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SCHOOL NURSE: Writes chapter books to help young readers PAGE 8

City considers new salt storage rules

Ready, set, school

A new school year brings plenty to look forward to, and local kids have no shortage of answers. From reuniting with friends and meeting a new teacher to showing off a new backpack, decorating a locker and getting back on the ice for hockey season, students are ready for what’s ahead. We asked local kids what they’re most excited about this school year — here’s what they had to say.

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

“New teacher”

Osa Johnson, 7 1/2, second grade at Birch Lake Elementary School

“Friends”

Connor Eriksen, 10, fifth gra de at Matoska international

s” “My friend

rade at ix, 8, third g Bennett Sel mentary Vadnais Ele

“New school”

“Hockey season”

ird grade Alaina Tristani, 8, th mentary Ele n rso de An .

O.H at School

Olive Holvig, 15, 10th gra White Bear Lake High de at School

“Decorating my locker”

Rose Holvig, 11, sixth gra de at Mariner Middle School

“I am excited for September” Vivian Gilbert, 6, first grade at

Eagle Point Elementary

2025

WINNER Best of the Press

PHOTOS BY MAYA BETTI | CONTRIBUTED

WHITE BEAR LAKE — The city will conduct a second reading of an ordinance amending the city code regarding illicit discharge detection and elimination Aug. 25.

The city operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) under an MS4 general permit issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.

The permit regulates public stormwater systems such as curbs, gutters, ditches and pipes to reduce polluted runoff from entering state waters. The MPCA reissues the permit every five years and incorporates updated environmental standards, clearer guidelines and/or new mandates.

Connie Taillon, environmental specialist/ water resources engineer, explained that a new mandate in the current permit requires the city’s regulatory mechanism to include language for proper salt storage at commercial, institutional and non-state permitted industrial facilities to reduce salt runoff to public waters from exposure to rain and snow.

At a minimum, the regulatory mechanism must incorporate the following: • Designated salt storage areas must be covered or indoors; • Designated salt storage areas must be located on an impervious surface; • Implementation of practices to reduce exposure when transferring material in designated salt storage areas (sweeping, diversions and/or containment).

To maintain compliance with the city’s current MS4 permit, city staff recommended the council amend Chapter 406 of the city code to include the above salt storage requirements for commercial, institutional and non-state permitted industrial facilities and to educate on proper storage of salt or other deicing materials.

Failure to comply with the requirements of the permit could lead to corrective actions enforced by the MPCA. City Council member Kevin Edberg asked whether the city has any sort of gauge on how many businesses the amendment would impact.

“We really don’t see many businesses or institutions that have stockpiles of salt in their parking lots and things like that. Most of them use contractual services,” said Public Works Director/ City Engineer Paul Kauppi.

Kauppi noted that if approved, city staff would provide education on the topic for businesses so they could have time to react and changes if needed.

The City Council already held a public hearing on the amendment and there was no public comment. The second reading is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at City Hall.

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WHITE BEAR LAKE CONSERVATION DISTRICT NOTES the district to share an angler map for the lake on its website. Vice Chair Meredith Walburg explained that the gentleman then makes money off the map by recommending specific lures that can be purchased for the different areas of the lakes based on water depth.

“My view on it, we don’t know this guy. We don’t know if it is good, bad or indifferent,” said Chair Bryan DeSmet. “I’d like to keep it as an information item ... It’s getting to the end of boating season, anyway; maybe do a little more due diligence to make sure that everything is good and see if it is something that the board does want to link to on our site.”

• Three board members will need to volunteer to lead the strategic planning efforts related to the update of the Lake Management Plan.

Walburg asked that anyone interested say so before the September meeting.

• DeSmet reported that John Alessandro, of the Watersports Industry Association, offered to visit the board at a future meeting to continue the wake boat discussion. “I think it would be good for the board,” he said. “I think the more we can educate ourselves about this item, the better decision we will make as a

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communities. Having some discussion with them before that to try to get us aligned … I think that has been pretty effective.”

• As of mid-August, the lake level was at 922.46 feet, which is 5 inches lower than in July and 1 foot lower than in August 2025. The water temperature was 76 degrees, which is 4 degrees lower than in July.

• The Eurasian watermilfoil treatment is complete and next up will be the phragmites treatment.

A survey to locate treatment areas is scheduled for Aug. 27. After that, homeowners within so many feet of the suggested treatment areas will be notified via letter. Homeowners who wish to opt out of treatment will need to contact the conservation district.

Parenteau noted that homeowners who opt out of treatment will then be responsible for treating it on their own.

The next White Bear Lake Conservation District will be at 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 15, at White Bear Lake City Hall.

Shannon Granholm

White Bear Lake

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board.” DeSmet noted that he would like the board to have a position on the topic before ice out next spring.

• Some members of the board were scheduled to meet with White Bear Lake Assistant City Manager Rick Juba to discuss jet ski rentals on the lake Aug. 25. DeSmet said they would report back to the board in September.

• Director Brian Bonin explained that some residents have requested additional buoys near the dog beach.

He said he reached out to the city to inquire about the topic and was told that the city “didn’t want to spend any money” on that. “I’d like to dig in and get a little more information about what we can actually control there,” he said.

DeSmet said the conservation district might be able to require certain items through the permitting process, which will come up again this winter.

“We can’t tell them we need someone down there watching 24/7, but if we do think there is a safety issue and that a few additional buoys would help, I think we can encourage that and maybe require that through the permitting process,” DeSmet said.

“I also think things work better when we work closely with our member

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• Luke Michaud is hoping the board will adopt a resolution requesting the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to return the outlet to 925.4 feet. (See White Bear Lake Conservation District brief on page 14 for more information.)

• Attorney Alan Kantrud reported that “it’s been pretty quiet” this summer from the conservation officer’s point of view. However, there have now been three incidents of boating while impaired (BWIs), one that was previously reported on a pontoon and now on two Jet Skis.

Kantrud explained in the case of the Jet Skis, “bad conduct” got them pulled over. They managed to make it back to shore and were intercepted in the parking lot at Ramsey Beach.

“A BWI shouldn’t be a career-ending incident as far as I’m concerned, so I’ve been working with his attorney to try to craft something creative,” Kantrud said, adding that he is going to suggest he attend a camp for aquatic invasive species detection and then spend some time doing boat inspections at Ramsey Beach. “I thought that would be an interesting sentence to serve that helps the lake and puts in the time,” Kantrud noted.

• A request came into the board for

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3

CURRENT EVENTS SUMMER SIGNINGS

MIDWEST SKI OTTERS

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Aug. 28 Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square, White Bear Lake Details: Author William Kent Krueger will sign his latest book in the Cork O’Connor series “God’s Country” during the Farmers Market.

Contact: lakecountrybooksellers.com

When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30 Where: Little Goose Lake, 4150 Hoffman Road, White Bear Lake Details: Bring the family to enjoy the last waterskiing performance of the 2026 season.

Bleacher seating available or feel free to bring a chair.

Contact: skiotter.com/contact

COMMUNITY & COFFEE WITH MAYOR NICKLAWSKE

When: 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 Where: Ebba Park, 3450 Ebba St., 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

CONTRIBUTED

BIRCHWOOD MUSIC IN THE PARK

WHITE BEAR CRAFT FAIR

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 Where: Mariner Middle School, 3551 McKnight Road N., White Bear Lake Details: Shop over 70 booths of Minnesota crafters, artisans, boutiques and vendors. Food trucks on premises.

Contact: 763-269-2166 or sunriseeventsandcraftshows@ gmail.com

RAMSEY COUNTY FIX-IT CLINIC

When: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 Where: Ramsey County Environmental Center, 1700 Kent St., Roseville Details: Bring household goods and clothing in need of repair—three item limit. Bring any tools and supplies you think might help. Events are first come, first serve. Last items accepted at 12:30 p.m.

Contact: 651-266-1199 or FixItClinics@ ramseycountymn.gov

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30 Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park, 410 Lake Ave., Birchwood Details: The Fabulous Fairlanes perform a cappella Doo Wop. Free; bring a lawnchair or blanket.

Contact: cityofbirchwood.com

BLOOD DRIVE

When: 12:30-6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 1 Where: Culver’s, 4485 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights Details: Donors must have an appointment. Schedule online at redcrossblood.org. Red Cross is offering an exclusive Hello Kitty collectible item.

Contact: 800-733-2767

ONGOING EVENTS WEDNESDAY MORNING WALKING GROUP When: 9-10 a.m. Wednesdays

Where: Kohler Meadows Park, 365 E. County Road F, Vadnais Heights Details: Put your best foot forward as we meet at the picnic shelter and head out together. Enjoy fresh air, friendly conversation and a supportive group atmosphere each week. Special guests join on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month.

Contact: 651-204-6000 or info@cityvadnaisheights.com

TAI CHI CHUAN

When: 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, Vadnais Room, 655 E. County Rd F Details: Tai Chi Chuan is a traditional Chinese exercise system practiced for preventative and therapeutic purposes. It is one of the most popular exercise programs of Chinese tradition for improving personal fitness at any age. Register at secure.rec1. com/MN/vadnais-heights-mn/catalog.

Contact: 651-204-6000

COUNTY BRIEF

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners is currently seeking individuals to fill a number of vacancies on the following advisory boards and committees:

Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee

vacancies. Members encourage individuals and organizations to make the best use of activities in the areas of agriculture, horticulture, home economics, 4-H and related subjects.

For questions regarding Ramsey County Extension Committee, please contact Daniel Schmidt at daniel.schmidt@ramseycountymn. gov.

The Capital Improvement Program Advisory Committee has five current vacancies. The CIPAC provides citizens with the opportunity to participate in the development and adoption of the Capital Improvement Program. The committee consists of up to 14 citizens appointed by the county board, along with county staff, who review requests and make recommendations to the county board.

For questions regarding CIPAC, contact Bianca Fucini at bianca. fucini@ramseycountymn.gov.

Ramsey County Library Board

Ramsey County Extension Committee

Ramsey-Washington Metro Watershed District

The Ramsey County Extension Committee has two upcoming

The Ramsey County Library Advisory Board has two upcoming vacancies. This board provides advice and makes recommendations to the library department and Ramsey County Board of Commissioners on matters regarding integrated county service delivery that impacts or is enhanced by library services.

For questions regarding the RCL Advisory Board, please contact Blia Lee at blia.lee@ ramseycountymn.gov.

Watershed District has one upcoming vacancy. Applicants must reside within the watershed district. The district is guided by five members who oversee the preservation and improvement of the water resources and related ecosystems in eastern Ramsey County and western Washington County. Four managers are appointed by Ramsey County, one

by Washington County.

For questions regarding the watershed district, please contact Tina Carstens at tina.carstens@ rwmwd.org.

Rice Creek Watershed District

The Rice Creek Watershed District has one upcoming vacancy.

Applicants must reside within the watershed district. Managers govern the district and the water resources within it.

For questions regarding the RCWD, please contact Nick Tomczik at ntomczik@ricecreek. org.

The Ramsey-Washington Metro

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Press seeks 9/11 stories for 25th anniversary Where were you on Sept. 11, 2001, when al-Qaeda terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes in a coordinate suicide attack against the United States?

In remembrance of the 25th anniversary, the White Bear Press and Vadnais Heights Press would like to hear from its readers on what they were doing that day when tragedy struck. Send your response to whitebearnews@presspubs.com by Sept. 1.

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Ramsey County seeks advisory board and committee volunteers

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OPINION www.presspubs.com

AUGUST 26, 2026

Data centers, cameras and AI

C

ommunities are currently faced with major challenges when it comes to environmental considerations and civil liberties. Recent news headlines have focused on how city councils and residents are responding to proposals to build data centers and the use of surveillance cameras, such as those manufactured by Flock and Vigilant, to aid police in solving crimes.

Data centers are concerning for several reasons. Can our current energy infrastructure handle the demand of new data centers along with supporting the estimated 50+ data centers currently in Minnesota?

Data centers use extreme amounts of water for cooling, and how does this Publisher’s affect our aquifers, many of which are already being depleted rapidly?

View Flock cameras have been installed in several communities with the Carter Johnson support of city councils who believed residents would support the new technology to prevent and solve crimes. However, more and more people seem to be frustrated by the presence of Flock cameras.

The problems of data centers and Flock cameras are interconnected. Add in the conundrum of Artificial Intelligence. The demand for more data centers is, in part, a result of the surge in demand required to run AI and to store information. The camera systems are amazing and the power of the search with AI technology is truly unbelievable. These vendors claim it does not have facial recognition technology. As residents move about our communities their movements are documented and stored.

Concerns about AI and privacy and how it impacts our civil liberties are major issues.

From our standpoint as providers of news and information, if cameras like Flock and others have been credible sources in solving crimes, you would think these occurrences would show up in the weekly incident reports in the paper. Are they being used for their intended purpose? The takeaway is that while residents want the technology to prevent crime, they don't like being tracked. The response in many areas is that cameras are being destroyed by being cut down, vandalized or damaged.

It’s pretty hard not to use AI these days, with most search engines using it and it can be helpful. However, this advancement in technology requires extra computing power and that means more data centers to help manage and handle the storage. Not long ago, some of our communities used consultants to lure data centers to their community. Now data centers are controversial for the potential impacts, from massive energy consumption to noise and water pollution. We are all starting to use AI in our daily lives, but we don't want the data centers that support it being built in our own backyards.

In 2023 when the law was passed for green energy, I don’t believe anyone understood the energy demands that data centers would require in 2026 or 2030. There are five power plants that are scheduled to be shut down in Minnesota, including the Allen S. King plant in Bayport by 2030. I believe we need to rethink the planned shuttering of these major energy providers in Minnesota. I’m all for clean energy. However, what I see now with the extreme demands put on our energy infrastructure by AI, the shift to green energy such as wind and solar do not provide the capacity needed, are not as reliable, and we don’t have the battery backup yet to offset the downtime to meet the demand. With the advancement of AI and need for data centers to power it, perhaps the closing of our coal-fired plants is coming too quickly. As a state, we may need to seek an extension until we have a better understanding of the energy demands. The impact to the local economy, tax base and jobs should be considered along with environmental impacts.

We all want the technology that helps make our lives easier and safer, but we need to consider the trade offs to our health, environment and civil liberties.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

Distributed weekly in: White Bear Lake • White Bear Township • Mahtomedi Birchwood • Dellwood • Willernie • Gem Lake Pine Springs • Portions of Grant • Vadnais Heights

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A

The next chapter begins with us

s we begin a new school year, White Bear Lake Area Schools has reached an important milestone.

Over the past decade, our community has invested in the future of our schools in remarkable ways. Through the Building Our Future referendum, we built new schools, renovated existing facilities, improved safety and learning Movers & environments, expanded Shakers opportunities for students, Dr. Wayne and completed the final major Kazmierczak phase of that work with the transformation of our Sunrise Park campus. But the story of the past decade is about far more than buildings.

We built.

Together, we created exceptional spaces for students to learn, grow and thrive. We brought our high school students together in one building, opened Mariner Middle School and North Star Elementary, completed renovations and additions throughout the district, and transformed Sunrise Park to serve students, families and our community.

At the same time, we navigated a global pandemic, reimagined teaching and learning, supported students through unprecedented

challenges, and continued moving forward.

What we built is important. But perhaps even more important is what we built together: a stronger sense of what is possible when our community comes together around a shared commitment to students.

We have become.

Over the past decade, we have also grown as an organization. We have become more collaborative, more resilient, and more intentional in our focus on student success. We have strengthened our ability to use information about student learning to understand where students are, identify where they need additional support, and make thoughtful decisions about how we can help them reach their potential.

Great schools are not defined by their buildings; rather they are defined by the people inside them – the relationships they build, the culture they create, and their commitment to helping every student succeed.

That growth is one of the most meaningful accomplishments of the past decade.

We begin.

Now, we turn our attention to what comes next. The completion of our Building Our Future work gives us an opportunity to celebrate how far we have come while looking ahead to the opportunities before us. Our next chapter is not about construction.

It is about what happens inside the schools and classrooms we have worked so hard to create.

It is about strengthening relationships and ensuring every student feels seen, valued and challenged. It is about continuing to improve learning and student outcomes, supporting and developing our staff, and fostering school cultures where students and adults can thrive. It is about thoughtfully using what we know about our students to determine where we can make the greatest difference. And it is about preparing students not only for graduation, but for the many possibilities that await them beyond our schools.

The next challenge is to build on that foundation and continue finding ways to make a difference in the lives of our students.

Every finish line tells two stories: one about what we have accomplished and another about what comes next. For White Bear Lake Area Schools, this finish line is also a starting line. The next chapter will be shaped by our students, staff, families, and community. It will be shaped by the relationships we build, the questions we ask, the opportunities we create, and the choices we make each day on behalf of students.

We have built a strong foundation.

We have become a stronger organization.

And now, together, we begin.

Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak, Superintendent White Bear Lake Area Schools

WHITE BEAR / VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES • Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR PAID LETTER Passes test for accountability and affordability Accountability and affordability are the two guiding words in voting this year. Heather Gustafson has worked across the aisle as chief author to create the independent Office of Inspector General. This legislation has the authority to investigate fraud, waste and abuse in state programs. Sen. Gustafson has also authored legislation to address enrollment fraud in state colleges and universities. That is accountability.

Sen. Gustafson voted to reduce vehicle registration fees (which passed) and voted for $125 million in one-time tax relief. Students are offered a free lunch, which is healthy food for students and a reduction in grocery costs for parents. That is affordability.

Sen. Heather Gustafson passed my test for accountability and affordability.

Kathy Meyer Pittelko Vadnais Heights

PAID LETTER Gus for us

In a time when political division too often prevents meaningful progress, Minnesotans should recognize and support leaders who know how to bring people together. That’s why I’m voting to re-elect Senator Heather Gustafson, and I hope my neighbors will join me.

Heather Gustafson has built a reputation as a legislator who delivers real results through collaboration. Rather than focusing on partisan battles, she works across the aisle to pass legislation that improves the lives of Minnesota families. Her commitment to bipartisan problemsolving has helped her move important legislation forward and earn support from members of both parties.

One of Senator Gustafson’s most significant accomplishments was serving as the lead author of Minnesota’s Universal School Meals law. Every child deserves to learn on a full stomach, and this landmark legislation ensures that students can focus on their education instead of worrying about whether they can afford lunch. At the same time, it provides meaningful financial relief for working families, saving many parents thousands of dollars each year.

Senator Gustafson has also demonstrated that government should be accountable to taxpayers.

She authored legislation creating an independent Office of Inspector General to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse in state programs. To ensure the office would remain independent and trusted, she partnered with Republican colleagues to craft bipartisan legislation that passed the Minnesota Senate by an overwhelming 60-7 vote before ultimately becoming law.

This year, she also helped deliver car tab relief, providing additional savings for Minnesota drivers while continuing to support responsible budgeting.

Effective leadership isn’t measured by campaign slogans or partisan rhetoric. It’s measured by results, integrity, and a willingness to work with anyone to solve problems. Senator Heather Gustafson has consistently demonstrated those qualities throughout her time in office.

As voters prepare to cast their ballots, I encourage them to look at what has been accomplished—not just what has been promised.

Senator Heather Gustafson has earned another term through her proven record of bipartisan leadership, fiscal responsibility, and unwavering commitment to Minnesota families.

That’s why I’m proudly voting Gus for Us. Leah Nicholson White Bear Lake

PAID LETTER Candidate serves people, not politics I met Heather Gustafson back in 2017 when she was leading a grassroots effort for change in Vadnais Heights for a more sustainable and welcoming community. I was immediately impressed with her knowledge of community issues as well as her ability to connect and welcome diverse groups of people.

Fast-forward to today, and really the only thing that has changed is that she is our District 36 Minnesota State Senator.

Heather continues to impress me with her determination to meet as many of her constituents as possible through personal contact and conversations about the issues that are most important to them. Her knowledge base is vast. Her experiences lend themselves to honest and accurate representation, and she has the unique ability to connect immediately with whomever she is in conversation with.

Seventy percent of Heather's authored legislation has bipartisan co-authors. Her most recent bill, SF 856, created an Independent Office of Inspector General, which has the authority to investigate fraud, waste and abuse in state programs. This bill received overwhelming bipartisan support and is structured to operate independently of any single party or administration. Heather is focused not on party politics, but in truly serving the people of Minnesota.

I knocked on a lot of doors with Heather during her last campaign for District 36 state senator, and I have seen her professionalism and genuine concern for the people she serves. She has an incredible work ethic and is responsive and focused on finding solutions to the challenges her constituents face on a daily basis.

Please join me in voting for Heather Gustafson on Nov. 4.

Kate Wyngaard-Niccum Vadnais Heights

School Board made right decision As a recent WBLAHS graduate, I would like to share my support for the censure of Dan Skaar under School Board Policy 215. From a former student’s point of view, Skaar does not seem to understand the work and resources it takes to run a district and makes it everyone else’s issue.

Many of Skaar’s comments give the impression that the district and its faculty do not care about students’ wellbeing or education. As a recent alumni, I can say wholeheartedly that he could not be more wrong. The communities that this district and its staff foster are places where students learn

to support each other, find purpose, and prepare for their future. I believe that we should have transparency and accountability in our district.

But accountability for what? It is ridiculous to villainize our district for providing students with resources they deserve and for spending the average amount of money a district our size needs to function properly.

As for transparency, all district expenses are listed on the district website for anyone to see. Truly, these seem to be nonissues. Our elected officials should be role models for students, representing our ROAR core values of Relationships, Ownership, Awareness, and Responsibility, each of which Skaar consistently fails to be a positive role model for.

Skaar has, on multiple occasions, violated several rules that are clearly outlined in School Board Policy 215 - school board member code of conduct - section 3, for which he has rightly received a censure as outlined by section 4 of that same policy.

This action has caused a divide in the community; however, what example would be set for students if we let an elected official get away with breaking the rules, coming unprepared, disrupting meetings, and dividing our community? Would we be telling students that they can show up unprepared to class?

Break rules? Disrupt lessons? These rules are expected of students, just as they are expected of School Board members. When you break the rules, you set a poor example for students and there are repercussions.

Lucas Ackerman Vadnais Heights

H2O for life A resounding “bravo” to Ms. Patty Hall, Doug Niemela, Steve and Steve Hall Jr. and all others’ involved with the H2O for Life Ball last Monday, Aug.17, at the beautiful 7 Vines Vineyard.

Patty took on this fundraising effort to spread the need and fulfill this quest for potable water to children and countries around the world some 20 years ago.

I like to refer to Patty as “Our Mother Theresa of Minnesota,” as she has dedicated her life fulfilling Christ’s mission of servitude for those in need.

The three-hour Gala was sold out, catered by Donatelli’s with delicious hors d’oeuvres, and the 7 Vines staff was accommodating the guests with plenty of good cheer.

As we exited into the night, one could feel the joy and satisfaction for supporting such a tremendous cause, H2O for Life. What a night!

Jimmy Brunzell Jr. Vadnais Heights

Carrier of the Month

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Upcoming Games August 25 - 30 vs. Toledo Mud Hens September 1 - 6 @ Omaha Storm Chasers Congratulations to Eliza!

She has been a reliable carrier for the White Bear Press for over 2 years.

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6 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

COPS&COURTS www.presspubs.com

AUGUST 26, 2026

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents: • A St. Paul woman was cited for a no-insurance violation following a minor crash in the 1800 block of Whitaker Street Aug. 12.

• Officers responded to an animal complaint in the 3500 block of Highland Avenue Aug. 12.

• A dog owner was advised after a dog was reported off-leash in the 4800 block of Lake Avenue Aug. 12.

• A White Bear Lake woman was arrested following a domestic assault investigation in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Aug. 12. She also resisted officers and assaulted an officer.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Aug. 13.

• A civil problem was reported in the 3900 block of Van Dyke Street Aug. 13.

• A noise complaint was reported in the 4700 block of Centerville Road Aug. 13.

• Harassment was reported in the 5000 block of Lemire Lane Aug. 13.

• A Maplewood man was arrested for DWI Aug. 14 on Cedar Avenue.

• Officers responded to a civil dispute in the 3400 block of Auger Avenue Aug. 14.

• A vehicle-versus-pedestrian accident near the intersection

of Birch Street and White Bear Avenue Aug. 14 resulted in minor injuries to one person.

• Identity theft was reported in the 2200 block of Gardenette Drive S. Aug. 14.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Aug. 14.

• Check forgery was reported in the 3500 block of Commerce Blvd. Aug. 14.

• A White Bear Lake man was arrested for felony second-degree assault, felony threats of violence and misdemeanor domestic assault in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue Aug. 14.

• A trailer was stolen in the 3900 block of Haven Lane, Gem Lake, on Aug. 14.

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 1900 block of Whitaker Street Aug. 14.

• Two drivers were cited for multiple violations following an accident near White Bear Avenue and Birch Street Aug. 14.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Aug. 15.

• A swan that was running in traffic on Highway 61 near Cedar Avenue Aug. 15 was brought to safety by officers.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3100 block of McKnight Road N. Aug. 15.

• Identity theft was reported in the 1900 block of Fourth Street Aug. 15.

• Officers responded to an animal complaint at the intersection of Blonquist Avenue and Bellaire Avenue Aug. 15.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue Aug. 15.

• Officers responded to a juvenile incident in the 5200 block of Long Avenue Aug. 15.

• Officers arrested a White Bear Lake man on an outstanding warrant near the intersection of White Bear Avenue and Buerkle Road Aug. 16.

• Officers responded to a domestic assault in the 3700 block of Grand Avenue Aug. 16.

• A Henderson, Nevada, man was arrested for DWI Aug. 16 after officers responding to a 911 hangup on Elm Drive found he had left the address and was determined to be impaired by a combination of alcohol and controlled substances.

• A man was cited for a road rage incident Aug. 16 in the 2000 block of County Road E. • Officers mediated a dispute in the 4600 block of Centerville Road Aug. 16.

• Theft was reported in the 2100 block of South Shore Blvd. Aug. 16.

• Mail theft was reported in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Aug. 16.

• A complaint about the dog beach in the 4800 block of Lake Avenue was

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies patrolling along Dellwood Avenue July 22 observed a vehicle displaying expired registration, conducted a traffic stop and issued a citation to the motorist.

• Deputies dispatched out on a report of a raft sinking near Peninsula Road July 23 arrived in time to see an empty raft and everyone safe on shore. They assisted the White Bear Lake Fire Department with towing the raft to shore.

Grant

• Deputies hastened out to a railroad crossing in the 11000 block of Ironwood Avenue July 19 where the crossing arms were stuck in the down position and the power was out. The railroad company was notified.

• In the Case of the Piped Pup, deputies responded to a report about a dog in the 11000 block of Ironwood Avenue N. with its head stuck in a pipe on July 22. The fire department was able to free the dog.

• A homeowner in the 7000 block of Manning Avenue N. on July 25 complained about Amazon delivery drivers using his private easement road and wanted the drivers issued trespass notices. Deputies explained that the best course of action would be to contact corporate Amazon because the delivery drivers would always be different.

• An eastbound motorist was cited on 75th Street N. and Keats Avenue N. July 25 for displaying tabs that expired in December 2025.

Mahtomedi

• A passenger in a vehicle pulled over on Stillwater Road at Mahtomedi Avenue for equipment violation at 1:13 a.m. July 19 was cited for underage possession of marijuana.

• A motorist on Mahtomedi Avenue was cited July 19 for failure to provide proof of insurance, following a traffic stop for having a cracked windshield. A second motorist was cited for driving after suspension July 19 opposite Century College on Highway 120, after being pulled

reported Aug. 16.

• Officers responded to a disturbance between neighbors in the 2200 block of Thomas Lane Aug. 16.

• Officers responded to disturbances at businesses Aug. 16 in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue and the 1500 block of Beam Avenue.

• Officers cited a woman for defacing a political sign in the 2400 block of County Road E Aug. 17.

• Officers issued a trespass notice stemming from a theft in the 900 block of Wildwood Road Aug. 17.

• A dog bite was reported in the 3400 block of Van Dyke Street Aug. 17.

• Damage to a vehicle and theft were reported in separate incidents in the 3100 block of McKnight Road Aug. 17.

• A Maplewood man was arrested Aug. 17 in the 3500 block of Century Avenue N. for being in violation of an order for protection.

• Theft was reported in the 4700 block of Banning Avenue Aug. 18.

• A North Oaks man was arrested on an outstanding warrant for gross misdemeanor assault in the area of Fourth Street and Washington Avenue Aug. 18.

• A disorderly customer was reported at a business in the 900 block of Wildwood Road Aug. 18.

• Officers responded to a report of a group drinking alcohol at Spruce Park Aug. 18.

over for driving with a headlight out. A third motorist was cited on July 22 in the 400 block of Lincolntown Avenue for driving after revocation, following a traffic stop for speeding.

• A suspicious vehicle parked on Edgecumbe Drive July 20 turned out to belong to people out soliciting for their business.

• An East Avenue tenant on July 21 reported an unwanted person coming to his apartment and leaving items behind.

• Check forgery was reported July 21 from an undisclosed address.

• The Mahtomedi Public Works director on July 22 reported vandalism at Southwest Park. When deputies responded to the area, they found a male and female in the bathroom who appeared to be camping.

As deputies found them there during open park hours, the couple was dismissed from the scene.

• Deputies reported their squad car backed into July 22 on Maple Street. The Minnesota State Patrol arrived on scene to file the report.

• A motor vehicle versus skateboarder crash was reported on Long Lake Road July 22.

After deputies handed out their business cards, no further assistance was needed.

• A suspicious drone reported over a group home on Dahlia Street July 23 turned out to be Mosquito Control operatives working in the area and no danger was anticipated.

Pine Springs

• Deputies tried to catch a speeding motorcyclist at 8:38 p.m. July 21 on westbound Highway 36 over Hilton Trail N., but without success. When deputies tried to pull the motorcycle over for speeding and weaving through traffic, the biker didn’t stop and continued at speeds of well over 150 mph. Immediately, deputies terminated the pursuit.

Willernie

• Deputies received a call out of Paddington Road July 21 from someone stating they wanted to turn in firearms. On further investigation, the firearms didn’t belong to the caller and did not have serial numbers.

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

Vadnais Heights

• On Aug. 9 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies issued a theft citation to a 43-year-old man from Hugo after loss prevention employees caught him attempting to steal merchandise from Walmart.

• On Aug. 9 in the 700 block of Parkside Drive, deputies assisted medics who needed to enter a residence to assist a 75-year-old woman who had fallen. She was transported to a hospital for treatment.

• On Aug. 11 in the 3900 block of Centerville Road, a 63-year-old woman reported that a vehicle struck her mailbox. The matter is under investigation.

• On Aug. 12 in the 3700 block of Centerville Road, an animal control officer collected a dog that frequently runs loose, according to callers, and returned it to its owner.

• On Aug. 12 in the 600 block of North Oak Drive, deputies responded to a report of a missing man in his 60s and later determined that he had taken his own life.

• On Aug. 13 in the 3300 block of Vadnais Lane, deputies responded to a report of a rifle left in a home after an eviction and collected it for destruction.

• On Aug. 13 in the 800 block of East County Road E, deputies cited a 29-year-old woman from White Bear Lake after she was caught attempting to steal merchandise from Walmart.

• On Aug. 14 in the 900 block of East County Road E, deputies

responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash after a 65-year-old woman from Little Canada drove a Lincoln MKS through the front of a Papa Murphy’s. She told deputies she meant to back up but pressed the gas pedal. There were no injuries.

• On Aug. 14 in the 3300 block of Vadnais Lane, a 39-yearold woman reported finding a firearm outside of her apartment. Deputies collected the gun. The matter is under investigation.

• On Aug. 15 in the 4300 block of Buckingham Court, deputies arrested a 28-year-old man from St. Paul for drunken driving after making a traffic stop and learning he had been drinking vodka and appeared intoxicated. The man refused standard field sobriety tests.

White Bear Township

• On Aug. 10 in the 5900 block of Highway 61, deputies arrested a 57-year-old woman from Minneapolis on an active warrant out of Ramsey County for felony theft.

• On Aug. 12 at the intersection of Highway 96 E. and Centerville Road, deputies responded to a two-vehicle crash involving a Chevrolet Colorado driven by a 37-yearold man from Minneapolis and a Chevrolet Silverado driven by 61-year-old man from Glenwood, Wisconsin.

Medics evaluated the drivers and the vehicles were removed from the roadway.

• On Aug. 14 in the 1200 block of Halper Way, deputies responded to assist medics with a call and learned that a 65-year-old man had been pronounced dead. His body was released to a nursing home.

AUGUST 26, 2026 www.presspubs.com

7

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEFS Office of Traffic Safety increases DWI enforcement through Labor Day Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety is coordinating extra impaired driving enforcement statewide from Aug. 19 through Sept. 7. The effort coordinates education, outreach and funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which provides overtime hours to nearly 300 law enforcement agencies across the state.

So far in 2026, there have been:

• 62 alcohol-related traffic fatalities • 179 alcohol-related serious injuries (as of July 13).

• 13,670 DWI arrests

From 2020 to 2025, there were:

• 815 alcohol-related traffic fatalities (an average of 136 per year) • 2,380 alcohol-related serious injuries (an average of 397 per year)

Drivers are encouraged to do their part to end deadly and serious crashes by committing to having a sober driver every time. The best way to end impaired driving is to have a plan.

• Minnesota’s legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) driving limit is 0.08, but you can be arrested for DWI at lower levels.

• You can lose your driver’s license for up to a year, pay thousands of dollars in costs and possibly go to jail.

• The consequences go further if you’ve been repeatedly arrested for DWI. The same applies if you’re a first-time DWI offender arrested at 0.16 BAC. You must use a device that will test your BAC before you drive to regain legal driving privileges or face at least one year without a driver’s license.

Drivers with two offenses within the last 20 years must use ignition interlock for two years. Drivers with three offenses get six years, and four or more offenses require

10 years of ignition interlock. For more information, visit https://dps. mn.gov/divisions/ots.

vehicle homicide. According to court documents, witnesses report Hall didn’t stop at the scene of the crash.

Vadnais Heights motorcyclist killed by semi

Mahtomedi deputy receives promotion

Roy John Berger, 30, of Vadnais Heights has been identified as the motorcyclist killed in a crash Thursday, Aug. 20 in Cass County.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a semi was driving south on Highway 371 around 4 p.m. when it made a maneuver onto the right shoulder towards a motorcycle. The motorcyclist then hit a cable barrier, and the rear of the semi ran over the driver.

Berger, who was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, was killed in the crash. The semi-driver, a 33-year-old from Pennsylvania, was not injured.

Timothy William Arthur Hall is believed to have been the driver of the semi and is facing charges of criminal

Deputy Ryan Corniea has been promoted to patrol sergeant with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Sgt. Corniea joined WCSO in 2018. During his eight years with the sheriff’s office, Ryan Corniea he has served as a general patrol deputy and the Mahtomedi contract deputy.

He has also served as a team lead on the SWAT Tech Team and as a Community Impact Unit deputy.

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH BRIEF MDH, MDA confirm Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, salmonella cases linked to alfalfa sprouts Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) officials are warning Minnesota consumers not to eat alfalfa sprouts sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands due to a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and salmonella infections.

Twenty-three Minnesotans became ill between July 8 and Aug. 8 with salmonella and/or various strains of STEC. Two people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported.

In addition to the Minnesota cases, Wisconsin investigators have identified 18 cases, with additional illnesses identified in other states. The number of illnesses will likely increase as the investigation progresses.

The illnesses have been linked to eating alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota grower, and sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands to restaurants

CHURCH BRIEFS

and grocery stores. Health officials recommend people check for alfalfa sprouts from Calco or Everything Sprouts and throw them away. MDH and MDA are working with health officials from Wisconsin, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other states to identify the source and scope of contamination.

Symptoms of illness caused by STEC typically include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, but only a lowgrade or no fever. People typically become ill two to five days after exposure, but this period can range from one to eight days.

Most people recover in five to seven days. However, STEC infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that involves acute kidney failure and other severe problems.

Diarrhea associated with STEC infections generally should not be treated with antibiotics, as this can promote the development of HUS. Anyone who believes they may have developed an STEC infection should contact their healthcare provider.

Mass for those who have lost a child

Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, abdominal pain and fever. Symptoms usually begin within 12 to 96 hours after exposure, but they can begin up to two weeks after exposure.

Infections usually clear in five to seven days, but about 28% of laboratory-confirmed cases require hospitalization.

Many salmonella infections in otherwise healthy people do not require medical treatment. More serious infections occasionally occur. For those who seek medical care, most do not require antibiotics. However, antibiotic treatment may be needed in some cases. If you have consumed the implicated product, become ill and are concerned about your health, consult your healthcare provider.

Approximately 1,000 salmonella infections and 85 STEC infections with the serogroups associated with this outbreak are reported each year in Minnesota. More information on salmonella can be found at health.state.mn.us/diseases/ salmonellosis. More information on STEC can be found at health. state.mn.us/diseases/ecoli.

St. Mary of the Lake Parish will hold a special Mass at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, for those who have lost a child. Held on the Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows, this liturgy is open to the public and will focus on healing and strength through Christ. Anyone who may benefit from this offering is encouraged to attend. St. Mary of the Lake is located at 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake. For more information, contact 612-432-0810 or stmarys-wbl.org.

Redeemer hosts another installment of Primetime Redeemer Lutheran Church will host “The Rule of Law and Due Process in 2026: Where are we and how we got here” at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17.

Coffee will be served at 9:30 a.m. The first session of the Primetime program for 2026 will feature guest speaker Alicia Granse on the evolution of due process and the rule of law in the courts.

Granse is a senior counsel at Groundwork Legal, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the foundation of democracy. Before working for Groundwork Legal, she worked as a Hennepin County public defender. RSVP by Sept.

13 by visiting the welcome desk at the church in person, calling the church office at 651-429-5411 or signing up online at https://tinyurl.com/4tnzum4w.

Redeemer Lutheran Church is located at 3770 Bellaire Ave., White Bear Lake. For questions, contact Barb Wojahn at bcwojahn@gmail.com.

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory Sunday Worship Join us on Sunday:

Worship: Sunday, 9am & 10:30am Wednesday, 6:30pm Daily prayer meetings and Spiritual Growth classes throughout the week. Call the church office for more information.

857924

847494

Children 5 years to 5th grade may participate in Children’s Church during worship.

5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381 • www.fpcwbl.org 5th and Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake • 651-429-3381• www.fpcwbl.org

2425 White Bear Avenue • Maplewood • 651-777-5200

rlcstpaul

859436

redeeminglovechurch.com

10:15 am in-person Worship Livestreaming on and Live-streaming on YouTube: YouTube:FPCWBL FPCWBL

Christ the Servant Lutheran Church 3676 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 www.cslcvh.org / 651-429-6595

www.stmarys-wbl.org

online service information.

857925

lutheran church & preschool (FALL)

Saturday 4:00pm Sunday 9:00am

Lakeside Worship @ Bellaire Beach 10:15am on 4th Sundays 06.28 | 07.26 | 08.23

2480 South Shore Blvd | WBL | sstwbl.org

Christ the King Lutheran Church 1660 Birch Lake Ave., White Bear Lake (Just off Hwy 96 & Otter Lake Road)

9 am worship in person & online at www.ctkwbl.org.

office@ctkwbl.org | 651-429-4828

785863 764532 864389

church web sites for service times and

Church: 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake Parish Life Center/School: 4690 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake

831310

Contact your local church or check

Masses: Saturday - 5:00 PM Livestream Sunday - 9:00 & 11:00 AM

Join us for worship!

849803

Sout h Shor e Tr inity

651-429-7771 Opt 1

Service times are subject to change.

853949

831312

836604

All Are Welcome!

Sunday 9:00 AM worship in person/on-line Adult Bible Study 8:00 AM

8 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

AUGUST 26, 2026

www.presspubs.com

School nurse writes chapter books to help young readers For White Bear Lake Area Schools nurse Charlotte Russell, caring for children extends beyond the health office. After spending years supporting students as a special education paraprofessional and now serving as a school nurse, she has published the “Charlie MacDew” series, chapter books designed for readers ages 10-12 who struggle with reading, including many with dyslexia. Drawing from her personal experience as a late reader, she writes stories to help children build confidence without sacrificing the look and feel of a traditional chapter book.

In this Q&A, Russell reflects on the experiences that shaped both a career in education and health care and a passion for writing. From turning childhood memories into fiction to balancing nursing with author life, she shares why creating accessible stories for reluctant readers has become a way to give back — and why the Charlie MacDew series is just getting started.

Q. How long have you worked as a nurse for White Bear Lake Area Schools?

A. I've been a nurse with White Bear Lake Area Schools since I graduated from nursing school in 2020. Prior to that I was a full-time special education paraprofessional at Somerset Middle School in Somerset, Wisconsin, from 2005 to 2017. I was a para in Lebanon, Oregon, for three years before we moved to this area. While I was in nursing school I worked as a substitute school nurse while I was in school full time. So really, education and health care have been the two threads running through my whole career.

Q. What inspired you to start writing books for children, especially while working full time as a school nurse?

A. Honestly, I spent years watching kids struggle with reading and thinking that reading wasn't for them — when actually, they just hadn't found the right book yet. I was one of those kids. I didn't become a fluent reader myself until sixth grade.

I still remember being handed books like Dr. Seuss when I was already too old for them. It was demoralizing. I needed a real story I could actually read, something that met me where I was in my reading journey. That's really where Charlie MacDew came from. I wanted to give kids like me something written for them, not down to them.

Q. Your books are written for readers ages 10–12 who struggle with reading, including children with dyslexia. Why was it important to create stories specifically for that audience?

A. That age is really tough. Kids that age already know they're behind, and handing them a picture book, even one at the right reading level, can feel embarrassing. I wanted Charlie MacDew to look like the same chapter books their friends were reading. These books are the same size, have the same style cover, and sit on the same shelf. They are just written with shorter sentences and pacing that gives a struggling reader room to breathe. I never wanted it to feel "easier." I wanted it to feel accessible.

Q. You've shared that Charlie MacDew is based on your own childhood. What was it like turning your personal experiences into fiction?

A. It was more emotional than I expected. Charlie is me as a kid, and James and Wally were real neighbors of mine. Wally has since passed away, so putting him on the page and letting him live on that way has meant a lot to me. I do want to be upfront with readers, though. This is what might have been, not a memoir. I really did ride my bike all over town with James and Wally, and we really did go to the pool together. There's some truth scattered through the books, like catching frogs in the creek

or watching the clouds go by. We were kids without a lot of money. We learned lessons like packing our own lunch for the day.

We learned about relationships with both kids and adults and how to conduct ourselves. But most of it is fiction. I want the kids who read my books to think of this book and life in general as an adventure, not as an

CONTRIBUTED obstacle.

Charlotte Russell Working as a para in Somerset shaped this in a way I didn't expect. I sat in on classes right alongside my students. Looking back, that's where a lot of my own writing skills came from. Those years in the classroom are a big part of why I was able to go to nursing school and why I can write these books at all now.

Q. You didn't become a fluent reader until sixth grade. How has that experience shaped both your career in education and your writing?

A. It's really the foundation of everything I do.

It's why I spent 15 years as a special education paraprofessional before nursing school. It's the whole reason Charlie MacDew and Russell Storyworks even exist. I know what it's like to be the last kid still stuck on the page. I also know what it looks like on a kid's face the moment a story finally clicks for them. Honestly, dyslexia never fully goes away. It has followed me right through high school and college. I still deal with it today. There are good days, and some that I have to pull on my tools to get the things done that need to be done. I still read slowly and have to go back over the same passage two or three times before it makes sense. All of that is still with me when I write.

Every decision about sentence length or pacing traces back to that sixth grader.

Q. Before becoming a school nurse, you spent 15 years as a special education paraprofessional. How did those years influence the way you write for young readers?

A. Those years taught me how differently kids take in a story. Different kids need and use different tools to read and understand. It takes patience to actually meet a child where they are, instead of where you wish they were. I learned to notice small things. I learned which sentences trip a struggling reader, and which words feel like walls instead of doors to get to the other side of the story. That's baked into every page of Charlie MacDew.

to hear them say they liked it and wanted more.

That moment alone made the whole thing worth it.

Q. What can readers expect from your second book, "Charlie MacDew and the Rainy Day Clue," and do they need to read the first book before picking it up?

A. Book 2 picks up with the continuing mystery that unfolds on a rainy day and pulls readers deeper into Charlie's world. You could read it on its own, but the richest experience is starting with “Charlie MacDew and the Best Summer Day.” The friendships and setting are set in the first book and carry through the whole series. It is called the Old Mill Key series. It is marked with a key, and the book number in the series is on the back cover.

Q. As someone who balances a career in health care with writing, how do you find time to pursue both passions?

A. I have spent early mornings and late nights, and a lot of notes are typed into my phone whenever an idea hits me. Nursing is demanding, and it's work that I love. Writing has become how I process it all and give back to society. It's my pay it forward.

They don't really feel like two competing jobs to me. It's more like two halves of the same thing.

Q. What do you hope a child who struggles with reading feels after finishing one of your books?

A. I want them to feel empowered! I want them to feel that "I did it" when they finish a real book from cover to cover. And then I want them to know that feeling was there just waiting for them the whole time. I want them to close it and think, "I can do this." And then maybe, reach for the next one without anyone having to talk them into it.

Q. What's next for Charlie MacDew — and for Russell Storyworks? Can readers expect more books in the series?

A. Book 3, “Charlie MacDew and the Bend in the Creek” was just released in paperback through Amazon and wraps up this trilogy. But that's really just the first one. Charlie MacDew is built to be a series of trilogies, with the reading level rising a little with each one. These books can keep growing alongside the kids who are reading them. Beyond that, my goal for Russell Storyworks is the same as it's always been — keep making books for the kids who are struggling and reading late, because that need isn't going anywhere.

Compiled by Shannon Granholm

Q. Your first beta readers were your own students. What was it like watching them read your story, and did any of their feedback surprise you?

A. I wasn’t present when some of my beta readers went through the manuscript but was lucky enough to watch others as they read. There's really nothing like watching a real kid get pulled into a story you have written. It has filled me with great satisfaction

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863701

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864370

North of White Bear Lake North LakeE. E. 651-429-7202 Hwy 96of onWhite AppleBear Orchard Rd. Hwy 96 on Apple Orchard Hwy651-429-7202 96Job on application Apple OrchardRd. Rd.

AUGUST 26, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

SCHOOL BRIEFS

9

BUSINESS BRIEFS

U.S. News is releasing a list ranking more than 27,000 public high schools nationwide.

Mahtomedi High School placed in the top 4 percent in the country and ranked 17th in the state.

The list examined six criteria when ranking schools. The first, college readiness, measured the percentage of seniors who took an advanced placement course and scored 3 out of 5 or higher on the AP test. The second, college curriculum breadth, looked at the number of seniors who took four or more AP courses and scored 3 out of 5 or higher on each AP test. The third and fourth, state assessment proficiency and performance, compared a school’s state assessment scores against other schools in the state as well as against expected scores for a school’s demographic makeup.

The fifth, underserved student performance, assessed learning outcomes for Black, Hispanic and low-income students. The sixth, graduation rate, tracked students who completed high school in four years.

U.S. News used 2023-2024 state assessment data to compile this year’s list.

Logan Gion

USDA announces new income guidelines for free and reduced-price eligibility

The U.S. Department of Agriculture updated its income guidelines for free and reducedprice eligibility for Child

Nutrition Programs.

Though Minnesota provides free meals for students who attend schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program, schools must still collect applications for educational benefits to determine eligibility categories and receive the correct federal and state reimbursements.

Under the 2026-27 federal income guidelines, families may qualify for free benefits with monthly incomes up to $2,345 for a family of two, increasing by $615 for each additional family member.

Families may qualify for reducedprice benefits with monthly incomes up to $3,337 for a family of two, increasing by $875 for each additional family member.

In addition to qualifying based on income, families may also qualify based on participation in assistance programs such as SNAP, MFIP or FDPIR, or through student status such as foster care, Head Start, homelessness or migrant status.

Families that meet the eligibility requirements should complete the application to help their children’s schools and to receive additional support such as summer grocery benefits, utility discounts and test fee waivers.

The application can be submitted at any time during the school year and is available through a student’s school or district.

“Under Governor Walz’s Free School Meals for Kids program, Minnesota schools have provided over 300 million free meals to students across the state, saving families an estimated $1,000 per student each year,” said Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett. “When families complete the application for educational benefits, it helps us continue providing nutritious food to children and helps schools and

families access additional supports and resources.”

MDE encourages applicants to contact mde.fns@state.mn.us or call 651-582-8526 with any questions.

White Bear Lake Area Schools selected for state Grow Your Own grant

White Bear Lake Area Schools has been selected as one of 25 primary grantees to receive funding through the Minnesota Department of Education’s Grow Your Own Adult Pathway program.

The grants are part of more than $41 million in new state investments aimed at recruiting, diversifying and retaining Minnesota’s educator workforce.

The Grow Your Own program helps school districts reduce financial barriers for local adults who are interested in pursuing teacher preparation and ultimately teaching in their communities.

MDE awarded approximately $20.8 million through the Adult Pathway program to 25 primary grantees working with 23 joint partners. The Grow Your Own program also includes a Student Pathway designed to introduce middle and high school students to careers in education. Statewide, 452 adult and 1,878 student teacher candidates participated in Grow Your Own programs during fiscal year 2025.

The initiative is intended to strengthen local educator pipelines while helping communities develop a teaching workforce that reflects the students and families they serve.

For more information, visit https://education.mn.gov/MDE.

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Washington Square to host fundraiser for Healing Hearts Rescue Washington Square Bar & Grill will host a community fundraiser from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Monday, Sept. 7, benefiting Healing Hearts Rescue, a local organization dedicated to helping save dogs.

During the event, Washington Square will donate 10% of all sales to the rescue.

The evening also will feature live music

by Lehto & Wright, raffle prizes and an opportunity for guests to support the organization. Organizers encourage guests to bring friends, enjoy food and music, and help raise money for pets in need.

Market & Johnson strengthens leadership team to expand statewide presence

After 12 years in the oil business, Zach Lamppa, a 1995 White Bear Lake High School grad, is transitioning to a new career path with Market & Johnson.

Market & Johnson, one of Wisconsin’s largest commercial construction firms, is strengthening its Minnesota

CONTRIBUTED leadership team Zach Lamppa with the addition of Lamppa, a veteran business development executive, as the company continues to expand its presence across the state. Lamppa joins the firm as business development manager, where he will focus on building relationships with clients, architects, engineers, developers, municipalities and community leaders while supporting the company’s business development efforts throughout the state.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

10 WHITE BEAR PRESS

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BROWN’S CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., the Brown’s Creek Watershed District (BCWD) Board of Managers will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the District’s proposed 2027 Budget and Levy. The District’s proposed total budget for 2027 is $2,428,140, including grants, fees and levy funding sources. The proposed tax levy is $198,890 for the General Fund and $1,097,850 for the Management Plan Project Fund for a total proposed levy of $1,296,740, which is 3.9% increase ($49,000 more) from 2026.

The public hearing will be held at Stillwater Township Hall, 13636 90th Street North, Stillwater, Minnesota.

Luke Mattson, Secretary, Browns Creek Watershed District Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 19 and 26, 2026.

BUDGET TOWING

PUBLIC NOTICE The following vehicle must be claimed by 9-9-2026 or it will be disposed of or sold: 2015 NISSAN PATHFINDER BLUE VIN 5N1AR2MN3FC631307 Budget Towing Inc, St. Paul, MN 55102, 651-771-8817 Published one time in the White Bear Press on August 26, 2026.

CITY OF GEM LAKE RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ORDINANCE NO. 2026-02 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE #129; SECTION 3. CONNECTIONS WITH WATER REQUIRED THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GEM LAKE ORDAINS: Section 3. Connections with Water Required.

1. Existing Structures. Any buildings presently used or capable of being used for human habitation or in which a toilet or other plumbing facilities for disposal of human waste is installed and located on property adjacent to a water main, or in the platted block through which the system extends, shall be connected to the municipal water system within five years from the date on which a connection is available to such building. Where the property owner has failed to connect to the system within five years the following procedures shall be followed: Section 2. Severability. Should any section, subdivision, clause, or other provision of this Ordinance be held to be invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the Ordinance as a whole, or of any part thereof, other than the part held to be invalid.

Section 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in force from and after is passage and publication.

Adopted by the City Council of the City of Gem Lake, Ramsey County, Minnesota, this 18th day of August 2026.

Gretchen Artig-Swomley, Mayor ATTEST: Barbara Suciu, City Clerk Published one time in the White Bear Press on August 26, 2026.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of White Bear will receive sealed Bids for the construction of the Bellaire Pond Construction project, consisting of the following: 3 EACH Clearing 795 CU YD Excavation - Common 190 CU YD Common Topsoil Borrow 40 LIN FT 12" RC Pipe Sewer Class III 31 LIN FT 30" RC Pipe Sewer Class III 1 EACH Const Drainage Structure Design SD-60 1 EACH Const Drainage Control Structure 1100 SQ YD Rolled Erosion Prevention Category 25 5 EACH Coniferous Shrub 4' Ht Cont 3 EACH Deciduous Shrub 3' Ht Cont Bid forms, contract documents, drawings and specifications as prepared

by TKDA, are on file for inspection in the office of the Town Clerk and in the office of the Engineers, whose address is 3311 E Old Shakopee Rd, Suite 300, Bloomington, MN 55425.

Complete digital Proposal Forms, Plans, and Specifications for use by Contractors submitting a bid are available at www.questcdn.com. You may download the digital plan documents for a non-refundable fee of $25 by inputting Quest Project No. 0325275 on the website’s Project Search page.

Please contact QuestCDN.com at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in free membership registration, downloading, and working with this digital project information.

Contractors desiring drawings, specifications, and related documents for the purpose of submitting a bid may secure them from the Engineers upon a non-refundable payment of $50 for each set. Mail orders for Drawings and Specifications, and orders for Drawings and Specifications will not be taken by the Town.

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

Bids will be received by the Town of White Bear until 9:00 am, Wednesday September 9, 2026. For this solicitation, bids will ONLY be received and

accepted via the online electronic bid service through QuestCDN.com for an additional bidding fee of $30. Download the bid documents and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement to access the electronic bid qualifications and bid worksheet. Bids will be electronically opened and publicly read aloud by representatives of the Town of White Bear.

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

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

The Town Board will consider award of contracts at a regular meeting to be held on Wednesday September 9, 2026, beginning at 7:00pm.

Patrick Christopherson, Town Clerk Dated: August 19, 2026 Published to Questcdn.com on August 19, 2026 Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 26 and September 2, 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: Minnesota Freedom Fund 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2233 University Ave W, Suite 210 Saint Paul MN 55114 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.

Mission for Freedom 2233 University Ave W, Suite 210 Saint Paul MN 55114 I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: August 11, 2026 Signed: Janae G Mann Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 26 and September 2, 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: Minnesota Freedom Fund Action 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2233 University Ave W, Suite 210 Saint Paul MN 55114 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.

Mission for Freedom Action 2233 University Ave W, Suite 210 Saint Paul MN 55114 I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: August 11, 2026 Signed: Janae G Mann Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 26 and September 2, 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: Tanner Family Insurance 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1116 Randolph Ave., Apt 13, Saint Paul MN 55105 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.

GabeCo LLC 1116 Randolph Ave., Apt 13, Saint Paul MN 55105 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: Dalton Tanner Signed: July 25, 2026 Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 19 and 26, 2026.

AUGUST 26, 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: Minnesota Freedom Fund 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 2233 University Ave W, Suite 210 Saint Paul MN 55114 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.

Mission for Freedom 2233 University Ave W, Suite 210 Saint Paul MN 55114 I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: August 11, 2026 Signed: Janae G Mann Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 26 and September 2, 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: Mud & Muscle 2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 1603 17th Ave NW 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.

Evan Oxentenko 1327 Creek Ln SW Rochester MN 55902 Mattias Lindsey 1603 17th Ave NW New Brighton MN 55112 I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: August 1, 2026 Signed: Mattias Lindsey Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 26 and September 2, 2026.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-26-724 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of Thelma Evans Sherrett, a/k/a Thelma E. Sherrett and Thelma Sherrett, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given that an application for informal probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s Last Will dated March 6, 2025 has been filed with the Court, and the application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Todd Leslie Sherrett, 2250 4th Street, White Bear Lake MN 55110, as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as Personal Representative, or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.

Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing.

Notice is also given that, subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801, all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four (4) months after the date of this Notice, or the claims will be barred.

Attorney for Personal Representative GRANT EDWARD GUNDERSON Attorney License No.: 402680 Cummins & Bonestroo Law Office PLLC 2251 Tower Drive West, Suite 100 Stillwater MN 55082 Telephone: 651-689-4345 E-Mail: ggunderson@cblawoffices.com Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar Theresa Ames, Court Administrator Dated: August 13, 2026 Published two times in the White Bear Press on August 26 and September 2, 2026.

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE BRIEF New shell egg law allows greater food donations As of Aug. 1, 2026, charitable food assistance programs in Minnesota that receive donated eggs from retailers are now allowed to distribute them to end consumers up to 30 days past

their quality assurance date.

Gov. Tim Walz signed the Shell Egg Bill (SF3891) into law on May 26, 2026. For eggs, a “best by…” or quality assurance date represents the guarantee of maintaining grade (usually AA or A). It is not an indicator of food safety. Therefore, eggs with a past-quality-assurance date may still be safe to

consume, provided they have been stored and handled appropriately.

To be donated, the eggs must be: • Contained in original packaging (repackaging is not permitted) • Previously candled and graded • Not more than 30 days past the original quality

assurance date • Continuously refrigerated On the receiving end, food assistance programs must apply a new label to the eggs with: • Name of the food shelf v“Distribute within 30 days of carton date” OR “Distribute by ‘date’” • “Donated eggs – not for resale”

Eggs that have not been distributed to consumers by the end of 30 days past the original quality assurance date must be discarded. For more information, contact the MDA Meat, Poultry and Egg Inspection program at 651-201-6300 or MDA. MeatPoultryEgg@state. mn.us.

AUGUST 26, 2026 www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR PRESS

11

Council hears quarterly finance department report

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

WHITE BEAR LAKE — So far in 2026, the city’s revenues and expenditures are on track.

That’s what Finance Director Kerri Kindsvater recently reported to the City Council in her quarterly update on the finance department.

“Some accounts have activity that is higher or lower than the originally adopted amount, but those variations can happen,” she explained, adding that it was often due to the timing of payments and invoices.

Kindsvater noted the report is a bit deceiving because it looks like the city has less revenue coming in from property taxes; however, those will be included in the next quarterly report because the counties allocate taxes to appropriate jurisdictions three times a year: in July, December and January.

Park facilities continue to be in high demand as evidenced in facility rental revenues as well as revenues from rentals of canoes, kayaks and skid rentals.

The city of White Bear Lake is one of many cities that qualified for a PFAS settlement. Kindsvater explained that over the past few years, manufacturers of PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, have reached large national settlements with public water systems due to contamination from PFAS. “The settlements are intended to help cities and utilities pay for testing, treatment and long-term remediation,” she said.

The city of White Bear Lake anticipates receiving a total of $566,061 between 2026 and 2033. As

2025 vs. 2026 Park facilities rental fees collected (through June 30) $31,043 in 2025 $35,094 in 2026

License Bureau fees collected (through June 30) $521,085 in 2025 $455,148 in 2026

City expenditures (through June 30) $16,835,709 in 2025 $18,084,315 in 2026

WHITE BEAR LAKE | CONTRIBUTED

The above chart shows an annual comparison of transaction types the License Bureau handled from 2020 to 2026.

of June 30, the city has received $339,343.

Interest revenues earned in 2026 are slightly higher than the same period in 2025.

License Bureau operations

When it comes to the License Bureau, revenues continue to trend lower in 2026 than 2025 while expenditures remain relatively steady over the past two years.

“Our customer contacts are lower these first six months of 2026 than in any post-pandemic year,” Kindsvater said.

The decrease in revenues is coming from two primary sources — electronic title transactions (EVTR) and driver’s license transactions. Through the EVTR process, dealerships start the title work before forwarding it on to the city, which then forwards it on to the state.

Kindsvater said that the number of EVTR transactions processed in 2026 has been considerably lower than the high-volume years of 2024 and 2025.

She said the shift may mean fewer consumers are choosing to purchase vehicles through dealerships.

Driver’s license transactions, though lower than in 2025, continue to be a growing sector of the city’s

customer service. Though the volume of tab transactions dropped in 2025, the transaction count is rising in 2026.

Kindsvater noted that long customer lines associated with the REAL ID deadline in 2025 significantly reduced the number of customers visiting the license bureau to renew their license tabs. Kindsvater added that some customers may have chosen to process the transaction online or at a remote kiosk.

Council Member Andrea West said in her experience, she has had to wait in line while at the License Bureau but said that it goes “fairly quickly.”

She asked staff about the best time to visit for shorter lines. City Manager Lindy Crawford said, “midweek, midmonth, midday.” Kindsvater added that customers should try to avoid the end and beginning of the month, as the state sends out tab renewals at the end of the month and people start to get them at the beginning of the month.

She also reminded the council that the License Bureau is open later on Tuesdays, until 6 p.m.

“As I think about the next few months of what we need to look at …

We are seeing more customers return to our office for in-person service now that there are shorter customer lines,” Kindsvater said. “How do we

entice customers to visit our office as the state continues to promote online renewal processing options?”

She noted that the city of White Bear Lake receives a percentage of the fees charged for kiosk transactions, but it is not at the same level the city receives if the transactions are processed in the License Bureau.

Council Member Kevin Edberg said he wasn’t “terribly worried” about the numbers and thinks the city is in a “reasonable spot.” He suggested the city might want to consider doing a survey or study to dive into the topic deeper.

“We offer this as a service to our residents, and we do it for the purpose of making their lives easier, faster, less stressful. We succeeded most days; if we started consistently having expenses over revenues, that becomes a challenge, and we’d have to have a conversation.”

Kindsvater said city staff will continue to monitor customer traffic levels to determine if the numbers are a short-term trend or if they represent a greater change in customer activity.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-4071227 or whitebearnews@presspubs. com.

WHITE BEAR TOWNSHIP MEETING NOTES • A new stormwater project will help reduce flooding in the Bellaire Beach and South Shore Boulevard area. This includes a stormwater pond that will slow the flow of water, help reduce overflow into the roadway and prevent sand from washing out on the beach. Town Engineer Larry Poppler stated that while this project won’t address all stormwater concerns in the area, it will definitely help. Additional stormwater improvements are planned for the same area in 2027. The township worked with Ramsey County and Rice Creek Watershed District during the project design process. The Town Board has authorized advertisement for bids for this project, which is expected to cost $365,500. $93,000 of that cost will be funded by a grant awarded by Rice Creek Watershed District.

• A township-owned property on Lakewood Avenue has a new prospective buyer after a previous offer on the property was withdrawn.

However, closing would not take place until February 2027. Board Chair Ed Prudhon expressed reluctance to take this property off the market during the six-month wait. Legal counsel Chad Lemmons explained that the property can be kept on the market while the prospective buyer retains the first right of refusal to match any other offers or withdraw.

• The Town Board formally recognized Senator

Heather Gustafson, who was recently awarded a Legislator of Distinction award by the League of Minnesota Cities. Gustafson represents Senate District 36, which includes White Bear Township and several surrounding communities. “Senator Gustafson has been a really good partner to the township over the last few years,” said Township Administrator Patrick Christopherson. “She was key in acquiring our infrastructure money that we have in a specific fund for water, sewer and streets, primarily, and other action and projects we have around the township.” Township staff will compose a letter to Gustafson thanking her for her assistance to the community.

• Only one vacancy remains on the township’s advisory committees: a position on the Economic Development Authority Board. Any resident with an interest may serve on a township board or commission; visit the White Bear Township website at https://whitebeartownship.org/ to learn more.

• The road improvements to Anderlie Lane and the nearby County H2 Trail Project have caused distress to at least one resident of the neighborhood, who spoke during the public portion of the last Town Board meeting. She described early morning construction noise, internet lines being mistakenly cut, and accidental damage to her personal property caused by project workers. Poppler stated that the township holds weekly meetings with

project managers and strives to provide project updates on the town website as often as possible.

Underground work on the project is mostly complete, he said. Prudhon thanked the resident for bringing her perspective to the board’s attention so that corrections can be made.

• A resident of the Stoddart Lane area addressed the board to request support for the installation of a supplementary safety measure at the Centerville Road and East Oaks Road railroad crossing. The train whistle at this crossing is loud and disruptive, she said. The township has the ability to request a “quiet zone” designation from the Federal Railroad Administration. If additional safety measures can be installed at the crossing, the train would not be required to sound its horn as it approaches the intersection. Christopherson stated that this matter will be discussed at the township’s executive work session on Aug. 28. The same resident also noted yearly flooding issues near her home; Board Chair Prudhon responded that township staff will investigate.

The White Bear Town Board next meets at 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Sept. 9, at Heritage Hall, 4200 Otter Lake Road.

Jackie Bussjaeger

12 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

AUGUST 26, 2026

www.presspubs.com

COMMUNITY BRIEFS beginning at noon on Saturday, Sept.

6, and one race at noon on Sunday, Sept. 7. To register, visit bbyra.com.

Donate books, music, movies to library sale

CONTRIBUTED

The Black Bear Yacht Club will host its Grand Finale Regatta Sept. 6-7.

Keel boats invited to Grand Finale Regatta Keel boat owners are invited to join the Black Bear Yacht Racing Association in marking the end of the summer sailing season by participating in the Grand Finale Regatta. There will be two races

Ramsey County Library Friends is seeking donations for its upcoming used book sale. Donation of gently used books, vinyl, CD's, DVD's and puzzles can be brought to any Ramsey County location. Walk-in donations are limited to two boxes or bags per day. Guidelines for donating, a listing of the types of items that can and cannot be accepted, and general information can be found at rclfriends.org.

The next Friends Used Book Sale will be held Sept. 16-20 at the Roseville Library. Proceeds from Ramsey County Library Friends book sales and used bookstores benefit Ramsey County public libraries in Maplewood, Mounds View, New Brighton, North St. Paul, Roseville, Shoreview and White Bear Lake.

Mahtomedi Youth Hockey Association will host 2nd nICE Icebreaker

Icebreaker, the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, on Saturday, Sept.

19. The casual, 21+ event is open to the entire community — not just hockey Mike Snee families. Proceeds support the Rink of Dreams initiative and the Great Assist. Tickets are available now; prices increase Sept. 1.

Held on private property near Wildwood Elementary School, the evening will feature food from Kirkwood’s BBQ, a full bar, live music, a hole-in-one competition, bags tournament, exclusive merchandise and an auction. The event will also honor Mahtomedi community members who have passed away, including special tributes to Jessi Pierce Heinrichs and Andy Semlak.

Attendees will hear from keynote speaker Mike Snee, vice president of the Minnesota Wild Foundation and Community Relations and a longtime leader in Minnesota hockey and youth sports.

Funds raised will help the Rink of Dreams move toward its $1

million goal to purchase a full-size refrigerated hockey rink system, including boards, glass, player boxes, a refrigerated mat and chiller and doors that fully enclose the rink. The goal is to improve the middle rink at the District Education Center outdoor rinks and extend the skating season while reducing weather-related closures. Planned improvements also include a paved, striped and ADAcompliant parking lot. The Great Assist portion of the campaign helps remember Mahtomedi’s “Greats” and provides assistance to families with hockey fees.

The campaign, launched in September 2025, has already received support, but organizers say they are close to having enough funding to break ground. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www. zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2ndannual-mahtomedi-nice-icebreaker-2.

Carpooling to the event is encouraged, and attendees are asked to park on the right side of the street only.

The Mahtomedi Youth Hockey Association is gearing up for its second annual Mahtomedi nICE

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MONDAY

9:00AM BINGO @ JIMMY’S | 6:00PM BINGO @ SAK’S

TUESDAY

6:00PM BINGO @ JIMMY’S

FRIDAY

GO BEARS! SATURDAY

9:00AM BINGO @ JIMMY’S 5:00PM MEAT RAFFLE @ DOC’S & BEARTOWN | 6:00PM BINGO @ BEARTOWN

6:00PM BINGO @ JIMMY’S | 7:00PM BINGO @ WB BAR 5:00PM MEAT RAFFLES @ WB BAR & DOC’S 6:00PM TRI-WHEEL @ WB BAR 12:30PM BINGO @ SAK’S | 2:00PM MEAT RAFFLE @ COOPER'S 3:00PM BINGO @ COOPER'S 5:00PM MEAT RAFFLE @ JIMMY'S| 6:00PM TRI-WHEEL @ WB BAR

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White Bear Lake Shortest Marathon One Block Run SEPTEMBER 28th, 2024 - 11:00 am Bald Eagle Ave - 3rd to 2nd St.

RESOURCE FAIR

Gloria’s 12th Annual

14th Annual WhiteGloria’s Bear Lake Shortest Marathon Food Shelf Shortest Marathon T-shirts, White Castles, and otherRun treats will be included for Onewater Block Gloria’s 12th Annual registered participants in the marathon.

$35 (tax deductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your friends, to take it off your bucket list, and to aid a good cause.

SATURDAY

SEPT 19, 2026

Block Run White BearOne Lake Shortest Marathon SEPTEMBER 28 , 2024 - 11:00 am th

SEPTEMBER 28 , 2024 - 11:00 am BALD EAGLE AVE - 3rd St to 2nd St. th

White Bear Area

$35 (tax deductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your friends, Bald - 3rd to take itEagle off yourAve bucket list, to and2nd to aidSt. a good cause.

Care Across the Lifespan

registered participants in the marathon.

Insurance, Benefits & Community Resources

Explore Health & Wellness Career Opportunities

White BearArea Area White Bear

Navigate health insurance, Medicare coverage, Veterans benefits, City & County services & Community resources

Register by Sept. 19th to guarantee a T-shirt T-shirt pickup Sept. 27th from 4-6 pm at White Bear Food Shelf | 1884 Whitaker St. or day of marathon

Health, Wellness & Self-Care

Mental Health & Wellness, Fitness, massage, skin care, personal wellness services White Bear Lake Area High School Concessions 5045 Division Ave, Nautical Bowls, chips, hot dogs, nachos, candy White Bear Lake, and MN 55110 more!

Register to guarantee a T-shirt Register by by Sept.Sept 19th to9th guarantee a T-shirt T-shirt pickup 27th from pm at Register

by Sept.

Sept.

19th to 4-6 guarantee a T-shirt T-shirt pickup Sept.

18 from 4:30-5:30 at Food Shelfpickup | 1884 Whitaker St. orfrom day of4-6 marathon T-shirt Sept. 27th White White BearBear Lake Food Shelf 1884 Whitaker St.pm oratday of marathonScan here

Pediatric Care, Family Resources, aging in place, senior services, caregiving & end-of-life care resources

Some participating organizations will offer information about employment opportunities, careers and training in the health & wellness field

Kids Activities/Coloring Station

A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY STARTS WITH ALL OF US. We can’t wait to see you there!

863989

To register contact: www.whitebearfoodshelf.org for more info!

SPEC

Fantastic! Spectacular!

• Nicholas and Brody Roberts • White Bear Lake Superstore • Edwin and Susan McCarthy • Vicki and Si Ford • Nora McNeely Hurley and Michael Hurley • White Bear Yacht Club • Blaze Credit Union • White Bear Jewelers • Cossack Foundation • Walser Polar Chevrolet / Walser Polar Mazda • Paul Sutherland • Kevin and Polly Hart • Carlson Chiropractic • Steven and Shannon Whitaker • White Bear Mitsubishi • Commercial Plumbing and Heating • Joel and Rachel Moline PATRONS • Mark and Rebecca Shavlik • Rich Pakonen/PAK Management • Tom and Robin Nardini • Todd and Martha Nicholson • VFW Post #1782 • Greg and Julie Frandsen • White Bear Boat Works • Boleen Enterprises, Inc. • Thomas and Catherine Malecha SUPPORTERS • Scott and Anne Lingle • B & G Products Company • Douglas and Kathy Whitaker • Jean-Paul and Melissa Peltier • William and Patty Whitaker

The 4th of July Fireworks Display was “Sensational!”

Thousands of local residents gathered around the lake to view the spectacular 4th of July Fireworks.

The White Bear Lake Volunteer Fireworks Committee is proud to coordinate this event with the support and contributions from civic-minded members of our community. We thank you for your most generous support.

FRIENDS • Guy and Melanie Ahlstrom • Alliance Insurance Advisors Agency • Jay and Beth Althof • William and Christine Anderson • Elwood Anderson • Steve Anderson • Abraham Appert • Susan Armstrong • Jean and Michael Auger • Greg and Sandy Bartz • Susan Beane • Patricia and Russell Becker • Nancy and Brian Beich • Bryan and Lael Belisle • Valerie and Kenneth Blizzard • Allan and Nancy Boucher • John Bowers, Jr. • John Boyle, Jr. • Richard and Mary Brainerd Trustee • Patricia Broen • Albert Burth • Janet Callahan • Kathleen Callahan Baker • Victoria and Bruce Canterbury • Raymond Caturia • Roy Christensen, Sr. • Ann and Peter Clark • Donna Claude • Delpha Close • Mary Dunn and Gregory Cotterell • Charles and Eileen Coughlen • Thomas & Margaret Couillard • Kevin and Sonia Curran • Stewart Daniels • Karen DeVet • Donald Dolan • Teresa and Eric Eberhardt • Cheryl Edwards • Robert Elsholtz • Shannon Ewart • Tamara Fagely • Tamara Fagely • Faye Bye Duvall Trustee Grant

• Kathleen Fick • Matthew and Elizabeth Finn • Jim Flink • Jogn Fortier • Shannon Foster • Bill Foussard • Marija Fox • Richard Galena • James and LeAnn Galvin • Romelle and William Gangl • William Gebhart • Paulette Genz • Gayle Gerth • Peter and Mary Gilbertson • Ruth Goehle • Robert Gross • Karen Gruetzmacher • Scott and Dorit Hafner • Theresa Hagen • Thomas and Amy Hammitt • Britta and Eric Hansen • Steve and Natasha Hanson • James and Susan Happe • Francis Harper • Dean and Sharon Hedlund • Timothy and Gretchen Held • Laurel Hemstad • Dorothy and Richard Hoel • Douglas & Victoria Holmen • Scott and C. A Howe • William and April Hudalla • Sarah Hynes • Jay and Cynthia Ihlenfeld • Gloria Jansen • Robert and Patricia Johanneck • Eugene and Kathleen Johnson • John Johnson • Andrew Kancans • Marilynn Kaplan • Alexandra Kaslow-Briggs • Carol Kelly • Karen Kendall • Ash and Sue Keswani • Denise Knutson • Catherine Krautkramer • David and Rosanna Kubiatowicz • Ronald and Susan Kuhn

• James Kvitrud • Margaret Langeslay • Ron Leaf • Michael and Sylvia Lovett • William Maass • Ann Magnusson • Linda Manders • McBride Enterprises, Inc. • Joan McGrath • Jason & Emily McIntyre • William and Stephanie McNamara • Carla McNertney • Sharon Merritt • Luke and Lori Michaud • Anthony and Joan Mieloch • Velma Miner • Paul and Marilyn Mork Trustee • Tracy and Doris Morrison • Maureen Mumbleau • Kevin and Molly Murphy • Shari and James Nepper • Michael and Beth Nevala • Carolyn Newell • Margaret Newmaster • Daniel and Judy Nuese • Bob and Pamela Nuffort • Nancy Oakes • Rachel Olson • Graydon and Shelley Page • Nancy Palma • Jerry Patten • Jane Pomaville • Press Publications • Steven Rasske • Geoff and Jean Ratte • Gloria Reichstadt • Maureen and John Reinhart • Dorothy Reische • Kathleen Richardson • Linda Rinehart • Jerome Rodrique • Reyne Rofuth • Martha Rogers • Craig Rousar • Karen Runze • Thomas & Claire Rykken • Mark and Maureen Sather • Kevin and Barbara Schmidt

• Peter and Phyllis Schmit • Todd and Cindy Sherrett • Jason & Kristina Sherrett • Alex Sirko • Earl and Leah Smelser • Raymond and Anne Smith • Nan Steger • Thomas Stirling • Take 2 Inc. of Minnesota • Amy Tischler • Glen Tischler • Dennis Trooien • WR Van Arsdell • Judy and Cecil Van Booven • Barbara Veath • Kenneth and Elaine Vollbrecht • Frank Watson • Steven Westby • Catherine Weyerhaeuser • Kathryn and John Whelan • Jack and Sue Whitaker • White Bear Lake Conservation District • Ronald and Mary Will • Charles and Barba Williams • Erika Winchell • Mark Wisniewski • Ward Woodrich • Greg Van Wormer

• Dick Galena • Mark Sather • Rick Juba • Bill Foussard • Bill Matschke • Frank Watson • Gene Altstatt • Kim Perkins • Pete Carlson DONORS • City of Birchwood Village • Linda O’Brien • Donald and Sharon Wright • Hopper’s Mini Donuts • Jane Jensen • Karen and James Quaday • R. C. and B. K. Anderson • Dan and Molly Ordway BUSINESS SPONSORS • White Bear Country Inn/Rudy’s Red Eye Grill • Press Publications/White Bear Press • Trade Press AGENCY SPONSORS • City of White Bear Lake • White Bear Lake Fire Dpt. • White Bear Lake Police Dpt. • Ramsey County Sheriff Water Patrol LEGEND

facebook.com/ WhiteBearLakeFireworks

863610

MAJOR SPONSORS MAJOR SPONSORS

WHITE BEAR LAKE FIREWORKS COMMITTEE

Major Sponsors………$1,000.00 & Over Patron……………….$500.00 to $999.00 Supporter….………..$250.00 to $499.00 Donor……………….$200.00 to $249.00 Friend….………………$1.00 to $199.00

864011

Food Shelf

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Enter through the west campus entrance off Bald Eagle Avenue

Health Care & Specialty Services

Chiropractic, Dental, Dermatology, Eye, Hearing screening, Orthopedic, Urgent Care, OB/GYN, vaccination & more!

T-shirts, White Castles, water andtreats other treats will T-shirts, White Castles, water and other will be included for be included for registered participants in the marathon. registered participants in the marathon.

To register contact: www.whitebearfoodshelf.org

5045 Division Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

$40 $35 (tax(taxdeductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your deductible) Gives you the privilege to impress your friends, White Castles, and other treats will included for cause. friends, T-shirts, tototake yourwater bucket list, and tobeaid a good take it it off off your bucket list, and to aid a good cause.

Bear Food Shelf | 1884 Whitaker St. or day of marathon To White register contact: www.whitebearfoodshelf.org

White Bear Lake Area High School

11AM - 2PM

Block Bald One Eagle Ave -2026 3rd to11:00AM 2nd St. SEPTEMBER 19,Run

To register contact: www.whitebearfoodshelf.org

13

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Gloria’s 12th Annual

Food Shelf Food Shelf

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

14 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

AUGUST 26, 2026

www.presspubs.com

Congratulations to the Peninsula parents for a job well done!

With Artemis and Apollo now airborne and thriving, the parents have moved on and are preparing for their impending migration. A few “grandparent” Loons have taken a shine to Apollo, while Artemis is on her own, for now.

IS THIS GOODBYE?

August 3-12, 2026

Loon Chronicles XI: Is this goodbye?

Hats off to the Peninsula parents for doing such an excellent job watching over and raising their chicks! During the first two months, post-hatch, the parents spent countless hours teaching Artemis and Apollo how to fish, dive, preen, call, do wing flaps and foot waggles, nap safely, follow a safety plan, and, finally, to fly. Loon parents are known to separate from their chicks, six to eight weeks post-hatch. We last saw the Peninsula parents with their chicks in late July, almost ten weeks post-hatch; extra time well spent, yet bittersweet. The photo in the center frame shows Artemis touching papa Loon’s chest with her foot.

Perhaps, a farewell. We have spotted the parents mixing it up

with the expanding groups of Loons from neighboring lakes and up north. During the next month, they will be focusing on bulking up and preparing for their winter migration, before heading to Lake Michigan, for a two-week layover, in late September.

As predicted, the “grandparents” from up north, with their prominent ore-stained chests, have arrived. During our early morning outings, and lately, at sunset, we have spotted Apollo circling the neck of one of the grandparents and fishing together.

Apollo still takes cover in the bulrushes and will venture out when the grandparents appear. Last week, we came upon a group of agitated Loons, wing-rowing, yodeling, and assuming

ELLEN MAAS | CONTRIBUTED

the Penguin posture. Suddenly, Apollo emerged from under the water and erupted into an energetic and caustic Penguin dance, of his own. The older Loons took note and quickly left. A few minutes later, one of the grandparents returned and joined Apollo for the rest of the evening. Artemis is harder to spot, because she is flying and fishing all over the lake. We are not used to seeing the chicks apart from each other. Hopefully, this is only temporary, as they spread their wings during the next few weeks.

Ellen Maas

WHITE BEAR LAKE CONSERVATION DISTRICT BRIEF Resident requests change to outlet level Luke Michaud is hoping the White Bear Lake Conservation District Board will adopt a resolution requesting the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to return the lake outlet to 925.4 feet.

Michaud, who served on the board as a representative for the city of

Mahtomedi for 26 years, told the board that he was already removing his boats from the lake due to the water level.

“Too many folks, even on this board, want to call this the new normal, and it’s really not normal. This is not a normal lake level,” he said. “At least half of the problems that the board faces on a regular basis would be addressed if we were back up to a

normal lake level.”

Michaud explained that back in 1986, the DNR lowered the outlet from 925.4 feet to 924.4 feet. “That was done to the best of my knowledge without any consultation with the conservation board,” he said.

He added that he has requested information from the DNR related to why that was done, and he plans to bring back what he learns to the

board at a future meeting.

“We need to address the level, and I think this is a good first step to at least get us back to normal times for the outflow and see if we can’t raise the water level,” Michaud said.

Shannon Granholm

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MIDWEST SKI OTTERS: Cap 2026 tournament season PAGE 19

PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Classic late summer song selection Above: A cool, steady breeze off of White Bear Lake helped keep the crowd gathered on the lawn outside the historic Fillebrown House comfortable during the recent annual Pops on the Porch event.

Above: Passersby could also enjoy a snippet of the neighborhood musical performance as they walked and rolled along the Lake Avenue trail.

At Left: Some pets and their owners were among the crowd members gathered outside for the late summer tradition, sponsored by the White Bear Lake Area Historical Society.

At right: Members of the Moonlight Serenaders played a mix of classic and contemporary music.

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 Basements ♦ Foundations ♦ Garages

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FREE ESTIMATES

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www.RealWaterproofing.com

WINDOW CLEANING

A Cut Above Tree Service

Licensed Insured Licensed Insured Free Free Estimates Estimates Tree Removal Tree Removal and Trimming Tree Trimming Emergency Storm Damage Emergency Damage StumpStorm Grinding Senior and Military Local Family OwnedDiscounts Business Local Family Owned Business www.facebook.com/acutabovetreecareservice www.acutabovetreecareservice.com www.acutabovetreeservice.com

651-334-9063

Cutting Edge Window Cleaning We don’t cut corners, we clean ‘em!

Residential Window Cleaning Exterior Only Call Jeff for a free estimate

651-283-8770

Press Publications suggests that you be aware of advertisers requesting payment for shipping merchandise.

Confirm and verify all contact resources prior to sending any money. Take caution when responding to text messages that are not local numbers.

Deadline for Classified Line and display ads Thursday 4pm | 651407-1250 | classified@presspubs.com

23

Free Items Free Woodchips 5 Loads or more Hugo Area Only

651*/426*8660

150

Help Wanted Pine Tree Apple Orchard in White Bear Lake is now hiring PT & FT for Bakery Production & Retail Sales Day, evening, and weekends No exp necessary Apply in person Thurs, Aug., 27, 1-4p or call 651*/429*7202 after Aug. 28th pinetreeappleorchard. com

Rudy's Redeye Grill is looking for a broiler cook for nights & weekends.

Must have one year of experience.

Fast, Dependable, Insured

WATERPROOFING GENE’S TREE SERVICE & STUMP GRINDING

S E R V I C E

CLASSIFIEDS

D I R E C T O R Y

Please call 651-272-3783 and ask for Jacqlyn or send resumes to

150

362

Help Wanted

Miscellaneous

Centennial School District NOW HIRING: Kid's Club Staff, Custodians, Nurses, Food Service Staff, Paraprofessionals To apply visit: isd12.org/joinour-team

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired.

Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844/220-9501 today!

Kind Hearts Assited Living, LLC in WBL is hiring a Personal Caregiver. Mon-Fri, some wknds, 7a-3p and 3p-10p, Contact Adam: 763*/222*4838 or adamfele64@gmail.com Rudy's Redeye Grill is HIRING a broiler cook for nights & weekends. Must have one yr exp. Cll Jacqlyn @ 651*/272*3783 or send resume to Jschoen@whitebearcountryinn.com

300

For Sale 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis L S 46,000 Acutal Miles $8,500 Large Watch Fob Collection 763/784*7686 952/245*3160

362

Miscellaneous DON¡ÇT

LET

THE

STAIRS LIMIT YOUR JSchoen@ whitebearcountryinn.com MOBILITY! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 866/852*5506

Fun Fall Jobs Great seasonal jobs.

No experience necessary.

Positions available:

• Bakery Production • Retail Sales PT & FT – Day, evening and weekend hours available.

Great job for all ages.

Apply In Person:

Thursday Aug., 27, 1-4 PLEASE CALL FOR ADDITIONAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES AFTER AUG. 28TH 651.429.7202

Pine Tree Apple Orchard

North of White Bear Lake East Hwy 96 on

Apple Orchard Road pinetreeappleorchard.com

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free install, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies, plus limited time up to $600 In gift cards. Call today! 855/*562*4309 NO MORE CLEANING OUT GUTTERS Guaranteed! LeafFilter is backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty.

Call today 888/755*5761 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Get 15% off your entire order. Plus, Military & Seniors get an additional 10% off. Limited time only. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details.

REPAIRING OR REPLACING APPLIANCES and home systems like heating and cooling can be costly. A home warranty plan can help.

Start saving and get 30% off any plan today.

Workmanship Guarantee included.

Terms apply. Call Cinch Home Services 855/887*4521 SAFE STEP NORTH America s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1,600 off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 833/*966*3882

369

Want to Buy WANTED: ALL 1970S MOTORCYCLES Running or not. Titled or not. Will pick up.

Cash in exchange.

Sell now before prices fall. Call Dan at 612/*720*2142

We’re hiring a

Personal Caregiver

Monday – Friday Some weekends 7am – 3pm and 3pm-10pm Pay is negotiable.

Contact Adam at 763-222-4838 or adamfele64@ gmail.com

Pet Services Since 1989

Personal Touch Pet Grooming “When Quality and Service Matter”

763 784-4833 TDD 784-0662 Dial 711 for Relay Assistance

White Bear Lake

Deb Molin Certified Master Groomer 200 Marian Ct., Circle Pines, MN 55014

369

Want to Buy WE BUY HOUSES for cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 844/*978*0683 We Buy Vinyl Records Lps, 45s, Stereo Equip We make house calls by appointment.

White Bear Lake Records 4775 Banning Ave,WBL wblrecords.com 651/224-4947

403

Boutiques POP UP MARKET Sat Aug 29th 10a-3p

At Christ The King Lutheran Church 1660 Birch Lake Av, White Bear Lake Fundraiser for El Amor de Patricia Service Trip To help Children and Families in Guatemala

864454

REMODELING

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

404

Garage Sales Clean & organized!

Multi-family HH, furn., clothes, yard/gar., kids & antiq Cash/Venmo 8295 122nd St. N Hugo 8/27 8a-5p & 8/28 8a-4p

451

Rentals/ Commercial EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777.

The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

455

Want to Rent Looking to rent house, contract for deed, or fixer upper.

Willing to maintain home & yard. Call Mike 651*/777*7733

17

18 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

AUGUST 26, 2026

www.presspubs.com

Weekly Outlook SUNRISE/SUNSET AUGUST 26 - SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

6:27 8:00

6:29 7:59

6:30 7:57

6:31 7:55

6:32 7:53

6:33 7:51

6:35 7:50

Another reason to look forward to Wednesdays!

Weather Tidbits Brought to you by WeathermanWatson.com

Frank Watson

The weather pattern has been fairly active, just not here in the metro. The metro seems to be where rain goes to die. This August I’ve totaled a grand total of 0.44”. The greatest day of rainfall this month was on August 7 when I totaled 0.22”. The impact of lack of rain can really be seen on White Bear Lake where the shoreline is exposing the lakebed. In the past year, White Bear Lake’s level is down 13”. Area ponds and wetlands are noticeably down as well. Right now the outlook is bleak for any significant rainfall totals. Otherwise, temperatures have been great for getting outdoors.

WEEKLY AVERAGES HIGH LOW SUN PCP

77° 58° 64% 0.93”

Like to fly?

Interested in Aviation?

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the area. Frank can be found on the internet at WeathermanWatson.com.

Sponsored by

James Sanchez White Bear Lake Realty

OBITUARIES

Paul K. Wax Age 64, of White Bear Lake, passed away on August 8, 2026.

He is survived by his wife Judy; Children Jennelle Przytulski (Erik), Stephanie Geary (Andy), Phillip Wax; Grandchildren Kaylee Geary, Max & Owen Przytulski; sisters Julia Foote (Randy), Sheila Kaufer (Jerry), many nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 23, 2026 from 4 - 8pm at the American Legion, 2210 3rd St, White Bear Lake.

4790 Banning Avenue • Downtown White Bear Lake 651-653-7326 • www.wblrealty.com

David W. O’Brien

In Remembrance

Age 74 of Hugo, MN. Passed away unexpectedly on August 11, 2026. A Celebration of Life for David will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, starting at 2:00 p.m. at the Rosetown American Legion Post 542, 700 County Road C West, Roseville, Minnesota.

Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944

Check out the Minnesota Flyer

Momma, It’s hard to believe it’s been 6 months since you’ve been gone.

Not a day goes by that I don’t think about you and miss you like crazy. I am grateful for the many memories we had and the love that we shared. I know you are looking down on me and I pray that I am making you proud. I love you more than words can express.

I’ll see you, again, someday.

Submitting Public Notices Including Foreclosures, Certificates of Assumed Name, Liens, Probates and all other Public Notice Requirements

Subscribe

Contact: Lisa, Myrna or Evelyn E-Mail: Legals@presspubs.com Call: 651-407-1200

55+ Driver Safety, $36: In-person: Sep 10, 9am,1pm | Sep 22, 12-4pm| Oct 21, 12-4pm History w/KathySimmer-The Hmong Among Us: Aug/28, 10am-Noon, $18, Sr Center History w/KathySimmer-The History of Congress: Sep 11, 10am-Noon, $18, Sr Center Chair Yoga: Mon, Sep 14-28, 10-10:45am,$24, Sr Center Are We Talking Hospice?: Sep 15, 10-11:30am, $5, Sr Center Day Trip: Stillwater Trolley Tour & Lunch, Sep 15, 9:30am-1:30pm, $75, Sr Center Misty Deer Oil Painting: Sep 21, 5-9 pm, $55, Sr Center Memory Cafe: Sep 17, 9:30-11:30am, Free, Sr Center Aging Eyes: Sep 24, 10-11:30am, Free, Sr Center Fraud & Scans Aimed at Seniors: Sep 24, 1-2:30pm, Free, Sr Center Bingo & Breakfast: Sep 25, 9:30-11am, $5, Sr Center Day Trips: Oct 14-Crow River Winery & Bistro and Carlson’s Orchard and Bakery, Nov 13-Twin Cities Model Train Museum & The Original Malt Show, Dec 9-ANNIE @ Chanhassen Dinner Theater, Dec 15-Afternoon Tea at the St Paul Hotel.

FootCare Clinic: 30-minute appointment, $60, Call to schedule: 651-653-3121 Meals on Wheels: Hot or Frozen meals delivered Mon-Fri. If you are interested, know of someone who may need meals, call 651-653-3123.

864411

LYNGBLOMSTEN COMMUNITY SERVICES Resources for family caregivers. Are you or someone you know seeking support as you care for a person living with memory loss? Lyngblomsten Community Services is here to help you navigate your caregiving journey.

We specialize in memory loss support. Contact us to learn more about available community resources, The Gathering group respite, educational opportunities, and support groups. Our trained staff are ready to listen and assist you in taking the next step on your journey.

Memory Loss Caregiver Support Group. Family and friends caring for someone living with memory loss are welcome. A virtual support group meets at 10:30 AM on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. An in-person support group meets at 10:30 AM the 4th Tuesday of each month at Lyngblomsten at Lino Lakes (6070 Blanchard Blvd., Lino Lakes). Registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

Light Up Someone’s Day! Volunteer with The Gathering. The Gathering is an award-winning group respite program for adults with early-to mid-stage

memory which offers fun and meaningful interactions with participants and volunteers while giving a break to their care partner. The Gathering is held three days a week on the Lyngblomsten St. Paul and Lino Lakes Campus’.

To learn more contact Lyngblomsten Volunteer Services at (651) 632-5499.

Subscribe to the Caregiving Compass e-newsletter. The Caregiving Compass is a free quarterly publication from Lyngblomsten Community Services. This e-Newsletter provides a variety of helpful resources for your caregiving journey, including information about upcoming opportunities, links to online resources, and advice from Lyngblomsten staff. To subscribe, complete the online form at www.Lyngblomsten.org/Subscribe or contact Lisa Brown at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org For more information about Lyngblomsten Community Services contact Lisa Brown, MSW, LISW, at (651) 632-5320 or caregiving@lyngblomsten.org Lyngblomsten Community Services is supported in part by gifts made to the Lyngblomsten Foundation and is funded under an award with MAAA as part of the Older Americans Act

MAHTOMEDI COMMUNITY EDUCATION ADULT ACTIVITIES AT THE MAHTOMEDI DISTRICT EDUCATION CENTER (DEC) 1520 MAHTOMEDI AVE.

Everything You Want to Know About Medicare - Tai Chi - $85. Wednesdays, Sept. 23rd-Nov. 11th, 8-9 $5. Tuesday, September 1st, 10-11:30 pm. pm. Matoska International School.

Zumba Gold - $65. Fridays, Sept. 4th-Oct. 23rd, 9-9:45 Landmark Travel Tours Presentation - FREE. am.

Thursday, September 24th, 1-3 pm.

How to Play Bridge: Popular Conventions - $65.

All activities are held at the DEC unless otherwise Strength and Balance (55+) - $129. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 8th-Oct. 22nd, 1:15-2 pm.

Mondays, Sept. 28th-Nov. 16th, 9-11 am. noted.

FREE for SilverSneakers, RenewActive, OnePass, or Indoor Herb Garden - $49. Monday, September 29th, Mondays: Mahjong - FREE 1-3 pm Silver&Fit. 5:30-7:30pm.

Bingo - FREE. Monday, March 30th Fall Embroidery on a Flour Sack Tea Towel - $35.

55+ Defensive Driving - $35.Tuesday, September Tuesdays: Cribbage - FREE 1-3 pm Monday, September 14th, 6-7:30 pm.

29th, 9 am-1 pm. VIRTUAL. Wednesdays: Bridge - FREE 12:30-3:30 pm Day Trip: Historic Stillwater Trolley Tour & Lunch - Getting Started in Hydroponic Gardening - $30.

Thursdays: 500 Cards - FREE 12:30-3 pm $75. Tuesday, September 15th, 9:30 Wednesday, September 30th, 6-7:30 pm.

Fridays: Games - FREE 12:30-3 pm; Bridge - FREE am-1:30 pm.

Sunrise District Center.

1-3 pm; Foundation for Retirement - $49. 1 Guest Included, BINGO - FREE. Monday, September 28th, 1:30-3pm.

Book Club - FREE 2nd Friday, 10-11:30 am 6-8:30 pm Why Minnesota Elections are Secure - FREE. The following requires registration: mahtomedi.

Thursdays, September 17th and 24th or Tuesdays, Monday, October 5th, 10-11 am. ce.eleyo.com or call 651-407-2018 September 22nd and 29th

Smarter downsizing starts here.

CO O P E R AT I V E OA K M A R S H CONTINUE YOUR STORY

Own It! 62+ Cooperative | EstoriaOakMarsh.com

Check out the progress at 8001 4th Street N, Oakdale.

Call for details 612.874.2000 864347

WHITE BEAR AREA SENIOR CENTER The White Bear Area Senior Center has weekly activities and classes. Register at 651-6533121. The Sr Center moves back to 2399 Cedar Avenue (Door D) on August 25.

4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110, www.presspubs.com, 651-407-1200 • Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

864352

(218) 485-4406 mnflyer.com

1x6 SPEC

Love, Corinna

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

AUGUST 26, 2026

www.presspubs.com

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

19

Midwest Ski Otters cap tournament season The Midwest Ski Otters capped off their 2026 tournament season with a historic finish, earning seventh place at the Division I National Show Ski Championships in Evansdale, Iowa. The finish marked the highest national team placement in Ski Otters history.

The Otters earned their trip to Nationals after finishing second at the Midwest Regional Show Ski Tournament, also held in Evansdale.

That performance qualified the team to advance to Nationals and compete against top Division I show ski teams from across the country.

Several Ski Otters also represented the team in individual competition, highlighted by Caroline Grubs, capturing the National Open Swivel Championship.

The victory marked Grubs' second national title in three years. She first won the National Open Swivel Championship in 2024, followed by a second-place finish in 2025, and returned to the top of the podium in 2026.

The Otters also earned a spot on the national podium in Strap Doubles, with Eric Bruun and Taylor Laughlin placing third. Two additional Otter doubles couples finished among the top 10, with Alan Elfert and Rosalie Quinn placing seventh and Joel Gardner and Claire Gardner finishing 10th.

In Swivel Pairs, Brooke Elfert and Brook Wendt placed 12th, while the Midwest Ski Otters Team Jump finished 11th. Evan Marcus also represented the Otters in Freestyle Jump, finishing 12th in the nation.

A tournament season defined by more than scores

Caroline Grubs captured the National Open Swivel Championship.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

The Midwest Ski Otters form a four-tier pyramid.

The road to the Otters' highest-ever Nationals finish wasn't necessarily an easy one. Weather became part of the story at both Regionals and Nationals.

At the Midwest Regional Tournament, the Ski Otters were the final team scheduled to compete.

By the time they took to the water, the heat index had climbed to approximately 110 degrees, leaving skiers and volunteers to manage extreme heat while preparing for one of their most important performances of the season. Despite the conditions, the Otters finished second, securing their place at Nationals.

A few weeks later, Nationals brought almost the exact opposite.

The Otters' show-up time was 6 a.m., while it was still dark, giving the team time to unload, organize equipment, and prepare for the day ahead. Competition was scheduled to

begin at 8 a.m., but the rain had other plans.

What followed was nearly a fivehour rain delay. Eventually, the rain cleared, competition got underway, and the Ski Otters ultimately skied their way to seventh place and the best Nationals finish in team history.

Based in White Bear Lake, the Midwest Ski Otters are an allvolunteer organization whose members spend their summers performing free community water ski shows while also training for regional and national competition.

The team's historic 7th place national finish, a National Swivel Championship, a Strap Doubles podium finish, and several other top national performances made the 2026 tournament season one to remember.

Contributed

Eric Bruun and Taylor Laughlin placed third in Strap Doubles.

Torrid hitting carries Bears to Junior Legion state crown

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

Torrid hitting carried Bears to Junior Legion state crown The White Bear Lake U16 baseball team that won the state Junior Legion tournament championship was a hard-hitting group, as shown in season statistics released by coach Carson Cooper.

Max Butters led the Bears with a .514 batting average (38-for-74) and 33 runs-batted-in. He logged 19 runs and 10 doubles. Butters was named Most Valuable Player in the state tournament, where he also pitched an 8-4 win over Alexandria in the finals.

Also over .400 were Will Connors at .431 with a team-leading 36 runs, 19 RBI’s and one homer; Wyatt Reilly

CONTRIBUTED

Max Butters, state tournament MVP, posed with the team championship.

at .420 with 23 RBI’s and 19 runs; and Ben Brockman at .411 and 15 RBI’s.

Also over .300 were Dalton Klamerus at .368

with 22 RBI’s and 24 runs; Andrew Wiener at .367; and Carson Sonnet at .308.

The Bears finished 2110. At both the district and state tournaments (reported in our Aug. 5 edition), they lost their first game but came back through the sudden-death bracket to place first. In the state tournament at Alexandria, they scored 77 runs in seven games.

They beat Alexandria 8-4 and 13-2 in the finals.

Eight different pitchers had at least one win. The two main pitchers were Dom Fitzgerald with a 3-0 record and 1.63 ERA in 38 innings, Maddox Alexander with a 2-1 record an 2.12 ERA in 29 innings.

CARTER JOHNSON | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Tour De Bar raises over $52K for 2026 beneficiary This year’s Tour De Bar event raised $52,507.85 for Tina (Parnell) Lovett. She is battling Stage 3 invasive lobular breast cancer while managing perianal fistulizing Crohn’s disease.

See “Riding through life’s toughest journey,” White Bear Press, July 15, 2026.

CONTRIBUTED

Mahtomedi First Down hosts pancake breakfast The Mahtomedi First Down Foundation hosted its annual pancake breakfast fundraiser Saturday, Aug. 22, in the St. Andrew’s parking lot. During the event, players served meals in their jerseys to raise more than $1,000 for the high school football program.

20 WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS

AUGUST 26, 2026

www.presspubs.com

SP TTED AROUND TOWN

2

1

1.The White Bear Lake and Lake Johanna fire departments recently teamed up to honor their colleague Lisa Zumwalde, who was a Ramsey County Emergency Communicator for 25 years, with a memorial outside Rudy’s Redeye Grill during a celebration of life ceremony. — Paul Dols | Press Publications 2. Four candidates running for White Bear Lake Area School Board recently hosted a meet and greet event at The Minnesotan downtown.

Pictured (from left) are: Colleen Berquist, Dan Arcand, Bob Krominga and Melissa Roberts. — Contributed 3. Congrats to Emmie Wiedemann and Shayne Frost, who recently got engaged on a dock on White Bear Lake. — Lizzy Fasching Photography, contributed

3

Send us your photos for possible inclusion in Spotted Around Town. Please email your best shot to whitebearnews@presspubs.com. Please include information about when and where it was taken and who is in the photo.

Temperatures are still hot and so are Blaze certificate rates.

% 4.30

Save the date!

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

APY*

12-Month Jumbo Certificate

2026 White Bear Area

Senior Health Fair Calling all Vendors for Seniors 55+

HOSTED BY:

White Bear Senior Center

•Health & Wellness •Assisted Housing •Flu Shots •Financial Wellbeing

PRICE ADJUSTMENT

LOCALLY OWNED

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY). Jumbo Certificate requires a $100,000 Minimum Opening Deposit & Required Minimum to Obtain APY. All dividends are calculated daily and paid quarterly at calendar quarter end and maturity.

APY accurate as of 8/3/2026. The APY stated is based on the assumption that dividends will remain on deposit until maturity; a withdrawal of dividends will reduce earnings. Accountholder may be subject to an early withdrawal penalty. Early withdrawal may cause loss of accrued dividends not yet paid.

At maturity, the certificate will automatically renew under the new current rate and terms of the 12-month Jumbo certificate. Dividends will begin to accrue on the business day your deposits (including non-cash items/checks) are posted to your account. Dividends will continue to accrue during the Grace Period. Offer subject to termination at any time. Insured by NCUA

863164

651.215.3500 • blazecu.com

863986

Wednesday, September 16, 2026 12-2 pm • Senior Center 2399 Cedar Ave., White Bear Lake

JUST LISTED

White Bear Lake Realty BEST VALUE

LEADING THE INDUSTRY

$1,795,000

Luxury estate | 5 bed, 4 bath, 5,900 sqft 11 car garage Executive office/conference/kitchen above garage 100 year old barn ready for your desires in great shape

SAVING HOMEOWNER $53,850 IN COMMISSIONS

James Sanchez Broker-owner

Your Trusted Expert Since 1993

1%

TO SELL

1289 County Rd D Circle E • Vadnais Heights

$275,000

End unit townhome 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2 car Over 1700 finished sqft |Large room sizes 694 & Hwy 61 864483

7040 132nd St N • Hugo

4790 Banning Avenue • Downtown White Bear Lake 651-653-7326 • www.wblrealty.com JUST SOLD 4372 Victor Path #2 • Hugo

$339,900

4 bed, 4 bath, 3 level townhome | Over 2,300 finished sqft Beautiful updates/upgrades Located next to services, restaurants, Festival Foods

SAVED HOMEOWNER $10,197 COMMISSIONS

JUST SOLD

7520 217th St N • Forest Lake

$1,275,000

Legacy property 150ft of lakeshore on Forest Lake Unheard of 2.89 acres Exceptional 3 bed, 3 bath home Totally remodeled in 2026 Still plenty of room to grow

SAVED HOMEOWNER $38,250 IN COMMISSIONS

1980 3rd Street • White Bear Lake 797753

JUST SOLD

SAVING HOMEOWNER $8,250 IN COMMISSIONS

$320,000

Cute quaint 2 bed, 1 bath, 1 car | Rambler style w/ unfinished basement | Very spacious yard Located 3 blocks from Downtown WBL

SAVED HOMEOWNER $15,000 IN COMMISSIONS