White Bear Press by Press Publications

Highway 96 corridor study wraps up with final open house

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

A two-year study is about to wrap up that will help guide both shortand long-term improvements for the Highway 96 corridor.

The study, a partnership between Washington and Ramsey counties and MnDOT, kicked off in the summer of 2024 after Washington County took over ownership of a portion of the roadway (east of Highway 244 in Dellwood) from the state in 2023.

“The goal of the study was to better understand issues and opportunities and help plan for future improvements,” said Washington County Project Manager Madeline Dahlheimer. “In ongoing coordination with MnDOT and Ramsey County, it was determined to expand our study to include the portion of roadway still under MnDOT jurisdiction (west of Highway 244 all the way to Highway 61). … That’s going to help all of the agencies plan for needed improvements.”

Study findings

The study dived into the approximately 10-mile segment between Highway 61 in White Bear Lake to Highway 95 in Stillwater. Dahlheimer says the study focused on safety and multimodal improvements.

“Often when we come through and do a study, there is a concern that we are expanding the roadway, but we are not looking at Highway

IF YOU GO

When: 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, May 4

Where: Crosswinds Community Church, 9125 Newgate Ave. N, Stillwater

Details: Washington County will host its third and final open house for the Highway 96 corridor study. Attendees are encouraged to review the study recommendations online ahead of time and attend the in-person event to talk to staff, ask questions and discuss next steps. Study recommendations can be found online at https://tinyurl.com/bd22apa6.

Contact: Maddie Dahlheimer, 651-430-4338

BY LORETTA HARDING CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Needed major road work is coming to Mahtomedi soon. So is the unavoidable inconvenience.

Residents in or near Mahtomedi have approximately one year to get their errands done while they can still leave town. Or get back in. Within the next three years, two of three major portals in town will be closed. The Mahtomedi City Council at its April 7 meeting negotiated with Washington County engineers to make sure they both weren’t shut down at the same time.

The city of Mahtomedi asked for a delay to the start of Highway 120/ Century Avenue turnback reconstruction until 2028 so that motorists could still get to I-694 (the west portal) while the turnback reconstruction on Highway 244/ Mahtomedi Avenue (the north portal through Dellwood) gets underway. Drivers will still be able to come and go using Hilton Trail and Highway 36 (east portal) during the entire road reconstruction period, but would probably encounter an unacceptably large traffic volume if that were the only way to come and go from town for two years or more.

During the Highway 120 /Century Avenue North reconstruction project, the road will be excavated, infrastructure will be installed, and complete resurfacing will take place between County Road E/ Wildwood Road to I-694. The changes are expected to improve traffic flow and intersection control, improve pedestrian and bike

CALENDAR BRIEFS

Minnesota VFW Auxiliary District 4 hosts dog walk for Believet

Support veterans and change lives by walking your dog. At 1 p.m. Sunday, May 3, community members are invited to attend a 2-mile dog walk from Matoska Park (2345 Fifth St.) to the VFW Post (4496 Lake Ave.) and back. Registration/donations will be collected, and proceeds will be given to Believet, a nonprofit organization based out of Northfield, Minnesota, that trains service dogs for veterans living with disabilities to restore independence, confidence and hope.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

VFW, Legion host joint day of service

In preparation for Memorial Day, the VFW Post 1782 and American Legion Post 168 will join the Auxiliaries and the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) to host a joint day of service to clean veterans’ headstones on Saturday, May 9.

At 9 a.m. one team will start at Union Cemetery, and another team will start at St. Mary of the Lake Cemetery. Later, teams will head to St. St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Cemetery. A special cleaning solution will be provided, but volunteers are encouraged to bring work gloves, knee pads, eye protection

World-renowned organist featured at 2-day festival

St. Andrew's Lutheran Church will welcome Southern Methodist University professor and world-touring organ recitalist Stefan Engels, who will highlight the music of 20th-century German composer Sigfrid Karg-Elert in a two-day celebration of his vast works.

A workshop and presentation at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 25 begins this mini-festival. The concert in the sanctuary at 2:30 p.m. Sunday,

and tools like weed whackers, leaf blowers and hand shovels.

If you know of a veteran’s grave that has not received an American flag on Memorial Day, contact the VFW at infovfwpost1782@gmail.com.

Chamber reschedules AdoptA-Highway cleanup

The White Bear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has rescheduled its Adopt-A-Highway cleanup due to weather. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 13, volunteers are invited to help the chamber clean up its 2-mile stretch of Highway 61.

“It’s the weekend before Manitou

April 26, will be followed by an artist's reception with light refreshments.

As an advocate, champion and specialist in the music of Karg-Elert, Engels’ program will span the vast range of musical personality expressed by the renowned lateRomantic German composer and organist.

Of note is that Karg-Elert played the rededicatory concert on a Casavant Opus 1177 organ in 1932 after its relocation to a new chapel on the Phillips Academy campus in Andover, Massachusetts. This connection is historically notable, as St. Andrew's 1927 Casavant organ, the largest pipe organ in Minnesota, has tonal resources particularly wellsuited to producing the wide range of sonorities and textures found in Karg-Elert's music. St. Andrew's acquired, rebuilt and dedicated the 7,310-pipe organ in the fall of 2001.

The events are co-sponsored by St. Andrew’s and the Twin Cities Chapter of the American Guild of Organists and all are welcome, free of charge. St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church is located at 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi.

All are welcome to attend inclusive concert

Join Light in the Well and White Bear Lake Area High School for an inclusive concert featuring musicians with and without disabilities. The concert will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, at the WBLAHS Performing

Days, so we hope everyone will help us clean up just before the big festival,” said Chamber Executive Director Kari Moore. “Our annual Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup is a meaningful opportunity to connect with other local professionals while working side-by-side to keep our shared spaces clean, welcoming and beautiful.”

Attendees should plan to meet at the chamber office for coffee and a quick breakfast before the cleanup. After the cleanup, the chamber will treat volunteers to lunch. To register, visit https://www.whitebearchamber. com/events/eventscalendar. The event is weather dependent.

Arts Center. The concert is free, but registration is appreciated at lightinthewell.com.

Light in the Well creates inclusive musical experiences where individuals of all abilities are seen, heard and celebrated.

Join weekly walking group for women

Women Who Walk is a once-a-week opportunity for women of all ages to enjoy outdoor exercise in a social setting. The group meets Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. at the Mahtomedi District Education Center for a trek along the Lake Links Trail and through local neighborhoods. Routes many vary, and include paved and unpaved trails, and multiple speeds are available to suit various interests and levels of endurance. Registration is free but required at mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com/ course/2177/2026-winter-spring—2/women-whowalk-free; or learn more by contacting sammy. wallace@isd832.net.

Lake Links, Historical Society seek input on points of interest along trail

The Lake Links Association and White Bear Lake Area Historical Society are collaborating to develop stations along the Lake Links Trail that include QR-code signage that provides information on history and natural history highlights. Anyone who has ideas for specific stops to feature can email them to lakelinksmn@ gmail.com.

CONTRIBUTED

Stefan Engels will visit St. Andrews Lutheran Church April 25-26.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

RITE OF SPRING

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 25

Where: Wildwood Elementary, 8698 75th St. N., Mahtomedi

Details: Free family event with hands-on workshops, information stations, trucks to explore and other kids activities; on-site recycling 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and prescription drop-off 10 a.m.-1 p.m.. Mahtomedi Passages Transition Program will collect and give away Zephyr gear. Contact: mahtomedi.ce.eleyo.com

'ONCE UPON A MATTRESS'

When: April 24-May 17

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake

Details: Lakeshore Players' presents a twist on the classic fairy tale “The Princess and the Pea.” Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

ST. CROIX BALLET: 'CINDERELLA'

When: 7 p.m. Friday, April 24; 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25; 2 p.m. Sunday, April 26

Where: Stillwater Area High School 5701 Stillwater Blvd.

Details: Performance by the dancers of St. Croix

Ballet, to the music of Prokofiev, with beautiful set and costumes.

Contact: stcroixballet.com

GANGSTER BUS TOURS

When: 10 and 11:30 a.m. Saturday, April 25

Where: White Bear Armory, 2224th St.

Details: Explore the hideouts and haunts of the 1930s era gangsters who laid low in the cottages around White Bear and Bald Eagle Lakes. Sights include a Mahtomedi speakeasy and the location of a notorious dance club.

Contact: whitebearhistory.org

TRASH TO TREASURE DAY

When: All day Saturday, April 25

Where: White Bear Lake and White Bear Township Details: All city and Township residents can put unwanted items marked “free” at the end of their driveways for treasure seekers to pick up. Contact: whitebearlake.org/ee/page/trash-treasureday

SEED LIBRARY 10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT

When: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, April 25

Where: White Bear Lake Seed library, 2150 2nd St. Details: Celebrate with activities for all ages, including planting, games, information about harvesting, saving and growing seeds, treats and seeds. Children welcome with parents/guardian. Contact: wblseedlibrary.blogspot.com

SHOREVIEW NORTHERN LIGHTS VARIETY BAND SPRING CONCERT

When: 3 p.m. Saturday, April 25

Where: Bethel University, Benson Great Hall, Arden Hills

Details: “Sounds of Stage and Screen”-themed program features medleys from Broadway productions, John Williams’music from Star Wars, selections from the Disney repertoire, and themes from James Bond films. Also special musical guests Justin Sales and Sydney Elliot. Tickets online, at Shoreview City Hall, or the Bethel box office. Contact: snlvb.com

LAKES IN HOT WATER: A HISTORY OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN LAKES

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, April 27

Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 2nd St.

Details: Jay Austin, professor with the Large Lakes Observatory and the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota Duluth, presents his research on the physics of large lakes. Program in person or online.

Contact: http://bit.ly/NEMCA0427

BOOK DISCUSSION

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28

Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St.

Details: Community members are invited to a discussion of "Here Comes the Sun: A Last Chance for the Climate and a Fresh Chance for Civilization" by Bill McKibben, a Vermont-based author and speaker who was one of the first to sound the alarm about the climate crisis. Hosted by the WBLUMC Green Team.

Contact: wblumc.org

UNDERSTANDING IMMIGRATION: OPERATION METRO SURGE - WHERE ARE WE NOW?

When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 30

Where: St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi

Details: Community event to reflect on Operation Metro Surge, how it affected our community, and learn and share about what's needed now, presented by Many Faces of the White Bear Lake Area.

Contact: manyfaceswblarea.org

WHITE BEAR LAKE CLEANUP DAY

When: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 2

Where: 4200 Hoffman Road (former public works site), White Bear Lake

Details: Get rid of unwanted items for a small fee. Household hazardous waste is not accepted. Proof of residency required. See list of accepted items and fees online.

Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov/cleanup

OPINION

Species of frogs

Did you know there are 12 species of frogs and toads in Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is seeking volunteers to help with the frog calling survey? For more than 40 years, the DNR has been working to understand the status distribution and long-term population trends.

Between Minnesota and western Wisconsin there are countless volunteer opportunities available for families and individuals, which include becoming a volunteer trainer, helping with ATV license training, or the Minnesota Pollution Control citizen stream monitoring program. How fun would it be to have an assignment visiting and monitoring a stream or monitoring the water clarity in lakes, using the secchi disk technique? If you find yourself wanting something to do in nature that makes an impact, a volunteer position with one of our agencies is a great way to fill a morning, afternoon, evening or weekend. These positions can be memorable, let alone impactful in youth development. There are even activities you can do with your kids or grandkids.

Although some think state and federal agencies exist for only enforcement, they really do work to help manage and better our resources through permitting, hunting regulations, pollution and public land use. Some of the memorable stories that stand out are when our reporters have shadowed individuals with the DNR, national parks service, local police or sheriff’s departments and fire departments. It can be a real eye-opener to do a ride along with a local agency as they do a safety check of an overloaded power boat on the river, or in a row boat as they net hundreds of walleyes in a stocking pond to be released in our lakes. I guess the old adage rings true that you “need to walk a mile someone’s shoes” to get a real understanding.

A former city manager shared how he took on a volunteer role when his kids were young to monitor water clarity. I remember wishing I had taken the kids with me when I covered a controlled burn at Standing Cedars Land Trust in western Wisconsin. Another memorable moment was covering the mussels count on the St Croix River. We were in a canoe and photographed the divers as they would pull up mollusks from the river bed. I wonder how the mussel counts are now, especially after the major change in how the river water levels were controlled. The St. Croix dam went to an electronically-controlled system for outflow around 15 years ago. After those controls were installed, the river has had less fluctuations. Did this factor into the mussel counts? I remember crossing the Highway 243 bridge and talking with my young kids on the way to and from preschool about how the dam was going to restrict outlet flow. I encouraged them to watch the sand bars and islands, telling them they are all sandy now, but soon they will be overgrown with grass and trees. Today they still remember that correlation of the dams outflow.

This summer look for opportunities to get involved. There are many ways you can make a difference with our youth or touch nature in our communities. Volunteering can help our state and federal agencies. Let’s stay involved and be in the know with the outdoors we love and the planet we call home.

Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

Ramsey County passes Building Stronger Together

Residents consistently tell me that their property taxes are too high and continue to grow.

That concern is real—and it demands a serious response. Recently, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners unanimously passed a bold new economic development plan, Building Stronger Together. This plan is centered on two key strategies: targeted investments to support a dynamic downtown St. Paul and the sale of county-owned land ripe for redevelopment. The way we build our community shapes our financial future. Around half of Ramsey County’s general fund is currently supported by property taxes while only about half of our land is taxable (the rest is made up of tax-exempt property, public infrastructure, and natural features like lakes). In order to build property tax capacity, reduce property taxes, and shift burdens away from residents; we must be intentional.

Building Stronger Together is rooted in the county’s values of well-being, prosperity, opportunity and accountability. It advances and operationalizes key resident-centered recommendations and strategies from the Ramsey County Economic Inclusion &

Limited to 350 words. Submissions must Include a full name, address and daytime phone number for verification. Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area. Letter writers are limited to six letters per

and

Competitiveness Plan, the All Abilities 2050 Transportation Plan, and the Ramsey County Transit Improvement Plan. This plan includes $250 million in targeted investments to create a more vibrant, active downtown and $70 million to unlock more than 630 acres of county-owned land to drive transformative growth. Due to Ramsey County’s strong fiscal management (including maintaining a triple A bond rating for over 25 years), we can rely on existing resources and strategic bonding – not additional increases to the property tax levy - to make high-impact investments now while advancing legislative requests.

Downtown investments: Data shows that dense, mixed-use development in the urban core generates significantly more tax value per acre than lower-density suburban areas.

Downtown St. Paul produces approximately 8.3-times more taxable value than the share of Ramsey County land it occupies. We believe that Ramsey County investments in projects like the Park at RiversEdge, office-to-residential conversions, improved public spaces and transit connections and supporting business growth - in partnership with public, private and community stakeholders - will catalyze downtown economic revitalization.

Sale of county-owned land: Building Stronger Together transforms underutilized land into powerful engines for economic prosperity across Ramsey County. Through strategic site readiness and strong partner-

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

ships with cities and developers, we are not just planning for growth—we are actively converting these opportunities into lasting economic impact.

This plan strengthens our commitment to the development of Rice Creek Commons by investing Ramsey County dollars to construct Rice Creek Boulevard and site preparation.

These infrastructure investments are a critical step in delivering housing across income levels, creating well-paying jobs and building a sustainable, energy-forward community.

How we grow and invest directly impacts affordability for residents and the county’s ability to invest in roads, parks, libraries and essential services like public safety, public health and social services. Building Stronger Together recognizes that property tax burdens are too high for our residents and focuses on broadening the tax base to more fairly and sustainably reduce that property tax burden. For more information on this initiative, you can access: RamseyCountyMN.gov/BuildingStrongerTogether.

Stay up to date on District 1 news by signing up for my newsletter and following us on Facebook. If you have questions, concerns, or would like to set up a meeting, please contact me at Tara.JebensSingh@ramseycounty.us or 651-266-8362.

Let's keep the conversation going!

Tara Jebens-Singh is the District 1 Ramsey County Commissioner.

Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published. All letters are subject to editing. Deadline is 5 p. m., Thursday of the week prior to publication. To submit a letter, e-mail it to whitebearnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110. Press Publications publishes 99% of the letters to the editor that meet the guidelines.

Carter

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

New leadership needed

Once again, the White Bear Lake School District has made the local news and, once again, it isn’t flattering. This time, the story is how the school board has changed the rules to silence those not in the majority asking for discussion of financial policy. Why?

White Bear voted in a massive school bond in 2019. After months of voting “no” on a bond audit, and after pressure from the public and one board member, Dan Skaar, preparation of this audit was finally approved, and financial discrepancies are being discovered.

Now, the current superintendent is preparing to ask for another bond while the audit on the last one isn’t even completed yet. Since the last bond, property taxes have increased by an average of 35% while the White Bear School District has added 66 administrative positions and enrollment has declined. For reference, in that same period, Mahtomedi has added zero administrative positions and is seen as a “destination district” for

open enrollment while White Bear is not. Now, in an attempt to save money, White Bear is proposing to combine its fourth and fifth grades next year. How is this beneficial for any of the students? How about slashing some of these administrative positions that were added in the last bond?

When this next bond comes up for a vote by the residents, don’t fall for the “Vote Yes” for the students. It’s not. It’s another increase in your property taxes while students keep leaving the district. This district needs new leadership, financial accountability and open dialogue with parent input instead of a rubber stamp for the wishes of a failed superintendent. If you want an example to follow, look east about a mile.

Rick Voeller White Bear Lake

More to the story

Kudos to the White Bear Press for its April 8 article covering the White Bear

Township annual meeting on March 10, where residents accepted the board’s proposed preliminary 2027 tax levy. The preliminary levy of $8,245,000 represents an increase of 12.8% over the previous year’s preliminary levy, which is four times the rate of inflation (3.4% for the last 12 months).

There is another important element to the story. Township residents, at December’s annual budget meeting, did not accept the board’s final tax 2026 levy proposal of an 8.3% increase, and instead adopted a citizen resolution of a more conservative 7% increase. When the board’s preliminary 2027 levy proposal is compared to the actual 2026 levy the township is operating under, their proposed increase comes in at 24%.

Board staff are very clear that these numbers are preliminary and represent the maximum increase that could be adopted. Given recent history, these numbers will be reduced as the board gets better data and is able to narrow the increases. But since the real base target is the adopted 2026 levy, they have a lot

Trail construction begins

Construction on the first phase of the Bruce Vento Regional Trail extension has begun.

The first phase of the project will extend the trail 2.7 miles from its current end point at Buerkle Road to the intersection of Highway 61 and Hoffman Road.

The trail will be located on the east side of Highway 61, cross under Highway 61 (near Cedar Avenue) and then follow Hoffman Road. The southbound right turn lane from Highway 61 onto Hoffman Road will be removed as a part of the project to accommodate pedestrian crossings and to improve safety. Connections to the existing

pedestrian trails and sidewalks will also be constructed as a part of the project.

Last week, contractors mobilized on the site and began tree and vegetation removal, and grading is expected to begin this week. Substantial completion is expected in November. Design of Phase 2 of the project from Whitaker Street to County Road J has already begun and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. For more information, visit www.ramseycountymn. gov/residents/parks-recreation/planningconstruction-restoration/bruce-ventoregional-trail-improvement-overview.

of Minnesota Professor Arash Davari. The event will address the historical roots and evolving dynamics of conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States. The discussion will also examine what the future Iranian political and cultural scene will bring. There will be

of work to do. We hope they collaborate with their interested residents to develop a budget that can be presented by the board and accepted by its residents.

Wipe slate clean

In follow-up to Jennifer Thayer's letter from last week's edition titled “School board needs Robert Rules,” a $538,218 double payment, one of 15 similar "infractions" — total dollars unknown to me — may account for a portion of my personal 2023-2024 50% property tax increase.

Who is watching this irrational group flounder through their day and our tax dollars at will? Time to wipe the slate clean, find people who can run a calculator and stop spending cash like it's on a board game.

Church to raise money for families affected by Operation Metro Surge

Parkview United Church of Christ will host a fundraiser for local families affected by recent federal agents’ actions from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 25. The event will include a silent auction, more than 20 vendors, food trucks, plant sale and bake sale. Proceeds will assist families with rent payments. Parkview UCC

Join local residents for National Day of Prayer event

A National Day of Prayer gathering will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 7, at Community of Grace Lutheran Church, 4000 Linden Street, White Bear Lake. The event is sponsored by a group of concerned citizens from multiple denominations.

ample time for questions.

The program will be held at St. John in the Wilderness Episcopal Church, located at 2175 First Street, White Bear Lake. The event is free to attend, though an RSVP is requested.

Owen Knabb

Matoska Elementary

CHURCH BRIEFS

Greg Hubinger White Bear Township

Dave Brockel White Bear Township

located at 3737 Bellaire Avenue, White Bear Lake.

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 2400 block of Spruce Place April 8.

• Theft of gym services was reported on Orchard Lane April 8. A suspect accesses gym benefits by using someone else's membership.

• Officers responded to a theft in the 900 block of Wildwood Road April 9.

• Theft was reported near the 4100 block of Hoffman Road April 9.

• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 1500 block of Park Street April 10.

• Officers responded to a verbal dispute in the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 10.

• A man was issued a citation for no insurance following an accident near the intersection of County Road E and McKnight Road April 10.

• No injuries or damage was reported after a bicycle hit a school bus in the 3900 block of Bellaire Avenue April 10.

A White Bear Lake man was arrested on two felony drug warrants on Century Avenue April 10.

• An Anoka man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 10.

• A man was issued a citation for failure to yield following a twovehicle accident near the 4600 block of White Bear Avenue April 10. Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 2100 block of Third Street April 10.

• Officers responded to a dog bite in the 4900 block of Lake Avenue April 10.

• Officers advised an owner to leash their dog near the 4800 block of Lake Avenue April 10.

• Two dogs were reported at large near the 4900 block of Lake Avenue April 10.

• A homeowner in the 2200 block of Sierra Drive was advised about barking dogs April 10.

• Officers responded to a noise

complaint in the 1900 block of Webber Street April 11.

• A resident in the 3900 block of Scheuneman Road was advised about a dog complaint April 11.

• Officers responded to a civil problem in the 3800 block of Prairie Road April 11.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI April 11 following a medical call in the 1700 block of Fourth Street.

• Officers responded to a family domestic incident in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road April 11.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for misdemeanor domestic assault following a report of a domestic disturbance in the 1800 block of Whitaker Street April 12.

• Officers located a vehicle wanted in a State Patrol investigation on Glen Oaks Avenue April 12.

• Officers responded to a disturbance in the 3700 block of Bellaire Avenue April 12.

• A St. Paul man was arrested on an active Department of Corrections felony warrant following a report of a disturbance in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue April 12.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue April 13.

• A domestic assault suspect wanted in Woodbury was located and arrested in the 4600 block of White Bear Parkway April 13.

• Officers mediated a dispute April 14 in the 2400 block of Jansen Avenue. Officers responded to a report of a missing person in the 3700 block of Van Dyke Street April 14.

• Fraud was reported in the 4800 block of White Bear Parkway April 14.

• Harassment was reported in the 3900 block of Highway 61 April 14. Officers responded to a neighbor dispute in the 4600 block of Bald Eagle Avenue April 14.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested for a domestic abuse nocontact order violation following a traffic stop in the 3500 block of Century Avenue April 14.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies received a phone call from an Apple Orchard Court resident on March 26 regarding identity theft, after someone had twice used his information to open and use credit cards in his name.

Grant

• Deputies received a call from a male in the 8000 block of 75th Street N. on March 22 with questions about how he could get his car keys away from his wife. Deputies advised the complainant of the civil nature of his complaint.

• In the Case of the Squirrelly Muskrat, deputies were dispatched out to the 9000 block of 71st Street N. about a small muskrat on the complainant’s deck on March 25. Deputies described the muskrat as very smart, fast and squirrelly. “He was well versed in parkour, very athletic,” they said. “After some blood, sweat and tears, we were able to escort the muskrat off the property.” Deputies thanked Deputy Yetter, two hockey sticks, the hot dog cooking stick and the snow shovel, which were all deployed during the operation.

Mahtomedi

• Residents in the 800 block of Wildwood Road reported a theft March 19 and advised deputies that it might be worthwhile to study video footage from

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

• A 29-year-old woman reported March 17 that someone broke into her rented storage unit in the 3200 block of Highway 61 and stole kitchen utensils, a blender, a washing machine, TV, clothing, lamps, furniture and a fire chimney worth more than $1,500. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies issued a theft citation March 17 to a 43-year-old St. Paul woman after she was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for more than $145 worth of merchandise.

• An animal control officer responded March 18 to a report of a dog being attacked by another dog in the 400 block of Vadnais Lake Drive that is owned by the complainant’s neighbor. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies arrested a 43-year-old St. Paul man March 18 for thirddegree possession of 10 grams or more of a narcotic other than heroin or fentanyl after they conducted a traffic stop on the ramp of County Road E to southbound I-35E. They stopped the vehicle after it crossed over lines on the road.

Deputies responded March 19 to a report of two male Walmart employees in the 800 block of County Road E East fighting in the men’s bathroom. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies issued a citation for theft March 19 to a 63-year-old St. Paul man after he was caught by employees at a business in the 800 block of County Road E East attempting to leave the store without paying for merchandise.

• Deputies responded March 20 to a report of a hit-and-run crash in the 1100 block of County Road

the neighbor’s camera.

• Deputies responded to a Wildwood Road address on March 19 about a child stuck inside a locked vehicle. They were able to unlock the vehicle.

• A motorist on Lincolntown Avenue at Long Lake Road was cited for speeding March 19.

• Deputies responded to a driving complaint from Stillwater Road and Hilton Trail N. at 9:23 p.m. March 19 related to a vehicle headed toward Stillwater. They intercepted the vehicle with the help of other officers on Highway 36 and St. Croix Trail N. in Oak Park Heights.

• On March 20, deputies assisted the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) SWAT Tactical Team at the apartment complex at 830 Wildwood Road and apprehended a suspect with a SWAT warrant.

• An unidentified female was arrested at 10:57 a.m. March 20 on Wildwood Road for disorderly conduct and for making terroristic threats, after she cursed and used racial slurs toward deputies in a public area near the grocery store while people were present. While MPD officers were nearby executing a SWAT warrant, she told MPD officers and deputies that she was going to kill them. She later proclaimed that she was still going to kill them and pointed her crutch like a weapon at deputies.

• A group of juveniles playing some early ding-dongditch on Salem Place March 20 were encountered by deputies, who told them to go home and nip this activity in the bud while it was still spring.

• A pair of motorized bike (e-moto) riders were each cited March 20 on Hickory Street for operating the unregistered bikes on a public roadway without a permit.

E East, after a Mazda 6 owned by a 23-year-old St. Paul woman was struck and damaged by a black sports utility vehicle, which then was driven away from the scene before any information was exchanged. The incident is under investigation.

• Deputies arrested a 37-year-old man March 20 in the 400 block of Walker Drive for making threats of violence after he told his mother he would damage her vehicle with a tire iron and threatened her, too.

• Deputies arrested and cited a 35-year-old man and a 35-yearold woman in the 100 block of Woodridge Drive on March 21 for fifth-degree assault, disorderly conduct and domestic assault after they struck one another during an argument, leaving both with injuries.

• A 27-year-old Pine City man reported March 21 that someone damaged the gas tank on his Ford Explorer, which was leaking gasoline all over the street in the 1100 block of County Road D East. The incident is under investigation.

White Bear Township

• Deputies cited a 48-year-old woman from New Brighton March 16 for theft after she was caught by staff at a business in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive attempting to leave the store without paying for $66 worth of merchandise.

• Deputies responded March 18 to a report of suspicious activity in the 1 block of Bald Eagle Lake and located a 34-year-old Hugo man on private property. He was advised that he cannot be on the property and would be cited for trespassing if he returned.

Deputies cited a 43-year-old North Oaks man for theft March 19 after he was caught by employees at a grocery store in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive attempting to leave the store without paying for approximately $63 worth of merchandise.

• Deputies responded to a disturbance involving people arguing on Wildwood Road at 5:21 a.m. March 21. After speaking with one of the individuals, deputies were told it was verbal only. They advised all parties to separate for the rest of the day.

A resident of a multifamily dwelling on Mahtomedi Avenue on March 21 reported other residents for smoking marijuana in the building. The complainant brought deputies onto the elevator and into the hallways of the building where they could smell the odor of marijuana. Deputies advised the complainant that the marijuana smoking was a civil issue between him and management.

Pine Springs

• Deputies on routine patrol on westbound Highway 36 at I-694 at 11:45 p.m. March 20 observed a female in dark clothing walking along the shoulder. After she told deputies she was trying to get to St. Paul, they gave her a courtesy ride to the nearest bus stop so that she didn’t have to walk such a long way to her destination.

• A Minnesota motorist was issued a verbal warning about keeping his speed down at 12:15 a.m. March 21 on eastbound Highway 36, after deputies on stationary patrol observed the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. Radar showed the vehicle speed to be 76 mph in a 60 mph zone. During the traffic stop, the driver told deputies he was the sober cab. The rear passenger was not wearing her seat belt and was verbally warned about that offense after being identified by her Minnesota personal identification.

7 Brew donates $17,500 to Gillette Children’s

7 Brew, the new drive-thru beverage brand located at 935 East County Road E in Vadnais Heights, recently presented a $17,500 check to Gillette Children’s during its ribboncutting ceremony. The funds were raised through Caffeine for a Cause.

“We are thrilled to bring 7 Brew to the Twin Cities with such a successful opening of the new Vadnais Heights stand,” said Tim Chaffin, franchisee of 7 Brew Vadnais Heights.

White Bear Police Department receives Pathways to Policing Grant

The police department has received a nearly $70,000 Pathways to Policing Grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS). The program was created to assist law enforcement agencies in recruiting nontraditional candidates by offsetting costs associated with education, wages, benefits and training required to become a licensed peace officer.

Ramsey County releases aged photo of Nathan Edberg

On the heels of the Vadnais Heights’ opening, 7 Brew also has three more stands currently in development including in Maplewood, Minnetonka and Apple Valley. 7 Brew also

“Supporting Gillette Children’s and their amazing work is an important way for us to give back and is part of what makes Vadnais Heights such a special place.”

recently announced plans for six more stands including Andover, Coon Rapids, Plymouth, Oak Park Heights and two in Lakeville. Marketwide expansion plans call for more than 60 stands to open by 2030.

The city was originally awarded $75,000, with a subsequent amendment increasing the total funding. DPS has now issued a second amendment to the grant agreement, which reflects the following changes:

• Reduction of $31,166.34 due to grant funds that expired on June 30, 2025, and were not utilized.

• Extension of the grant term from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.

• Updated total grant award of $68,833.66, with a required local match in the same amount.

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) is once again asking for help to locate Nathan Edberg, of Vadnais Heights, who disappeared on April 14, 1999, at the age of 21 after he went out for a beer at a bar in White Bear Lake. (See “Searching for Nathan Edberg: 25 years later,” White Bear Press, May 8, 2024.)

21.5-hp (16.0-kW)* iTorque™ Power System 42-in. Accel™ Deep Deck, compatible with optional MulchControl™ kit with one-touch technology Twin Touch™ forward and reverse foot pedals 4 year/300 hour bumper-to-bumper warranty

The extension allows the police department to continue supporting a current cadet who is actively completing their training and is expected to finish this spring. The required local match continues to be supported through previously identified funding sources, including Public Safety Local Government Aid (LGA) and the police department operating budget.

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Have an event? Email it to calendar@presspubs.com

“We’ve looked for him. His family has looked for him. The community has looked for him. None of us have forgotten about him,” the RCSO wrote in a statement. “We know there’s a chance he’s still out there. Or someone at least knows … something.” If anyone from the community has information about Edberg’s whereabouts or recognizes the newly released age-progressed photo, they should contact the RCSO at 651-266-7320.

CONTRIBUTED

7 Brew in Vadnais Heights presents a check to Gillette Children’s at a ribbon cutting.

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office released this age-processed photo (left) of Nathan Edberg.

NAMES IN THE NEWS

Eric Sanft, a 2008 White Bear Lake High School grad, recently accepted a new position with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). After high school, Sanft attended college at the University of Minnesota and graduate school at the University of Illinois, focusing on fisheries science and management.

At the beginning of this year, Sanft began a new position in the agency as an aquatic plant management (APM) specialist, where he manages the APM permitting program for a 14-county area, including the greater metropolitan area and the counties to the south.

Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher recently announced that Butch Inks, who most recently served as the fire chief for the city of Saint Paul, has joined the sheriff’s office as director of strategic initiatives and projects. As the newest member of the leadership team, Inks will lead strategic initiatives and projects as well as advance partnership development across the county. His initial work will focus on health care and medical protocols in the

Adult Detention Center, emergency management, government relations and law enforcement employee wellness.

From 1994 to 2025, Inks served with the Saint Paul Fire Department. Over the course of his career, he held roles including firefighter, fire equipment operator, rescue squad captain, district chief and chief (2018 to 2025).

In addition to his local government service, Inks served in the United States Air Force Reserve as a Master Sergeant until his honorable discharge in 2012.

“Chief Inks brings an extraordinary record of service, leadership and community partnership to the sheriff’s office. His decades of experience in high‐risk operations, emergency management and organizational leadership will significantly strengthen our ability to serve residents across Ramsey County,” Fletcher said. “We are fortunate to have someone of his caliber join our leadership team, and I look forward to the impact he will make on our strategic initiatives and partnerships.”

White Bear Township resident Paul Chapin has received an Award of Distinction along with four other individuals from the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation. Chapin was honored at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on April 11 in Winter Haven, Florida.

The Award of Distinction was created to recognize many individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the sport. They may include tournament skiers, innovators, industry leaders, officials and others responsible for landmark achievements in the development of water skiing as well as those whose long periods of dedicated and generous service deserve special recognition.

Chapin received the award for his many contributions and accomplishments from over 60 years in the sport. Since 1963 he has competed in more than 50 Nationals in all age divisions, plus Open, with numerous top five placements since 1970 in all three events. In addition, since 2003, Chapin has served the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports Foundation as a trustee and past president. For more information, visit www.usa-wwf.org/2026-hall-of-fame.

facilities, and add transit stop infrastructure. Along that route, motorists should expect to see a new traffic signal, turn lane improvements and transit improvements at the intersection of County Road D/ Long Lake Road. At the access to Century College South Campus at the southernmost property line of the college, expect to see a roundabout. At the Middle Campus where the pedestrian bridge is located, look for a new traffic signal, improved at-grade pedestrian crossings and transit

improvements. There will be a new signal at the north campus on Woodland Drive and a roundabout with transit improvements at the intersection of County Road E/Wildwood Road.

Following a presentation from Erin Blaylock, civil engineer for Washington County, council asked for the first phase to be pushed back to 2028. The first year of the project will include improvements at the intersection of Long Lake Road/ County Road D; a Century

College middle access; stormwater ponding measures; and private utility relocation. Also during that first year of work, the south driveway of the strip mall on the southeast corner of Long Lake Road and Century Avenue will be reconfigured for right turns in and out only. A center median on Long Lake Road will prevent left turns either in or out of the strip mall. Any center median along the new Century Avenue corridor will also

prevent left turns in or out of the strip mall from its western driveway.

The second year of the project will involve total reconstruction along the entire length of Century Avenue.

“Washington County is not against moving the Long Lake Road improvements to 2028,” Blaylock said.

“If we wait until 2028 and do the side streets, it will be minimal,” said Mahtomedi City Engineer Nick Guilliams. “We can get Mahtomedi done and hit

hard in 2028 and finish up in 2029.”

The two major road projects scheduled for the next couple of years are the result of turnback efforts on the part of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and Washington County.

MnDOT is turning ownership of Highway 120 over to Washington County, and ownership of Highway 244 to the city of Mahtomedi.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@ presspubs.com.

Butch Inks

Eric Sanft

CONTRIBUTED

Chapin is one of only four Minnesotans to have received an Award of Distinction.

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:

Resolve House

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

3371 Glen Oaks Ave, 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.

Ramses Byron

3371 Glen Oaks Ave, 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: April 1, 2026

Signed: Ramses Byron

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 15 and 22, 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:

Bonnie’s Unreal Arrangements

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

2415 Spruce Place, 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.

Bonnie Jean Martin

2415 Spruce Place, White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Dated: April 1, 2026

Signed: Bonnie Martin

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 15 and 22, 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:

TIMOTHY ADRIAN WHITE JR

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

332 MINNESOTA ST STE N201 SAINT 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.

Timothy Adrian White Jr 1417 MACFARLAND ST FAIRBANKS AK 99709

Dated: April 5, 2026

Signed: Timothy Adrian White Jr

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 15 and 22, 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: Cannabis Heaven

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 947 Arcade Street, Saint Paul, MN 55106

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.

Little Buzzed, LLC

947 Arcade Street, Saint Paul, MN 55106

Dated: March 9, 2026

Signed: Ally Schmitz

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 15 and 22, 2026.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE

CERTIFICATE OF AMENDED ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes, the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Willows of Ramsey Hill

2. The address of the principal place of business is or will be: 80 Mackubin Street, St. Paul, MN 55102

3. The name and address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name.

Episcopal Homes of Minnesota

490 East Lynnhurst Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55104

4. This certificate is an amendment of Certificate of Assumed Name number 1122445200026 currently on file with the Secretary of State.

Dated: April 2, 2026

Signed: John Thomas Henry, Chief Executive Officer and President Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 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: RRG Streaming Box & More

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

1244

Dated: March 23, 2026

Signed: Richard Ross Geisthardt - Sole Proprietor

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 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: Great American Home Warranty

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

3355 W. Alabama Street, Suite 1200A, Houston, TX 77098

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.

Marathon Administrative Co., Inc.

3355 W. Alabama Street, Suite 1200A, Houston, TX 77098

Dated: February 25, 2026

Signed: John B Bryan

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 2026. INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

MINUTES MARCH 2, 2026

Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.

A meeting of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Boardroom 200 at the Sunrise Park District Service Center, 2399 Cedar Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1. Chair Arcand called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2. Roll Call

- Present: Skaar, Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed, Daniels, Ellison. Absent: none. Ex-Officio: Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak. 3. Pledge of Allegiance. 4. Thompson moved and Ellison seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 5. Daniels moved and Thompson seconded to approve the consent agenda consisting of: a. Minutes for Board meeting on February 9, 2026 and February 23, 2026; b. Monthly invoices, all of which met the standards and guidelines as set by the School Board; c. Resolution regarding acceptance of gifts with thank you letters directed to the donors; d. Field trips; and e. Resolution regarding personnel items. Skaar moved and Beloyed seconded to amend the motion “BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of Independent School District No. 624 that Consent Agenda items, A-5a through A-5e, be approved as written, and a copy of the agenda items is attached to the minutes” to “BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of Independent School District No. 624 that Consent Agenda items, A-5a through A-5e, be approved as written, and a copy of the agenda items is attached to the minutes as recommended by the superintendent.” Amendment roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Consent agenda roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. PUBLIC FORUM - Rebekah Bradfield. INFORMATION ITEMS 1. Student RecognitionStudents who earned state honors were recognized and congratulated. 2. Superintendent’s Report - Dr. Kazmierczak highlighted several news items in the White Bear Lake Area School District. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Immersion Programming Update 2. Presentation of Presale Report Related to Upcoming Issuance of Facilities Maintenance and Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A 3. First Reading of School Board Policies: a. 211, b. 212, and c. 809. The policies listed above will be on the April 13, 2026 agenda or subsequent agenda for a second reading. OPERATIONAL ITEMS 1. Streiff Oji moved and Thompson seconded to approve the action on 2026-2029 Achievement and Integration Plan. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 2. Daniels moved and Ellison seconded to approve the action on 10-Year Long Term Facility Maintenance Plan. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 3. Beloyed moved and Ellison seconded to approve the action on Resolution of Intent to Issue General Obligation Facilities Maintenance and Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. 4. Ellison moved and Streiff Oji seconded to approve the action on School Board Policies: a. 101, b. 101.1, c. 103, d. 203.6. Skaar moved to amend the motion. There was no second. Ellison called the question Beloyed seconded. Call the question vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Policy Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, Skaar. Motion carried. BOARD FORUM ADJOURNMENT Ellison moved and Thompson seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:53 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Kathleen Daniels, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 22, 2026.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MN 55110

MINUTES MARCH 23, 2026

Abbreviated Minutes-complete information available from the Superintendent’s office or online at www.isd624.org.

A work session of the White Bear Lake Area School Board was held on Monday, March 23, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Boardroom 200 at the District Service Center at Sunrise Park, 2399 Cedar Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN. This meeting was open to the public and a recording is posted on the website. PROCEDURAL ITEMS 1. Call to Order - Chair Arcand called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. 2. Roll Call - Present: Streiff Oji, Thompson, Arcand, Beloyed, Daniels, Ellison, Skaar. Absent: none. DISCUSSION ITEMS 1. Vadnais Heights Elementary Update 2. Building Our Future & Facilities Update OPERATIONAL ITEMS 1. Thompson moved and Beloyed seconded to approve the action on Bid for Sunrise Park and White Bear Lake Area High School Parking Lot Additions in the amount of $1,524,000. Roll call vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. LABOR NEGOTIATIONS This portion of the meeting may be closed to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to Minn. Stat. 179A.01 to 179A.25. Streiff Oji moved and Ellison seconded to go into closed session at 7:47 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all, Skaar. Nays, none. Motion carried. Beloyed moved and Thompson seconded to go into open session at 8:02 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. ADJOURNMENT Ellison moved and Daniels seconded to adjourn the meeting at 8:03 p.m. Voice vote: Ayes, all. Nays, none. Motion carried. Submitted by: Kathleen Daniels, clerk. Published one time in the White Bear Press on April 22, 2026.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 832

MAHTOMEDI PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Mahtomedi Public Schools, Independent School District 832, is soliciting bids for the Mahtomedi Public Schools Phase 1A Projects. Bids for all trade packages will be received from pre-qualified bidders on April 28th, 2026 by 2:00 PM at Knutson construction 7515 Wayzata Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55426. Bids may be received by hard copy or email & must be received prior to 2:00 PM on April 28th, 2026. Email Bids to mplsbids@knutsonconstruction.com

The Mahtomedi Public Schools Phase 1A Projects consists of the interior remodel of four buildings. OH Anderson, Wildwood Elementary, Mahtomedi High School, and The District Education Center. This includes minor demo, & finish work, new openings/doors, low voltage security adds, wheelchair lifts, & minor MEP relocation work needed.

Direct questions regarding this project to the office of the construction manager: Knutson Construction 7515 Wayzata Boulevard Minneapolis, Minnesota 55426

Main Office: 763-546-1400

Website: www.knutsonconstruction.com

Email - jpeterson@knutsonconstruction.com

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 15 and 22, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of White Bear will receive sealed Bids for the construction of the Anderlie Lane Area Street Improvements project, consisting of the following: 5000 TONS Bituminous Paving 1400 LIN FT RC Storm Sewer Pipe 19000 SQ YD Full Depth Reclamation 630 CU YD Storm Pond Excavation

1500 CU YD Subgrade Correction

18 EACH Furnish & Install Gate Valve & Box

10000 LIN FT Concrete Curb and Gutter

2 EACH Furnish & Install Hydrant 20 EACH Drainage Structure

1000 LIN FT Clean & Televise Storm Sewer

Bloomington, MN 55425. Complete digital Proposal Forms, Plans, and Specifications for use by Contractors submitting a bid are available at www.questcdn.com. You may

the

for a

fee of $25 by

Quest Project No. 10104464 on the website’s Project Search page. Please contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information.

Every bidder must apply to the Town Clerk at 1281 Hammond Road, Town of White Bear, for a Permit before conducting any subsurface investigation and such bidder shall be responsible to check with the utility companies concerning the location of any buried utility services.

Bids will be received by the Town of White Bear until 10:00am, Wednesday May 13, 2026. For this solicitation, bids will ONLY be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN.com for an additional bidding fee of $30. Download the bid documents and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement to access the electronic bid qualifications and bid worksheet. Bids will be electronically opened and publicly read aloud by representatives of the Town of White Bear.

Each bid must be accompanied by a bid bond or cashier’s check payable to White Bear Township in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid as a guarantee that the bidder, if successful, will enter into a contract with the Owner for the work described in the proposal. This deposit will be subject to forfeiture as provided by law. The deposits for the three lowest bidders will be retained by the Owner until the contract has been awarded and executed but not longer than sixty (60) days. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days following the bid opening.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive informalities or to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, in the best interest of the Owner.

The Town Board will consider award of contracts at a regular meeting to be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, beginning at 7:00pm.

Patrick Christopherson, Town Clerk

Dated: April 20, 2026

Published to Questcdn.com on April 22, 2026

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 22 and 29, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of White Bear will receive sealed Bids for the construction of the Bloom Addition Area Street Improvements project, consisting of the following:

1300 Tons Bituminous Paving

12000 SY Mill Bituminous Surface

2500 LF Remove and Replace Concrete Curb and Gutter

11 Each Locate Gate Valve and Replace Valve Box

4 Each Remove and Replace Gate Valve 1230 CY Storm Pond Excavation

Bid forms, contract documents, drawings and specifications as prepared by TKDA, are on file for inspection in the office of the Town Clerk and in the office of the Engineers, whose address is 3311 E Old Shakopee Rd, Suite 300, Bloomington, MN 55425. Complete digital Proposal Forms, Plans, and Specifications for use by Contractors submitting a bid are available at www.questcdn.com. You may download the digital plan documents for a non-refundable fee of $25 by inputting Quest Project No. 10104469 on the website’s Project Search page. Please contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information.

Contractors desiring drawings, specifications, and related documents for the purpose of submitting a bid may secure them from the Engineers upon a non-refundable payment of $50 for each set. Mail orders for Drawings and Specifications, and orders for Drawings and Specifications will not be taken by the Town. Every bidder must apply to the Town Clerk at 1281 Hammond Road, Town of White Bear, for a Permit before conducting any subsurface investigation and such bidder shall be responsible to check with the utility companies concerning the location of any buried utility services.

Bids will be received by the Town of White Bear until 10:30am, Wednesday, May 13, 2026. For this solicitation, bids will ONLY be received and accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN.com for an additional bidding fee of $30. Download the bid documents and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement to access the electronic bid qualifications and bid worksheet. Bids will be electronically opened and publicly read aloud by representatives of the Town of White Bear. Each bid must be accompanied by a bid bond or cashier’s check payable to White Bear Township in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid as a guarantee that the bidder, if successful, will enter into a contract with the Owner for the work described in the proposal. This deposit will be subject to forfeiture as provided by law. The deposits for the three lowest bidders will be retained by the Owner until the contract has been awarded and executed but not longer than sixty (60) days. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days following the bid opening.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive informalities or to award the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, in the best interest of the Owner.

The Town Board will consider award of contracts at a regular meeting to be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, beginning at 7:00pm.

Patrick Christopherson, Town Clerk

Dated: April 20, 2026 Published to Questcdn.com on April 22, 2026.

White Bear Lake fire call volume increases by 7%

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

WHITE BEAR LAKE — For a couple of years, the fire department’s call volume was trending slightly downward, but that wasn’t the case in 2025.

“I anticipated that it would go up over the course of time. I didn’t think that trend of downward call volume was going to sustain itself, and it didn’t,” Chief Greg Peterson said.

Call volume on the rise

At the chief’s update in the fall, the call volume increase was trending at about 9%, but that has dropped slightly to approximately 7%. In 2025, the White Bear Lake Fire Department responded to 5,112 calls; it responded to 4,784 in 2024.

Peterson attributes the increase to several reasons, including two significant storms that rolled through the area. Neighboring fire departments’ call volumes also increased, which drove up responses. “We have more and more mutual aid partners that we work with, and they were unusually busy last year, so we went to a lot of their calls.”

The fire department provided mutual aid on 43 fire calls and received mutual aid on 24 calls in 2025. For EMS, the department helped on 142 calls and received assistance on 27 calls in 2025.

Peterson noted that the city’s department used to receive more aid than it provided, but that’s not the case anymore. “We continue to do more helping out our neighbors, more than we receive ourselves. We can’t be partners and not partners at the same time, so there is no easy fix to this …” he said. “We are sitting in a pretty good spot right now. It isn’t overbearing. Having our own EMS agency is very beneficial because the other private agencies might be bigger than us, but they are having a hard time covering their own responsibilities. We are fortunate to have what we have.”

When it comes to the types of calls in 2025, 72% were medical and 28% were fire/rescue, which is a common split from year to year. The top five EMS calls are sick person, falls, breathing problem, psychiatric problem and unconsciousness.

In 2025, most of the calls were within the city of White Bear Lake at 3,757, followed by White Bear Township with 884, Dellwood with 79, Gem Lake with 59 and Birchwood 29.

White Bear Lake hosts several Earth Day events

The city of White Bear Lake has three events in the works in honor of Earth Day. The first two will take place on Saturday, April 25. The city will host a Trash to Treasure Day, which is an eco-friendly event designed to promote reuse and waste reduction. Residents of the city of White Bear Lake and White Bear Township can place reusable items they no longer want at the end of their driveways that day. Treasure seekers can pick up these items for free any time that day.

White Bear Lake Rotary Club volunteers will plant native trees and shrubs at Rotary Nature Preserve as part of an Arbor Day event on April 25. The planting will take place within a woodland restoration area to increase the diversity of native species after the removal of invasive

In 2025, the White Bear Lake Fire Department responded to 5,112 calls, compared to 4,785 calls in 2024.

Response time holds steady

The fire department’s coverage area spans 35 square miles and covers a population of approximately 40,000. In 2025, most of the calls were within the city of White Bear Lake at 3,757, followed by White Bear Township with 884, Dellwood with 79, Gem Lake with 59 and Birchwood 29. In 2025, the average response time was 6 minutes and 26 seconds.

“That is pretty darn good. I don’t know how much more we are going to be able to drive that down without adding a fire station or two,” Peterson said. “I’m happy with that. I think that is a pretty good number.”

Council Member Kevin Edberg asked about the quickest response time versus the slowest response time and wanted to know about how the city of White Bear Lake compares to other departments in the state. Peterson explained that the quickest response time is within a few minutes and the longest is about 9 or 10 minutes. He pointed out that there is a small piece of Dellwood that can take a while to access, as well as a small piece of the township near North Oaks that can take a while to get to.

“I would say it (response time) is very good. Are there other departments that are faster? Yes, those are typically larger departments with more staffing, more stations and they are more integrated throughout their entire response area,” he explained. “I’ m pleased with what we have. I think it is pretty good.”

As a new data point for 2025, Peterson pointed out the incidence of overlapping calls, or the percentage of times when the department is on more than one call at a time. Approximately 47% of the time the department was on two calls; about 16% of the time, the department had three calls going on.

City Council Member Andrea West wanted to know what percentage of the department’s time is spent on “downtime” and waiting for the next call to come in. Peterson said approximately 30% of the time. “It is kind of the nature of the business where sometimes we will be sitting around wondering when the next call is going to come in, and then all of a sudden there it is,” he said.

“Unfortunately, emergencies and when people call 911 is not scheduled, so we have to be reactive, available and ready to respond whenever that happens.”

Other trends

The department keeps track of cardiac arrest data each year. Peterson pointed out that the national survival rate is 9.2%, and for 2025, White Bear Lake had a survival rate of 29.2%. “That is fantastic. The level of care and our ability to respond really make a huge

72% of the department’s calls were medical and 28% were fire/rescue in 2025. Fire Chief Greg Peterson says it is a common split from year to year.

difference,” Peterson said, adding that one of the reasons that percentage is so high is thanks to people in the community who know how to do CPR and helped until EMS arrived on scene.

A trend that is rather frightening is the number of fire deaths in the state. Peterson said he recently spoke to the state fire marshal, who pointed out there is already at a “high rate of deaths” throughout the state for 2026. “We are scratching our heads on how we are going to get the message out to try to stop this trend,” Peterson said. “I think one of the ways is to be very direct with everybody.”

Peterson showed the council a couple of screenshots of a video that demonstrates how fast a fire can burn in a typical room with modern furnishings. One screenshot was from two minutes in, and another was one minute and 40 seconds later.

“Now, if you imagine you were standing up and you were taking in some of that smoke and you’re coughing, you’re disoriented … That is pretty frightening. I don’t mean to scare everybody; I just want people to be aware,” he said.

Edberg questioned what could be done, if anything, to help these fires from spreading so quickly. Peterson noted that sprinklers have been proven to save lives, but they can be cost-prohibitive.

“All of us want more for less, and then manufacturers figure out how to do that, but it is also at the cost of things being lethal,” Peterson explained. He pointed out that today, many clothes and furniture items are made with petroleum products, which burn quickly. Even the design of homes today is not conducive to controlling the spread of fire.

“Old homes had cotton, wool … that is not what we have in homes anymore. That’s just where we are at as a society, and we are seeing the end result of that,” Peterson said. “Open concept, open design. It looks nice, it’s very pleasing to many people, but it causes issues because now the whole space is open, there is no compartmentalization … I think we can educate people more on that. I don’t know if they are going to change their behaviors because of that because, unfortunately, a lot of people think it is never going to happen to me.”

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

Amur maple.

On May 2, the city will host its annual spring cleanup day for city residents to conveniently dispose of furniture, electronics and hard-torecycle items.

Alchemist granted liquor license for new ownership

Ryan Podewils, on behalf of Stella & JoJo’s LLC, has applied for on-sale and Sunday liquor licenses for The Alchemist, located at 2222 Fourth Street in White Bear Lake. Podewils is taking over ownership of the establishment, which was previously owned by Terry Kellerman.

A background check by the police department found nothing to preclude issuance of the license to the applicant. The council granted the license, which will be valid through

March 31, 2027. Podewils will continue allowing charitable gambling onsite with Merrick Inc. There is no approval needed for the charitable gambling license, which is issued by the Gambling Control Board (GCB), because the license is with the property and not the owner. Paperwork will be submitted to GCB to inform them of the change in business ownership.

White Bear Lake to host annual SWPPP public hearing

The City Council will conduct a public hearing at its May 12 meeting for the city’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP). The city maintains a SWPPP, which is required by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) for its municipal separate storm sewer

system (MS4) general permit. The goal of the SWPPP is to improve the quality of the stormwater runoff discharged from the city’s storm sewer system. The SWPPP describes how the city proposes to accomplish improved stormwater quality through implementation of six minimum control measures that are required by the MPCA.

Although the public hearing is no longer a specific requirement of the MS4 permit, it provides an opportunity for city staff to educate the council and the public about the SWPPP and provide feedback. At the public hearing, city staff will present an overview of the SWPPP and activities that were undertaken in 2025. The public will also be invited to weigh in. After the hearing, the city’s engineering department will prepare the final report before submitting it to the MPCA.

CITY BRIEFS

Making arrangements for a funeral?

Remember to ask your funeral home to send us the obituary notice and we can get it published in our local newspapers and online for friends and families to see.

OBITUARIES

Pamela LaBelle

67, passed away Feb. 15, 2026 at her home in Mesquite, NV. She was born Jan. 13, 1959, in St. Paul, MN to George and Eileen Kohn (Rogers). She is survived by her spouse, William LaBelle; children, Nicholis Kohn and Zachary LaBelle; sisters, Deb Kapaun, Sheila Klietz, and Janice Miller; brothers, Brian Kohn and Vincent Kohn. Celebration of Life will be held at 5pm Thursday, April 30, 2026 at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake, MN, with visitation starting at 3pm. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944 www.muellermemorial.com

David Charles Anderson

79, Lindstrom MN, passed away on April 8, 2026. A celebration of Dave’s life 11 AM Thursday, April 23rd with visitation beginning at 10 AM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. RobertsFamilyFH.com 651-464-4422

To submit an obituary

Call: 651-407-1250

Email: obits@presspubs.com

Visit: 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN

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Above: A sculpture made of recycled material by Jo Treuenfels titled “Hound” is among

written submissions currently on display in the Ford Family Gallery

exhibition hall at the White Bear Center for the Arts.

At right: An acrylic painting by Camille Hirsch titled “From Sunrise to Sunset” received Best of Show honors from the judges.

Above:

At left: Siblings Louise and Ethan Fehrman pose for a photo in the gallery. The “Vision & Verse: High School Visual Art and Writing Exhibiton” is on display through May 15.

Mahtomedi graduate publishes debut novel inspired by parents’ romance

A Pine Springs native with roots in the Mahtomedi community has turned a deeply personal story into her first published work. In “Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story,” the Lisa Boatman captures her parents’ decades-long relationship — from a memorable first date to a 60-year marriage — offering a reflection on love, commitment and how relationships have evolved over time. Now living in Libson, Portugal, the 1988 Mahtomedi High School grad shares how her upbringing, career journey and family history inspired the book, along with what she hopes readers will take away from the tribute to her parents, Howard and Karen Boatman, who still reside in Pine Springs.

Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Is this your first published work?

A. My family moved to Pine Springs from Washington, D.C., in 1985. I graduated from Mahtomedi High School in 1988, then attended Southwest Minnesota State in Marshall and Huron University in South Dakota. My career took some unexpected plot twists — including dealing blackjack at Grand Casino Hinckley and owning a liquor store in Mississippi. In 2007, I returned to Minnesota and served as a firefighter for Columbia Heights. In 2022, I began a new chapter as an English teacher, tour guide and author in Europe. “Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story” is my first published book.

Q. What inspired you to write ‘Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story?’

A. Growing up, I always loved hearing my parents’ love story — how they met, how they admired each other from afar, and how my father tracked down a Ford Model A with a rumble seat for their very first

date. He was determined to make the evening memorable. In early 2025, when it became clear I wouldn’t be able to travel home for their 60th wedding anniversary, I decided to do something meaningful, too — I started writing their love story. I kept the project completely secret. They had no idea. The original plan was to reveal the book at their anniversary party — but my parents opted for a quiet celebration instead. A close friend stopped by their house to do the reveal while I watched via video call from Lisbon. They captured the moment on video, too.

Q. How did growing up in Pine Springs and the Mahtomedi community shape your perspective on family and relationships?

A. Family runs deep in the Mahtomedi community. Even though I only joined the district for high school, most of my classmates had grown up together since Wildwood Elementary. That sense of deep-rooted connection stayed with me and shaped how I understand family and loyalty. It’s no surprise that so many of those classmates still live in the area today.

Q. What do you think is the secret to their 60-year marriage?

A. Howard and Karen share a strong personal foundation — self-awareness, a caring nature, respect for others, responsibility, unwavering commitment, patience and the ability to compromise. At its core, love is a leap of faith built on the trust that your partner will be there when you need them most. Like every couple, they’ve had their share of problems. But that shared foundation is what carries them through.

Q. Were there any moments in their story that surprised you while writing the book?

A. What struck me most was how certain they both were from the very first date. Karen and Howard came from com-

pletely opposite worlds — different upbringings, different states, and even on campus, they moved in entirely separate social bubbles. He was going to take over the family farm after graduation, and she was a city girl with dreams of living in the big city. Yet from that first date, they each knew they had found the person they wanted to spend their life with. No hesitation, no second-guessing.

Karen felt the moment was when they were watching “Dr. Zhivago” at the movie theater. Unlike the other guys on campus, Howard was sincere, and he genuinely understood her. Sitting beside him in the dark, his arm around her, she felt something unexpected: safe, warm and comfortable. Like slipping on a favorite sweater on a cold January day — it just fit.

Howard knew that, as a farmer, he was unlikely to impress one of the most sought-after girls on campus with a typical dinner and a movie. He had to make the date unique. I think for him, he always knew she was the one.

From that moment on, their lives were not about “I” but about “us.”

Q. How did your parents react when they first read the memoir?

A. My mom devoured every page. My dad appreciated the detailed portrayal of his 1950s childhood on the farm in Lake City, Iowa, as well as the story of their first

date. That said, I did take some creative liberties for dramatic effect. While both Karen and Howard did experience difficult family dynamics growing up, they felt I portrayed those moments a bit too harshly. For that reason, the book’s preface notes that it is based on a true story — not every detail is historically accurate.

Q. What do you hope readers take away from their love story?

A. In an age of instant gratification and dating apps, we’ve reduced romance to a left or right swipe. Howard and Karen’s 1960s love story is both uniquely theirs and universally relatable — yet its lessons feel timeless. Lasting relationships are built on self-love, honesty, commitment and a willingness to take a leap of faith. Without those qualities from both partners, any relationship will eventually struggle.

Q. Your book contrasts 1960s romance with today’s dating culture. What differences stand out most to you?

A. Modern romance

Q&A with Howard and Karen Boatman

Q. How did you guys find out about your daughter’s book?

A. Howard: Well, very secretively. Our daughter, Lisa, called up and said, “Hey, you got somebody coming over to your house on your anniversary.” I said, “Who’s coming over?” “A friend of mine. He wants to give you something.” I said, “Well, okay. We’re not planning to do anything on our anniversary. We were just going to sit home. Take it easy.” Well, pretty soon someone comes over and he starts taking pictures with his camera … They recorded everything. It was chaos. Lisa was on the phone at the same time … They handed us the book.

Q. What did it mean to you that your daughter wrote a book about your love story?

A. Karen: We were just so appreciative that she would do something like that. Howard: We were flat-footed. We didn’t know what was going on. We had no idea whatsoever she was planning the book. I knew she was very disappointed that she couldn’t get away from work in Portugal to come home for our anniversary. This was going to be a little surprise for us because she couldn’t come. That’s all we knew about it … It was absolutely a total surprise. She kept it a secret from us. We knew she was writing some books, but we had no idea she was writing a book about us.

Q. What do you want people to know about your love story?

A. Howard: We are entirely different people. We were both on different glide paths for our careers and were obviously not interested in going with somebody from the other side. I was very much involved in farming, and she was going to school to be a professional. We had absolutely no interest in the other person at all whatsoever professionally.

She happened to be a very attractive lady, and I asked her for a date, and she turned me down and that made me mad. We met at a Halloween party at the end of October, and we had our first date on the second of May the following spring. I probably asked her out two dozen times during that period of time, but she always turned me down. Karen: It took a long time (to say yes).

tends to revolve around big moments — love at first sight, instant connection and grand cinematic moments. Howard and Karen's story had none of that. Their relationship grew quietly, without fanfare. They didn't need grand gestures to know they were right for each other. For example, most wives can tell you exactly how and where her husband proposed — the sights, the events, etc. When I asked Karen about the moment he proposed, she couldn’t remember. “It was in his Volkswagen Beetle, I think,” she said. Howard remembered more. “I proposed in my car outside Comstock Hall at the U of M,” he recalled. “And it was cold outside. That’s what I remember most.”

Q. Are you working on any future projects?

A. Yes! I’m currently working on a crime novel set in Portugal, following an American living abroad. I’m hoping to have it out this fall.

Q. Where can people find this book?

A. “Finding the One: A 1960s Love Story” is available on Amazon worldwide in paperback and Kindle. There is a link on my website at www.LisaBoatman.com. It is sold on all major digital platforms in the United States, including Barnes & Noble, Apple Books and Google Play Books.

Compiled by Shannon Granholm

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Howard and Karen Boatman have been married for 60 years.

Lisa Boatman

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from

96 as an expansion corridor but looking at opportunities for the corridor,” she explained. “Highway 96 is a very unique corridor in that it is windy, both side to side and up and down, which can often create a lot of blind spots.”

The study revealed that most of the safety concerns are primarily at intersections. The project team looked at existing crash data and considered “proactive improvements” to address potential future safety concerns. For example, the addition of turn lanes at blind spots along the corridor was evaluated.

In general, she says the community was supportive of exploring safety improvements. “The primary things that we heard from the public … is general support for exploring improvements; they were happy somebody is looking at this corridor,” she recalled. “Certainly, there were a lot of concerns for safety and traffic speeds; we hear that on most of our projects throughout the county.”

There was also a strong interest in improving pedestrian facilities, including crossings, but mixed feedback on what types of pedestrian facilities and as to whether there should be a separated trail. Highway 96, between White Bear Lake County Park and the Gateway State Trail, is identified as a future regional trail route in the Lake Links Trail Network Master Plan, which was developed and approved by Washington and Ramsey counties in 2001.

“Something that was very unique for this corridor study is that we heard loud and clear from the public that there is a value in balancing any roadway or bike/

pedestrian improvements with preserving the unique nature of the roadway,” Dahlheimer said. “I think people are interested in improvements, but we need to balance that specifically with how we may be impacting or changing the character of Highway 96.”

Recommendations

Whereas the first two open houses focused on gathering feedback from the public and identifying priorities, Dahlheimer says the third and final open house is designed to present the study’s recommendations, which are posted on the project’s website (see sidebar).

The study recommendations are broken into short-term, mid-term and long-term improvements for the portion of roadway east of Highway 244, and short-term and long-term improvements for the roadway west of Highway 244.

“I think overall, all of the partner agencies involved really view this study as a success. We have had a lot of great conversations with our partner agencies and the public to get a good understanding of what improvements we should be thinking about along this corridor,” Dahlheimer said.

“On the Washington County side, we feel strongly that this study has set us up for success in 2028, and we feel like the improvements are reflective of the comments we have heard. There is a lot of excitement from our side about this study and how this is setting us up for the future.”

In the short term, Washington County is in the final design phase for the Highway 5, 55 and 96 intersection improvement project. The county’s 2028 capital

White Bear Lake Area

improvement plan calls for a larger project, which is proposed to include pavement preservation and guardrail replacement, as well as intersection lighting and the addition of turn lanes at certain intersections and potential trail connections.

Mid-term improvements between Highway 244 and Apple Orchard Road could include pavement preservation, intersection improvements at Apple Orchard Road and a separated trail. Longterm improvements could include a trail feasibility assessment between Apple Orchard Road and the Gateway State Trail, additional intersection improvements and turn lanes as needs arise, as well as an intersection improvement at Highway 244.

West of Highway 244

The study recommends that Ramsey County construct a trail connection between White Bear Lake County Park and Pacific Avenue in 2026. MnDOT also has a pavement preservation project planned between Highway 244 and Highway 61 in 2031. The project is proposed to include a mill and overlay and address pedestrian intersections, ADA accommodations and some spot storm sewer and drainage improvements.

“The vision is asking for reconstruction of the roadway, because the county won’t accept a roadway turnback that is not reconstructed. Well, when you change a project from a preservation activity to roadway reconstruction, the dollar amount changes as well. We have to identify additional funding and resources …” explained MnDOT North Area Manager Dale

Gade. “It’s great that the study set that vision, but now the hard work begins.”

Gade added that some harder conversations will have to happen in terms of where the funding will come from and what each entity would be responsible for. The main challenge will be right of way. He described the right-of-way footprint as “uncertain,” especially within the White Bear Lake area of the project.

“So that leaves MnDOT to use what we term prescriptive rights, which means we only have the footprint for the current roadway that we are using today,” he said. “If there is a desire to expand the roadway for multimodal, i.e., a trail involved, then we have to reacquire the rights (and) justify the acquisition for those rights through those properties along the corridor. That means property taking; that’s where things get ugly.”

Typically, MnDOT does not invest in regional trails with trunk highway funds. The question then becomes who would be the entity to go through the right-of-way acquisition, which could be a long and expensive process.

“I love that we have a vision; I love that we are going to try to work towards that. The question is figuring out those pieces, and that is going to require some more conversations,” Gade said. “Like with any other study, I hope we move into having those tough conversations and figuring out how to get it to implementation.”

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

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E R V I C E D I

Living Colors Painting 612-394-8978

Richard, the owner of Living Colors Painting, was born in Marshall, MN. His family moved around quite a bit until they settled down in Woodbury, MN. It was there where he graduated high school and started his first painting job. Being passionate about art, painting came natural to him and was a way he could express his love for art with others. As a young adult, he moved around the United States and even spent 5 years in O’ahu, Hawaii painting. Then he moved back to Minnesota where he now lives in White Bear Lake. He has been painting for over 35 years and enjoys painting for local customers. He also loves pets, particularly dogs and cats, and has been known to bring treats along with him to jobs. In his free time, he loves to hike, travel to Hawaii, garden, and collect rocks and crystals.

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SP TTED

1. A mysterious tree showed up on White Bear Lake near VFW Post 1782. Boaters secured the tree to a hidden pole in the water to mark its presence and keep boaters safe. — Terry Honsa, contributed

2. Brian McGoldrick, owner of Admiral D’s, threw the first pitch at a Minnesota Twins Game’s last week. McGoldrick is a longstanding season ticket holder. — Billy McLaughlin, contributed

3. The White Bear Lake School District Superintendent Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak spoke at the White Bear Lake Retired Teachers meeting this month. The group of retired White Bear Lake teachers, which meets once a month, enjoys learning about current school district news. — Connie Stirling, contributed

4. The White Bear Lake Rotary Club recently hosted its first chili cookoff. During the event, the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society hosted a trivia contest.

— Contributed

5. The city of White Bear Lake recently placed a group of new and improved skids on the shoreline near the boat landing at Matoska Park. — Paul Dols | Press Publications

6. White Bear Lake resident Dave Schad taps trees on Fourth and Fifth Streets and Johnson Avenue near Lake Avenue. — Carter Johnson, Press Publications

7. Melissa Telsrow, Bridget Cavanagh and Katie Philippi took a cold plunge on a hot day in Bald Eagle Lake April 16. — Catherine Ellefson, contributed

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Pederson, Oklahoma NCAA champions again

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake gymnast Lily Pederson is now 2-for-2 in collecting national championships with the University of Oklahoma.

The 4-foot-10 sophomore turned in crucial vault and floor exercise scores to help the Sooners repeat as champion with 198.1625 points, just ahead of Louisiana State’s 198.075, on Saturday at Fort Worth. Also in the final four were Florida (197.6875) and the Minnesota Gophers (197.3750).

Oklahoma trailed by .075 points entering the final event, floor exercise. Pederson, up second, earned a 9.9375 score, and the final three also topped 9.90 to squeeze out the championship.

"We've been really prepared for this," Pederson said, in a Soonersports. com account. "In the moment, you have to go

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS

SOFTBALL

big or go home and holding back is just going to make it worse.”

Pederson also anchored Oklahoma’s vaulting quintet and exploded for a nearperfect 9.9875 for her Yurchencko 1.5 twist. Oklahoma, coached by KJ Kindler, has won four of the last five

Forest Lake senior ace Avery Muellner fired a three-hit shutout with 10 strikeouts as the Rangers beat White Bear Lake 3-0. Her catcher Karianne Drury belted a two-run homer. Bear pitcher Lilly Martin, facing an 8-0 team averaging over 11 runs per game, allowed just four hits and struck out 10. The Bears beat Wayzata 7-2 as Martin belted a three-run homer and pitched two innings (one run). Lilah Evans had a solo homer and pitched five innings (one run, five hits, no walks) for the win. Going 2-for-2 were Anessa Pena (two RBI’s) and Allie Castro.

BOYS GOLF

White Bear Lake placed sixth of 10 teams in the opening Suburban East Conference meet at River Oaks. Cretin-Derham Hall won with 295. The Bears totaled 319. Easton Fiddle tied for third with 73. Ryan Kissner shot 81, Gracy Giefer 82 and Cody Olinger 83.

BOYS TRACK

White Bear Lake placed fourth of 10 teams in a home invitational. Spring Lake Park placed first. The Bears won the 4x100 with Brian White, Tomi Animasaun, Antonio Brown and Easton Miles (43.71). Miles won long jump (21-8) with Animasaun fourth (21-5). They placed 3-4-5 in pole vault with James Bowen (12-6), Cason Jurgens (12-6) and Alexander Maki (12-0). Vincent Kazmierczak was fourth in shot put (46-9) and discus (142-1).

GIRLS TRACK

White Bear Lake had one first place and three seconds in a Mounds View meet for the Suburban East Conference. Team scoring was not kept. The Bears won the 4x100 (53.35). Piper Heinsohn was second in the 400 (59.52). Brynn Heinsohn was second in the 800 (2:29.42). Madelyn Erickson was second in shot

NCAA titles, and eight in all. Pederson was recruited for Kindler’s dynastic program out of White Bear Lake’s Flips club under Bart and Lori Roskoski. Pederson contributed to the 2025 title also but had a bigger role this year.

put (37-1/2) and Pearl Niemioja third (35-11). Isla Bloomquist was third in the 1600 (5:40).

TENNIS

White Bear Lake (4-1) nipped Roseville Area 4-3. Winning singles for the Bears were Martin Hennig, Mason Voeller add Asher Ludwig (7-5, 1-6, 6-2) at 2-3-4. Graham Hennig lost at No. 1 to Ravi Kumar 6-3, 6-1. The fourth point came from Joseph Karls/Keagan McGovern 6-4, 4-6, 6-1 at 3-doubles. The Bears beat Osseo 6-1. Martin Hennig, Voeller, Graham Hennig and Ludwig won in singles. Quintin Kapisak/Carter Docken and Keenan Griffin/Karls won at 1 and 3 doubles.

BOYS LACROSSE

White Bear Lake has a 2-1 record after losing to East Ridge 17-10. Previously the Bears beat Maple Grove 17-14 and Roseville Area 25-4. Against Maple Grove, Wyatt Raleigh netted seven goals and Liam Maloy four. Adrian Echer won 12 ground balls. Reid Vickstrom stopped seven of 17 shots Against Roseville, eleven players had goals, led by Gavin Huot with nine and Colton Butts with four.

GIRLS LACROSSE

White Bear Lake is 3-0 after beating East Ridge 15-5 and Roseville 7-6. Against East Ridge, Caylen Helmberger and Rylan West made four goals each and Olivia Helvig and Hazel Helvig two each. West won seven ground balls. The Bears edged Roseville with Ami Samaniego and Megan Packer netting two goals each and Mia Huntley and Mikaela Hjelsetha one each.

BASEBALL

The Bears are 0-4 after a pair of shutout losses last week, to Woodbury 8-0 and Forest Lake 10-0.

Bruce Strand

Zephyrs cruise in 2 shutout wins

Mahtomedi posted lopsided shutout wins last week over Hastings 7-0 and Simley 12-0, both on the road. The defending state Class 3A champions are 4-1.

Tino Foster blanked Hastings on two hits and no walks, striking out five and went 3-for-3 at the plate with two RBI’s. Connor Finn had a double and two RBI’s.

Against Simley, Finn threw 5.33 innings, allowing one hit, striking

out 11 and hit a two-run homer. Cody Loida got the last four outs, two by strikeouts.

Loida had four RBI’s with a double and sac fly. Jacob Reubish had four RBI’s on a double and single. Frank Schwieters hit a solo homer. Luke Torgrude was 3-for-4 (three runs) and Cam Hentsch was 2-for-4 (two runs).

Bruce Strand

TENNIS

Playing four straight days last week, the Zephyrs (5-2) beat Benilde-St. Margaret’s 4-0 (rainshortened), lost to Orono 6-1 and won 7-0 over North St. Paul and 7-0 over Tartan. Eli Hendrickson/Tyler Chesak had the lone point against Orono, which won 48 of 50 games in singles. The lineup against North was Ethan Stout, Chesak, Jonathan Palmquist and Vinnie Berkner in singles, and Reese Nelson/ Gannon Hamen, Colin Carlson/ Elias Barnes and Van Karle/Luke Winter in doubles. Against Tartan it was Nelson, Kento Kedrowski, Palmquist and Easton Jackola in singles, and Hendrickson/Hamen, Emmett See/Barnes, and Sebastian Nef/Ivan Knauss in doubles.

BOYS LACROSSE

Mahtomedi has lost its first four games, to Blaine 5-4, Maple Grove

8-5, Farmington 16-0 and Wayzata 14-4. Top scorers are Seth Erickson with five goals and Lucas Vander Louw with four.

SOFTBALL

Mahtomedi lost to Visitation 1-0, Coon Rapids 10-5 and South St. Paul (SSP) 6-5 last week, dropping to 2-5. Against Visitation, Hayden Walmer threw four innings (one run) and Sydney DeFore three scoreless. Against Coon Rapids, Ellie Lahr was 3-for-3, Alex Pawluk 2-for-4 (RBI, two runs), Lexi Burg 1-for-3 (two RBI), and Kristen Johnson 2-for-3 (RBI). LaFore took the loss. Against SSP, Walmer pitched five innings (three runs, unearned) and Liana Grillo 1 2/3 (three runs, four walks). Lahr was 1-for-3 (two runs) and Walmer 1-for-3 (RBI).

Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Connor Finn

Mahtomedi Baseball April 22, 2026

Connor Finn, Mahtomedi senior pitcher/outfielder, has won his first two starts, allowing just four hits and no runs in 9 1/3 innings with 14 strikeouts. A 6-foot-3 left-hander whose fastball has hit 95 mph, he is ranked No. 3 among 2026 prospects in the state, according to Prep Baseball Report. Finn is 6-for-19 at the plate with a homer and six RBI’s. He made the all-tournament team last June (going 5-for-11, four runs, three RBI’s), when the Zephyrs won the state championship. He has signed with Texas Tech.

ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

Bruce

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Sid Kolbet (left) of the Zephyrs lacrosse team jousted with Joshua Thompson of Maple Grove.

UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA | CONTRIBUTED

Lily Pederson, one of the leaders for Oklahoma, is a product of Flips Gymnastics in her hometown, White Bear Lake.

• The second tine in Mahtomedi’s road construction fork is State Trunk Highway 244/ Mahtomedi Avenue. Council officially declared Highway 244 to be a state aid route as part of the turnback agreement with MnDOT. Beginning May 1, the city will officially own Highway 244 from Stillwater Road (CSAH 12) to 35 feet north of Tamarack Street (the Mahtomedi and Dellwood city boundary). The 1.6-mile road will be called just “Mahtomedi Avenue” and will be entirely the city’s responsibility. With the resolution officially declaring the transfer on May 1, the city will receive $7.6 million in compensatory funding from MnDOT in June and will also be eligible to receive future municipal state aid funding for maintenance. The road will receive a complete makeover: construction is expected to start in 2027 and cost $13.6 million overall.

• In more major construction news, the 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Plan includes construction of a joint city hall and fire station. Council approved a contract with OPN Architects on March 17 for project design services and at the April 7 meeting entered into an agreement with Don Theisen for Owner’s Representative Services to start the selection process to hire a construction manager for the fire station/city hall project.

• City staff recommended council contract with Theisen to prepare requests for qualification and requests for proposals along with related materials and to manage the selection process for the construction manager at risk. The cost for Theisen’s services will be $11,000. Theisen is a retired Washington County public works director and has provided similar services to other communities. Council also appointed its city administrator, fire chief and architect to sit on the selection committee. Mayor Richard Brainerd said it was a good idea to bring someone in to help the city in its potential $22 million investment. “This is more complicated and important than a lowest bid scenario,” he said.

• As the city grows, signs marking its entrances need to be updated, according to city staff. New monument signs are proposed at Hilton Trail, Wildwood Road and Century Avenue. Over the

years, there have been discussions about updating the existing signs with more modern alternatives. Based on feedback from city staff and council, the city’s engineering firm, WSB, proposed a new sign design for council’s consideration. The new signs would be installed at Hilton Trail first, and later at the other two entrances when major road construction is complete. The price tag for each sign was to be $40,000, until council turned the thumbs down, primarily due to the cost. Council didn’t like the look of the signs, either. “The brick throws me,” said Council Member Luke Schlegel. “Brick doesn’t feel right to me.” In the end, council punted the sign issue over to the Parks Commission.

• Each year, licenses for on/off-sale, Sunday, intoxicating, 3.2% off-sale, malt liquor and gasoline service come up for renewal. Staff recommended the license renewals, contingent on receipt of all appropriate paperwork and certificates of insurance. Vying for various liquor licenses are:

- Forster’s Dugout Bar, 96 Mahtomedi Avenue

- Wildwood Tavern, 80 Mahtomedi Avenue

- Quinny’s Pub, 3140 Century Avenue N.

- Liquor Barrel, 3124 Century Avenue N.

- Bella Ciao Ristorante, 3156 Century Avenue N.

- Red Luna Seasons, 114 Mahtomedi Avenue

Eligible for various automotive licenses are:

- Express Lane, 1000 Wildwood Road

- Holiday Station Store, 780 Stillwater Road

- Mahtomedi Automotive Service, 955 Mahtomedi Avenue

• Spring is here, and that means more outdoor tasks for the Public Works Department. Council approved the hiring of three seasonal public works employees. This year’s group will include two recommended three-year employees who will start at $20/hour, and one first-year employee who will start at $18/hour. A fourth public works employee will be hired shortly and will be approved at an upcoming City Council meeting.

• Street sweepers were already on duty the morning before their official contract was approved by council at the April 7 meeting. Public works solicited quotes for the 2026 citywide

street sweeping and received the low quote from Allied Blacktop Company in the amount of $130 per hour. Therefore, it was recommended that Allied Blacktop be awarded the contract for street sweeping. The city has contracted with this vendor several times in the past. The city will generally use a contractor for five days in the spring and five days in the fall.

• The city’s finance director, Scott Schaefer, received his 15-year service award. “Every time I think of Scott, I think we need more money — we have so many projects,” Brainerd said. “We hope you stay here for a lot longer,” he said. Schaefer, who started in April 2011, said he enjoys his coworkers and that council has been great to work with. “It’s fun to come to work,” he said.

• Part of Schaefer’s enjoyment in coming to work includes receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 34th straight year. The award comes from the Government Finance Officers Association of the U.S. and Canada (GFOA) for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2024. The certificate of achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by the government and its management. Every year the city submits the ACFR for the previous fiscal year ending on Dec. 31, which is judged by an impartial panel, Schaefer said.

• WCSO Deputy Henry Gibney reported that more people are outside, and his agency is busy. The WCSO has received several calls pertaining to the onslaught of NERF wars in the streets. Teams run around and play tag, and the WCSO receives complaints about drivers, cars blocking roads and kids in streets, Gibney said. There are also plenty of children on e-bikes (Minnesota statutes prohibit anyone under the age of 15 from operating an e-bike). Anyone witnessing dangerous motorized bike behavior is invited to give the WCSO a call, he said.

Loretta Harding

• Lakeshore Players Theatre has been granted a temporary liquor license to serve full-intoxicating liquor at a fundraiser gala on May 14. State statutes provide that municipalities may issue temporary on-sale liquor licenses to nonprofit organizations in existence for at least three years. The license may not extend for more than four consecutive days and cannot total more than 12 days in one year. The business already has an onsale license to sell 3.2 percent malt liquor, wine and strong beer, but would like to serve full-intoxicating liquor for this event.

The council has also approved a massage establishment license for Danielle Watters of Ellie Wellness & Esthetics, located at 2179 Fourth Street, Suite 3B. The property is zoned mixed use downtown (MX-D) and massage is a permitted use at this location. The police department completed a background investigation of the applicant and found nothing to preclude issuance of a massage license.

• The council has approved a joint powers agreement (JPA) with White Bear Township to provide sanitary sewer and water services to the property located at 5255 Northwest Avenue. The property has been on private well and septic service since it was first developed as a single dwelling unit in 1952. The current property owner purchased the lot in 2025 and has been working with city staff to

obtain approvals to demolish the existing house and subdivide the property into three new lots.

The city does not have water and sanitary sewer utilities near the property and currently has no plans to extend utilities to the property. The township has agreed to allow the property to connect water and sanitary sewer services to township utility mains along Northwest Avenue through the execution of a JPA. The JPA outlines that the property will be serviced by township water and sanitary sewer, the township will bill the property owner for water and sewer usage, the township will own and operate any utility main extensions needed for connection and the property owner is responsible for their service from the building to the connection at the main.

• The city has indicated its support for two grants for a planned development by Habitat for Humanity on the southern portion of the property located at 1755 Highway 96.

The city’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) recently approved a purchase agreement to sell the northern portion of the property to Great Buy Homes to construct a market-rate single-family home. City staff are working to finalize a purchase agreement to sell the southern two-thirds of this property to Habitat for Humanity for three affordable owner-occupied units (one twin home

and one single-unit home). That purchase agreement is scheduled to go to the HRA on April 28. There is a financial gap with the Habitat for Humanity project due to the cost of housing development exceeding the revenue generated by the sale of an affordable owner-occupied unit of housing. To offset this gap and ensure the financial feasibility of the project, Habitat for Humanity is seeking multiple sources of funding, including grants through Ramsey County and the Metropolitan Council. It has already secured funding from Minnesota Housing for various projects, including the Highway 96 proposal.

As previously discussed with the HRA, the group will make a formal request to the city for support through its Local Affordable Housing

Aid (LAHA) funds later this year. The current ask of the Metropolitan Council and Ramsey County is for the twin-home units they intend to begin constructing in 2027 for affordable homeownership opportunities. The current amounts being requested are $200,000 from the Met Council and $160,000 from Ramsey County. They plan to make a similar request for support in 2027 for the affordable single-unit home planned for 2028. • Arbor Day is celebrated annually on the last Friday of April, which falls on April 24 this year. Mayor Mary Nicklawske recently made a proclamation to recognize the importance of trees and commit to thoughtfully maintaining the urban forest throughout the community and park systems.

Tree City USA is an Arbor Day Foundation Program in cooperation with the USDA Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. It helps communities demonstrate and promote their commitment to trees. The city has been recognized as a Tree City community since 1988. Reciting an official Arbor Day proclamation is one of the requirements to be recognized. Another requirement is that communities must commit to spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry.

The next City Council meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, at City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

Firefighter/paramedic Michelle Redlin is sworn in as the newest member of the White Bear Lake Fire Department. She started out as an EMT with the Mahtomedi Fire Department in 2022 and was hired by the White Bear Fire Department last May. She completed paramedic school at Century College and has since completed all the necessary training and certifications. Pictured at left is her son Micah.

WHITE BEAR LAKE CITY COUNCIL NOTES