White Bear Press by Press Publications

Mother’s Day

In honor of Mother’s Day Sunday, May 11, Press Publications asked local mothers, “What is the favorite thing your child has ever said to you?”

Kristina Sherrett, White Bear Lake

“I can’t go to bed, mom. I just love you so much and want to hug you all night long.” – Natalie

Shannon Granholm, Hugo

“I love you too!” – Royce

Kristin Keating, Vadnais Heights

“Mom, you’re so lucky to have me!” – DJ

Mary Peterson, Lino Lakes

“You make my heart beep so fast.” – Solomon

Mary Healy, Lino Lakes

“I know all your tricks.” – Kyle

“Stupid gem store.” – Garrett

Casandra Palkovich, Lino Lakes

“Momma, you scared me and made my heart BEEP!” – Jace

My mom said, “James, look at the front loader.”

James said back,“No, that is a skid steer, you can tell by the very powerful hydraulic engine.” – James

BY LORETTA HARDING

WRITER

Voters within Mahtomedi School District 832 should not expect to take the first Tuesday in November off this year. They will likely be asked to vote in a special election on a facilities bond question this fall.

The Mahtomedi School Board will pursue a building bond referendum.

The facilities project scope and budget will now be submitted to the Minnesota Commissioner of Education for review and comment.

The bond amount the district will ask voters to approve is estimated to be $28 million.

SEE BOND REFERENDUM, PAGE 16

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

It’s not every day that elementary school students learn how they can make an impact in their community while also learning skills they will one day need to be productive members of society.

“Flippin’ powder (drinking fountain)” –Emma Polly Dolby, Forest Lake

“Mom, you’re my best friend!” – Ziya

“If I can’t have this threelegged dog, I don’t even want a dog.” – Maddy

Willow Lane Elementary has two longstanding programs that aim to do just that — The Minnow Tank and Donatelli’s “takeover.”

Community Outreach Coordinator Leigh Anderson says both programs demonstrate the power of connection. “None of these programs would exist without the amazing folks in our communities,” she said. “These people show up for our children at Willow Lane. There are over 100 volunteers who are a very important part of the Willow Lane Village.”

SEE WILLOW LANE, PAGE 9

Legislative breakfast brings together lawmakers and leaders for

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

As the end of the Minnesota legislative session approaches, state senators and representatives are providing updates on what community members can expect to see happen in the next couple of weeks.

The White Bear Area Chamber of Commerce’s Legislative Breakfast is an annual event that brings together local and state lawmakers, business leaders and community members for session updates and open conversation around current legislative issues affecting the northeast metro.

“It’s a great opportunity to hear directly from elected officials and connect with local leaders in a relaxed, community-focused setting,” explained chamber Executive Director Kari Moore.

Rep. Peter Fischer, Rep. Brion Curran and Sen. Heather Gustafson,

along with Ramsey County commissioners Tara Jebens-Singh and Kelly Miller and Washington County Commissioner Fran Miron, attended the event at Tria last week.

Curran (District 36B)

Curran, who has a 20-year background in disability services, said that is something they are keeping their eye on over the next few weeks.

Curran is working with other lawmakers on some final language that would revise MnCHOICES

(a computer application used by counties, tribal nations and managed care organizations to support their assessment and support planning work for Minnesotans who need longterm services and supports regardless of age, type of disability or service needs.)

“I know that’s a priority for most counties across the state. We are working on some significant policy change that effectively would get

folks through that process to get their services sooner,” Curran said. “Not only are we seeing increased costs, we are seeing increased wait times. As wait times continue for folks who are in great need, sometimes then their health is declining during that period, and we end up spending even more on folks who need services. Hopefully, we can make some good changes there.”

Curran, who serves on the judiciary and public safety committees, is also involved in legislation that would protect the private information of judges, like home addresses.

“As we go into the next few weeks, it is just making sure that the things that we’ve all worked hard to keep in our laws move forward and make it across the finish line.”

Gustafson (District 36)

For the past year, one of Gustafson’s main priorities has been the creation of an Office of Inspector General, which she compared to an insurance

policy on a house.

“The reason why we think this is so important is we want to make sure that our taxpayer dollars are protected,” she said. “For every dollar we spend, those are precious dollars that we are having to make tough choices on, and we want to make sure that all of those dollars are going exactly where they’re supposed to go and that they are not being taken from us, or that they’re not being misused.” She added, “It’s an insurance policy on our tax dollars to make sure that they are going where they are supposed to go and to make sure that bad actors don’t get ahold of the dollars that we are putting forward to these programs.”

Another priority for the former Centennial High School teacher is teacher pensions.

CURRENT EVENTS

‘ANYTHING GOES’ (2022 REVIVAL VERSION)

When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m.

Sundays, April 25-May 18

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake

Details: The SS American sets sail, and two unlikely couples embark on the road to true love aided by a crew of singing sailors. “Anything Goes” is “delightful, delicious and de-lovely.” Contact: 651–478-7427 or tickets@lakeshoreplayers.org

DONATELLI’S TAKEOVER

When: 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Tuesdays, May 13 and May 20

Where: Donatelli’s Restaurant, 2692 County Road E E., White Bear Lake

Details: Fifth graders from Willow Lane Elementary have been learning about resumes and interviews. Now, they will work as cooks, servers and hosts over the lunch hour. Contact: 651-777-9199

COMMUNITY LUNCH

When: Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, May 7

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center Details: Food, conversation, ad live entertainment for residents of all ages. Registration deadline May 2. Contact: communityed.mahtomedi.k12.mn.us

GARDEN TOOL SWAP

When: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 7

Where: North Environmental Center, Forest Lake Details: Drop off unwanted garden tools and decor and pick up needed ones. No power tools, plastic planters, dirt or broken items. Contact: washingtoncountymn.gov/3775/Reuse-andRepair-Resources

MOVING AWAY FROM NATURAL GAS

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 7

Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 Second St., White Bear Lake

Details: The community forum features J. Drake Hamilton, a nationally respected climate policy expert and the managing director of Science Policy at Fresh Energy. Hamilton, who serves on Governor Walz’s Advisory Council on Climate Change, will explore science-based strategies for transitioning Minnesota away from natural gas and toward a clean energy future.

Contact: olingers25@msn.com or 612-718-6412

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, May 8

Where: Podvin Park, 1700 Ninth St., White Bear Lake Details: Come explore a variety of vehicles, meet first responders and have some family fun. Hosted by the White Bear Lake Police Department. Contact: 651-429-8511

HEART 4 ART

When: 5-7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8

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

Details: WBCA’s annual fundraising event includes social hour with cash bar, dinner, and program with moving stories and teaching artists creating original pieces live throughout the event. Register by April 30.

Contact: 651-407-0597 or whitebeararts.org

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY

When: 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 9

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center

Details: Live music, yard games and food trucks. No registration required. Contact: communityed.mahtomedi.k12.mn.us

BIG RED BARN FOLK ARTS AND CRAFTERS FAIR

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 10

Where: Maplewood Area Historical Society, 2170 County Road D E., Maplewood

Details: This event is a fundraiser supporting the preservation of the Maplewood Area Historical Society’s 12 historic structures dating back to 1891. Browse over 100 booths in the area’s largest Folk Arts gathering. Parking is available at Maplewood Mall.

Contact: events@MaplewoodMuseum.org or 651-7488645

St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour

When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, May 9-Sunday, May 11

Where: 35703 Vibo Trail, Lindstrom

Details: The St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour is an annual gathering of exceptional potters and pottery enthusiasts in the beautiful St. Croix River Valley of Minnesota. The studios are a short drive from each other, allowing some or all to be visited in a single day.

Contact: saintcroixvalleypotterytour.com

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

• Officers received a call April 23 from a complainant in the 4000 block of Gisella Boulevard who had questions regarding an animal complaint filed the night before.

• Officers responded April 23 to graffiti found in a bathroom at Lakewood Hills Park located in the 0 block of Orchard Lane.

• Officers responded April 23 to a report of theft from auto in the 3600 block of Scheuneman Road.

• Officers took a report of vandalism April 23 in the 3700 block of Bellaire Avenue.

• Officers responded April 23 to a person who refused to leave a business in the 2000 block of County Road E. The person was trespassed from the business and voluntarily left the property.

• Officers were dispatched April 23 to a domestic in the 4300

block of Centerville Road. A 68-year-old male from Forest Lake was arrested for domestic assault. He was booked at the Ramsey County Law Enforcement Center (LEC) for gross misdemeanor domestic assault.

• Graffiti was found April 23 in the Spruce Park bathrooms in the 0 block of McKnight Road N.

• Officers responded April 23 to a noise complaint in the 5100 block of Long Avenue. A citation was issued for noise ordinance violation.

• Police stopped a driver April 24 in the 1900 block of Webber Street for driving around with an expired driver’s license.

• Officers took a report of fraud April 24 that occurred in the 4800 block of Peggy Lane.

• Officers were dispatched April 24 to a domestic in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road. While en route, officers confirmed that the suspect, a 26-yearold male from Oakdale, was

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 resident in the 4200 block of Elizabeth Lane on March 30 reported seeing a car pull up in front of his home and its occupants throw a bag containing suspected narcotics out of the window. Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies collected the bag of suspected narcotics and began the investigation.

Deputies respond to all 911 calls, including hang-up calls. On March 30, they found a man, 18, and his father arguing in the 4200 block of Rice Street. After mediating the dispute, deputies left everyone on good terms.

• A White Bear Lake man, 30, was cited for misdemeanor theft at 6:09 p.m. March 30 at the Walmart store in the 800 block of County Road E after he was caught stealing merchandise

from the store.

a wanted fugitive out of the Department of Corrections. The suspect fled upon seeing officers. He later surrendered and was arrested. He was booked at the Ramsey County LEC on his felony warrant.

• Officers responded April 24 to a two-vehicle crash that occurred at the intersection of White Bear Avenue and Lake Avenue S.

• Officers stopped a theft in progress April 24 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road. No charges stemmed from the incident.

• Officers received a fraud report April 25 that occurred in the 2100 block of County Road F. After further investigation, the total loss was estimated to be $1,100.

• Police received a report of a scam April 25 that occurred in the 0 block of Cook Avenue. It resulted in an estimated financial loss of approximately $1,000 and the compromise of personal information.

• A St. Paul man, 30, was arrested at 4:59 a.m. March 30 on a warrant for second-degree assault, after he had previously fired several rounds through the front door of a house in the 3000 block of Arcade Street and fled the scene. Responding deputies found five bullet holes in the door of a residence, but no one was injured or killed. Investigators found the suspect hiding in St. Paul and later took him into custody after conducting a traffic stop on the car he was driving away from his hideout. The suspect was held on $1 million bail for an unrelated sexual assault case as he awaited trial from jail.

• A Minneapolis woman, 34, was arrested for DWI March 31 in the 800 block of County Road E after she was found slumped over the steering wheel of the 1999 Buick Regal she was driving. She has been charged by the city attorney.

• A Minneapolis man, 25, was cited for

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Birchwood

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted four traffic stops in one half-hour period during the afternoon of March 23 on Jay Street and Hall Avenue for stop sign violation and cited four drivers for the offense.

• Deputies again set up stop sign violation patrol at Jay Street and Hall Avenue during the afternoon of March 24, conducted four traffic stops and cited three drivers for that violation. One of the drivers received a verbal warning.

Grant

• A motorist was pulled over March 23 on Manning Avenue N. and Liberty Avenue for expired registration and received a citation for the tardy tabs. Deputies on routine patrol March 24 cited a vehicle parked in the 9000 block of Jeffrey Blvd. N. for displaying vehicle registration that expired in 2022.

• A business in the 8000 block of Jamaca Avenue N. on March 27 reported $8,400 taken from its fuel management system.

• A motorist was pulled over on Dellwood Road at McKusick Road N. and cited March 27 for passing another vehicle on the shoulder.

• Deputies cited another motorist at 10:55 p.m. March 28 on Highway 36 and Lake Elmo Avenue N. for violating the Ted Foss Move Over law.

• Officers were dispatched April 26 to United Hospital to take a report of a domestic assault that occurred in the 1900 block of Garden Lane. After an investigation, a 42-year-oldmale from White Bear Lake was arrested. He was booked at the Ramsey County LEC on misdemeanor domestic assault charges.

• Police arrested a 33-year-old male from St. Paul April 26 for misdemeanor-level domestic assault in the 3500 block of Century Avenue. The male was booked at the Ramsey County LEC.

• Officers responded April 27 on a report of a disturbance in the 4000 block of Bellaire Avenue.

A White Bear Lake female, 24, was arrested without incident and booked at the Ramsey County LEC on misdemeanor domestic assault charges.

• An officer took a report April 27 of a minor two-vehicle accident that occurred in the intersection of Ninth Street

driving after revocation April 1 in the 200 block of Highway 96.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 32, was cited for speeding April 2 in the 1200 block of County Road E.

• Four residents in the 4100 block of Centerville Road on April 2 reported their Amazon packages stolen after they’d been delivered. Surveillance video showed a man wearing an Amazon driver’s uniform enter the apartment building while holding a package. He is seen on video making his way to the mail room to leave the fake package there. On his way out through the building’s entrance, he is again seen on video picking up all the packages lying on the floor and carrying them to his vehicle. Deputies gathered more information and issued a metrowide alert that contained all the needed identifying details to other agencies. Coon Rapids police located the suspect’s tan Honda Civic with matching license plate and conducted a traffic stop. They then arrested an

Mahtomedi

• Deputies cited a motorist for speeding March 20 on Wildwood Road and Lincolntown Avenue. Another motorist was cited for speeding on March 21 in the 900 block of Wildwood Road.

• A suspicious vehicle reported at the rear lot of Century College in the 3000 block of Century Avenue at 1:24 a.m. March 21 turned out to belong to the cleaners.

• A motorist was arrested for drug-related DWI on March 21 on Century Avenue and Long Lake Road following a traffic stop for expired registration.

• Deputies cited a motorist on Century Avenue at 2:36 a.m. March 23 for driving after suspension. Another motorist was cited at 3:46 p.m. on Lincolntown Avenue and Robert Street for displaying expired registration and for a cracked windshield, following a traffic stop for the tardy tabs. A third motorist was cited at 4:01 p.m. on Century Avenue and Wildwood Road for failure to provide proof of insurance, after being pulled over for a faulty brake light and no front license plate. The fourth motorist was cited at 4:10 p.m. on East County Line Road at Wildwood Road for expired registration following a traffic stop for that transgression.

• Employees of a church on East Avenue reported hearing a loud bang while they were inside the church at 4:43 p.m. March 24. When they went outside to investigate the origin of the noise, the workers found a fire hydrant on the ground in the entrance to the drop off/pick up doors. The witnesses didn’t see a vehicle at that time but found a vehicle part in the roadway.

• Deputies resumed their enforcement of motor vehicle laws at 8:55 p.m. March 24 by citing a motorist on

and Bald Eagle Avenue. No injuries were reported.

• Officers were dispatched April 27 for a domestic assault that occurred in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road. A male, 40, from White Bear Lake was arrested for third-degree assault. He was booked at the Ramsey County LEC.

• Officers received a report April 28 that the Matoska Park men’s restroom was vandalized with graffiti. Damage was estimated at $20.

• Officers received a theft report April 29 of golf clubs stolen from a driveway in the 4800 block of Stewart Avenue. No known suspects.

• Officers arrested a 41-yearold male from White Bear Lake April 29 in the 0 block of Hoffman Road who had two outstanding warrants. He was booked into the Ramsey County LEC without incident.

Andover man, 36. A vehicle search uncovered the stolen packages.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 34, was arrested April 2 in the 1100 block of County Road D on multiple active warrants.

• A Stoughton, Wisconsin, man on April 4 reported the front and rear license plates stolen from his green 2008 Volkswagen while it was parked outside the Comfort Inn and Suites hotel in the 3500 block of Vadnais Center Drive.

White Bear Township

• Deputies took custody of unwanted ammunition March 31 from the 1400 block of Brandlwood Road.

• Employees of White Bear Township on April 3 reported a break-in to a township-owned building in the 1200 block of Hammond Road that caused some $3,000 worth of damage.

Loretta Harding

Stillwater Road at Ideal Avenue for a missing headlight.

• A motorist traveling along Century Avenue N. at Wildwood Road at 12:07 a.m. March 25 was cited for failure to update his address or obtain a Minnesota driver’s license after moving to Minnesota more than three months prior to the traffic stop.

Pine Springs

• A westbound motorist was arrested on a felony warrant at 1:58 a.m. March 20 on Highway 36 over Hilton Trail, following a traffic stop for equipment violation. The motorist was also issued a citation for the equipment violation.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 11:27 p.m. March 20 on eastbound Highway 36 for speeding 75 mph in a 60 mph zone by deputies on stationary patrol who clocked the vehicle on radar. The driver told deputies he was “just having a good time with his girl.”

• A noncompliant driver was mailed a citation March 21 after he failed to yield at the roundabout on Hilton Trail N. at 60th Street N. The driver did not pull over for flashing lights and screaming siren, so will receive the citation by mail. As long as deputies were mailing the citation, they included fines for no front license plate and excessive window tint.

• Deputies cited three motorists March 21-22 for speeding and for various other undisclosed traffic violations in the 6000 block of Hilton Trail N. and on Highway 36 and I-694.

Loretta Harding

WILLOW LANE: Elementary students ‘grow and blossom’ through real-life experiences

Minnow Tank

The Minnow Tank project, which was launched in 2018, is a partnership between the White Bear Lake Rotary Club and the school. The two-year program kicks off in the spring for third graders and returns in the fall for fourth graders.

For approximately three months, students learn about giving, serving others and teamwork. Students learn about the “butterfly effect” and how one small act or gesture can spiral into something much bigger.

“The overall goal is that kids recognize their unique gifts and talents and realize how they can make the world a better place,” Anderson said. “I want every kid to recognize that their presence on this earth matters and they can make a difference.”

Students are then divided into 10 teams based on the area in which they want to make a difference: disease, poverty, environment and animals. Each team is assigned a charity and a coach to mentor them twice a week for four weeks.

That’s where Rotary comes in. Rotarian Lori Swanson was a coach last year and is a sub this year. Swanson is the co-chair of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) team along with Rotarian Rick Storey.

“One of our goals of Rotary is providing not just funding for organizations and initiatives but that manpower to help get things done. This is an example of that,” Swanson explained.

Storey added, “Our motto is ‘service above self.’ This project is a very strong fit into that overall theme, as these young students are working hard to win the chance to give their prize (money) away to a charity they are already feeling connected to.”

This year’s coaches include Storey, Jackie Reis, Carol Dietz, Patty Hall, Cora Hankins, Gloria Drake, Kari Moore, Ken Galloway, Bob Morse, Teresa Dupre, Carol Bacon and Ellen Fahey.

During their sessions, the coaches work to help the students understand their charity of choice, what its purpose is and what might happen if they weren’t around. Coaches then help the students with their PowerPoint presentations to the judges. Each student is assigned to a role like a slide captain, team pact captain, gratitude captain and praiser/encourager.

“We empower them to be leaders,” Swanson said. “It is a privilege and delightful to be a part of those presentations and watch the kids just shine after they have worked so long on getting these together. It is fun to watch them grow and blossom.”

Storey added, “We are asking them to do things at 8 or 9 years old that we don’t do very well as adults … We underestimate these kids. They are great.”

Anderson said the connections the students form with their coaches are so important.

“These mentors are changing these kids’ lives,” Anderson said. “Loneliness is an epidemic right now. Kids are craving connection, and that’s the best thing about this program, they get to connect with their coaches.”

Students will pitch their charities to six judges on May 22. Judges will score based on preparedness, passion/enthusiasm, teamwork and creativity. In this iteration of the Minnow Tank, the Rotary has donated $1,500 that will be divvied up among the top three winners’ charities of choice.

Donatelli’s takeover

Thirteen years ago, Nicole Nelson was working up the courage to serve lunch to the governor, superintendent and principal. Fast-forward to 2025, and she is teaching a fifth grader how to do just that. Nelson, 24, was one of the many fifth graders at Willow Lane who have participated applied for, interviewed and worked a job at Donatelli’s Restaurant

in White Bear Lake.

“It was such a unique and impactful experience. I was selected to serve the governor, superintendent and principal, which was incredibly nerve-wracking at the time—but also very pivotal for me,” she said. “As a shy child, that experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a much-needed confidence boost. It was empowering to be treated like a professional at that age, and I left that day feeling like I could take on anything.”

In 2016 at the age of 15, Nelson officially started working there. She described the business as her family and her “home away from home.”

“Over the years, they’ve supported me through every stage of life: getting my license, graduating, going to college, becoming a mom and even experiencing loss in my family. Donatelli’s has been a constant source of support and belonging, and they genuinely care about every single employee as a person,” she said.

Anderson came up with the idea for the job shadow experience and started knocking on business doors. “Many folks looked at me like I was crazy,” she recalled. When she approached Donatelli’s, then-owner Trish Appleby said, “Let’s do it.”

In the fall, longtime employee Chris Price and owner Colin Myers visit the students to explain all the components of running a business and talk about the different jobs available. The students then pick out what job they would like to pursue and write a cover letter and resume. Donatelli employees then return to interview the students and they are each given a job.

For four weeks, each student gets an opportunity to be a host, server or cook.

“There are so many life lessons that go along with this experience. One of my favorite things is they learn they can do hard things,” Anderson said. “We talk about how magic happens when we are willing to step out of our comfort zones, (because) that’s when we grow the most. We tell them to embrace the butterflies and the nerves they feel because that is what it feels like to be brave and attempt hard things.”

Price added, “It is such a valuable tool for young kids… It teaches them real-world stuff that is so important so they can have tools in their belt to succeed when they get older. At some point, most folks have a job.”

Both projects allow students to build academic skills while strengthening their social-emotional skills.

“There is no better way to teach social-emotional learning than by allowing kids teamwork opportunities and learning how to work through failure and frustration together,” Anderson said. “Kids learn how to praise and encourage and how to

proactively work through challenges and conflict. They are then given opportunities to practice.”

Nelson says she wouldn’t be the person she is today without the Donatelli’s takeover experience and the support the business has provided her all these years. “It helped shape my confidence, my communication skills and my sense of community. It’s amazing to watch a new generation of Willow Lane students go through the same journey. I’m grateful to play a small part in helping them grow.”

A portion of the tips made during the takeover will be donated to Gabe Kessel (See “High school wrestler meets toughest opponent yet,” White Bear Press, May 22, 2024). Kessel was a fifth grader at Willow Lane in 2017-18. His mother Anna provided an update. “Overall, he is handling the treatments extremely well, and he is still free from neurological symptoms. We are super amazed and grateful for how well he is doing. They gave him 8 to 12 months for survival, and we are currently 13 months in, and he’s surpassing all their expectations.”

There are still two Tuesdays left for community members to visit Donatelli’s and show their support for Willow Lane students — 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 13 and May 20. “The more community that comes out to support them, the better it is. It is about those kids getting experience,” Price explained. “The more hype they get, the busier they are, the better it works.”

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

all about Photos limited to the first 50!

Please submit your favorite photo of your pet for a chance to have it showcased in our ‘All About Pets’ special section. Email photos to: artmanager@presspubs.com

Submission deadline: May 8, 2025 Will appear in the paper: May 14, 2025

White Bear Press | Vadnais Heights Press

PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS & SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Thirteen years ago, Nicole Nelson was in fifth grade and took the order from Gov. Mark Dayton. Fast forward to 2025 and she works at Donatelli’s and is helping mentor fifth graders.

White Bear Lake Area Chamber Director Kari Moore coaches Willow Lane Elementary third graders on their Minnow Tank project. Her students selected Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue.

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: Bolivelle

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2040 B Marshall Ave. Saint Paul, MN 55104

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.

Brady Moen LLC

3800 American Blvd. West, Suite 1500 #300-030 Bloomington, MN 55431

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 21, 2025

Signed: Brady Moen

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 30 and May 7, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

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

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Twombly Wealth Management

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 708 Cleveland Ave SW New Brighton, MN 55112

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.

Craig Twombly 708 Cleveland Ave SW New Brighton, MN 55112

Dated: April 22, 2025

Signed: Craig Twombly

Published two times in the White Bear Press on May 7 and 14, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

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

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Compass Courier

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 6100 Woodchuck Circle

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.

Brian Hill

6100 Woodchuck Circle

White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Dated: April 16, 2025

Signed: Brian Hill

Published two times in the White Bear Press on May 7 and 14, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

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

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Poo-Tastic Dog Waste Removal

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1739 Clear Ave.

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.

Glenn Price 1739 Clear Ave.

Saint Paul, MN 55106

Dated: April 28, 2025

Signed: Glenn Price

Published two times in the White Bear Press on May 7 and 14, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

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

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

Beck Integrated Wellness

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

400 S 4th St, Ste 410 #298750 Minneapolis, MN 55415

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.

Mary Lee Beck

400 S 4th St, Ste 410 #298750 Minneapolis, MN 55415

Dated: April 23, 2025

Signed: Mary Lee Beck

Published two times in the White Bear Press on May 7 and 14, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF

STATE

CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

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

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

J’s NA Distribution

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 755 Prior Ave N #348

Saint Paul, MN 55104

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.

J’s Kombucha LLC 2161 Juno Ave Saint Paul, MN 55106

Dated: April 28, 2025

Signed: Jason Wagner

Published two times in the White Bear Press on May 7 and 14, 2025.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE TITLE AND SUMMARY APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE NO. 25-04-2079 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE REGARDING DOGS

WHEREAS, the City of White Bear Lake City Council may, pursuant to Ordinance No. 83-6-666, adopt a title and summary of a proposed ordinance to be published in lieu of lengthy entire ordinances, and WHEREAS, in addition to adopting a title and ordinance summary, the Council shall direct the City Clerk to:

1. Publish the approved summary language once in the City’s official newspaper;

2. Have available for inspection during regular office hours a copy of the entire Ordinance;

3. Place a copy of the entire Ordinance at the White Bear Lake Branch of the Ramsey County Public Library;

4. Obtain an affidavit of publication of the title and summary from the official newspaper and place it in the City’s ordinance book together with the Ordinance and a copy of this Resolution;

5. Post the Ordinance on the City’s website.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of White Bear Lake City Council hereby adopts the aforementioned title and summary for approved Ordinance No. 25-04-2079 as listed below:

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF THE CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE REGARDING DOGS

The City Council of the City of White Bear Lake has adopted Ordinance No. 25-04-2079, titled “An Ordinance Amending the Municipal Code of the City of White Bear Lake Regarding Dogs.” The ordinance is intended to (i) require that dogs be restrained on a leash at all times when not located on private property with the property owner’s consent or within a private motor vehicle; and (ii) formally codify the longstanding rule that dogs be restrained on a leash no longer than 30 feet in length when in the designated area (dog beach) in Matoska Park. The ordinance also clarifies that designated areas for dog exercise may be established by the city council via resolution. The full text of the ordinance is available for inspection at White Bear Lake city hall during regular business hours and has been posted to the City’s website.

FURTHER, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of White Bear Lake City Council hereby directs the City Clerk to provide the inspection and publication requirements as listed above.

The foregoing resolution, offered by Councilmember Engstran and supported by Councilmember Edberg, was carried unanimously on April 22, 2025.

Dan Louismet, Mayor

ATTEST: Caley Longendyke, City Clerk

Published one time in the White Bear Press on May 7, 2025.

CITY OF WHITE BEAR LAKE PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

The City of White Bear Lake Planning Commission will hold a public hearing in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 4701 Highway 61, White Bear Lake, Minnesota on Monday, May 19, 2025 beginning at 7:00 p.m. to hear and make a recommendation to the City Council on the following requests:

A. Case No. 25-04-V: A request by Richard Hubbs for a variance from the 30 foot rear yard setback and a variance from the 25 foot side yard abutting a public right of way setback, both per code section 1303.060, subd.5 in order to build a new single dwelling unit with an attached garage at the property located at 2295 11th Street

B. Case No. 25-05-V: A request by Kangla Fang for a variance from the 40 foot front yard setback, per code section 1303.040, subd.5, a variance from the 97.9 foot average setback from the ordinary high water level (OHWL) for a home and a variance from the 92.9 foot setback from the OHWL for a balcony, both per code section 1302.040, subd.4 all in order to build a single dwelling unit with attached garage at the property located at 1455 Birch Lake Blvd South.

C. Case No. 25-06-CUP & V: A request by Solar Bear of Minnesota, for a conditional use permit for off-site parking per code section 1302.050, subd.11 and setback variances from the 15 foot hard surface setback, per code section 1303.226, subd.6 in order to construct an off-site parking lot for Mueller Memorial Funeral Home at the property located at 2030 3rd Street

Unless continued by the Planning Commission, these items will be heard by the City Council on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Comments may be presented at the public hearing or filed with the Planning Department until 12:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the hearing in order to be included in the packets. Each response will be considered before the Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the City Council. If there are questions concerning the application, please call the City’s Planning Department at (651) 429-8561.

Caley Longendyke, City Clerk

Published one time in the White Bear Press on May 7, 2025.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A MAJOR SUBDIVISION IN THE TOWN OF WHITE BEAR, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, That the Town Board of the Town of White Bear, Ramsey County, Minnesota, will meet at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road, in said Town on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., to consider the issuance of a Major Subdivision in an area located at 5300 Centerville Road, Parcel IDs 093022130011, 093022420006 and 093022420004 and legally described as: PARCEL 1 (PARCEL ID 093022420004): THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 30, RANGE 22, EXCEPT THE WEST 548.42 FEET OF THE NORTH 556 FEET THEREOF, AND EXCEPT THAT PART

THEREOF CONVEYED TO THE STATE OF MINNESOTA BY WARRANTY DEED DATED JANUARY 28, 1965, FILED FEBRUARY 17, 1965, AND RECORDED AS DOCUMENT NO. 1641687. PARCEL 2 (PARCEL ID 093022420006): THE WEST 548.42 FEET OF THE NORTH 556 FEET OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 30, RANGE 22, EXCEPT THE WEST 281.03 FEET OF THE NORTH 155 FEET THEREOF.

PARCEL 3 (PARCEL ID 093022130011): THE SOUTH 630 FEET OF THAT PART OF THE SOUTH HALF OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 30, RANGE 22, LYING WESTERLY OF THE WESTERLY RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY NO. 35E.

RAMSEY COUNTY

ALL ABSTRACT PROPERTY and to hear and pass upon objections and recommendations, if any, and to conduct any and all business incident thereto.

Given under my hand this 1st day of May, 2025.

PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer

Published one time in the White Bear Press on May 7, 2025.

US STORAGE CENTERS – WHITE BEAR NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE

Please take notice US Storage Centers – White Bear located at 1828 Buerkle Road White Bear, MN 55110 intends to hold an auction of storage units in default of payment. The sale will occur as an online auction via www. storagetreasures.com on 5/21/2025 at 10:00AM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Barbara Roth (2 units); Patricia Barrios; Sarah Kalm; Jonathan Luna; Sean Latham; Jeremy Jacobsz; Alberta Wrancher. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply.

Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 30 and May 7, 2025.

WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA SCHOOLS INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 624 INVITATION TO INTERESTED SERVICE PROVIDERS ELECTRIC SCHOOL BUSES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the White Bear Lake Area Schools (the “District”) is a recipient of a grant for an electric school bus and charger, and is requesting proposals from qualified and experienced vendors for the supply and delivery of new, fully electric Type C school buses with a minimum capacity of 77 passengers for daily student transportation routes.

The District seeks proposals for buses compliant with all applicable safety and accessibility standards and compatible with both level 2 and DC fast charging.

Detailed specifications and proposal requirements are outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP) document, which can be obtained from the District’s website at isd624.org/departments/transportation.

Proposals are due no later than May 19, 2 pm CDT and must be submitted to Tim Wald, Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations, tim.wald@isd624.org. Late proposals may not be considered. Proposals will be open publicly at 2 pm at the White Bear Lake Area Schools, District Services Center, 2399 White Bear Lake, MN 55110

The White Bear Lake Area Schools reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to accept the proposal(s) deemed to be in the best interest of the District. Published two times in the White Bear Press on April 30 and May 7, 2025. NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT LIEN FORECLOSURE SALE

YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT:

1. Default has occurred in the terms and conditions of the Amended and Restated Declaration for Silver Lake Woods Condominium Association, Inc. recorded in the Registrar of Titles for Ramsey County, Minnesota on March 28, 2011 as Document No. 2138790, as amended and supplemented (hereinafter the “Declaration), covering the following property:

Legal Description: Units 30 and G-29, Condominium Number 215, Silver Lake Woods Condominium. Subject to a reservation by the State of Minnesota of all minerals and mineral rights. Subject to encumbrances, liens, and interests noted on CICCT No. 584114 Street Address: 2638 Lake Court Dr, Unit 30, Mounds View, MN 55112

Tax Parcel Identification Number: 07-30-23-14-0577

2. Pursuant to said Declaration, there is claimed to be due and owing as of April 15, 2025 from Neil D. Remme, title holder, to Silver Lake Woods Condominium Association, Inc., a Minnesota non-profit corporation, the amount of $9,645.18 for unpaid association assessments, late fees, attorneys’ fees and costs of collection, plus any other such amounts that will accrue after April 15, 2025 including additional assessments and reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs of collection and foreclosure which will be added to the amount claimed due and owing at the time of the sale herein.

3. No action is now pending at law or otherwise to recover said debt or any part thereof.

4. All preforeclosure requirements have been met.

5. The owners have not been released from the owners’ financial obligation to pay said amount.

6. The Declaration, referenced above, provides for a continuing lien against the property.

7. Pursuant to the power of sale contained in the same Declaration and granted by the owners in taking title to the premises subject to said Declaration, said Lien will be foreclosed by the sale of said property by the Sheriff of Ramsey County at the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Civil Process, 360 Wabasha Street N., Ste. 111, St. Paul, MN 55102, on the 20th day of June, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at public auction to the highest bidder, to pay the amount then due for said assessments, together with the costs of foreclosure, including attorneys’ fees as allowed by law.

8. The time allowed by law for redemption by the unit owners, the unit owners’ personal representatives or assigns is six (6) months from the date of sale.

9. The date and time to vacate the property is 11:59 p.m. on December 20, 2025, if the account is not reinstated or the owners do not redeem from the foreclosure sale.

REDEMPTION NOTICE THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.

10. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION.

Dated: April 15, 2025

Smith Jadin Johnson, PLLC

By: /s/ Aaron M. Brooksby Aaron M. Brooksby (#0402625) Attorney for Silver Lake Woods Condominium Association, Inc. 7900 Xerxes Avenue S, Suite 600 Bloomington, MN 55431 (952) 600-7014

Published six times in the White Bear Press on April 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28 and June 4, 2025.

Landmark pre-prom photo opportunities

Above: Cian, Xander, Molly, Isabelle, Josephine and Josie chose the historic Erd-Geist Gazebo in Matoska Park as a backdrop for group prom day photos before heading out to the event later in the evening.

At right: Aviana Rider and Alex Maki pose near the fishing pier.

Above: Shey Sorenson, Presley Manship, Isaac Guarin, Sara Pasch, Alexa Samson and William Westmoreland found a shoreline spot near the Manitou Island bridge for some photos in the afternoon sunshine before attending prom.

Above: Jacob Baltzer and Scarlett Ellison were spotted with matching sunglasses at the lake shore near the White Bear Lake VFW.

At left: Nicholas Hoden, Jennifer Gaw Hillary Caldwell and Nathan Servatka pose on a bench at the Veteran’s Memorial.

TAX LEVY: Mahtomedi School District voters to face at least 1 tax question

FROM PAGE 1

The building project will include:

• middle school safety and security improvements, including a front entrance remodel

• high school critical mechanical system updates

• Wildwood Elementary, O. H. Anderson and District Education Center safety and security improvements

• high school innovation zone collaborative space remodel

• Chautauqua ADA stage access and seating replacement

• high school choir room

acoustical treatments and band room ADA improvements

• athletic field improvement

with Field 1 turf field and lights

• high school weight/fitness room addition and current weight room remodel

• high school safety and security improvements, including a hallway circulation remodel

Beginning in 2021, the district performed a comprehensive facilities audit to inform a long-term facilities maintenance plan and discovered that many mechanical systems are beyond life expectancy. In 2023, the district engaged high-use facility users seeking feedback on district facilities and solicited priority needs with an understanding of the tax impact of the project. In 2024, the district conducted resident

surveys to gauge community tax tolerance and support for facility improvement projects. In 2025, the district conducted a feasibility study to measure community interest in philanthropy. When the district conducted resident surveys, “the community has been very transparent about what they’d like to see,” said Board Treasurer Ryan Domin. “They’ve been supportive and part of a bigger vision. I urge community to come to us with creative ideas.”

In addition to the bond referendum, along with partnership with local municipalities and private donors, the district is also planning for a second phase of facility improvements in the future, depending on tax

impact. The district still needs to address educational facility needs at O. H. Anderson and to remodel the building.

Community and high school activity needs on the high school campus still need to be addressed. Based on priorities and partnerships, the district would also like to create a mixed use activity center, improve existing outdoor athletic facilities and make further improvements to the Chautauqua Fine Arts Center.

Director Drew Whitson said he saw a wonderful balance in the list of improvements to provide a clear opportunity to support the entire district. “I’m fortunate to step into this body of work so late and find that it had been done with care and thoughtfulness,” he said. Whitson started his term on

the board in January 2025. The facilities improvement bond comes during a time of grave financial concern, as the district faces a $2 million deficit in its operating funds this year and moving forward. Voters may receive a dualpurpose vote come November, as an operating levy is not out of the question. From now until election day in November, the district will continue to provide the community with an information campaign on the building bond referendum.

Loretta Harding is a contributing writer for Press Publications. She can be reached at news@presspubs.com or 651-407-1200.

SP TTEDAROUND TOWN

1. Anders Sward recently attended a St. Paul Saints game thanks to Press Publications. — Scott Eggert, Contributed 2. Over 50 people showed up for a May Day protest rally against Trump and his Project 2025 policies. Protests happened in the U.S. and around the world. Heidi Nelson, contributed 3.

Bear Lake’s Aurora Urgent Veterinary Clinic was one of many booths at the Animal Humane Society’s Walk for Animals on Saturday, May 3 at the State Fairgrounds. — Shannon Granholm, Press Publications

Ice ridges:

What are they, and what can you do?

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Picture this scenario. It’s spring, and you’ve returned from vacation to find a large ice sheet pushing against your house, maybe even causing property damage. “What is this,” you wonder, “and what will I do about it?”

This phenomenon is known as an ice ridge. Usually, it is caused by cracks forming in a lake’s ice sheet due to different contraction rates at the top and bottom. When water rises into the cracks and freezes, the sheet expands rapidly. As the weather warms the ice, the sheet expands and is pushed toward the shore. When it collides with the shoreline, the ice scrapes and pushes soil and rocks into mounds—thus creating the titular ridge.

“This winter was a very severe year for ice ridge formation on Forest Lake and elsewhere,” said Dan Scollan, groundwater protection hydrologist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “Other lakes I know that have been affected quite significantly are Big Green Lake and Big Carnelian Lake, though not nearly as extensive as here on Forest Lake.”

According to Scollan, a lack of snow cover across a lake is one of the main factors that lead to ice ridge formation. “That snow cover is important, because it insulates the ice from temperature fluctuations. “When you don’t have snow cover, the ice is really prone to swings in temperature.”

The size of the lake can also affect how much damage an ice ridge can cause.“Some studies have said that if you have a lake that’s maybe less than a half a mile across, you’re probably not gonna have enough ice to cause much damage on the soil,” added Scollan. “On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you have a lake that’s greater than a mile and a half across, you’re

going to have some weak zones in that ice. It’s kind of this medium zone, between half a mile and a mile and a half, which seems to be where you get your most severe ice ridges.”

Despite their potential severity, ice ridges offer some benefits. One way they help lakes is by filtering runoff from a watershed, which can improve water quality. Ice ridges can also reduce shoreline erosion by forming natural seawalls.

Through the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District (CLFLWD), homeowners can access resources and programs for restoring shorelines damaged by ice ridges. These include site visits, shoreline assessments and financial assistance through grants. The district offers financial and technical support for replacing riprap —large stones or rocks used for shoreline stabilization — as well as for natural and bioengineered restoration and planting trees and shrubs along shorelines.

“We have a permitting program that deals with construction, erosion and sediment control,” said Lead Management Specialist Aidan Read. “Our cost-share program is specifically designed to help residents improve water quality and habitats, typically through small projects, including shoreline restorations.”

The district’s mini-grants are intended for smaller restoration projects, which Read says are for residents who are doing their own native planting or hiring contractors for assistance. “You can’t use this to install a riprap shoreline, but say you want to add that native planting afterward; this would be a really good use for that. Otherwise, this would be something that’s suitable for shoreline trees, shrubs or any other water quality or habitat project you might have.”

The district’s Shoreline Habitat Incentive Program features grants aimed at those planting larger vegetation, such as trees and shrubs. It is also structured as a flat-rate incentive program. “If you

CONTRUBUTED Ice ridges form on shorelines due to ice expansion, which pushes the soil and creates mounds or ridges.

want to plant a tree on your shoreline, we will pay you a set amount depending on the size of that tree,” said Read. “This is nice for someone looking for a small do-it-yourself project.” The project cost depends on how much square footage is planted and the number of trees and shrubs installed.

The Community Water Cost Share’s grants are for those who wish to rebuild their shoreline protection from scratch. Though competitive, the grants are tailored for larger shoreline projects and cover up to 75% of their cost. “This is well suited for people who are sick of a rock shoreline and want to start over,” said Read, adding that the grants will also work for turf shorelines as well.

More information on the district’s grant and restoration opportunities can be found online at www.clflwd.org/native-plantings-and-shorelinerestorations/.

Staff Writer Erik Suchy can be reached at 651-4071229 or vadnaisnnews@presspubs.com

White

CITY BRIEF

S E R V I C E D I

Watering restrictions now in place

Per city code in White Bear Lake, no person shall irrigate between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30. The city of Vadnais Heights has a lawn and landscape watering policy that was updated because of the White Bear Lake lawsuit. (Previously, the city used an every-otherday schedule.)

Vadnais Heights residents are permitted to water their lawns for one weekday and one weekend day per week. Zone A may water on Monday and Saturday; Zone B may water on Tuesday and Saturday; Zone C may water on Wednesday and Sunday; and Zone D may water on Thursday and Sunday. (See zone map for more information.) No watering may occur between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., even on the permitted days.

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

Patricia Ann (Holl) Johnson

September 22, 1932 –April 25, 2025.

Patricia Ann (Holl) Johnson of Vadnais Heights, born September 22, 1932, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025. Patricia found peace and love in Jesus, her deep Catholic Faith, and her family. She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Wayne “Wings” Johnson; parents, Frederick and Mary Holl; siblings, Fr. James Holl, Aileen Koenen, John Holl, Eugene “Freddy” (Vivian) Holl, Rita Willmus. Patricia is survived by her children, Col. Patrick (Laura) Johnson USAF, retired, Nancy (Mark) Wolfe, Ofc. Robert (Mary Jo) Johnson, New Hope PD, retired, Susan (Todd) Bowman; grandchildren, Michael (Alison), Katherine (Daren), David (Tyler), Kevin, Sarah (Brad), Jon, Nicholas, Timothy, Carolyn, Patrick; great-grandchildren, Eva, Kristian, Isla, Max, Leah, Ben, Ethan; brothers-inlaw, Andy Koenen, Dr. Thomas Willmus. Special thanks to Our Lady of Peace Hospice Care for the loving and wonderful care she received. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Our Lady of Peace, 2076 St. Anthony Ave., St. Paul, 55104. Mass of Christian Burial 11am Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at St. Mary of the Lake Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake, MN. Visitation will begin at 10am at the church. Burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at 2pm.

Colleen Marie Payette

(née Burrill), age 71, passed away on April 19, 2025, in White Bear Lake, Minn. Born on June 12, 1953, in St. Paul, Minn., Colleen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bruce Payette. She is survived by her brothers Bruce Burrill (Kathy) and Dennis Burrill; her niece Sarah Mavrelis; and her nephew Matt Burrill. A memorial service will be held at Christ the King Lutheran Church at 1660 Birch Lake Avenue, White Bear Lake, Minn. on May 8, 2025. Visitation at 10:00 AM; service at 11:00 AM; Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.

White

Bear Lake Rotary ACADEMIC

ACHIEVER

Rotary Matters wblrotary1@comcast.net

Marilyn L. Muellner

Age 89 of White Bear Lake passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children and grandchildren in Tucson, AZ. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, James and is greatly missed by him and her 3 children: Jon Charles of Port Angeles, WA; Todd James (Jennifer) of Oro Valley, AZ, and Beth Ann (Martin Lubell) Muellner of Wooster, OH and her 5 grandchildren: Peri Muellner, Todd (Sara) Hickethier, Mathew (Layne) Muellner, Julien (Anna) Lubell & Xavier Lubell. Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 11 am at St. Mary of the Lake Church, WBL, visitation an hour prior. Interment Church Cemetery.

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

Tom Tuchfarber

age 75, long time resident of White Bear Lake, passed away April 22, 2025. Survived by and deeply loved by his sister, Sue Tuchfarber, and brother, Chuck Tuchfarber.

He graduated from White Bear Lake High School, Class of 1967 and the University of Montana, Class of 1971. His wishes were that there not be a service or celebration of life. Tom strongly supported “Breakthrough T1D”, formerly JDRF, a fight against Type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Joyce Alyce Potter

(1938-2025)

Muriel Iva (Johnson) Paulson

Stella Hadley Lakeaires Elementary School

Stella is a delightful student who exemplifies curiosity, kindness, perseverance, selfmotivation, and outstanding attention to detail. No matter the task, she approaches it with determination, enthusiasm, and a true love of learning. She consistently excels by seeking deep understanding and pushing beyond expectations. A natural leader and strong communicator, Stella inspires others, whether organizing classroom plays, volunteering to lend a helping hand, leading challenge groups, or supporting her peers. Outside the classroom, she shines in softball, basketball, school plays, and on the LNN News team. Stella is a true asset to the White Bear learning community, leading with heart and making Lakeaires Elementary School a better place every single day.

Rotary seeking ditch cleanup volunteers

Muriel went home to be with Jesus, April 26, 2025, at 8:45 p.m. She was born to Elmer and Dora Johnson on June 20, 1936, in Beaver Township Polk County, Wisconsin. She loved family and was part of a family of six kids. She had two older sisters, Evelyn and Maxine, two older brothers, Elmer Jr.and Ellsworth, and one younger brother, David. She graduated from Balsam Lake High School in 1954. While roller skating with her two older brothers, Junior and Ells, she met the love of her life, Ivan Paulson. She didn’t like the name Ivan so she told him she would call him Ike, which she did. They were married on September 24th, 1955. They began life together in Shakopee, MN, where Muriel was a bookkeeper for a local garage. In 1957, they became parents to Kerwin. Now Muriel’s focus was first a wife and then a mother. Pamela came 21 months later in 1958, Sharon in 1962, and Valerie in 1970. Muriel’s desire was to instill faith in Jesus in her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Muriel loved to sew, bake, and help out in the church they were attending. Her sewing skills were evident in the look-alike dresses and pajamas. Her love of baking was enjoyed by family, especially her homemade bread, cookies, a special chocolate cake, and later her special cut-up birthday cakes with the yummy frosting. In the churches they attended, she served in many capacities: Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, Deaconess, Confirmation teacher, Mother’s Club leader as well as singing in the choir. She worked in the fabric shop in North Branch and then as a bookkeeper for Stacy TV while holding down her job as our mother and then a grandmother. Later in life, she and our Dad became short-term missionaries with Revival Fires and World Mission Alliance traveling to Jordan, Israel, Syria, Egypt (where she rode a camel), China, and Russia. She would give her testimony and hand out Bibles. At home, she was a member of the Gideons Auxiliary. She and Dad passed out Gideon Bibles at the county fairs. Her career as our mother and grandmother led her to host many holiday parties and birthday celebrations.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ivan Paulson; parents, Elmer and Dora Johnson; sister, Evelyn (Bert) Amonett; brothers, Elmer Jr. (Darlene) Johnson, and Ellsworth (Arlene) Johnson; brother-in-law, Donald Berndt; in-law parents, Newell and Hertha Paulson; brothers-inlaw, Carl Paulson and Alvin Paulson, and sister-inlaw, Phyllis Paulson.

She is survived by her children, Kerwin (Cindy) Paulson, Pamela (David) Nyquist, Sharon (Steve) Jennisch, and Valerie (Erik) Johnson. Her grandchildren, Melissa (Scott) Peterson, Adam (Lynnea) Paulson, Katie (Adam) Bergdahl, Joshua (Mesa) Nyquist, Joseph (Sharon) Nyquist, Mary (Tim) Peterson, Stephanie (Phil) Hugill, Brandon (Sara) Jennisch, Logan Johnson, Cole (Olivia) Johnson, and 19 great grandchildren; sister, Maxine Berndt; brother, David (Judy) Johnson, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at Main Street Church in North Branch. Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Grandstrand Funeral Home on Thursday, May 15, 2025 and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Family interment will take place at Fridsborg Cemetery in East Bethel at a later date.

The Whtie Bear Lake Rotary is seeking volunteers to help clean up a portion of Highway 36 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 17. Volunteers will meet in the parking lot of Redeeming Love Church, located at 2425 White Bear Ave. The Rotary’s stretch of Highway 36 runs from White Bear Avenue to Highway 61.

Volunteers will be assigned a section and should wear sturdy shoes/boots, gloves, hats. Bug spray is also encouraged.

LEGISLATIVE BREAKFEST: Opportunity to hear from elected officials

FROM PAGE 2

“My hope is to continue to work bipartisan with the House as well to make sure that we get done the things we promised we would get done,” she said.

Fischer (District 44A)

This has been a “very different session,” Fischer says. “There’s only been one time in history before where we have had shared power, and so it makes things a little interesting because we are really not in the majority, but we are not in the minority, either,” he said. “The big focus that we have is trying to figure out where can we find common ground to get things done.”

In some areas, like behavioral health, he said there has been bipartisan support, but other areas have been more difficult on the environmental side. Fischer explained that the House has decided to separate its policy and finance bills, rather than lumping them together. He described the upcoming finance bill as a “lights on only” bill.

“If you are tracking legislation, this is the time of the legislative cycle that you’ve got to really pay close attention, because it might not be in the House, but the Senate might have it,” Fischer cautioned.

County commissioners County commissioners spoke about county priorities and how those often can align with what the state has going on.

Jebens-Singh (Ramsey County District 1)

“The laws and policies that are passed at the state Legislature impact the work that we do with the county,” she said. “About a third of our budget is passed through intergovernmental transfers back and forth, so all the work that we collectively do, and the different levels of government do have to interlock and work together.”

Jebens-Singh said there is a “high level of uncertainty” the county is working under right now, which makes things even more challenging. County concerns

include changing policies, mandates, cost shifts and cost cuts on both the state and federal level.

According to the Association of Minnesota Counties, a recent estimate says that Ramsey County would likely need to increase its property tax levy by 4.7% just to account for the cuts proposed in health and human services.

On a federal level, cuts are already impacting the county. “We are very concerned about anticipated Medicaid cuts,” she said. “It would be difficult for our long-term care for our older adults. It’s the number one provider of funds for our substance abuse treatment programs. It would be devastating for mental health and for young families across the state.”

She urged legislators to keep in mind the stories behind the numbers they are talking about.

“It’s our workers who are losing affordable child care because Head Start dollars are on the cutting block; it’s the banker who … is concerned about his small businesses; it’s a Rotarian who (is) concerned about his Ukrainian neighbors who are here seeking safety while their country is at war… ; it is the undersheriff who didn’t advocate for extra dollars or more staff; she advocated for us to invest in more mental health beds for the individuals who are languishing in adult detention centers. And it’s Justin, a 26-year-old man with cerebral palsy, who currently lives independently and, in his words, ‘I’m waiting for my world to implode.’”

Miller (Ramsey County District 7)

Miller said this legislative session, something Ramsey County has been excited about is its bill asking for a change to the Housing Redevelopment Authority levy.

“The levy would support small businesses,” she explained, adding that it would not increase taxes. “We are responding directly from local business community requests for a stronger county partnership … The focus areas

would include building capacity for small businesses and organizations. It would also expand technical assistance to businesses and then provide flexible capital for business retention, expansion and attraction.”

Cities will need to decide whether to opt in or not, but many cities have already demonstrated their support, including White Bear Lake, Roseville, Shoreview, Little Canada, Falcon Heights and Lauderdale.

Miller explained the legislation is included in the Senate’s local government and elections omnibus bill, which has already passed. Although it is not included in a House bill, Milelr said she is hopeful it will be included in the Conference Committee.

Miron (Washington County District 1) Miron said workforce development continues to be a priority for the county, which now has partnerships with Forest Lake Area Schools and Stillwater Public Schools.

“A lot of our Career Pathway programming relies on business owners to provide that opportunity to our kids,” Miron explained. “There’s been a lot of changes required in both federal and state law to allow these young kids to work in the workplace and operate equipment with training. So often the laws restrict that type of thing and make it very difficult for these kids to get into

the area where they want to work.”

The county continues to monitor costs shifting to the county level.

Miron said the county understands the “predicament” the state is in regarding federal funding, but if that is shifted onto the county, it has the potential to greatly impact the county’s levy.

“Cost shifts could range anywhere from 3 to 5% at the state level, and you couple that with increasing wages, benefits and associated costs to inflation, at the county level we are potentially looking at a 7% increase,” Miron said. “I can tell you that within Washington County, that’s because we’ve managed our money well. You are going to see more significant increases in other counties, and I’m talking about potentially double-digit increases in other counties’ levies.”

An ongoing priority for the county is investment in its trails and parks system. Rep. Patti Anderson (District 33A) has authored a bill to fill a one-mile gap in the Hardwood Creek Trail that would connect Washington County to Ramsey County’s Bruce Vento Trail, and Anoka County’s Chain of Lakes Trail.

The county also has plans for the Central Gateway Trail and the Glacial Hills Regional Trail. “We will continue to work on those things as funding is available,” Miron said.

3 REASONS NOT TO GO TO THE DENTIST! (AND 3 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD!) COST

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

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

PAIN

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

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Pictured (from left) are: Commissioner Kelly Miller, Rep. Brion Curran, Rep. Peter Fischer, Sen. Heather Gustafson, Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh and Commissioner Fran Miron.