Vadnais Heights Press

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Chase Real Estate considers new housing complex

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Chase Real Estate, a Burnsville-based company specializing in building development, sales, construction and financing, is considering the development of a new apartment complex in Vadnais Heights. Chase Real Estate proposes to build the complex on 9.29 acres of undeveloped land located at Labore Road and Center City Drive. The complex would be developed in two phases, featuring two five-story apartment buildings housing roughly 360 units total. The development will also include outdoor amenities for residents and guests, including an outdoor pool, patio, fire pits and courtyards. The land is adjacent to a single-family residential dwelling and agricultural land

SEE APARTMENT COMPLEX, PAGE 24

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Two special education teachers who have a combined 43 years of experience are planning to launch a microschool in the White Bear Lake area this fall.

White Bear Lake neighbors Tamara Morett and Kathleen Amstutz both see the need for students to have another option for schooling in grades K-5.

“I feel like the constraints of public schools right now, the traditional school setting, just doesn’t meet the needs of students ... I can't remember the last time that kids got to actively play and collaborate in a classroom,” Morett said. “We hear time and time again that school is not fun, and I see it. We feel it …

“I used to love coming to work, and now it's just it's very daunting, and the expectations that are put on us for students to make those gains are impossible because they don't allow us to have

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PHOTOS BY SHANNON GRANHOLM | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Granholm

Janelle Hart

Marcy Whitman

Maddie McMahon

& Dan Knieff

RAMSEY COUNTY BRIEF

Ramsey County judges offer free weddings on Valentine’s Day Ramsey County District Court judges will offer free weddings for couples who wish to get married on Valentine’s Day. Weddings will take place from noon to 1:15 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, in the lowerlevel conference room 40 of the Ramsey Kellogg County Courthouse, 15 West Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. Couples who are interested in having a judge officiate a Valentine’s Day

wedding ceremony should complete a form online at www.mncourts.gov/ Find-Courts/Ramsey.aspx. They also must obtain a valid marriage license from the Ramsey County Vital Records Office prior to the day of the marriage ceremony. Couples must bring the marriage license and return envelope provided to them, along with one U.S. postage stamp on the day of the ceremony.

We Do the Heavy Lifting for You!

WHAT’S HAPPENING • WHAT’S HAPPENING

CONTRIBUTED

PREMIER WORLD DISCOVERY

TRAVEL SHOW

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb 13

Where: White Bear Area Senior Center, 2484 E County Road F

Details: Enjoy an educational presentation with highlights of upcoming trips and details of traveling with Premier World Travel.

Contact: 651-653-3124

GALENTINE'S DAY PARTY – MAHTOMEDI

When: 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

Where: Mahtomedi-Willernie downtown

Details: Food, drink and shopping specials and pop-up vendors. See list of events online.

Contact: allevents.in/willernie/ galentine’s-day-party

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS OF WHITE BEAR LAKE AREA MEETING

When: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

GALENTINE’S DAY – GIRLS NIGHT OUT IN WHITE BEAR LAKE

When: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13

Where: Downtown White Bear Lake

Details: Evening of shopping, dining and Bingo at participating businesses. Contact: downtownwhitebearlake.com

Where: Zoom

Details: Presentation by Doug Niemela, executive director of H2O for Life. Meeting link on website. Contact: lwv-wbla.org

COMMUNITY BABY SHOWER

When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14

Where: Mahtomedi District Education Center

Details: Meet other new parents, do activities, visit with local vendors, and learn about Early Childhood Family Education programs. Refreshments, door prizes and free gift.

Contact: communityed.mahtomedi.k12. mn.us

HALF FAST HALF

When: 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: Vadnais Heights Elementary, 3645 Centerville Rd.

Details: 5K, 10.5K and ½ marathon courses through Vadnais Heights

followed by pancake breakfast. Registration information online. Contact: mmmraces.com

TAMARACK NATURE CENTER

PHOTO CLUB

When: 10 a.m. - noon Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287

Otter Lake Road, White Bear Lake

Details: Share and discuss photography images in this private club. All experience levels welcome.

Contact:  tncphotoclubinfo@gmail.com

HORSESHOES ON ICE

When: 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: White Bear Lake VFW, 4496 Lake Ave. S.

Details: Two person teams can participate in the annual fundraiser. Sign up from 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Contact: 651-426-4944

COURTNEY BURTON WITH COURT'S IN SESSION

When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14 and Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, White Bear Lake

Details: Celebrate Valentine's Day with classic love songs and music of a bygone era performed with a contemporary spirit. Ticket information online. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.org

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD SHELF

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 E. County Road F

Details: Distribution of food to any family in need and considered low income. May register day of event. Contact: 651-246-3638 or cityvadnaisheights.com/foodshelf

WINE CHEESE AND SOME CHOCOLATE

When: noon, 1:30 & 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: 7 Vines Vineyard, Dellwood

Details: Tasting journey of wines paired with local cheeses and sweets. Tickets online.

Contact: 7vinesvineyard.com

TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE ARMORY

When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18

Where: White Bear Lake Armory, 2228 4th St.

Details: Local-themed trivia, drink specials and prizes. Teams of six. Registration required. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

FOOD AND CLIMATE CHANGE

When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18

Where: White Bear Lake Library, 2150 Second St.

Details: Three experts discuss food waste and ways to reduce it. Program sponsored by Northeast Metro Climate Action.

Contact:/bit.ly/NEMCA0218

OPINION

Paying attention

Recently I've noticed the resurgence of the term “gaslighting.” The phrase has been around as long as I can remember and currently it appears that a wide spectrum of age groups are using it, maybe not even knowing how it originated. The way I interpret gaslighting is that someone is attempting to make you doubt the reality of what you're seeing and even your own sanity through skillful manipulation.

An online search showed the origin to be a 1938 British stage play adapted into a 1940 film in the UK, followed by a 1944 American movie version starring Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer. The film — about a husband using lies and manipulation, including secretly brightening and dimming the lights of their home, to make his wife doubt her sanity so that he can steal from her — helped make the term a part of the vernacular. MerriamWebster defines gaslighting as deception of one's memory, perception of reality, or mental stability. While it has remained, in varying degrees, a part of conversations and popular culture throughout the decades, a Google Trends graph shows a dramatic increase of usage starting in 2016. I also noticed the term being used online in relation to domestic abuse. I heard it used most recently a couple of weeks ago when a convicted participant in the 2021 capital riot declined a presidential pardon. She was quoted on a variety of news outlets saying that she pleaded guilty because she was guilty and accepting a pardon would also serve to contribute to their “gaslighting and false narrative.”

There was a time in the not too distant past that you could reasonably believe that what you were seeing in a photograph was an accurate depiction of reality. With the sophisticated advancements in photo manipulation now accessible to almost anyone with a camera phone, this is no longer the norm.

My training and professional experience with photography started with film processing and making darkroom prints while I was still a teenager, followed by the transition from manual to autofocus cameras, digital imaging and the introduction of Photoshop. Much has changed over the years but I believe the fundamentals of good photojournalism and ethical editorial standards followed here at the Press still apply. A recent On Point radio broadcast and online article at wbur.org posed the question: Does a picture prove anything anymore? The guests included Isaac Reynolds, a group product manager for Pixel Camera at Google and Hany Farid, a professor at the University of California and Co-founder and chief science officer at GetReal Labs, which develops techniques to detect manipulated media. The discussion with the host included the observation that powerful, easily accessible photo editing tools can unleash both wild creativity and wild lies. Interviewed separately, the guests offered contrasting points of view. Reynolds put a positive spin on the latest technology, saying that the tools for altering and cleaning up background distractions and people from images on the most current phones help users produce a photo that better matches their memories. Looking at the impact of photography in broader terms, Fahid said that, “Photography is not just about honeymoon photos. It is about our shared sense of reality in the world.” Addressing concerns about the spread of misinformation he added, “it's not just the photo that's being manipulated, the goal is to manipulate someone's understanding of reality.” He also noticed a possible throwback to authenticity after seeing students on campus using (non digital) Polaroid film cameras. I'm personally coming to the realization that in order to deal with the considerable emotional and psychological power of gaslighting techniques, we need to be extra vigilant and use and support the credible resources we have available to get to the truth, no matter what sort of skillfully created alternative versions of reality are being presented as distractions.

Paul Dols is photojournalist/website editor for Press Publications. He can be reached at 651-407-1238.

Survey highlights support and satisfaction

WMovers & Shakers Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak

hite Bear Lake Area Schools (WBLAS) recently conducted a community and parent survey to gather insights into the district's performance and community perception. The results, presented by Peter Leatherman from The Morris Leatherman Company at a School Board work session, highlight a strong sense of satisfaction and support from both district residents and parents.

The survey, conducted in December, included responses from a random sample of district residents and parents. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with WBLAS scoring above the norm in multiple categories compared to other school districts.

One of the standout statistics from the survey was the overall quality rating of WBLAS. An impressive 86% of residents rated the district favorably, surpassing the typical 80% norm. Parents responded even more positively, with a 91% favorable rating. This reflects a strong sense of confidence in the district’s leadership, staff and educational approach.

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When asked about the quality of education provided by WBLAS compared to three years ago, residents showed a 4:1 ratio in favor of improvement, double the standard 2:1 ratio. Parents were even more supportive, with an outstanding 6:1 ratio favoring educational progress. These numbers indicate that the district’s continuous efforts to enhance learning experiences are being recognized and appreciated by the community.

The survey also explored the job performance of WBLAS teachers and instructional staff. The results revealed high approval ratings, with 88% of residents expressing a favorable opinion (compared to the norm of 80%), while parents responded even more positively with a 91% approval rating. This demonstrates the high level of trust and respect the community has for WBLAS educators and their commitment to student success.

In response to a question about phrases people might use to describe WBLAS, “excellent teachers” received the highest favorable response at 95% from both residents and parents. This overwhelming endorsement reflects the incredible work of our educators and the district’s dedication to recruiting and retaining top-notch staff members who make a lasting impact on students.

Community investment in WBLAS was another key area of focus

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in the survey. When asked if the community receives good value from its investment in public schools, 89% of residents responded favorably, exceeding the norm of 85%. Among parents, this figure was even higher at 92%. These results affirm that the district’s strategic initiatives and resources are being well-utilized to benefit students and the broader community.

The survey also revealed that parents overwhelmingly feel welcomed and accepted at their child’s school. Furthermore, they recognize the genuine care and dedication of teachers and staff.

Mr. Leatherman emphasized that WBLAS is moving in the right direction, and these positive survey results are a testament to the district’s collective efforts. Achievements like these are not accidental.

As Superintendent, I am incredibly proud to be part of a district that continuously strives for excellence. I extend my deepest gratitude to our educators, staff, parents, and community members who make WBLAS a place of growth, opportunity, and success. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students and their future.

Dr. Wayne Kazmierczak is the superintendent of White Bear Lake Area Schools.

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Angle of View

Paul Dols

WHITE BEAR/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | LETTER GUIDELINES

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dog beach integral part of White Bear Lake

I have been reading with interest the letters to the editor regarding the dog beach along White Bear Lake.  Though I don’t have a dog in this fight (literally, no dog), I do love the dog beach!

My wife and I frequently come for walks along White Bear Lake and enjoy the ambiance. After our walk, we settle in to watch the comings and goings of boats and boaters, and watch the dogs teaching their owners to throw balls for them to fetch.  Everyone enjoys a good splash in the water on a hot summer day – including dogs.

We haven’t been to any council meetings, so don’t know what the issues are, but we did want to give a “thumbs up” to providing this refreshing and joyful spot for dogs, their owners, and passers-by.

It’s an integral part of White Bear Lake — as much a part of our experience as the stops we make afterwards shopping and eating downtown.

Louis Asher Vadnais Heights

Offenders

have paid

Mr. Kimball’s recent dustup over Trump’s pardons seems normal. In my limited experience, presidential pardons have regularly been polarizing. Even Gerald Ford’s pardon of Nixon generated a lot more heat than light at the time. In retrospect, however, it is seen as a wise decision.

There are a number of aspects to the pardon of the J6 offenders

beyond what Mr. Kimball mentioned, which should be kept in mind as we navigate this issue. First, per my reading, the pardon only extends to federal crimes. Crimes in other jurisdictions can still be prosecuted.

Second, civil cases can arise, as the pardon itself is further evidence of culpability, and they have a lower bar as well.

Third, the J6 offenders have personally paid dearly for their involvement that day, with lost time, money and jobs, perhaps even careers and reputation. That cost is not being erased.

The tab for investigating and adjudicating the event is reported to be about $2.4 billion, or about $7 per American resident.

An interesting Pioneer Press article a while back asked why adjudicating the J6 event has captivated national attention far more than the previous summer’s vandalism, looting, arson and other sordid violence. The answer given was that the J6 event was an assault against an institution of government. However, the earlier rioting itself was also against an institution of government (the police), as well as against the government itself (the People, lest we forget).

And the personal cost due to that rioting? Borne largely by the victims, insurance companies and taxpayers, to the tune of about $2 billion.

So it seems that, while the J6 offenders’ pardon was an open event, the rioters’ “pardon” was granted through the silence of judicial indifference and media distraction.

And the conclusion of the matter? Per Solomon: “Fear God

and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil.” Pardons, whether via commission or omission, indeed do not have the last word.

James Nash White Bear Lake

Government coup

Are you aware that just last weekend, the U.S. government had the largest data breach in history? All of your sensitive personal and financial data, which includes your Social Security number and all your financial details and transactions you have ever had with the federal government are now in the hands of an unelected private citizen (Elon Musk) and a handful of his computer programmers. This has affected every single U.S. citizen who has ever had any financial interaction with the federal government.

Elon Musk hacked into our U.S. Treasury system and acquired this information illegally. None of us elected Elon Musk. No individual citizen has the right to obtain our personal information stored with the government. He now not only has the data, but he also has access to control, alter or stop any payment from the treasury system at his discretion. Payments such as veteran’s benefits, nursing homes, funding for roads, law enforcement, etc. The Treasury touches virtually all of our services. Everyone will be affected by this breach. This is not a partisan issue.

I cannot think of anyone who does not care that their personal data is now in the hands of an ordinary citizen who illegally obtained it. And no one knows what he intends to do with the information.

Congress is the government branch responsible for passing budgets and laws and allocating how our tax dollars are spent. We need to call this what it is, a coup of our government. Call your representatives now and ask how they are going to protect your personal data and stop this takeover.

Steven Jorissen Vadnais Heights

What’s the fuss

As a resident who can practically see the dog beach from my front yard, and as a daily walker on the trail that goes past the beach, for the life of me I don’t understand the fuss. By this paper’s own reporting, complaints of dogs intruding on the adjacent swimming beach, and off-leash dogs have been largely mitigated with fencing, signs, and a user group that self-enforces the posted rules. It’s instructive to use the Press’ same reporting to highlight the following from Parks Advisory Chair Bill Ganzlin: Park commission members made approximately 100 visits to the dog beach in 2023 and 2024 with the following observations: In general, dog owners, and their dogs, were well-behaved, and that dog owners kept dogs “in good control” while using the park.

Only one incident was witnessed where a dog tried to cross the buoy and enter the swimming area.

City staff tested the water 11 times, and all of the tests showed “very little” presence of E. coli. “There were no advisories or closures recommended for the dog beach.”

Further, there are beach users from elsewhere in the metro that come here for the dog beach but stay for the shopping and dining.

I find myself echoing Parks Commission Member Bryan Belisle’s comment, “Would this even be addressed every year if we didn’t have a council member living across the street from the beach?” The beach is a public asset benefiting the community as a whole. Its viability shouldn’t be tied to a minority, and in particular the influence of a single council member.

Different rules

I just read the letter from Judy Lissick. Is she saying that our elected officials should not go to work and do the job that they were elected to do because they didn’t get what they wanted? And isn’t Brion Curran the same person that was driving drunk in Lindstrom thinking she was in St. Paul? If anyone else would have done that they would have been fired from their job, but I guess there are different rules for people who make the laws.

Andy Murphy White Bear Lake

John Cundy White Bear Lake

COPS&COURTS

RAMSEY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE REPORTS

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

• A St. Paul woman, 43, was cited Jan. 5 for shoplifting items from the Walmart store in the 800 block of County Road E.

• Deputies recovered a passport found in the 3200 block of Highway 61 by a community member and turned in Jan. 6.

• A resident in the 900 block of County Road D on Jan. 6 reported a package stolen off her front step.

• Deputies took custody a license plate found lying in the street Jan. 6 in the 3400 block of Rice Street.

• A Deer Park, Wash. woman reported being assaulted by her sister Jan. 6 in the 4300 block of Centerville Road.

• A Vadnais Heights man, 40, was arrested for assault at 3:20 a.m. Jan. 7 in the 1000 block of County Road D, after he allegedly threatened his girlfriend with a knife.

• A resident in the 3400 block of Highway 61 reported his vehicle stolen Jan. 8 while it was parked outside his house. The case is under investigation.

• A St. Paul man, 32, and a St. Paul woman, 24, were arrested Jan. 9 in the 3400 block of Highway 61 on active Ramsey County warrants for threats of violence and for illegally possessing firearms.

• A St. Paul woman on Jan. 9 reported her wallet stolen while she was shopping inside the Walmart store.

• An Osceola, Wis. woman, 35, was cited Jan. 10 in the 3100 block of Labore Road for speeding.

• A rental storage unit in the 3200 block of Highway 61 was reported broken Jan. 10 into and several items stolen.

• A Maplewood man, 49, was arrested Jan. 10 in the 1200 block of County Road D Circle E for domestic assault, after he threatened a woman during an argument.

• A New Brighton man, 34, was cited Jan. 10 at the intersection of I-35E and County Road E for driving while displaying expired registration.

• Ramsey County Sheriff's Office deputies on Jan. 11 responded to the report from Luther Cadillac in the 3500 block of Highway 61 about a prospective customer stealing items from inside vehicles.

White Bear Township

• A trailer parked in the 5900 block of Otter View Trail was reported broken into Jan. 9 and thousands of dollars worth of tools stolen.

• A resident in the 1400 block of Whisperwood Trail on Jan. 10 reported her vehicle stolen while it was parked outside her home.

• A Roberts, Wis. woman on Jan. 11 reported being shoved several times by her boyfriend, 34, on Bellaire Avenue and County Road F.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORTS

The White Bear Lake Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• A woman was arrested for an outstanding warrant in the 1900 block of Florence Street Jan. 29.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 2500 block of Sumac Ridge Jan. 29.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2500 block of Elm Drive Jan. 29.

• Officers investigated an order for protection violation in the 3500 block of Commerce Blvd. Jan. 29.

• Officers investigated a missing persons report in the 2300 block of County Road F Jan. 29.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3700 block of Hazel Street N. Jan. 30.

• Officers took a report of financial transaction card fraud in the 1500 block of Park Street Jan. 30. An order for protection violation was reported in the 1900 block of County Road F Jan. 30.

• A house was egged in the 1900 block of Birch Street Jan. 30.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 4400 block of Lake Avenue S. Jan. 30.

• Officers assisted with a civil problem in the 1300 block of Hedman Way Jan. 30.

• A student pedestrian reported being bumped by a student driver after school in the 5000 block of Division Avenue Jan. 30.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 3100 block of Karth Road and the 4700 block of Washington Square Jan. 30. Officers mediated a verbal dispute in the 3700 block of Highland Avenue Jan. 30.

• A noise complaint was reported in the 4700 block of Centerville Road Jan. 30.

• Officers took a report of a no contact protection order violation in the 1900 block of County Road F Jan. 31.

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF REPORTS

The Washington County Sheriff's Office reported the following selected calls for service in Birchwood, Dellwood, Grant, Mahtomedi, Pine Springs and Willernie: Birchwood

• Wildwood Avenue residents on Jan. 16 reported people for using their driveway as a parking space to take a walk down to the lake. Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies advised the trespassers they couldn't park on private property for that type of activity.

Grant

• A vehicle reported missing from a driveway in the 7000 block of Kimbro Avenue at 9:37 a.m. Jan. 14 turned out to have been the daughter's vehicle, which she may have been driving at the time.

Mahtomedi

Deputies on routine patrol Jan. 12 cited three vehicles in the historic district for violating the city's winter parking ban. Two of the vehicles were parked on Park Avenue and Elm Street, and the third on Crocus Street and Mahtomedi Avenue. At 1:31 a.m. Jan. 14, a vehicle parked on Hallam Curve and Hallam Avenue S. was cited for the same offense. Starting at 1:36 a.m. and ending at 2:29 a.m. Jan. 15, deputies cited nine vehicles, both in and out of the historic district, for violating the winter parking ban. The ban prohibits parking on a public street between the hours of 1 and 7 a.m., from Nov. 1 to April 1.

vehicle was out of commission.

• Deputies had better luck with the next criminal, after arresting a motorist Jan. 15 on Stillwater Road, following a traffic stop for driving after revocation.

• Deputies assisted another agency, the White Bear Police Department, on Jan. 15 in conducting a Harassment Restraining Order arrest at the subject's home on Juniper Street. The whole thing went down without incident.

• Deputies conducted six traffic stops near their headquarters on the south end of town Jan. 16 and issued that many citations. During their speed patrol in the 20 mph zone along Long Lake Road, deputies stopped three vehicles within 30 minutes and issued two citations. A third citation was issued for expired registration on Century Avenue; a fourth citation was issued on Lincolntown Avenue for no proof of insurance; a fifth citation was issued on Long Lake Road for speeding and a sixth citation was issued on Wildwood Road and Lincolntown Avenue for no proof of insurance.

• With April Fool's Day still 10 weeks away, deputies received a welfare check call on Jan. 16 about a person lying on a bench on East Avenue covered with a tarp. On arrival in the area, deputies located the statue of a homeless Jesus outside the St. Andrew's Church east entrance.

• Berwick Place residents on Jan. 17 reported $2,000 in fraudulent charges to their credit card.

• A bank received two counterfeit $20 bills in the VFW's morning deposit Jan. 31.

• Theft was reported in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Jan. 31.

Officers mediated a civil matter in the 4700 block of Highway 61 Jan. 31.

• A North Branch man was arrested for DWI and test refusal following a traffic stop at White Bear Avenue and Lake Avenue S. Jan. 31.

• A Maplewood man was arrested for DWI after a traffic stop at Highway 61 and County Road D Feb. 1.

• Theft was reported in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb.1.

• Harassment was reported in the 3500 block of Century Avenue Feb.1.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb. 1.

• Officers responded to a dispute in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road Feb. 2.

Officers responded to a dispute in the 4700 block of Centerville Road Feb. 2.

• Damage to property was reported in the 4800 block of Bloom Avenue Feb. 2.

• A Minneapolis man was arrested for a felony level protection order violation in the 1900 block of County Road F Feb. 2.

• A vehicle was broken into and items stolen in the 4900 block of Woodcrest Road Feb. 3. The suspect was cited for misdemeanor theft.

• Harassment was reported at a business in the 4300 block of Lake Avenue S. Feb. 3.

• Theft from a vehicle was reported in the 4700 block of Krech Avenue Feb. 3.

• Criminal damage to property was reported in the 2100 block of Fourth Street Feb. 3.

• Disorderly conduct was reported Feb. 4 in the 1300 block of Highway 96.

• Officers responded to a fight in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road Feb. 4.

• Deputies made a DWI arrest at 10:39 p.m. Jan. 12 at the intersection of Juniper Street and Mahtomedi Avenue. A debit card was reported dropped at a gas station on Wildwood Road Jan. 13. The complainant didn't realize the card was missing until the bank called about multiple charges to the card.

• A motorist on Stillwater Road and Hallam Avenue S. on Jan. 13 was cited for hands-free violation.

• Deputies assisted a Loretta Lane resident who was locked out of her house at 11:47 p.m. Jan. 13. The complainant couldn't wake up her sleeping husband, so deputies arriving on scene shined their flashlight into the bedroom in question while the complainant rang the doorbell. The husband woke up and let her in.

• Deputies assisted the Stillwater Police Department in a vehicle pursuit that started on Manning Avenue and 75th Street N. at 2:39 a.m. Jan. 15. Law enforcement did not catch the suspects, but found the crashed vehicle on Glenmar Avenue. The subjects were no longer on scene, but their getaway

SCHOOL BRIEF

Education foundation seeks nominations for Lynn Mielke award

The White Bear Lake Area Educational Foundation (WBLAEF) is pleased to honor Lynn Mielke, a cherished former White Bear Lake educator. The Lynn Mielke Distinguished Educator award is given to an employee in the White Bear Lake School Community who uses his or her talents to enrich the lives of others.

Pine Springs

• The driver of a southbound SUV was cited Jan. 14 on Hilton Trail, just north of 64th Street for displaying registration that expired in May 2024 and for passing in a prohibited zone, following a traffic stop for passing a vehicle waiting to turn left by using the right shoulder.

Willernie

The driver of an older model pick up truck was arrested Jan. 13 on Wildwood Road at Stillwater Road for driving after revocation and for possession of suspected narcotics, following a traffic stop for failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign. During the stop, the driver was unable to produce proof of insurance. During the routine search prior to arrest, deputies found prescription narcotics loose in the pockets of the suspect's pants without any properly labeled container or prescription documentation.

This award honors Lynn and her contributions to White Bear Lake Area Schools and particularly her positive impact on students with special needs. Lynn was a speech/language clinician and special education coordinator. She worked for the White Bear Lake Area School District for more than 25 years. This award, given in memory of Lynn and her legacy, acknowledges others who have positively impacted the lives of students and their families. Nomination forms can be found on the WBLAEF website. Nomination forms may be submitted by an individual or a group, with one letter of nomination. Letter and nomination forms are due by email, on or before April 1. This award may be given to anyone who works in the White Bear Lake Area School District. Visit www.wblaef.org to download a nomination form.

Press Publications takes home 5 newspaper association awards

Press Publications has received five awards from the Minnesota Newspaper Association (MNA) as a part of the 20232024 Better Newspaper Contest (BNC).

Every year, dailies and non-dailies with circulations from 1,500 to over 10,000 from all over the state enter the contest. The contest is made up of several categories in the areas of advertising, stories, breaking news, investigative reporting, design, photography, sports and more.

The 2023-2024 contest had nearly 4,000 entries. Winners were recently honored at the BNC Awards Gala during the 158th annual MNA Convention & Trade Show at the Minneapolis Marriott Northwest in Brooklyn Park.

The White Bear Press and The Citizen received awards. The White Bear Press earned a first place in the General Excellence category. The award recognizes “balanced excellence of a newspaper as a whole.” Judges consider quality of news coverage, advertising, classifieds, editorial pages and the overall appearance of the newspaper.

Judges commented, “All of the entries

were great, but the White Bear Press just stood out to me. There is a nice balance of pages and the story arrangement on the pages made them easy to read. The Letter to the Editor page was outstanding and the ad creation I thought was outstanding. I especially liked the Vineyard/Brewery Guide. Well done, folks!”

The White Bear Press also received third place in the Special Section category for two of its special sections, one on the unified White Bear Lake Area High School and the other on the new public safety facility. In the Website category, Press Publications earned third place. Judges commented that the website was “very attractive.”

Staff Writer Erik Suchy received third place in the Human Interest Story – News Feature category for his story, “Searching for Nathan Edberg: 25 years later.” Judges commented, “An excellent choice to feature a cold case update. People are drawn to these stories for so many reasons. Great use of background

Marketfest committee selects new director

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

There will be a new “point person” for Marketfest this summer.

The Marketfest Committee has selected Laura Lewis to be the next Marketfest director. Former Marketfest Director Lisa Beecroft, who has been involved in Marketfest on and off for the past 18 years, recently announced that she was stepping away from the position.

“Laura will bring a balance of experience as the new Marketfest director,” said Dan Perry, Marketfest chair.

Lewis, a 2011 White Bear Lake Area High School grad, currently resides in Vadnais Heights with her husband Dennis and their two sons, 2 and 6 weeks. When she was a kid, she lived in the house on the corner of Highway 61 and Lake Avenue.

“I grew up walking to Marketfest,” she recalled. “I love Marketfest for all that it is.”

As Lewis got older, she continued going to Marketfest with her friends until her stepdad, Frank Watson, who serves as the volunteer coordinator, asked her to start working the event.

“I was probably about 13,” Lewis said. “I was eager and jumped at the opportunity to get to be paid to help out with the cool event that I was already so in love with as a kid … Every year he (Watson) would add a little more responsibility to my plate if I was up for it. Eventually, he asked if I wanted to work at the actual event, and I said, ‘Yes absolutely.’ It gave me an excuse to stay, talk to people, eat the food.”

For over a decade, Lewis continued to help with the event, even when she moved away to pursue her degree in marketing. She also was a vendor for a couple of years. After graduating from college, she worked at Anoka Ramsey Community College. Since she had her summers off, she helped Beecroft out for the event on a freelance basis.

Lewis eventually took the director of membership, marketing and catering role at the White Bear Yacht Club. “Her experience in that role leaned into many of the characteristics that we were looking for in our next director,” Perry explained.

Lewis worked at the yacht club for a few years until she and her husband were expecting their first child. The two were not interested in sending their son to day care, so someone had to stay home.

Dennis landed the executive chef

position at Top Golf, so Lewis decided to stay home. “It was bittersweet to leave the club but … I haven't looked back twice. I just loved being at home with him.”

As a stay-at-home mom, Lewis said she wasn’t necessarily looking for a job, but something to fill up some of her time. Watson told her about Beecroft leaving the position and encouraged her to apply.

“It seemed like such a natural transition to take on this role,” Lewis said. “I truly love the event.”

For the past couple of years, Lewis described herself as an event “attendee”, but she is looking forward to getting more involved again.

“I’m excited to dive in from a director’s standpoint … and to see it from a bird’seye view,” she said, adding that she is excited to be a part of the “bustle” of the event.

“You are helping set up and then pretty soon you are getting pulled in every direction and trying to put out fires,” she said. “That might sound stressful to some, but that sounds awesome. That sounds like my dream job.”

Lewis will attend her first Marketfest committee meeting this week. To stay up to date on this year’s event, visit https:// marketfestwbl.com.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

and detail.”

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm received third place in the Social Issues Story category for her article titled, “Faces of fentanyl: Commemorating the lives lost,” which ran in The Citizen and other publications.

Judges commented, “This problem

needs to be in the public eye more often. And the problem in prisons continue to increase. Wonderful writing. Please keep the public up to date on this national problem that is destroying so many.” For more information about the MNA or BNC, visit https://mna.org.

Weekly Outlook

Weather Tidbits

There hasn’t been much in the snow department to talk about this season, so the 5.3” I totaled on Saturday, Feb 8, seems like a big deal. We, in the northern suburbs, totaled a few more inches than those to our south and I saw just over 7” in Forest Lake. It was a dry and fluffy snow which made it easy to shovel. I was lucky enough to shovel 3 additional driveways with friends

Frank Watson is a local Meteorologist who operates a weather station in White Bear Lake. Weather data and observation are from his weather station and trips around the

Frank Watson

CONTRIBUTED

Vadnais Heights resident Laura Lewis, pictured with her family, is the new Marketfest director.

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory

What can you win?

Grand Prize. Prizes are gift cards donated by these Ice Out 2025 sponsors. How do you win?

All entries with the correct ice out date will be placed into a drawing. First ticket drawn will be awarded the grand prize. Runners up will be drawn until all prizes are awarded. You must pick up your prize/ redemption slip at Press Publications before May 31, 2025.

HEART LEARNING COLLECTIVE: Families, students ‘deserve

that creative flexibility within our classrooms.”

She added, “We want to take a risk and bring this to our community because we truly believe that the families and students deserve another option.”

Morett has been a special education teacher for 27 years. She started her career in Minneapolis Public Schools, but for the last 17 years, she has taught in District 196 (Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan). She has her master’s degree in special education.

Amstutz has taught for 16 years. She started her teaching career in Lexington, Kentucky, and then went to Washington, just outside of Seattle. She has her master’s degree in reading and writing. For the past 16 years, she has taught in District 196. In addition to being neighbors, the teachers carpool to the same school to teach in the same classroom.

“We know each other well and we have a very solid foundation to help students … We want to bring that to White Bear Lake because traditional schools just don't seem to be working well anymore for us.”

Morett and Amstutz are both certified in K-12 special education and elementary.

Heart Learning Collective is designed to serve students of all abilities and backgrounds in K-5 and offer a more personalized educational experience.

“Our vision and our dream is to create this safe, warm welcoming learning environment. Kind of bringing back what we know school used to be when we were in school where we got to play, create and interact, and it wasn't just paper, pencil or sitting in front of a screen,” Amstutz. “Giving kids a chance to spend time

Lillian Trudeau is an inspiring example of resilience and academic achievement. Despite significant personal challenges, she consistently excels, demonstrating remarkable intelligence and eloquence. Lillian's insightful class contributions and exceptional public speaking skills are noteworthy and make her a joy to have in the classroom. She is a gifted writer who shows great promise in her ability. This summer, she broadened her horizons through the Summer Trades Academy. Lillian now aspires to earn a degree in elementary education. Her extraordinary growth powerfully demonstrates that anything is possible!

outside and do projects, the flexibility to drive some of their learning based on their interests.”

Heart Learning Collective is focused on the “whole child,” meaning it is not just about the academics, but also their social-emotional skills, mental health and “becoming good humans,” Amstutz said.

The full-day program will offer a combination of direct instruction, small groups and collaborative, project-based learning five days a week. To maintain its status as a microschool, the student-teacher ratio will never exceed 15 to 1. For the first year, enrollment will be capped at 30 students.

“Our main goal with being a microschool and having such a small group is that each student will get tailored instruction based on their specific and unique needs,” Amstutz said.

The microschool is like a charter school in that it will focus on a specific topic (art). However, microschools do not receive any funding from the government, so families will need to pay tuition. “We are kind of right in the middle, we are not super low, but we are also not on the high end,” Amstutz shared about tuition rates.

An exact location for the school has yet to be nailed down, as it depends on enrollment numbers. “We have some really good options,” Morett said. “We want to make sure that we have the appropriate space

for the number of students.” She added that they are committed to staying within a 5-mile radius of White Bear Lake and would consider the cities of Hugo and Vadnais Heights.

Heart Learning Collective plans to host an information session for families who are interested in learning more about the new opportunity sometime this spring. For more information, visit www. heartlearningcollective.com.

•

• Was discovering girls. – Mick Machus

• Was spying on my sisters and their dates!

CONTRIBUTED

White Bear Lake residents, Kathleen Amstutz (left) and Tamara Morett are working on launching a microschool in White Bear Lake.

12 VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS www.presspubs.com

CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS ORDINANCE NO. 786

AN ORDINANCE SETTING COMPENSATION FOR MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBERS FOR 2025 I.

WHEREAS: The City Council of Vadnais Heights passed Ordinance No. 779 setting the rates of compensation for Mayor and Council Member October 15, 2024; and II.

WHEREAS: this ordinance notice has been published in the paper of note ten days prior to consideration; III.

THEREFORE: Effective January 1, 2025, in accordance with Ordinance No. 779, the monthly compensation for mayor shall be $750 and councilmember shall be $625. IV.

This ordinance shall be effective from its passage and subsequent publication.

Passed by the City Council of Vadnais Heights this Passed by the City Council of Vadnais Heights this 4th day of February, 2025.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12, 2025.

CITY OF VADNAIS HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

2025 STREET IMPROVEMENTS SEH NO. VADNA 182115 CITY PROJECT NO. 2025-1

Notice is hereby given that Online Bids will be received by the City of Vadnais Heights until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 6, 2025, via QuestCDN for the furnishing of all labor and material for the construction of 2025 Street Improvements.

The bid opening will be conducted via Microsoft Teams, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://bit.ly/VH25StImp Or call in (audio only)

United States, Chicago

Conference ID: 247 564 711# Any person monitoring the meeting remotely may be responsible for any documented costs.

providing the district with 22 years of service.

Presentation: Annual Report

Shannon Hunter, director of communications, presented an overview of the 2023-24 Annual Report.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Boe commented on the following items that were included in her written report: (a) Welcome 916 Board Members (b) Member Highlights; (c) CESO Study Recommendations; and (d) Strategic Actions Program

Spotlight: Bellaire Education Center.

Approval of the Consent Agenda

Approved the consent items, accepted as part of the approval of the agenda, consistent with the recommended actions presented by the administration.

Approval of Minutes

Payment of Bills and ACH Payments

Personnel

Acceptance of the FY24 Audit

A report was provided and presented to the School Board by the auditor.

Accepted the FY24 audit from Malloy, Montague, Karnowski, Radosevich & Co., P.A.

Approval of Annual Organizational Resolutions

Approved the organizational resolutions listed a-k for 2025.

a. Designation of Official Newspaper

b. Designation of Depositories

c. Designation of Identified Official with Authority (IOwA)

d. Authorization to Lease, Purchase and Contract for Goods and Services

e. Authorization of Petty Cash Accounts

f. Authorization to Seek Legal Counsel

g. Authorization of Credit Cards

h. Authorization of Electronic Funds Transfers

i. Authorization of Facsimile Signature

j. Authorization of Early Claim Payments

k. Authorization of Micro-Purchase Threshold

Approval of Solar Study, Design, and Project Administration Services

Northeast Metro 916 is exploring the possibility of adding solar panels to the roof of Pankalo Education Center. Hallberg Engineering has submitted a proposal to support this initiative. The project will be conducted in two phases: Phase 1 is a feasibility study to assess the potential benefits of this project. Phase 2 will proceed with construction, bidding and overall project administration if the feasibility study yields positive results.

Approved the proposal submitted by Hallberg Engineering in the amount of $50,000.

Approval of Quora Secondary School Door Replacement Project

Quora Secondary School was originally equipped with solid core wooden doors. Over time, many of these doors have sustained significant damage, necessitating frequent replacements. After testing alternative options, we selected durable aluminum and fiberglass reinforced doors as replacements. These doors are more resistant to damage and maintain the security of our building. The replacement project will utilize a cooperative purchasing contract through Sourcwell, with Kraus-Anderson managing the project. Funding for this project will come from remaining building construction funds. Approved the proposal submitted by Kraus-Anderson in the amount of $546,444.64.

Approval of School Board Policies

Approved Policies 506, 515, 515 Form, 516, and 524 as presented on December 11, 2024.

Adopt Proposed Policy Modifications

400 CY Topsoil Borrow

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. located at 3535 Vadnais Center Drive, St. Paul, MN 55110-5196, Scott Haupt, PE - 651.490.2000.

The Bidding Documents may be viewed for no cost at http://www.sehinc. com by selecting the Project Bid Information link at the bottom of the page and the View Plans option from the menu at the top of the selected project page. Digital image copies of the Bidding Documents are available at http:// www.sehinc.com for a fee of $30. These documents may be downloaded by selecting this project from the “Project Bid Information” link and by entering eBidDocTM Number 9450490 on the SEARCH PROJECTS page. For assistance and free membership registration, contact QuestCDN at 952.233.1632 or info@questcdn.com.

For this project, bids will ONLY be received electronically. Contractors submitting an electronic bid will be charged an additional $42 at the time of bid submission via the online electronic bid service QuestCDN.com. To access the electronic Bid Worksheet, download the project document and click the online bidding button at the top of the advertisement. Prospective bidders must be on the plan holders list through QuestCDN for bids to be accepted. Bids shall be completed according to the Bidding Requirements prepared by SEH dated February 4, 2025.

In addition to digital plans, paper copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from Docunet Corp. located at 2435 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN 55441 (763.475.9600) for a fee of $90. Bid security in the amount of 5 percent of the Bid must accompany each Bid in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders.

A Contractor responding to these Bidding Documents must submit to the City/Owner a signed statement under oath by an owner or officer verifying compliance with each of the minimum criteria in Minnesota Statutes, section 16C.285, subdivision 3.

The City reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to waive irregularities and informalities therein and to award the Contract in the best interests of the City. Jim Hauth, Public Works Director City of Vadnais Heights, Minnesota Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

NORTHEAST METRO 916

WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA

BOARD NOTES JANUARY 15, 2025

The organizational meeting of the School Board of Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District was held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Bellaire School and the following business was transacted. Meeting Called to Order The meeting was called to order by Chair Forsberg at 6:00 p.m. Roll Call of Attendance Members present: Knisely-12, Palmer-13, Jones-14, Forsberg-16, Oknesvad-282, Bock- 621, Nitardy-622, Clark-623, Rebelein-831, Stout-832, Dols-833 and Thelander-834. Absent: Daniels-624. Also present: Dr. Val Rae Boe, superintendent.

Approval of Agenda

Adopted the agenda as presented, limited discussion to the approved agenda, and accepted the list of items proposed for consent adoption. Election of Officers

Elected the following officers for 2025:

• Chairperson – Marilynn Forsberg, Spring Lake Park

• Vice Chairperson – Laura Palmer, Columbia Heights

• Clerk – Curt Rebelein, Forest Lake

• Treasurer – Kathleen Daniels, White Bear Lake Board Calendar Dates

• Thursday, January 16, and Friday, January 17, 2025 - MSBA Annual Leadership Conference, Minneapolis Convention Center

• Thursday, January 30, 2025 - Open House, Career and Technical Center and Mahtomedi Academy from 3:00-6:00 p.m.

• Friday, January 31, 2025 - 916 Education Foundation Bingo Event at Quora Education Center at 5:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, February 5, 2025 - Regular School Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m.

Questions and/or Comments from Citizens Present on Non-Agenda Items None.

Presentation: Recognition of Retirement

Recognized Tara Chevrier, EAS, who retired on December 20 after

School Board Policy 208 states: If a policy is modified with minor changes that do not affect the substance of the policy or because of a legal change over which the school board has no control, the modified policy may be approved at one meeting at the discretion of the school board.

Approved Policies 510, 523, and 618.

Retirements (10+ Years)

Tara Chevrier, EAS, has provided the school district with 22 years of service. Her retirement date was December 20, 2024.

Amy O’Neil, Psychologist, has provided the school district with 17 years of service. Her retirement date is June 6, 2025.

Accepted the resignations listed above upon the occasion of their retirement.

Approval of 2025 Legislative Platform

Approved the 2025 legislative platform, which was developed cooperatively with the other three intermediate districts and Valerie Dosland, from Ewald Consulting Group, Inc. to be used as a resource during the 2025 legislative session in addressing major issues for the intermediate school districts.

Board Compensation

The annual survey of member district school board compensation and that of the other three intermediate districts for 2024 was shared with the board.

Approved an increase of $100 to compensation levels for 2025 listed as follows:

Directors

Chairperson

Vice-Chair

Clerk

Treasurer

$5,200

$5,900

$5,300

$5,400

$5,300

Resolution Directing Administration to Make Recommendations for Discontinuance and Reductions

Approved the Resolution Directing Administration to Make Recommendations for Discontinuance and Reductions.

2024 Pay Equity Report

Approved the submission of the 2024 Pay Equity implementation report to the Minnesota Pay Equity Management System on or before January 31.

Board Forum

Several members confirmed they would be attending the MSBA Conference.

Chair Forsberg reminded members that everyone has access to the AMSD meetings held on Fridays and encouraged all members to attend.

Member Rebelein noted that Forest Lake is excited to have a local grad, Pete Hegseth, nominated to an esteemed position.

Chair Forsberg encouraged new Board Members to attend the 916 Program tours that will be coming up in the Spring.

Meeting Adjourned

Adjourned the meeting at 7:33 p.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12, 2025.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA PUBLIC NOTICE

SOLICITATION OPPORTUNITIES

Ramsey County releases solicitation opportunities on DemandStar as an alternative method of public notice pursuant to Section 331A.03 of the Minnesota Statutes. Individuals may go to the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” section of the “Doing Business with Ramsey County” webpage at ramseycounty.us/ContractWithRamsey to access registration information. If you are new to DemandStar, please follow the DemandStar registration instructions on the “How to Contract with Ramsey County” webpage. Access to all Ramsey County documents is free if the instructions that are posted are followed. You may call 651-266-8072 or email ProcurementTeam@ ramseycounty.us if you need assistance.

Ramsey County is accepting only electronic Request for Bids (RFBs) responses submitted through DemandStar. Public openings are conducted digitally, as a video conference. See the link above for details.

To view current solicitations, please go to: https://bit.ly/3W8XWan

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12, 2025.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA

OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES

JANUARY 28, 2025

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:01 a.m. with the following members present: Jebens-Singh, Miller, Moran, Xiong and Chair Ortega. Commissioner McGuire was absent. Also present were Ling Becker, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director,

Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. AGENDA of January 28, 2025 was presented for approval. Motion by Moran, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of January 21, 2025 were presented for approval. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Moran. Unanimously approved.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Read by Commissioner Miller.

PROCLAMATION

Library – Proclamation: Meg Robertson Proclamation. Presented by Commissioner Miller. Discussion can be found in archived video.

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Finance – Agreement with Three+One Company Inc for Liquidity Monitoring and Treasury Analysis Services. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-024)

Property Management – Project Budget and Financing Plan for Public Health Medical and Sanitation Updates at the Adult Detention Center. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-025)

Property Management & Public Health – Lease Agreement with City of New Brighton for Women, Infants, and Children Clinic Space. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-026)

Property Management – Seventh Amendment to Office and Warehouse Space Lease Agreement with State of Minnesota Explore Minnesota Tourism for Lease Space in the Metro Square Building. Motion by Miller, seconded by Xiong. Unanimously approved. (B2025-027)

PRESENTATION

Social Services – Presentation: Mental Health Outreach. For information and discussion only. Presented by Sophia Thompson, Director of Social Services. Discussion can be found on archived video.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Presented by Commissioner Moran. Discussion can be found on archived video.

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

Presented by County Manager, Ling Becker. Discussion can be found on archived video.

OUTSIDE BOARD AND COMMITTEE REPORTS

Discussion can be found on archived video.

BOARD CHAIR UPDATE

Presented by Chair Ortega. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT

Chair Ortega declared the meeting adjourned at 10:50 a.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-78

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of: Joseph F. Selbitschka, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 2:45 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Decedent’s last will dated August 19, 2019 (“Will”), and for the appointment of Rachel A. Cobb, whose address is 3238 71st St. E., Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice. Notice is also given that (subject to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-801) all creditors having claims against the Estate are required to present the claims to the personal representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or the claims will be barred.

BY THE COURT: Michael Upton, Court Administrator

BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: January 29, 2025

Attorney for the Petitioner

Paul D. Funke, Funke Law 3820 Cleveland Ave. N., Suite 500, St. Paul, MN, 55112

Attorney License No: 0395366 Telephone: (651) 332-8700; Email: paul@funkelawoffice.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5 and 12, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-77

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL

ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In Re: Estate of AMY ANNE ARNDT, Decedent.

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Notice is given that on the 2nd day of April, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Roxanne J. Arndt, whose address is 765 Cardinal Dr, Owatonna, MN 55060, as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration. Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled. Notice is also given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said Estate are required to present the same to said Personal Representative or to the Court Administrator within four months after the date of this Notice or said claims will be barred.

Dated: 01/29/2025

/s/ Michael F. Upton, District Court Administrator

/s/ Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator PATTON, HOVERSTEN & BERG, P.A.

Ellie J. James, #505790

215 E Elm Ave PO Box 249

Waseca, MN 56093

Phone: 507-835-5240

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5 and 12, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is:

VonRage Design Studio

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be:

1349 Arden View Dr, Arden Hills, MN 55112

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Paige Hagemann

1349 Arden View Dr, Arden Hills, MN 55112

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: January 23, 2025

Signed: Paige Hagemann

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5 and 12, 2025.

OFFICE OF THE MINNESOTA SECRETARY OF STATE CERTIFICATE OF ASSUMED NAME

Pursuant to Chapter 333, Minnesota Statutes; the undersigned, who is or will be conducting or transacting a commercial business in the State of Minnesota under an assumed name, hereby certifies:

1. The assumed name under which the business is or will be conducted is: Lauren Kirkbride Photography

2. The street address of the principal place of business is or will be: 957 Hanson Rd Shoreview MN 55126 USA

3. The name and street address of all persons conducting business under the above Assumed Name, including any corporation that may be conducting this business.

Lauren Kirkbride

957 Hanson Rd

Shoreview MN 55126 USA

I certify that I am authorized to sign this certificate and I further certify that I understand that by signing this certificate, I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in section 609.48 as if I had signed this certificate under oath.

Dated: January 17, 2025

Signed: Lauren Kirkbride Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5 and 12, 2025.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that on March 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM 2568 Plaza Circle Maplewood, MN 55109 the following property will be sold by public auction by the Sheriff of Ramsey County:

A 2000 Skyline Manufactured Home, VIN number D6300904MAB and any contents therein or about the premises.

This sale will be held to satisfy a claim upon the above-described property held by Town & Country Mobile Home Park LLC. Upon information and belief, this property is owned by Leila Jenny Stansbury and Charlene Ann Stansbury at 500 Riverside Ave Apt 232, Park Rapids, MN 56370. There is a lien on the home owned by Conseco Finance Serv. Corp. located at 4625 River Green Parkway, Duluth GA, 30096.

The amount of the claim against the above referenced property is $12,477.00 computed to the date of the sale at the rate of rent since abandonment of the home plus costs to remedy municipality violation caused by prior occupant, exclusive of the expenses of making said sale.

The grounds for the claim held by the landlord are as stated in M.S.A. §§514.18 (1) and (4), 514.19(2), and 504B.271(1), in that the landlord is holding and storing the abandoned personal property described above to its preservation and care.

Dated: January 24, 2025 Landlord Resource Network, LLC /s/ Patrick Flynn Patrick Flynn (#0403107) Landlord Resource Network, LLC 225 S 6th Street, Suite 3900 Minneapolis, MN 55402 patrick@landlordresource.net

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5, 12 and 19, 2025.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given that on March 20, 2025 at 2:00PM at 3020 Rice S Lot A6, Little Canada, MN 55113 the following property will be sold by public auction by the Sheriff of Ramsey County: A 2006 Skyline Manufactured Home, VIN number 5B300435U and any contents therein or about the premises.

This sale will be held to satisfy a claim upon the above-described property held by Enjoy Communities. Upon information and belief, this property is owned by Cedar Creek Homes Inc. at 14384 BROOKMERE BLVD NW PRIOR LAKE, MN 553723.

The amount of the claim against the above referenced property is $6,990.00 computed to the date of the sale at the rate of rent since abandonment of the home, exclusive of the expenses of making said sale.

The grounds for the claim held by the landlord are as stated in M.S.A. §§514.18 (1) and (4), 514.19(2), and 504B.271(1), in that the landlord is holding and storing the abandoned personal property described above to its preservation and care.

Dated: January 23, 2024 Landlord Resource Network, LLC /s/ Patrick Flynn Patrick Flynn (#0403107) Landlord Resource Network, LLC 225 S 6th Street, Suite 3900 Minneapolis, MN 55402 patrick@landlordresource.net

Attorney for Enjoy Communities

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5, 12 and 19, 2025

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

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-57

NOTICE AND ORDER OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR PROBATE OF WILL, DETERMINATION OF PARTIAL TESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRS, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE, AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Terrence Joseph Galvin, aka Terrence J. Galvin, aka Terrence Galvin, aka Terry Galvin or Terry J. Galvin Decedent

It is Ordered and Notice is given that on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 1:45 p.m. a hearing using remote technology will be held by this Court for the formal probate of an instrument purporting to be the Will of the Decedent dated September 19, 2011, (“Will”), and for the appointment of Maureen M. Galvin, whose address is 14263 Fairway Lane, Becker, MN, 55308 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

In addition, the petition seeks formal determination that the Decedent died partially testate, and requests determination of Decedent’s heirs.

Any objections to the Petition or Will must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real estate and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

Any charitable beneficiary may request notice of the probate proceeding be given to the attorney general pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 501B.41, Subdivision 5.

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

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

BY THE COURT

Reynaldo Aligada, Judge of District Court

Elizabeth Wendt, Referee of District Court

Dated January 24, 2025

Attorney for Petitioner

April E. King

Howse & Thompson, P.A.

3189 Fernbrook Lane N. Plymouth, MN, 55447

Attorney License No: 0308481

Telephone: (763) 577-0150 \ FAX: (763) 577-0151

Email: aking@howselaw.com

Publlshed two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 5 and 12, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY

DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT PROBATE COURT DIVISION

COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-54

NOTICE OF REMOTE HEARING ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION OF INTESTACY, DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP, APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of:

Katrina Anne Clay, a/k/a Katrina A. Clay, Decedent.

NOTICE is given that on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 3:45 p.m. a hearing will be held using remote technology by this Court on the petition for formal adjudication of intestacy, determination of heirship, and for the appointment of Paul Allen Burton, whose address is 4373 Arden View Court, Arden Hills, Minnesota, 55112 as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent in an unsupervised administration.

Information on how to participate in the remote hearing can be obtained by calling the Court at 651-266-8145.

Any objections to the petition must be filed with the Court prior to or raised at the hearing. If proper and if no objections are filed or raised, the personal representative will be appointed with full power to administer the Estate including the power to collect all assets, to pay all legal debts, claims, taxes and expenses, to sell real and personal property, and to do all necessary acts for the Estate. If objections are filed, another hearing may be scheduled.

NOTICE SHALL BE GIVEN by publishing this Notice as provided by law and by mailing a copy of this Notice at least 14 days prior to the hearing date to all interested persons and persons who have filed a demand for notice.

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

BY THE COURT:

Michael F. Upton,. District Court Administrator

BY: Elizabeth Girling, Deputy Court Administrator

Date: January 23, 2025

Attorney for Petitioner:

William P. Volkmar

Dunlap & Seegar, P.A.

30 Third Street SE, Suite 400 Rochester, MN 55904

Attorney License No: 113104

Telephone: (507) 285-9111

Email: wpv@dunlaplaw.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-34 CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL) In re the Estate of William Robert Sternquist, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on January 31, 2025 for informal appointment of personal representative has been filed with the Probate Registrar. No will has been presented for probate. The Amended Application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Marlys Renee Moen, 2515 17th Avenue East, North Saint Paul MN 55109 as Personal Representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as Personal Representative or may object to the appointment of the Personal Representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the Personal Representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.

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

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator

Date: 1/31/2025

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

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

Badger Mutual Insurance Company

Plaintiff vs Crystal Thompson

Defendant

This Summons is directed to Crystal Thompson.

1. You are being sued. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Complaint is attached to this Summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that start a lawsuit and affect your legal rights, even if nothing has been filed with the court and even if there is no court file number on this Summons

2. You must BOTH reply, in writing, AND get a copy of your reply to the person/business who is suing you within 21 days to protect your rights. Your reply is called an Answer. Getting your reply to the Plaintiff is called service.You must serve a copy of your Answer or Answer and Counterclaim (Answer) within 21 days from the date you received the Summons and Complaint

ANSWER: You can find the Answer form and instructions on the MN Judicial Branch website at www.mncourts.gov/forms under the “Civil” category. The instructions will explain in detail how to fill out the Answer form.

3. You must respond to each claim. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you think the Plaintiff should not be given everything they asked for in the Complaint, you must say that in your Answer

4. SERVICE: You may lose your case if you do not send a written response to the Plaintiff. If you do not serve a written Answer within 21 days, you may lose this case by default. You will not get to tell your side of the story. If you choose not to respond, the Plaintiff may be awarded everything they asked for in their Complaint. If you agree with the claims stated in the Complaint, you don’t need to respond. A default judgment can than be entered against you for what the Plaintiff asked for in the Complaint

To protect your rights, you must serve a copy of your Answer on the person who signed this Summons in person or by mail at this address: VanDerHeyden Law Office, P.A. 302 Elton Hills Drive NW, Suite 300 PO Box 6535 Rochester, MN 55903-6535

5. Carefully read the Instructions (CIV301) for the Answer for your next steps.

6. Legal Assistance. You may wish to get legal help from an attorney. If you do not have an attorney and would like legal help: Visit www.mncourts.gov/selfhelp and click on the “Legal Advice Clinics” tab to get more information about legal clinics in each Minnesota county. Court Administration may have information about places where you can get legal assistance.

NOTE: Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still serve a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

7. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an ADR process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota Rules of Practice. You must still serve your written Answer, even if you expect to use ADR.

Dated: February 8, 2024

VANDERHEYDEN LAW OFFICE, P.A. BY: David W. VanDerHeyden (122622) Nicholas M. Rotar (0396880)

Attorneys for Plaintiff Elton Hills Drive NW, Suite 300 Post Office Box 6535 Rochester MN 55903-6535

(507) 281-2315

Published three times in the Vadnais Heights Press on January 29, February 5 and 12, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62·PR-25-52

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In re the Estate of Thomas John Perry, Decedent. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an application for informal probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s Last Will dated March 17, 2007 (“Will”) has been filed with the Probate Registrar, and the application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Tyler Perry, 312 Gardner Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036 as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devlsee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative, or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3-607, and the court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate.

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

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator

Date: February 4, 2025

Attorney for Personal Representative

David C. Olson

Attorney License No.: 169055

Lanners and Olson PA 12805 Highway 55, Suite 102

Plymouth MN 55441

Telephone: 763-550-9892

Email: olsond@landolaw.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 62-PR-25-47

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF INFORMAL PROBATE OF WILL AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS In re the Estate of K athleen Marie Fuller, a/k/a Kathleen M. Fuller, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on February 6, 2025 for informal probate of the above-named Decedent’s Last Will dated October 3, 2016 (“Will”) has been filed with the Probate Registrar, and the Amended Application has been granted.

Notice is also given that the Probate Registrar has informally appointed the following: Timothy L. Etter, 2524 Montana Avenue East, Maplewood MN 55119 as personal representative of the Estate of the Decedent. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative, or may object to the appointment of the personal representative. Unless objections are filed pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 524.3607, and the court otherwise orders, the personal representative has full power to administer the Estate, including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate. Any objections to the probate of the Will, or to the appointment of the personal representative, must be filed with this court, and will be heard by the court after the filing of an appropriate petition and proper notice of hearing.

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

Laura J. Stevens, Probate Registrar

Michael F. Upton, Court Administrator

Date: 2/6/2025

Attorney for Personal Representative

Thomas Pierce Stanton

Attorney License No.: 505677

Klemp & Stanton 2295 Waters Drive

Mendota Heights MN 55120

Telephone: 651-310-1400

E-Mail: tps@klemp-stanton.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on February 12 and 19, 2025.

Above:

Local photography club seeks new members to share, learn, inspire

BY SHANNON GRANHOLM MANAGING EDITOR

Members of an area photography club hope more photographers will attend a monthly meeting to share images and feedback.

The Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club meets from 10 a.m. to noon every third Saturday of every month. The club was founded about 15 years ago by Mike Prokosch.

Current co-presidents of the club are Barry Mullin, of Forest Lake, and Pat Boudreau, of Shoreview.

Mullin did some photography in high school, but he didn’t “get serious” about photography until about 15 years ago. He mostly enjoys photographing Minnesota nature. Boudreau has been interested in

photography for about 10 years. She likes to experiment with landscapes, cityscapes, abstracts and florals.

The two both agree that they aren’t in it to turn their images into a business, but rather they enjoy photography as a hobby. That’s one thing that Mullin said makes the Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club unique from others around: it is noncompetitive. It’s not about who can take the best image, but how to improve the quality of everyone’s photos.

“We learn from others and get feedback,” Mullin explained. “The purpose is to encourage photography and to support the people with an opportunity to share and learn.”

Most of the club’s members are from the northern metro area, but one

member Zooms in to the in-person meeting from North Dakota. Many snowbirds also stay involved in the club throughout the winter via Zoom.

At each meeting, photographers are asked to submit up to five images. The group then goes through each of the images and discusses them.

“It is a lot about sharing. It is good to see other people’s images; sometimes that will inspire you,” Mullin said.

A core group of people are there every month, and a few members drop in every couple of months, but the club is always looking for more members to join in the fun. Mullin said it would be nice to have some “younger members.”

Boudreau said the socialization aspect of the club is important to her.

“It is a good way to find people with

IF YOU GO

What: Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club meeting

When: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 15

Where: Tamarack Nature Center, 5287 Otter Lake Road, White Bear Township

Details: Interested in photography and want to learn from other photographers? Check out Tamarack Nature Center Photo Club. The club meets at the Tamarack Nature Center the third Saturday of each month. Learn by sharing and discussing member images.  All experience levels are welcome.

similar interests,” she said.

In addition to the monthly meetings, the club takes outings to take photographs. Previously, members of the club have traveled to the state Capitol, sunflower fields and various state parks. Boudreau explained that the club would likely travel as far north as Jay Cooke State Park and as far south as Mankato.

For more information on the club, or to join, email TNCPhotoClubinfo@ gmail.com.

Managing Editor Shannon Granholm can be reached at 651-407-1227 or whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

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BARRY MULLIN | CONTRIBUTED

Riding standing wave

MARIANN CYR | CONTRIBUTED Northern hawk owl

ROY HAKALA | CONTRIBUTED

Leaving the waterhole

CLASSIFIEDS

651/2016692 or natasha.northrop@state.mn.us

The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement. The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of the Newspaper. Such credit shall not be given for more than one incorrect insertion unless the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change copy submitted as a "proof," the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless they are received by the Newspaper within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication. If an advertisement is requested to run after copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs. No specific page or position shall be guaranteed. The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney 's fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the

E R V I C E D I R E C T O R Y

David A. Schintz

Roberta Anne Goebel

Age 84, of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. He was preceded in death by his sister, Sally Clover. David is survived by his children, Daniel (Lynn), Robert (Shelly), Paul (Amy), Jean (Joel) Boerboom, Michael (Jodi); 11 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren; wife of 32 years, Kathleen; and sisters, Mary Irwin and Liz Schintz Young. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Church of St. Pius X, 3878 Highland Ave, White Bear Lake, with visitation beginning at 10 AM. Mueller Memorial, www.muellermemorial.com, 651-429-4944.

John Elias

Age 75 of White Bear Lake, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025. Preceded in death by his parents George and Doris Elias; sister Mary Kay (Dickhaus), brother Jim Elias, and sister Joann (McLean). John is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Patricia (Stock) Elias; children Joe (Nicole) Elias, Katie Adrians, Annie (Emilio) Elias Rodriguez and 8 loving grandchildren Jack, Jessie, Lauren, Max, Michael, Charlie, Sam and Evy. He is also survived by his sisters Julie (Sakti) Mahanty and Marge (Bernie) Jordahl; in-laws Patrick McLean, Diane Elias and Steve Dickhaus; and many family members and friends. A memorial service celebrating John’s life will be held at Bradshaw, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd, Stillwater MN, 55082, on Friday, February 21 at 10:30am with a visitation beginning at 9am. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations would be made to Alzheimer’s research.

Betty Roe

Age 87, long-time resident of White Bear Lake and Danbury WI. Betty retired from the White Bear schools. She spent her retirement years with her recently departed husband of 66 yrs, Howard, at their home on Ham Lake in Danbury. Betty left us to join Howard and many departed friends for a pontoon ride and a Manhattan in December. She is survived by son Mike (Ann), daughter Bonnie Howell (Mark), grandchildren, Jason Bauer and Brieanna Howell-Smith, 6 great grandchildren and 1 great-great. Family and friends plan to gather sometime this summer to share great memories.

There was no end to the help Betty would offer others. When visiting her home, the door was always open, the food was forever served and the ice was always properly marinated. Her life reminds us to cherish those who remain and remember those you were blessed to have in your life. While some will forget what you said and others will forget what you did, no one will ever forget how you made them feel. Hail and farewell Betty. What a great run.

Barbara Rosbrook Locke

Age 79, of Vadnais Heights, passed away peacefully January 30, 2025. A celebration of Barb’s life will be Friday, April 25, 2025, 11:00 A.M. at Eagle Brook Church, 2401 Buffalo Street, White Bear Lake with visitation one hour prior to the service. Complete notice to follow. Arrangements with Bradshaw, 651-407-8300.

Was born December 25, 1942 in St. Paul, MN to the late Robert and Helen Poncelet. She was united in marriage to James Goebel on September 8, 1962. Together they built a loving home in Mahtomedi where they raised their two children, Robert and Theresa. Roberta worked at the Regions Hospital gift shop for over 28 years. Upon retirement, she enjoyed gardening, volunteering at the food shelf, and most importantly spending time with her grandsons. Roberta is survived by her son, Robert and his wife, Judy, and their sons, Ben, Will, and Jack; her daughter, Theresa and her husband, Wade, and their sons, James, Cody, and Wyatt. She is also survived by her sisters, Kay Martin, Linda House and her husband Bob, and Debby Pettis; in-laws, Paul Goebel, Tom & Marcella Haeny, and Laverne Schaefer. She is preceded in death by her husband, James, and brothers, Jack & Jerry. Roberta was the self-proclaimed “Welcoming Committee” at Boutwells Landing. We’d like to thank them for their loving care of mom, especially her aides Kelly and Abby. Visitation Sunday, February 16 from 4-7PM at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave., White Bear Lake. Mass of Christian Burial 11AM Monday, February 17 at St. Jude of the Lake Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave., Mahtomedi, with a visitation starting at 10AM at the church. Interment at Evergreen Memorial Gardens. Memorials preferred to Mahtomedi Food Shelf. Mueller Memorial, 651-429-4944, www.muellermemorial.com.

Wendy Jo Shields Shaffer (Wigstrom)

May 22nd, 1989 - January 29th, 2025

35, raised in Mahtomedi, Minnesota and later residing in Charlotte, North Carolina, tragically passed away on January 29th aboard American Airlines Flight 5342. Wendy radiated kindness and joy–sparkles and smiles seemed to follow her everywhere she went. She was driven, but effortless, ambitious yet full of ease. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled.

Born in Minnesota, to Mike and Mary Wigstrom, Wendy was a shining star from the moment she came into this world. She was every parent’s dream: kind, hardworking, endlessly curious, and a friend you wanted your own children to have. Known for her boundless energy and fierce competitiveness, she lived life with an enthusiasm that inspired everyone around her. A three-sport athlete and straight-A student, she was driven by an insatiable curiosity, always eager to expand her knowledge and skills. From fishing and camping in the summer to skating on the lake in the winter, Wendy cherished every moment spent with her family. She was known to call her Mom multiple times every single day– sometimes simply to say I love you. She never let distance prevent her from maintaining those most exceptional relationships in her life. She always had the very best advice for her younger siblings and was so immensely proud of everything they ever did. She was the heart of her family— the kind of sister and daughter who always showed up.

Robert F. Cunningham

October 25, 1932 - January 22, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Cunningham, who left us peacefully on January 22, 2025. Robert was born on October 25, 1932, in Paola, Kansas, and lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedication. Bob grew up in Kansas and attended St. Benedict’s College where he developed a lifelong passion for playing football as quarterback for St. Benedict’s. After graduating, he served in the U.S. Army. Bob went on to pursue higher education at Washburn University, earning a degree in Law. He enjoyed a fulfilling career as an attorney at law, working for the Treasury Department in St. Paul, MN. until his retirement. Bob was known for his dedication, kindness, and professionalism. His work touched many lives, and earned several accolades, including Head Counsel for the Midwest Region. He was a devoted husband and father. Preceded in death are wives Sheryl Carroll Cunningham and Helen Cunningham; parents, Frank and Anna Cunningham; brother James, nephew John and niece Margaret Ann. Survived by Virginia Day; his children Lisa, Susan, Jennifer, Colleen, and Chris; grandchildren Jason, Andrew, Fr. Scott, Derek, and Shane; great grandchildren George, Henry, Patrick, Olivia, and Teddy. Bob was highly active and loved to garden, feed the birds, and tend to his beautiful roses. He loved sports and loved playing tennis, softball, racquetball, and watching the Vikings! Bob was an active member of his Catholic Church and belonged to many organizations. Bob was loved for his generosity and spirit of service, which left a lasting impact on the community. Robert Cunningham’s legacy of love, kindness and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Bob will be deeply missed but not forgotten. Rest in Peace, Bob. You will always be in our hearts. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 AM on February 19, 2025 at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN., with visitation from 10 – 11 AM. A family interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights, MN. Arrangements with Honsafamilyfuneral.com, 651-429-6172.

As her friends and family know, Wendy had a remarkable ability to make everything fun— she filled each moment with laughter and smiles. Her positivity was contagious, and she made the world brighter simply by being in it. She effortlessly made meaningful connections with people from every corner of her life. A 2007 graduate of Mahtomedi High School, Wendy earned a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2012. She dedicated over 12 years of her career to Cargill, most recently as a Senior Director of Business Process Management Food Manufacturing and Supply Chain, where her intelligence, drive, and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.

Wendy’s greatest joy was being a wife and mother. She married Nathan, her soulmate, and together they built a beautiful life full of adventure, mutual support, and deep love. Visiting local breweries and restaurants, getting together with their friends, and traveling were some of their favorite things to do together. Nate embraced every wild, wonderful idea Wendy had, only ever cheering her on. Wendy was immensely proud of their two young sons, Shields (3) and Bennett (1), and she poured her heart and soul into raising them. Wendy created unique and magical experiences for her boys. Always going above and beyond in the ways that only Wendy could. Wendy is survived by her husband, Nathan; their sons, Shields and Bennett; her parents, Mike and Mary Wigstrom; her sister Emily (Alex); her brother, Michael (Jessa); her brother, Patrick; her mother-in-law, Nell Shaffer-Gollnick (Dennis); her sister-in-law, Erin (Harrison); as well as numerous aunts; uncles; cousins; and countless friends. She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Brad; and her beloved grandparents. Wendy’s love for her family and friends was fierce and unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Wendy’s spirit will live on through the connections she made, the loving stories and memories shared, and acts of kindness put forth on her behalf.

In honor of Wendy’s legacy:

Visitation was held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Mueller Memorial Funeral Home, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church, 700 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, MN 55115, with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM at the Church.

A Celebration of Life will follow the funeral from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at JX Venue, 123 2nd St N, Stillwater, MN 55082. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The Wendy Jo Shaffer Foundation at WendyJoShafferFoundation.org.

Mueller Memorial - White Bear Lake, www.muellermemorial.com 651-429-4944.

CONTRIBUTED

Local figure skater performs in New York

Local figure skater Ashleigh Berlien, who trains at the White Bear Lake Sports Center, was invited to perform with the Ice Theatre of New York as part of its New Works and Young Artists Series at Riverbank Stadium in Manhattan. She skated to “Defying Gravity” by Idina Mendel, which is her Intermediate Competitive Freeskate Program this season. It was choreographed by her coach, Rose Esteb.  Berlien will have a solo in the Spring Ice Show at the White Bear Lake Sports Center April 25-27.

NAMES IN THE NEWS

Ashleigh Berlien

Bears’ Feirn, Guidinger qualify for state Alpine

CONTRIBUTED

Zephyr gymnasts extend Metro East dynasty

BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR

White Bear Lake had two entrants in the state Alpine Ski meet as juniors Cooper Feirn and Josie Guidinger qualified at the Section 7 meet at Giants Ridge.

Conditions were extreme at the section: -14 for the first run. The field was challenging, too, said coach Frederick Feirn: “Section 7 has some of the fastest skiers in the state and always makes for a close and competitive race.” There are two runs on different courses and “you have to be close to perfect on both runs to qualify for state.”

First runs went fairly well for most of the Bears, Feirn said. “The second run is the equalizer,” said Eric Shipe, assistant coach, a former Bear who earned multiple state trips along with another assistant, Tony Walfoort. Cooper Feirn was just outside of

the qualifying position after the first run. The second course was set much harder and steeper. “He locked in, and sent it on the pitch to move up eight positions to 14th place, and qualify for the state meet,” said his dad/coach.

Angus Levins was in a great position after the first run but one mistake on the second run took him out of contention.  Robbie Dresen skied to personal best 28th place.

Guidinger skied “one the best second runs of the season,” Feirn said, to move into 16th place and qualify. Haskins skied solid and just missed qualifying, in 23rd place.

The previous week, both Bear teams finished fifth in the Suburban East. Earning all-conference were Feirn, Levin, Harry McNerlin and Guidinger. Getting honorable mention were Dresen and Eva Haskins.

See state meet results online at presspubs.com.

The Mahtomedi gymnasts won the Metro East Conference meet for the 17th straight season at Hastings, scoring a season high 137.975 points. Mahtomedi was also the dual meet champion with a 6-0 record.

Simley was second with 135.525 and North St. Paul third with 124.975 among seven teams. Simley’s Lucy Penttila won all-around with 36.85.

Mahtomedi’s Lucy Otto was fourth all-around (35.225) and Lily Bush ninth

BEARS SPORTS BRIEFS ZEPHYRS SPORTS BRIEFS

NORDIC

SKI

Luke Vipond of Mahtomedi qualified for state by placing seventh in the Section 4 meet in 27:38. The Zephyr boys placed seventh of 11 teams and the girls placed eighth of 12 teams. Liam McChesney placed 23rd and Tim Schussler 36th. Giada Garrity, eighthgrader, led the Zephyr girls with a 23rd-place finish. Annika Winke was 32nd and Isabel Vipond 33rd. Ethan Albrecht, who was conference runnerup behind Vipond, missed the section meet with illness.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Mahtomedi, ranked No. 8 in Class 3A, defeated Tartan 89-32 and South St. Paul 62-29, improving to 10-2 in the Metro East and 17-4 overall. Against Tartan, Grace Prose had 19 points, Anna Greene 16, Ella Frazier 14, and Greta Siess 13. Berkley Blaisdell had six assists and seven points. Presley Albers had seven points. Against SSP, eight players scored between six and 12 points, Prose had 12 and Blaisdell nine. Emily Muetzel, Albers, Ella Frazier and Greene had seven each. Siess and Rena Becker added six each. Muetzel had seven rebounds and Siess six.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Mark Graff led with 34 points as Mahtomedi won at South St. Paul 8066. Willie Roelofs had 16 points, Hank Roelofs eight, and Kellen Johnson seven for the Zephyrs (11-9) against SSP (8-11). Earlier in the week they lost to unbeaten Tartan 67-56. Graff had

21, Willie Roelofs 17 and Hank Roelofs 12. Tartan’s D-I prospect CJ Banks led with 32 points.

ALPINE SKI

Two Mahtomedi athletes qualified for the state meet in the Section 7 meet at Giants Ridge. Oliver Ko placed ninth and Sam MacDonald 18th among over 100 entrants to make the cut. The boys team placed fifth and the girls team placed 16th. The state meet was held Tuesday at Giants Ridge, see presspubs.com for results.

BOYS HOCKEY

Mahtomedi defeated Simley 10-0 with goals by Winston Wright (three), Cael Brummel (two), Devin O’Donnell, Kaden Gagnelius, Laken Decker, Will Seevers and Brock Gutterman. The Zephyrs (7-14-2) lost to Class 2A’s No. 4 ranked Hill-Murray 7-0.

GIRLS WRESTLING

Mahtomedi’s Elizabeth Carlson placed third at 100 pounds and Shelby McFetridge placed fifth at 124 pounds in the Section 3/4 state qualifier at Redwood Falls. The top two advance to state. Carlson won five of seven matches and finished 14-13. McFetridge won three of five and finished 22-6. In the Metro East Invitational at Mahtomedi: Kyra Kamrath placed second at 106 pounds and Olivia Tofte placed second at 130.

Bruce Strand

BOYS BASKETBALL

White Bear Lake beat Spring Lake Park 82-77 and Woodbury 64-48, improving to 10-8. Against Spring Lake Park (10-10), Colin Piper led with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Korey Raheem had 12 points and John Johnson nine points and six rebounds. Against Woodbury (8-12), Raheem sank 14 points, Gavin Krenz 13, Tyler Allshouse 11, Preston Crider eight, Rithy Sain eight and Johnson seven. Krenz made three 3-pointers and Allshouse and Crider two each.

BOYS HOCKEY

White Bear Lake took a 4-0 lead and held on to defeat Park 4-2 at home. The Bears (14-5-3) lost at Centennial 3-2. Against Park (13-9-1), Michael

(33.50). Grace Tronrud placed second on beam (9.05) with Addy Eitel fifth (8.825) and Otto sixth (8.80). Otto was second in floor (9.35) with Bush seventh (8.775) and Adele Schroder ninth (8.70). Cassia Hartman placed fourth on bars (8.575), Otto sixth (8.425), Bush seventh (8.375) and Tronrud eighth (8.25). Otto was eighth in vault (8.65).

Gibson and Tanner Olsen (power play) scored in the first period and Jack Stanius scored in the second and third periods. Leo Gabriel made 26 saves. Centennial (8-15) upset the Bears with three goals by Joey Hemr. Scoring for the Bears were Liam McCoy and Kellen Beck.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Addison Post sank a 3-pointer at the buzzer to lift White Bear Lake over Woodbury 57-56 in their lone game last week. The Bears had a 34-20 halftime lead but went scoreless for eight minutes in the second half to fall behind, only to be rescued by their senior point guard.  Elise Dieterle netted 17 points, Post 14, Chloe Thiessen nine and Sophie Menier eight. Harper Vossen led

Woodbury (10-13) with 16. The Bears are 14-8 overall and 9-5 in the conference.

GIRLS HOCKEY

White Bear Lake’s season ended with a 3-1 loss to Stillwater (7-154) in the first round of sectionals. The Bears finished 7-17-2. Ashley Peltier had the Bears goal, assisted by Ava Maas. Macie Marston made 30 saves.

SWIMMING

White Bear Lake lost to Roseville 105-78. Benedict Hoefer won 100 free (51.56) and 200 free (1:54.80). Anthony Parada Romero won diving (210.80). Lincoln Medin won backstroke (1:05.06).

Bruce Strand

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Luke Vipond

Mahtomedi Nordic Skiing February 12, 2025

Luke Vipond, Mahtomedi Nordic captain, qualified for the state meet last week by placing seventh in Section 4, and placed first in the Metro East Conference meet a week earlier. The 6-foot, 170-pound senior made all-conference three years. “Each year, Luke has enhanced his technique, strength, conditioning, and leadership skills,” said coach David Bridges. He is a great example for the team, Bridges said, “of what can be achieved through perseverance and determination.” Vipond is also a club swimmer and intends to swim in college.

Bruce Strand

The Zephyrs championship lineup — Front, from left: Ruby Greer, Ava DeZelar, Izzy Carle, Lily Bush, Cassia Hartmann. Back: Coach Ashley Walsh, Margot Bruner, Addi Eitel, Keely Bohm, Addison Briske, Grace Tronrud, Adele Schroeder, Lucy Otto, Coach Debbie Driscoll

Cooper Feirn and Josie Guidinger were photographed by coach Fred Feirn while practicing Wednesday.