Plein air painting in progress
Suhaila Ihsanullah works on a plein air oil painting overlooking White Bear Lake along Lake Avenue Saturday morning. She was among the artists recently spotted around the area capturing the local landscape and landmarks as part of the White Bear Center for the Arts sponsored Into Nature Plein Air Competition. En plein air, French for “in open air,” is a style of painting in which painters step outside of their studio walls and into nature. Completed paintings will be on display at the arts center starting on Aug. 15 with an Into Nature Community Reception and Award Ceremony.
Becker selected as next county manager
Ling Becker is the next county manager after being selected by the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners following an extensive national search.
“I am honored and excited to energize our amazing employees for this next chapter by highlighting the importance of their work and empowering them to make a meaningful difference in collaboration with our community,” Becker said.
Becker first joined the county in 2019 as the Director of Ramsey County Workforce Solutions and the Executive Director of the Workforce Investment Board providing innovative employment and training services to job seekers and businesses for Ramsey County.
Prior to that, she was Executive Director for the Vadnais Heights Economic Development Corporation and Project Administrator for the Metropolitan Council, Transportation and Transit Development Office.
She also ran her own consulting company providing support services for the non-profit and public sectors and has served on many boards.
“Counties are vital in improving the lives and well-being of our residents. This is at the very core of my being as an immigrant who relied on government support when my family first established itself here and as a long-time public servant,” said Becker.
In her new role, Becker is the chief administrative officer of the county, responsible for implementing policy and overseeing daily operations for the county, including a budget over $8M and more than 4,000 county staff.
Students learn what makes governments tick
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Mahtomedi High School
students Max Newcome and Xavier Knauss both have an enormous interest in understanding how government works. But they never expected to participate in its processes firsthand.
Both students were chosen by the American Legion Boys State of Minnesota to participate in its week-long summer leadership/ citizenship program at St. John’s University.
The event, which ran from
June 9 through 15, caters to Minnesota high school students entering their senior year. Onsite, students learn about the process behind city, county, and state governments. Newcome and Knauss were two of 165 students chosen across the state to participate.
“I always had an interest in national government, but I never really knew anything about local government,” said Newcome. “At Boys State, I learned about many interesting things happening at the local level. Honestly, it piqued my interest while I was there.” Newcome and Knauss’
government interests partially come from their respective family histories. Newcome’s grandfather, Tom, was an army officer in World War II. Tom and his wife, Esther, were also heavily involved in state and local politics and community volunteer organizations around White Bear Lake. Knauss’s great-grandfather, Harris, was a World War II veteran serving in the Army Corps of Engineers in Okinawa.
“Learning about my family history makes me feel responsible for learning about government,
SEE BOY’S STATE, PAGE 14
PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Max Newcome (left) and Xavier Knauss (right) were picked by the American Legion Boys State of Minnesota to learn about city, county and state governments at St. John’s University.
a time of conflict are eligible to join the VFW. Immediate family members of veterans or currently serving military personnel who meet that criteria are eligible to join the Auxiliary. For information about membership or upcoming events, email infovfwpost1782@gmail. com.
VFW Post 1782 and Auxiliary members elected their new leadership for the upcoming program year. Commander Bob Krominga was elected to serve a second term, and Sara McFee was elected as President of the Auxiliary. Both terms are until the state convention in June 2025. Veterans who have served overseas during
Kris Kowalski Christiansen has been named 2024 Grocer of the Year by the Minnesota Grocers Association. Christensen is chief executive officer of Kowalski’s and serves as the president of the board of directors for the Minnesota Grocers Association. She also sits on the board of directors for the Midwest Active Citizenship Initiative and Kowalski’s 4 Kids, a nonprofit organization devoted to at-risk youth in the Twin Cities.
Washington County Commissioner Stan Karwoski, District 2, has been appointed to three committees on the National Association of Counties (NACo). The appointments include Environment, Energy and Land Use Steering Committee (Air Quality Subcommittee) as Subcommittee Vice Chair; Membership Standing Committee; and Rural Action Caucus (RAC). Commissioner Karwoski’s district includes Birchwood, Pine Springs, Willernie, and portions of White Bear Lake and
CONTRIBUTED
The White Bear Lake Lions Club recently announed new board members, including Jim Francis, Rheanna O’Brien, James Anderson, Ivy Hunt, John Tomlinson, Carisa Spofford Vermeersch, Ann Jacobson, Kate Hunt, and Scott Wilson. New board members Pat Johnson, Kea Knox Behnke, Noreen Shepard, and Rick Goplen are not pictured.
COMMUNITY BRIEFS
Volunteers needed for buckthorn removal
The city of Mahtomedi is seeking volunteers to help remove buckthorn at Streetcar Park on Aug. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. Volunteers should bring work gloves and a sturdy pair of shoes. Buckthorn pullers will be provided on-site. Volunteers are encouraged to stay as long as they can. For questions and further information, please get in touch with Cindy Rasmussen at cindyras49@gmail.com.
Become an Extension Master Gardener
The application period to become a University of Minnesota Extension
Master Gardener volunteer begins Aug. 1 and runs through until Oct. 1. Extension Master Gardeners bring science-based horticulture knowledge and practices to their communities and promote healthy landscapes through volunteer efforts. Core education for the Master Gardener program is online and spread out over 14 weeks. Individuals commit to complete online training and 50 hours of volunteering in the first year. After the first year, they commit 25 hours to annual volunteer work.
To learn more about the program and apply, visit z.umn.edu/MG_info or call 612-625-9864.
Finding happiness here
Ruth Gibson of White Bear Lake sent a letter to me back in 2020 which included an article written by the Reverend Robert Legette Alexander, D.D. He was the third USS Yorktown Protestant chaplain in 1943. The article came from the book Living Day By Day with Dr. “A.”
I had the opportunity to visit by phone recently with Ruth, who is now 99 years of age and still active. Ruth knew A. J. Werlein and his wife, Nancy, who lived in White Bear Lake for many years. A.J. was a Navy pilot in World War II and the USS Yorktown was his carrier.
About the Town
Gene Johnson
Reverend Alexander’s article follows:
The story is told of a certain preacher who on one occasion asked all in his congregation who wanted to go to Heaven to stand up. All rose but one man. Then he asked those to stand who wanted to go to hell… nobody rose. The puzzled person then asked the non-cooperating brother where he wanted to go. He replied, “Nowhere; I like it here!”
Yes, it is true. The normal Christian likes it here and finds his happiness here. As someone has expressed it, “If he can’t find happiness where he is, he is not likely to find it anywhere.” This is because happiness is the kind of thing a person makes for himself and carries about with him. Happy is the man who is too brave to be victimized by wishful thinking, imaginary troubles, or easy escapes. Happy is the man who has the conviction and the courage to tackle that which is difficult, and to find joy in the struggle. The brave heart is the happy heart, for it fears no man or thing, but finds God and goodness and love and truth in all things everywhere. So far, I’ve said two things. No. 1. “Happy is the man who knows that he must find happiness where he is.” No. 2. “Happy is the man who is not afraid to tackle that which is difficult.” Now, can you think of some other prime requisites that should be added to traditional evidence to support premise No. 1 and No. 2? Try this on for size, or rather for prime requisite No. 3. Happy is the man who realizes that by the very nature of life you cannot please everybody all the time or at any one time; and knowing this, you will never be upset when you do not. Regardless of your position in life, you must understand that every person isn’t going to like you equally well. Some are going to be jealous of what you have or envious because of your ability. Others will rejoice in your mistakes, your failures, even your sufferings. Others, for no reason at all, will not like you. Yes, happy is the man, and happy will you be, if you can forgive and overlook, refuse to hold grudges, try to get even and hit back.
No. 4. Happy is the man who realizes that he must live in this world as it is. When an earthquake threatened, a family sent their small son to safety in an aunt’s home a hundred miles away. After two days they received a telegram saying, “Returning the boy; send earthquake.” Figuratively speaking, there is either a small boy or an earthquake where you live. Changing the place where you live is not the answer. The ultimate secret of quiet, simple, healthy-minded living is to identify yourself with a devotion to life that lifts you above the small petty things that happen to you, a devotion so high that God alone is above you. He’s busy, but you will find that at least he’s quiet. True? True!
Gene Johnson is the interim publisher of Press Publications.
Primer on Minnesota bike laws, safe trail behavior
As an advocacy group dedicated to safety for all users of the transportation system, the Lake Links Association was pleased to hear that a Press reader suggested a guest column about Minnesota laws related to bicycle safety. This is a broad topic. Today we’ll go over some basics.
Movers & Shakers
Mike Brooks
Bicycles may ride on Minnesota roads, except where restricted. They must ride in the direction of traffic. Locally, for example, that means bicycles can ride on Highway 61. Here’s why: Minnesota Statutes 169.011 defines “traffic” as “pedestrians, ridden or herded animals, vehicles, streetcars, and other conveyances, either singly or together, while using any highway for purposes of travel.” If you are interested in how Minnesota defines e-bikes, bicycle path, bicycle route, bikeway, etc. this is your statute to learn more.
You may be asking why slower-
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than-car modes of transportation have equal standing to motorized vehicles on most roads. It’s because the transportation system is based on position, not speed. It’s a first come, first served model. Regardless of whether we drive a bike or a car, we yield to who is in a lane before us.
A couple other Minnesota laws of interest:
• Motorists must maintain a 3-foot clearance when passing a bike.
• Motorists can cross a double yellow line to the left of the roadway to pass a bicycle going in the same direction when it is safe to do so.
• Bicyclists must obey all traffic signs and signals.
• A bicyclist may proceed through a stop sign without stopping after slowing to a speed that permits stopping and confirming that no other vehicles are in the area. There is no law requiring bicyclists to use a bike lane.
Bicyclists may need to use adjacent lanes for a number of safety reasons and need to position themselves where they feel safest.
Let’s take a quick look at shared use trails, like the Mark Sather
number for verification.
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Trail along Lake Avenue. The posting of city council accepted etiquette rules is important. The Lake Links Association would ask bicyclists on the trail with walkers, runners, dog walkers, etc. to consider trail congestion and adjust speed down to correspond with other trail traffic. Something else we’d like to see on trail etiquette signs around the lake is educating people on bikes to conversationally call out to people they are riding up behind. Don’t yell, and certainly don’t simply whizz by. Say “hi,” “coming up on your left,” “nice day,” “you’ve got a lucky dog” … something that conveys humanity and gently raises awareness. These are some high-level thoughts on a topic that has lots written about it. Another great resource is our handbook bikemn. org/handbook. If anyone has specific questions you would like Lake Links Association to research and answer, please email us at lakelinksmn@gmail.com. If after reading 169.011 you have questions, it’s time to reach out to your local legislator.
Mike Brooks is the Chair of Lake Links Association.
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WHITE BEAR PRESS/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES
PAID LETTER
Concerns about character
I recently read about current State Representative Brion Curran’s egregious DUI in October, 2023. It happened on a workday morning where Rep. Curran was twice the legal limit and had no idea she was even in Chisago County. As a former law enforcement officer, Rep. Curran - of all people - should have known the dangers of drunk driving. After pleading guilty, and serving time in jail, Rep. Curran continued to serve as a state representative and is seeking re-election. I come from a family of public school teachers. Frankly we are appalled by her behavior. I am a longtime resident of the area, and am endorsing Rep. Curran’s DFL opponent, TJ Malaskee. TJ is extremely involved in our community. He runs the Maplewood Historical Society. He is a champion for education, prioritizes choice and human rights, and is a strong advocate for our environmentincluding the jewel of our community, White Bear Lake.
Please join me in voting for TJ Malaskee for State Representative to serve as an advocate for Birchwood Village, Gem Lake, Vadnais Heights, City of White Bear Lake, and parts of White Bear Township.
Andrew James City of Gem Lake
PAID LETTER
Question integrity
Recently Senator Heather Gustafson issued a statement denouncing her colleague, Senator Mitchell, and calling for her resignation. “You are entitled to due process. You’re not entitled to political position,” Sen. Gustafson declared. While I do not condone Sen. Mitchell’s actions or suggest she should evade accountability for the non-violent burglary charges against her, I must question Sen.Gustafson’s integrity. Has she forgotten her support of Brion Curran, her handpicked candidate for House District 36B, who has one of the most egregious DWI incidents I’ve encountered?
Sen. Gustafson and Rep. Curran may suffer from political amnesia, but we should not. We must remember that Rep. Curran was arrested with a blood alcohol content twice the legal limit. After hitting an object, she refused a field sobriety test, believed she was in St. Paul when she was actually in northern Chisago County, and was not even residing in the district she was elected to representours. This all occurred on a Monday morning, and she could have easily killed someone. Is this the caliber of politicians we want representing us? Rep. Curran faces a primary challenger on August 13. Senator Heather Gustafson will need to demonstrate her integrity over the next two years before she is up for re-election in 2026. As Sen.Gustafson said “These seats do not belong to us. They are the people’s seats.” If our elected officials fail to hold each other accountable, it falls upon us to do so at the ballot box.
Sue Orlowski White Bear Lake
We achieved a transformational level of progress which will benefit Minnesota for generations. After years of divided government that prevented meaningful progress, we got the job done. DFLers passed legislation investing in public schools, creating a fairer economy for working- and middle-class families, and protecting Minnesotans’ rights. Minnesota has always had a strong economy, but too often it is tilted in favor of corporations and the wealthiest citizens. In this Legislature, we passed wins for workers, families, and seniors, including a Child Tax Credit projected to cut child poverty by a third, a Social Security tax cut that eliminates taxes for 75% of seniors, and property tax cuts and improved renters rebate that will keep more money in family budgets. There is still work to be done, but we made good progress to help Minnesota families.
I proudly served on the Public Safety and Judiciary committees, bringing my experience as a former peace officer to increase funding for law enforcement, investing in victim supports, and enact common-sense gun violence prevention measures like red flag laws and universal background checks. I passed multiple bills into law this year: protecting judges and staff from online attacks and creating a State Board of Civil Legal Aid to ensure our system doesn’t just work for the wealthy. Those provisions passed 107-19 on the House Floor. On the Human Services Committee, I advocated for supports for our neighbors with disabilities, and we made record investments in funding for those who care for our most vulnerable.
I am proud of our work these past two years, but the work is not over. I am dedicated to building a state that truly works for everyone. Thank you for the opportunity to serve our district, and please remember to vote this in the Primary Election in August and the General Election in November.
Brion Curran White Bear Lake
PAID LETTER
Candidate understands local issues
In an extremely rare step, the DFL party chose to not endorse the incumbent Brion Curran for a second term in the Minnesota House. Instead, voters in District 36B will decide between T.J. Malaskee and Curran in the Aug. 13 DFL primary.
I will be voting for T.J. Malaskee. T.J.’s commitment to community service, relationship building, and understanding local issues is exceptional. T.J. understands that being a House Rep. is a multifaceted role that involves more than being at the Capitol to vote. He understands it takes all of us working together to deliver critical resources and service to our residents and to all Minnesotans. His experience in working with people with different points of view makes him the best candidate to reach across the aisle, find common ground, and make Minnesota the best it can be for everyone.
Vadnais Heights Days events begin next week
The City of Vadnais Heights’ annual community celebration is set to kick-off on Monday, Aug. 12 with the Medallion Hunt. Clues will be posted once a day at City Hall, Community Park, Kohler Meadows Park, at the city website: cityvadnaisheights. com/465/Medallion-Hunt, and on the medallion hotline at 651-2046017. A cash prize of $500 will go to whomever finds the medallion. A pickleball tournament will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 14 beginning at 6 p.m. at the courts at Bridgewood Park. Beginners ages 13 and up are welcome; however, players should be able to keep score, know games rules, and be able to serve and keep a short rally. A maximum of 12 teams can participate, and are guaranteed to play 5 games in a round robin format. To sign up, go to cityvadnaisheights.com/1027/ Tournaments.
The Annual Senior Picnic is Thursday, Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Vadnais Heights Commons. Seniors can visit with local senior service organizations prior to the luncheon, live entertainment by Jim Kirkendall, and free Bingo. Registration for the picnic is $5 and required by Thursday, Aug. 8. Register in person at city hall or online at cityvadnaisheights.com/468/SeniorPicnic.
Vadnais Heights Days will be in full swing Saturday, Aug. 18 and Sunday, Aug. 19 with kids activities, a vendor market, food, live music and entertainment. A fireworks show is scheduled for 9 p.m. Saturday, and the Grande Parade is scheduled for noon Sunday. All Vadnais Heights Days events are held at Community Park, unless noted otherwise. For a schedule of events and other information, go to cityvadnaisheights.com.
At Good Samaritan Society – Heritage Place of Roseville, you can relax and enjoy life and we’ll take care of the rest.
PAID LETTER
‘Minnesota Miracle 2.0’
The Legislature adjourned on May 20, completing my first term serving White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights, Birchwood Village, Gem Lake, and parts of White Bear Township. I so appreciate the opportunity to be our community’s representative in Saint Paul.
He is endorsed by Ramsey County Commissioners Victoria Reinhardt and Trista Martinson and Vadnais Heights City Councilmember Steve Rogers. Join me in voting for T.J. Malaskee on Aug. 13. Barbara Clark
Join our friendly independent living community and enjoy new reduced rates, plus your third month free. You’ll also receive $1,500 toward moving expenses.
Offer expires Sept. 30, 2024.
Call (651) 515-2973 for more information.
COPS&COURTS
WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS
The Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office reported the following selected incidents in Vadnais Heights:
Vadnais Heights
• A Falcon Heights girl, 14, was cited July 1 for shoplifting from a business in the 800 block of County Road E.
• A set of license plates was reported stolen July 1 from the 4300 block of Buckingham Court.
• Deputies assisted Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies July 2 as they helped to arrest at St. Paul man, 43, in the 3200 block of Highway 61 on an indecent exposure warrant out of Ramsey County.
• A caregiver for the complainant’s mother was reported July 2 for writing herself fraudulent checks from his mother’s account in the 1200 block of County Road E.
• A Little Canada man reported that someone stole his Honda CR-V July 3 while it was parked outside his apartment in the 70 block of Twin Lake Blvd.
• A storage locker in the 3200 block of Highway 61 was reported broken into July 3 and thousands of dollars worth of tools stolen.
• Deputies responded to a report of a shoe thief stealing 10 pairs of shoes from the Famous Footwear in the 900 block of County Road E on July 3.
• A vehicle was reported broken into July 5 while its owner was fishing at Sucker Lake in the 20 block of County Road F. After the passenger side window of the SUV was smashed in, the thief stole several items.
• A porta-potty in the 400 block of Bear Avenue S. was reported burned out by vandals on July 5.
• A White Bear Lake man on
July 5 reported that someone stole a $500 jack from his vehicle as it sat parked at a gas pump in the 1000 block of County Road E while he was inside paying.
• A vehicle parked in the 100 block of Primrose Court at 5:31 a.m. July 5 was reported broken into and a bag, knife, speaker and other items stolen.
• A Vadnais Heights man on July 6 reported observing someone smash the windshield of his vehicle with a baseball bat as it was parked at the intersection of Twin Lake Blvd. and Bankers Drive. The assailant ran away before returning to spray the complainant in the face with bear spray.
White Bear Township
• A woman out for a walk in the 5200 block of Otter Lake Road at 8:40 a.m. June 30 reported finding a discarded pellet gun. Deputies came out to recover the gun.
A Vadnais Heights man, 35, was arrested June 30 in the 5200 block of Elk Street on an active Ramsey County warrant for receiving stolen property, after deputies were called out to a report of a domestic disturbance.
• A wallet was reported stolen June 30 from a vehicle parked outside a business in the 5100 block of Stillwater Court.
A construction company employee on July 1 reported a $2,000 cut-off saw stolen from a job site in the 5600 block of Centerville Road.
• A Shoreview man on July 2 reported losing his permit to purchase a firearm at a business in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive sometime during the week.
• Cub Foods on July 4 reported the theft of 11 packages of fireworks, valued at more than $400. The vehicle involved in the theft displayed stolen license plates.
The White Bear Police Department reported the following selected incidents:
• Officers were called to the 1200 block of Birch Lake Blvd for a complaint of a motorcycle speeding. The driver was located and advised to drive with care.
• Officers took report of fraud July 17 in the 4700 block of Highway 61.
• A garage burglary occurred July 17 in 4400 block of Lake Avenue S.
• An officer was sent to check on a dog locked in an SUV near County Road E July 18.
• Officers took note of a stolen backpack July 18 from a vehicle in the 4800 block of White Bear Parkway.
• Officers were flagged down at Marketfest July 18 to help with a man who left a bar with alcohol. An officer assisted.
• Officers were dispatched July 18 to the area of Ninth Street and Otter Lake Road for a vehicle driving recklessly in the area.
• Officers conducted a traffic stop July 18 in the 3600 block of Van Dyke Street. The female driver, 46, of White Bear Lake was found to have four active misdemeanor warrants for her arrest. Officers responded to a theft July 19 in the 3600 block of Hoffman Road. Consumable goods were stolen.
• An officer was dispatched July 19 to the 2200 block of County Road E for juveniles running in the street.
• Officers were dispatched July 19 to the intersection of County Road F and White Bear Avenue for a crash between an E-bike and a vehicle. Minor injuries were sustained.
• Officers took reports of a noise complaints July 19 in the 1700 block of County Road E and the 3200 block of Karth Road.
• A concerned citizen reported an open door at South Campus July 19. Officers learned it was left open by construction workers.
Officers came across a vehicle broken down July 20, blocking the road at Cedar Avenue.
• Officers were sent to check the area near Hoffman Road and County Road F July 21 for a vehicle swerving in the roadway.
• Officers responded to a business July 21 in the 1900 block of Buerkle Road and removed an individual from the business.
• A resident called officers July 24 to report that a dog charged at her dog in the 3400 block of White Bear Avenue. No injuries were recorded.
• Officers received a call about kids riding motor bikes July 25 in a parking lot in the 3900 block of Van Dyke Street. The kids were gone when officers arrived.
• A house was vandalized July 25 overnight in the 4600 block of Bald Eagle Avenue.
• Two dogs were locked inside a vehicle July 26 in the 4900 block of Lake Avenue. The owner came out of the residence and advised officer that he was inside grabbing something. Officers responded July 27 for a fireworks complaint in the 3700 block of Midland Avenue.
• Officers removed a male from a business in the 2000 block of County Road E July 28 at the request of the business for disorderly behavior.
• Officers were dispatched July 28 to the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue due to reports of suspicious vehicle sitting in front of a business for two hours. Officers located the driver, a 35-year-old female from Woodbury. She was found to be impaired by a controlled substance. She was arrested on 4th degree DWI charges.
Man sentenced to probation for Christmas Day incident
A Little Canada man has been sentenced in the Christmas Day ransacking of Tousely Motorsports in Vadnais Heights.
Austin Erickson, 31, was convicted of felony criminal damage to property and sentenced to
3 years probation. He has also been ordered to pay $94, 707 in resitution and to stay away from Tousely Ford.
As previously reported by the Press, Erickson broke into Tousely Motorsports the morning of Dec. 25,
2023. He was apprehended on an ATV after attempting to flee Ramsey County Sheriffs deputies. Several vehicles inside the business were damaged, as was the building.
Aug. 13 primary election: How it works
Primary election day in Minnesota is Tuesday, Aug. 13, giving voters the opportunity to choose the candidates they want to see on the ballot in the Nov. 5 general election.
In several state and county races, there are multiple candidates who have filed to run for an office. The primary ballot includes both partisan and nonpartisan offices. Partisan candidates are listed by the major political party they affiliate with. Voters may only vote for candidates from one political party; however, they do not have to register with a specific political party. Voters can vote for one candidate running for each of the offices.
Candidates running for nonpartisan offices do not have a political party affiliation, and voters can vote for any one candidate.
Any registered Minnesota voter can vote in the primary. The
partisan candidates in the Press circulation area on the Aug. 13 primary ballot include:
United States Senator:
• Republican Party candidates: John Berman, Loner Blue, Joe Fraser, Alycia Gruenhagen, Patrick Munro, Raymond Petersen, Christopher Seymore Sr., and Royce White.
• Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL) candidates: Steve Carlson, Ahmad Hassan, George Kalberer, Amy Klobuchar, and Ole Savior
United States Representative District 4:
• Republican candidates: May Lor Xiong, Gene Rechtzigel
• (DFL) candidate: Betty McCollum
State Representative, District 36 B: (includes White Bear Lake, Vadnais Heights, Gem Lake,
Birchwood, and parts of White Bear Township)
• Republican candidate: Patty Bradway
• DFL candidates: Brion Curran, T.J. Malaskee
State Representative District 41A: (includes Grant)
Republican candidates: Wayne Johnson, Grayson McNew
• DFL candidate: Lucia Wroblewski
The nonpartisan candidates in the Press circulation area on the Aug. 13 primary ballot include: Ramsey County Commissioner District 7: Kevin “KB” Berglund, Kelly Miller, Sarah Yang, and Michelle Yener
Compiled by Amy Johnson
WHAT’S HAPPENING
WHITE BEAR FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Friday, Aug. 9
Where: Clark Street between Second and Third Streets
Details: More than 50 vendors and growers each week.
Contact: whitebearlake.org
AUTHOR VISIT
When: 10-11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9
Where: Lake Country Booksellers, 4766 Washington Square
Details: Visit and book signing with acclaimed White Bear Lake-based children’s book author David LaRochelle. Contact: facebook.com/people/LakeCountry-Booksellers
MAHTOMEDI AREA FARMERS MARKET
When: 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Aug. 10
Where: Veterans Memorial Park
Details: Local growers, artisans, community resources. Contact: mahtomedimarket.wixsite. com/mahtmarket
MOVIE IN THE PARK
When: Dusk Saturday, Aug. 10
Where: Polar Lakes Park,1280
Hammond Rd., White Bear Township
Details: Bring a lawn chair or banket and bug spray and watch a free family-friendly movie outdoors. “Trolls Band Together” shows on Aug. 10. See weather updates on facebook. Contact: facebook.com/ WhiteBearTownshipMNOfficialSite
SUMMER LAWN CONCERT
When: 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11
Where: Hanifl Performing Arts Center, 4941 Long Ave.
Details: Enjoy a “genre-bending” musical performance by The OK Factor. Rain or shine; pay-what-youwant admission. Contact: lakeshoreplayers.com
POPS ON THE PORCH
When: 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8
Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Avenue
Details: Enjoy the Big Band sounds of the Moonlight Serenaders on the lawn of the Fillebrown House. Free; bring blankets, chairs and picnic. Contact: 651-407-5327 or whitebearhistory.org
MIDWEST SKI OTTERS SHOWS
When: 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11
Where: Little Goose Lake
Details: White Bear-based team of 120 amateur skiers performs weekly throughout the summer. Contact: skiotter.com
BIRCHWOOD SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
When: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11
Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park
Details: 5 person Ensemble Aventura performs.
ST. PAUL HIKING CLUB
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13
Where: Ramsey County Beach, 5050
Lake Ave., White Bear Lake
Details: Walk along the lake and downtown neighborhood streets, approx. 3 miles.
Contact: stpaulhike.com
CAR SEAT CLINIC
When: 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 13
Where: Mahtomedi Fire Hall, 800 Stillwater Rd.
Details: Certified car seat technicians are on hand to properly install children’s car seats. Free; appointment required by e-mail. Contact: cpsdiana@hotmail.com
VADNAIS HEIGHTS DAYS SENIOR PICNIC
When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15
Where: Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 East County Rd. F
Details: Visit with senior service organizations then enjoy lunch catered by Jimmy’s, live entertainment and Bingo. Pre-register by Aug. 8.
Contact: 651-204-6060 or cityvadnaisheights.com/468/SeniorPicnic
VALLEY CONCERT WINDS AT HERITAGE SQUARE PARK
When: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 15
Where: Heritage Square Park, 3380 Heritage Ct., Stillwater
Details: Free, family friendly outdoor concert, the final summer performance of the community wind ensemble. Concert includes variety of music in orchestral and jazz styles, along with marches and film scores. Contact: sites.google.com/view/ valleyconcertwinds/home
FRIDAYS WITH FIREFIGHTERS
When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Aug. 16
Where: South Fire Station, 2240 County Road E, White Bear Lake
Details: Young children and parents can join the fire department for fun and safety education. Free.
UKRANIAN STUDENT PICNIC
When: 11:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 16.
Where: West Park, 2350 11th St., White Bear Lake
Details: White Bear Lake and Mahtomedi high school students are invited to meet and socialize with Ukrainian students who have been staying in the area. Activities include lunch, swimming, games, and beach volleyball. Contact: 651-402-8493
White Bear Lake Area Church Directory
Worship
at 10:00am Charleston Event Center 4525 White Bear Pkwy WBL, MN 55110 faithtwincities.com
PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
The real dogs of White Bear Lake Long-trek hiker stops to visit mom
BY RICKA MCNAUGHTON SPECIAL TO THE PRESS
They can be wickedly colorful characters. They tend to stick their noses anywhere they like, hang the consequences. Some of them will do anything for attention. You can get addicted to watching them just do what they do. They’re the Real Dogs of White Bear Lake and I’ll be bringing you some quick takes on their everyday stories of love, loss, conniving, redemption and aspiration, one “tail” at a time. Say hi to Pippi, a 7-year-old English Bulldog. Actually, there’s nothing she’d like better.
She has enough fans on the ground in White Bear Lake to be a social media influencer. But she has neither fairness of face nor the blind ambition for pushing product. Pippi is simply what some would call a piece-a-work – a grinning, stubby-legged, multi-chinned
Eloise has completed molting and looks spectacular. Her parents continue to take great care of her, with some fun noted differences in their parenting styles. Eloise remains one very happy and lucky chick.
chonk whose greatest pleasure is to meet other friendly people and dogs with the least amount of effort expended.
Her owners, Anna and John Costello, long time White Bear Lake residents, try to take Pippi on a healthy exercise outing nearly every day on Lake Avenue, but Pippi’s love of social contact holds more allure for her than racking up a daily step count. Her favorite part of the deal is getting to sit and sun herself afterward.
Pippi came to the Costellos as a puppy when her previous owner experienced some life-changing circumstances and could no longer care for her. But Pippi landed well. She enjoys streaming dog TV channels, featuring content that’s cleverly curated for dogs and their humans. It’s been observed that Pippi seems especially taken with stories concerning the proud heritage of the English Bulldog as a working mascot for many an institution. Possibly she daydreams about making public appearances that bring people joy and pride in tradition, as long as she could go at her own pace.
Pippi does well for a velocitychallenged creature built like a small tank with teeth. Demand through the years for the English Bulldog’s iconic appearance has led to inbred health defects that have compromised mobility and breathing in
many individuals. While some breeders are striving to improve the health outlook of these dogs, Norway and the Netherlands have gone so far as to ban their breeding altogether. The Costellos bear no responsibility for how English Bulldogs came to be engineered. They and Pippi’s original owner simply wanted to give this good girl her very best leg up in life. And if you spot her on Lake Avenue, tell her not to give up her dreams.
Ricka McNaughton lives in the White Bear Lake area and enjoys animals of all kinds. To share a story about a 4-legged friend, e-mail news@presspubs.com.
Michael Goshey is on a hike of epic proportions. Next week, his hike will take him right into the heart of White Bear Lake. Goshey is currently on a one-man hike across the United States. Goshey began his trek on May 17 in Seattle, Washington, and hopes to complete his journey in Delaware City, Delaware by late October. By next week, Goshey plans to be in White Bear Lake to visit his mother, Carole Laughary, at her home.
Born and raised in St. Paul, Goshey resides with his wife, Wendy, in Spokane Valley, Washington. He is an avid hiker and in the past ten years has hiked trails including the Appalachian Trail in 2015, the Continental Divide Trail in 2019, and the Pacific Crest Trail in 2022.
“I had a lot of stress built up in my life beforehand and took a year off to decompress,” said Goshey of his motivation for hiking.
“Being out in nature felt like a great place to accomplish that and do something
healthy. Not only did it relax me mentally, but physically, it felt great too.”
Goshey carries his food, sleeping, cooking, and other supplies in a backpack. Though he mostly sleeps in a tent, Goshey occasionally stays in a hotel for one to two nights weekly to shower and do laundry. He also stops at local grocery stores to buy extra food for his journey.
Goshey says the hike is around 3,000 miles, and he tries to average between 20 to 30 miles a day. He and Wendy keep in touch daily through calls and texts.
“I’m very proud of him,” said Laughary.
“Perseverance is his strongest quality. He’ll keep going at his goal until he gets it. He’s a really good, likable person.”
With molting now finished, Eloise has all her new flight and contour feathers firmly in place and looks spectacular. Eloise’s wing flaps have taken on a new dimension, with all the new feathers and her increased body mass. From afar, she almost looks like a year-old juvenile. We often wait several minutes to catch these wing flaps, which typically follow long stretches of fishing and diving. Always worth the wait! During the last week, the parents switched up their routines, with papa taking morning shifts with Eloise. We observed some marked differences in behaviors and exchanges between Eloise and papa Loon. Papa was far more generous with his tolerance of
the neck-circling behaviors, that also included Eloise pulling at his feathers. He let this go on for several minutes at a time and appeared to enjoy the contact. Mama Loon, on the other hand, had little patience when it came to touching her feathers, and often abruptly ended the exchange with a sudden and deep dive. Eloise has had to “earn” the privilege of circling her mama’s neck. There also appeared to be more splashing, synchronized diving, and foraging during papa’s shifts. Although there are some noted differences in their parenting styles, both are on the same page when it comes to ensuring the safety of their chick. Fishing remains a priority. The parents continue to deliver
fish of all sizes, with mama Loon being the more generous of the two. Eloise gladly accepts all fish deliveries. We doubt that she is keeping score. We did not observe any flight lessons or attempts to fly solo, which was probably a good thing, given the wild boat and plane traffic, during the last two weeks. The next two weeks will be critical, because Loon parents often leave their chicks, twelve weeks post hatch. Eloise is now 10 weeks old. Tick Tock! A few days ago, we spotted the Cove Loon parents at sunset, settling down for the night, along the Birchwood shore. They appeared relaxed and healthy.
BUILDING LIVES THAT
Erik Suchy
Ricka McNaughton
RICKA MCNAUGHTON | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Anna Costello and Pippi, after a walk along the Lake Avenue.
CONTRIBUTED
Michael Goshey made a stop last week at the Purple Heart Chapel along the Central Lakes Trail, just southeast of Dalton, Minnesota.
Loon Chronicles VIII: Molting is Finished!
Ellen Maas
Bank introduces friendly technology
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
MidCountry Bank is rolling out a new teller system to change users’ interactions with the company.
The machine is called an interactive teller machine, or ITM for short. The ITM works much like a regular ATM. However, in addition to allowing users to withdraw and deposit money through a touch screen, the ITM will also enable them to connect to a teller through a video call to make transactions.
“It will offer a lot of flexibility to both customers and those on the operations side,” said Marketing Manager Matt Vierling. “Outside the lobby, customers can still talk to a live person and do most of their normal transactions.”
There are currently two operational ITMs at MidCountry Bank, at their branches in White Bear Lake and Bloomington. Both ITMs connect users to a
teller at the Hastings location to complete transactions.
According to Senior
Storm damage
Community Business Banker
Robert Morse, local customers can access the White Bear Lake ITM before regular bank hours. While the White Bear Lake bank is open from noon to 4 p.m. on weekdays, users can use the ITM as early as 9 a.m. “It’s nice to get to it that way,” said Morse. “That interaction of meeting face-toface with a teller rather than just a machine is a big plus.”
Other new features include a faster depositing system. Unlike traditional ATMs, ITM cash and check deposits will occur immediately rather
SUZI HUDSON CONTRIBUTED
A large tree fell on the roof of a home near Fifth Street and Morehead Avenue in downtown White Bear Lake following a recent storm.
Autistic young adults spread joy through popcorn care packages
BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER
Friends Josiah Cullen and Jared Long have different interests, but what brings them together is spreading joy to others.
Cullen and Long met at ages five and seven as patients at the Partners In Excellence Autism Therapy Center in North St. Paul. Cullen lives in Hugo, while Long lives in Cottage Grove. Both are autistic nonverbal speakers who communicate by writing on letter boards. Although the two bonded, they lost touch after Jared left to attend public school when almost nine.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Josiah’s mom, Tahni, who had been homeschooling Josiah, devised a fun project for the two to work on.
“During the holidays, we wanted to do something together that could also help Josiah work on his motor skills,” said Tahni. “He’s always connected great with senior citizens and deeply loves his grandparents. I thought it would be fun to create some care packages to give to senior living homes.” Josiah also has a long-standing interest in poetry and art, contributing to his and Tahni’s care packages. These packages would include a magnet print of one of Josiah’s paintings and one of his poems.
While Tahni and Josiah dropped off these packages at senior homes and hospitals, Jared had found inspiration elsewhere. This came from the documentary “Mission Joy: Finding Happiness in Trouble Times,” which highlighted the friendship between the
TAHNI CULLEN| CONTRIBUTED
Josiah Cullen and Jared Long are two nonverbal autistic young adults who spread joy to others through selling popcorn and goodie bags. From left to right, Jared’s mother Melissa, Jared, Josiah, and Josiah’s mother Tahni.
Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
“Jared’s been inspired by the Dalai Lama for a long time,” said Melissa, Jared’s mother. “He’s fascinated by the work he does around the world. In that documentary, they talk about overcoming obstacles and living joyfully. I feel it correlates with the challenges Josiah and Jared have overcome with being on the autism spectrum. This documentary was his biggest inspiration in starting Kernels of Joy.”
But it wasn’t until Josiah’s 18th birthday party last October that the genesis of Kernel’s of Joy finally occurred.
2.
background in marketing, I was able to create the popcorn packaging. With his ability to do art and write poetry, Josiah made a great contribution. He and Jared really want to serve others, which is a great way to bring a smile to people’s faces.” Supported by their mothers and therapists, Josiah and Jared gave ongoing input to all aspects of the business while also assembling goodie bags to sell.
Melissa is in charge of making popcorn while she and Tahni run the Kernels of Joy booth, with Josiah and Jared occasionally appearing. Jared and Josiah help assemble the goodie bags, referred to as “Glad Bags,” sold separately from the popcorn. These bags contain a smile card, bookmarks, a magnet of Josiah’s art, scrabble tiles spelling joy, popcorn-flavored lip balm, and other accessories. “We want people to taste the rays of joy and say it’s a better day because of it!” said Josiah.
Tahni invited both Jared and Melissa to come. As a birthday present, Jared bought Josiah different snack foods, including popcorn. During the party, Josiah mentioned to Jared about the care packages he and Tahni were dropping off and selling. This fascinated Jared, who told Josiah about his own love of finding ways to give back to the community. A few weeks later, Tahni and Melissa met to help their sons develop a business model for Kernels of Joy.
“We put all of our passions, skills, abilities together,” said Tahni. “Melissa got her cottage license for popping popcorn. Because I have a
Melissa and Tahni held a soft opening for Kernels of Joy earlier in July at Dynamic Connections, the autism center Josiah and Jared attend. Tahni and Melissa will also have a booth for Kernels of Joy at the Mounds View Festival In The Park, which will take place on August 17. Those interested in learning more about Kernels of Joy can visit their website at www.kernelsofjoymn.com.
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email him at www.whitebearnews@ presspubs.com
different location
Relay for Life benefit
— the new White Bear Lake Area High School stadium on the north side of town. Following an introductory ceremony and a group photo, cancer survivors and care givers took an early evening lap around the stadium track. The event, founded in 1994 by the late Keith and Patty Warner, had raised $135,600.25 of a $150,000 goal at press time. — Paul Dols, Press Publications 5. Five members of the Matthew Bennett quartet perform at Mahtomedi Area Farmers Market August 3. — Contributed
Jess Miller installed a bench along the South Shore Blvd. section of the Lake Links Trail as part of his Eagle Scout project. — Contributed
1. The A-scow regatta with Minnetonka was canceled due to wind conditions, but it didn’t stop sailors from getting together for a cookout following an impromptu race Sunday. — Contributed
Norm and Mary Ann Setnicker visited the Slavic Experience event in St. Louis Park. — Contributed 3&4. More than 30 teams recently participated in the 30th Annual White Bear Lake Area
Above: Tour De Bar event organizer Mike Shearen recognizes and introduces Kathy Kramer,
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BOY’S STATE: Mahtomedi High School students learn about government, politics
politics, and everything that comes with it,” said Knauss.
Newcome and Knauss were assigned dormitories on different levels on their first day. Each dormitory level consisted of various high school students representing six different cities in Minnesota: Saint Paul, Duluth, Austin, Rochester, Minneapolis, and Mankato. Newcome’s level represented the city of Austin while Knauss’ level represented Rochester.
At the start of the week, each city would establish a formal government, electing students to run as mayor, sheriffs, clerks, and councilmembers. Newcome and Knauss were picked to run as mayors of their respective cities. “I got to run the city council meetings, which was a cool way to learn about government,” said Knauss. “It was fun to replicate it in our own special way.”
The cities then elected students to run for their county government, later putting them into “nationalist”
and “federalist” parties. After party selections were finalized, a county convention for each party was held. Nominated students went to a mock statewide convention for each party.
At the convention, students nominated each other to run for governor and lieutenant governor positions. Following the wins for state and lieutenant governor, students would run through mock scenarios requiring bills to be written up and passed.
“One funny bill that we tried to pass was the ‘Lights Out’ bill,” said Newcome. “Instead of having lights out at 11 p.m. on Friday, we could stay until 2 a.m. Saturday morning. It had to get voted on by a two-thirds majority of everyone, including the House, Senate, and governor. It was a long process, but seeing it as a replica of our legal system was fun, shortened to about 200 votes.”
The Boys State trip also featured an appearance by Governor Tim Walz, who spoke to students about the critical factors of state government.
“I learned about many of the good things people can accomplish in state
and local government,” said Knauss of the trip. “Especially because people can easily be swayed to one side or the other.”
“The biggest takeaway I had was being super confident and running for absolutely everything,” added Newcome. “When I first arrived, I didn’t plan on throwing my
in the
By the end, I ran for everything possible.”
Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email him at www.whitebearnews@ presspubs.com.
hat
ring.
Newcome and Knauss were two of six students chosen as mayors of their cities. From left to right, back to front, Minnesota Boys State Director Kyle Oldre, Zach Dietz (St. Paul mayor), Gavin Chabica (Duluth mayor), Newcome (Austin mayor), Knauss (Rochester mayor), Thor Erickson (Minneapolis mayor), and Tucker Fournier (Mankato mayor).
OBITUARIES
Jonnie Lynne Smith Hauswirth
Age 57, of White Bear Township, passed away on July 30, 2024 surrounded by her family at home. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Vernon and Marie Dalzell and Bert and Stella Smith. She is survived by her husband, Jeff; two boys, Joshua (Lisa) and Justin (Annie); grandchildren, Tobias, Thomas, and Mathis; parents, Gary and Marilyn Smith; brother, Greg (Karen) Smith; sister, Tina Smith; along with extended family, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Jonnie graduated from Cottage Grove High School and continued her education at Hamline University and St. Kate’s. She was an employee at 3M for over 30 years. She passed away from cancer but said “as I live with cancer- I AM NOT A VICTIM.” She had many activities and hobbies, loved and adored her boys and grandchildren, liked the outdoors/adventures, downhill snow skiing, snowmobiling, boating, at home time with her crafting, but, most of all, ‘decorating our Christmas Tree’.
She was loving, welcoming, gracious, patient, understanding, and had a gentle heart and smile. She will be missed and is loved by many.
A celebration of life will be held from 5-9 p.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at Mueller Memorial, 4738 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake. Private family service and internment.
In lieu of flowers, please drop off favorite pictures and/or give to a charity or donation for cancer (colon cancer, prostate cancer or children’s cancer of any kind to help beat cancer). Mueller Memorial- White Bear Lake, www.muellermemorial.com, 651-429-4944
Barbara Ann Foley
Age 95, of White Bear Lake MN passed away on July 27 2024. She is preceded in death by her husband David Foley, her father, Euell McDaniel and her mother Ethel McDaniel (Spruill). She is survived by her children, Kevin (Sally), Melissa (William) Collins, William (Jennifer), John (Carla), Thomas, Mark and Sarah (Steve) Wolsfeld, 17 grandchildren and 6 great grandsons.
Barbara was an only child who raised 7 children. She was very proud of her children and they will always be very proud of her. She loved sewing and became an accomplished quilter. She was a founding member of the “Ladies of the Lake” quilting club. She loved music and participated in Church choirs at St Leo’s, St Jude’s and St Mary’s Catholic churches. Even in her final days she could still sing songs from memory. She will be missed. Special thanks to all of her caregivers at the Memory Care Unit at Harbor Crossing in White Bear Lake and her Hospice team. You made this journey a lot easier for her family.
Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 4741 Bald Eagle Ave, White Bear Lake MN on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 with visitation at 10 AM. Mueller Memorial - White Bear Lake, www.muellermemorial.com 651-429-4944
STUDENT NEWS
Donna Marie Williams (Johnson)
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on July 19, 2024, after being diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer two days earlier. Although Donna was not feeling one hundred percent the past few months, she continued to live life fully, cruising to the Pacific side of Mexico with husband Dean and friends from Bald Eagle, and visiting their grandchildren and family in Texas. She attended Wednesday night socials and was out on Bald Eagle Lake racing the Hobie 16 she sailed with Dean, three weeks before entering the hospital. She enjoyed 4 th of July festivities with her family and lake community on Bald Eagle, and her last lake outing was to enjoy the annual “Music on the Water” concert from their boat, rafted up with friends on the Lake.
Services will be held at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN, 55115. Visitation at 10 a.m., Celebration of Life at 11 a.m. and lunch reception to follow at the church. Arrangements by Mueller Lake Mortuary, White Bear Lake, MN.
Memorials may be directed to Smile Network International. Full Life Story posted at Muellermemorial.com
POLITICAL BRIEF
Leroy A. “Chub” Wilke
Age 81, of Vadnais Heights, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 26, 2024. Preceded in death by brother, Lloyd; sisters, Elaine Meissner and Lorraine Wasiluk. He will be sadly missed by wife, Marion; children, Jim, Deb (Kevin) Valley, and Mike; grandchildren, Dani (Alex), Nikki (Taelor) and Brett (Erica); brother, Allan “Jocko”; sister, Joann (Bob) Krasky; many nieces, nephews, other family and friends. Chub worked for 3M for 35 years. He was a longtime volunteer for the Vadnais Heights Fire Department and the Vadnais Heights Lions Club. A celebration of Chub’s life will be Thursday, August 8, 12 p.m. at Bradshaw Celebration of Life Center, 4600 Greenhaven Drive, White Bear with visitation two hours prior to the service.
Bradshaw 651-407-8300 www.bradshawfuneral.com
Marina Frances Hohman
Age 100, White Bear Lake passed away July 8, 2024, her family at her side.
Mass of Christian Burial at St. Pius X Church, WBL, MN, Sat. Aug. 10, 11 a.m. Visitation 10 a.m. Luncheon to follow. Private burial services. Arrangements and full obituary: Cremation Society of Minnesota.
Three positions up for election on Vadnais Heights City Council
The office of mayor and two city council members will be up for election on the November 5 General Election ballot. The mayor’s term is two years, and the council member’s term is four years. Both terms will begin on the first business day
Obituaries celebrate and honor unique lives.
(Full Name)
Years and age listed here followed by the names of family members, life accomplishments, places traveled, jobs held, or descriptions of what was important to the person.
To Submit an Obit
Call: 651-407-1250
Email: obits@presspubs.com
Visit us at: 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN
The following students graduated from a college or university in Spring 2024: Alexandria Technical and Community College: Caleb Mitchell of White Bear Lake, law enforcement skills certificate.
Lawrence University: Laken Hairston of Vadnais Heights.
St. Cloud State University: Sydney Staedt of White Bear Lake, Master of Science, interdisciplinary studies; Zac Chapman of White Bear Township, Bachelor of Science, mass communications, summa cum laude.
South Dakota State University: Kayla Brisbois of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, education and human sciences, summa cum laude; Carter Stai of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, education and human sciences.
University at Albany: Haiden Schnagl of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, business economics.
of January 2025. Both mayor and council members should commit to attending three to four business meetings per month. Qualifying candidates must be an eligible voter and be at least 21 years old. Candidates must also have been a Vadnais
Heights resident for at least 30 days before the election and have no other affidavit on file as a candidate for any other office. Each candidate must complete an affidavit of candidacy and submit a $5 filing fee at City Hall by August 13.
University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse: Aaron Barton of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, statistics, highest honors.
University of Wisconsin-Madison: Ella Janicki of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Business Administration, accounting, with distinction; Molly Trudgeon of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Arts, communication sciences and disorders, psychology; Tatiana Zech of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, biochemistry and nutritional science, with honors.
University of Wisconsin-Stout: Brody Fox of Mahtomedi, Bachelor of Science, business administration.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire: Maggie Minnick of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Arts, geography; Joey Newman of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, computer science and psychology; Eli Zobrack of White Bear Lake, Bachelor of Science, kinesiology.
Eat! owners blessed by expansion
Shawn and Barbara Smith are no strangers to expanding their restaurant, Eat! at Banning and Fifth. Their most recent expansion, however, was “especially unbelievable” for the couple.
Recently the Smiths acquired the space previously occupied by Farmers Insurance Agent Dale Grambush. They turned the new space into an additional dining area.
The addition was exciting yet daunting, as the Smiths capped the renovation period to a short two weeks.
“We just can’t afford to close” any longer than those two weeks, Barbara explained.
that into words for what it meant to us.”
While Eat! has been open for 12 years, the Smiths have been in the White Bear Lake area for 35 years. Moments like this serve as reminders of Eat! at Banning and Fifth’s -and the Smith’s- impact on the community.
“They like us here in this corner. They want us to be here,” Shawn said. “It makes us want to work harder.”
The Smith’s deep care for their community is something the they hope every customer feels when they walk into Eat! at Banning and Fifth. “They know we care about them. We know they care about us,” Barbara said. “We can’t do it without them.”
Two weeks became no problem when a gracious group of friends and family unexpectedly arrived at the restaurant to help.
Movie in the Park
“It wasn’t a question of I was asking them. It was them saying, ‘we’re gonna be here, so find something for us to do,’” Shawn said. From removing walls, to installing lights, to painting, they “just kept taking one thing off the list.”
Together the group completed projects which would normally take four, five, even eight weeks to accomplish.
“Without them… honestly, there’s no way we could have done that in two weeks,” Barbara said.
Even more remarkable than the timeline of the renovation was the generosity of the community members who volunteered their time and energy and not wanting anything in return. Their kindness is what meant the most to the Smiths.
“They don’t want you to feel like you owe them. It’s just something they wanted to do for you. It’s beautiful,” Barbara said. “I don’t know how to put
The Smiths hope the expansion will foster even more meaningful connections in their restaurant. With the additional tables and seating, Shawn hopes customers are “comfortable enough to come in and stay and have a conversation, and not feel like they have to go.”
“It was never about number of seats, number of tables,” Shawn said. When customers sit and stay a while, it is the “ultimate compliment.”
The seats and tables of Eat! at Banning and Fifth serve as reminders of many memories and faces for the Smiths. The two recalled stories of customers coming from afar to meet friends for lunch, or former employees whose kids eventually work for the restaurant as well.
“That’s the rewarding thing, too, over the years you just know so many people,” Barbara said.
When asked of their favorite memory across these 12 years of Eat! at Banning and Fifth, it was impossible for the couple to pick just one.
“There’s so many
moments that are precious because it can be from just knowing that you put a smile on someone’s face, or it’s the opposite,” Barbara said.
“We just can’t get over that. I mean, how do you say thanks to them?”
From opening Eat!’s first space in 2012, to opening Eat! Kitchen and Pantry Store next door to their latest expansion, the Smiths restaurant is “bigger than [they] ever thought it was going to be,” Barbara said.
They have stayed content at each step of the way, and believed what’s meant to be will come their way.
“We don’t really plan anything,” Barbara said.
“When the next thing comes we figure it’s coming for a reason. We truly believe it’s God’s plan.”
So for now, the Smiths are basking in their new expansion, excited for the new and old faces that will pass through their new space.
“We’re content. From the beginning we said what we care about is being part of the community, and just get the bills paid,” Barbara said. “The bills keep getting paid. We’re happy, and that’s all we need.”
PHOTOS BY ERIK SUCHY | PRESS PUBLICATIONS
Sam Smith and her dad, Shawn, can serve more diners at their expanded restaurant.
Omot sparkles against Team USA at Olympics
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
After an impressive Olympic Games showing last week in Paris, Mahtomedi graduate Nuni Omot posted a brief and hopeful message on social media. It read, “Any team that gives me a chance, I promise you won’t regret it.”
The 6-foot-9 forward for
South Sudan pumped in 50 points in three games — highlighted by scoring a game-high 24 points against Team USA — and hoped his performance would impress any NBA team enough to give him a look at age 29. Omot averaged 16.7 points against teams dotted with NBA players as South Sudan defeated Puerto Rico 90-79,
lost to USA 103-86, and lost to Serbia 96-85, in pool play. He shot 16-for-39 overall, 7-for18 on three’s, and 11-for-12 at the line, while snagging 10 rebounds.
The loss to Serbia eliminated South Sudan from advancing to the medal round, but they made a respectable showing for a first-time Olympics entrant, not to mention also losing to USA by just one point, 101-100, in a pre-Olympics tune-up in London.
Omot had 12 points and six rebounds in the win over Puerto Rico. Against Team USA, he shot 8-for-12 overall (5-for-7 on three’s) for 24 points, and South Sudan outscored the U.S. in his 28 minutes of play. USA had six
double digit scorers, including Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves with 13. Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat led with 18. Against Serbia, Omot notched 14 points. Serbia’s Nikola Jokic, the NBA’s Most Valuable Player this year for the Denver Nuggets, had 22 points and 13 rebounds. Brogan Bobdonovic of the Brooklyn Nets logged 30 points.
In a press conference prior to the Olympics Omot told reporters, “For me, I feel like this is going to be a really big opportunity for myself, for people across the world to see who I really am as a player on the global stage. Obviously, I never played at the highest level in the NBA, I never played at the highest level
in Europe, in Euro League, so my thing is just to show it’s never been talent that’s the issue. It’s just obviously people being able to see it live and against the best people, so I think this is going to be a huge thing for me.”
The 2013 Mahtomedi graduate, born in a refugee camp in Kenya, was a late bloomer averaging 18 points as a senior in his lone year as a starter with the Zephyrs. He played for three college teams, capped by two seasons with Baylor. He made brief NBA G league appearances three times, and has played pro basketball in eight countries overseas.
Township finishes with 2 wins in season
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
The White Bear Township baseball team had a two-game win streak in mid-July. Unfortunately, those would be their only two wins in 20 games for the 2024 season, which ended this past weekend with two playoff losses to the St. Anthony Hogs, 13-3 and 7-2. “It was fun for a minute or so,” said manager Bill Capocasa about the wins over Minneapolis North Stars and Stillwater Loggers. “After that, we got ten-runned three times in a row.” Catcher Tim Boncher hit around .300 leading the team. Caden Gores
hit the only two home runs, one of them in the playoffs. Second baseman Eli Reeves was the team’s top allaround player, hitting and fielding, the manager added.
The team had three of their pitchers injured late in the season, but Capocasa said there were also other challenges. “We had too many walks and errors. And we never got the bats going like we needed to. We will be working on that next year.”
Capocasa noted that White Bear Lake High School has a very good senior class of ballplayers this coming year and hopes he can get some to join the township team.
BY BRUCE STRAND SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
Mike Baumann’s stay with the San Francisco Giants was short-lived. The relief pitcher from Mahtomedi was cut loose July 27 after one appearance with the Giants, and he landed with the Los Angeles Angels July 30 “for cash considerations,” according to mlb.com.
This is Baumann’s fourth team this season, one short of the major league record. Oliver Drake, also a relief pitcher, played for five teams during the 2018 season.
The 28-year-old righthander has gotten off to a good start with the Angels. He threw one scoreless inning, with one strikeout, in a 2-1 loss to Colorado, and another scoreless inning, again with one strikeout, in a 3-2 win over the New York Mets.
Baumann, a 2014 Mahtomedi graduate who had a three-year college career with
Jacksonville, started the season with the Baltimore Orioles, who drafted him in 2017.
The Orioles traded him to Seattle in May. He appeared in 18 games with the Mariners before he was placed on the “designated for assignment” list and was claimed by the Giants on waivers July 22.
He got into one game with the Giants and gave up a two-run
triple. The National League club put him on the DFA list and the Angels brought him back to the American League.
Baumann has a 4.53 ERA in 37.3 innings with the four clubs this season after emerging as a solid piece of Baltimore’s middle relief corps a year ago when he had a 10-1 record and the Orioles won 101 games.
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ABA OMOT | PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Omot’s mother, Pillow, was among his family members cheering from the stands.
Nuni Omot being interviewed after one of the games.
BRUCE STRAND | CONTRIBUTED
Caden Gores, shown during a game, hit the team’s only two home runs for the season.
Controneo’s, a liquor store currently located at the corner of Third Street and Clark Avenue in White Bear Lake, has applied for an off-sale liquor license so the business can relocate to the former Frazier Auto property at 2140 Third Street. Controneo’s
applied for a zoning text amendment because off sale liquor stores are not a permitted use in downtown White Bear Lake business district. As the building at Third and Clark has long housed a liquor store, Controneo’s has been therefore “grandfathered in” at their current location.
The planning commission held a public hearing to review the zoning text amendment application, and made a recommendation to city council to approve Controneo’s request. The amendment requires two readings, which are scheduled for the Aug. 14 and Aug. 27 city council meetings. Controneo’s has also applied to update their liquor license to reflect the proposed location.
Shop at downtown retailers, win prizes
Downtown White Bear Lake businesses are inviting shoppers to a Customer Appreciation Day Saturday, Aug. 10. Pick up a passport from one of 14 participating businesses, get the passport stamped at each location, and then be entered for a chance to win one of three prize baskets and the grand prize drawing that includes a $250 gift card to Graham Jewelers. To check out the businesses offering specials, go to downtownwhitebearlake.com.
Mandy, Derek & Leah
Controneo’s liquor store plans to move into the former Frazier Automotive site at Third Street and Highway 61, across from their current location.