Shoreview Press

2024 Voters’ Guide

SHOREVIEW — Former mayor Sandy Martin poured her heart into the city for 26 years, and the city is honoring her legacy.

When Martin retired in December 2022, city leaders announced the renaming of the Shoreview Commons pond and garden area as the “Sandy Martin Legacy Gardens.”

From that point, Shoreview Commons park staff completed a variety of projects to enhance the area before it was officially dedicated to Martin. Staff installed an arbor, planted

Final plat for Union Gospel Mission changes; fewer villas will be built

BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR

Fourteen villa-style lots will be built on what was previously known as the Union Gospel Mission site, located at 580 Highway 96 in Shoreview. The site will also feature beach access for villa residents.

The property was formerly owned by the Union Gospel Mission, which had used the property to operate a ministry center since the 1930s. The site had

been used for a variety of programs associated with the mission, including day camps for children, staff and corporate retreats, special events and other activities.

On May 28, 2024, the City Council reviewed and approved a comprehensive plan amendment and rezone commission and a conditional use permit for a controlled access beach lot. The project also received approval from the Minnesota Department of

Natural Resources in April.

Currently, there are four buildings on the site that were constructed between 1932 and 2015. There were multiple cabins built in the ’30s and ’40s that have since been torn down. The lodge was built in 1932, the ministry center was built in 2000 and the bathhouse was constructed in 1990.

There is also a concrete fire pit, a basketball court and playground equipment on the site, too. All buildings

on the property are currently vacant. Originally, the site was proposed to include 17 villa-style lots and 50.1 percent of open space (See “Union Gospel Mission site: Villas and beachfront a new possibility,” Shoreview Press, June 4, 2024.) The final site plan, proposed by Urban Works on behalf of Tycon Companies, will now feature 14 lots with 50.3 percent of open space.

MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The park was previously named the Shoreview Commons pond and garden area. SEE UNION GOSPEL MISSION SITE, PAGE 2

UNION GOSPEL MISSION SITE: New plans show reduction

FROM PAGE 1

“The final plat was reviewed by city staff and found to be in general compliance with the requirements and conditions of the preliminary plat approval,” said Allison Eddins, senior planner.

“The reduction in the number of villa lots, from 17 to 14, is not substantially different from the preliminary plat and does not require additional review.”

The controlled beach lot will have one dock with six mooring spaces shared among the villa owners. No overnight mooring will be allowed on the shared dock, nor will a boat launch be permitted. Residents will have to use the public boat launch. There will be a 4-foot path and stairs to provide access to the water.

According to a representative from Urban Works, the reduced number of villas came from conversations with

potential buyers. From those conversations, they learned that the market for these types of lots has changed, which impacted the number of lots that are planned. The road will not change and the main utility lines for water, sewer and electrical will remain the same. Two lots will experience changes in their utility lines. These changes will not affect the number of trees that will have to be removed. Two lots will be removed from the north side of the development. Lot 3 will be removed from Outlot A.

Once Tycon Companies breaks ground on the project, it could take up to four months for residents to begin to see homes being constructed in the area.

Madeline Dolby is editor of the Shoreview Press. She can be reached at 651-4311226 or shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com.

The previous Union Gospel Mission site will feature villa-style lots and beach access for villa residents.

LEGACY GARDENS: Shoreview honors former Mayor Sandy Martin for service

FROM PAGE 1

wisteria and clematis vines, and added stonework and other landscaping.

Martin played a significant role in the designing, planning and updating of the Shoreview Commons park in her time as mayor.

“What better way to acknowledge her than for something that’s going to be very permanent … in a beautiful area that she was a part of?” said Mayor Sue Denkinger.

The city held a dedication ceremony with Martin, her friends and other city leaders in attendance.

Denkinger and City Manager Brad Martens both gave remarks at the ceremony, but Martin did most of the speaking.

“She was absolutely delighted,” Denkinger shared. “This is something that her grandkids, her children, when they come to visit, it’s a permanent thing. It’ll always be there. And I think that meant so much to her.”

Following the event the city of Shoreview shared this on social media:

“It is thanks to her positive spirit, vision, leadership and service that Shoreview has such a high quality of life and is the wonderful community it is today. The Sandy Martin Legacy Gardens will ensure her legacy lives on for years to come.”

Martin’s legacy also continues through those she inspired and worked with in her time as mayor.

“I always admired Sandy and the dedication she had to the city, and you could just see that she truly did it out of genuine service,” Denkinger said.

“She’s just a very genuine, caring, dedicated servant leader, and that helped me, I think, successfully carry on the work of being the mayor of the city. She was a great model to watch.”

The Sandy Martin Legacy Gardens complement the many other amenities Shoreview Commons park has to offer, which include a hockey rink, a playground, pickleball courts, walking paths and more.

WHAT’S HAPPENING • WHAT’S HAPPENING

SHOREVIEW FARMERS MARKET

When: 3-6 p.m. Tuesdays through October

CONTRIBUTED

Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580

Victoria St.

Details: The farmers market is a weekly event that brings the community together and features local fresh produce, handcrafted artisan items and live entertainment

Contact: shoreviewmn.gov

CURRENT EVENTS

LAKESHORE QUILTERS GUILD MONTHLY MEETING

When: 6:30-9 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Where: Shepherd of the Hills Church (rear entrance, Door G), 3920 Victoria St. N., Shoreview

Details: Annual Schoolhouse: Demos of Tips and Techniques from three guild members. Fabric Embellished Cards; Fabric Stained Glass Quilt Variations and Rope Bowls. Visitors are welcome Contact: lakeshorequiltersmn. org MOUNTAINS OF HOPE BENEFIT CONCERT

When: 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, Sept. 26

Where: Irondale High School,

Details: Benefit concert for the Genia family of Shoreview. All proceeds will help Kara Genia, longstanding community member, who is battling cancer for the third time.

CULTURE IN THE COMMONS

When: 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29; 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6

Where: Haffeman Pavilion, 4580 Victoria St., Shoreview Details: Learn about various cultures in the community. Highlights Los Alegres Bailadores: Mexican folkloric dance. The Oct. 6 concert will highlight Afropop and traditional African (Congo Roots) catchy, upbeat songs. Contact: 651-490-4700

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

When: 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Oct. 5

Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580 Victoria St. N.

Details: Come check out all the big trucks used throughout the city. Climb into the driver’s seat of a snowplow, dump truck and more. Contact: 651-490-4700

KID’S GARAGE SALE

When: 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Oct. 5

Where: Shoreview Community Center, 4580

Victoria St. N.

Details: Kids can rent a table and sell toys, games, books and sporting goods. Food items cannot be sold. Register by Sept. 27.

Contact: 651-490-4700

AUTUMN ADVENTURE

YOGA STORYTIME

When: 6-6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 8

Where: Ramsey County

Library-Shoreview, 4560

Victoria St. N.

Details: Kids can enjoy a blend of yoga, mindfulness and an autumn-themed yoga story that inspires imagination and movement. For children ages 2-5.

Contact: 651-724-6006

PHOTOS BY MADELINE DOLBY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

The entrance to the new Sandy Martin Legacy Gardens located at the Shoreview Community Center.

A plaque that presents Sandy Martin’s contributions to the Shoreview Community.

Another school year on the horizon

How is summer already over? It feels like two weeks ago I was turning in my last final for the school year and excited to enjoy another Minnesota summer. I hope everyone had a great summer vacation. Mine was eventful and filled with trips and dinners with friends.

I took quite a few trips this summer. Two were “weekend getaways” and one was a week-long trip to Breckenridge, Colorado with my family. One of my weekend getaways was to my aunt’s house in Alexandria. I got to catch up with my cousins who live out of state and enjoy the lake life for a bit.

Madeline’s Mail

Madeline Dolby

The second weekend getaway was for the 4th of July. My family and I drove up to Duluth for the holiday weekend. We got there the morning of the fourth and wandered around the town till it was time to watch the fireworks from the hotel roof. The night of the Fourth, we stopped at an ice cream shop called Love Creamery in Canal Park. It was recommended to us by a local shop owner. She raved about how good the ice cream was, specifically the Goat Cheese Honeycomb flavor. I was not brave enough to try it, but the rest of my family had nothing but praise for it.

Colorado was an adventure. We stayed at a rental house in the mountains. My family and I tried to spend as much time as possible outside. We went hiking, white-water rafting and explored the town of Breckenridge. It was nice to slow down for a bit. I made a goal to stay off social media as much as possible during the trip too. The last year has been a bit hectic, and I think everyone in my family needed the R and R.

This year, I will be in my second year of graduate school at the University of St. Thomas. Surprisingly, I am ready to be back. I am excited to see my classmates and catch up with them about how their summers went. The program is a close group. Professors are understanding, knowledgeable and are genuine people that makes class enjoyable.

What I am most excited for this year is beginning my master’s project. My project consists of a 40-to50-page creative writing portfolio. My project must focus on one genre of writing and revolve around a central idea. Once my project is completed, my advisor and two other professors from the program will read through my work and provide feedback during a mini conference. There are three outcomes: pass with little revision, pass with heavy revision and fail.

For my project, I am leaning towards writing a collection in creative nonfiction, which is stories based on real life or personal experiences but with fictional characters or elements. Ever since I began writing my freshman year of college, I have gravitated towards creative nonfiction. I just have not decided on the general focus of the collection yet. There are so many possibilities, it is hard to narrow it down to just a single idea.

Not only am I excited to complete my last full year of graduate school, but I am also excited for hockey season to start. My family has invested in two pairs of season tickets this year. One set is for the University of Minnesota men’s team and the second set is for the University of St. Thomas men’s team. Once October rolls around, most of my weekends will be spent at the rink, and I cannot even begin to express how excited I am.

Madeline Dolby is editor of the Shoreview Press. She can be reached at 651-407-1226 or shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com.

SLocal city events and staff activities

ummer is winding down to my favorite time of year: fall. Whether you’re getting kids off to school, wrapping up summer vacations or preparing for leaf cleanup, there are some fun events happening in Shoreview. First, however, let’s talk about the popular Concert in the Commons series which wrapped up a very successful season. Nearly 8,000 people attended the concerts this summer, establishing a record for the event with an average attendance of almost 1,000 people per concert. Thanks to our parks and recreation staff for their work on organizing, managing and attracting talented performers.

Upcoming events: The Touch-ATruck and Kids Garage Sale are scheduled for Saturday, October 5 in the lower-level community center parking lot and Haffeman Pavilion. Kids and adults alike enjoy seeing and climbing into a variety of vehicles from dump trucks to fire trucks.

Shoreview has also expanded its Culture in the Commons program

Election season is considered to be when filing first begins until the day of the election.

• Limited to 350 words. Paid letters running longer will be charged $10 per 30 words after that.

Letters are free unless endorsing a candidate, party or question on the ballot.

Endorsement letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement letters are labeled, “paid letter.” Letters for or against a

this year. This series celebrates various cultures through music, storytelling and dance. Events takes place from 2:30- 4 pm on Sunday afternoons through October 6 at Haffeman Pavilion. The events are free, and all are welcome.

City recycling opportunities: 1) Residents who have sensitive documents they’d like to destroy are invited to bring them to McCullough Park on Saturday, October 5 from 8-11 am for a residential shredding event; and 2) Shoreview is offering a free curbside mattress collection to residents for one month through a partnership with Second Chance Recycling and Ramsey Washington Recycling and Energy. Scheduling for mattress pick up opens on October 14.

Emerald Ash Borer update: Like all cities, Shoreview continues to lose ash trees to Emerald Ash Borer. Shoreview’s forestry staff coordinated a fall tree sale in addition to the ongoing spring tree sale. Also, residents who lost an ash boulevard tree in 2023 or 2024 were offered a replacement planting of a different species. About half of the residents offered this service responded affirmatively.

City taxes: During our budget hearings this year, city staff spoke to the fact that a median

value Shoreview homeowner pays approximately $113 per month in city taxes for services, which is a great value! Some of these services are visible, such as street maintenance, trails and court resurfacing at city parks, tree replacement, and special events. Others are less visible yet no less important. They include testing the city’s drinking water, cleaning sanitary sewer mains to remove dirt and contaminates, park maintenance projects such as soil aeration, tree trimming to keep sight lines clean, and the exercise (open/close) of all city gate water valves. While these aren’t headline making activities, they are all critical to keep city infrastructure functioning effectively --like a well running machine.

To end this update, I want to commend Shoreview’s communication team who work hard to promote the city’s events, update social media pages and extend outreach to the community in all formats. It’s challenging to reach a community of nearly 27,000 residents so your acknowledgement, feedback and suggestions to that team are appreciated. Enjoy this beautiful fall!

SHOREVIEW PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES

candidate will qualify as paid letters.

Submissions must include a full name, address and phone number for verification.

Letter-writers must live, work or have another connection to Press Publications coverage area.

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

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

be published. Repeat paid endorsement letters will be published as space permits.

• Four weeks (or issues) must pass between publication of unpaid letters from the same writer. Exceptions may be made for rebuttal letters at the editor’s discretion.

• Submissions containing libelous or derogatory statements will not be published.

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

• We reserve the right to not publish any letter. The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication. The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 5 election will be printed in the Oct. 22 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.16. To submit a letter, email news@presspubs.com or mail/ deliver it to Press Publications.

Letters reprinted as part of letter-writing campaigns are paid letters. All letters are subject to editing.

Sue Denkinger is the Mayor of Shoreview.

Movers & Shakers

Sue Denkinger

Response to Gene Johnson’s recent column

Gene Johnson’s kindly, objective, common-sense editorial encouraging readers to understand the issues is refreshing in today’s media so saturated with venomous partisan politics. I concur with every point Gene made.

This presidential election is not about personality; it is not about party; it is about policy for the future for our families, children and grandchildren.

Both major candidates this year have held office before, allowing voters to compare those individual’s performances on the major issues of concern, and to assess the impact of their implemented policies on our current situation as well as how it sets our nation up for the future.

Ask yourself: whose policies resulted in my family being better off, and our nation’s future being better protected?

Research party platforms, understand what they mean before you vote! Debate and discuss. But think for yourself, and vote not as somebody tells you to or from habit. From reason. Your family’s future is at stake.

Betty Ziskovsky Shoreview

Response to Gene Johnson’s comments on electric vehicles

Is an EV right for everyone right now? No. Everyone’s transportation needs are different. Any new car isn’t cheap. Apartment dwellers have a harder time charging at home. However, today these is an increasing variety of EVs that have greater battery range, can charge more quickly, and are getting less expensive. What you buy is up to you. Plug-in hybrids that go maybe 50 miles on a battery before switching to gas or a hybrid can meet many people’s needs. In the first half of 2024 in California— yes, I know we are not California—

CONSTRUCTION BRIEF

only 62% of new vehicles ran on gas or diesel alone. That increases gasoline supply and drives down gas prices for those who aren’t driving EVs. Lower oil demand de-fangs authoritarian petrostates like Russia. Everybody wins!

As for charging, if every EV used a powerful public fast charger in the middle of the day, we’d stretch the grid for sure, but more than 80% of charging takes place at home overnight at a cost equivalent of about $1 per gallon. Xcel loves selling electricity at night when demand is low. And get this—there are even pilot programs starting up around the country that will pay EV owners for a bit of electricity FROM the car’s battery TO the grid during peak demand.

Even many environmentally conscious friends are often unaware that you can take an EV road trip. I’ve taken my wife’s Chevy Bolt on two 2,500-mile round trips to the East Coast and to all points of the compass in Minnesota. Now, I have a Kia EV6 that goes about 300 miles between charges. It charges faster than I can use a restroom and grab a snack. You can even car camp in it and leave the car on all night using a tiny bit of charge to run climate control.

In short, EV technology and the economics get better every day. We EV Drivers would be happy to take Gene Johnson for a spin sometime!

Paul Gardner Shoreview

PAID LETTER

House District 40B candidates

At the HD40B candidate forum last week, two candidates for MN House Roseville/Shoreview shared different visions for our community and state.

Curtis Johnson was unprepared and confused. He regularly asked the moderator to repeat questions, wandered into incoherent answers, and offered strange advocacy to things like electric bus lines down Highway 96. Mr.

County undergoes reconstruction project in Mounds View

A detour will be in place during the construction.

Ramsey County will facilitate a drainage reconstruction project. It will include Silver Lake Road and Woodcrest Drive in Mounds View; work will begin Sept. 30 and end Oct. 7. A detour will be in place during construction.

For more information regarding the project, go to www.ramseycounty.us/residents/roadstransportation.

Johnson seemed unconcerned about the rising cost of living here and making ends meet. He tried telling us that the 40% increase in the state budget was no big deal — this is a state with a lot of Fortune 500 companies, so we can afford it. Wow! He is so obviously disconnected from the challenges Minnesotans are facing.

Paul Wikstrom was prepared. He gave thoughtful answers, making his priorities clear — affordability, accountability and transparency in state government, supporting law enforcement and reducing crime, increasing K-12 academic achievement in our schools and setting up our kids for success in any number of job paths. I also appreciated his logical approach to energy and environmental concerns. In short, Paul Wikstrom spoke for responsible, commonsense government. That would be a breath of fresh air.

Many people are finding it difficult to afford housing and the cost of food, gas, health care, transportation, college tuition and insurance continues to rise, with no end in sight. We have too many examples of fraud incompetence and arrogance in state government. The Feeding Our Future scandal saw over $250 million disappear, despite the red flags. It’s one of many pending cases of fraud in our state being investigated. With little notice or public input, the Legislature authorized $500 million for renovation and expansion of the State Office Building despite the inspection of the current building, which was found to be in fair to excellent condition. This “Taj Mahal” project for our part-time Legislature has since ballooned to nearly $730 million.

It’s long past time to fix these serious problems and start passing smart, sustainable budgets. To do that, we need common-sense citizens representing us and leading the charge. For that reason, I will be voting for Paul Wikstrom in HD40B.

NAMES IN THE NEWS

The Preserve of Roseville welcomes new executive director

The Preserve of Roseville, a senior living community in Roseville, welcomes Kristel Lastine as its new executive director.

Most recently, Lastine was the executive director at Great Lakes Management/Hayden Grove in St. Anthony, where she successfully led the preopening and ongoing development of the independent living, assisted living and memory care community, “I am honored to join The Preserve of Roseville and look forward to

working with such a dedicated, innovative and committed team,” Lastine said. “Together, we will continue to create a vibrant, supportive community where residents feel valued and cared for, and where our staff can thrive in their roles.”

Denise Kruse Shoreview

CONTRIBUTED Kristel Lastine will be the new executive director of The Preserve of Roseville.

COPS&COURTS

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS

The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected incidents in Shoreview:

• An Edina man, 25, was cited for speeding Aug. 10 at the intersection of Lexington Avenue N. and Lois Drive.

• Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies on Aug. 10 responded to a verbal domestic in the 5600 block of Snelling Avenue N., after which one of the participants declined to cooperate when deputies arrived on scene.

• A vehicle parked in the 200 block of Demar Avenue overnight Aug. 11-12 was reported broken into, and money stolen from the vehicle’s center console.

• Two males were reported Aug. 12 for shoplifting from the Target store in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue N. They were gone when deputies arrived.

• An adult male was arrested for grand theft at 5:24 p.m. Aug. 12, after a Roseville woman reported that someone stole her red 2021 Mazda CX-5 from in front of an address in the 4100 block of Sylvia Lane. The vehicle was recovered after it was entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database as stolen, and a Keep Our Kops Safe (KOPS) alert issued.

• A Coon Rapids woman reported that someone broke into her Jeep Compass as it was parked in the 4100 block of Rustic Place overnight Aug. 12-13 and stole several items, including a black shoulder bag, earbuds, a wallet and a USB charger. The case is under investigation.

• A Shoreview woman, 71, was cited at 11:03 p.m. Aug. 13 in the 3600 block of Lexington Avenue N. for failure to obey a traffic control device.

• A male motorist, 81, is suspected of hit-and-run driving following a crash in the intersection of Lexington Avenue N. and Hamline Avenue N. at 8:02 p.m. Aug. 13, during which he rear-ended another driver and didn’t stop to exchange insurance information.

• A resident in the 1300 block of West Royal Oaks Drive at 6:28 p.m. Aug. 13 reported watching television in her home and hearing a loud crash outside (that was not on TV). She jumped up in time to see a white vehicle driving off her front yard after it had damaged her landscaping.

BUILD THE

FOUNDATION - CREATE YOUR LEGACY - CREATE YOUR LEGACY BUILD THE FOUNDATION

BUILD THE FOUNDATION - CREATE YOUR LEGACY - CREATE YOUR LEGACY BUILD THE FOUNDATION

IRA Charitable Distribution

Building a Better Community through Charitable Giving

• A school bus driver at 12:33 p.m. Aug. 14 reported that someone backed a vehicle into the bus while it was parked in the 4500 block of Victoria Street and drove away without stopping. The driver, who was alone on the school bus, was uninjured, and the bus sustained no damage.

• A resident in the 1000 block of West Royals Oaks Drive at 3:07 a.m. Aug. 16 reported fraudulent charges on his Medicare statement.

• Employees of a financial institution in the 4000 block of Lexington Avenue N. on Aug. 16 reported harassing and threatening phone calls sent by a man from whom they were trying to collect a debt.

• The registered owner of a vehicle abandoned in the 200 block of Gramsie Road received a citation in the mail and will have discovered his vehicle towed, after he left it in the roadway overnight Aug. 16-17 when it got stuck.

• A Shoreview man, 37, was arrested for domestic assault Aug. 17 in the 500 block of County Road J after he hit his partner during an argument.

• Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office depites cited a Shoreview man, 23, for speeding Aug. 16 in the 5500 block of Snelling Avenue N. Another Shoreview man, 29, was cited the same morning for failure to provide proof of insurance at the intersection of County Road E and Victoria Street N. A Blaine woman, 30, was cited Aug. 17 at the intersection of Rice Creek Parkway and County Road J for driving without headlights.

• Deputies were called out to the scene of an argument between a mother and her children Aug. 19 in the 5600 block of Erik Lane and mediated the dispute.

• Deputies took custody of a Minnesota driver’s license found Aug. 20 near an ATM machine in the 5900 block of Rice Creek Parkway.

• A Shoreview man, 37, was cited for theft Aug. 20 at the Target store in the 3800 block of Lexington Avenue N. after he left the store without paying for merchandise. He was also issued a trespass notice.

• A Minneapolis man, 35, was issued a trespass notice Aug. 21 at the Shoreview Target after he was found urinating on the side of the building.

• An elderly resident in the 800 block of Sherwood

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Homicide suspect in custody following extensive search

HUGO — A woman is dead, and her son is in custody following an assault at a residence in Washington County Monday, Sept. 16.

Road on Aug. 21 reported fraudulent activity on his retirement account.

• A resident in the 4300 block of Chatsworth Circle on Aug. 21 reported being scammed by someone he met online who was supposed to be his financial trading partner. The case is currently under investigation.

• Deputies responded to the report of an Aug. 21 automobile accident in the intersection of County Road J and Pheasant Drive during which a vehicle driven by a Lino Lakes man was struck by another vehicle. The vehicle suspected of driving off without stopping to exchange information is a white truck.

• A Maplewood man reported finding a wallet Aug. 21 at a gas station in the 5900 block of Lexington Avenue N. and turned it in at the Ramsey County patrol station in Arden Hills.

• A growling coyote circling a parking lot in the 3500 block of Owasso Street was reported Aug. 21. The complaint told deputies the coyote growled and hissed at her when she tried to exit her vehicle. She managed to escape her vehicle by the time deputies arrived, and the coyote also escaped to its own better place.

• A domestic assault was reported Aug. 22 inside a vehicle in the 3400 block of Rice Street, during which a Shoreview woman, 43, got into a fight with her son, 23.

• A Shoreview youth, 15, was arrested at 3:34 a.m. Aug. 23 in the 200 block of Jansa Drive after deputies were dispatched out to the scene of people rummaging through parked vehicles. They arrived in time to catch the thieves in the act, and a foot pursuit took place. Deputies quickly apprehended the suspect and conducted all the usual formalities, including taking an evidential inventory of all the property that was stolen.

• A Coon Rapids woman reported the occupant of another vehicle that pulled up along beside her in the 1000 block of Red Fox Road at 9:20 a.m. Aug. 23 for rolling down his window and making lewd and threatening comments to her.

Loretta Harding

shouting in the background.

Upon arrival, deputies heard a struggle inside and entered the home, where they found 45-yearold Trevor Joseph Wunderlich leaning over his mother, 68-yearold Charlene Wunderlich. Charlene Wunderlich was observed to be badly bruised and groaning in pain. Deputies attempted to subdue the suspect with a taser, but he broke free and fled from the residence.

overnight and into Tuesday, Sept. 17. Just before 11 a.m., a citizen in the 9800 block of 152nd St. N. noticed a person matching the description of the suspect in their yard and called 911. Deputies immediately responded and arrested Trevor Wunderlich without incident.

Welcomes David Gottfried New Advisory Board Member

Make a tax-free gift to the Shoreview Community Foundation from an IRA in 2019

Building a Better Community through Charitable Giving

Details:

By connecting the generosity of people with the evolving needs of Shoreview, the Shoreview Community Foundation enriches our quality of life. The Foundation provides grants according to predetermined guidelines to non-profit organizations or units of governmental from its permanent endowment fund.

Despite lifesaving efforts, Charlene was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Court documents that were filed on Thursday, Sept. 19 stated that Wunderlich has been charged with a second-degree murder charge in the death of Charlene.

Individuals who are age 701/2 or older can make gifts of up to $100,000 directly from their IRA to one or more qualified charities, without paying federal income tax of the withdrawal. This option provides tax savings to donors even if they do not itemize deductions.

By connecting the generosity of people with the evolving needs of Shoreview, the Shoreview Community Foundation enriches our quality of life. The Foundation provides grants according to predetermined guidelines to non-profit organizations or units of governmental from its permanent endowment fund.

At approximately 5:55 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to a home on the 15900 block of Ingersoll Ave. N. after receiving an open-line 911 call. Telecommunicators could hear a woman moaning and a male voice

Law enforcement agencies from across the metro area assisted in the manhunt, which continued

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is assisting with the investigation.

• Donors must be age 701/2 or older at the time the gift is made.

There are many options for making undesignated or designated, tax deductible gifts or bequests by will or trust.

• The funds must be transferred directly to a qualified public charity. It is important not to withdraw the funds before making a gift.

• Gifts cannot be used to fund a gift annuity or charitable remainder trust.

• Each donor may give up to $100,000 per year.

There are many options for making undesignated or designated, tax deductible gifts or bequests by will or trust.

• Gifts can be used to satisfy the donor’s required minimum distribution.

• The school board received two gifts this period for schools and programs for a total of $600. Ten gifts were received for the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf for a total of $37,550.

• Superintendent Chris Lennox recognized the Irondale Highschool Marching Knights for placing first overall at the Class A 2024 Minnesota State Fair Parade and receiving the title of Grand Champion out of the 42 teams that competed.

• Donors can exclude the distribution from income on their federal tax returns. If they do, they will not receive a charitable income tax reduction.

• To qualify for tax-free treatment, donors cannot receive goods or services, or a personal benefit (such as tickets for events) in return for the IRA charitable distribution.

David moved to Shoreview in 2023 after getting married to his wife Haylee, but grew up just a few minutes south in Roseville. David currently works at a law firm as a Pro Bono Specialist, where he supports pro bono work across the country and increases access to the justice system in our community. David received his undergraduate degree in Music and Theater at St. Olaf College and holds a Masters of Public Policy from the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs. In his free time, David gardens, plays with his cats, and plays Dungeons and Dragons!

Contact the Shoreview Community Foundation at: www.shoreviewcommunityfoundation.org

The Shoreview Community Foundation does not give tax or legal advice. We recommend that donors consult their own professional tax advisor before making a gift.

The SCF seeks to maintain, enhance and enrich the quality of life in Shoreview by connecting the generosity of people who appreciate Shoreview with the evolving needs of the community

• The board approved the certified proposed maximum tax levy of $60.7 million for all district funds. The truth in taxation hearing will take place at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the District Center.

• School board members were provided with an update on the district operational plan goal (DOP) of meaningful family and community partnerships. A part of this goal is the Community Resource Center, which can be utilized by families within the Mounds View school district. The district will continue to work on the project with the Suburban Ramsey Family Collaborative, which helps connect individuals, families and community resources to create relationships that enhance the well-being of kids. The Subur-

ban Ramsey Family Collaborative provides schoollinked services. These services include school-based mental health services in partnership with Ramsey County Children’s Mental Health Collaborative, “Homework Starts with Home” in partnership with Solid Ground, and helping support wealth creation, jobs and training resources through bi-monthly team meetings with the Ramsey County Youth Works! Initiative and youth job fairs.

• Student from Mounds View High School who are a part of North Metro 916 Career and Technology program will begin building a single-family home after 916 entered into a joint powers agreement with North St. Paul.

The next Mounds Views Public Schools School Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, at the District Center, 4570 Victoria St. N., Shoreview. Public comments to the board will be at 6:30 p.m. before the meeting.

Madeline Dolby

MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS SCHOOL BOARD

PUBLIC NOTICES

CITY OF NORTH OAKS

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

ORDINANCE NO. 2024-150

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE TITLE XV, CHAPTER 151

RELATED TO REQUIRED LANDSCAPING AROUND SIGNS

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH OAKS ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:

Section One. Title XV, Chapter 151, Section 151.051 Amendment: Title XV, Chapter 151, Section 151.051(D)(3) (b)(9) of the North Oaks City Code is hereby amended as follows. The added language is shown underlined and the deleted language is shown with strikethrough:

§ 151.051 RSM - RESIDENTIAL SINGLE-FAMILY MEDIUM DENSITY DISTRICT.

9. Landscaping. Landscaping is required around the base of each sign consisting of a combination of shrubs, flowers, ornamental trees, and/or evergreens pursuant to a landscape plan approved by the City, with the landscaped area to be in an area no less than 6 times the area of the largest each sign face. This landscape plan is not required to be prepared by a registered landscape architect.

Section Two. Title XV, Chapter 151, Section 151.058 Amendment: Title XV, Chapter 151, Section 151.058(M)(1)(d) of the North Oaks City Code is hereby amended as follows. The added language is shown underlined and the deleted language is shown with strikethrough:

§ 151.058 CS - COMMERCIAL/SERVICE DISTRICT.

(M) Commercial/Service District signage standards.

(d) Landscaping is required around the base of each sign consisting of a combination of shrubs, flowers, ornamental trees, and/or evergreens pursuant to a landscape plan approved by the City, with the landscaped area to be in an area no less than 6 times the area of the largest each sign face. This landscape plan is not required to be prepared by a registered landscape architect. Section Three. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its passage and publication as provided by law.

Passed in regular session of the City Council of the City of North Oaks on the 12th day of September, 2024.

CITY OF NORTH OAKS

Krista Wolter, Mayor

Attested: Kevin Kress, City Administrator/City Clerk

Published one time in the Shoreview Press on September 24, 2024.

CITY OF SHOREVIEW

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON VACATION OF PUBLIC UTILITY EASEMENT ON LOT 1, BLOCK 1 SHOREVIEW ESTATES PURSUANT TO MINN. STAT. 412.851

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a hearing will be held before the council of the City of Shoreview at the City Hall Council Chambers, 4600 Victoria Street North, Shoreview, Ramsey County, Minnesota, at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, October 21, 2024, to consider a proposed vacation of public utility easement, legally described as: All that part of the 6’ utility easement as delineated and dedicated on Lot 1, Block 1, SHOREVIEW ESTATES, according to the recorded plat, Ramsey County, Minnesota. BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

/s/ Brad Martens, City Manager

Published two times in the Shoreview Press on September 24 and October 8, 2024.

CITY OF SHOREVIEW

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED ASSESSMENT LAKEVIEW DRIVE WATERMAIN EXTENSION PROJECT NO. 23-04

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the council of the City of Shoreview will meet at the City Hall Council Chambers, 4600 Victoria Street North, Shoreview, Ramsey County, Minnesota, at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, October 21, 2024, to consider, and possibly adopt, the proposed assessment for the above improvement. The proposed assessment roll is now on file and open to public inspection by all persons interested at the Office of the City Engineer, 4600 Victoria Street North, Shoreview, Minnesota.

The general nature of the above improvement is extending the watermain approximately 400 feet west of Lakeview Drive, north of Tanglewood Drive. The properties proposed to be assessed are listed below: 817 Tanglewood Drive 821 Tanglewood Drive 825 Tanglewood Drive

841 Tanglewood Drive

This notice is given pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429, as amended. The area proposed to be assessed for such improvement is the area described above. The City of Shoreview’s total cost of such improvement is $103,487.61. The proposed amount to be assessed is $29,525.00.

Such assessment is proposed to be payable in equal annual installments extending over a period of 15 years, the first of the installments to be payable on or before the first Monday in January 2025, and will bear interest at a rate of 4.50% per annum from the date of the adoption of the assessment resolution. To the first installment shall be added interest on the entire assessment from the date of the assessment resolution until December 31, 2024. To each subsequent installment when due shall be added interest for one year on all unpaid installments.

Written or oral objections will be considered at the meeting.

An owner may appeal an assessment to District Court pursuant to Minnesota Statute 429.081 by serving notice of appeal upon the Mayor or City Manager of the City within 30 days after the adoption of the assessment and filing such notice with the District Court within ten {10) days after service upon the Mayor or City Manager; however, no appeal may be taken as to the amount of any individual assessment unless a written objection signed by the affected property owner is filed with the City Manager prior to the assessment hearing or presented to the presiding officer at the hearing.

Persons who are 65 years of age or older or are permanently and totally disabled may make application for a deferral of assessments to be levied against homestead property if a hardship can be established pursuant to Minnesota Statute 435.193 through 435.195 and the provisions and guidelines of the City of Shoreview Resolution No. 75-120. Assessment deferral forms are available at the Shoreview City Hall. BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL /s/ Brad Martens, City Manager

Published two times in the Shoreview Press on September 24 and October 8, 2024.

CITY OF SHOREVIEW, MINNESOTA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS PURSUANT TO MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 469.1813

Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Shoreview, Minnesota (the City), will meet at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 21, 2024, at the City Hall, 4600 Victoria Street North, to conduct a public hearing on the proposal that the City abate property taxes levied by the City on the property identified in Exhibit A hereto.

The total amount of the taxes proposed to be abated by the City on the property for up to a 15-year period is estimated to be not more than $3,100,000. The City Council will consider the property tax abatement to finance improvements to and construction of recreational facilities at the City’s Commons Park located at 4600 Victoria Street North and Bobby Theisen Park located at 3575 Vivian Ave. in the City (the “Project”), The City proposes to issue general obligation tax abatement bonds in an amount not to exceed $3,100,000 to finance the Project.

POLITICAL BRIEF

Area legislators condemn demonstrations

Vadnais Heights and Shoreview area legislators came together to respond to a group that gathered to demonstrate on an Interstate 694

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Century College to host legislative listening session

Minnesota State leaders are preparing for the 2025 legislative session by touring the state and listening to the priorities, concerns and thoughts of key constituents. The insights shared during these sessions will inform the fiscal year 2026 – 2027 biennial budget request that the Board of Trustees will submit to the state in November 2024.

overpass in Vadnais Heights on Sept. 21. Sen. Heather Gustafson , Sen. Tou Xiong, Sen. John Marty, Rep. Brion Curran, Rep. Jamie Becker-Finn, Rep. Peter Fischer, and Representative Kelly Moller issued the following statement: “We strongly condemn the hate-filled

Local stakeholders have an opportunity to voice their perspectives at an upcoming session at Century College. Community members are encouraged to participate in the session from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, at the East Campus, Lincoln Mall to ensure the needs and priorities of Century College and the surrounding community are represented.

For more information, visit century. edu.

EXHIBIT A PARCELS PROPOSED TO BE ABATED

Questions regarding this matter may be referred to Fred Espe, City Finance Director, at (651) 490-4600. EXHIBIT A PARCELS PROPOSED TO BE ABATED

143023410001 143023410013 143023410039 143023410064 143023410089 143023420024

143023440006 143023410014 143023410040 143023410065 143023410090 143023420025

143023440005 143023410015 143023410041 143023410066 143023420001 143023420026

143023440003 143023410016 143023410042 143023410067 143023420002 143023420027 143023440002 143023410017 143023410043 143023410068 143023420003 143023420028 143023440001 143023410018 143023410044 143023410069 143023420004 143023420029 143023440026 143023410019 143023410045 143023410070 143023420005 143023420030 143023440025

143023420010 143023420035

143023420011 143023420036

143023410032 143023410058 143023410083 143023420018 143023440014 143023410007 143023410033 143023410059 143023410084 143023420019 143023440015 143023410008 143023410034 143023410060 143023410085 143023420020 143023440016 143023410009 143023410035 143023410061 143023410086 143023420021 143023440017 143023410010 143023410036 143023410062 143023410087 143023420022 143023440030 143023410011 143023410037 143023410063 143023410088 143023420023 143023440031 143023410012 143023410038

BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

/s/ Fred Espe, City Finance Director

Published one time in the Shoreview Press on September 24, 2024.

CITY OF SHOREVIEW

NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT OF AERATION SYSTEM

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:

Notice is hereby given that the City of Shoreview will commence operation of the pond aeration system located within the Shoreview Community Center Pond the week of October 28, 2024.

The Shoreview Community Center Pond is located northeast of the Shoreview Community Center, which is located at 4580 Victoria Street North in Shoreview, Minnesota.

Published two times in the Shoreview Press on September 24 and October 8, 2024.

MOUNDS VIEW PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MOUNDS VIEW SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SUMMARY, AUGUST 27, 2024

Meetings take place at the District Center in Shoreview (4570 Victoria Street N). Complete minutes available upon request at the District Center.

2024-25 District Operational Plan

4859-7501-8203\1

The Board approved the 2024-25 District Operational Plan (DOP) as presented by Superintendent Chris Lennox. The DOP is the annual administrative work plan of the District and has been developed by the Superintendent and Cabinet. It is directly related to the District’s vision and to the School Board’s strategic directions for the year. The 202425 DOP has three priority areas and seven total goals. The 2024-25 DOP can be viewed on the website.

Transportation service agreements

Bernice Humnick, executive director of business services, presented transportation service agreements with American Student Transportation and Metropolitan Transportation Network Incorporated. The Board approved service agreements for two contract years, 2024-25 and 2025-26, commencing on August 1, 2024 and ending July 31, 2026. 2024-25 enrollment update

Bernice Humnick, executive director of business services, presented an enrollment update for the 2024-25 school year. Enrollment projections indicate 11,319 students are currently enrolled and expected to attend Mounds View Public Schools this fall. This would represent an increase of more than 200 students compared to last fall. Enrollment data will be monitored through the start of the school year. A chart of currently projected enrollments by school and grade canbe found on the website.

Readiness for school opening

Superintendent Chris Lennox gave an update on the District’s readiness for the 2024-25 school year. Lennox highlighted completed maintenance and construction projects at various buildings, as well as updated members on the hiring and preparedness of staff. Lennox also highlighted a geothermal well project being completed at Irondale High School as part of the District’s commitment to clean energy.

Summer school and summer work by teachers

Angie Peschel, executive director of curriculum & instruction, Karl Brown, director of community education and Bobbie Olson, Area Learning Center principal, highlighted summer curriculum and staff development projects that were undertaken this summer, as well as learning and enrichment opportunities provided to students through Community Education. The presentation can be viewed on the website.

Updates

The Board shared updates on their activities and participation in events and committees around the District.

Thank you

The Board accepted with appreciation gifts from Becky Hepola – Travelers Company Match, Jody Handelsman – 3M volunteer match, Abbott Lab, Land O’Lakes Inc., Culver’s St. Anthony’s, United Health Group – Benevity, Wells Fargo Community Care Grants Program, Carol Frey, Renee Horsman, Carly McEathron, Vicki Carver, Jen Leach, Sarah Schnarr, Lisa Simms, Rebecca Jones, Elizabeth Robertson, Renee Miller, David Bleskachek, Tom Bondhus, Carley Foundry - Jordan Carley, Ramona Holmes, Frederick Kaiser, Richard and Sylvia Rog, Kathleen Willette, Julie Borris, Jennifer and Brian Bradway, Robert and Janet Calander, Kathryn and Wayne Damerow Foundation, Robert Linstrand, Peter and J.E. Mucha, Quanex Foundation and Robert and Shelley Roe.

A look ahead

September 12, 5 p.m., work session

September 17, 7 p.m., regular meeting (6:30 p.m. comments to the Board)

Published one time in the Shoreview Press on September 24, 2024.

demonstration today that took place in Vadnais Heights. This display of racism and xenophobia does not represent our community, and we will not tolerate any group promoting such violence and bigotry.

We denounce any ideology or group

Salvation Army kicks off coat drive

The Salvation Army has launched its annual “Coats for Kids” campaign to collect warm weather gear for local children in need. The public can help by donating new or gently used coats for children and youth of all ages—as well as winter accessories like hats, mittens, gloves, boots and snow pants. The Coats For Kids drive is running through Saturday, Oct. 5.

that seeks to dehumanize people based on their race, ethnicity, religion or any other identity. We stand together against hatred in any form and are committed to building a community where everyone feels safe and valued.”

Coats and winter gear can be dropped off at Salvation Army Division Headquarters, 2445 Prior Avenue N., Roseville, or at any of their service center locations, including the Maplewood Salvation Army, located at 2080 Woodlynn Avenue, or at any Livea Weight Control Center in the Twin Cities. For more information or to make a cash donation, go to GiveCoats.org.

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024

Sue Denkinger

Age: 69 City of residence: Shoreview

Occupation: Shoreview Mayor (Retired from Thomson Reuters)

List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:

• Mayor of Shoreview since 2022 City Council Member 2016-2022

• Lake Johanna Fire Board member 2021-2024

Paul Gardner

Age: 56 City of residence: Shoreview

Occupation: Administrator, Minnesota

Clean Water Council

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• Minnesota Water Steward and Water Conservation Advisor

• Volunteer Board Chair, Recycling Association of Minnesota

• Member of Shoreview’s Energy Action Team with Xcel Energy

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. Shoreview is a well-run city led by elected and appointed officials who work well with others and get things done unlike the dysfunctional situations seen in many other cities. I would like to continue that tradition of competent leadership. We must also maintain our status as a safe and welcoming community

Shelly Myrland

Age: 58 City of residence: Shoreview

Occupation: Banking Industry, Sr. VP

List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:

• Current Board member of NYFS Currently serve on Shoreview City Council Past VP of Shoreview EDA (Economic Development Authority)

Tara Jebens Singh

Age: 53 City of residence: North Oaks

Occupation: Graduate Student

List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:

• President and CEO of Northeast Youth & Family Services

• Adult Programs Coordinator at White Bear Lake Area Schools

• Board Member of the Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation (VHEDC)

SHOREVIEW MAYOR

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. 1) Economic development to keep city taxes low, support local businesses and create jobs; 2) Continued creation of housing opportunities for both new and existing residents, including affordable housing options; 3) Focus on quality of life for residents, particularly in the areas of public safety, sustainability and community engagement.

Q. If elected, how will you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. Continued focus on increasing public engagement through social media, neighborhood nights to unite, continued outreach to residents inviting them to participate in council meetings and to become members of advisory committees and commissions, continue neighborhood meetings on development

SHOREVIEW CITY COUNCIL

for everyone. Extreme weather events and climate change in general are driving up costs for cities and their residents, including the need for expanded stormwater infrastructure, raising the elevation of low-lying streets like Gramsie Road, paying higher insurance rates due to more weather-related claims, and heat stress that can increase utility bills and threaten our health. I would like to lead on this topic by identifying and reducing these risks and carrying out the city’s new Energy Action Plan (developed with Xcel Energy) that can save us all an estimated $2.3 million by 2030.

Q. If elected, how will you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. Following local government can be frustrating because of convoluted (but necessary) legal requirements. No one wants to sit around a dull meeting every other Monday night to figure out what is going on! I want to keep residents posted about what is coming down the pike. That can build support for good ideas and avoid conflict that arises due to misunderstanding of the process. Helping residents, businesses, and our other institutions identify the right time to chime with their ideas would be a priority. Social media can be a snake pit, but the

Q. What are your top three priorities for the city?

A. Keeping our city safe by maintaining good relationships and contracts with our fire and police partners. Strategic and thoughtful redevelopment that lifts the city up by creating new jobs and providing more housing options for all stages of life and levels of income.

Keeping the status quo of beautiful public spaces, a vibrant community center and trails that serve a variety of outdoor activities.

Q. If elected, how will you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. Encouraging residents to attend council meetings, apply to be a member of one of our nine committees that interests them

RAMSEY COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Background: I grew up in rural Wisconsin, the daughter of an engineer and a nurse. At Hamline University, I met RJ, my husband of thirty-one years. We raised two sons who attended Roseville Area Schools. I earned a Master’s of Planning from the Humphrey Institute and a Master’s of Human Development from Fielding Graduate University where I am pursuing a doctorate in Organizational Development and Change. Professionally, I have worked in public policy, wellness, education, equity, older adult and mental health programs.

Q. What are your top three priorities for the county?

A. Living in Ramsey County for thirty-five years, my family and I have benefitted from public transportation, schools, parks, libraries and many other programs. As a family caregiver, I learned to navigate complex health and human service systems. Along the way, I met other families facing their own struggles.

These lived experiences inform my advocacy for quality, accessible, affordable and culturally responsive services. My professional mission is building community capacity to meet the needs of its members while building member capacity to meet the needs of the community. I affectionately call this the “Big Work.” My top priorities for the county are: Supporting and improving health and human services for youth, families, and elders; Building safe, livable communities with affordable housing, accessible public transit, a thriving economy, and well-maintained public facilities, parks, and libraries; while exercising

• Responsible stewardship of Ramsey County’s financial, infrastructure, technological, and natural resources.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. Bringing people together for the “Big Work” starts with listening, learning and building relationships. People deserve representatives who understand their communities, are informed about their issues, and center their voices in decision-making. I have demonstrated an informed, pragmatic leadership style built on honoring wisdom from individuals’ lived experiences, compassionate listening to diverse viewpoints, inclusive community engagement, continuous learning with content experts, and building collaborative partnerships.

As a County Commissioner, I will continue to regularly spend significant time in community, share information in a timely way, seek broad input, ask who is missing from discussions and be transparent in decision-making. Over the

projects, hold office hours and to inform residents of both ongoing city events, services, projects and developments that may affect or interest them.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. The City Council should continue to focus on housing policies and grants that can provide a variety of housing options to new and existing residents, including affordable housing. It’s also important to look at strategic development opportunities to retain and help our local businesses thrive. Public safety costs have risen markedly for many cities which makes it important to access grants and other ways in which to keep city taxes low while continuing to provide quality services and amenities to residents.

right digital tools used wisely can allow residents to chime in online! Some residents may recall that as a legislator years ago, I kept a blog about what issues were coming before me and who was bending my ear. Hundreds of constituents used to follow it and share thoughts with me. I’d like to do something similar.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. Life is pretty good in Shoreview right now. Risks outside our control could change that. Those factors can include weather patterns mentioned above; changing market conditions like remote work that has emptied out corporate office buildings; retaining good talent for north metro employers with housing people can afford and the amenities our city provides; and an aging population that wants to age in place in their house or have safe and accessible alternatives. My role would be to join my colleagues and city staff in keeping our eyes on the horizon for these changes so that we can adapt and stay the best community we can be. I am especially interested in having our new housing units and commercial property consider “futureproofing” by electrifying buildings with connections for heat pumps, solar, EV charging, and induction cooking.

and consider participating in the Citizens’ Leadership Academy to learn more about the city.

Q. What can the City Council do in the next five years to help the city prosper?

A. Continue with open meeting discussions for redevelopment opportunities and ideas. Be open minded with the community’s best interest at heart. Rely on our city staff’s expertise to provide unbiased and accurate information based on the facts, city code and the law so we can make informed decisions. Trust the process and our committee’s input.

last year, I have met with hundreds of District 1 residents, toured local businesses and organizations, participated in community events, and strengthened relationships with area leaders. I invite everyone to complete a short District 1 survey at https://www.tara-jebens-singh.com/join-us to share their priorities for Ramsey County.

Q. What can the County Board do in the next five years to help the county prosper?

A. The county board should develop, evolve, and coordinate policies and programs that better support children, families, and elders - specifically for individuals living with disabilities and mental illness, encouraging aging within community, workforce development, and public safety. Transportation and social services should be more available and accessible throughout Ramsey County, including the northern suburbs.

The county board can advance productive collaboration toward the mindful development of Rice Creek Commons. Considerations must include community concerns and visions; regional needs for affordable housing, transportation, green space, and business development; forward-thinking environmentally sound designs; and economic feasibility.

The board can maintain the county’s AAA bond rating by sustaining a vibrant local economy, strong budgeting practices, and smart investments in infrastructure and technology. Areas of improvement include organizational realignment to provide more timely, efficient, and responsive service; better stakeholder communication, and meaningful community involvement. Together, we can create communities where everyone can contribute and thrive.

Kelly Moller (DFL)

Age: 51

City of residence: Shoreview

Occupation: State Representative and Prosecutor

List 3 most recent civic involvement

roles:

• State Representative first elected in 2018 and current Chair of the Public Safety Committee Prosecutor and victims’ rights advocate for over 20 years

VOTERS’ GUIDE 2024

MN HOUSE DISTRICT 40A

• Community volunteer in youth sports, church, Mounds View Public Schools, and Shoreview’s Public Safety Committee

Q. What are your top three priorities for the state?

A. Gun violence prevention: Gun violence is the leading cause of death of children in the U.S. I support laws to make sure that people who shouldn’t have guns don’t have access to them. While the DFL majority passed criminal background checks and red flag laws, Minnesota needs to improve its safe storage

Curtis Johnson (DFL)

Paul Wikstrom (R)

Age: 62 City of residence: Shoreview

Occupation: Engineering Manager

List 3 most recent civic involvement roles:

• President and board member North Suburban Soccer Association

• High school booster club board member and president

• Ramsey County Community Emergency Response Team Member (CERT)

Q. What are your top three priorities for the state?

A. Make Minnesota more affordable. The legislature increased spending by 40% in the last cycle. If the legislature had returned the $18B surplus, it would have returned $3,000 per individual; $12,000 per family. This could have paid for your gas and groceries. I will help you keep your money in your wallet! Stop the rising crime rates and make our communities safer. Minnesota’s crime rate has risen above the national

Quick Links:

View the elections home at  mnvotes.gov

law and require stolen guns to be reported.

Public education: I will continue to make sure our schools have the resources needed to provide for all students, including students with disabilities, students with mental health needs and English language learners.

Reproductive Freedom: While the DFL majority passed a law to ensure access to abortion, birth control, and fertility treatments, we cannot roll back protections as other states have done. I will work hard to ensure that politicians don’t interfere with a personal decision that a woman makes about reproductive healthcare.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. As a State Representative, I have had thousands of conversations with constituents either at the doors, on the phone, or via email. My favorite bills to work on are those that have been constituent driven. For example, this year I worked with a community member who told me how an outdated law was preventing the hiring of willing workers at his company. I successfully passed a bill to update the law in a way that benefits both employees and employers. I worked with another constituent to create more opportunities for retirement savings

MN HOUSE DISTRICT 40B

Q. What are your top three priorities for the state?

A. Ensuring that we provide the best education for all students in the state, protecting our environment by fighting for good green jobs and clean energy, and creating access to housing for all including seniors aging in place, first time home buyers, and those who struggle to afford a safe place to live.

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. As a school board member, I made sure I was at every school event and every public event to be accessible and available. As your representative, I will continue to be present in the community while holding regular town halls (in person and on zoom) to ensure the residents of 40B know I’m there for them and to bring their ideas and needs to St. Paul.

average. Roseville has the third highest crime rate of nearby cities behind Minneapolis and St. Paul. Let’s support law enforcement and ensure that law enforcement is fully funded AND supported.

Bring academic proficiency back to public education. Since 2019, under Governor Walz: reading proficiency is down 16%, math proficiency is down 17%, science proficiency is down 23%. Mississippi’s fourth grade reading proficiency is higher than Minnesota’s! And Minnesota spends $6,000 more per student than Mississippi!

Q. If elected, how would you involve the public in making major decisions?

A. I will involve the public by listening to their needs and concerns. I will be available to support and advocate for the public. I will use public input to inform my analysis and legislative decisions. My agenda will align with the needs of our district. I will provide every possible opportunity to provide the public with access to my official activities and duties. Most importantly, I will work tirelessly to bring TRANSPARENCY to the legislative process.

I have heard too many stories of residents who feel that they do not have a voice and are note being heard by their civic or state leadership. The political leadership in Minnesota needs to

Register to vote or update your registration at  mnvotes.gov/ register

New districts explained

Anoka County Commissioner District 3 District 3 includes the cities of Lexington, Circle Pines, Lino Lakes, Centerville, Columbus and Linwood Township.

Request an absentee ballot at  mnvotes.gov/ absentee

House District 32B District 32B includes the cities of Lexington, Columbus, Ham Lake and Blaine.

for those who care for family members with disabilities. Whether you agree with me or not about a bill, please continue to reach out to me! I also encourage the public to sign up for my e-updates that I send when the legislature is in session. The town halls that I host are mentioned in those as well.

Q. If elected, what legislation do you plan to support during your term and why?

A. I have already begun working with a constituent on issues related to access to and the quality of senior care at assisted living facilities. As Chair of the Public Safety Committee, I will continue to work on gun violence prevention, recruitment and retention of law enforcement and reducing systemic racial disparities in our criminal justice system. While we passed legislation to reduce costs of life-saving medications, I will always fight for legislation that prioritizes affordable, quality health care over the profits of insurance companies and big Pharma. The health of our environment is also a priority, and I will continue working to address climate change and ensure clean water and air in Minnesota. I work in a bipartisan manner – my comprehensive public safety bill passed the House floor with unanimous support – and I will continue to look for common ground whenever possible.

Q. If elected, what legislation do you plan to support during your term and why?

A. I will work to invest in our future by advocating for increased funding for proven programs that help kids learn to read like LETRS training and the AVID program which readies first generation students for college or careers. I will push to lower class sizes by freeing up funding. I would also support legislation to pass the Minnesota Health Plan, to ensure healthcare is accessible and affordable for all Minnesotans. I will work to create incentives for local businesses to expand in our community while moving towards green jobs and clean energy.

stop taking the residents for granted! If elected, I will represent the district!

Q. If elected, what legislation do you plan to support during your term and why?

A. Continue to reduce the tax burden on residential properties. Growing the commercial footprint will spread out the cost of running the city, lessening the burden on individual homeowners. Fiscal responsibility is important in a smaller city with a tight budget.

Work on finding new avenues of communication with residents and businesses. Keeping people informed and listening to their ideas and concerns is paramount. Social media and continuous enhancement to the city website are great tools. Use the city committees and commissions to continually update the city’s guiding documents and programs. Attracting business and residential developments that enhance and complement Centerville is key to future growth. Change is inevitable, however guided change with purpose is key. Explore using tools such as joint power agreements to share in costs of services with other cities, especially with public safety. As the price of vehicles and equipment increases, JPA’s may be a good option.

View a sample ballot at  mnvotes.gov/ myballot

House District 36A District 36A includes the cities of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Centerville, North Oaks and White Bear Township.

Find your polling place at  mnvotes.gov/ pollfinder

Senate District 36 District 36 includes the cities of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, Centerville, North Oaks, Vadnais Heights, White Bear Lake and White Bear Township.

Amber, Willow, Raven Aloe

Charlie Copper Fiona

Gracie May Mars Morgan Nala, Dorito, Luna, Cali Percy

Rory

Rubii

Rudy Sophia

Mounds View students named semifinalists for National Merit Scholarship

Seniors Rahee Kim, Isabella Kunc and Isabel Li from Mounds View High School have been chosen as National Merit Scholar semifinalists.

Over 1.3 million juniors in 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The nationwide pool of semifinalists, representing less than 1 percent of

Irondale Marching Knights find success

The Irondale High School Marching Knights placed first in Class A in the

U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

To become a finalist, a semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, where they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership activities, employment and honors and awards received.

All National Merit Scholarship winners will be selected from a group of 15,000 finalists. Winners will be announced beginning in April 2025 and conclude in July 2025.

The group was also named the Grand Champion of the State Fair Parade. This means that they received the highest score out of all the bands who participated this year.

Therapists

CALENDAR BRIEFS

Touch-a-truck and

garage sale Oct. 5

kids

There will be a touch-a-truck event and a kids garage sale held at the Shoreview Community Center in the lower-level parking lot from 9 a.m.noon on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Kids will be able to check out the multiple trucks used by the city at the touch-a-truck event. Vehicles will include a snowplow, dump truck and more.

At the garage sale, kids will be able to rent a table to sell their old toys, games, books and sporting goods. Registration is required by Sept. 27. Kids can register through the Shoreview Parks and Recreation catalog.

COUNTY BRIEF

Ramsey County hosts Fix-it Clinic

Ramsey County will host a Fix-it Clinic from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Ramsey County Library in Roseville. Items will be accepted till 12:30 p.m.

The Shoreview Community Center is located at 4580 Victoria St. N.

Residential shredding event set at McCullough Park

Shoreview residents can bring up to five banker boxes or grocery bags of documents to be securely shredded at McCullough Park from 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5. Participants should enter from westbound County Road I. Crews will be on site to unload vehicles and documents will be shredded on site by a mobile shredding company.

At Fix-It Clinics, residents bring in small household appliances, clothing, electronics and more to receive free guided assistance from volunteers with repair skills to disassemble, troubleshoot and fix items.

The Ramsey County Library in Roseville is located at 2180 Hamline Ave. N.

The Irondale High School Marching Knights took first at the 2024 Minnesota State Fair Parade.

2024 Minnesota State Fair Parade.

Shoreview residents, businesses, receive Green Community Awards

The Environmental Quality Committee announced the winners of this year’s Green Community Awards. The winners were recognized by Mayor Denkinger and the Shoreview City Council at the most recent City Council meeting.

The winners of the 2024 Green Community Awards are:

• Heather Vassilev converted the turfgrass on her property to native plants, benefitting water quality and wildlife.

• Tom Warner implemented

numerous renewable-energy and energy-efficient projects on his property, such as installing solar panels, smart outlets and LED lighting, and converting vehicles and lawn equipment to electric.

The recipients of these awards have shown commitment to projects and practices that will help improve water quality, increase native habitat and reduce waste in the Shoreview community.

Madeline Dolby

LET’S DO MEDICARE TOGETHER

Get the Medicare answers you need and learn about Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota plans that can help fill gaps in coverage at a free, no obligation workshop. Reserve your spot today. For additional workshop dates and locations, visit bluecrossmn.com/2024Worshops

Shoreview Community Ctr 4580 Victoria Street N Shoreview, MN 55126

Saturday, October 19

9 a.m, 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Rosevillle Anpétu Téĉa Education Center 1910 County Road B West Roseville, MN 55113 Friday, Ocotber 11, 2 p.m.

Revea Baker (651) 395-4888, TTY 711 revea.baker@bluecrossmn.com bluecrossmn.com/Revea

Blue Cross offers PPO, Cost and PDP plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in these Blue Cross plans depends on contract renewal. Plans are available to residents of the service area. A salesperson will be present with information and applications. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings, call (651) 395-4888, TTY 711.

Y0138_062024_P02_M

BRAUSENAUTO.COM

Since our inception in 1969, we’ve proudly served the St. Paul, Roseville, Arden Hills, Shoreview, North Oaks, New Brighton, Little Canada, and surrounding areas with dedication and passion. Our commitment to automotive care excellence has made Brausen Repair the hallmark of quality in the area, and we couldn’t be more proud!

PHOTOS BY KRISTA BILLERBECK | CONTRIBUTED

Tom Warner (right) has implemented numerous renewable-energy and energyefficient projects throughout his property.

Heather Vassilev (right) planted native plants, which benefit wildlife, on her property.

Jessica Turtle Creates a Community Mural at WBCA

This summer, White Bear Center for the Arts collaborated with celebrated public artist and WBCA teaching artist Jessica Turtle to create a communitydriven mural installation. It’s in the name, but you wouldn’t believe the connections made over a community mural. Over the course of five days, Jessica was joined by over 100 people to paint on WBCA’s 14 x 43 foot, east-facing wall.

The motley crew included artists, students, WBCA staff members, board members, writers, and even a group of morticians.

On the first day, WBCA visitor Randy joined in on the fun. He had been viewing WBCA’s exhibitions with his mother in early September when he spotted Jessica gridding out the mural. After inquiring at the front desk, he stopped by on the first day of painting sessions and even brought his own ladder. Much of the water lily on the mural can be attributed to him. He painted for over 4 hours. It’s for reasons like this that Jessica is drawn to community murals

versus painting alone. “It makes it much less hollow,” she said. Though she identifies as a true introvert, the aspect of connecting with people through a community project feels fulfilling to her. “It restores my confidence, how easily so many different people can come together to work on something.”

The mural, which she calls a “montage mural,” is essentially a collage of images submitted by members of the WBCA community. The prompt went like this: “As you walk around White Bear Lake, stop and take a look. What do you see that celebrates art, inspires creativity, or connects people?” Over 130 photos were submitted of art center memories, White Bear Lake landmarks, and people making art. From those images, Jessica created

Upcoming Avenue of the Arts Events:

‘From Barry’: The Perfect Pop Songs of the Bee Gees

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Saturday, September 14, 7:30 PM

Mick Sterling presents his love letter to Barry Gibbs in this Bee Gees tribute concert.

Welcome Home: The Legacy of Carole King

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Sunday, September 15, 2:00 PM

Michelle Foster performs Carole King's hits and hidden gems.

a design full of color, movement, and creativity suited for an art center. “As a community art center, the exterior of our building should reflect the vibrant, creative work that’s happening inside,” Creative Services Director Sara Nephew said. “We wanted a mural that tells our story — one that embodies the range of mediums we offer, and the energy and heart that defines WBCA.”

How does Jessica coalesce over a hundred photographs to create a unifying image? “I never really know how I do it,” she laughs. She set out to design an intentional communal space centered on creativity and connection. The mural features art in the form of dancers, a sketchbook, and a paint palette. It’s also peppered with elements of nature essential to the White Bear Lake community.

Star of the North Jazz Orchestra

The Hanifl Performing Arts Center

Saturday, September 21, 7:30 PM

Star of the North Jazz Orchestra presents "All You Need Is Love: A Big Band Tribute to the Music of The Beatles" featuring vocalist Jen Burleigh-Bentz.

Writer’s Speak: An Open Mic Night for the Community

White Bear Center for the Arts

Thursday, October 3, 6:00-8:00 PM

All are welcome to come join your fellow writers and the White Bear Lake community for an open mic night. Share your latest work, test new ideas, or simply soak in the words around you. Bring an original piece to read that is under 5 minutes. Please register online at WhiteBearArts.org

For Jessica, the call for art has always been there. She’s been making murals from a very young age, starting at the age of 12 when she painted a mural in her closet. She was always drawn to large-scale projects, but with an interest in ecological awareness, she couldn’t get over the lack of sustainability in fine arts. She was caught up with the feeling that she was always just producing more. With a community mural, you’re working on an existing structure. “I’m not adding anything and it’s being used for a bigger purpose,” she said. Her mission aligned perfectly with what WBCA was looking for when searching for artists. “Jessica was the perfect choice for this project, not only because of her past involvement as a teaching artist [at WBCA], but also because of her impressive mural work and her leadership in public art, community engagement, and activism,” Sara says. “We’ve admired her work repeatedly and knew she would bring the community's vision to life.”

Next time you spot a community project of any kind, don’t hesitate to approach it. “People are always cautious but anyone can do it,” Jessica says. Whether you have experience or not, be a part of something bigger.

‘Light in Droplets’ Community Reception

White Bear Center for the Arts

Thursday, October 17, 6:30-8:30 PM

With over 350 members, the Minnesota Watercolor Society is one of the largest associations of watercolor artists in the Midwest. “Light in Droplets” is a non-juried show open to all active members.

Fall Community Day

White Bear Center for the Arts

Saturday, October 26, 1:00-3:00 PM

Visit White Bear Center for the Arts to celebrate fall with a day full of art. Compete in a pumpkin carving contest, give several art mediums a try, create make-and-take art projects, hear live music, and more. Costumes are welcome!

Shoreview City Council decides on a preliminary budget and tax levy

The city of Shoreview’s proposed preliminary tax levy for 2025 represents an increase in the levy of $1,061,916, or 6.63%. The changes to the levy were made at the Aug. 19 budget workshop with staff and City Council.

Included in the 6.63% figure is a 6.99% increase— or $1,119,416— in the general fund levy.

City Finance Director Fred Espe gave a rundown of some of the significant revenue and expenditure changes for 2025:

• There will be an increase in the city’s public safety contract of $564,592.

• There will be an increase in salaries and benefits of $505,138, including a $114,815 allowance resulting from a wage study.

• There will be a decrease in street renewal funds of $100,000, or 0.63%.

• There will be an increase in the Economic Development Authority (EDA) levy of 0.16%.

• There will be an increase in the Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) levy of $15,000.

The Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) levy is increasing by 4.84%. The combined general fund

levy and HRA levy will increase by $1,076,916, or 6.59%.

“The median-value home in Shoreview is increasing to $421,800 for 2025 (taxes),” said Espe. “That is a 1.2% increase over 2024.” This means that a median-valued home would see a city property tax increase of $28.97, or 2.2%.

Mayor Sue Denkinger noted that the wage study referenced in the report will compare Shoreview employees’ wages to other market rates in other surrounding cities.

City Council members voted in favor of the 2025 preliminary tax levy and budget. Once the preliminary levy is adopted and certified to the county, the council may decrease the levy, but cannot increase it. The annual truthin-taxation hearing is set for 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, in the City Hall Council Chambers.

The next Shoreview City Council meeting is at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at Shoreview City Hall, 4600 Victoria St. N., Shoreview.

Madeline Dolby

Lino Lakes weighs in on Wilkinson Waters concept

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

LINO LAKES — Wilkinson Waters LLC is proposing a development located on North Oaks Farm Inc. property. The parcels are located south of County Road J/ Ash Street/CSAH 32, west of Centerville Road/ CSAH 21 and north of Wilkinson Lake Boulevard.

The development contains four parcels totaling approximately 76 gross acres and comprises a mix of residential housing types and commercial development.

Wilkinson Waters LLC has submitted a land use application for a planned unit development (PUD) concept plan review.

City Planner Katie Larsen explained that North Oaks Company LLC submitted a PUD concept plan for review in September 2015. The concept plan included two parcels totaling 46 gross acres and consisted of a residential mix of single-family homes, twin homes and senior housing rentals totaling 136 to 161 housing units. The proposed development did not meet density requirements and did not move forward. This time around, the proposed land uses include approximately 33,000 square feet of commercial retail space; two, three-story 100-unit market rate multifamily buildings (including clubhouse, large communal green space and additional amenities); 34 rental townhome units; 22 for-sale townhome units; and one four-story, 100-unit senior living facility.

Larsen explained that the total number of housing units proposed is 356. Because there are both shoreland overlay district restrictions in play plus the city’s comprehensive plan, density gets a bit complicated, but Larsen said essentially it would come down to a max unit count of 348 units. If the proposal included some affordable housing units, that density could go up slightly.

The residential development transitions from townhomes near Wilkinson Lake and Ash Street to the apartments adjacent to Centerville Road. The senior living building would also be near Wilkinson Lake. Trails, sidewalks and stormwater ponds are included throughout the development. Wilkinson Waters is proposing approximately 4.1 acres of commercial development in the southeast quadrant of the site adjacent to Centerville Road and Wilkinson Lake Boulevard. The concept plan shows

three commercial building pads ranging from 9,100 to 10,850 square feet each.

Larsen said city staff would like to see the developer move the senior building closer to Centerville Road. “That would provide a better transition from the lessintense (density) townhomes near the lake and wetlands to the higher-intense apartments near the arterial roads,” She explained.

Under a PUD, the developer is granted some flexibility but in return must provide some public benefit. Wilkinson Lakes is requesting flexibility when it comes to building height for both the senior building and two apartment buildings. Buildings within the shoreland district have a maximum permitted height of 36 feet. The developer is also seeking flexibility to offer 550-square-foot studio apartments, whereas a minimum of 700 square feet would typically be required.

In return, Wilkinson Lakes plans to offer more open space, a strong greenway/trail corridor, a variety of lot sizes and home types, preservation of wetlands, lifecycle housing and a commercial component. Larsen said that 78% of the development is proposed to be open space.

If the development moves past the concept level, Larsen said the city would require an environmental assessment worksheet due to its proximity to lakes and wetlands. A traffic study would also be required.

Larsen compared the project to the Lyngblomsten project located on the corner of Hodgson Road and County Road J. “It’s an example of what our gateway (entrance) could look like … it took a lot of work to get there,” she said.

Planning Commission member Perry Laden said he would be in favor of the studio apartments and that he didn’t have a problem with the proposed building heights. “With this being a gateway and the retail there, we would be looking for a higher standard of architecture,” he said.

Planning Commission member Isaac Wipperfurth added that it would be important for the gateway to contain commercial. “I don’t think we would want to bend on that,” he said. For that reason, he said he would prefer not to see the senior building relocated closer to the arterial streets. “I’m afraid that is going to cause some of that commercial development area to be minimized or it is going to push some of these larger

buildings closer to the single-family residential, which I also am opposed to.”

He said he also had a problem with the proposed density. “We are cramming a lot into this little site,” he said. “I would like to see about 100 units less.”

Planning Commission member Nate Vojtech added, “This is a really small area that may be too dense already … I think that is a lot of people to put in a little space.” He also commented that he disagreed with moving the senior building closer to the street. “It seems backwards to me.”

Vojtech suggested that having all of the city’s “tallest buildings” located right at gateway entrances might not be the approach the city wants to take.

Planning Commission members Patrick Kohler and Suzy Guthmueller said they liked the proposed location of the senior building. “I think it would tie well into what is already existing there with the senior home already there,” Guthmueller said.

Mark Houge, president of North Oaks Company, responded, “Waverly Gardens is the vision for what we want to try to relate this to, so it looks like it is part of the same development even though they

are in two different cities.” He added that they would prefer to see the senior building be three stories, but “to make the economics work,” Waverly Gardens would like to see a four-story building. Houge explained that if the proposal moves forward, several partners would be involved, including a partner for the market-rate apartments, Waverly Gardens for the senior housing, a partner for the for-sale housing units and another partner for the commercial retail. “We are typically land developers, but we are venturing into this,” he said. Kohler wanted to know more about the timeline for construction and project phasing. Houge explained that they would likely start with the apartment building, which could take up to 18 to 24 months, followed by the townhomes. The commercial would be last. “We have to get the rooftops there to support the commercial,” he said.

The City Council will have a chance to offer feedback on the concept plan next month.

The preliminary tax levy shows an increase in the levy of $1,119,416, or 6.63%.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

A rendering of the proposed three-story, 100-unit multifamily building.

The proposed land use includes almost 33,000 square feet of commercial retail space and mutliple residential buildings.

Mounds View Police Department participates in coat drive

The Mounds View Police Department will continue to participate in the Harbor Light Center annual Winter Warm Up Coat Drive beginning in October.

New and gently used coats, hat, gloves and winter items can be brought to City Hall and placed in a collection bin near the entrance until the end of November.

Mounds View City Hall is located at 2401 County Hwy 10.

Spring

Lake Park, Blaine and Mounds View Fire Department hosts open house

The Spring Lake Park, Blaine and Mounds View Fire Department will host an open house from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at Aquatore Park, 9191 Lincoln St. NE., Blaine. This a free, family-friendly event. There will be

various fire demonstrations throughout the day.

For more information, call 763-7864436 or visit sbmfire.org.

Local Mounds View man pleads guilty after investigation

A Mounds View man has pleaded guilty to a felony charge stemming from an undercover operation conducted by the Central Minnesota Human Trafficking Task Force.

According to the criminal complaint filed in Stearns County District Court, Zachary Meyer, 46, and an undercover police officer posing as a 14-year-old girl began chatting online in December 2023. Those conversations took place in an online forum.

Months later, court records indicate the conversations turned sexual and were initiated by Meyer. The charges also allege Meyer sent the undercover officer a pornographic video clip. Meyer was arrested and charged with the solicitation of a child, describing sexual

conduct with a child using electronics and distributing sexual material to a child through electronics. He pleaded guilty to the describing sexual conduct with a child charge and will be sentenced on Nov. 8.

Mounds View driver killed in truck crash

According to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, a person was killed in a dump truck crash in Mounds View around 12:45 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10, near the intersection of Highway 10 and I-35W.

Investigators say the driver lost control of the dump truck, went off the road and crashed into some trees, which caused the truck to catch on fire. Bystanders tried to get the driver out of the cab but were unsuccessful. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

Drivers legs amputated after Shoreview crash

A driver involved in a vehicle crash

in Shoreview had both legs amputated after being taken to the hospital by paramedics. Footage shows that around 12:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, law enforcement was investigating the aftermath of the crash on Hodgson Road. Minnesota State Patrol troopers are conducting a crash reconstruction investigation to find out more. Details on the driver have not been released.

15-year-old arrested after making online

threats

A 15-year-old has been arrested after reportedly posting threats to Irondale High School on social media, according to the New Brighton Police Department. Community members brought attention to the threatening post. The case will be forwarded to the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office Youth Justice Division. Police added that the school district has communicated with Irondale students, parents and staff about the incident.

North Metro homeowners share their yards for K-9 adventures

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Think of an Airbnb, but for dogs. That’s where Sniffspot comes in.

Dog owners are offering up their yards to other dogs.

Sniffspot’s founder, David Adams, lives with a leash-reactive and a dog-selective dog. He and his wife Rebecca were struggling to meet their pup Toshii’s basic needs in a city environment, as there was nowhere safe to let their guards down. Inspired by the idea of making things better for dogs, Adams put up a simple website and started crowdsourcing yards. Sniffspot has grown from there. Now Sniffspot operates in all 50 states.

Lin Shurtleff lives on the border of Hugo and Lino Lakes. She has offered up her 1-acre, fully fenced yard as a Sniffspot for about a month.

“I saw an ad on Facebook about renting out your yard. I clicked on it, and the more info I saw the more interested I got,” she explained. “It makes sense for us. (My husband and I) work from home and our dogs use the yard a good portion of the time but it would be a nice way to earn passive income.”

She has three dogs of her own, but thought, why not share their “sniffapalooza” with other dogs who might enjoy the space, but not be able to use dog parks?

“I know there’s a lot of people that would like to go to a dog park but don’t want to deal with the drama,” she said. “We have the perfect setup for it … why not share our yard with people who want to give their pups a chance to roam?”

And a sniffapalooza it is. In addition to roaming the yard, dogs will encounter chickens, sheep, goats, horses, miniature horses and donkeys and alpacas. Although many of the animals can be shy, an alpaca named Rusty is always first in line to greet new guests.

“Rusty is always up there in front making sure everything is okay. If it stays quiet enough, other animals will start coming forward,” Shurtleff explained. Kristen Peterson drives all the way from Rosemount so her two pups, Apollo and Boone can enjoy Schurtleff’s Sniffspot. “I love being able to have a unique place where I can let my dogs off leash where they are not distracted by other dogs,” she said. “I like that it is an acre fenced with other animals that they haven’t been around before.”

Since April, they have explored five Sniffspots around Minnesota.

Centerville resident Gina Schmittdiel has offered up her fenced-in backyard to dogs on Sniffspot since 2022. She learned about it from someone at church.

“She has a dog with anxiety,” Schmittdiel said, “and she was telling me about using Sniffspot. A light bulb kind of went off.” Her 10-year-old black Lab, Pepper, is also aggressive and can’t go to dog parks or doggy day care centers.

“We have a unique, really great backyard. I thought, (Pepper) doesn’t need (the yard 24/7), so we’ll share it.”

Sniffspot is designed for private play, so only the dogs that booked as a part of the reservation are allowed in the area during the booking. Host dogs are not allowed to be in the play area when guest dogs are visiting, and time buffers are built in to ensure that guests aren’t leaving and arriving at the same time.

Tamarind Knutson, of Lino Lakes, often brings her two pups, Alaska the Samoyed and Glacier the Shiba Inu, to Schmittdiel’s Sniffspot. Knutson says she brings her dogs to many spots, but they prefer the one in Centerville because it is only a mile from their home and has an abundance of shade.

“We live in a town home. We go on a lot of hikes with our dogs, but for long off-leash experiences, we prefer going to Sniffspots. My 3-year-old dog is very social, but she only likes to play with one or two dogs at a time, so places like dog parks get very overwhelming for her.”

Knutson learned about Sniffspot online around two years ago when she saw someone asking online how they could exercise their dogs while on a road trip. “I looked to see if there were any (Sniffspots) in the area, and there were,” she said.

Glacier and Alaska especially enjoy going to Schmittdiel’s spot when it snows. “They can play to their heart’s content,” Knutson said.

White Bear Township resident Amanda Rothstein has been a Sniffspot host for about a year. She follows a couple of dog influencers on Instagram and randomly stumbled across a post about a Sniffspot one day.

“I have a dog of my own, and I’m always looking for enrichment opportunities for her,” Rothstein said about her Australian shepherd mix, Maddie. She explained many of her guests who visit are folks who don’t have yards of their own, or they are older and not quite mobile enough to go on long walks with their dogs.

“It is a nice spot for folks to come, sit and relax and let their dogs play,” she explained. “It’s a good backyard for dogs and humans alike.”

Although she was a little hesitant to become a host at first, Rothstein said it has been an overall positive experience. Because a lot of her neighbors have dogs of their own, she is very open about the fact that visiting dogs might see other dogs.

“I always want to make sure I’m not impeding on my neighbors … I’ve been trying to balance being a good neighbor while being a good host,” she said.

To learn more about Sniffspot, visit www.sniffspot. com.

parks of 0.5 acre or more Dog water parks Fully fenced dog parks Dog hiking trails

Dog fields

Dog agility parks

AMANDA ROTHSTEIN | CONTRIBUTED More and more “Sniffspots” continue to pop up around the north metro.

SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Tundra and Twinkie pose for a photo with three alpacas at a Sniffspot located on the border of Lino Lakes and Hugo.

AMANDA ROTHSTEIN | CONTRIBUTED Kiwi enjoys a Sniffspot located in White Bear Township.

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impa ired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a gener ous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 844.220.9501 today!

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited talk, text and data for just $25/mo! The power of 3 5G networ ks, one low price! Call today and get the latest iPhone every year on us! 855.849.6621

GET DISH SATELLITE TV + INTERNET! Free in stall, free HDDVR upgrade, 80,000 on-demand movies plus limited time up to $600 In gift cards. Call toda y! 855.562.4309

SAFE STEP North America's #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Topof-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower pa ckage and $1,60 0 off for a limited time! Call today! Finan cing available. Call Safe Step 833.96 6.3882

I BUY OLD MUSIC and concert po sters, movie posters lobby card s and photos and pre-1970 comic books. 213/944-9601 streetsof2024@gmail.com

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 discriminat ion.” Familial status includes children under

Mustangs thump Rangers, fall to Stillwater

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

After two impressive conference wins, Mounds View had a chance to make a statement early in the football season with a game at Stillwater last Friday evening. However, an injury to quarterback Jacob Sampson early in the game hampered the Mustangs after they took a 14-7 lead, and they lost to the No. 10 ranked Ponies 33-14.

The Mustangs won at Forest Lake 31-7 the previous Friday, following a 28-6 win over White Bear Lake. They are 2-2 overall and 2-1 in the Suburban East Conference.

Mustangs 31, Forest Lake 7

The Mustang defense led the way with four interceptions and fumble recovery touchdown. Jonny Gale and Charlie Eggert each picked off two passes. Linebacker Joey Muhlstein raced 54 yards with a fumble recovery, opening a 28-0 lead.

The Mustangs took a 14-0 first quarter lead on touchdowns by Mitch Olson from 20 yards and Sampson from 21 yards. Sampson passed to Jack Dahl for an 11-yard score in the second quarter. Cooper Fellman booted

four extra points and a 36-yard field goal. Sampson was 8-for-20 for 53 yards and kept the ball eight times for 69 yards. Olson gained 50 yards in seven carries. Ben Arnold caught four passes for 32 yards. Forest Lake (2-2) had a 22-yard touchdown pass from Connor Johnson to Mack Jurkovich.

Stillwater 33, Mustangs 14 Long touchdown runs by each team, 20 seconds apart, got the game off to a rousing start before a huge homecoming crowd at Stillwater.

Emilio RosarioMatias broke away for a 70-yard touchdown on Stillwater’s first play from scrimmage.

Mounds View’s Godson Rufus-Okomharu countered with an 80yard sprint, tying the score 7-7.

The Mustangs came up with another big play two minutes later as Muhlstein blocked a punt and Olson recovered the ball in the end zone for a 14-7 lead. They would not score again.

With Sampson out, Gale took over and the Mustangs managed just 100 more yards and six first downs. Stillwater’s Ryan Silbernagel intercepted two overthrown passes. Rosario-Matias, just 5-foot-6 but powerful and shifty at 200 pounds, added touchdown runs of 20 and 16 yards, rolling up 189 yards in 30 carries. Landon Huber booted field goals of 41 and 28 yards. Their final touchdown was a 16-yard pass from Nick Kinsey to Joe Fredkove after a Mustang fumble.

Mustang girls 13th in multi-state Griak gala

The Mounds View girls placed 13th of 45 teams, and fifth among Minnesota teams, with Linnea Ousidgian seventh overall, in the Roy Griak Invitational, hosted by the University of Minnesota on Friday at their golf course in Falcon Heights.

There were Championship, Gold and Maroon races. The Mustangs were in the top division. Far out in front were Cardinal Gibbons of North Carolina with 94 points and Wayzata with 124. St. Paul Highland Park was third, Prior Lake fifth, St. Michael-Albertville sev-

enth and Hopkins 10th. Ella Hagen of Summitt, South Dakota, was champion in 18:02.

Ousdigian finished in 18:49, third among Minnesotans behind Wayzata’s Maddie Gullickson (fourth, 18:44) and Forest Lake’s Norah Hushagen (fifth, 18:47). The next four Mustangs finished in a pack: Cora Gentry 117th (21:07), Abigail Urriola 118th (21:08), Adela Peterson 119th (21:09) and Maya Francisco 121st (21:10). There were 429 runners.

Bruce Strand

Crockarell

Mounds View Tennis

Shae Crockarell has bolstered the Mounds View tennis lineup as a double’s specialist for four seasons. “She is an outstanding contributor in doubles,” coach Scott Sundstrom said. “She has multiple great wins this season, against Edina, Maple Grove, Elk River and Minnetonka.” A past state qualifier in doubles, Crockarell is 5-0 this year at No. 1 with Stella Fagerlee and 7-2 at No. 2 with Sofia Kostinovski, helping the No. 3 ranked Mustangs (10-3) pursue another conference title. Sundstrom added, “She is a positive, dedicated, natural-born leader.”

“Your Financial Partner”

4661 Highway 61 | White Bear Lake northstarbank.com | 651-429-4531

Mustang boys strong at meets

The Mounds View boys placed 12th of 44 teams overall, and sixth among Minnesota teams, in the huge Roy Griak Invitational hosted by the University of Minnesota on Friday at their golf course in Falcon Heights.

The Mustangs competed in the top race, the Championship division, against strong teams from several states. There were also Gold and Maroon races.

Leading the Mustangs were Casey Poppler in 37th place (16:51) and Owen Kalmes in 42nd (16:56). Their top five also included Joseph Cole 128th (17:45), Andrew Richter 137th (17:48) and Will Drury 168th (17:59) among 449 runners.

The five teams were from outof-state, led by Dowling Catholic (IA), Sioux Falls Lincoln (SD) and Stevens Point (WI). Top Minnesota teams were Edina placing sixth, Minnetonka seventh, Rosemount ninth, Wayzata 10th, Stillwater 11th and Mounds View 12th.

The Mustangs placed second out of 24 teams in the Metro Invitational Under the Lights meet at Flying Cloud in Eden Prairie. 14. Wayzata dominated with 61 points. Mounds View and Blaine each had 122 (the Mustangs won the tie-breaker),

Champlin Park 172 and White Bear Lake 194.  Poppler placed eighth (15:54), Kalmes 10th (16:07), Cole 23rd (16:34), Sam Geer 37th (16:51), Andrew Richter 45th (16:59), Will Drury 46th (17:00) and Hunter Miller 49th (17:03) among 200 runners.  In both races, Robert Mechura of the Mustangs’ conference rival, Roseville Area, was the individual winner by a wide margin.

Bruce Strand

This Week In

SPORTS

MUSTANGS SCOREBOARD

CROSS COUNTRY

• Results last 2 weeks

Mustang boys 2nd of 24 teams at Metro Invitational, Eden Prairie Mustang boys 12th of 44 teams, Championship division, Roy Griak Invitational, U of M golf course

Mustang girls 13th of 45 teams, Championship division, Roy Griak Invitational, U of M golf course

• Coming up Saturday, Oct. 5: boys, girls at Alexandria Invitational, 10 a.m.

FOOTBALL

• Results last 2 weeks

Mustangs 31, Forest Lake 7 Stillwater 34, Mustangs 13 Record

2-2 overall, 2-1 conference

• Coming up Friday, Sept. 27: Woodbury, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 4: at East Ridge, 7 p.m.

SOCCER, BOYS

• Results last 2 weeks

Mustangs 0, White Bear Lake 0 Forest Lake 2, Mustangs 1 Stillwater 2, Mustangs 0 Cretin-Derham Hall 3, Mustangs 0 Record

2-7-1 overall, 0-4-1 conference

• Coming up Thursday, Sept. 26: at Woodbury, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 28: at Mahtomedi, noon Tuesday, Oct. 1: at Roseville Area, 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3: East Ridge, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 5: at Spring Lake Park, 1 p.m.

SOCCER, GIRLS

• Results last 2 weeks

White Bear Lake 4, Mustangs 0 Mustangs 2, Forest Lake 0 Mustangs 2, Blaine 0 Stillwater 4, Mustangs 1 Mustangs 1, Cretin-Derham Hall 0 Record

6-4 overall, 3-2 conference

• Coming up

Thursday, Sept.26: at Woodbury, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 28: at Mahtomedi, 2 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 1: at Roseville Area, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 3: East Ridge, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 5: at Spring Lake Park, 11 a.m.

SWIMMING

Results last 2 weeks

Mustangs 100, Woodbury 86 Mustangs 102, Cretin-Derham Hall 82 Record

4-0 overall, 4-0 conference

Coming up

Thursday, Sept. 26: at Stillwater, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 3: Park, 6 p.m.

TENNIS

Results last 2 weeks

Mustangs 7, Roseville Area 0 Mustangs 4, Minnetonka 3

Mustangs 7, Park 0

Mustangs 7, Woodbury 0 Record 10-3 overall, 6-0 conference

• Coming up

Thursday, Sept. 26: at Irondale, 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30: Section 4AA opener, TBA

VOLLEYBALL

• Results last 2 weeks

Mustangs def. Spring Lake Park 25-21, 25-15, 22-25, 25-22

Mustangs def. Elk River 25-17, 28-26, 22-25, 25-22

Mustangs def. Forest Lake 25-22, 25-19, 25-23

Mustangs def. Cretin-Derham Hall 19-25, 25-23, 25-18, 25-22

Record

8-3 overall, 2-0 conference

• Coming up

Wednesday, Sept. 25: at Stillwater, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 1: White Bear Lake, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 3: at Park, Cottage Grove, 7 p.m Friday, Oct. 4: at St. Michael-Albertville tournament, 5 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 6: at St. Michael-Albertville tournament, 8 a.m.

BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED

Caleb Tyvoll (29) of the Mustangs drags down Emilo RosarioMatias after a 10-yard gain.

CONTRIBUTED

Casey Poppler (2733) and Owen Kalmes (2629) led Mounds View, placing 37th and 42nd, respectively, at the Roy Griak Invitational.

andArts Culture

EMERGING ARTIST: CYRUS DEGNEAU

IBY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

n the last nine months, 12-yearold Cyrus Degneau has been in five theatrical productions. He’s been a “blues” jay, an Aristocat, a Dr. Seuss creation, and Uncle Fester. Throughout October, he’ll be the title character of “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical.” With such a résumé growth spurt, one may be surprised that Degneau first tried out to conquer his fear.

“It was ‘101 Dalmatians.’ I thought about auditioning, but I was too nervous because I couldn’t think of, like, me on stage in front of a bunch of people,” Degneau remembered.

“And then while I was watching all my friends singing and dancing around the stage, I said to my mom, ‘I can do this.’”

Degneau was nervous for his first audition, but “the cast opened up as, like, a family. I just felt like theater was my calling.” Looking back, Degneau felt like the pieces were always there, revealing that he’s loved to sing since he could remember. While he was in his elementary school’s musical this past year, he feels that Children’s Performing Arts has helped him grow in his craft. “If you’re starting out and you’re really nervous, people will help you get through it and teach you about everything, take you under their wing,” Degneau assured. He also

thinks that theater has helped him in other areas of his life. “If you need to memorize something, because you memorize your lines. And also, acting can help social skills. So if you’re kind of shy, like, theater could help you with that,” he listed.

Going forward, Degneau has his sights set on New York. “I think it’d be really, really fun to be in a Broadway show. Like, I don’t care what the role is. I could be townperson number three in ‘Frozen,’” he revealed. Though, if he could pick any part, it’d be Olaf. After that, Degneau stated that his ultimate dream is “to do so many plays that I lose track.”

Five plays a year might just be the right pace to achieve that goal.

CHILDREN’S PERFORMING ARTS FALL MUSICAL ANYTHING BUT SQUARE(PANTS)

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Kids musicals are rarely described as “apocalyptic,” but the underwater denizens of Bikini Bottom in CPA’s upcoming “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical” find themselves facing off against an erupting volcano. Director Ruby Carlson explained that the worldending danger ironically makes the character of SpongeBob all the more joyful. “It will work out through the sheer power of positive

thinking,” she states. “As long as somebody has that drive, we can do better and we can move forward. You can do crazy things, like stop a volcano from erupting.”

12-year-old lead actor Cyrus Degneau believes that the message carries extra power because SpongeBob is relatable. “He’s very goofy,” Degneau noted. “And, like, everyone can have their goofy moments.” Degneau also emphasized that he imbues his performance of SpongeBob with his “own sense of wonder. I feel like that’s all I can do.”

Of course, SpongeBob has help from his brainiac friend, Sandy Cheeks, played by 12-year-old Clara Hall. “[Sandy’s] into science,” she described. “I’m super into science, too. She’s just confident, so I want to make her be kind of sure about things.” To climb the volcano, the pair of friends must rely on Patrick the Starfish, played by 13-year-old Tess Campbell. “I feel like Patrick is kind of a little oblivious to his surroundings,” Campbell noted. “But he’s definitely a very good friend.” Campbell

also confirmed that— despite an environmental catastrophe—the show is boatloads of fun, saying, “My face hurts after rehearsals because I smile so much.” Carlson noted that the cast can have fun because they are experienced. “I think it’s a huge testament to [CPA] that these kids keep coming back and that they want to keep coming back,” she said. “I mean, they work with different directors, they work with different production teams. … I think that it makes them really adaptable.” Another

EIGHTIES ATTIRE IS ADMIRED BUT NOT REQUIRED

BY LOGAN GION CONTRIBUTING WRITER

When Sharon Hanifl-Lee was looking to create a yearly fundraiser for Children’s Performing Arts, she faced a challenge. “We didn’t want it to feel like a stereotypical gala where you had to be in diamonds and pearls,” she stated, “Plus, with CPA, a lot of our patrons are parents … we wanted to make it fun, a reason why they would want to go out.”

Hence, every October, CPA hosts a

‘LIGHT IN DROPLETS’ COMMUNITY RECEPTION

Location: White Bear Center for the Arts

Date: Thursday, Oct. 17, 6:30-8:30 PM

Masque. This year’s theme is “Back to the 80s,” which CPA Board Chair Liz Andert called a “party for adults with a feel-good, fundraising twist.”

Hanifl-Lee notes that the food doesn’t fit the traditional gala fare, either. Instead of the usual chicken with some sauce, expect a mashed potato and nacho bar. There will also be a dance floor with an 80s DJ. “We watch the kids be on stage all day, let us dress up in costumes and go out and have fun,” Hanifl stated. Andert agreed, “I see the Masque as a way to build

Details: With over 350 members, the Minnesota Watercolor Society is one of the largest associations of watercolor artists in the Midwest. “Light in Droplets” is a non-juried show open to all active members.

our community, to have some fun with our patrons and to enrich the performing arts in White Bear Lake and surrounding areas.”

Andert stressed that all the fun is for a good cause. CPA relies on donors to fund camp scholarships and Title I School outreach. Hanifl-Lee added that some of the fundraising gala’s proceeds will go to finding or retaining teaching artists, explaining, “We have to be very selective with who we work with … It takes a special voice.”

OCTOBER EVENTS

Explore upcoming Avenue of the Arts events with CPA, LPT and WBCA

ALL COMMUNITY DAY

Location: White Bear Center for the Arts

Date: Saturday, Oct. 26, 1:00-3:00 PM

Details: Visit White Bear Center for the Arts to celebrate fall with a day full of art. Compete in a pumpkin carving contest, give several art mediums a try, create make-and-take art projects, hear live music, and more. Costumes are welcome!

party the cast wants to make adaptable is the audience. Said Hall, “I hope they come in thinking, ‘“SpongeBob: The Musical”—Huh?’ And then they exit the show feeling like, ‘“SpongeBob: The Musical”— Wow!’”

“SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical” runs at the Hanifl Center for Performing Arts from Friday, Oct. 4— Sunday, Oct. 13. For tickets and more information, visit childrensperformingartsmn. org/tickets/

Those special voices forward CPA’s essential community vision, too. “We like to introduce new kids and new families to theater,” Hanifl-Lee states. Ultimately, the Masque ensures CPA is doing its part to continue “building The Arts District in White Bear as a destination.”

For more information about the Masque (and early access to their silent auction), visit childrensperformingartsmn.org/ support/masque-gala/

‘FIRST PERSON PLURAL’ COMMUNITY RECEPTION

Location: White Bear Center for the Arts

Date: Thursday, Oct. 24, 6:00-8:00 PM

Details: Explore the stories and contributions of immigrants from around the world residing in and around White Bear Lake through Cadex Herrera’s outdoor installation “First Person Plural.” Enjoy an evening of art, community, and conversation with Herrera and project participants during the Community Reception.

North metro resident’s love of sewing fuels pet business

Ooftah, or should we say Woofda?

North metro resident Taylor Fairchild has launched her own pet accessory company, Woofda & Co. She started making dog collars during the height of the pandemic in 2020 but decided to share her creations with more than just family and friends after she received a positive reaction to her creations.

Press Publications recently interviewed Fairchild to learn more about Woofda & Co.

Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

A. I was born here in Minnesota and currently work as an infant teacher while pursuing a degree in photography. I am also the owner of WoofDa & Co. Driven by a lifelong passion for pets, I aspire to become a wildlife or pet photographer upon graduation. Outside of work and studies, I enjoy houseplants, rock collecting, camping, caring for my axolotls and dog, and transforming a school bus into a camper! I am

particularly excited to marry my best friend this October.

Q. When did you launch WoofDa & Co., and how did it come about?

A. I officially launched WoofDa & Co. here in Centerville in October 2023, although I designed and created my first collar during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The inspiration for WoofDa & Co. came from my dog, Kota. I was frustrated by the high cost of bland, solid-colored collars and, fueled by my love for sewing, I decided to make my own. The positive response from my family encouraged me to share my creations with the world!

Q. What sort of things do you make? Do you make products for both dogs and cats?

A. At WoofDa & Co., we offer a variety of pet products, including collars, leashes, bandanas, bows and bow ties. We are also in the process of developing waste bag holders for leashes and preparing to launch a new line of dog treats. We do have cat collars that have also been well received.

Q. Tell us about the name and how you came up with it.

A. The name WoofDa & Co. is a nod to the Minnesotan phrase “Uff Da!” I wanted to share my Minnesota pride through my business.

Q. What makes your items unique from other products on the market?

A. Our products are distinguished by their unique designs, durability and customizable hardware options. We are currently testing a selection of collars with custom embroidered names.

Q. Where can people find your items? Do you sell in any local markets or shops or online?

A. I actively participate in local markets, which provide a wonderful opportunity to meet many wonderful people and their pets. You can also find us on Facebook or our website at WoofDaCo.com.

Compiled by Shannon Granholm

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Centerville resident Taylor Fairchild was frustrated by the high prices of dog accessories, so she decided to make her own.

Woofda & Co. was one of many vendors featured in Centerville’s Main Street Market this year. The business offers a variety of pet products including collars, leashes, bandanas, bows and bow ties.

Fairchild’s dog, Kota, inspired her pet accessory business WoofDa & Co.