of 21, 10, and 68 yards. The Bears had 270 rushing yards with Hank Stuemke adding a 19-yard touchdown and 62
WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
19
BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS BOYS SOCCER
White Bear Lake defeated Coon Rapids 2-1 and scrapped to a 1-1 tie with Hill-Murray. The Bears are 1-1-1. Michael Haselman and Mason Voeller scored against Coon Rapids, Owen Schachtner had an assist and goalie Logan Metzger made six saves.
GIRLS SOCCER
yards in 13 carries. Quarterback Wyatt Stachowiak completed nine of 12 passes for 159 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions. Biran White snagged five aerials for 117 yards, highlighted by his diving end zone catch for a 22-yard TD. Stachowiak also hit Adam Eicher for a three-yard score. Antonio Brown caught three passes for 39 yards. Chase Bachmeier booted seven extra points. The Bears punted just once. After a 14-14 first quarter, the Bears rumbled to a 41-14 lead. Park closed the gap with a pair of long touchdown passes. The Bears will host Coon Rapids Friday.
White Bear Lake clipped closest neighbor Mahtomedi 2-0, getting goals by Piper Heinsohn in the fifth minute, with a pass from Ellyse Oelker after she intercepted the ball, and by Grace Weierke in the 65th minute off a feed from Heinsohn. Sophomore goalkeeper Hayden Law made six saves for the shutout. The Bears (2-1) lost to Rosemount 4-1. Lila Paradise had the lone goal.
SWIMMING & DIVING
White Bear Lake won its dual meet opener against Park 105-75. Event winners were Eva Hoefer (200 freestyle, backstroke), Charlotte McIntyre (individual medley, butterfly), Audrey Borofka (50 and 100 freestyle), Anna Zarambo (diving), Sophie Collins (500 freestyle), and the 200 freestyle relay with McIntyre, Hoefer, Anna Miller and Borofka.
TENNIS
White Bear Lake lost to South St. Paul 6-1, then beat Cretin-Derham Hall 4-3. The Bears had a sweep of the singles against CDH by Lisa Gritzmacher, Hadley Farrell, Trinity Swims and Emma Lutz. In doubles, CDH beat Lauren Carlson/Sophia Sargent, Matilda Moore/Lucy Wolfe (6-4, 4-6, 12-10) and Evie Weiner/April Baumler.
ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS VOLLEYBALL
Mahtomedi nabbed its first win 3-1 over St. Paul Highland Park. The scores were 25-12, 25-22, 16-25, 25-18. Abby Nyquist notched 12 kills, and Mackenna Feustal five kills and four blocks for the Zephyrs (1-2). On Monday, Chisago Lakes beat them 25-20, 35-33, 16-25, 26-24. McKenna Korus made 33 digs, Anna Hynes 10 kills and Margo Kiely nine kills and three blocks
BOYS SOCCER
Mahtomedi (1-1) defeated Roseville 4-1, sparked by Maximillian Pollack with two goals, and Parker Maas with a goal and assist. Benicio Macias scored the other goal and Caleb Nyquist had an assist. The Zephyrs allowed just three shots on goal.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Biron White of the Bears made a lunging, fingertip catch for a 22-yard touchdown on a pass from Wyatt Stachowiak.
TENNIS
Mahtomedi (3-1) beat Roseville 6-1 with wins by Abby Manger, Liza Moffitt, Molly Driscoll, Brooke Berg/Ellie Driscoll, Berkley Blaisdell/ Sailor Carlson and McKinley Drage/Ava Rasmussen.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Grace Weierke White Bear Soccer September 9, 2026
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Grace Weierke, Bear soccer forward, tallied three goals in the first three games against strong opponents. The 5-foot-4 senior found the net twice against Centennial in a 3-2 win and once against Mahtomedi in a 2-0 win. “Grace is a dangerous forward who uses her speed to put a lot of pressure on the defense,” co-coach John Dierkhising said. “She has great timing with her runs to get to the spots when needed, and the ability to finish.” Weierke, who logged nine goals as a junior, has committed to Northern State in South Dakota.
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SYNTHETIC BLEND
20 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS
SEPTEMBER 9, 2026
www.presspubs.com
9/11 STORIES: Readers write in with memories of where they were that day FROM PAGE 1
J’s story
Pete’s story
It was a day like most others ... I turned on the morning news on the TV and woke my kids up for school. I was making the bed in my bedroom when my 9-year-old son ran in and said, “Mom …. a plane just flew into the World Trade Center in New York City.” I remember thinking what a terrible accident that must have been for a small plane to crash like that until I saw the breaking news and knew that something horrible was happening to our country. I remember starting to cry as my kids were looking at me, not understanding what was happening. I had a hard time understanding what was actually happening myself! Somehow in a fog I got them to school and then came home to sit in front of the TV in disbelief. Later that night my kids and I draped the American flag over the front door and lit a candle in remembrance of all who had died in this unbelievable attack against our country. I stayed up all night watching the news … with tears streaming down my face. It started out as a day like most others and became one of the saddest days for our country … one we can never forget! J Neren White Bear Lake
On 9/11 I was in the lobby of the Lawson Building in St. Paul watching the news display of the events occurring in New York City. It was surreal watching the crumbling of the massive structures. Pete Narloch White Bear Lake
Kerri’s story
Gene and Susan’s story
Michael’s story
On September 11, 2001, we arrived at a hotel in Rouen, France, where a group of animated guests were waiting for us in the lobby. Knowing we were Americans, they urgently tried to tell us something, speaking too rapidly in French and German for us to understand. We finally got the message: go watch the television in our room. The TV was replaying the planes striking the Twin Towers. The commentators spoke French, but we understood what had happened. Then, to our horror, we watched live as one of the towers collapsed. My immediate concern was my nephew, a Marine Captain who worked in the Pentagon. After several anxious attempts, I reached my mother and learned he was safe. He had stopped in his Pentagon office on the morning of September 11 but fortunately went across the street to serve as the duty officer in a Marine Post that day. He saw the plane hit the Pentagon and the subsequent explosion. The fire reached his office Pentagon office. In the following days, we noticed an abundance of flowers at American and British War Memorials and flags at half-mast. The French and English people literally wept over us as they stopped to express their sympathy. We found ourselves hugging other Americans that we met, finding comfort and solidarity as we shared our emotions. In London, people were lined up outside several churches waiting to write a message to Americans in a “Book of Condolences.” We returned home with a lasting appreciation for the kindness and concern Europeans showed Americans in those frightening days after September 11. Gene and Susan Peterson White Bear Lake
On September 11, 2001, I was a special ed student at White Bear Lake - South Campus. During my morning class, I heard about the attacks. Hearing the news made me very sad. It also made me think of all of the kids who lost their parent(s) in the attacks. I’m 43 years old now and I think and speak about the tragedy and victims of the attacks often. May they rest in peace. Michael Luecke Gem Lake
I remember that morning like it was yesterday. I had gotten my three kids off to school and was getting a little breakfast when my friend called; she was quite emotional. She told me to quickly turn on the TV. My heart just sank, she immediately asked where my husband was, as he traveled weekly for work. I told her he was on an early morning flight to Chicago. At that point, no one knew where the flights were from, and the second plane now had just hit the other tower. My fears and concerns began to heighten. We stayed on the phone together as we watched the horrors unfold before us on the news. Eventually, my phone beeped, I had another call coming in. I saw it was from my husband, and I immediately took the call. The moment I heard his voice my eyes filled with tears. His voice just quivered as he said, "I just wanted to let you know that I am OK …" he was in disbelief as was I, it was a very emotional conversation. We all prayed for the victims, for their families and for our country. Kerri Luecke Gem Lake
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On 9/11/01 I was in ninth grade at Mounds Park Academy. I distinctly remember thinking on drive to school about how nice of a day it was. It was sunny and just nice out. To this day I don’t know why I was so observant of the weather. I was between French and English class when the first attack happened and in English when we started to notice some of the seniors running around the hallway announcing that something bad had happened. In my in young adolescent mind, I knew this was big and I knew it was horrible. I still don’t think that at that time I was fully able to really process what a historic event this was. How could this possibly happen in the US? Am I really seeing this stuff on TV? Is this for real? But we’re in Minnesota like this stuff doesn’t happen… Here I am 25 years later with a more educated and completely different and more compassionate understanding of 9/11 compared to my 14-year-old self at the time. Annika Callaghan Shoreview
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