White Bear Press by Press Publications

Fridays with Firefighters

White Bear Lake Firefighter/Paramedic Alex Weil helps Kacey Roth direct a high pressure flow of water toward a target during a recent Fridays with Firefighters event. The next installment of the family-friendly summertime program is scheduled for 10 a.m to noon Friday, July 10.

Voting begins: Best of contest is here

The nominations are in, and voting is open for Press Publications’ annual Best of the Press Readers’ Choice contest.

Community members will vote for a wide variety of their favorites, including restaurants, doctors, schools, artists, services, events and much more.

This year’s contest features more than 149 categories, including eight new categories: sweet shop, chicken wings, brat/hot dog, mocktail at a bar or restaurant, meal for the money, apple orchard, electrician company and dispensary.

New categories

• Sweet shop Chicken wings

• Brat/hot dog

• Mocktail at a bar or restaurant

• Meal for the money

• Apple orchard

• Electrician company

• Dispensary

The contest helps recognize exceptional businesses, Press Publications General Manager Patty Steele said. Winning a badge adds credibility to a business for someone making a buying decision.

“Six years strong and readers still love to vote for their favorites in the local communities, and businesses love to be recognized by their customers,” Steele said. “It’s also a great guide for our readers to take a look at the top three and decide to try somewhere new they might not have otherwise tried.”

The contest continues to gain popularity each year. Voting is available 24/7 on the Press Publications website at presspubs.com/white_bear/bestof. Each reader may vote once per day.

Voting ends at 5 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 2.

Winners and finalists will be recognized in a special section the first week of October. Winners will also be posted online.

A painting a day: A lifetime of painting with Frank Kuettel

BY GRAHAM JOHNSON CONTRIBUTING WRITER

It all started with the Nina, the Pinta and the Santa Maria.

A nun noticed a then-sixth grade Frank Kuettel’s drawing of Columbus’ three ships on the blackboard and told his mother he had a gift for drawing. Eight decades later, Frank continues to draw and paint each and every day with the paintings stacked six-deep against the walls of his apartment, at the landings of his New Perspectives home in White Bear Lake, in two separate storage units, and in the homes of his children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren.

Frank’s works are mostly watercolor views of forests, north shore landscapes, mountains, streams and flowers in anatomical detail from beneath the watchful gaze of a portrait he painted of his now late-wife, Nancy.

“I find painting very therapeutic,” said Frank with a shrug about the habit.

Frank took art classes on the weekends after being pointed out by the nun. He would eventually go on to graduate with a fine arts degree from what is now the Minneapolis College of Art and Design before launching into a career of commercial art across some the biggest companies in Minnesota like 3M, the St. Paul

SEE FROM LOGOS TO LANDSCAPES, PAGE 10

ROSEANNE TRIPI | CONTRIBUTED

Frank Kuettel poses alongside his great-granddaughter Aria with floral watercolors in his studio.

VADNAIS HEIGHTS MUSIC IN THE PARK

When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 8

Where: Lily Pond Park, 325 Lily Pond Lane

Details: Free outdoor concert featuring the St. Peter Street Stompers. Seating provided or bring your own. Come at 5:30 for free mini yoga, and visit with Mayor Krachmer prior to concert. Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com/264/Music-in-thePark-Series

RAMSEY COUNTY DISTRICT ONE PICNIC

When: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, July 9

Where: Snail Lake County Park, 4191 Snail Lake Blvd., Shoreview

Details: Commissioner Tara Jebens-Singh hosts community picnic with food and beverages, resource table, and the Serenity Mental Health bus. Contact: tara.jebenssingh@ramseycountymn.gov

FRIDAYS WITH FIREFIGHTERS

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, July 10

Where: White Bear Lake South Fire Station, 2240 County Road E Details: Get outside for free activities and fire safety education.

Contact: whitebearlakemn.gov

SUMMER SIGNINGS

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, July 10 during the Farmers Market.

Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake

Details: Authors Dean Hovey and D.L. Dixon will sign copies of their latest collaboration “Woke Up Dead,” #13 in the Pine County mystery series; and Laurie Lynnsee with sign copies of “The Song Calls,” the first in a new mystery series co-written with A.W. Powers. Contact: lakecountrybooksellers.com

When: 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, July 11

Where: Lions Park, 4410 Lake Ave. S, White Bear Lake

Details: The mayor will visit parks in each ward over the summer/fall to chat with residents about ideas, questions, concerns or just conversation. Drop-in event.

Contact: 651-429-8526

ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB

When: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, July 12

Where: Keller Regional Park, shelter #3

Details: Three-mile hike on paved trail followed by annual potluck picnic.

Contact: stpaulhike.com

BIRCHWOOD MUSIC IN THE PARK

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 12

Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park, Birchwood

Details: Artrio, comprised of three local bassoonists, perform an eclectic program featuring ancient, classical, contemporary, jazz and new music from around the world. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. At city hall in case of rain.

Contact: cityofbirchwood.com

THE MUSIC OF THE BEACH BOYS

When: 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, July 12

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

Details: Pet Sounds Live presents the music of the Beach Boys. Ticket information online.

Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

BOBBER-STYLE FISHING CAMP

When: 10 a.m.-noon Monday, July 13 – Wednesday, July 15 and Monday July 27 to Wednesday, July 29

Where: Tally's Dockside, 4441 Lake Ave. S.

Details: Kids who have completed grades 1-5 can experience the fun of “bobber-style” catch and release fishing at various spots around White Bear Lake with a guide. Equipment provided to bring your own. Registration required. Contact: 651-407-2018 or communityed.mahtomedi.k12. mn.us

VADNAIS HEIGHTS MUSIC IN THE PARK

When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 15

Where: Thunder Bay/Westwinds Park, Thunder Bay Road, Little Canada

Details: Outdoor concert featuring the Kendra Glenn Band, in coordination with the City of Little Canada. Seating provided or bring your own. Come at 5:30 for mini yoga, and visit with Mayor Krachmer prior to concert.

Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com/264/Music-in-thePark-Series

Rooting for us

Arecent article in the White Bear Press about a local Revolutionary War connection sparked a grade school history lesson memory. When I was in about third or fourth grade, I shared with the teacher that one of the ancestors on my family tree had fought at the battle of Bunker Hill during The Revolutionary War. She expressed skepticism and suggested that maybe I was making it up. I told my mother what happened after I got home from school and she proceeded to find a newspaper clipping that I could use to help verify the ancestral connection. If I remember correctly, the gist of the article was about how Josiah Pierce, an ancestor on my mother's side of the family, travelled a considerable distance (at the time) to attend an anniversary gathering of the historic battle. Mom placed the yellowed newspaper clipping in an envelope and allowed me to take it to school — with the promise that I would treat it with care and keep it safe. The teacher responded graciously when I showed her the clipping and encouraged me to use it for a future show and tell session.

With surprising and sometimes humbling results, I've occasionally shared family history with friends and colleagues. I recall sharing with a former editor in the newsroom about the ancestor on my family tree who fought at the battle of Bunker Hill. He politely listened and then shared that his wife (who was originally from the east coast) could trace her ancestry back to the family that owned the land (actually Breed's Hill) where the historic battle took place. After reading the book “Mayflower: A Story of Community, Courage, and War” by Nathaniel Philbrick, I shared with a colleague that an ancestor on my mother's side of the family tree was a passenger on the Mayflower. She shared that she also had an ancestral connection to that time in history and was a descendant of Massasoit, the chief of the Wampanoag tribe who befriended the Pilgrims. According to Philbrick, the Pilgrims likely would have perished during the first winter without the assistance of Massasoit. As it was, nearly half of the colony died during the first winter, including my ancestor Thomas Rogers. His children survived and were most likely adopted by William Bradford.

One of my favorite TV shows is “Finding Your Roots” with Henry Louis Gates Jr. Throughout the run of the show, the Harvard professor has presented detailed family histories to numerous famous and notable people ranging from America Ferrera to Sharon Stone, who was quite surprised to discover that she was a direct descendant of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor. A recent interview with Professor Gates revealed that researching genealogical history is complicated and the findings are not always good news. He said that he has an ethics protocol. If something is discovered that will forever change someone's understanding of their family, he won't surprise them but will reach out first to ask if they want to know. Secret affairs and involvement in the slave trade are among the surprise findings that have required the use of the ethics protocol. As an example of how personal family history can be complicated; along with researching direct lineage going back to the Mayflower and the Revolutionary War, my father also discovered a branch of our family tree that includes the notorious Benedict Arnold. Reading well researched historical books like “Mayflower” have helped me keep ancestoral heritage in perspective. I find that when a more complex and detailed explanation of the myths we grew up with is revealed, it can help to better comprehend the complicated and messy period of history we're currently experiencing and maybe help infuse us with the strength and perspective we need to successfully move forward.

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238.

OPINION

WMovers & Shakers

Tara Jebens-Singh

hen asked whether the United States would be a republic or a monarchy, Benjamin Franklin famously replied, “A republic, if you can keep it.” In this time of polarization and uncertainty, it is so important to lean into our collective responsibility to preserve our democracy. I encourage us all to remain active, informed and civically engaged. Join me in celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary by exercising your right (and responsibility) to vote in the primary and general elections.

Eligibility and registration

To be eligible to vote in Minnesota, a person must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old on election day, a resident of Minnesota for 20 days, not currently incarcerated for a conviction of a felony offense, and not under guardianship status in which a judge has removed your right to vote. You can register to vote before or on an election day, with proof of identification and residence.

Primary election (Aug. 11)

There are many important primary races for federal, state and lo-

• Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election. Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that.

• Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

cal offices this year. While political party delegates endorse candidates at their conventions, primary election voters ultimately determine which candidates from each party will appear on the general election ballot (Nov. 3). Make your voice heard in both.

Early voting

All voters can vote early in Minnesota. Early in-person voting opened on June 26 at Ramsey County Elections (90 Plato Blvd. W, St. Paul). Two additional early voting locations at the Ramsey County Libraries in Roseville (2180 Hamline Ave. N, Roseville) and Shoreview (4560 Victoria St. N, Shoreview) will be open July 14 through Aug. 10. Voters may use whichever location is most convenient, regardless of the city in which they live. Hours vary by location and date. Please find poll hours, dates and locations for both the primary and general election, and other helpful voting information at www.ramseycountymn.gov/residents/elections-voting.

Vote from home

You do not need to provide a reason to vote by mail. You can request an absentee ballot on the Secretary of State’s website. Please follow all instructions on completing and preparing the ballot, including verification from a witness and proper mail or in-person return of the ballot.

• Letters for or against a candidate will qualify as paid letters. Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification. Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

Letters are meant to express opinions. If letter-writers include facts, they must attribute those facts to a reputable source.

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication. Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same

Voting on election day

On elections day, voters must vote at their assigned polling place. Be sure to look up your polling place in advance at www.pollfinder.sos.mn.gov. Polling places are open from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.

More information about voting in the primary and general election including registration, requesting an absentee ballot, and who is on you ballot can be found on the Minnesota Secretary of State election page mnvotes.gov or by calling 1-877-600-VOTE (8683). For additional questions on voting in Ramsey County please contact the Ramsey County Elections office at 651-266-2171 or Elections@ramseycountymn. gov.

Stay connected

All are welcome at the District One Community Picnic Thursday, July 9 from 6–8 p.m. at Snail Lake County Park (4191 Snail Lake Blvd). Please join us for a family-friendly gathering to connect, eat, hear Ramsey County updates, learn about community resources and visit the Serenity Mental Health Bus. Please RSVP to the picnic by contacting alexis.varner@ramseycounty.us.

Tara Jebens-Singh is Ramsey County Commissioner for District 1. She can be reached at Tara.JebensSingh@ramseycounty.us or 651-2668362.

GUIDELINES

subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits.

Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion. Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

• Letters by campaign managers or candidates designed to champion the candidate’s position on a specific issue will be accepted as paid letters.

• Letters reprinted as part of letter-writing campaigns are paid letters. All letters are subject to editing. We reserve the right to not publish any letter.

• The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication. The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 3 election will be printed in the Oct. 20 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.14. To submit a letter, email news@ presspubs.com or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

Angle of View

Paul Dols

WHITE BEAR / VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | ELECTION LETTER

Responsible governance should be focus

I have lived in and cared deeply about White Bear Lake for more than 30 years. I have always believed that those who sit on the school board do so because they want what is best for our students, staff, and schools. Apparently that is not the case for one current board member whose goal seems to be to disrupt the district.

Board member Dan Skaar has been censured for violations of the Open Meeting Law and the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. If anyone, especially an elected official, doesn’t follow the rules, there should be consequences.

It is entirely appropriate for residents—and school board members—to ask questions and hold the district accountable. At the same time, accountability is most effective when it follows established processes that allow concerns to be reviewed carefully and resolved appropriately. New board members receive training on district policies, governance, and their responsibilities, and those procedures exist for a reason: to ensure concerns are addressed fairly, legally, and effectively. Mr. Skaar did not heed what was taught at the training. School board members are responsible for setting policy and providing oversight, not managing the day-to-day operations of the district. Professional administrators are hired to understand the complexities such as appropriations, enrollment, and revenue figures. Maintaining this distinction is essential because effective governance depends on

POLITICAL BRIEFS

Candidate hosts ‘250’ event in Township Heidi Heino, Republican candidate for Minnesota State Senate District 36, will host a community fundraiser 5 to 9 p.m. July 15 at Polar Lakes Park Amphitheater. The family-friendly event, Celebrate 250: A Night of Faith, Freedom & Family, will include live music with Kayley Bishop, a special message titles

CITY BRIEF

clear roles, trust, and the ability of each part of the organization to do its work.

Claims that the district lacks financial transparency are simply untrue. Comprehensive financial information is publicly available, only a few mouse clicks away to anyone with a computer, their own, or one at a public library. I located detailed financial information on the district’s website in just a few minutes.

Our students, staff, and community deserve a school board that is focused on responsible governance and spending resources in the best way to improve student learning. The best outcomes will come from leaders who ask thoughtful questions, respect established processes, and work together toward the shared goal of supporting our students.

Look at voting record

After reading the piece submitted by State Senator Gustafson, I was confused. Sen. Gustafson claimed she helped secure a reduction in cost for vehicle tabs for one year. The fact is she and every other member of the DFL voted against a standalone bill reducing the cost of vehicle tabs. What passed this past session regarding the tabs was a deal made between leadership in both caucuses with no votes taken by the legislative members.

“Freedom has a Cost” with Gary Borgendale, and live acoustic karaoke. Admission is free. Polar Lakes park is located at 1280 Hammond Road, White Bear Towsnhip. For more information, visit heidiheino.com.

Election season letter guidelines return

Letter writers who want to endorse a candidate or issue on

White Bear Lake publishes revenues, expenses

In this week’s issue, you will find legal notices from the city of White Bear Lake that lay out the city’s revenues and expenditures for 2024 and

Movie in the Park

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Movie begins at dusk 9:00 p.m. FREE ADMISSION

Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and don’t forget bug spray for this FREE, fun and familyfriendly movie night at Polar Lakes Park. Park Opens at 7 p.m.(ish)

Movie hosted by:

the ballot will need to pay a fee to have their letter published. Press Publications’ election letter guidelines state that election season is when filing first begins until the day of the election. Letters not relating to the election are still free. Paid letters longer than 350 words will be charged extra. Paid letter writers must call the front desk 651-407-1200 to arrange payment prior to publication. For the full list of guidelines, see page 4.

2025. The legal notices also include a statement of net positions as well as a statement of cash flows for propriety funds. See the full notices on pages 9, 13 and 24 in the White Bear Press for more information, or find them at presspubs.com/white_ bear/legals.

In the 2024-2025 session controlled by DFL in both chambers, many new taxes and fee increases were passed. Among them are a delivery tax, metro sales tax, increased taxes on cigarettes and cannabis, fuel tax increases, surcharge on prepaid phones, increase fee for driver licenses, and payroll tax increases among others.

Sen. Gustafson claims she wants to make affordability a priority. She may want to look back at her past voting history. Affordability to me is having more money in my pocket to spend as I choose.

Congrats on journalism award

Congratulations on your Page One award! You do an excellent job of finding and covering very interesting and often very touching stories. I am proud that our local newspaper has employees of such a high caliber. Well done!

2026 – 8 AM

Ramsey County Beach, White Bear Lake Register by 9/10 to save on fees!

Help us spread the word! Share this information with your running friends and training groups-let’s make this the biggest Bear Water Run yet! Registration Link: https://endurancecui.active.com/.../96132114/select-race #WhiteBearLakeMN #minnesotarunner #communityRun #RunMN #Lionsclub

Sheryl Bolstad White Bear Lake

Ramona Jwanouskos White Bear Lake

Deb Courts Brown White Bear Lake VFW Post 1782 Auxiliary

COPS&COURTS

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

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

Officers helped free a turkey stuck in a fence in the 3800 block of Linden Avenue June 24.

• Officers responded to a report of a disorderly male in the 3500 block of Century Avenue June 24.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 1700 block of Florence Street June 24.

• Graffiti was found June 24 in the women's bathroom at Spruce Park.

• A Hammond, Wisconsin woman was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop near Interstate 694 and Century Avenue June 25.

• The lock was stolen from the launch pay box at Matoska Park June 25.

• A Stillwater man was mailed a citation for misdemeanor fleeing police on foot after he fled from officers responding to a trespassing call in the 1700 block of Cedar Avenue June 25.

• Officers responded to juvenile incidents June 25 in the 2000 block of Ronald Avenue, the 3800 block of Highland Avenue, and the 1900 block of Florence Street.

• Disorderly conduct was reported June 26 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road.

• A pedestrian on an e-scooter was injured after being hit by a vehicle near the 1000 block of Highway 96 June 26. No citations were issued.

Officers responded to a report of disorderly conduct in the 4700 block of Bald Eagle Avenue June 26.

• On June 26, officers responding to a report of a single vehicle accident in the 4100 block of White Bear Avenue where the driver was witnessed fleeing the scene eventually located and arrested the driver, a White Bear Township man who showed signs of impairment.

• Theft was reported in the 3600 block of East County Line Road June 26.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2600 block of County Road E June 26.

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

• On June 21 on E. County Road E, deputies issued a theft citation to a 26-year-old man from St. Paul after he was caught by Walmart loss prevention employees attempting to leave the store with merchandise for which he did not pay.

• On June 21 in the 700 block of Manor Street, A caller reported a stray dog in the neighborhood. An animal control officer responded, but the dog was gone upon arrival.

• On June 24 in the 1100 block of E. County Road D, deputies located and recovered a blue Chevrolet Silverado that was stolen during a burglary.

• On June 24 in the 3500 block of Centerville Road, a 19-year-old man from Apple Valley reported being bitten on his leg by a dog owned by a 68-year-old man. The older man was notified that Animal Control would follow up with him. The person bitten was not seriously injured.

• On June 26 in the 1200 block of County Road D, a 911 caller reported packages stolen from her front step. The matter is under investigation.

• On June 26 in the 20 block of W. County Road F, deputies collected a small bag with a white, crystallized substance inside that a 40-year-old man found in a Porta Potty. The incident is under investigation.

• At 6:59 p.m. on June 27 on E. County Road E, deputies issued a theft citation to a 37-year-old man from St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, after loss prevention employees at Walmart caught him pretending to scan and pay for merchandise in the self-checkout aisle.

• At 10:46 p.m. on June 27 on E. County Road E, a 71-year-old man report-

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 1900 block of Orchard Lane June 26.

• A Maplewood man was arrested for DWI following a traffic stop neat Seventh Street and Highway 61 June 26.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 1700 block of County Road E June 26.

• Officers responded to a dispute June 27 in the 1400 block of Park Street.

• Multiple dogs were found to be off leash at Matoska Park June 27 and 28, and owners were warned.

• Damage to property was reported June 27 in the 5200 block of Northwest Avenue.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2500 block of Elm Drive June 27.

• Theft was reported June 27 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. and the 1900 block of Buerkle Road.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue June 27.

• Officers responded to a domestic incident in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road June 27.

• Harassment was reported in the 1800 block of Buerkle Road June 28.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 4100 block of White Bear Avenue June 28.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 4700 block of Centerville Road June 28.

• A Zip-loc bag containing white powder that was found in the bathrooms in the 4800 block of Lake Avenue June 28 turned out to be a bar of soap.

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident around Carolyn Lane and Seventh Street June 28.

• Theft was reported in the 2100 block of Orchard Lane June 28.

• A driver reported being followed by a Tesla after an altercation near County Road E and Bellaire June 28. The Tesla moved on after the driver pulled into the WBLPD lot.

• A male was reported loitering at a business in the 4800 block of Highway 61 June 28.

• Harassment was reported in the 2100 block of Floral

ed that his credit card was stolen and used without his permission to purchase gift cards. The matter is under investigation.

White

Bear Township

• On June 22 in the 1600 block of Stillwater Street, deputies assisted medics with a 33-year-old man who had apparently fallen off an E-bike. He was transported to a relative’s home.

• On June 23 in the 2300 block of Taylor Avenue, deputies responded to a report of a vehicle blocking the road with a driver who was aggressive towards people when they asked him to move. When deputies arrived, the 74-year-old man from St. Paul who was behind the wheel told them he was experiencing a medical incident and was transported to a hospital for evaluation and treatment.

• On June 25 in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive, deputies issued theft citations to a 28-yearold woman from Lakeville and a 33-year-old man from Little Canada after they were caught by Cub Foods employees attempting to leave the store with plastic bags they’d filled with frozen goods.

• On June 25 in the 5600 block of Otter View Trail, deputies arrested a 19-year-old man from St. Paul after he violated a protection order after he messaged and visited a 19-yearold woman from White Bear Lake and pushed her during an argument.

On June 27 at the intersection of E. County Road F and E. County Line Road, deputies responded to a report of a Kia Soul that hit a stop sign and drove onto a bike path. After collecting a bumper and other debris, they located the 79-year-old driver who may have suffered a medical incident while driving. He was transported to a hospital for evaluation and treatment.

Drive June 28.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for DWI following a driving complaint in the 3100 block of White Bear Avenue June 28.

• Criminal sexual conduct was reported in the 3900 block of Hoffman Road June 28.

• A dispute between neighbors was reported near Hazel Street and Dotte Drive June 29.

• Fraud was reported in the 3700 block of Midland Avenue June 29.

• Officers responded to a report of an unhoused party who refused to leave a business in the 4900 block of Highway 61 June 29.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for an order for protection violation and an outstanding warrant after officers responded to a report of an in-progress domestic assault at a Hoffman Road residence June 29.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested June 29 in the 3600 block of Highland Avenue for his outstanding gross misdemeanor DWI warrants.

• Theft was reported June 29 at a business in the 900 block of Wildwood Road.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 3300 block of Bellaire Avenue June 29.

• Officers took a missing persons report in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue June 30.

• A Maplewood man was arrested after officers located a vehicle wanted in connection to a domestic assault case on Banning Avenue June 30.

• A man was arrested for an active felony warrant after officers responded to a welfare check in the 3100 block of White Bear Avenue June 30.

• Officers responded to a domestic dispute in the 3500 block of Century Avenue June 30.

• Officers mediated a dispute in the 1900 block of Webber Street June 30.

• A fireworks complaint was reported in the 2000 block of County Road F June 30.

• Vandalism was reported June 29 at Spruce Park and Lakewood Hills Park.

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:

Birchwood Village

• In the Case of the Filibustering Fido, Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies mailed a citation to a Birchwood Avenue resident, following a report at 12:03 a.m. June 3 of a dog barking for an extended period that night. After listening on scene and confirming a violation of the noise ordinance, deputies could not contact the resident.

Grant

• The driver of a red pickup truck received a written warning at 2:21 a.m. May 31 for operating a vehicle without license plates on a public road, after deputies westbound on Highway 36 spotted the vehicle at Lake Elmo Avenue N. without any plates. The owner of the vehicle, who sat in the passenger seat, produced a bill of sale for the truck and said he was waiting for the title so that he could register the vehicle in his name.

• Deputies on routine patrol at 4 a.m. June 2 cited a driver on Manning Avenue N. at 97th Street N. for a equipment violation after observing the vehicle with no rear lights activated.

• At 9:34 p.m. June 3, deputies assisted a motorist in the 11000 block of 60th Street N. with a wheel that had come off while driving.

A motorist on 75th Street N. at Keats Avenue N. was arrested and caught the book at 10:51 p.m. June 4, after deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle failing to maintain a lane while the driver was using a wireless device. The vehicle fled deputies before losing control into a ditch. The violations included DWI, fleeing, reckless driving and drug possession.

• A motorist on Manning Trail N. and 115th Street N. was warned at midnight June 5 for speeding. Residents in the 10000 block of 65th Street N. on June 5 reported ongoing trespassing by golfers encroaching onto their property to look for lost golf balls. Deputies advised the golf course management of the issue.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited on westbound Highway 36 for speeding 88 mph in a 65-mph zone by deputies on stationary patrol at 2:36 a.m. June 6 who clocked the vehicle on radar. Deputies said the driver apologized for his speed and chuckled a bit. The chuckling driver’s attitude was described as “good.”

Mahtomedi

• A scooter was reported stolen from a Mahtomedi Avenue address on May 31.

• A motorist on Stillwater Road and Hilton Trail N. was cited May 31 for overtaking other traffic against a double yellow line.

• Two hungry people were made to leave Katherine Abbott Park on Lincolntown Avenue at 12:19 a.m. June 1, after patrolling deputies encountered their vehicle in the park after hours. The occupants of the vehicle stated they were just eating. Deputies shooed them home since one of them was out past curfew and parks were closed.

• Following a complaint about loud music coming from Wedgewood Park at 10:07 p.m. June 1, deputies found a party walking in the park with a speaker and children before advising them to leave due to the park being closed.

• Mahtomedi residents reported their property damaged June 3 and wanted the person who caused it banned from the premises. Deputies went to suspect’s residence and issued the trespass order in person.

White Bear Lake Conservation District looks ahead while trimming 2027 budget

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

The White Bear Lake Conservation District’s 2027 budget has been reduced by approximately $6,000 from the 2026 budget, which will translate to smaller assessments for the communities within the district.

Mike Parenteau, treasurer/secretary for the district, noted that the city of White Bear Lake’s assessment will be reduced by $4,160. “It’s a happy budget,” he said.

Mayor Mary Nicklawske asked about the formula used to determine each community’s assessment to the district.

“You pay the most because you have the highest tax capacity, but per person you pay the least because you have more citizens,” Parenteau explained. He added that a resident in the city of White Bear Lake pays 79 cents per year compared to a resident in Dellwood who pays 2.48 cents per year.

Council Member Kevin Edberg said, “I really appreciate … the work that went into the budget, the growth in interest earnings that have come during your term as treasurer. I appreciate the work that you are doing.”

Nicklawske also wondered whether Parenteau was happy with the city of White Bear Lake having two representatives serving on the board, or if three would be better. Parenteau said he would love to have three, but that would require a change in legislation.

Parenteau reported that all the dock permits for the 2026 season are now approved and the district has shifted its focus to annual treatment protocols. On June 25, the district was scheduled to do a survey around the lake to look for Eurasian watermilfoil.

“Last year, we hit about 400 GPS sites on that survey,” Parenteau said. A total of 30.8 acres of the lake was treated in 2025 for Eurasian watermilfoil, which is about average. That survey will determine how much acreage is in need of treatment, and after a permit is secured (after July 4), the treatment will be scheduled. Two to three weeks after the treatment, a survey crew will return to the lake to see if there are any areas in need of further treatment.

The district continues to do monthly checks, mainly at the boat launches, for the invasive species Starry Stonewort. Parenteau noted that most of the lakes where Starry Stonewort has been discovered, it was located at the boat launch.

This August or September, Parenteau will offer up his pontoon so experts from the University of Minnesota can conduct a survey looking for phragmites.

• A motorist failing to stop at the stop sign at East Avenue and Stillwater Road was cited June 5 for that violation.

Pine Springs

BY THE NUMBERS

Ramsey County Water Patrol Unit 2025 Recap

hours spent patrolling on White Bear Lake boat safety checks completed assists to boaters written citations written warnings verbal warnings tows

BWIs (boaating while intoxicated)

ensure the watercraft itself was safe, not necessarily the person operating it.

Parenteau noted the watershed district does have an ordinance that prohibits unsafe behavior or erratic driving of watercraft. As of July 1, 2025, Minnesota began phasing in a law that requires younger operators to have a valid watercraft operator’s permit.

• As of July 1, 2026, people born on or after July 1, 2000, are required to have a permit;

• As of July 1, 2027, people born on or after July 1, 1996, are required to have a permit;

• As of July 1, 2028, people born on or after July 1, 1987, are required to have a permit.

“Anyone driving erratically should be turned in. The sheriff would be glad to confiscate things and give them a ticket,” Parenteau said.

Edberg wanted to know what the biggest issue would be in the near future for the conservation district. Parenteau said the district does its best to plan for things and pointed out the recently completed lake use study. The district has also begun the process to update its Lake Management Plan, a process it has not gone through since 1999.

“It’s hard to plan ahead for how many docks you are going to have or how many boats people are going to have on a dock or how much milfoil we are going to have other than setting aside money to treat it and we do that,” he said. “So many things we have to react on; we are reactionary.”

He added that the board does its best job to “keep the peace.” “We want people to enjoy the lake, keep it clean, fresh and safe.”

City Manager Lindy Crawford pointed out that the city receives a lot of complaints regarding jet ski rentals on the lake. “We try to combat that when we can when its operating on a city property, but if it is off of Ramsey County property, the city doesn’t have much weight there,” she said. “Are there any approvals needed from those private rental companies from the conservation district?”

Parenteau noted that Ramsey County does not allow jet ski rentals on its beach and Crawford added that the city also doesn’t allow that at Matoska Beach.

“If they are renting it at a sporting goods store in St. Paul, there is really nothing you can do about it, but they should have a sheriff’s sticker on it. Anyone who is in the rental business needs to have that for any watercraft they rent,” Parenteau explained. “If it has that, it means they have passed all the tests and requirements to be safe.” Crawford pointed out that it was her understanding that sticker was more so to

• A westbound motorist was cited for failure to carry proof of insurance at 12:37 a.m. May 31 following a traffic stop for speeding on Highway 36 and Hilton Trail N. and failing to maintain just one lane while doing it.

Willernie

• A motorist ignoring the stop sign at the intersection of Stillwater Road and Warner Avenue N. was cited at 11:23 p.m. June 5 for that violation. 388 108 22 7 10 199 6 0

• Deputies dispatched out to a residence on Stillwater Road June 5 had a back-and-forth discussion with the complainant about a potentially stolen vehicle. The caller gradually came to realize that the vehicle had been repossessed due to failure to make payments and was not stolen.

White Bear Lake Area

Edberg pointed out that recently, the council has had discussion on short-term rentals, and he questioned whether there was a connection between the people renting out their homes for short term uses and people renting out watercraft.

Parenteau said he wasn’t sure the two were necessarily connected, as he knows of some people who do not live on the lake, but have a dock space and rent out their boat from the dock.

“We would like to get a handle on it. It’s not a big problem, but it’s happening,” he said.

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

Church Directory

OBITUARIES

Allan “Jocko” & Carol Wilke

Allan “Jocko” Wilke, age 93, of Vadnais Heights, MN passed away June 17, 2026. Born April 5, 1933. Carol “Cuts” Wilke, age 81, of Vadnais Heights, MN, passed away October 22, 2014. Born November 10, 1932. Preceded in death by sons, Thomas Wilke, Donald Wilke, and Scott Wilke. Survived by sons, David Wilke, Rick (Kathy) Wilke, Gary (Pam) Wilke, and Stephen Wilke. www.BradshawFuneral.com 651-407-8300.

Jeffrey L. Peterson

Age 75 of White Bear Lake. Passed away on June 29. Preceded by parents, Chet & Marj; and brother, Steve. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, & grandfather by his wife, Kathy; sons Brandon (Jackie) & Ryan (Ashley); and grandchildren Kira, Theodore, & Amelia.

Visitation for Jeff will begin at 2:00 PM on Saturday, July 11, followed by a Celebration of Life at 4:00 PM, both at MUELLER MEMORIAL, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake.

Obituaries celebrate and honor unique

To Submit an obit Email obits@presspubs.com Call 651-407-1225

Visit us at 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN

Jeffery Allen Lerol

Died unexpectedly June 23rd, 2026. Age 67 of St. Paul, MN. Born February 17, 1959. Proceeded in death by father, Marvin J. Lerol, brother Patrick and significant other, Laurie Magnuson. Survived by mother, Eleanor, brothers Mike, Greg (Karen), Johnny, Marvin (Karen) and sisters Trudy (Hasson) Khodabande and Tonna (James) Ptacek and many more relatives and friends. Service at Community of Grace Lutheran Church 4000 Linden Street, White Bear Lake. Monday, July 13th, 2026. Visitation 10:30am. Service 11:00am. Lunch following.

Terry Teppen

Born September 23, 1951, lived a life marked by curiosity, courage, humor, and love. He was a scientist, a teacher, an environmentalist, and a friend to many. Terry is survived by his wife, Joan; his son, Louie; his grandson, Jarue; his sister, Kim; and his brothers, Rick and Lynn. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Moana; father, Tep; and mother, Margareth. He was loved deeply and will be painfully missed. Wherever there is a trail through the woods, a canoe on quiet water, a student asking why, or a songbird waiting to be noticed, something of Terry remains. Honoring Terry*s life July 17th (please arrive before 1pm service) at White Bear Unitarian Church, 328 Maple St, Mahtomedi. Donations to The Parkinsons Foundation in place of flowers.

Wilson Tool founder recognized with Ken Wilson Way

Ken Wilson, founder of Wilson Tool International, will be recognized with a new honorary street sign designation, Ken Wilson Way, as he celebrates his 95th birthday on July 10.

The designation will appear beneath the existing Farnham Street sign in Hugo near Wilson Tool, honoring Wilson’s role in building a company that began in 1966 as a small Minnesota tool shop and has grown into a global manufacturer serving the sheet metal fabrication industry.

The recognition comes as Wilson Tool marks 60 years in business in 2026, while maintaining strong roots in the White Bear Lake and Hugo communities where the company set foundation in its early years.

For employees, neighbors and others familiar with the company, Ken Wilson Way is a modest but meaningful tribute to Wilson’s lasting impact through the jobs created, opportunities supported and local manufacturing presence strengthened throughout nearly six decades.

For more information about Wilson Tool International, visit https://wilsontool.com/en-us.

Ken Wilson, founder of Wilson Tool

celebrates the company’s 60th anniversary with two of his daughters Dianne Carlson (left) and Shelley Renner.

2 4 3

410,285490,275

FROM LOGOS TO LANDSCAPES: Minnesota

Pioneer Press and Campbell-Mithun Advertising.

During his long career as a commercial artist, Kuettel’s hand touched many of the logos, designs and iconography across Minnesota.

“Mad Men was his life,” laughed Janelle Kuettel, Frank’s daughter, about his career.

While at the Golden Rule, his office was alongside the writer’s room where they were workshopping a new jingle for Hamm’s beer, what would eventually become the company’s legendary “from the land of sky-blue waters” slogan.

“They created the jingle in that office. I could hear them singing,” said Frank. Years later, a co-worker from the Golden Rule, Ray Barton, would join Frank in an independent design studio called Studio One where he created and

sold the Twins logo of the two baseball players shaking hands over the Mississippi river.

“I don’t know how it got into the hands of the owner, but he really liked it,” said Frank about Barton’s design.

According to legend, Barton was paid $25 for the design, although Frank can’t confirm that sale price.

At 3M, Frank was tasked with creating the initial logo for Scotchgard.

“It was one of our new products and we had to come up with a logo,” said Frank. While he quickly zeroed in on the castle motif off a suggestion from a fellow artist, management “insisted on having plaid in there,” which required Frank to simplify the castle design to an outline of what would later go on to be the initial Scotchgard logo.

When he retired in 1993, Frank can’t pinpoint why he began to paint, just that he hadn’t in more than a decade.

“There was no time I guess, or I didn’t

make time. I just lost interest,” said Frank.

His return to watercolors was a surprise to even him as it was never a medium that he preferred either in school or across his career. Now it is how he paints each day.

Despite his now-decades of daily painting, Frank is blithe about his method and even subject matter.

“All art is impressionist,” he says simply stating that art, no matter how realistic is a 2D impression of a 3D space.

Many of his paintings are not real vistas, using reference photos he finds online. His thoughts as he sits down to paint each day are on the scenery, be it types of trees, the bend in rivers or family of flower. He holds no special regard for mountains.

“If you’ve seen one mountain, you’ve seen them all,” quips Frank.

while he painted. Some of those songs, he still can’t listen to.

Splitrock Lighthouse and the St. Paul Basilica are notable subject matters across Frank’s paintings.

He mainly uses just five colors, Cadmium Yellow, Cadmium Red, Prussian Blue, Burnt Ciena and Pane’s Gray and cuts his own matting and frames his own paintings, making so many trips to local Goodwills, he is known as ”The Frame Guy” by staff.

During their 70 years of marriage, Nancy took a particular joy in watching Frank paint, especially floral designs which were her favorite. She passed last December and while in hospice, Frank would bring her up to his room each day and play her favorite songs from his CD collection, like Roger Whittaker,

“When you lose a loved one, a special loved one, you can’t bring yourself to play those tapes,” said Frank.

Frank has no plans of stopping his daily paintings, even as arthritis has forced him to hold the paintbrush different, a change that Janelle had to point out to him.

The paintings are gifts for loved ones, prizes for New Perspectives BINGO and a daily meditation, but for Frank, their meaning is clear.

“If you can make something that makes people happy, that’s what it’s all about.”

For more information about Frank’s paintings, email dkuettel@gemmpls. com.

ROSEANNE

CONGRATULATIONS

RUBY

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: Wilson Team

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

1430 ARDEN VIEW DR, ARDEN HILLS, 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.

Erin Wilson

919 NORTHSHORE DR, FOREST LAKE, MN 55025

Pamela Wilson

1430 ARDEN VIEW DR, ARDEN HILLS, MN 55112

Shaun Porter

2161 SAINT JOHNS ALCOVE, WOODBURY, MN 55129

Angela Hebert

13861 TEAKWOOD LN N, DAYTON, MN 55327

Lindsey Wilson

29291 WILDWOOD RD, CHISAGO CITY, MN 55013

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: June 24, 2026

Signed: Pamela Wilson

Published two times in the White Bear Press on July 1 and 8, 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: Taken Here

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

765 Capitol Heights Saint Paul, MN 55103

3. The mailing address of the place of business will be: PO Box 4244, Saint Paul, MN 55104

4. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business. Andrea DeGaetano

765 Capitol Heights, Saint Paul, MN 55103

Dated: June 30, 2026

Signed: Andrea DeGaetano Owner

Published two times in the White Bear Press on July 8 and 15, 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:

Nonprofit Strategy Group

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

4680 Stoddart Lane

St. Paul, MN 55127

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.

AGG Marketing, LLC

4680 Stoddart Lane, St. Paul, MN 55127

Nonprofit Strategy Solutions, LLC

3740 Knoll Ridge Dr, Eagan, MN 55122

Dated: June 15, 2026

Signed: Andrew Goldman-Gray, Principal

Published two times in the White Bear Press on July 1 and 8, 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: BHG Servicing

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2780 Snelling Ave N, Roseville, MN 55113

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business. Capital Collection Management LLC 201 Solar St. Ste 100, Syracuse, NY 13204

Dated: June 22, 2026

Signed: Jacob Corlyon

Published two times in the White Bear Press on July 1 and 8, 2026. CITY OF MAHTOMEDI

WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA

GENERAL NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

SOUTHWEST DOG PARK

City of Mahtomedi (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of Southwest Dog Park. Bids for the construction of the Project will be received online through QuestCDN vBid™ until Thursday July 30, 2026, 1:00 p.m

local time. Immediately following expiration of the time for receiving bids, representatives of the City of Mahtomedi will publicly view Bids at an online Bid opening meeting. Those interested in viewing the online Bid opening are welcome to join the meeting by logging on to https://zoom.us/join or calling 646.931.3860 and entering Meeting ID 972 7681 6598 and Passcode 813034. The as-read online Bid results will be available at www.questcdn.com following the Bid opening.

The Project includes the furnishing of all labor and materials for the following: Aggregate parking stalls, concrete pavement, chainlink fence and gate, post & wire fence, common earthwork, drinking fountain, message board, signage, aggregate trail, soil trail, seed restoration, erosion control, and miscellaneous site furnishings.

The provisions of MINN. STAT. 16C.285 Responsible Contractor are imposed as a requirement of this contract. All bidders and persons or

companies providing a response/submission to the Advertisement for Bids of the City of Mahtomedi shall comply with the provisions of the statute. Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at www. questcdn.com. Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the website for a nonrefundable fee of $55 by inputting Quest project #10267467 on the website’s Project Search page.

The website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the website www.questcdn.com. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from other sources.

Bids will only be accepted via the electronic bidding service through QuestCDN.

The City Council reserves the right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any Bids received without explanation. No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days.

For all further requirements regarding Bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

DATED: July 1, 2026 BY THE ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL Scott Neilson, City Administrator, Mahtomedi, MN Published one time in the White Bear Press on July 8, 2026. INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 832 MAHTOMEDI, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF FILING FOR THE 2026 STATE GENERAL ELECTION

Notice is hereby given that a general election will be held in Independent School District No. 832 Mahtomedi Public Schools on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the purpose of electing three candidates for candidacy for the office of school board member of Independent School District No. 832. The filing period for these offices begins at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, and ends at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday July, 28, 2026. Candidates for the office of school board member file with Independent School District No. 832 Mahtomedi Public Schools, 1520 Mahtomedi Avenue, Mahtomedi, MN 55115. For more information visit: https://www.mahtomedi.k12.mn.us/page/school-board-elections Published two times in the White Bear Press on July 1 and July 8, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 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, July 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., to consider the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit to allow for upgrades to an existing electrical utility substation located at 0 Centerville Road (Parcel ID 043022120012) and legally described as: THE NORTH 177’ OF THE SOUTH 2092’ OF THE EAST 250’ OF THE WEST 984’ OF THE NE ¼ OF SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 30 NORTH, RANGE 22 WEST, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA. and to hear and pass upon objections and recommendations, if any, and to conduct any and all business incident thereto.

Given under my hand this 30th day of June, 2026.

PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on July 8, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 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, July 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., to consider the issuance of a Minor Subdivision to consolidate two (2) commonly owned parcels (PID: 163022140019) and (PID: 163022140021) and an amendment to the Permitted Use Standards (PUS) Permit for the Birch Lake Business Center to permit a warehouse addition to the existing building located at 1201 Birch Lake Boulevard North with full legal descriptions of the two (2) parcels on file with the Town Administrative Offices 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 30th day of June, 2026.

PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer

Published one time in the White Bear Press on July 8, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

NOTICE OF HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 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, July 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., to consider the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit for a Cannabis Microbusiness located at 2340/2350 County Road J (Parcel ID 013022210025) and legally described as: LIEBEL ADDITION SUBJ TO ROAD WIDENING IN DOC. NO. 2655800 LOT 3 BL1, RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA. and to hear and pass upon objections and recommendations, if any, and to conduct any and all business incident thereto.

Given under my hand this 30th day of June, 2026.

PATRICK CHRISTOPHERSON, Clerk-Treasurer Published one time in the White Bear Press on July 8, 2026.

CLERK’S CORNER – Greetings from the Township! Summer is here & as is the case across the state of Minnesota, it’s road construction time! You will start to notice construction crews around the Township, on our roads as well as state & county roads, pretty much until the snow starts to fly! Please be aware & take into consideration the safety of those crews! Movies in the park have begun in earnest, check the Township’s website for days & times. Lastly, the Wall That Heals will be making its appearance in Polar Lakes Park in the first week of August. Enjoy the season!

COMING IN AUGUST: THE WALL THAT HEALS – The White Bear Lake Area Historical Society, in partnership with White Bear Township, is excited to share we’ve been selected to host The Wall That Heals — a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial along with a mobile education center — in Polar Lakes Park!

Official opening day is August 6, 2026, starting with the opening ceremony at 9 AM. The event is open 24 hours daily, running through the closing ceremony which takes place on August 9 at 1:45 PM.

More information, including donation & volunteer information, can be found on the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society website or on the Town’s website.

NEW WATER EFFICIENCY REBATE PROGRAM STARTED JULY

1ST – A new rebate program is now available for both residential & commercial water utility customers who replace existing products with approved water efficient models between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2028.

Customers can receive a rebate for 100% of the pretax cost, up to the maximum rebate amount allowed for each eligible product type. To view the list of qualifying products, rebate limits, and additional program details, scan the QR code.

This program is funded by the Metropolitan Council through the Clean Water, Land & Legacy Amendment. Please note: The previous rebate program ended on June 30, 2026. Rebate requests for items purchased on or before that

date must be postmarked by July 31, 2026.

VACANCIES ON TOWNSHIP BOARDS & COMMISSIONS – There are vacant spots the Township is hoping to fill on the Economic Development Advisory Board (EDAB) & the Utility Commission. These are volunteer positions that meet once per month & provide recommendations to the Town Board on a variety of issues. Interested in learning more? Check out the Town’s website to read about the purposes of these positions & complete an application!

MOVIES IN THE PARK! COME JOIN US FOR THE MOVIE “ZOOTOPIA 2” – Bring your lawn chair or blanket & don’t forget bug spray for the next FREE, fun, & family-friendly movie night at Polar Lakes Park, beginning at dusk. Zootopia 2 will be showing July 11. Unable to make it to this movie? Join us on August 15 for the showing of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

THE 2025 DRINKING WATER REPORT is complete & viewable online or hard copies are available in the lobby of the Township Admin Office.

NIGHT TO UNITE – Night to Unite is Tuesday, August 4, 2026 & is held annually as a way to meet your neighbors & promote safe communities.

Night to Unite goals are to:

• Heighten crime & drug prevention awareness.

• Generate support & participation in crime prevention & community policing programs.

• Strengthen neighborhood spirits & public safety-community partnerships.

• Let criminals know that you are committed to keeping your neighborhood safe.

Neighborhoods are encouraged to extend an invitation to all neighbors as well as inviting another block to join your party, especially if that block is not planning a celebration. Night to Unite activity ideas & a party planning grid can be found on the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office Website.

SAVE THE DATE! Township Day is Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 2:00 to 8:00 PM at Polar Lakes Park. There will be free admission & parking. Fireworks will begin at dusk.

White Bear Lake awards contract for 2026 ash tree removal project

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Since emerald ash borer (EAB) was first discovered in the city of White Bear Lake, the City Council and city staff have made it their goal to treat approximately 300 trees a year.

“We have been trying to treat them to hopefully save a few or at least prologue their life in order to get caught up in the management of it,” explained Public Works Director/City Engineer Paul Kauppi.

This year, the city will be able to remove and replace even more trees impacted by EAB than expected thanks to a grant from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Shade Tree Program.

In 2018, the city completed an inventory of ash trees within the city’s boulevard and park areas. The inventory revealed 1,754 boulevard trees and 287 trees within park areas. The area that will be focused on is generally located east of White Bear Avenue, between County Road F and County Road E. The grant will fund $499,800 for ash tree removal and replacement. Kauppi noted the city will need to pitch in $20,000 from its parks fund for restoration costs that are not covered by the grant program. The city solicited bids for tree removal and received nine bids ranging from $299,941 to $719,500. The city also received two bids ($126,468 and $143,605) for replacement trees. The council

awarded both contracts to the low bidders — Precision Landscape & Tree, Inc. and Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and Landscape.

“The bids came in favorably. We were expecting removals would cost about $1,000 per tree and on average, they came in around $750 per tree,” Kauppi explained. “We are short of meeting the full grant spending, so over the last several weeks we have been working with the DNR who gave us the okay to go outside of those two (focus areas). They want those dollars spent in the community for removal and replacement.”

Kauppi noted city staff is working to locate approximately 100 additional trees for the project, which will likely be located nearby the existing project area.

City Council Member Andrea West asked Kauppi to explain how the city has communicated the tree removals and replacements with residents.

Kauppi said the trees slated to be removed had been marked and letters had been sent out to impacted property owners. In addition to information in the city’s spring newsletter, information was sent out via mail and city staff completed some door knocking. While talking with residents, Kauppi explained that some additional trees were added, or some trees slated to be removed were removed from the list due to residents wanting to continue treating the tree.

City Council Mem-

ber Ellen Gurrola said, “I’m really excited about this project, and I think a lot of people in our city (will) too. I know it is a competitive grant to get,” she said.

Mary Nicklawske asked about the variety of trees that would be used to replace the ash trees. Kauppi said twelve species had been identified and the city will rely

on the landscaper’s expertise and existing trees in the area when it comes to deciding what variety to plant where.

City Manager Lindy Crawford said she was excited to see the project get going. “Unfortunately, this is going to have a big impact on our neighborhoods and the tree canopy. That’s why it’s good to diversify and not

have a bunch of the same species going forward,” she said. Tree removal is scheduled for July through September, with tree planting from September through October.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES • PUBLIC NOTICES

The Loon family survived the Fourth of July weekend! Artemis and Apollo are ready to start their flying lessons, The next two weeks will be quite the ride. Hang on!

Loon Chronicles XI: So happy together

We are happy to report that the Loon family survived the Fourth of July weekend! The chicks, who have nearly completed molting, remain inseparable and under their parents’ constant supervision. We have never seen more attentive parents. Even when fishing and diving, one parent will wait to make sure both chicks are accounted for, before diving for more fish. Artemis and Apollo are enthralled with their huge wings and have added some forward propulsion to their wingflaps. Flying lessons

should start this week. Both chicks regularly circle their parents’ necks, trying to touch their feathers. We have observed this comical and affectionate behavior for years. We are starting to see more drop in Loons, including three new subadults. Expanding flocks of Canada geese can be seen all over the lake. Last week, we joined our Northern Minnesota Loon friends to take in the Mantrap Lake Wildlife Management Area Grand Opening. We spent two days, on the lake, photographing scores of chicks, ranging in age from 2 days to 4 weeks. I included a photo of the two-day old chicks, napping on their mama’s back. We counted more than 80 adult Loons, including parents, interlopers, and rafting bachelors. The last chick hatched on July 3. Mantrap Loons call to each other all night long. Somehow, the 22 nesting families, have enough territory to stay focused on their own families in relative harmony. Ellen Maas

Above: Members of Scout Troop and Pack 434 lead Birchwood’s 75th annual 4th of July Parade along crowd lined neighborhood streets.

At right: Wearing colorful, patriotic accessories, Jill Schwantz and Luke, Krista, Jack and Lydia Stanek found a good spot to watch the parade as it traveled toward Wildwood Park.

Above:

CONGRATULATIONS

CHLOE

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Bald Eagle Yacht Club sails against exclusivity

BY LOGAN GION STAFF WRITER

For many, the term “yacht club” bubbles up images of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.” The Bald Eagle Yacht Club, however, takes a different approach: Their membership costs about as much as an electric toothbrush and there is no official clubhouse.

“We’re a social club with a sailing problem,” joked Ted Jagger, Bald Eagle Yacht Club chair. Ted has been a member of BEYC for more than 40 years. While he and his wife, Annette Jagger, sail five-to-six times a week on multiple classes of boats, BEYC’s summer regatta mainly focuses on Hobie 16-foot and Hobie Wave catamarans.

“Fleet 52 is one of the oldest Hobie fleets in the country,” said Annette. Ted added that the club’s summer regattas—whose winners receive points for the Hobie Class Association of North America (HCANA) racing season—have been going on since 1972. BEYC itself has been around since 1899.

One of the reasons the Hobie regat-

ta has continued for more than half a century, longtime club member Kevin Chase explained, is that the Hobie 16’s design has remained consistent during that time.

“My boat’s 31 years old,” Chase said, “and if you put that side-by-side with (my neighbor’s boat), which is two years old, you’d be hard-pressed to see much of a difference in the boats.”

Annette stated that one can find a used Hobie 16 for a reasonable price. Indeed, looking online, they run about half of a month’s rent, with minimal upkeep expenses. Ted added that the Hobie 16’s design does not leave room for many modifications. Chase explained that fewer modification options keep spending down.

“It’s all about one design,” Chase said. “Because as soon as you start getting into the formulas … it becomes a checkbook kind of thing. Who’s got enough money to keep it competitive?”

One does not even need to own a boat to join BEYC, as plenty of veteran members are happy to have novices on their crews, during practice runs at first,

then during official races. Families who join may also enroll their children in the club’s annual sailing school.

Members can also be as casual or competitive as they want. Ted, for instance, was ranked fifth in the nation in the late 1980s. Both he and Annette will compete at the HCANA World Championship in September, held in Mississippi.

“We are so old, we get to be in the—not just Masters, not just Grandmasters—

but Great Grandmasters Class,” Annette chuckled. The club’s attitude towards competition, however, keeps the social aspect in mind.

“Be competitors, but be better friends,” stated Ted.

“It’s fun to be in the pack,” Annette added. “If you win by a leg, then it’s boring.”

Chase agreed, “We have this thing in common, this love of sailing. You like to see friends do well with things, so you help each other out.”

In a time when hobbies are expensive and socializing is digital, BEYC presents a reasonable, analog alternative. A clubhouse does not tie BEYC together. Members are instead moored by community and shared enthusiasm.

“The fun part about it is that it’s fun,” Annette said before bursting out laughing.

The Bald Eagle Yacht Club races Hobie boats every Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer and into fall. For information on how to join BEYC, contact Kevin Chase at kcchase@comcast.net.

GRAHAM HENNIG Drake University: Actuarial Science and Music

HADLEY SEATON University of WisconsinMadison: Kinesiology

HAZEL DUFRESNE University of North Dakota: Occupational Therapy

IRENE BAKKE Northern Michigan University: Radiographic Sciences

JAMES WALLEK Saint Paul College: Welding

JENSEN VADNAIS University of MinnesotaDuluth: Finance

JESSICA THOMPSON University of Iowa: Major in Psychology, Minor in Biology

JOSIE GUIDINGER Rocky Mountain College: Aviation and Alpine Skiing

KEENAN GRIFFIN North Dakota State University: Computer Engineering

LAURYN BELZ Bethel University: Secondary Education (Communication Arts/ Literature)

LILY DEWITT University of Minnesota: Music Education, Honors Program

LUCA ACKERMAN Lawrence University: Education

MADDISON LYDON University of MinnesotaTwin Cities: Biology

MADILYNN OLSON University of Minnesota: Neuroscience MARIAN AHMED University of Minnesota

MARTIN HENNIG Drake University: Actuarial Science and Cello Performance

MILKOFTU KURKURA Concordia - St. Paul

OLIVER ELIAS BECK University of MinnesotaTwin Cities

PETER TUCKER University of Minnesota - Duluth

LOGAN GION | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The Bald Eagle Yacht Club (BEYC) races Hobie 16-foot catamarans during its annual regatta. The regatta has run every year since 1972. BEYC has existed since 1899.