The Lowdown

Hickory Health

Richard Ottomeyer, D.C. is the founder of Hickory Health Clinic in Forest Lake. As a chiropractic orthopedist and licensed acupuncturist, he has been treating pain-related conditions since 1981. He is passionate about developing integrated care models that promote optimal patient-centered outcomes for people experiencing the spectrum of pain; from acute to chronic.  With nearly 40 years of clinical experience, Dr. Ottomeyer has developed an extensive network of provider specialists and has pioneered a transition from individual specialty care into trans disciplinary teambased care. Call them today at 651-447-8883.

In the March edition of the Lowdown, the article titled “Stillwater Middle School 6th graders advance in national competition” contained an error. It should have said “Temali-Smith.” We apologize for the error.

The Stillwater River Boats offer a variety of features that will float your boat this summer. A trip down the scenic St. Croix River is

Gregory Contracting

Gregory Contracting is a full-service residential contractor, serving Forest Lake, Chisago Lakes and the surrounding area for over 20 years. Residential remodeling and contracting has been their family business for over four generations. Now, Gregory Contracting offers family-owned and operated expertise and service to our community. Everyone at Gregory Contracting strives to earn lasting relationships with their customers by gaining trust through professional performance. Give them a call at 651213-0668.

SHANNON GRANHOLM

Managing Editor | quadnews@presspubs.com I am not a fan of Star Wars, but Ewoks are kind of cute.

MADELINE DOLBY

Staff Writer | lowdownnews@presspubs.com

C-3PO or Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Results. Relationships. Resources.

LAURIE ERICSON

Designer | art@presspubs.com Yoda my favorite is.

PAUL DOLS

Photojournalist/Website Editor | photos@presspubs.com Yoda, both baby and grownup versions.

TOMMY CHANDLER

Multimedia Consultant |

Jar-Jar Binks or Han Solo.

Lily Lake delisted from impaired waters list

BY MADELINE DOLBY STAFF WRITER

STILLWATER—Lily 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.

Over the years, growth brought urban development and parking lots that sent untreated runoff into the lake. This caused water clarity to decrease to about 4 feet. Thick mats of weeds prevented boating.

The picturesque 41-acre lake is located in the heart of Stillwater, bordered by a small city park with a fishing pier, playground, tennis courts and a pickleball court.

A series of events caused community members to question the future of Lily Lake after two children had passed away from a parasitic amoeba. Nine-year-old Jack Ariola Erenberg passed away in 2012, only two years after Anne Bahneman died from contracting a similar amoeba after swimming in the lake. This caused the city to shut down the lake to swimmers but remain open to boaters and fishermen.

The amoeba that caused the death of the two children is present in all water bodies and more prevalent in degraded water quality. Improvements made to the lake should reduce the likelihood of future encounters, but nothing can completely eliminate the risk.

According to the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR), Lily Lake was added to the list of impaired waters in 2002.

“It was impaired for nutrients or impaired for aquatic recreation because of nutrients,” said Matthew Downing, the Middle St. Croix Water Management Organization (MSCWMO) administrator. “There was too much stormwater runoff containing primarily phosphorus entering the lake.”

Excess phosphorus can lead to degraded water quality, primarily in the form of clarity and algae growth.

As required by the federal Clean Water Act, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) assesses all state waters and creates a list of impaired waters every two years. The list includes waters that fail to meet water quality standards and uphold that water body’s designated use. The list is used to set pollutant-reduction goals needed to restore impaired waters, called the total maximum daily load (TMDL).

But the lake’s luck has changed due to an effort that has taken about 15 to 20 years, which included MSCWMO, a host of partners and periodic grant monies from the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources’ (BWSR) Clean Water Fund.

“There’s been five clean water grants awarded for that watershed over the last 25 years,” said Downing. Those grants allowed for multiple projects to occur to help improve the water quality.

The BWSR Clean Water Fund was established by Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment that Minnesotans approved in 2008 with the purpose of protecting, enhancing and restoring water quality in lakes, rivers and streams and to protect groundwater and drinking water from degradation.

The MSCWMO and the city of Stillwater began to work on water quality improvements six years after the lake was placed on the state’s impaired waters list.

“A lot of community engagement, building rain gardens in people’s front yards to intercept stormwater runoff before it goes into the sewer, behavior change over that time (and) shoreline restorations occurred,” Downing said. Development controls implemented throughout the years have contributed to the lake’s improved water quality.

A filtration basin was installed in the fall of 2021. An alum treatment was then performed on the lake the following spring. The treatment targeted internal phosphorus loading. In 2022, clarity averaged about 16.5 feet, compared with just over 6.5 feet in 2021.

At one point in time, Lily Lake was so clear that it supplied St. Paul restaurants with ice harvested in blocks and stored nearby.

Amy Carolyn, a previous MSCWMO administrator, started the process to get Lily Lake removed from the state’s impaired waters list, Downing noted.

Lily Lake was recommended for delisting from the Minnesota’s impaired waters list in 2022. It was officially removed in 2023 after approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

“It really did take 25 years of the staff of the MSCWMO being engaged with it and passing that torch along,” Downing added. “The city of Stillwater was very, very instrumental. Without the city, it wouldn’t have happened.” The Lily Lake Association also played a role in the lake’s restoration.

Three of the four lakes in the Stillwater area are no longer on the impaired waters list: Lake McKusick was delisted in 2012, and Lily Lake and South Twin Lake were both removed in 2023.

For more information on Lily Lake and the MSCWMO, visit www.mscwmo.org.

Madeline Dolby is a Staff Writer at Press Publications. She can be reached at 651-407-1226 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com.

A local town comes to life in novel

BY MADELINE DOLBY STAFF WRITER

BAYPORT—In his debut novel, “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” L.C. Simon hopes to captivate readers by bringing attention to child abuse victims.

“Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Simon’s first fictional novel, is a captivating story spotlighting real child abuse cases confronted by law enforcement and child protection workers.

Simon, who resides in Bayport, began his career in law enforcement in the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in the Stillwater Historic Courthouse. He was sworn in by Sheriff Ed Westphal. Throughout Simon’s career, he was assigned duties as patrol officer, dispatcher, shift commander, detective sergeant and supervisor of the Water Recovery Unit and the Office of Conduct and Standards.

“My protracted assignment for 17 years was exclusively with child abuse investigations,” said Simon.

“I was a contract instructor for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for 10 years, teaching law enforcement statewide.”

He retired from the sheriff’s office at the current location of the Law Enforcement Center in Stillwater, under Sheriff Jim Frank.

His novel “will give readers

a better understanding when looking straight into the eyes of child abuse victims and focusing on the interrogations of the people responsible,” Simon said. “I have personally interviewed more than 700 children and more than 500 offenders.”

The reader will follow Detective Jack Janssen in his personal and professional life as he wears a badge and carries a gun. After he decides to retire early, Janssen struggles with his subconscious as he tries to figure out where he will go in life. Suddenly, he finds himself drawn back into his old life in law enforcement and begins to get a glimpse of what the rest of his life has in store for him.

The storyline takes place in the St. Croix Valley area. Simon highlighted that the cities, government building and rivers will come to life in this informative and exciting novel.

“I have never lost my dedication to the victimization of children and recently decided to spend time writing novels that draw on my experience while highlighting the complexity of child abuse in our society,” he concluded.

Simon’s debut novel is available to purchase at Valley Booksellers in Stillwater, online and at other bookstores. His second novel, “Sound of Silence,” will be available in August.

Madeline Dolby is a Staff Writer at Press Publications. She can be reached at 651407-1226 or lowdownnews@ presspubs.com.

L.C. Simon worked for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for almost three decades.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is available to purchase at Valley Booksellers in Stillwater.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

A photo of the lake at sunset.

OUT & ABOUT

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT AFTON HOUSE

When: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday, May 12

Where: Afton House Inn, 3291 St. Croix Trail S., Afton

Details: Celebrate Mother’s Day at the historic Afton House Inn with you friends and family. A buffet will be available. Contact: 651-436-8883

ONGOING EVENTS

WELLNESS MONDAY’S

When: 6- 8 p.m. Every Monday

Where: Local Luxury Medspa, Hotel Crosby, 232 Main St., N., Stillwater

Details: Yoga, wine, hot tub and a certificate for a massage or facial. Grab some friends or a significant other and sign up for some relaxation Contact: 651-323-2555

TREAT YOURSELF TUESDAYS

When: 5-8 p.m. 2nd Tuesday of every month

Where: Sodie’s Cigar & Pipe, 5946 N. Good Ave., 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

CURRENT EVENTS

WHAT’S THAT PLANT?

When: Wednesday, May 1- Tuesday, May 7

Where: Browns Creek Trail, 8312 Neal Ave. N., Stillwater Details: Exploration of the botanical wonders along the Brown’s Creek Trail. Officers an opportunity for individuals to immerse themselves in the natural world while discovering the array to plants on the trail. Contact: www. sustainablestillwatermn.org/ plant-event

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY

When: 5-7:30 p.m. Friday, May 3

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center, 1520 Mathomedi Ave. Details: Free music, yard games, outdoor activities and food for purchase from food trucks. Contact: mathomedi.ce.eleyo.com

SPRING MIGRATION BIRD HIKE

When: 7-8:30 a.m. Saturday, May 4

Where: Browns Creek Park, 8312 Neal Ave. N., Stillwater Details: Led by seasoned bird George Vania, this event invites nature enthusiasts of all levels to explore the diverse habitats around the pong, through wooded areas and open fields in search of migratory birds. Only 12 spots available. Contact: allison@sustainable stillwatermn.org

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE

COLLECTION

When: 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, May 4

Where: Forest Lake Transit Center, 19987 Fitzgerald Trail N. Details: One-day event for collection of household hazardous waste and electronics. Document shredding also available. Contact: co.washington.mn.us/1942/ One-Day-Collection-Events

STILLWATER RAIN GARDEN CLEAN-UP

When: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, May 4

Where: Washington Square Park, 915 Abbott St. W., Stillwater

Details: Hosted by the Washington Conversation District and Sustainable

Waiting Child

Stillwater MN. This event is a cleanup but gives residents the opportunity to connect with their neighbors. Contact: info@sustainable stillwatermn.org

FOREST BATHING

When: 9 – 11 a.m. Sunday, May 5

Where: Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, 9653 Keats Ave. S.

Details: Experience an ancient wellness practice. Experience an immersive and meditative Japanese forest bathing experience. See firsthand how nature’s fractals, sounds and sensations reduce your stress and anxiety. Registration required. Space is limited.

Contact: 651-430-8226

STILLWATER CHOIR CONCERT

When: 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 7

Where: Stillwater High School Auditorium, 5701 Stillwater Blvd., Oak Park Heights

Details: The Stillwater Choir preforms.

DOG DAY IN THE RAVINE

When: 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11

Where: Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, 9653 Keats Ave. S.

Details: Bring your furry friends and enjoy a tail-wagging extravaganza filled with dog-themed activities and adventures.

Contact: 651-430-8226

BAYPORT BAR CRAWL

When: 12-4 p.m. Saturday, May 11

Where: Bayport, MN

Details: A fun filled day traveling around Bayport’s best restaurants and bars. Each local participating bar and restaurant will be providing specials for all Bar Crawl participants. Contact: bcal55003@gmail.com

YOUTH SAFETY BIKE RODEO

When: 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Saturday, May 11

Where: St. Croix Valley Rec. Center, 1675 Market Dr., Stillwater

Details: The youth bike safety rodeo is a fun and free event to guide your child through a skills course that is designed to challenge and educate them while building better bicycling riding habits and abilities. Hosted by the Stillwater Police Department. Contact: 651-351-4930 or bjunker@ stillwatermn.gov

ADULT HORSEMANSHIP CLINIC

When: 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Sunday, May 12

Where: Spark Equestrian Academy, 13850 30th S. N., Stillwater

Details: Perfect for beginning and returning riders, as well as those who have always wanted to learn more about horses. Learn how to catch and halte a horse in the pasture, understand herd dynamics and body language. This is a non-riding class. Contact: app.iclasspro.com/portal/ spark/dashboard

BUSINESS BRIEF

Lake Elmo tavern celebrates its 1-year anniversary

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION

When: 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, May 18

Where: Lily Lake Ice Arena, 1208 S. Greeley St., Stillwater

Details: One-day event for collection of household hazardous waste and electronics. Document shredding also available.

Contact: co.washington.mn.us/1942/ One-Day-Collection-Events

WASHINGTON COUNTY MASTER GARDENER’S PLANT SALE AND EXPO

When: Saturday, May 18

Where: Washington County Fairgrounds, 12300 40th St. N., Lake Elmo

Details: Hundreds of varieties of plants for sale, diagnostic clinic, educational displays, garden market an ask-agardener.

Contact: washingtoncountymg.org

LONG LAKE BIRD HABITAT PLANTING PARTY

When: 9 a.m.- noon, Saturday May 18

Where: Croixwood Open Square, Stillwater Details: Family-friendly event dedicated to restoring and enhancing the bird habitat at Long Lake. Contact: allison @sustainablestillwatermn.org

STILLWATER HALF MARATHON

When: 7 a.m. Saturday, May 25

Where: Downtown Stillwater

Details: This unique half marathon course takes participants along the Gateway Trail, ends at Pioneer Park. There are three courses: 5k, 10k and a half. Register online.

Contact: www.runstillwater.com/ stillwater-half-marathon/

SPLITROCKS CLASSIC CAR SHOW

When: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday, May 25

Where: Splitrocks Entertainment Center, 5062 72nd St., Wyoming Details: Splitrocks first ever classic car show. Attendance is free. Admission fee for all entries. Contact: 651-462-6000 or benita@ splitrocksmn.com.

STILLWATER VETERAN’S MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY

When: 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Monday, May 27

Where: Vets Memorial Parking Lot, 138 Pine St. W., Stillwater Details: Honor the St. Croix causalities of war. Contact: 651-439-4350

ST. CROIX CUP

When: Friday, May 31

Where: Lucy Winston Bell Athletic Fields, 15601 Hudson Rd., Lakeland Details: The 20th Annual St. Croix Cup Soccer Tournament. Contact: admin@stcroixsoccer.org

The Lakewood Tavern, located in Lake Elmo, has been open to the public for one year.

Christopher Deuth, along with his business partners Lou Schafer and Tom Williams, opened Lakeside Tavern in March 2023, with years of experience between them and a clear vision of what they were creating: a neighborhood tavern with incredible food, plenty of televisions to capture all the sports, a great beer list, great specials and exceptional customer service coming from a team that is happy and proud to work there. One year under their belt and “there is plenty of room to grow,” says Deuth. Lakewood Tavern has a full scratch menu, with breakfast on Saturday and Sunday. It is located at 9939 Hudson Blvd. N., Lake Elmo. For more information, call 651-390-6760 or chris@lakewoodtavern.com.

VINTAGE VIEWFINDER

A photo dated

lake is deep and was known at the time for its clear, cool water. After years of a decline in water quality, 20 years of local efforts to bring the lake back from impaired status are proving to be successful.

Hello, and pleased to meet you

One step closer to my master’s, a first-year recap

Alittle bit over a year ago I made the, somewhat impulsive, decision to attend graduate school. It was something I had thought about over the course of my junior and senior year of my undergraduate program, but I never really committed to it. It wasn’t until January of my senior year that I got serious about making the choice to continue my education.

Madeline’s Mail

I held off meeting with the director of graduate studies till February. After that meeting, I began to freak out a bit because I was two or three months behind other applicants. I went into panic mode. All the professors I needed a letter of recommendation from were on sabbatical for that year, which meant contacting them was nearly impossible. But thankfully, they checked their email the week I reached out to them. One of my professors even helped me write my admissions statement.

Ultimately, I got accepted into the University of St. Thomas’s Creative Writing and Publishing program three weeks after I applied. When I received the acceptance email from the director, I was a bit horrified and excited. Was I ready to balance a fulltime job and being a full-time graduate student?

MMy name is Erik Suchy and I am the new staff writer at the one and only Press Publications in downtown White Bear Lake! Like many current and past writers, I take it upon myself to conform to a high set of journalism standards, ensuring I am producing the best possible content to publish each weekly issue.

I was born and raised in (so you may have guessed!)

White Bear Lake, graduating from high school here in 2014 before taking off to Century College that same year to complete my generals. Many ambitions of future career dreams floated through my head while there, split between my then-steady objective of obtaining my associate’s degree. Unfortunately, being the unfocused youngster I was then, meant that most, if not all, were forgotten quickly, leaving me without any other specific endeavor for the time being.   “For the time being,” of course, being the key phrase. After graduating from Century in 2018, I transferred to Metropolitan State University, where many new interests began to take shape. I initially applied to the school’s creative writing program, treating the subject of writing as a passing thought.

“Easy, peasy, mac-and-cheesy,” I frequently told myself throughout my first two semesters. “All I have to do is just write a bunch of different stories to present to my professors without worrying about taking any fancy tests or pop quizzes. It doesn’t even matter if any of what I write is good, as long as I get it in on time, and POOF! A+’s across the board, here I come!”

But I was wrong. Very, VERY wrong with these beliefs for all the right reasons.

Once I began my second year, writing was gradually beginning to form as a recreational interest I started to pursue outside of the classroom. When I took it upon myself to write for fun with a laptop on one side of my desk and a cup of green tea on the other, I started small and ... poorly. My short stories made no sense content and grammarwise. Poetry was worse; I crafted sentences and lines that sounded beautifully nonsensical at best and pretentiously half-baked at worst. Worst of all, I never realized that to become a better writer, I had to become a better READER, despite the countless times past professors had lobbied that advice my way.

So, I read. I studied. I took notes. Then, the improvements began to take hold and reflected themselves better and better in the stories I wrote. Soon, I began to have my work published in various college magazines, both in print and online. I felt accomplished. Someone was noticing me and my efforts, and

I realized this was the first step in knowing my writing had the potential to take me places.

With a year and a half left of college, I landed a part-time job writing opinion pieces on current social and political issues for my college newspaper. After graduation, I was stuck trying to find full-time writing jobs that didn’t require much experience. Most of them required significantly more achievements over a more extended period than what I had achieved during my tenure at the college paper.

After trying various unrelated jobs, ranging from early childhood development to briefly going back to retail, a freelance opportunity opened for me in November, writing news stories for Press Publications. I did this up through early February when the company offered me to join their team fulltime, which I accepted and have been here since!

Besides writing, my hobbies include photography, hiking and the occasional day of fishing on whatever lake I can cast my line and lure into on a good, sunny day.

I look forward to working with such an incredible team of writers who have just as big a passion for covering local news as I do!

If you have any ideas for stories that you would like me to report on, please get in touch with me by phone or email.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer for Press Publciations. He can be reached at 651-407-1229 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

The first semester of graduate school was an adjustment. I was not used to having to juggle so many things at once. I had to try to balance work, school, a social life and paying off my student loans. During my undergrad, I was used to having minimal homework and free weekends to hang out with my friends. That first semester of graduate school was a reality check for me.

It took me about a good two months to get into a routine of going to work, going to class and finding time to do the things I enjoy. Once I found my routine it was easy to enjoy life again. I made friends in my classes, settled into my new job and managed to stay in contact with all my college friends.

My second semester was the hardest to adjust to. After spending half of December and all of January off, I was once again wondering why I decided to go back to school. What if I didn’t get a job in publishing? What if I had to move to London, or New York or Los Angeles? I do not have the finances to move to any of those places. But I ignored all those ‘what ifs’ and went into second semester with the same mindset I did in September—I am going to get my master’s and do great things.

My second semester went significantly better. I knew the type of coursework to expect and how to balance my homework load. The classes I took were things I was interested in and liked talking about. A few of my friends from the previous semester were in my classes again, which made it more enjoyable.

After completing my first year of graduate school, I have learned a lot about myself. I learned that I cannot wait to do my homework assignments till the very last minute, it is okay to ask questions and for help and it is okay to take a break.

I am excited to begin my second year of graduate school, but I am very thankful that I do not have to step back on campus for a good three months.

Madeline Dolby is a staff writer at Press Publications. She can be reached at 651-407-1226 or lowdownnews@ presspubs.com

•

• Deadline is 5 p.m., Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

• To submit a letter, e-mail it to lowdownnews@presspubs.com, fax it to 651-429-1242 or mail or deliver it to Press Publications, 4779 Bloom Ave., White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

Madeline Dolby

from the 1960’s shows a crowd enjoying a day at Lily Lake which, at the time, featured a floating raft with a high dive. Many Stillwater residents have fond memories of summer days spent at the popular beach at Lily Lake during the 1960’s and 1970’s. The 41-acre

Suchy’s Scoop

Erik Suchy

Road improvement project in Forest Lake moves forward

The road improvement project on County Highway 32 in Forest Lake will move forward after the Washington County Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of right of way.

The purchase includes permanent rights of way, permanent road easements, drainage and utility easements and temporary easements necessary to improve County Highway 32 from I-35 to Highway 61.

The right of way purchase estimate is approximately $1,175,000 and will be funded by state aid and local contributions.

The proposed Highway 32 project includes improvements made to intersection and traffic safety, capacity and operational improvements, surface water and drainage improvements, pedestrian and bicycle improvements, access management and pavement improvements.

Construction will begin in 2026.

Construction

for 2nd environmental center underway

A new county environmental center will be built near Highway 61/Forest Boulevard and Headwaters Parkway in Forest Lake. This will be the second environmental center in Washington County.

The new center will allow residents in the northern part of the county to dispose of hazardous materials, electronics and other items that do not belong in the trash. It will be built on a 35-acre parcel, will have an operations building, a covered drive-through drop-off lane, office space, afree product room and an education space.

Additionally, the Washington County Northern Yard Waste site, currently located in Hugo, will move to the new environmental site.

The center is anticipated to be completed in the late summer of 2024. For more information, and updates, go to www. co.washington.mn.us/3651/ North-Environmental-Center.

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Law enforcement agencies in Washington County introduce new program

Law enforcement agencies across Washington County are excited to introduce “Crime Mapping,” a user-friendly web-based program designed to offer the public a visual representation of crime incidents within the county’s jurisdiction.

Crime Mapping is a useful tool for law enforcement and residents. It will help to identify patterns and crime trends within a selected geographical area. The program allows for easy access to incident data, including incident type, data, time and location and associated case numbers for up to 180 days.

For more information on Crime Mapping or to check out Washington County’s new publicaccess platform, visit www.crimemapping.com.

Construction begins at William O’Brien State Park

Courthouse in Stillwater now open

The Washington County Historic Courthouse will welcome visitors again after being closed for renovations since June 2023.

Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours and guided tours Wednesdays through Sundays. In addition to the tours, the Washington County Historic Courthouse offers fun activities for children and families, educational programming, public events and private meeting and rental spaces.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Action-packed summer program coming to Forest Lake

Camp Invention, a nonprofit summer enrichment program, is coming to Forest Lake Area High School the week of Monday, July 8 through Friday, July 12, 2024.

Camp Invention is the only nationally recognized summer program focused on creativity, innovation, real-world problem solving and the spirit of invention. Through hands-on programming, Camp Invention encourages children entering kindergarten through sixth grade to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics curricula inspired by some of the world’s greatest inventors.

All local programs are facilitated and taught by qualified educators who reside and teach in the community. Camp Invention serves 122,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,500 schools and districts across the nation.

Forest Lake Area High School is located at 6101 Scandia Trail N. For more information or to register, visit invent.org/camp.

The lower portion of William O’Brien State Park will be closed through early 2025 as improvements are being made to increase accessibility for park visitors.

“William O’Brien State Park is very popular, with nearly 275,000 visitors in 2023, and this project has been several years in the making,” said Ann Pierce, director of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Parks and Trails Division.

“The Minnesota DNR is constantly working to make our state park system more accessible, and this project is a key advancement in our efforts to ensure Minnesotans of all abilities can enjoy our state’s outdoor experiences.”

Accessibility improvements at the park include additional accessible campsites, an accessible canoe and kayak launch, trail upgrades to better accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices and new restrooms and shower facilities.

The Historic Courthouse, which is the longeststanding courthouse in the state of Minnesota, underwent an extensive restoration that replaced the roof, repaired the cupola and dome, replaced deteriorated bricks and mortar, waterproofed the foundation and installed new downspouts.

The courthouse is located at 101 W. Pine St., Stillwater and hours are 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayFriday and 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

To learn more about tours, rentals and the Historic Courthouse, visit www.co.washington.mn.us/2204/ Historic-Courthouse.

Washington County Historical Society receives funds

The Washington County Historical Society has received funds from the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) to hire a qualified historian to research and write the history of wedding traditions in Washington County.

Small grants are awarded quarterly to help nonprofits, educational organizations, government units and federally recognized tribes to preserve and share Minnesota history.

Washington County Parks purchases all-terrain wheelchairs

Two all-terrain wheelchairs will be available for visitors to use at the Lake Elmo Park Reserve

Gammelgarden Museum receives funding

The Gammelgarden Museum, located in Scandia, has received funds from the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS) to hire a qualified and experienced HVAC engineer to evaluate how well the current system controls the museum environment.

The museum also has received funding to contribute toward the organization of its collections, allowing for greater public access to the community’s historic resources.

Small grants are awarded quarterly to help nonprofits, educational organizations, government units and federally recognized tribes to preserve and share Minnesota history. This cycle of awards was approved by the MNHS Executive Council in March.

Stillwater participates in No Mow May

The city of Stillwater will participate in No Mow May this month. In May, as daylight hours increase and the days get warmer, bees and other pollinators emerge from dormancy to feed on blooming plants native to Minnesota. Thicker ground cover slows down evaporation and aids

in conserving moisture, which helps protect early season habitat for threatened bee populations and pollinators.

To participate, residents simply refrain from moving their lawns. The limit for mowing is once or twice during the month. The city will refrain from enforcing turf height for the month of May; simply let the city know if your household will be participating.

Heading into June, residents will need to return to their conventional mowing practices to comply with city code. Residents can learn more about No Mow May by going to the city’s website, www. stillwatermn.gov.

Stillwater Human Rights Commission seeks nominations

The Stillwater Human Rights Commission is currently accepting nominations for the Stillwater Human Rights Award. This award recognizes someone who is striving for an environment that promotes fair and equal treatment for everyone.

Nominees can be individuals, businesses or organizations that reside, work or volunteer in the city of Stillwater. Nominations are due by May 31. Visit the city’s website, www.stillwatermn.gov., to obtain a nomination form.

Most of the park will remain open to visitors during construction, including the Savanna Campground and Wedge Hill Group Camp. Most of the park’s 17 miles of hiking trails will stay open, as well as the park office and interpretive center.

Construction requires that the lower portion of the park near Lake Alice and the St. Croix River be closed to visitors.

Area of the park that are closed include:

• Mondale Day Use Area, including the St. Croix River public water access, Lake Alice swimming beach, parking lot and picnic shelters.

• Riverway campground.

• Riverside group camp and trail.

Ongoing updates on construction will be available on the park website of the DNR website at mndnr.gov/ state_parks/william-obrien-accessibility-improvements.html.

Madeline Dolby

beginning this spring.

Washington County Parks used funds from the Minnesota Department of Health Statewide Health Improvement Partnership to purchase two GRIT all-terrain wheelchairs for individuals to check out for free while visiting the park.

The lever-driven off-road chair is a cross between a mountain bike and a wheelchair. It will allow individuals to access more rugged trails and terrain.

For more information, see the Washington County parks website or contact Parks Staff at 651430-8370.

Park campgrounds to open

Washington County has two campgrounds for a getaway. One is located at the Lake Elmo Park Reserve, and the other at the St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park.

Find a campsite that suits your needs, including sites with electric and water hookups, group sites and rustic hike-in sites.

This year, campgrounds will be open from April 26-Oct. 19. Lake Elmo Park Reserve is located at 1515 Keats Ave. N. St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park is located at 10191 St. Croix Trail S., Hastings. To make a camping reservation, go to www. co.washington.mn.us/1820/Camping.

May 1 - 5 vs. Louisville Bats

May 7 - 12 vs. Toledo Mud Hens

May 14 - 19 vs. Omaha Storm Chasers

May 21 - 26 vs. Buffalo Bisons

May 28 - 31 vs. Rochester Red Wings

CONTRIBUTED

The Washington County Historic Courthouse is once again welcoming visitors. The courthouse is located at 101 W. Pine St., Stillwater.

The lower portion of William O’Brien State Park will be closed through early 2025 for construction.

The

The hosts of the St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour will be welcome visitors back to their studios the weekend of May 10. This year there will be a total of 69 potters from across the nation, with a few international artists, too. Considered a Minnesota tradition, the St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour consists of a series of pottery sales at seven different studios near the upper St. Croix River. The host studios include Linda Christianson’s studio nestled in a clearing in the woods and Guillermo Cuellar’s hilltop studio overlooking the St. Croix River, where he is joined by co-host Alana Cuellar. Peter Jadoonath’s studio has a view of rolling farm fields, Jeff Oestreich’s

WHATS NEW STILLWATER

NEW BUSINESSES

1. All Things Sheared

What: Farm Market Where: 125 Main St. Contact: allthingssheared.com/pages/ contact

About Us: A collective farm market with products ranging from honey to clothing

2. AR Workshop

What: Art Studio

Where: 233 2nd St. S.

Contact: 651-321-1029

About Us: Offers hands-on craft classes, group activities, private parties and a curated selection of gifts and on-trend home décor.

3. Window Genie

What: Window washing Where: Stillwater, MN Contact: 651-829-6660

About Us: Specializes in residential and

commercial window cleaning, pressure washing, holiday lighting, gutter cleaning and window tinting. Estimates for window and home services are free.

4. SummerSnow Publications: What: Multimedia stories

Where: Stillwater, MN

Contact: summersnowpub.square.site/

About Us: A chapter a day in a multimedia way to be enjoyed over coffee, during a workplace break, or unwinding at night over a glass of wine.

5. Eating, Elevated

What: Alternative medicine practice

Where: 124 2nd St. S.

Contact: 651-383-4491

About Us: Our mission is to remove what doesn’t belong and to replace what is missing, restoring health and balance to your body.

early Minnesota homestead was remade into a studio, and Will Swanson and Janel Jacobson’s studio is close by the Wild River State Park. Longtime host Richard Vincent has retired from hosting the tour but will be showing his pottery as a guest artist in Oestreich’s studio this year.

These host potters invite guest artists to participate too, offering visitors a wide range of distinctive ceramics for sale and a chance to meet artists face to face.

Admission is free, self-guided and open to everyone. The studios are all a short drive from each other. For more information including a map, list of participating artists or to join the tour’s mailing list, visit minnesotapotters.com.

The bison return to Belwin Conservancy

On Saturday, May 18, Belwin Conservancy will hold its annual Belwin Bison Festival. The festival marks the release of the 2024 NorthStar bison herd onto the Bison Prairie.

The release of the bison has been a staple of Belwin’s restoration efforts since 2008, when NorthStar Bison first partnered with the conservancy to bring these animals back to their native prairie habitat.

In addition to the release, the event will feature food trucks, live music, a 5K “Run with the Bison” fun run, ecoarts and more.

The festival will be held at the Lucy

Scandia Museum hosts open house

Gammelgarden Museum, located in Scandia, will hold an open house from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday, May 4. Opening Day celebrates the museum’s 52nd year.

The focus of this year’s exhibit will be pastimes and games of early immigrants. There will be free selfguided tours of Gammelgarden’s historic buildings, hands-on activities, an artists and crafters fair, an art exhibit, Living History of Society of MN costumed interpreters, and more.

In additions, visitors can experience what life was like for immigrants and early settlers by packing a steamer trunk for America, similar to Swedish immigrants would have done in the 1800s, make homemade butter, weave on large looms, “milk” a cow and write on slates as children once did in the schoolhouse.

This event is free and open to the public. The Gammelgarden Museum is located at 20880 Olinda Trail, Scandia. Call 651-433-5053 for questions and more information.

Riding the rails north: Orphan Train in Minnesota

The Washington County Historical Society will host a free talk about the

The Orphan Train Movement was a national welfare program that transported minors via train from cities in the East to the Midwest in the hopes that they would be taken in by families in rural areas.

Approximately 5,000-6,000 children were sent to Minnesota via the orphan trains, nearly half of whom arrived between 1882 and 1892. The hidden story of the orphan train movement in Minnesota will be explained from its beginnings to its climax.

Schrankler’s program will allow attendees to be acquainted with the local and national personalities who initiated the largest mass migration of children in United States history. The orphan train movement in Minnesota will be the focus of the presentation. However, the perspective of the national background of the movement will be included.

The program is free to the public and reservation are not required. Event attendees may attend in person or virtually on the Washington County Historical Society’s YouTube page. The event will take place at the Washington County Heritage Center, 1862 South Greeley St., Stillwater. For questions, contact Washington County Heritage Center Site Manager Emily Krawczewski at emily. krawczewski@wchsmn.org or 651-4392298.

32nd annual St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour

Winton Bell Athletic Fields, 15601

Hudson Road N., Lakeland from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There is an entrance fee.

Orphan Train Movement featuring author and historian Bill Schrankler at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18.

CONTRIBUTED

The St. Croix Valley Pottery Tour will return the weekend of May 10.

WHITE BEAR LAKE | AVENUE OF THE ARTS

AGING GRACEFULLY

AGING GRACEFULLY

Pets can bring health and social benefits for seniors

Pets can bring health and social benefits for seniors

When Joanne Nichols would visit the Minnesota Veterans Home with her dog, Rufus, she usually asked the residents, “Did you have dogs in your life?”

When Joanne Nichols would visit the Minnesota Veterans Home with her dog, Rufus, she usually asked the residents, “Did you have dogs in your life?”

“The question around pets always seems to make the residents light up, and we can have a pretty lengthy conversation about it,” said Nichols.

“The question around pets always seems to make the residents light up, and we can have a pretty lengthy conversation about it,” said Nichols.

For many of us, pets have been an important part of our lives. As we age, we may want to continue to keep our furry friends around for comfort and companionship as well as for the health and social benefits they provide.

For many of us, pets have been an important part of our lives. As we age, we may want to continue to keep our furry friends around for comfort and companionship as well as for the health and social benefits they provide.

blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It’s been found that just 15 minutes spent bonding with an animal lowers cortisol and increases serotonin. As a result, having a pet can greatly decrease stress.

blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It’s been found that just 15 minutes spent bonding with an animal lowers cortisol and increases serotonin. As a result, having a pet can greatly decrease stress.

Mental health can improve along with physical health. Pets provide an opportunity to socialize with other when their owners take them to the vet, groomer, pet store or dog park.

Mental health can improve along with physical health. Pets provide an opportunity to socialize with other when their owners take them to the vet, groomer, pet store or dog park.

For Tami Zappa, she and her dog Archie make frequent visits to see Tami’s mother, who is living in memory care, for a bit of social interaction.

CONTRIBUTED

care of them. Consequently, Rufus became a temporary pet for the residents.

care of them. Consequently, Rufus became a temporary pet for the residents.

Owning a pet can be expensive, as well, for folks on a fixed income. Food, toys and vet care can add up. Consider how much you’re able to spend on a pet before adopting. Birds or fish might be a low-cost option for those who still want to get a pet.

Choosing the right pet for you:

Owning a pet can be expensive, as well, for folks on a fixed income. Food, toys and vet care can add up. Consider how much you’re able to spend on a pet before adopting. Birds or fish might be a low-cost option for those who still want to get a pet.

Choosing the right pet for you:

Pets for Seniors is a program that was created to match senior cats and dogs with owners. Often, senior animals are calmer than a new puppy or kitten. The program pays for most of the adoption fee and makes sure to match owners with a relaxed, house-trained dog.  Many shelters recommend that potential pet owners come in to visit a potential pet before they commit to the idea of adopting.

Pets can improve senior’s health:

Owning a pet can provide health benefits like increased exercise, but they also have some lesserknown health benefits.

Pets can improve senior’s health: Owning a pet can provide health benefits like increased exercise, but they also have some lesserknown health benefits. According to the CDC, regular walking or playing with pets can decrease

According to the CDC, regular walking or playing with pets can decrease

TIPS:

TIPS:

TIPS:

TIPS:

For Tami Zappa, she and her dog Archie make frequent visits to see Tami’s mother, who is living in memory care, for a bit of social interaction.

“My parents also have a dog, Milo, and I’m not sure what my dad would do without him,” said Zappa.  Zappa said Milo keeps her father, who is in his 80s, quite active when they go for walks. They’re known

“My parents also have a dog, Milo, and I’m not sure what my dad would do without him,” said Zappa.  Zappa said Milo keeps her father, who is in his 80s, quite active when they go for walks. They’re known

to make new friends along the way.

Things to think about when adopting a pet:

to make new friends along the way.

Pets can provide love and companionship for seniors, but they still require plenty of care. It’s important to consider how much care is required for each pet.

Things to think about when adopting a pet: Pets can provide love and companionship for seniors, but they still require plenty of care. It’s important to consider how much care is required for each pet.

If remembering to feed, medicate or walk a pet is difficult, it may be better to schedule frequent visits with therapy animals.

If remembering to feed, medicate or walk a pet is difficult, it may be better to schedule frequent visits with therapy animals. Nichols knows that many of the veterans she used to visit would’ve loved to have had their own pet, but weren’t in a position to take

Nichols knows that many of the veterans she used to visit would’ve loved to have had their own pet, but weren’t in a position to take

Depending on your activity level, a dog might be a good fit. Owning a dog can provide socialization and exercise opportunities for those who feel that they have the energy to care for one. Cats, on the other hand, require less activity and can still provide comfort while needing less maintenance. Other lowmaintenance pets include birds, fish, hermit crabs and guinea pigs.

Depending on your activity level, a dog might be a good fit. Owning a dog can provide socialization and exercise opportunities for those who feel that they have the energy to care for one. Cats, on the other hand, require less activity and can still provide comfort while needing less maintenance. Other lowmaintenance pets include birds, fish, hermit crabs and guinea pigs.

10 questions to ask when considering a pet for a senior

1. Is the senior set in their ways?

2. Have they had a pet before?

Pets for Seniors is a program that was created to match senior cats and dogs with owners. Often, senior animals are calmer than a new puppy or kitten. The program pays for most of the adoption fee and makes sure to match owners with a relaxed, house-trained dog.  Many shelters recommend that potential pet owners come in to visit a potential pet before they commit to the idea of adopting.

In Zappa’s case, Archie and Milo have been welcomed companions for her and her parents, no matter their age.

In Zappa’s case, Archie and Milo have been welcomed companions for her and her parents, no matter their age.

“I think if someone is a dog lover, seeing a pet at any age is going to make anyone happy,” said Zappa.

Corinne Stremmel

“I think if someone is a dog lover, seeing a pet at any age is going to make anyone happy,” said Zappa.  Corinne Stremmel

• Introduce yourself and use their name. Utilize name tags if available.

best. Work with the care team to determine this time.

4. Would a therapeutic or emotional support animal be beneficial?

7. Is the pet healthy?

8. One pet or two?

Multi-tasking may add confusion and even frustration.

10 questions to ask when considering a pet for a senior

1. Is the senior set in their ways?

2. Have they had a pet before?

3. Does the senior have any disabilities or functional limitations?

• Plan a visit for the time of day when your loved one is at his or her

• Introduce yourself and use their name. Utilize name tags if available.

3. Does the senior have any disabilities or functional limitations?

• Plan a visit for the time of day when your loved one is at his or her

• Prepare for your visit with reasonable expectations. Your time together may be different

5. What age pet would be best?

best. Work with the care team to determine this time.

4. Would a therapeutic or emotional support animal be beneficial?

now, but it still can have meaning for you both. Find meaningful activities to engage in during the visit.

9. Are finances an issue?

6. What temperament would be a good fit for the senior?

• Prepare for your visit with reasonable expectations. Your time together may be different

5. What age pet would be best?

6. What temperament would be a good fit for the senior?

now, but it still can have meaning for you both. Find meaningful activities to engage in during the visit.

7. Is the pet healthy?

• Direct your focus to your loved one.

10. Is there a backup plan in place for the pet?

• Be patient, flexible and present. Live in the moment.

8. One pet or two?

Multi-tasking may add confusion and even frustration.

9. Are finances an issue?

• Be patient, flexible and present. Live in the moment.

• Direct your focus to your loved one.

10. Is there a backup plan in place for the pet?

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Preliminary Artist Renderings

Furry friends can provide comfort, companionship as well as health and social benefits as we age.

The Lowdown Person of the Month

Name: Trudy Kunkel

Residency: Mankato, MN

Why are you visiting Stillwater?

We decided to do a little day trip. We’re here actually for the Frozen Four in St. Paul cheering on Colorado.

What’s your policy on littering? What do you think the penalty should be?

Oh boy, that’s serious to me. Just put your garbage away and keep the streets clean for everyone else to enjoy.

Stauner Family Insurance Question of the month: What is the best life policy? For me it’s to treat people with kindness, it doesn’t cost you anything.

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safe on the water this summer

Water competency is a

Water competency has three main components according to the American Red Cross: water smarts, swimming and helping others.

Water smarts:

• K now your limitations; this includes physical fitness.

• Never swim alone; swim with lifeguards and/or water watchers present.

• Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket appropriate for your weight and size.

• Swim sober.

• Understand and adjust for the unique risks of the water environment you are in, such as river currents, ocean rip currents and water temperature.

Swimming:

Learn how to perform these five basic skills in every type of water environment that you may encounter. These types of environments can be a pool, ocean, lake, rivers and streams.

• Enter water that’s over your head, then return to the surface.

• Float or tread water for at least one minute.

• Swim at least 25 yards.

• Exit the water.

Helping others: These actions can help your family avoid emergencies and help you respond if an emergency does occur:

• Pay close attention to children or weak swimmers you are supervising in or near water.

• K now CPR and first aid.

• K now the signs that someone is drowning. Other tips include telling a friend you’re going out and when you will be back, being weather aware and knowing your boat.

Enjoying Minnesota’s lakes and rivers by paddle or motorboat is a privilege that comes with some serious responsibilities. Fun boating is safe boating.

Madeline Dolby FILE

Boat marinas in the area, a summer spent on the water

Boating season is almost upon us.

Whether you own a boat, or are looking for a way to get out on the water, we have accumulated a list of boat marinas in the area that offer rental slips, boat rentals or both.

Forest Lake

TIMM’S MARINA ON FOREST LAKE

Where: 9080 Jewel Lane

Details: Located on Southeastern Forest Lake, Timm’s Marina feels like you are Up North but is just a short drive to all the cities have to offer. Easy for boating families to use and enjoy.

Contact: 651-464-3890 or info@ timmsmarina.com

YOUR BOAT CLUB

Where: 97 N. East 1st St.

Details: Whether you want to get out on the water for a day, for unlimited annual trips, purchase a boat or have your family boat serviced by an expert this marina does it all.

Contact: 651-294-6184

Stillwater

SUNNYSIDE MARINA

Where: 6413 St. Croix Trail N.

Details: A member owned marina. Slips available for rental and sale. Sunnyside Marina is member focused, serving “one boater at a time.”

Contact: 651-439-2118

MULBERRY POINT YACHT HARBOR

Where: Downtown Stillwater

Details: Mulberry Point Yacht Club owns and maintains 157 slips, ramps and walkways. All slip owners are members. Members have use of bathrooms, showers, the pool and parking lots.

Contact: 651-571-0316

OLE SAWMILL MARINA

Where: 2009 Lake Street

Details: For nearly 20 years, Ole Sawmill has been a family owned and operated marina located on the St. Croix River just north of downtown Stillwater. The marina offers seasonal

slips, pontoons rentals for a full or half day and a vacation rental house.

Contact: 608-412-1507

WOLF MARINA

Where: 514 Alder Street E.

Details: A third generation family owned and operated marina. Wolf Marina has 250 slips that range in size from 18 to 50 feet, accommodating a variety of boats from runabouts to cruisers, pontoons and houseboats.

Contact: 651-439-2341

Bayport:

BAYPORT MARINA

Where: 200 Fifth Ave. S.

Details: A member-owned marina, offering slips for purchase or lease for boats 32 to 70 feet and overnight transient slips for any boat size. There also is a fuel dock, a boutique and a heated pool.

Contact: 651-439-2040

 - 

RIVER PARK MARINA

Where: Bayport

Contact: 651-275-0229

The Beach House Marina and Boat

Rentals

Where: 101 Lake Circle

Details: Rent a pontoon and enjoy the St. Croix River.

Contact: 651-275-0229

Marine on St. Croix: MARINE LANDING

Where: 10 Elm Street

Details: A private, members only marina on the St. Croix River. Open to the public, the marina offers marine services for your boat. This includes tune-ups, winterizations, custom pontoon re-decking and boat storage.

Contact: 651-433-2864

WELCOME TO BAYPORT

Local volunteers celebrate life in the St. Croix River Valley

BY MADELINE DOLBY STAFF WRITER

Throughout the year, the Bayport Community Action League (BCAL) provides the residents of Bayport endless opportunities to come together as a community to celebrate the seasons, the holidays and the town they call home.

The BCAL is made up of a group of about a dozen members. Their goals are to bring community together, prove an opportunity for personal growth and leadership training, and provide social and recreational activities for the members of its organization.

“We moved to Bayport almost 10 years ago, me and my family did,” said Sarah Deziel, BCAL co-president. Currently, Deziel has two girls who are in middle school and high school. “When they were younger, we were just doing all these fun activities and just loved all these things going on in Bayport.”

Deziel had a friend in town that said they need more help planning the events. She jumped on board and started to help plan all the events that her family loved about Bayport. Deizel has been a member since around 2015 and became co-president two years ago. Last year, she was co-president with Sarah Schroeder. This year, she is co-president beside Mary Goulette.

“Everybody is a volunteer, but we have a small handful of extended members that will help with different events or certain things that we do,” said Deizel.

The BCAL started off as just a small group that puton Derby Days, a weekendlong celebration. Currently, the BCAL hosts seven major events throughout the year. Events include an ice cream social in June, a farmers market and a tree lighting ceremony in December.

The farmers market is held from 2:30-6:30 p.m. every Monday at the Village Green beginning June 17; it ends on October 14. The market includes a variety of food and craft vendors each week.

Derby Days takes place the third weekend of every September. The BCAL and other local businesses host the event. This year, Derby Days will take place Friday, Sept. 20 and Saturday, Sept. 21.

“Friday night we have a street dance. We’ve just brought that back in the last, maybe, four years,” said Deziel. “And that is so fun.”

Deziel said the quintessential Bayport community event is the duck race that takes place on Saturday morning during Derby Days. The BCAL sells rubber ducks about two months leading up to the weekend. The ducks are dumped into the creek in Perro Park. Once in the water, the ducks then race to the end of the creek. The person with the winning duck receives a cash prize.

“One year my daughter’s duck won,” Deziel added. “It was a lot of fun.”

After Friday night and the street dance concludes, the celebration moves down to Lakeside Park. The rest of the weekendlong celebration features food trucks, a live band and DJ, activities for kids and fireworks on Saturday night.

In December, the community comes together to light the trees in Village Green Park. The Stillwater High School Vagabond Choir performs, and there is even a visit from Santa accompanied by hot chocolate and cookies.

“It feels like it’s straight out of a Hallmark holiday movie,” Deziel said. Lights are wrapped around all the trees in the park and Christmas trees are brought

in. “Every year a kid from town, at random, is chosen to flip the switch and the lights come on.”

“Our community is really supportive of everything that we do,” Deziel concluded. “We have a pretty great representation of business owners within BCAL.” The mayor of Bayport, Michele Hanson, is a member of the group too.

The group meets the second Thursday of every month in the Bayport Legion. During the warmer months, the group meets outside at Lakeside Park. To be a member, you have to be 18 years old. Those interested in becoming a member can attend a meeting, apply online through the BCAL website or reach out to Deziel at bcal55003@gmail.com.

Madeline Dolby is a Staff Writer at Press Publications. She can be reached at 651-407-1226 or lowdownnews@presspubs.com.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Every June, the BCAL hosts an ice cream social to welcome summer.

One of the events during Derby Days is the duck races. The race takes place Saturday morning.

The Bayport Community Action League hosts Derby Days during the third weekend of September. Events include a street dance, a duck race and fireworks.

Bayport celebrates the holiday season with the lighting of the Village Green.

Vineyards & Breweries

UPCOMING EVENTS

May 1 Cribbage Tournament 6:30-8:30 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 1 Muskc: Grace notes 5:30-8:30 p.m. 7 Vines Vineyard

May 2 Music: Noah Burnett 4-7 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 2 Corn Hole 6-7:30 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 4 Derby Viewing Party Noon-6 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 4 May the 4th Be With You All Day White Bear Meadery

May 4 Music Two Silo Winery & Vineyard

May 5 Cinco de Mayo Open Hours Dancing Dragonfly

May 5 Hudson Community 11 a.m.- Belle Ame Vineyard Wine Tasting 3:30 p.m.

Succulent workshop bee craft Noon-3:30 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 7 Yoga in the Vineyard 6-7 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 7 Trivia with Ryan 6:30-8 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 8 Music: Gary LaRue 5:30-8:30 p.m. 7 Vines Vineyard

Music: Sten Carlson 4-7 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

Puzzle Night 6-8 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

Farmers & Artisans Market 4-7 p.m.

Rustic Roots

May 11 Mother’s Day Mini-Market 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dancing Dragonfly

May 11 Mother’s Day Craft Fair Noon–5 p.m. White Bear Meadery

May 12 Mother’s Day Music: Josh Quinn 2-5 p.m. 7 Vines Vineyard

Two Silo Winery & Vineyard

May 12 Mother’s Day at the Winery various times Dancing Dragonfly

May 12 Mother’s Day Yoga 11 a.m.-Noon Rustic Roots

May 12 Music : Barstool Bandits Duo 3-6 p.m.

May 14 Yoga in the Vineyard 6-7 p.m.

Rustic Roots

Rustic Roots

May 14 Bingo 6:30-8:00 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 15 Cribbage Tournament 6:30-8 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 15 Music: Mike Bustin 5:30-8:30 p.m. 7 Vines Vineyard

May 16 Music: Nick Hensley 4-7 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 16 Beer/wine dinner 6-9 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 17 Art at the Winery - Paint & Sip 6-8:30 p.m. Dancing Dragonfly

May 18 Rosé in May 5-7 p.m. Dancing Dragonfly

May 19 Music: Michael Sherwood 3-6 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 19 Music: Cole Thomas 2-5 p.m. 7 Vines Vineyard

May 21 Yoga in the Vineyard 6-7 p.m.

Rustic Roots

May 21 Trivia with Ryan 6:30-8 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 22 Music: Patrick Allen 5:30-8:30 p.m. 7 Vines Vineyard

May 23 Music: Sarah VanValkenburg 4-7 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 25 Luxury Boudoir Event 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Belle Ame Vineyard

May 26 Music: Barley Jack Duo 3-6 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 26 Music Two Silo Winery & Vineyard

May 28 Yoga in the Vineyard 6-7 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 28 Bingo 6:30-8 p.m. Rustic Roots

May 28 Paint & Sip 7-9 p.m. White Bear Meadery

May 29 Music: Caleb Corona 5:30-8:30

May 29

May 29 Cribbage Tournament 6:30-8

7 Vines Vineyard

Rustic Roots