The Lowdown

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Pottery tour brings the best of American pottery to St. Croix Valley

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER REGIONAL STAFF WRITER

Pottery studios will once again open up their doors for the 31st annual St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour. The pottery tour will take place the weekend of May 12-14 at eight studios on the Minnesota bank of the St. Croix River. Hosts will invite guests to view their work, meet with the artists and find the right piece of pottery to take home with them.

This year, 71 of the most renowned ceramic artists in the U.S., as well as a few international artists, will participate in the tour. It’s a chance to see the work of some of the premiere potters in the U.S. and get a look inside the idyllic setting of a few select rural pottery studios.

The tour has expanded significantly from the days when influential potter Warren Mackenzie began opening his home studio in Stillwater to the public.

Mackenzie was a professor at the University of Minnesota, and many of his students moved into the area and became teachers themselves, populating the St. Croix Valley with some of the finest ceramic artists in the Midwest and beyond. Mackenzie passed away in 2018, but the tour has carried on his mission and his memory.

“Warren was very well known nationally and internationally as a defining functional pottery teacher,”

said Will Swanson, a longtime host potter on the tour. “He taught simplicity and humble pots, and a lot of us picked up on his idea that you could make pots for a living, and you can share them with the people who could buy them at a reasonable price.”

Mackenzie was a proponent of functional pottery— he believed there was a certain joy people could take from using unique, beautiful ceramics in their everyday lives. Mackenzie encouraged other local potters to begin offering their artwork in their own backyard.

“This tour is an extension of that,” Swanson said. “A number of us here that were somewhat well known nationally and regionally decided in 1993 to go together and have our sale on one weekend. We started calling it a pottery tour.”

Soon the host potters were asked to invite a guest potter from the region, and then it grew to include potters they’d met from across the country. Some of them are extremely well known in their field, and their pieces will likely sell for higher prices. But the tour always strives to include functional and affordably priced pottery in addition to the decorative pieces that might catch a collector’s eye. Many people travel far to see so many accomplished artists in one place, but it also gives residents of Minnesota a chance to meet with some of the country’s finest artists in their own backyard.

“It’s almost more satisfying when one of my neighbors comes over and I can sell him a coffee mug he

can keep in his pickup truck,” Swanson said.

The 2023 tour will include two new host potters. After many years as a guest artist, Peter Jadoonath will be opening his Shafer studio as a host this spring.

“I spent my formative pottery years attending the tour, picking up pots, turning them upside down, considering their weight, (and) to be entrusted to carry on the tradition now is surreal,” Jadoonath wrote.

Alana Cuellar will also be joining the group as a cohost at her dad Guillermo’s studio.

“It’s a special weekend,” Cuellar said. “Seeing so many beautiful pots on display and feeling the energy of the visitors is inspiring. I feel lucky to be part of it.”

The host locations include Linda Christianson’s unique studio and log home nestled in a clearing in the woods; Guillermo Cuellar’s hilltop home and studio overlooking the St. Croix River, where he works alongside his daughter Alana Cuellar; Peter Jadoonath’s studio with a view of big sky and rolling farm fields; Ani Kasten’s pottery gallery-in-a-barn; Matt Krousey’s picturesque, woodland home and studio; Jeff Oestreich’s early Minnesota farmstead remade into a home and studio; Will Swanson and Janel Jacobson’s studio close by Wild River State Park; and Richard Vincent’s oak-shaded backyard studio.

For more information, including a map and list of participating artists, visit minnesotapotters.com.

Vessel by St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour host Ani Kasten.

PHOTO BY AMBER WHITE | CONTRIBUTED

Guest potter Liz Quackenbush shares her work with visitors at host Ani Kasten’s studio.

Salt Cellar by St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour host Jeff Oetreich.

Croix Valley Pottery Tour host Richard Vincent.

Jar by St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour host Janel Jacobson.

Construction season set to begin in Washington County

Construction is considered the fifth season in Minnesota. Washington County has several construction projects happening this year.

Baytown Township

Proposed improvements include:

• Realign and add a traffic signal to the intersection of County Highway 14 and County Highway 24

• Reconstruct the existing Union Pacific Railroad crossing

• Resurface road

• Add turn lanes

• Improve drainage

• Improve intersection and corridor

Construction is scheduled to begin this spring/ summer and will be completed in one construction season.

May Township

Construction will begin this spring at Keller Avenue North/Keystone Avenue North (County Road 57) from 122nd Street North (County Highway 7) to 0.7 miles north of Lynch Road North.

Proposed improvements are as follows:

• Mill and overlay pavement

• Roadway culvert replacement

• Driveway culvert replacement and cleaning

• Ditch cleaning/regrading

• New signing and striping

• Replace mailboxes

The road will remain open to traffic; however, drivers should expect delays and periodic lane closures with flaggers present.

Stillwater

The County Highway 5 Pedestrian & Safety Improvement Project (Phase 2) is scheduled to begin this spring/summer. County Highway 5 is an important north-south link in the city of Stillwater. However, it currently lacks adequate pedestrian and bicycle accommodations and connectivity among facilities. A study conducted in 2014 recommended ways to improve facilities and connections for pedestrians and bicyclists, as well as improving safety and mobility for motorists on County Highway 5. The location is County Highway 5 from Pine Tree Trail to the south junction of Sycamore Street.

Proposed improvements are as follows:

• Resurface County Highway 5

• Stripe left turn lanes at Brick Street

• Replace damaged curb and gutter and catch basins

• Improve pedestrian accessibility and safety by replacing the existing sidewalks and adding a sidewalk on the west side from Wilkins Street to the south junction of Sycamore Street.

Stillwater Township

The County Road 61 (120th Street/Myeron Road) & Manning Avenue Pavement Improvement Project is located at County Highway 15 (Manning Avenue) to Myeron Road. Washington County will be improving the pavement on County Road 61 and County Highway 15. The project will also include intersection improvements at the intersection of 120th Street and Manning Avenue and drainage improvements along the corridor. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer.

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May the fourth be with you

through Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thank you for supporting your community newspaper.

Digital and cloud storage

What ever happened to the family photo album? We have albums and photo boxes filled with family photos that have been printed over the years. My cell phone and icloud host thousands more, and I have more digital files stored on DVD, jump drives and hard drives. Recently I received a notice from a digital photo service that stores photos for free that my files may be deleted if I didn’t make an annual purchase. I began to wonder how many vendors I have stored photos with and how do I retrieve them? With my cell phone being my primary camera now, can I be certain that everything I think is stored on the cloud actually is? Photos taken on social media platforms adds a whole other element, and are those stored somewhere? What if the platform changes or shuts down? Technology keeps changing, and it’s confusing how to best archive photos and other important documents digitally.

Perhaps some technologies are too good to be true, like totally free digital cloud storage. Our local IT company explained to me how many start-up cloud servers have gone by the wayside because they have been displaced by tech giants. I’m beginning to think the best way to ensure my photos aren’t lost is to go back to storing them on jump drives, and keeping an extra copy with a family member or in a safe or safety deposit box.

Double check where your photos and documents are being stored. It seems advisable to back up in multiple ways, as it is hard to keep up with the speed of technology and know which companies are guaranteed to be around.

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

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Along time ago in a movie theater not too far away I went to see the movie “Star Wars.” I was 9 years old and I remember being transported across the galaxy when a long space ship was gliding across the movie screen. Like many people, I was hooked. The international phenomenon of Star Wars had begun. May the fourth is a play on words of the phrase, “May the force be with you,” used by Jedi Masters throughout the franchise. I read somewhere that phrase was first used in 1979 on The London Evening News on May 4. It was the day when Margaret Thatcher became Prime Minister and her party ran a congratulatory advertisement saying, “May the fourth be with you, Maggie.”

Noelle’s

Notes

Noelle Olson

The second movie, “The Empire Strikes Back” was released on May 21, 1980. I’ve probably seen that movie 100 times throughout my life. It’s my favorite Star Wars movie and introduced my favorite character — the Jedi Master Yoda. He is small in size but wise and powerful. Yoda trained Jedi for over 800 years and is stronger than most in his connection with the force. My favorite scene with Yoda is in “Attack of the Clones” when he has a lightsaber battle with the Sith Lord Count Dooku. Let’s just say that the dark side was no match for Yoda’s speed and agility. The first time I saw it, I couldn’t stop laughing because Yoda ditches his cane and grabs his lightsaber. He continues to use the force by flying through the air with such perfection. After he grabs his cane like it was no big deal. Classic.

There was a 16-year gap between the “Return of the Jedi” and “The Phantom Menace.” Star Wars creator George Lucas took some time off to raise his kids. When it was announced he was going to do the Star Wars prequel movies, fans were excited and I was one of them. I bought tickets for opening day and went with my dad and my son Lukas —three generations of Star Wars fans. I have to say it wasn’t the greatest movie of the franchise but the most “craved.” Since then, Star Wars franchise has grown with more movies, TV shows and a theme park at Disney. Fans are getting plenty of material to satisfy the craving. Probably the most popular show now is “The Mandalorian.” It’s pretty good and they have a “baby Yoda” named Grogu. It reminds me of a western and people can stream it on Disney+. Luke Skywalker makes an appearance in season two, episode eight which is a must for Star Wars fans.

This Easter I was talking to Lukas who is now 31 years old. We were discussing all the Star Wars projects and he said I named him after Luke Skywalker. I told him I didn’t even think about that at the time. He laughed and said, “I think you did subconsciously.” Maybe I did. Everybody calls him Luke and he does seem to be strong with the force. So if someone tells you on May 4, “May the fourth be with you,” simply reply back and say, “And also with you.”

Noelle Olson is editor of the Lowdown for Press Publications. She can be reached at lowdownnews@presspublications.com

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Carter Johnson

STILLWATER MAP LEARN ABOUT THE STORE

1 Beloved Bridal opening in May

Where: 324 Main St. S. Suite 1, Stillwater

Website: https://belovedbridalmn.com/

About: Beloved Bridal carries the following bridal designers — Pronovias, Mori Lee, Martin Thornburg and Casablanca. Bridal is open for one on one appointments only and welcome groups up to eight people to join in your special day.

2 You and Me Cafe is now open

Where: 826 4th St. South, Stillwater

Website: https://www.youandmecafemn.com/

About: Relaxed place for eating and socializing. From counter service to our charming bistro atmosphere, You & Me is the perfect place to add a little deliciousness to your every day. Catch up with friends over a cup of coffee or relax with weekend brunch. Order take out for the family or for the office. Or treat yourself to afternoon tea and work out of the office. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week.

3 Locale Makers Market will be opening soon in the Grand Garage

Where: 324 Main St. S., Stillwater

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LocaleMakersMarket

About: Talented makers offer handmade art, honey, herbs, candles, pottery, crystals, jewelry, CBD, natural skin care, glass, wood, furniture, clothing and more.

4 Tossed

Where: Chesnut Street in Stillwater

Website: https://tossedllc.com/

About: Tossed offers fresh salads which are made to order with locally sourced produce in eco-friendly, recycled and 100% combustible containers. Tossed also offers charcuterie with a wide variety of meats and cheeses from around the world. Prepared fresh daily, ready to go in store or order ahead for that special occasion.

Do you know of a new business coming or going in the area? Tell us! Email us at lowdownnews@presspubs.com

Bison festival is back at Belwin Conservancy

The Belwin Conservancy will hold its annual Belwin Bison Festival on Saturday, May 20. This beloved festival marks the release of the 2023 NorthStar bison herd onto the Bison Prairie. In addition to the release, the event will feature food trucks, live music with a special performance by One Voice Mixed Chorus, ecoarts and more.

“Our relationship with Belwin is really the heartbeat of NorthStar and what bison, as a species, is all about: restoration and regeneration,” said Sean Graese of NorthStar Bison. “Restoring healthy ecosystems, healthy people and, ultimately, a healthy, thriving species. When you have that, everyone wins.”

The release of the bison has been a staple of Belwin’s restoration efforts since 2008, when NorthStar Bison first partnered with Belwin Conservancy to bring these animals back to their native prairie habitat. Each year, the spring release of the bison herd onto Belwin’s 130-acre Bison Prairie has been witnessed and celebrated by hundreds of people from across the Twin Cities and eastern Wisconsin.

In the morning, there will be a 5K “Run with the Bison Fun Run'' for joggers who want to run on the Bison Prairie before the festival begins. Check-in for the fun run is at 9 a.m. The run will start at 10 a.m. Registrations for this run are now active and can be found at https://bit.ly/3KEBocx.

Belwin staff members have witnessed firsthand just how effective the bison can be at restoring natural habitats.

“Since I joined Belwin, I’ve seen that the bison actually do a better job managing the prairie than anything we humans can do,” said Belwin Conservancy Operations Director Justin Sykora. “The diversity of the prairie has greatly improved since the bison have been coming. They are modifying our management strategy.”

Interesting facts about bison are as follows:

• As much as 99% of a bison’s diet is grass. An adult bison will consume up to 30 lb. of grass in a single day. The herd of juvenile males from NorthStar Bison will summer on Belwin’s 130-acre northern prairie, or Bison Prairie, eating the native grasses that have been restored on this former cropland.

• Bison bulls range in height from 5.5 to 7 feet at the shoulder; bulls can weigh up to 2,000 lb.

• Estimates are that 30 to 60 million bison may have roamed North America prior to 1600. Though they ranged across the continent, the majority lived on the Great Plains. Fewer than 1,000 bison remained before restoration efforts were undertaken beginning in the late 1800s.

Belwin Conservancy

IF YOU GO

Where: Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields, 15601 Hudson Road N. in Lakeland

When: Saturday, May 20

10 a.m.: 5K “Run with the Bison” fun run

Before the bison take to the prairie, have a fun run through it. Preregistration required. Runners may arrive for check-in starting at 9 a.m. There is a 10-minute walk to the starting line. $20 registration through May 19; $25 same-day registration.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Live music, activities in the tent and food trucks

12 to 1 p.m.: Arrival of the bison herd

The annual release of the bison will take place at the Bison Festival on Saturday May 20, at Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Field in Lakeland.

VINTAGE VIEWFINDER

A streetcar rolls past the Carnegie Library in Stillwater on a postcard dated 1910. Construction on the Beaux Arts style building started in 1902. It was among the hundreds of public libraries around the country built with funds provided by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who made his fortune selling his ironworks to U.S. Steel. The library was renovated and expanded in 1973 and 1986-87. According to the history section on the Stillwater Public Library website, the most recent 2006 building project successfully married old and new. The original stained glass windows have been repositioned to the interior of the building. Close copies, made from glass from the original manufacturer, can now be found throughout the library.

ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

*Athletes chosen by press sta

Hannah Tong Anna Corbid Forest Lake Softball Stillwater Softball

Hannah Tong, one of the leaders of Forest Lake’s state champion softball team as a sophomore, has started her junior season strongly, going 4-for-9 at the plate in the first three games, with three RBIs, while pitching six solid innings (two three-inning stints), allowing just one run and striking out ten. Last season, Tong had a 10-2 pitching record, capped by a shutout in the state finals, and hit .377 with three homers and 18 RBI’s. She has verbally committed to UM-Mankato.

Forest Lake Track & Field

Reid Olson, Forest Lake junior three-sport athlete, coming off a strong sophomore year in track, was one of the top sprinters in an indoor meet with 10 Suburban East Conference teams at White Bear Lake to open the season April 13. Olson placed fifth in the 200 dash with 23.72 and sixth in the 100 with 11.83. As a sophomore, he ran on section champion 4x200 and 4x400 relays, the latter of which placed seventh at state. He also placed sixth in the section 300 hurdles. Olson, 6-foot-3, is a forward in basketball (averaging 5.9 points this season) and wide receiver in football.

Anna Corbid, junior right-hander, sparked the Stillwater softball team to 4-0 start, pitching three of the games, allowing just eight hits and three runs (two earned) in 20 innings. Corbid twirled a two-hit shutout to beat White Bear Lake 3-0, then 5 1/3 innings (one unearned run) in a 7-5 win over Cretin-Derham Hall, then 5 2/3 innings (two runs) in a 4-3 win over defending state champion Forest Lake. Not overpowering (13 strikeouts so far), she keeps batters off balance and gets them out on grounders and pop-ups.

Stillwater Track & Field

Jackson Tweed, Stillwater senior pole-vaulter, cleared 14 feet, 6 inches, at a White Bear Lake indoor meet April 13, tying for third-best all-time at Stillwater. In the first two meets, he went 13-6 and 14-3, both in indoor meets at UM-Mankato. He placed first all three meets. Tweed’s prior personal best was 13-0 as a junior, which was his first year of vaulting (after the 2020 pandemic non season). Pole vault coach Ben Straka praised Tweed as a fine natural athlete who “puts in the preparation time to meet his goals” including weight-room dedication and getting plenty of reps at practices. Tweed has committed to Western Kentucky.

Reid Olson Jackson Tweed

CONTRIBUTED

'Cinderella'

When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 5; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, May 6; 2 p.m. Sunday, May 7

Where: Stillwater Area High School Auditorium

Details: Traditional story performed by dancers of St. Croix Ballet to the music of Prokofiev. Tickets online. Contact: stcroixballet.com

‘LA CAGE AUX FOLLES’

When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, through May 21; 7:30 p.m.

Monday, May 15

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

Details: Comic play performed by Lakeshore Players Theatre. Tickets $10-$30.

Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers. org

MINNESOTA’S GOLDEN AGE OF WRESTLING: FROM VERNE GAGNE TO THE ROAD WARRIORS

When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 2

Where: Washington County Heritage Center, 1862 South Greeley St., Stillwater

Details: Wrestling historian George Shire will discuss his new book about Minnesota's professional wrestling history. Free program; also available online.

Contact: 651-439-2298 or wchsmn.org/ event/wrestling3

TOTALLY CRIMINAL COCKTAIL HOUR

When: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 3

Where: Stillwater Zephyr Theatre, 601 N. Main St.

Details: Mystery lovers and authors come together for conversation and reading inspiration. May event features author Marcie Rendon. Cash bar. Tickets online.

Contact: valleybookseller.com

GAMMELGARDEN MUSEUM OPENING WEEKEND

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, May 4-Sunday, May7

Where: Gammelgarden Museum, 20080 Olinda Trail N., Scandia

Details: Free tours at 10:30 a.m., 1 & 2:30

p.m. Friday and Saturday; 1 & 2:30 p.m. Sunday. Artist and crafter's fair, artisan demos, 19th century games, and hands on activities for all ages.

Contact: gammelgardenmuseum.org

UNITED BY THE VINE

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, May 4

Where: Royal Golf Club, 11455 20th St. N., Lake Elmo

Details: Annual fundraiser for United Way of Washington County-East includes cocktails, dinner, raffles, online and live auction, and program.

Contact: uwwce.org

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION

When and Where: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 6 and June 3 at the Forest Lake Transit Center, 19987 Fitzgerald Trail

N.; 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 20 at Lily Lake Ice Arena, 1208 S. Greeley St., Stillwater

Details: Recycle and dispose of electronics and household hazardous waste. Confidential document shredding.

Contact: 651-430-6702 or co.washington. mn.us

INTRODUCTION TO MEDITATION

When: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, May 6

Where: Ascension Episcopal Church, 214 N. Third St., Stillwater

Details: Introductory class to discuss basic forms of meditation and short sessions. Call to reserve a spot; also available online.

Contact: 651-263-7760 or zenbridge.org

BIG RIG DAY FEATURING THE ROE FAMILY

SINGERS

When: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 6

Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake

Details: Kids can climb on vehicles at the Metro Transit parking lot behind the library while listening to the Roe Family singers. Free; no registration required.

Contact: washcolib.org

SPRING FLING CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW

When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 6

Where: Stillwater Area High School, 5701 Stillwater Blvd. N.

Details: Food, crafters and vendors, indoors and outside. Free admission. Contact: rsgdevelopment.com

BALANCED WELLNESS SERIES: LIVING WITH ARTHRITIS

When: 1-2 p.m.Wednesday, May 10

Where: Stillwater Public Library, 224 3rd St. N.

Details: Monthly educational series on the 2nd Wednesday of the month for adults ages 55+. Free and no registration required. Contact: stillwaterlibrary.org

FROG WALK AT OXBOW TRAILS

When: 7:30-9 Wednesday, May 10

Where: Oxbow Trails, 2398 St. Croix Trail S., Afton

Details: Evening stroll through a new hiking area while listening for spring calls of native frogs. Registration required. Contact: belwin.org/events

THE EMPTY NEST: RIGHTSIZE YOUR HOME

When: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thursday, May 11

Where: Hardwood Creek Library, 19955 Forest Rd. N., Forest Lake

Details: Empty nesters can learn how to rethink spaces in their home, downsize and plan for life transitions with a professional organizer. Registration required.

Contact: washcolib.org

FARE FOR ALL

When: 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, May 16

Where: Community Thread, 2300 Orleans St. W, Stillwater

Details: Public can purchase food at a discount through a curbside delivery model.

Contact: 763-450-3880 or fareforall.org

TAIKOARTS MIDWEST: JAPANESE DRUMMING WITH ENSO DAIKO

When: 6-7 p.m. Thursday, May 18

Where: Stillwater Public Library, 224 3rd St. N.

Details: Loud, energetic event incorporating music, dance, culture, and pure athleticism. Lecture on history of taiko drumming and interactive activities. Free; all ages.

Contact: stillwaterlibrary.org

BELWIN BISON FESTIVAL AND “RUN WITH THE BISON” FUN RUN

When: 9 a.m. run; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Festival

Saturday, May 20

Where: Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields, 15601 Hudson Rd. N., Lakeland

Details: Day of family fun includes 5K run, live music, eco-arts, and food trucks. Main event is arrival of the bison herd as they are released onto the prairie.

Contact: belwin.org

CANINE CARNIVAL

When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 20

Where: Wildlife Science Center, 22830 Sunrise Rd. NE, Stacy

Details: Learn about dogs and their wolf relatives, meet dog related service providers, visit with vendors , and enjoy dog demonstrations. Food and beverages. Dog on leashed welcome. See cost details online.

Contact: wildlifesciencecenter.org/ upcoming-events/canine-carnival

PLANT SALE AND GARDEN EXPO

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, May 20

Where: Washington County Fairgrounds, Highway 5 and Manning Ave.

Details: Shop for a variety of heirloom tomatoes, peppers, herbs, annuals, perennials, prairie plants and grasses and landscaping decor while supporting Washington County Master Gardeners. Visit with Master Gardeners and other experts on gardening topics.

Contact: washingtoncountymg.org

HOME COMPOSTING

When: 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 23

Where: River Market Co-op, 221 Main St. N., Stillwater

Details: Master Gardeners share gardening best-practices that promote healthy landscapes and foods. Registration online; free for co-op members. Contact: 651-439-0366 or rivermarket. coop/news/classes

STILLWATER HALF MARATHON

When: 8 a.m. Saturday, May 27

Where: Downtown Stillwater

Details: Half marathon 10K and 5K routes along the Gateway Trail and through downtown streets, and finish at Pioneer Park. Registration required. Contact: 651-504-4044 or runstillwater.com

19TH ANNUAL 10 MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, June 1-11

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

Details: See 10 never-before-seen plays from around the world performed by Lakeshore Players actors. Contact: 651-478-7427 or lakeshoreplayers. org

Retired teacher turns passion into second career

From loom weaving to bracelet tying, former Saint Paul Public Schools substitute teacher Katherine Buenger has made a second career out of her love for and talent in artistic crafts. Over the next three months, Marine Mills Folk School students will be able to take a variety of classes with the now-retired teacher.

Buenger majored in studio art at Macalester College, was a substitute teacher for 20 years and discovered Sámi bracelet making 10 years ago.

The Sámi are the traditionally Sámi-speaking people inhabiting the region of Sápmi, which today encompasses large northern parts of Norway, Sweden and Finland, and of the Kola Peninsula in Russia.

“I was hooked on the art form from the get-go,” Buenger said. “I knew I would start teaching it. As class after class kept selling out, my husband suggested we sell kits online. This has turned into a fun side business in our retirement.”

Katherine is well-versed in many artistic forms: cross-stitching, knitting and painting, to name a few. So far, she has taught jewelry classes at the folk school. This summer, she will bring back student favorites along with new offerings.

On May 7 and 20, Katherine will teach Weave a Scarf on a Rigid Heddle Loom. Students will learn to warp a loom, wind a shuttle, hemstitch, weave and more, and will complete a scarf. “It wasn’t until I turned

40 that I discovered weaving,” she said. “I feel that it is my primary craft along with working with tin thread.”

In June and July, Buenger will offer a number of jewelry classes — stone donut necklace and multistrand beaded bracelet on June 24, Sámi-inspired cuff bracelet on July 15, and tin thread and stone bead necklace on July 22.

Marine Mills has become more than just a place where she teaches, Katherine says.

“From the moment I walked into the folk school and was greeted by cheerful, helpful and excited people, I knew I wanted to come back and be part of this,” she says. “The beautiful drive up that day also helped. I continue to marvel

at how upbeat all the staff are even when I see how busy they are setting up rooms and putting things back after classes. It seems to be a very happy place.”

Kirsten Skoglund, Marine Mills program director, says, “Katherine has become an integral member of the Marine Mills Folk School community—as a teacher, mentor and learner. We are delighted to partner with her to bring such unique and rewarding experiences to our students. They love her breadth of knowledge, interest in a variety of cultures and traditions and her encouragement as they learn new skills.”

Marine Mills Folk School

PHOTOS BY MARINE MILLS FOLK SCHOOL

(Above) Artist Katherine Buenger is well-versed in many artistic forms and will teach jewelry and loom weaving classes at Marine Mills Folk School this summer. (Left) On July 15, students ages 12 and older are invited to make a Sami-inspired cuff bacelet with Buenger.

Matt's Basement brings nostalgia and vintage games to Stillwater

BY NOELLE OLSON EDITOR

Something unique is making its mark in Stillwater — a boba tea lounge with a touch of nostalgia.

Matt's Basement opened its doors on St. Patrick's Day this year. Owner Matt Watkins moved to Stillwater in April 2020 from La Jolla, California.

“Stillwater reminded me a lot of my hometown,” he said. “I wanted to create some diversity here, and I think we've done that here with vintage gaming, a NA (nonalcohol) bar, an artist display and gourmet boba tea and waffles.”

The lounge features vintage gaming consoles available to rent and play like NES (Nintendo Entertainment System), Nintendo 64, Atari and classic board games.

“Nostalgic gaming was really something extra I wanted to do here,” Watkins said. “I wanted to create the highest quality boba tea possible using authentic ingredients from Taiwan. We have traditional Taiwan tapioca pearls, and all of our boba teas are nondairy.”

“Strawberry Fields” is the top-selling boba tea at Matt's Basement. It features green tea, fresh diced strawberries and pearls. Watkins said kids who played Pokemon — or still do — will love the “Floaroma Town Tea.”

“I'd say it's one of the more unique teas here,” Watkins said. “It's a lavender-based jasmine tea with pink rose bursting pearls. We have a really amazing lavender syrup that we coat on the inside of the cup, and it's very floral.”

Other boba teas on the menu include:

• “Meet your Matcha” — Oolong tea, matcha and brown sugar boba.

• “Nothin' but Mango” — Mango green tea, natural mango milk tea flavor, fresh diced mango and bursting mango pearls.

• “My Thai Tea” — Ceylon tea, flavorful spices and brown sugar boba

• “Tiger Ube” — Oolong tea, natural ube flavor, tiger-striped ube cream and brown sugar boba

The gourmet boba waffles on the menu come with a variety of flavor combinations, including traditional boba, chocolate chip, strawberries and cream, matcha, maple bacon, fruit and make-a-custom waffle.

The “Banana Foster's Home for Imaginary Waffle” has banana waffle batter, sliced banana, whipped cream and caramel sauce.

The lounge has a variety of vintage and modern TVs. An outside patio overlooks the St. Croix River where people can see the historic Lift Bridge.

“We have NA craft beers on tap and we're going to bring in some NA wine,” Watkins said. “We do sell coffee, and have light and dark roast all day long.”

The Lotus Creamery in Hudson, Wisconsin, provides Matt's Basement with ice cream.

“I'm not a 'sweets' person, but that is literally some of the best ice cream I've ever had in my life,” Watkins said. “So I brought in their vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream. Again, there's that nostalgia of the traditional Neopolitan.”

Watkins is teaming up with the Lift Bridge Brewery to get kegs of black cherry soda and root beer.

“I really want to support local businesses, and I'm the manager of a liquor store, so I already had a good relationship with them,” Watkins said. “Having black cherry and root beer floats goes back to the 'nostalgia', because my grandfather loved black cherry floats.”

Every six to eight weeks, Matt's Basement will feature a gallery of local artists.

“Our very first artist is Linnea Marie Maas — Inside the Robot — and I absolutely love her,” Watkins said. “She is very unique, and I think it really fits our vibe.”

There's a room in the lounge called the “basement” that has a 120-inch projector TV that people can rent for birthday parties or gameplay, or just to hang out.

“This is a space that I can always come to,” Watkins said. “People can rent the room for $20 an hour. However, with a 24-hour advance reservation notice, you get the first hour free, and we've already had a few birthday parties here.”

The tea lounge is working on getting sports on the TVs for people who want to watch the Minnesota Vikings, Twins or other local sports teams.

“It's a unique tea lounge here in Stillwater,” Watkins said. “We specialize in boba tea and waffles, nostalgic gaming; (and) have recurring artists, a NA tap bar and memory foam beanbag chairs. There's really something here for everyone.”

Matt's Basement is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and is located at 413 Nelson Street East in Stillwater.

For more information, go to https://bit.ly/3mMOgW5.

Matt’s Basement is a boba tea lounge featuring nostalgic gaming, ice cream, coee, NA tap bar, waffles and a local tist display.

Matt’s Basement owner Matt Watkins is looking to bring diversity and nostalgia to his boba tea lounge in Stillwater.

Boba tea goes great with a maple bacon waffle with whipd cream and maple syrup.

The strawberries and cream waffle wi white chocolate chips, fresh sliced strawberries, whipped cream and strawberry syrup.

Banana Foster’s Home for Imaginary Waffles e made of banana waffleatter, sliced banana, whipped cream and caramel sauce.

Another option to resolving tickets

People who receive traffic or parking tickets in Washington County have a third option for getting them resolved: The Court Hearing Office. Washington County court hearing officers have the authority to work with most traffic offenses and parking tickets. They can resolve disputes and suspensions, negotiate payment plans and extensions, reduce the severity of the punishment, and even offer options to keep the ticket off your driving record.

Meetings with court hearing officers are done remotely, from a cell phone or computer. They’re also relatively short, alleviating the need for most people to take time off of work. To schedule an appointment to have the Washington County Court Hearing Office resolve your ticket, call 651-281-3219 or 800-657-3611 and press 2 at the prompt or send an email to 10thWashingtonHearingOffice@courts. state.mn.us.

May events sprout at Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center

audiences of all ages. She is a member of the Minnesota Herpetological Association and served for two years as the association’s president. She began the “Be a Turtle Hero” program to educate people about turtle conservation and to give people the tools to help reduce turtle road mortality. People can view a video at https://youtu.be/ MXwZd_UFLTc.

now until August, beekeeper Karen Voy will be stopping by the center to check on the hives and indoor apiary. This is a time when amateur beekeepers, and the bee-curious, can get some hands-on experience and ask questions.

For the month of May the Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center (SMINC) located at Lake Elmo’s Sunfish Lake Park, is rolling out a programming slate intended to help educate and raise awareness about turtles. Of the 356 species of turtles on the planet, 61% are considered endangered or are already extinct. For most people, it’s probably sea turtles they think of when they see a statistic like this but turtle populations here in Minnesota are also threatened like the Blanding’s turtle — a state symbol of Minnesota whose numbers have seen an alarming drop over the years.

The two events scheduled for May at the SMINC are intended to reach audiences of all ages. The center will host nature educator Misi Stine’s “Be a Turtle Hero” presentation, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, as part of its adult education series. The weekend before, Saturday May 13 and Sunday May 14, as part of the center’s family-friendly Interpretive drop-in series, naturalists and educators will be on hand to teach visitors all about turtles and the turtle species that can be found at Sunfish Lake Park.

Stine is a longtime wildlife educator who has given classes on a range of topic for

According to Stine, the extent of the problem is difficult to track since there isn’t really anyone collecting the numbers. But we’ve all seen what happens when turtles try to cross a busy roadway. Other factors in turtle population declines include habitat loss and human activity. Seemingly innocent activities like turtle races and collecting turtles for pets can have a real impact.

“Turtles are an ancient group of animals that have been around for over 200 million years old,” Stine said. “And it is up to us to see that those species are allowed to survive.”

“Be a Turtle Hero,” with Misi Stine, will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17, at the SMINC at Sunfish Lake Park in Lake Elmo. Her presentation will include artifacts and a live turtle and pre-registration is required. For more information, or to pre-register, visit https://sminc-lake-elmo. org/adult-education-presentation-series/ . Interpretive drop-in events typically happen twice monthly and are free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, and noon to 2 p.m. on Sundays. For the full schedule people can check the SMINC’s website at https://sminc-lake-elmo.org/event-descriptions/.

May will also see a continuation of the beekeeping programming that began in April. On Monday evenings at 6 p.m. from

2023 Summer Camp Directory

The Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center was founded by husband and wife, Tony Manzara and Connie Kirk, and named for Tony’s first wife Sally, who passed away in 2015, and who first had the idea to build the center when she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Located in Lake Elmo, the SMINC is open seven days a week, regularly runs educational nature programming and hosts a series of day camps in the summer.

Sally Manzara Interpretive Nature Center

A painted turtle.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

A baby snapping turtle.

County board revises ARPA expenditures

The Washington County Board of Commissioners has revised how the county will spend its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The county board has elected to direct the money to needed housing support services.

The most recent revisions include a decrease to the county emergency/transitional housing capital project from $8 million to $7 million, which will allow the money to fund an increase in two other projects. The housing outreach team supervision project will increase by $150,000 to extend the term of the current staff to the end of 2024. The transitional/emergency housing project will increase by $850,000 due to the continued need for temporary hotel sheltering, until a permanent option is developed. The increase will also fund a housing manager to prioritize and focus on the emergency/transitional ARPA housing projects. This position will allow the county to streamline housing and homeless services and increase the coordination across service providers.

County will collect household hazardous waste, electronics

Washington County will conduct a one-day household hazardous waste

and electronics collection from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 6, in Forest Lake. The collection will be at the Forest Lake Transit Center, 19987 Fitzgerald Trail N., Forest Lake. One-day collections bring the services offered at the Washington County Environmental Center closer to residents, making it more convenient and practical for them to recycle and dispose their electronics and household hazardous waste. Confidential document shredding will be available at the event.

Middle St. Croix Valley Regional Trail will link 11 river towns

Washington County is leading a master plan to determine the future route of the Middle St. Croix Valley Regional Trail. The future trail will be a 14-mile, north-south multiuse trail in eastern Washington County. The proposed corridor extends north to the St. Croix boom site and south to County Road 18 in downtown Afton. Once fully developed, the trail will link 11 river towns and connect trail users to regional destinations and resources. See map of the propossed trail on the right. For more information, go to https://www. co.washington.mn.us/MSCVRegionalTrail.

@y ahoo.com w/ contact information.

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EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not kn owingly accept any ad vertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers ar e hereby informed that all dw ellings advertised in this newsp ap er are available on an equal oppor tunity basis To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free: 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free number for hearing impaired is 1-800-927-92 75

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PRESS PUBLICATIONS IS SEEKING A

Staff Writer

Press Publications in White Bear Lake is seeking a staff writer to join its award-winning team. As a staff writer-reporter you will be responsible for coordinating editorial content and layout for our newspapers, website and social media pages. In addition to writing stories, the job will require attending meetings, taking photographs, assisting with the layout process, coordinating, writing occasional editorial columns and maintaining a positive relationship with the community at large. We are looking for a candidate who is an efficient writer, passionate about local community news and great at time managment. Candidates should have a degree in journalism (or a related field) and have relevant experience. To apply, please send resume, cover letter and three writing samples to quadnews@presspubs.com.

Part-time Public Works Employee

The City of Lexington is accepting applications for a part-time public works employee to assist the public works department in regular maintenance and repair work associated with the city’s parks, buildings, streets, and utilities. The position is 20-30 hours per week – flexible hours. A high school diploma and a valid driver's license with a clean driving record is essential.

Applications available

Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4:30 pm, at Lexington City Hall, 9180 Lexington Ave, Lexington, MN 55014 or online at http://www.ci.lexington.mn.us/.

Salary Range: $17.05-$18.76/hour.

For more information call 763-784-2792. Position is open until filled.

PT Admin Position in WBL Circulation Dept. 15-20 hrs/week. Call Lisa 651-407-1205

www.presspubs.com

NOW HIRING! Admin Assistant 32-35 hrs/week Able to multi-task and handle variety of jobs, including correspondence. Call 651-271-5985 to set up interview;immediate or send resume to: bill@ whitebearcountryinn.com

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Years and age can be listed followed by the names of family members, life accomplishments, places traveled, jobs held, or descriptions of what was important to the person the obituary is about.

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A generous community works to put Hopkins schoolhouse back together again

BY JACKIE BUSSJAEGER REGIONAL STAFF WRITER

If it takes a village to raise a child, it might take a village to restore a schoolhouse as well.

Luckily, the people of Hugo are up to the task as they set their sights on transforming the Hopkins Schoolhouse from dilapidated eyesore to treasured community space.

It will be a long road, but Hugo citizens are up for the challenge. Liz Cinqueonce is one of the Hugo residents working to establish a new nonprofit to manage the restoration of the property into what will eventually become the Hopkins Schoolhouse and Heritage Center. The timeline for the restoration is estimated at 6-8 years, hopefully pairing the 2028 centennial celebration of the building with its grand opening.

The committee envisions five major uses for the site: historical displays, education displays, community engagement and leadership programs, a meeting space and a significant stop along the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail.

But it takes more than a strong interest in history and community to get a big project like this one done. Doug Amundson and his son DJ Amundson are the owners of Precise Exteriors, a roofing and siding business that provided some much-needed repairs at Cinqueonce’s home. She asked whether the pair would have an interest in restoring the schoolhouse’s roof, and the answer was a resounding yes.

“It’s history, that’s why I want to get involved,” Amundson said. “This is my community. It’s very important to get that done, and the city agreed and allowed them to take the next steps. It shouldn’t be demolished. Originally the city was thinking it would take a million and a half dollars to get this done; I kind of laughed because I know what things cost.”

Amundson and his team got to work last fall to make the roof temporarily watertight using heavy-duty tarps. Their next project, once the winter weather has relented, will be to fully redo the roof, using materials that match the ones already existing on the schoolhouse as closely as possible. What’s more, they did the project at no cost other than materials, and have offered to do the same for the permanent roofing.

The schoolhouse also has a brick chimney that has seen better days—at some point, it was struck by lightning, scattering bricks everywhere. Amundson reached out to Rusty Pastorius, owner of Sealant Technicians, who would have the know-how to fix up the chimney. Pastorius and his son Zach, both long-

COMMUNITY BRIEF

Master Gardeners host Plant Sale and Garden Expo

Upcoming Games

May 2-7 vs. Nashville Sounds

May 9- vs. Indianapolis Indians

May 23 – 28 vs. Omaha Storm Chasers

Washington County Master Gardeners present their annual Plant Sale and Garden Expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 20, in Building A at the Washington County Fairgrounds, Highway 5 and Manning Avenue in Stillwater. This event is hosted by volunteers with the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program in Washington County. Bring a wagon or cart and shop from a wide variety of heirloom tomatoes, peppers and herbs along with annuals, perennials, prairie plants, grasses and shade plants. All plants are either nursery-grown or grown by volunteers from seed in soilless potting mix (with no insecticides) to avoid the possible spread of invasive jumping worms.

The Garden Expo features specially trained tree care advisers, home insect control specialists and

CHURCH BRIEF

People’s 2nd annual May festival comes to Bayport

After a very successful first year, People’s Congregational Church is planning the second annual May Fest on Saturday, May 20, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The festival is a community event supporting local artisans and musicians. It is held outdoors at People’s Park and Barkers Alps Park in Bayport. Approximately 25+ artisans and vendors and four local musicians/bands will play — the Liechtenstein Nein, Ray Gilman, Trandy Blue and Buster Phelan.

Highlights of the 2023 May Fest are as follows:

• Artisan sale — artists, crafters, vendors (including a renowned local knife sharpener!) and nonprofit exhibitors. Be sure to look for our young artists.

• Plant sale — annual flowers, perennials, houseplants and strawberry plants.

• Hands-on activities for all ages — games and fun for children and parents (including a Maypole).

• 50/50 raffle

time residents of Hugo, have also offered their services free of labor charges.

Pastorius has previously worked for the city of Hugo, and remembers being called to board up the schoolhouse at times when mischievous kids would break in.

“It’s a cool old place, and I thought it would be really neat if they saved it,” he said. “It’s good to see somebody’s interested in preserving some of Hugo. All the old icon buildings I grew up with have disappeared off the map. There’s nothing left downtown anymore. It’s good to see something staying that we can preserve.”

Cinqueonce has also made connections with Northern Bedrock Group, an organization that trains youth in historic restoration and preservation. This organization will be doing an onsite assessment to choose a feature of the schoolhouse suitable for them to work on in the near future.

“There’s a really cool herringbone soffit underneath the roof, and it’s a unique pattern and that’s not work that Rusty or Doug does,” Cinqueonce said. “One of the roadblocks now is the snow. We need to get up there and continue working on the assessments for the next steps.”

At the same time, the group will be working on a fundraising effort, trying to increase awareness of the restoration and gather community support in whatever ways they can. There will be an outdoor community cleanup day coming up this spring, once the weather is a little nicer.

The project is meaningful to many in the community who want to see Hugo’s history preserved and protected.

“I think just in general in Hugo we don’t really have very much like history and heritage of the area,” Cinqueonce said. “Every community should have something reflects the past. It’s important and what we do today really does matter down the line. As soon as we can get actual improvements done at the site, it’ll make it more real for the community.”

She also expressed gratitude for the generous attitude of the community, and the resourcefulness of its people. “It's a snowball,” she said. “The only reason we connected with Rusty is because Doug knew Rusty. Everybody knows somebody. I know the figures that came out of the assessment were really large, but if we take a ‘stone soup’ approach to it, we can do it for a lot less than projected because of the generosity of businesses and community members.”

Learn more about the historic schoolhouse at https:// hopkinsschoolhouse.org.

others to answer questions. The public is encouraged to bring in plant or insect photos or samples along with their gardening questions to the “ask a Master Gardener” diagnostic clinic.

The Garden Market features garden and nature-related crafts including trellises, bird feeders, duck houses, garden decor, tools and other implements.

Sale proceeds will be used to support Master Gardener educational activities and gardens in Washington County. Participants in the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Program are specially trained volunteers who are interested in horticulture and community service. Their mission is to educate the public with research-based information on the best practices in consumer horticulture and environmental stewardship. For more information, visit www.washingtoncountymg.org.

• Plinko game for children and adults

• Bake sale

• Food trucks and Lions Club booth

• New this year is a catered dinner for families from 4 to 6 p.m. — eat-in or take-out.

If you sleep better, you can certainly live better. It’s pretty clear,” says Raymonde Jean, MD, director of sleep medicine and associate director of critical care at St. Luke’sRoosevelt Hospital Center in New York City.

Improve Your Memory

If you’re trying to learn something new, you’ll perform better after sleeping. During sleep, you can strengthen memories or “practice” skills learned while you were awake (it’s a process called consolidation).

Live Longer

Too much or too little sleep can be associated with a shorter lifespan. This is because of sleep’s relationship to the rest of the body’s processes. According to the Sleep Foundation, oversleeping (sleeping longer than 9 hours within 24 hours) can result in chronic diseases or conditions like heart disease, obesity or diabetes. Some of those conditions can lead to early death, per the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP). Those who slept between seven to eight and a half hours—but not less than seven hours or more than nine hours—could expect to have one to three more years of longer, healthier lives

Decrease Inflammation

Inflammation is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis and premature aging. People who get less sleep—six or fewer hours a night—have higher blood levels of inflammatory proteins than those who get more. In a September 2020 study published in Frontiers in Neurology, researchers noted that C-reactive protein (CRP), which increases whenever inflammation is present in the body, is linked to worse sleep. People who have sleep apnea or insomnia can have an improvement in blood pressure and inflammation with treatment of the sleep disorders.

Maintain a Healthier Weight

According to David Rapoport, MD, founder and president of the Foundation for Research in Sleep Disorders, “Sleep and metabolism are controlled by the same sectors of the brain. When you’re sleepy, certain hormones go up in your blood, and those same hormones drive appetite.” Researchers of an International Journal of Obesity study published in March 2021 found that the better the participants slept, the more weight and fat they lost.

Improve School Performance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that grade-age students could have poorer academic

performance when they don’t get the sleep they need. For college students, sleeping for a sufficient amount of time, can improve GPA, while insufficient sleep could lead to, for example, a lower speed of cognitive processing—according to a January 2022 review published in Humanities and Social Sciences Communications.

A lack of sleep can result in ADHDlike symptoms in kids, Dr. Rapaport said. The Sleep Foundation noted that children could switch from grumpiness to hyperactivity when they haven’t had enough sleep as well. Better sleep can improve their focus. It’s important they get the recommended amount of sleep for their age (which could range from eight to 13 hours), as noted in a June 2016 Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine article.

Better sleep can also

• Boost creativity;

• Improve athletes’ physical performance;

• Lower stress;

• Reduce accidents; and

• Improve mood.

Ultimately, if you find that you’re having major problems with sleep, you’ll want to talk to your healthcare provider for advice and treatment options based on your situation.

This information was found on www. health.com.

Local supporter of performing arts extends reach

The Manitou Fund, a private foundation based in White Bear Lake, has executed a purchase agreement for the Zephyr Theatre property, located at 601 Main Street North, Stillwater.

The move was intended to give the Zephyr Theatre an opportunity to enter into a lease agreement while it reorganizes educational and performance programming and plans for the future. The sale price was not disclosed.

“Manitou Fund is pleased to offer support to an essential and impactful

community-driven arts collaborative. This supportive effort enables the arts organization to envision and engineer a future for community-based arts education and programs,” said Oliver Din, Manitou Fund president and chief executive officer.

The support comes at a critical time for the Zephyr Theatre, which has experienced significant financial and organizational difficulties in recent months. These difficulties have led to the resignation of the executive director, staff

furloughs, changes in leadership on the board of trustees, and cancellation of programs and productions.

The nonprofit Zephyr Theatre Company purchased the former train depot in 2018. The Manitou Fund will include an option in the lease agreement for the Zephyr Theatre to repurchase the property at a future date. The Manitou Fund is also behind the McNeely Music Center, a state-of-the-art facility that will offer lessons, recording capabilities and performance space that is current-

We’re Forest Lake’s original grooming shop, operating since 1989. Petstyles is celebrating 25 years of ownership by Kari Halvorson. Your pets are like family to us. We remain 100% committed to your pet from start to finish. It’s all we do and we make your pet look and feel its best! Always have and always will! Be sure to check out our photos of happy clients on Instagram/Facebook @petstylesgrooming

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ly under construction at the corner of Highway 61 and Eighth Street in White Bear Lake's “arts district.”

“The Zephyr Theatre is beyond thrilled for Manitou Fund’s generous support to give us a way forward,” says Nicole Bartelt, Zephyr Theatre board chair. “We will sharpen our focus on long-term goals, and we look forward to sharing more good news as this relationship develops and grows.”

Amy Johnson

We are proud that for the sixth year

awarded “Best

WOW One Day Painting

Whether you have a well-loved family home that needs an update or a new house that you want to make your own, your painting project is in capable hands with WOW 1 DAY PAINTING. You can go to work, head out shopping locally or enjoy the areas many lakes while leaving the hard work to this team of painters.

painting solutions. Their amazing local painters arrive as scheduled, cover and protect your furniture and floors and expertly finish the work as instructed so you can focus on other things. Blink and you’ll miss them! Call Marc Sieber today at 651-245-9463 and get that project DONE!

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