ERIK
Hygge.
Hibernating!
Wyoming residents rev up the racing scene with passion, speed and singing
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Speed, singing and sportsmanship; those are the three s-words that make up the lives of Wyoming residents Kevin, Eli and CC Kramer.
Eli, now 19, has been passionate about racing fast for as long as he can remember. This love took him from racing BMX bikes at only 3 years of age to competing in multiple side-byside races throughout many different states. CC, 11, has been singing since she started practicing at 5 and is now dedicated to singing the National Anthem at past and upcoming races her brother has/will be participating in.
“For Eli, I enjoy watching him do what God made him to do,” said Kevin, CC and Eli’s father. “I like to think he came out of the womb with a steering wheel and handlebar in his hands; he was born to race. For CC, I love seeing how she gains confidence every time she sings. She was a bit nervous to start, but now she’s bold and confident.” Eli, for his part, says that his love of motorsports has always been with him. “I’ve liked it pretty much ever since I was born,” said Eli. “I had a small electric ATV (all-terrain vehicle) when I was younger, and I just wanted to race something.”
Eli’s first race, when he was just 3 years old, took place at Rehbein Arena in Lino Lakes, an indoor BMX racing track that, while since permanently closed, is still a memory he recalls 16 years later. In his own words, Eli described the event as “a bunch of little kids on tiny bikes on a dirt course.
“It was nothing super fast,” Eli added. “But we were all pretty competitive.” While he played hockey on his high school team (prior to his graduation from Forest Lake High School in 2023), Eli continued to compete in BMX and dirt bike races until 2020, when a newfound interest in side-by-side racing prompted him to switch to the latter for competitive racing. This switch also prompted Kevin to form a side-by-side racing team for Eli to participate in: Kramer Motorsports.
“Racing was kind of just a hobby for us when we were doing BMX and dirt bike racing,” explained Kevin. “But when Eli got into side-by-side, that triggered us to start Kramer Motorsports. I could see it was getting more serious, and we wanted to run it more like a business.”
Since helping form Kramer Motorsports, Eli has taken to competing in 25 side-by-side races per year across five different states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri and California. Of these 25 races, 16 of them were in the Amsoil Champ Off-Road Series, a short-course off-road racing series, while the remaining are smaller race series not run by Amsoil. These additional races include the Iceman 500 in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, the SRX Off-Road Ranch IRACE Series in Poplar, Wisconsin, Hay Days National in North Branch,
and the MacLeod County Fair Races in Hutchinson.
Although Eli is the only official racer on the Kramer Motorsports team, Kevin refers to it as a “team” because other people join them during the racing season. “We usually have four to five people who make up different roles, including Eli as the driver, Cole, our spotter, Brian, our engineer, myself, the team owner, and the sponsor relations,” said Kevin. “That’s why we refer to it as a team.”
Some of Eli’s notable racing wins include winning the 2024 Iceman 500 in the Pro-Stock category, second place at the 2022 2nd Place Hay Days National in Pro-Stock, Runner-up at the 2024 2024 SRX Off-Road Ranch in Pro-Turbo and third at the 2023 Hay Days National. But in the Kramer family, it isn’t just speed and aerodynamics that make up the trio’s core. For CC, 11, her biggest hobby is singing. “I watched a lot of people having fun singing, and I kind of just wanted to be like them,” said CC. She officially made her debut singing the National Anthem at the July ERX Off-Road National in Elk River this past summer and will also be singing at the ERX Snocross National on March 8 and at next summer’s ERX Off-Road National (both held in Elk River) on July 13.
In addition to singing, CC has also performed on stage in different plays, including the leading role in “Ashti’s Journey to Jazz” at Hanifl Performing Arts Center in White Bear Lake, which was held in July. Kramer will also perform in the center’s production of “Alice In Wonderland” next February at Forest Lake High School. “I would like to sing in front of everybody,” said CC, who said she hopes to see herself singing on Broadway someday.
For the 2025 racing season, Kevin says that Kramer Motorsports will jump from racing at the amateur level to professional, where they will compete against the best races and race teams nationwide. Eli will be racing in the Pro SxS (side-by-side) class. Although he has racked up his fair share of awards in past racing seasons, he and Kevin maintain that it is never the physical prizes they receive that motivate them to do well.
“We don’t view losing as bad,” said Kevin. “We try to say, ‘If we didn’t win a race, we don’t say we lost. We say that we learned. It’s also a learning opportunity, and we think about something we could have done differently or better. I think that perspective has helped, because when you get to this level, the competition is so intense that it’s hard to be on the
podium every week. That’s why we don’t consider it losing, but learning.” Kevin said that he thanks both God and Kramer Motorsports sponsors for allowing them to keep racing. These sponsors include PleasureLand RV Center, Blake Drilling, Meyer Contracting, Up North Retreats, Chickfil-A, Black Label and Co., Polaris RZR, Keizer Aluminum and I Am Second. More information on Kramer Motorsports and the Amsoil Champ Off-Road Series can be found on their official websites at www. kramer-motorsports.com and www. champoffroad.com, respectively. More information on the races not associated with the Amsoil Champ Off-Road Series can be found at www. iceman500-race.com, www.srxoffroad. com, www.haydays.com and www. mcleodcountyfair.com.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him by email at lowdownnews@ presspubs.com or by phone at 651-407-1229.
PHOTOS BY KRAMER MOTORSPORTS | CONTRIBUTED
CC, Eli and Kevin Kramer are three Wyoming residents who have dedicated themselves to competitive racing and singing.
Eli poses beside his side-by-side vehicle at the 2024 Bark River International Raceway in Bark River, Michigan. This race is part of the Amsoil Championship Off-Road Racing Series.
Eli has been performing an average of 25 side-by-side races since switching to the sport in 2020.
CC, 11, has been singing since she was 5 years old, and made her first appearance singing the National Anthem at the July ERX OffRoad National in Elk River this past summer.
OUT & ABOUT
WORLD SNOW CELEBRATION 2025
When: Sunday, Jan. 15-Thursday, Jan. 26
Where: 201 Water St. N, Stillwater
CONTRIBUTED
Details: Snow sculpting teams around the world compete to earn prize money and earn the title of World Champion. Will also include daily ongoing activities such as Taste of the Nations, Indoor Market and Fat Tire Bike Rally, among others. Contact: 651-439-4001 or info@greaterstillwaterchamber.com
ONGOING EVENTS
LAKE ELMO ROTARY CLUB MEETING
When: 7-8 a.m., 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Wednesday of every month
Where: Lake Elmo Inn, 3442 Lake Elmo Ave N, Lake Elmo
Details: Join us for the Lake Elmo Rotary Club’s meeting on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Wednesday of each month. Please RSVP your attendance to Liz Niehaus, secretary (lmjohnson3@ hotmail.com) the Monday prior to the meeting. Contact: lmjohnson3@hotmail.com
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS
When: 1-4 p.m., every Sunday
Where: The Freight House, 305 Water St.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
City of Stillwater seeks Planning Commission applicants
The city of Stillwater seeks citizens who are interested in serving on its Planning Commission. The commission, which acts as the city’s planning agency, consists of seven members, each of whom serves threeyear terms. Members meet at 7 p.m. on
S, Stillwater
Details: Enjoy live patio music at the Freight House from your favorite local musicians.
Contact: 651-439-5718
BINGO AT THE CURRENT
When: 2-4 p.m., every Sunday
Where: Afton House Inn / Current, 3291 St. Croix Trail S, Afton
Details: Bring your family and friends for weekly Bingo and win some cash prizes!
Contact: 651-436-8883 or info@ aftonhouseinn.com
FREIGHT HOUSE HAPPY HOUR
When: 4-6 p.m., Monday through Thursday Where: The Freight House, 305 Water St. S, Stillwater
the third Wednesday of each month in the City Hall Council Chambers. Applicants must have personal and professional experience related to the board’s subject areas, community and city government knowledge, and experience from similar appointments. Those interested in applying can do so on the city’s website at stillwatermn. gov by selecting “City Government,” then “Boards & Commissions” and “Planning Commission.” Applications
DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES BRIEF
Ice is never 100% safe
The Department of Natural Resources reminds Minnesotans to be safe about ice this winter. When is ice safe? There really is no sure answer. You can’t judge the strength of ice just by its appearance, age, thickness, temperature or whether the ice is covered with snow. Strength is based on all these factors — plus the depth of water under the ice, size of the water body, water chemistry and currents, the distribution of the load on the ice, and local
CALENDAR BRIEFS
Beer dinner returns to Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter
The Gasthaus Bavarian Hunter Restaurant will host its highly anticipated Beer Dinner at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18. Attendees will be honored with a four-course banquet dinner. During each course, a different Paulaner beer brewed in Munich will be served that is specially selected
Details: Come to the Freight House for $2 off all draft beer and select apps. Available both inside and on the patio.
Contact: 651-439-5718
DATE NIGHT
When: 4-9 p.m., every Wednesday
Where: Swirl Wine Club inside the Afton House Inn, 3291 St. Croix Trail S., Afton
Details: Wednesdays are Date Night here at Swirl! 2 salads, 1 flatbread, 2 truffles, and a bottle of house wine. Contact: 651-436-8883 or info@ aftonhouseinn.com
LIVE MUSIC FRIDAYS
When: 6:30-9:30 p.m., every Friday Where: The Freight House, 305 Water St. S., Stillwater
Details: Join the Freight House for Live Music on the Patio from 6:30-9:30 p.m. every Friday. Featuring some of your favorite local musicians. Featuring Cabliss Vodka Seltzers and Grainbelt Premium.
Contact: 651-439-5718
TREAT YOURSELF TUESDAY
When: 5-8 p.m., 2nd Tuesday of every month
Where: Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe, 5946 Osgood Ave N., Oak Park Heights Details: Ladies’ night at Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe. Each month will feature a different cigar and drink pairing. There will be alcoholic and nonalcoholic options, all designed to bring out notes in the cigar.
Contact: 651-342-0971
BETTER BREATHERS CLUB
When: 1-3 p.m., 4th Wednesday of every month
Where: Lakeview Hospital, 927 Churchill St. W., Stillwater
Details: Better Breathers Club offers the opportunity to learn ways to better cope with chronic lung disease while getting the support of others who share in your struggles. Family members, friends and support persons are welcome. Registration is free, and those
are due by noon on Monday, Jan. 13. For more information, contact City Clerk Beth Wolf at 651-430-8800.
Franconia Sculpture Park seeks fully funded residencies
Franconia Sculpture Park is seeking funding for its 2025 programs through its residency open calls. For next year,
climatic conditions.
Many factors other than thickness affect ice strength, including air temperature, wind, snow, streams, narrow areas or bottlenecks, sun, shade, fish communities, plant decay and more. When a layer of snow melts and refreezes on top of lake ice, it creates white ice, only about half as strong as new, clear ice.
For more information about ice safety, or how to check ice thickness, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ safety/ice/check-ice-thickness.html.
to pair with the food that is being served with each course. The event is ticketed, with space limited to 50 attendees. Tickets are available for sale only on site and in person at the mainlevel Gasthaus bar. The menu for the evening, as well as other information about the event, can be viewed online at www.gasthausbavarianhunter. com/2025-beer-dinner/. Those with questions can contact the Gasthaus at
interested can do so at www.eventbrite.com/e/betterbreathers-club-stillwaterregistration-319033887947
Contact: 651-430-4786 or jenny.j.kratochvil@lakeview.org
CURRENT EVENTS
AR WORKSHOP AT THE AFTON HOUSE INN
When: 6-9 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 14
Where: Afton House Inn, 3291 St. Croix Trail S., Afton
Details: Hat Burning Workshop at the Afton House Inn. Create your own unique hat designs with the help of AR Workshop experts. Complimentary wine provided. Register online at www.arworkshop.com/events/ stillwatermn/471386
Contact: 651-321-1029
MAXIMIZE YOUR METABOLISM CLASS
When: 6:30-8 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 14
Where: Stronger Wellness and Nutrition, 5805A Neal Ave N., Stillwater
Details: For women over 45. Come learn about how to maximize your gut and discuss hormone imbalance, nutrient deficiencies and gut health with a strong community feel. Register online at www.strongerwellnessandnutrition. com/w45-monthly-classes. Contact: wellnessgal@yahoo.com
LAKE ELMO ROTARY CLUB BINGO/ RAFFLE FUNDRAISER
When: 5-9 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 30
Where: Lake Elmo Inn Event Center, 3712 Layton Ave N., Lake Elmo
Details: Enjoy a night of fun and prizes at the Lake Elmo Rotary Club’s Bingo and Raffle Fundraiser. Dinner is at 5 p.m., and prepaid ticket is required. Bingo and raffle start at 6 p.m. More details to follow on lakeelmorotarty. com and the official Lake Elmo Rotary Club Facebook page. Contact: lmjohnson3@hotmail.com
the park is committed to featuring only fully funded residencies for these programs and requires donations of any amount to make this happen. Those interested in donating can do so at www.franconia.org/donate/. Checks can also be mailed to Franconia Sculpture Park, 29836 St. Croix Trail, Shafer, MN 55074. Those with questions can contact Franconia staff at 651-2576668 or info@franconia.org.
651-439-7128. The Gasthaus is located at 8390 Lofton Ave., Stillwater.
Stillwater radio operators to hold worldwide communication event
Members of the Stillwater Amateur Radio Association (SARA) will set up at Belwin Conservancy’s Savanna Center (795 Indian Trail S., Afton) on Jan. 2-4 to communicate with other radio operators around the world. This event is free and open to the public. Check www.radioham.org for lastminute details. Those with questions can contact Dave Glas at 651-260-6086 or w0oxb.sara@gmail.com, as well as Susan Haugh at 651-425-1147 or susan. haugh@belwin.org.
VINTAGE VIEWFINDER
Many years before Stillwater hosted the World Snow Sculpting Championship, Chester,
and Donald
work on a trio of sculptures outside the family home. The photo, dated approximately 1894, is attributed to Frank T. Wilson.
Three keys to Garden Success
WGardener’s
ell, it’s winter and what do Minnesota gardeners do during the winter months? Plan their spring garden, of course! Whether you are just starting a new garden or looking to refresh your current garden space, it is not too early to start making plans for spring 2025. If you have a garden already and have journaled what you planted, where you planted, what thrived and what struggled to grow, you are ahead of the game. If you are looking to start a garden, there is much to prepare in order to place your first seeds into the soil this spring. In either case, this is the time to plan. As a garden consultant, I help experienced gardeners and beginners alike to overcome obstacles and obtain their goals for a kitchen garden of their dreams.
In last month’s column, I touched on the reasons why I have always had a kitchen garden and how my reasons have shifted more toward growing healthy, chemical free, organic food for my family. A key prerequisite for planning any garden design is choosing priorities because it will determine how to structure
the garden and planting plans for a positive outcome. These are the five top priorities I have identified as a garden consultant; however, you may know of others.
1. Maximum productivity to preserve, provide for the family and share with neighbors and charitable organizations.
2. The experience of growing new and interesting plants.
3. The aesthetics and beauty of a garden and how it adds to the landscape of the property.
4. The convenience of the garden’s location to the back door, with easy-to-reach plants in order to tend and harvest, with plant selections that are easy to grow.
5. The impact on the environment, nurturing wildlife with renewable and sustainable methods.
All of these are important and certainly included in my personal list; however, placing them in order of importance is a key step to a garden plan. How would you list them for your garden?
Once priorities are determined, it is time to consider the three keys for a successful garden.
1. Set up - The first key being the most important is the set up. This includes location to water and maximum sun, planting in ground or using raised beds, trellises for vertical growing plants, borders, pathways and use of covers for protection. All of these bring success however without proper soil the garden
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•
•
will fail. Soil needs to have three components; one third compost, one third good top soil, and one third course sand for drainage. Check with your source for soil to be sure you are getting a proper mixture, as not every nursery or landscape outlet provides this combination in their garden soil.
2. Timing - The second key for success is timing. Knowing the average temperatures in each month helps determine the seasons for proper planting. Not every plant tolerates the high temperatures of summer, and some plants thrive in cool and even cold temperatures. Understanding plant families and what season they grow best in provides for a more productive garden. I take the time with my clients to coach them through this process of when to plant which plants during the various seasons in our local climate.
3. Impact - The third key is understanding intensive planting, tending, pruning and proper harvesting within a plant plan for each season. Planning now will prepare you for a great 2025 garden. I consider the client’s priorities, integrating the three keys for success to create a custom garden plan.
Contact me, Crystal Crocker at 952 240-4648 or GoodEnergyGarden@gmail. com to schedule a consultation to learn more and begin your kitchen garden journey.
Crystal Crocker is a Stilleater resident and longtime gardener.
THE LOWDOWN | letter guidelines
I found the glow
Back in May, I saw a horror movie that, I’ll admit, snatched my curiosity in a way most movies usually don’t.
That movie was “I Saw The TV Glow.”
The film follows teenagers Owen and Maddy, who bond over watching a Buffy The Vampire Slayertype monster-hunting show. That bond, however, soon develops into an unhealthy obsession, leading them to question their realities and identities. For context, the story is more of a psychological drama than an outright horror movie. If anything, it’s real “horror” comes from Owen and Maddy, who believe their lives have no purpose and choose to waste the greater part of their younger years being obsessed with the false reality the show has to offer them.
Suchy’s Scoop
Erik Suchy
What I found so relatable about this movie is what I interpreted its main theme to be. Life is short enough as is, and you only have so much time breathing to make an impact before the sand in the hourglass runs out. What will your impact have been when you leave this Earth? A legacy of success and personal achievements, or a broken road of lost opportunities?
It’s because of this theme that I am writing this column. I have been right where Owen was for most of hist 20s: lost and scared to make anything out of myself. As much as I’ve aspired to be an excellent creative writer, hoping to be a best-selling author someday, I have hardly written anything this year outside of my job, even in the way of doing journal entries.
My aspirations, however, have not been limited to writing. I also told myself I would return to photography to take more portraits and see if they would lead me to create any fun projects I could display in a museum someday. Again, little, if any action has been taken here as well.
So what exactly went wrong? Simple: fear. I was so terrified of not succeeding in doing any of these things on the first try that I had already thrown in the towel. I wanted a quick and nonexistent way to succeed without feeling what it was like to put in the blood, sweat, and tears into doing so, all because I was so nervous about encountering failure.
That is, until recently.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve felt a change come over me. I can’t explain it, but it feels like I’m taking back control of myself. I’m finding myself less on social media and more making pre-emptive plans to set up a daily writing routine and a new reading one. Additionally, I’ve re-discovered my love of portrait photography, and am reaching out to aspiring models around Minneapolis to do some fun, local shoots downtown.
Slowly but surely, I am letting go of my past fears of letting myself down. Day by day, I no longer identify as an “Owen,” too scared to face reality, shackled by a lack of perseverance. I no longer care if the first several short stories I write are garbled, plotless dreck or if it will take me longer than average to develop the writing/photography skills I would like to have.
I know who I am now.
Erik Suchy. Aspiring novelist.
Photographer extraordinaire.
And a reporter at the best local newspaper in White Bear Lake.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. he can be reached at 651-407-1229 or email at lowdownnews@presspubs.com.
IMAGE COURTESY OF GALE FAMILY LIBRARY
Robert
Wilson
Community Thread finds new executive director
WHERE BUSINESS AND SUCCESS MEET JJ’s Auction Service
Introducing JJ’s Auction Service, a trusted auction company based in North Branch, Minnesota, specializing in estate sales, farm equipment, and real estate auctions. With years of experience, Jim and his team provide personalized and professional services to ensure successful auctions for their clients. Jim has a vast knowledge of antiques and collectibles. This is supplemented by an expertise in many unique items, which he gained through his past work as a machinist, mechanic, and restaurant owner. Give him a call at 612-801-3068. Sarah Grace Photography
Sarah Grace Photography, a premier photography studio in Blaine, Minnesota, specializing in senior and professional portrait photography. Sarah’s ecoconscious approach and personalized attention ensure that each client feels comfortable and confident, resulting in authentic and stunning portraits. Sarah’s clients consistently praise her professionalism and ability to capture their true personalities. Experience the exceptional service and expertise of Sarah Grace Photography for yourself. Schedule a call today to discuss your photography needs and book your personalized session. Call her at 747-900-1497 or email at Sarah@sarahgracephotos.com.
Community Thread has selected Hastings resident Derrick Jaeger as the company’s new executive director. Jaeger has had a 26year career with the YMCA, including 15 years in executive roles, chairing business associations and collaborating with key community leaders. Most recently, Jaeger worked as senior director for the Equity Innovation
business
Center at YMCA of the North. Jaeger is replacing outgoing director Sally Anderson, who retired in December after serving for 11 years.
New
future
district governor chosen for Rotary Club
Lonny Stormo has been selected to serve as the new district governor for the Stillwater Sunrise Rotary Club, a role he will begin in the 2027-28 year. Stormo currently serves as the club’s team lead for public image and has been a Rotarian since 2016, with Rich Cummings as his sponsor. He also served as president of the Stillwater Sunrise Club from 2022 to 2023 and has remained active in district grants at the club level. Lonny is married to Janet Stormo, a fellow Rotarian who is actively involved in supporting club projects and activities.
Brady Grewe owns and operates the business in Lake Elmo, which focuses on water damage restoration, fire and smoke remediation, and mold removal in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding areas. Grewe, his staff, family, friends, Greater Stillwater Chamber ambassadors and staff are in attendance.
NAMES IN THE NEWS
Washington County Star Trail Association: Clearing the way for snowmobilers
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
If you’re from Washington County and enjoy taking your beloved, rip-roaring snowmobiles through miles and miles of winter trails, look no further: the Washington County Star Trail Association has your back.
The association’s website states that its mission is to “promote, protect, and preserve snowmobiling by providing designated, safe, and maintained snowmobile trails within Washington County.” The entire trail system is 140 miles long, reaching from Cottage Grove to Scandia, and extends through various cities such as Afton, Lake Elmo, Stillwater, Grant and Hugo, among others.
According to association President John Udstuen, the trail system’s uniqueness is that it provides riders with many paths to travel outside Washington County to different cities, states and
countries. “We are what we call the last way out of the cities and snowmobile north,” said. “That’s why we’re so protective of it. From where we’re at in Washington County, I can go from here to Duluth. We run all the time to Grantsburg, Wisconsin, and I go from here to Canada on my group trails. If we ever lost Washington County, there is no real way out.”
These trails are called “corridor trails,” designated specifically for snowmobiles to travel on. They serve as connectors between other towns, cities and parks and are DNR-protected. According to Udstuen, one such trail is located in Hugo and is simply called “Corridor Trail No. 42,” which snowmobilers can take to go north. “I know it goes way past Hinckley,” said Udstuen, “and this thing will take you as far as you want. I don’t know where it stops dead at.”
One of the most popular routes, in Udstuen’s opinion, is the section of trail that goes around Lake Elmo Park Preserve, which he says will give snowmobilers a unique feeling. “We have a trail that runs around the lake, which makes you feel like you’re in the middle of the country,” said Udstuen. “We have a warming house there, also.” Typically, warming houses are small, heated shelters located along snowmobile trails where riders can stop at and warm up. There are currently three warming houses located around the trail system: in Lake Elmo, Cottage Grove and Grant. Udstuen says that the association has plans to build a fourth house next to Big Marine Lake. “We’re going to be building that probably
Abigail Sklavenitis
Abigail Sklavenitis, a Forest Lake junior, helped the Rangers start the hockey season 3-0 by delivering two goals and four assists. The 5-foot-9 forward scored on a power play and made two assists in a 5-1 win over East Ridge. She scored 47 seconds after the face-off against Gentry Academy and added two assists in a 4-0 win. Last season, Sklavenitis logged 12 goals and 10 assists for a team that finished 11-14-1. She also plays lacrosse and tennis.
Connor Johnson, junior, quarterback, helped the Forest Lake football team post a 7-3 record as an accurate passer and running threat. He completed 78 of 124 passes, 63%, for 1,003 yards and 10 touchdowns. He kept the ball 91 times for 354 net yards and six touchdowns. In a 45-7 playoff win over Buffalo, Johnson was 7-for-9 for 63 yards and ran four times for 63 yards. In the conference finale, a 42-7 win over Roseville, he was 4-for-6 for 92 yards and one touchdown and ran for a touchdown.
next summer,” said Udstuen. According to Udstuen, the planned warming house comes after a six-year process for the association to utilize the trails around Big Marine Lake for snowmobiles. “There’s no motorized vehicles allowed to go through Big Marine Lake Park Reserve,” said Udstuen. “All those people who live on that lake have been saying for years that they want legal access off the lake with their snowmobiles, and they have never had access to it. It was a struggle to get permission to run the vehicles through, and there was a lot of work to be done, so to get the trail in was a process.”
Further improvements have been made to the aforementioned Lake Elmo Park Reserve trail loop, which originally did not form a complete circuit throughout the area. “That’s taken us about five years also,” noted Udstuen. “That trail will officially make a complete loop this year, so we’re pretty excited about that.”
Most of the association’s funding comes through charitable gambling, which goes toward buying tractors and other equipment to keep the trails in shape. The association has four sites in Stillwater that conduct charitable gambling, the largest of which is located at Carbone’s Pizza on Osgood Avenue North. “We knew that without charitable gambling, the state of snowmobiling for Washington County was in a lot of trouble,” said Udstuen. He noted that while the association does receive money from the DNR to operate, none of the funds received go toward buying new equipment. “All of this is
OF
achieved through charitable gambling, which gets people feeling alive and excited that they don’t see this thing dying.”
However, not all money earned through charitable gambling goes directly to the organization; the association is also a frequent donor to the Hugo Good Neighbors Food Shelf and White Bear Lake Area High Schools. “We’ve done some stuff for fundraising for people who have been really sick,” said Udstuen. “We try to give about 10 to 15% of what we earn outside of snowmobiling.”
The DNR mandates that all trails around Washington County must be open from Dec. 1 through April 1, and while Udstuen maintains he has never seen a trail closure, he says the association would still take preemptive measures in case something were to happen that would lead to a trail closure. “We would do something if a tree fell down or if there was some kind of catastrophic issue that happened with one of the landowners,” said Udstuen. “If there was a snowstorm, where you’ve got wind blowing and plows trying to
throw all the snow out, we’re going to jump in and try to groom the trails.”
On the association’s future, Udstuen hopes to continue to uphold snowmobiling as a great community sport for all to enjoy. “The future of this sport, so long as I am sitting at the helm, will be to continue to spread the word of what snowmobiling means to the community,” said Udstuen. “We will continue to get trails to deliberately go into businesses, so our snowmobilers are spending money at them. We will continue to let people know that we provide income for cities and continue to paint the story that we’re providing income. We are a family sport and a volunteer group that costs taxpayers no money whatsoever.”
Those interested in learning more about the Star Trail Association, or to see a complete map of the trail system, can visit its website at www.startrail.org.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him by email at lowdownnews@ presspubs.com or by phone at 651-407-1229.
George Nelson
George Nelson was the on the Stillwater cross country team that placed second in the conference and section meets and sixth in the state meet. Nelson, a junior, placed 24th in the Class 3A state meet in 16:12.9 to earn all-state honors (top 25). Nelson finished 12th in the Suburban East Conference meet in 16:04, and third in the Section 4AA meet in 16:04.
Rylee Lawrence, Stillwater junior and forward for the soccer team, led the Ponies in scoring with 16 goals and 11 assists in 14 games. The Ponies had a 10-4-4 record. Lawrence tallied the lone goal in a 1-0 win over Centennial. She scored in a 3-3 tie with conference champion, No. 1 ranked White Bear Lake. In the playoffs, she had two goals in a 4-0 win over St. Paul Central. In three varsity seasons, she has logged 36 goals and 25 assists.
Forest Lake hockey
Stillwater cross country
Connor Johnson Rylee Lawrence
Forest Lake football
Stillwater soccer
John Udstuen is the current president of the Star Trail Association.
P HOTOS CONTRIBUTED
The Washington County Star Trail Association preserves snowmobiling by providing safe and maintained trails within Washington County.
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Marketfest is seeking an Event Director for 2025
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Send inquiries and resumes to Dan Perry at dan.perry@edwardjones.com
Snow Sculpture Contest returns with familiar and new activites
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Now in its fourth year, Stillwater’s Lowell Park will host an eye-popping handful of finely carved snow sculptures.
Twelve teams from 12 different countries — the first tie of its kind in history — will participate in the annual World Snow Sculpting Championship in January. Among many others, the teams will include Team Fjordwitches from Canada, Team Falcon from Mongolia, the Bocanegra Team from Spain and Sculptora Borealis from Wisconsin. All teams will compete for not just prize money, but also to take home the title of World Champion. The championship will be held from Jan. 15 through Jan. 26.
“It’s a great way to get outside, have a little wellness and come down at your leisure,” said Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Robin Anthony.
All 12 teams will arrive at Lowell Park at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15, for the Kickoff Ceremony, which will feature a welcome by Mayor Ted Kozlowski. Following a Tools Up! countdown at 9 a.m., when the teams will begin sculpting their creations, an opening ceremony will be held at the JX Event Center from 5 to 8 p.m. The ceremony will allow attendees to meet with the teams during a social hour and dinner.
Starting from Jan. 15 through Friday, Jan. 17, the teams will build their sculptures between 9 a.m. and midnight each day. By Saturday, Jan. 18, the teams will have from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to finish sculpting before the closing ceremony at 6 p.m. The ceremony will take place on the Main Stage, where the winning teams will be awarded first, second and third place, as well as the Artist’s Choice and People’s Choice awards. Trophies and prize money will be given to the winning teams. While attendees can expect the return of past
World Snow Sculpting Championship event highlights:
• Taste Of The Nations: Jan. 1-31
• Snow Slide:
– Friday, Jan. 17, 4-9 p.m.
– Saturday, Jan. 18, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
– Sunday, Jan. 19, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Candlelit Winter Walk: Friday, Jan. 17, 5-8 p.m.
• Snowman Building Experience: Monday, Jan. 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Accessibility Day: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 10 a.m.-
6 p.m.
• Fat Tire Bike Rally: Sunday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m.2 p.m.
favorite activities, such as the Water Street Inn’s Indoor Market and Warming House (held from Jan. 17-19), new activites will make their official debut. This includes a monthlong “Taste of the Nations,” from Jan. 1 to 31. Twelve local restaurants will feature the cuisine of one of the 12 participating teams’ homelands and serve a special entrée native to that country. The Chamber of Commerce has not yet confirmed a list of participating restaurants. Event buttons will be sold from Jan. 13-26, allowing shoppers to get special features at different businesses throughout the area. Other new features will include an “Accessibility Day” for seniors, veterans and disabled individuals from 10 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21. In partnership with American Legion Bayport, Limitless Cycling and Hometown Hero Outdoors, this day will allow these individuals to explore the area using Limitless Cycling-brand Action Freechairs. These chairs are specially made, all-terrain wheelchairs designed to “offer a new sense of freedom, joy, and independence in nature,” according to the company
website. The Bayport American Legion will sell water and hot chocolate on-site during this day. Additional events will include a Candlelit Winter Walk from 5 to 8 p.m. Jan. 17 along the Browns Creek Trail, and a “World’s Coolest Block Party” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Jan. 18, featuring a live DJ playing family-friendly music. There will also be a Snowman Building Experience held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20, where kids will get to build their own snowmen for display. The Fat Tire Bike Rally, which recently became a part of the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s “World Snow Celebration” festivities, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26. The course will start and end at River Siren Brewing on Main Street N., and participants can choose from three trail options. These include riding the 10-mile course or bypassing the two technical “racing” segments in Valley View Park (1.2 and 1.7 miles), shortening their course to 7.1 miles. More information on the ride can be found at www. bikereg.com/stillwater-fat-bike-rally-2025. Anthony said that she hopes this year’s contest will allow attendees to appreciate different kinds of art and diversity from all the teams competing against one another. “There’s something for everybody,” noted Anthony, “for toddlers all the way to seniors. It’s a beautiful backdrop against the St. Croix River, and a wonderful, family-fun experience to appreciate the state of the arts.”
For a complete list of dates and events to register for, please visit the World Snow Celebration 2025 website at www.worldsnowcelebration.com/ activities.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him by email at lowdownnews@ presspubs.com or by phone at 651-407-1229.
AGING GRACEFULLY AGING GRACEFULLY
The basics of financial literacy
A financial safety net can help people navigate the ups and downs of life. Developing that safety net requires a measure of financial literacy that anyone can nurture.
What is financial literacy?
The United States Department of Education defines financial literacy as an understanding of how to earn, manage and invest money. That recognition can increase the chances that individuals make sound financial decisions, thus setting them up for long-term success and stability.
What makes financial literacy so important?
The benefits of financial literacy are not limited to theoretical notions such as the ability to understand those more likely to make sound decisions regarding their finances. Indeed, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) notes that financial literacy has been proven to produce positive results. In its National Financial Capability Study, the FINRA found that respondents who exhibited higher financial literacy were more likely to make ends meet than those without such knowledge. Sixty-five percent of respondents
with higher financial literacy were able to set aside three months’ of emergency funds at higher levels than respondents with lower literacy levels. The study also linked financial literacy to long-term stability, as more than half of respondents (52%) with higher financial literacy calculated
their retirement savings needs, an important step that fewer than one in three (29%) with lower literacy levels had taken.
What are some additional benefits of financial literacy?
Individuals are often confronted
with a host of options when making financial decisions. That includes choices regarding bank accounts and credit cards, which are two variables related to financial literacy that individuals encounter every day. Individuals with financial literacy can pick a bank account that most suits their needs, whether that’s standard accounts like checking and savings or something more unique like a high-yield savings account. Knowledge of financial basics can also prepare individuals to choose the right credit card, which can be a more difficult decision than choosing a bank account given the number of different cards available. Low-APR, no-APR, travel rewards, cash-back cards and balance transfer cards are some of the options consumers can choose from when picking a credit card. Financial literacy increases the chances consumers pick the card that best suits their short- and long-term needs.
Financial literacy can help people navigate challenges that periodically arise during the course of everyone’s life. Taking time to learn some financial basics can set people up for long-term economic health.
2024 YEAR IN REVIEW
JANUARY
CONTRIBUTED
For the third year in a row, Stillwater welcomed wondrous and extremely detailed ice sculptures created from blocks of compacted snow and ice at the World Snow Championship. Twelve teams from eight different countries around the world put their creativity to the test during the Championship.
MAY
CONTRIBUTED
In 2002, Lily Lake, located in Stillwater, was placed on the impaired waters list due to excess phosphorus. The lake has been used as a recreational resource for the residents of Stillwater for over 100 years. Thirty to 50 years ago, it was once the city’s focal point. Due to multiple treatments by the Middle St. Croix Water Management Organization, the lake has since been removed from the impaired waters list.
SEPTEMBER
CONTRIBUTED
With a new year comes multiple construction projects. Due to housing growth within the Stillwater School District, two new schools are in the works. A new elementary school with be constructed in Bayport to replace the old Andersen Elementary School. In Lake Elmo, the new elementary school will be able to accommodate 1,100 students and will sit on a 12.8-acre site. Both schools are expected to be open for the start of the 2026 school year.
FEBRUARY
CONTRIBUTED
The Forest Lake Rotary kicked of 2024 with a splash by hosting its annual Winter Plunge. The Rotary Club puts on the Winter Plunge as a fundraiser in an effort to assist non-profit organizations. Lakes International Language Academy took the plunge into Forest Lake last year. Due to the lack of cold weather this winter, the plunge took place in a pool on shore.
JUNE
CONTRIBUTED
The Food Truck Extravaganza, hosted by the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, brings in over 40 trucks to the Washington County Fairgrounds for an afternoon of food and fun. This year, old favorites returned such as Tot Boss and the State Fair Cookie Co. New food trucks included Winnesota Wonder, a plant-based food truck.
OCTOBER
CONTRIBUTED
The Rivertown Art Festival took over Lowell Park once again early in October. The festival is one of the biggest art festivals in the Midwest, bringing in visitors from Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. This year over 190 artists were featured, making it the largest festival in its history. Artists showcased hand-crafted specialty items such as ceramics, jewelry, photography and other categories.
MARCH
CONTRIBUTED
The Journeymen Chorus was formed in 2022 and since then has sought to bring together the most accomplished barbershop singers in the upper Midwest. In March, the chorus made their debut in Minnesota. The group, alongside Vocality and First Ave., put on a concert at Trinity Lutheran Church in Stillwater.
JULY
CONTRIBUTED
What was once a café has become an artist studio belonging to Katy Helen Kalt, from Prior Lake, Minnesota, and Chicago native Emily Anderson. In December 2023, the two connected about starting a conjoined artist studio and gallery space. Kalt creates mirror mosaic surfboards while Anderson’s paintings focus on landscapes found in nature. Marine Village Studios is located at 41 Judd St., Marine on St. Croix, by appointment only.
NOVEMBER
CONTRIBUTED
Rescued Pets Are Wonderful (RPAW), started by Blaine resident Liz Gigler, focuses on adopting senior pets or pets with severe medical issues. The rescue is foster-based due to the benefits it can provide to the animals. They get to live in people’s homes, and they get the care as if they are a part of the family. Recently, RPAW was able to open their own veterinary clinic in Columbus, MN. In the future, the organization hopes to not only provide service for RPAW animals, but other animal recuses and shelters.
APRIL
CONTRIBUTED
Stillwater residents Mike and Kat Duncan opened their café in early 2024. Mike roasts all of the beans in-house and makes all of the coffee syrups in house too. Located in the North Hill neighborhood, the colorful coffee shop and roastery is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee on your way to downtown Stillwater.
AUGUST
CONTRIBUTED
Stillwater resident David Kaetterhenry, 28, was born with Down syndrome, but that has never stopped him from defying people’s expectations. David and childhood friend Chaz Lecy combined their strengths and passions to open a food truck, the Greater Tater. The Greater Tater can be found at Lumberjack Days, Warrens Cranberry Festival in Warrens, WI and more.
DECEMBER
PAUL DOLS |
Singer-song writer Ella Reid, Stillwater native, moved to Austin, Texas, with her husband, Shane Hawkinson, after he got relocated for his job. Around that same time, she began to write her own music. Recently, she wrote a Holiday track “That’s a Holiday” that was inspired by her parents. “I always think of Stillwater because that’s my hometown, that’s my home.” she explained “It’s where I had all my most memorable Christmases.” The song is a heartfelt tribute to the warmth of home, friendship and the joy of the holidays.
County board approves 2025 levies and budget
at a higher rate in every other metropolitan county but one, Dakota.
CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS
CREATE YOUR DREAM SPACE!
The Washington County Board of Commissioners has approved the county’s 2025 budget and the property tax levy that will support it.
The approved amounts are:
• $140,479,200 for the certified property tax levy, which includes $1.2 million for the Land and Water Legacy Program.
• $660,000 for the Regional Rail Authority levy.
The County Board also consented to a $6,578,185 levy for the Washington County Community Development Agency.
The approved property tax levy is an increase of 5.9% over 2024. The county tax rate will remain stable with recent years, increasing slightly from 22 in 2024 to 23.7 in 2025. A decline in existing home values in 2025 contributes to the increase in tax rate.
Since 2020, the county’s tax rate has fallen a total of 5.2%. The county had the third-lowest levy per capita in Minnesota. It also had the second-lowest tax rate in the seven-county metro area in 2024, meaning that a similarly valued property would be taxed
The approved 2025 budget includes expenditures of:
• $278,342,100 in operating expenses.
• $64,952,400 in capital investments.
• $17,441,400 in debt service.
The difference between what the levy supports and what the budget calls for in revenue will be provided by funding from other sources, including state County Program Aid. That is funding from the state Legislature designed to reduce local property tax levies while providing support for local programs.
The county will also receive additional state aid to boost public safety services, housing assistance, and library and public health programs.
Elements that shaped the 2025 budget include changes in service delivery to residents, including expanding the county’s coordinated response team that responds to mental health crisis service calls and opening two
new county facilities with the North Environmental Center in Forest Lake and Central Service and License Center in Woodbury. The county is also planning capital investments in 2025 for the Emergency Housing Services Building, county facility upgrades, electric vehicle charging station installation, road construction and park improvements. Population growth in the county is requiring additional services in libraries and other programs that provide direct service to residents. Inflationary pressures for salaries and wages, fuel for vehicles, and the increased cost of construction of buildings are also influencing operating expenses.
All budget presentations may be found on the county website. Archived livestreamed meetings may be found on the county website at WashingtonCountyMN. gov/CountyBoard. Budget documents presented at the workshops may be found at WashingtonCountyMN.gov/ Budget.
Washington County
The Lowdown Person of the Month
Name: Robert Hasel Residency: Stillwater, MN
Q: What brought you to Stillwater today?
A: My wife and I are out doing errands and getting some things at the River Market Community Co-op.
Q: What is your favorite winter activity?
PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF
Stillwater man charged
A Stillwater resident has been indicted and charged with possession of unregistered firearms and possession of explosives, firearms and ammunition. According to court documents from Nov. 2, 2024,
A: Snowshoeing and going on hikes.
Q: Lowdown Question of the Month: What is the best life advice?
A: Whatever you do, always follow your passion.
Compiled by Erik Suchy
Wayne Robert Lund, 46, illegally possessed eight destructive devices not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Lund had also kept explosives and hundreds of rounds of ammunition; due to prior felony convictions in Ramsey and Anoka Counties, Lund is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms, explosives or ammunition at any time. The
indictment charges Lund with one count of possession of unregistered firearms, one count of possessing explosives as a felon, one count of possessing firearms as a felon and one count of possession of ammunition as a felon. Lund appeared in U.S. District Court on Dec. 11 and was ordered to remain in custody pending further proceedings at his detention hearing on Dec. 16.
Robert