Vadnais Heights Press

Front row seats to summer season

Hart family members optimized their enjoyment of one of the fleeting days of summer by lining up a group of chairs in the water at Memorial Beach in White Bear Lake. They were enjoying a reunion with some family members visiting from Alaska, who commented that the cooler temperatures, closer to the normal September average, reminded them of a typical summer day in Alaska.

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

A slice of local fun is just around the corner with the annual Vadnais Heights Days festival through Aug. 18 at Community Park and Vadnais Heights Commons.

This year will bring a new change to the festival’s name. Instead of the long-held “Heritage Days” title, this marks the first year under the “Vadnais Heights Days” name. “It’s easier for people unfamiliar with the event to recognize what it is,” said Recreation and Facilities Manager Katie Everett. “It’s also to help capture more people and get them excited about coming in.”

Despite the new name, attendees can expect to see the same events from previous festivals. These include various sports tournaments at Community Park. A beginner’s pickleball tournament will begin on Wednesday, Aug. 14 starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17 will see a family kickball and bean bag tournament from 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., respectively. On Sunday, a men’s softball tournament will be held at 9 a.m.

The festival’s Senior Picnic will be held at the Vadnais Heights Commons on Thursday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The picnic will allow attendees to speak to local senior service organizations, and includes lunch and live music. A free Bingo game will occur after lunch. Live music will be performed on Saturday.

Picnic to be held for Ukrainian exchange students

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

A picnic will be held to welcome 15 Ukrainian exchange students to the White Bear Lake area on Friday, Aug. 16, at 11:30 a.m. at West Park in White Bear Lake. The picnic is a collaboration between the White Bear Lake Rotary Club and YouLEAD, a Minnesotabased leadership, engagement and development program. YouLEAD is a program within Global Synergy Group, a nonprofit founded by Irina Fursman. Fursman, who moved to Minnesota from Ukraine in 2002, saw a need to create civic engagement

between Minnesota and Ukranian residents. This passion led to her creating the Global Synergy Group, a nonprofit organization that supports Ukraine - Minnesota community to community exchange programs, in 2012. The organization currently has three Civic Leadership Engagement and Development exchange visits, and four Youth Civic Leadership Engagement and Development exchanges to and from Ukraine.

The YouLEAD program selects Ukrainian students and extends an invitation to them to come to Minnesota for one month. While here, students learn about the state’s culture, government, health care

system, and other elements to help them develop learning and leadership skills.

The 2024 program also has a particular focus on developing future leaders to replace those lost in war,

“The trip opened me to the world in new ways. I saw how people live on another continent, and felt their lives on my own.”

Kateryna Muzyka, Former participant

developing skills to help post-war Ukraine redevelop and heal and providing a mental health break to youth experiencing trauma from war. The students will stay in different homes in White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi, Saint Paul, Maplewood and Brooklyn Park, hosted by local volunteers. Fursman is optimistic about what the students will learn from their stay. “I hope they see that ordinary people are here to invest time and resources into supporting them as future leaders,” said Fursman. “I want them to feel appreciative for the experiences they

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PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

• Crown Castle, a communications infrastructure company, will install a modified T-Mobile mount on a cell tower at the old town hall site of 4151 Hoffman Road. According to Crown Castle Real Estate Specialist Anthony Racioppi, T-Mobile’s modification will “better serve the public and minimize the number of towers in an area where this property is located.”

• The township has received an official bid for their surplus property at 2569 Stacker Blvd. property from Kyle Mason, a nearby resident. Mason explained, “My fiancé and I really like the neighborhood, and we want something good to be done with the property … If we don’t build on it, we want somebody else to improve on the property and the neighborhood as well.”

Interim Town Board Supervisor Tom Riedesel said he appreciated the bid, but recommended Mason hold off until the property is appraised. Town Attorney Chad Lemmons reported that should happen in three to four weeks.

• The board approved a special permit archery hunt for Ramsey Count to hunt on Poplar Lake near Ash Street between Sept. 14 and Dec. 31. The hunt, which has happened for many years, is through the Minnesota Bow Hunters’ Resource Base.

Town Board Supervisor Chair Ed Prudhon expressed some frustration. “When we know that there’s a lot more in Tamarack [Nature Center], and they’re avoiding that one.” Town Board Supervisor Steve Ruzek added, “The residents are quite unhappy with that information … particularly the ones between Anderlie Lane and West Bald Eagle… because they see their vegetation getting destroyed.”

The board plans to discuss hunting ordinances and wildlife population management at the executive meeting later this month.

• A letter from a resident on north Portland Road to the Public Safety Commission outlines concerns related to the speed on Portland and requests the addition of a stop sign or two.

Riedesel says that efforts to get the county to change the speed limit on that stretch have dated back to at least the early 1990s. Town Engineer Larry Poppler cautioned, “When they set speed limits, they use the 85th percentile speed to set those limits … you can request the county to review that again and see if the speeds have come down, but in some cases, they evaluate those speeds, and the speeds are higher… and then they have to post it higher.”

The board agreed to contact the Ramsey County

Traffic Engineer to learn more.

• Dick Sand of 2626 Sandterra Circle is requesting a special exception be made regarding an island in the cul-de-sac outside his house. The township has been removing median islands as part of road reconstruction in the Mallard Ponds neighborhood.

“The cul-de-sac we live on has only two houses on it … I’d ask that the town board do a change order.” Sand cited reduced snow removal and tree presence.

Because all the residents wished for this, the cost of the project would be lowered, and the cul-desac would not need a special snowplow, Lemmons recommended that the board approve the request on the condition they “make clear that this is a very unique situation.”

Lion Rheanna O’Brien is awaded The Melvin Jones award by Lion Mike Machus, for her continued efforts to bring charitable organizations in helping each other in the achievement of goals and for the greater needs of the community of White Bear Lake and surrounding areas. Lion O’Brien is our new club President.

Congratulations Lion Rheanna O’Brien.

Logan Gion

Bear Squads start workouts; opening dates listed

White Bear Lake’s 2024-25 sports season is underway as all Minnesota fall sports teams began pre-season practices Monday, Aug. 12.

The Bear tennis team, coached by Marla Menne, will be the first in action, on Wednesday, Aug. 21 at Hill-Murray.

The soccer teams will have a season-opening double header hosting Centennial on Thursday, Aug. 22. The boys are coached by Taelynn Gittins, and the girls by Dave Ashley and John Dierkhising. Also opening Aug. 22 will be Tia Quirk’s swimmers at conference relays at East Ridge.

The volleyball squad under Mackenzie Leverty

COMMUNITY BRIEFS

Volunteer, participate in Ride

Around the Lake event

Lake Links Association is looking for volunteers to help with the 7th Annual Ride Around the Lake on Saturday, Oct. 7. Volunteers are needed to help with registration and lead groups of cyclists around White Bear Lake. The event begins at 8 a.m. at Bellaire Bearch on South Shore Boulevard. To learn more about volunteering, email lakelinksmn@ gmail.com.

Additionally, individuals ages 12 and older are invited to participate in the guided bike ride around the lake. To sign up, go to www.lakelinks.net/ post/free-fun-september-7.

Cruise the St. Croix, support veterans programs

The Stillwater Veterans Memorial will host the 22nd Annual Benefit Dinner Cruise honoring military

Bear Jewelers

• Cossack Foundation

• Paul Sutherland

• Joel Moline and Rachel Roy

• Kevin and Polly Hart

• Carlson Chiropractic

• Steve and Shannon Whitaker

• White Bear Mitsubishi

• Commercial Plumbing and Heating PATRONS

• Mark and Rebecca Shavlik

• Rich Pakonen

• Bruce and Mary Lach

• Tom and Robin Nardini

• Todd and Martha Nicholson

• VFW Post #1782 SUPPORTERS

• Scott and Anne Lingle

• B & G Products Company

• Richard and Jane Kyle

• Douglas and Kathy Whitaker

• Abe Appert

• Serafina Christenson

will start against Hutchinson at home Tuesday, Aug. 27. The football team, coached by Ryan Bartlett, will host Minnetonka on Thursday, Aug. 29. Boys cross country under Dan Kovacich and girls cross country under Audrey Kirschling will debut Friday, Aug, 30, at Rosemount.

Zephyr teams open practice; opening dates listed

The Mahtomedi Zephyrs’ 2024-25 sports season is underway as all Minnesota fall sports teams began pre-season practices Monday, Aug. 12.

The first Zephyrs to open the season will be Nathan Tretsven’s girls tennis team on Friday

veterans on Monday, Aug. 19 aboard the Avalon Paddlewheel on the St. Croix River. Guests will enjoy live music, program, buffet dinner and raffle.

The program will include guest speaker Retired U.S. Army Four Star General Paul M. Nakasone, a native of White Bear Lake. Gen. Nakasone is the former head of the National Security Agency, Central Security Service and United States Cyber Command.

Boarding begins at 4:30 p.m. with a 5:45 p.m. departure. The cruise is scheduled to return to dock at 8 p.m. A limited number of complimentary tickets are available for veterans. All proceeds from the event go toward the maintenance of the memorial, Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, and other programming. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit stillwaterveteransmemorial.org.

• Abe Appert Realty Inc.

• Melanie and Guy Ahlstrom

• Alliance Insurance Advisors Agency

• Jay and Beth Althof

• Elwood Anderson

• William and Christine Anderson

• R.C. and B.K. Anderson

• Susan Armstrong

• Nancy Ashpole Weinand

• Jean and Michael Auger

• Bear Town Bar & Grill

• Bryan and Lael Belisle

• Justin Berrisford

• Valerie and Kenneth Blizzard

• Dale and Susan Boettcher

• John Bowers, Jr.

• John Boyle, Jr.

• Richard and Mary Brainerd Trustee

• Bremer Bank

• K B Brevig

• Robert and Patricia Broen

• Albert and Genevieve Burth

• Albert and Genevieve Burth

• Timothy Cahlander

• Janet Callahan

• Victoria and Bruce Canterbury

• Nancy and Thomas Carlson

• Raymond Caturia

• Mark and Beth Cermak

• Kirsten Chelberg

• Roy D. Christensen, Sr.

• Ann and Peter Clark

• Donna Claude

• Susan Clegg

• Delpha Close

• Judith Conley

• Mary Ellen and Norbert Conzemius

• Mary Dunn and Gregory Cotterell

• Thomas & Margaret Couillard

• Kevin and Sonia Curran

• Donald Dolan

• Florene Dougherty

at Stillwater. The girls swim team, coached by Mike Goldman, will open Thursday, Aug. 22, with conference relays at Simley. Also on Aug. 22, the volleyball squad, coached by Tia Schlundt, will host Cretin-Derham Hall.

Lifting the lid on Friday, Aug. 23, will be boys soccer, coached by Adolfo Barrera Gonzelez, hosting Duluth Denfeld, and girls soccer, coached by David Wald, at Rochester Century.

The Mahtomedi football team will travel to Brainerd on Friday, Aug. 30. Also opening that day will be the cross country teams, coached by Jim Driscoll, at Rosemount.

FRIENDS

• Bridgid Dowdal

• Craig and Gloria Drake

• Tracey and Michael Dutcher

• Tamara Fagely

• Faye Bye Duvall Trustee Grant

• Kathleen Fick

• Jogn Fortier

• William Foussard

• Richard Galena

• James and LeAnn Galvin

• Romelle and William Gangl

• Bryan Gatzlaff

• William Gebhart

• Paulette Genz

• Gayle Gerth

• Robert and Connie Gillen

• Bonnie Greenleaf

• Jonathan and Christine Gruen

• Karen Gruetzmacher

• Paul Haas

• Theresa Hagen

• Thomas and Amy Hammitt

• Merilane Hansen

• Steve and Natasha Hanson

• James and Susan Happe

• F L and J A Harper

• Susan Hartzell

• Dean and Sharon Hedlund

• Ralph Heimer

• Laurel Hemstad

• Deloros Hobrough

• Dorothy and Richard Hoel

• Kathleen Hoelscher

• Dianne and Eric Holmberg

• Douglas & Victoria Holmen

• Thomas Horak

• William and April Hudalla

• Jay and Cynthia Ihlenfeld

• Gloria Jansen

• Helen Jensen

• Robert and Patricia Johanneck

• Eugene and Kathleen Johnson

• Maggi and Derek Johnson

• John Johnson

• Henry Kaldahl

• Marilynn Kaplan

• Alexandra Kaslow-Briggs

• Karen and Lloyd Kepple

• Paul and Kathleen Kettleson

• E. C. Kippe

• Kenneth Koetz

• Catherine Krautkramer

• Debra Laurents

• Ronald and Susan Leaf

• Mary Levins

• William Maass

• Ann Magnusson

• Patricia Manning

• Matthew and Laura Markoe

• Michael Marttila

• McBride Enterprises, Inc.

• Patrick and Gayle McCann

• Jason & Emily McIntyre

• Joseph and Ann McKasy

• William and Stephanie McNamara

• Ricka McNaughton

• Kim and Paul Meuwissen

• Kathleen Meyer

• Anthony and Joan Mieloch

• Montgomery Law PLLC

• Tracy and Doris Morrison

• Richard Moskop

• James & Marilyn Muellner

• Kevin and Molly Murphy

• Nicholas Nash

• Ronald and Sharon Nelson

• Shari and James Nepper

• Michael and Beth Nevala

• Daniel and Judy Nuese

• Larry and Suzanne Ohman

• Rachel Olson

• Jerilynn Ommen

• Nancy Palma

• Judith Peters

• Janet Pickett

• Mary and Brian Pierce

• Cheryl Plumb

• Jane Pomaville

• Mary Rafferty

• Ramsay Wealth Management Ltd.

• Steven Rasske

• Geoffrey and Jean Ratte

• S.M. and W. J. Reichow

• Gloria Reichstadt

• Maureen and John Reinhart

• Dorothy Reische

• Thomas and Judy Rice

• Kathleen Richardson

• Joan and Thomas Ring

• William and Debra Roberts

• William and Debra Roberts

• Teresa Rodrique

• Reyne Rofuth

• Janna and Patrick Rohlinger

• Ross Culverhouse and Eileen Foley

• Dixie and Craig Rousar

• Thomas & Claire Rykken

• Mark and Maureen Sather

• Kevin and Barbara Schmidt

• Jerret and Marcia Seebart

• Kathryn Shaw

• Todd and Cindy Sherrett

• Jason & Kristina Sherrett

• Thomas Sinnett

• Alex Sirko

• Keith and Leah Smelser

• Raymond and Anne Smith

• Nan & John Steger

• Suburban Floor Covering

• Peter and Clare Swain

• Richard and Linda Tousley

• Clifford Tower and Carol Cramer

• Judy and Cecil Van Booven

• Greg Van Wormer

• Elaine and Kenneth Vollbrecht

• Mary Westra

• Catherine Weyerhaeuser

• White Bear Lake Conservation District

• White Bear Lake Women of Today

• Richard Wicklund

• Ronald and Mary Will

• Charles and Barba Williams

• Jay and Francis Wilson

• Erika Winchell

Bruce Strand

Bittersweet

Idon’t think I’m the only one who thinks this summer flew by. It may have been all the rain at the beginning that made it seem like summer started after the 4th of July. By mid-August families are wrapping up summer vacations and kids are getting their school schedules, shopping for new clothes and supplies and beginning practices for fall sports. The start of the new school year is exciting and the change of seasons is what many of us love about living here, but it’s always a little bittersweet when our already shortened Minnesota summer is over.

Publisher’s View

At the beginning of this week we packed up the car to drive our daughter back to Colorado for her third year at CU-Boulder. It seemed we just welcomed her back home in May, and remember feeling a little apprehensive about how the summer would play out. Those who have experienced having a young adult move back home, whether just for the summer or for any extended period of time, know it changes the household dynamic. It’s easy for everyone to revert to old ways. The past few summers we have slowly adjusted to the differences between parenting a 20-year-old who has been living independently versus the kid who is still in high school.

This summer was more fun and the upheaval was minimal. There were some minor frustrations such as the mysterious disappearance of phone chargers and various items of clothing from our closets, and waking up to a mess in the kitchen after a latenight baking session. But those little things were far outweighed by how fun it was for me to visit with her friends who are now a few years older and have become amazing young men and women. Many of them are more conversational now than they were in high school, and I thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the interesting experiences they are having and getting to know them again as adults. I will miss the additional energy around the house, the laughter, and even the late-night checks that everyone got home safely, the oven is off and the doors are locked. I’m thankful we still have a high schooler at home for another year, and I will try to relish all of it. I do wonder if the day will ever come that we once again get a good night’s sleep.

People say time flies and in an instant your kids will be gone, and it’s true.

How fortunate we are to be able to raise children in this community. We have so many things to be thankful for- good schools, family close by, a safe community, recreation, our freedoms and friendships.

So as our students are preparing to get back to school, bus drivers are learning their routes, remember to plan take a little extra time as you will surely see a delay as you navigate our community.

T2024 election season underway

he 2024 election season is underway. The White Bear Lake Area League of Women Voters has resources that might be helpful to you, your family and friends as well as to people at your workplace as you look forward to the general election on Nov. 5. The League of Women Voters is a grassroots organization of women and men that works to empower voters and defend democracy. The League is a nonpartisan organization, which neither supports nor opposes any political candidate at any level of government.

2024 Voter’s Guide:

This new guide is an online resource that walks you through a series of questions related to voting: why vote, who can vote, where is your voting residence, how to register to vote, how to research candidates, voting early

• Election season is considered to be from the filing deadline until the day of the election.

• Limited to 350 words.

• Letters are free unless endorsing or opposing a candidate, party or question on the ballot. Endorsement/ opposition letters will have a $50 fee. Please call 651-407-1200 to arrange payment by credit card or mail a check payable to Press Publications to 4779 Bloom Ave, White Bear Lake, MN, 55110. Endorsement/ opposition letters are labeled, “paid letter.”

• Submissions must include a

or in person and voter’s rights. The guide is easily accessible by visiting our website: lwv-wbla.org.

Candidate forums

Our League held candidate forums for the August primary elections of Ramsey and Washington County Commissioners in July. Forums for the November elections will be held throughout September for other local races in our area. You can help by sending us questions you have for candidates: what do you want to ask your future mayor, city council or school board member? After Aug. 15, you’ll find a form to submit questions to us on our website.

Get

to know your candidates

Recordings of all forums are posted on our website, lwv-wbla. org and our YouTube channel; they provide a good way to hear candidates express their opinions on important issues. Another way to find information on candidates is to visit Vote411.org. You’ll be able to see candidates’ responses to questions posed to them by the Minnesota League of Women Voters.

full name, address and phone number for verification.

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

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

• Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

• Repeat unpaid letters by the same writer about the same subject matter will not be published. Repeat paid

In-Person Information

You will find members of our League at farmers markets and community festivals throughout the summer and early fall, ready to answer questions about voting. Sept. 17 is National Voter Registration Day, and we are eager to ensure that everyone eligible to vote is registered. Let us know if you’d like us to visit your workplace, your senior residence or your community gathering.

Join us

If you’re looking for ways to be more involved in your community, consider joining the White Bear Lake Area League! For more than 100 years we have been fighting for voting rights and that work continues today. We’re looking for neighbors and friends to join our work of empowering voters.

Jackie Reis is the president of White Bear Lake Area League of Women Voters.

endorsement letters will be published as space permits.

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

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

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

• Letters reprinted as part of

letter-writing campaigns are paid letters.

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• We reserve the right to not publish any letter.

• The deadline to submit a letter is 5 p.m. Wednesday the week prior to publication.

• The last batch of letters to be printed before the Nov. 5 election will be printed in the Oct. 23 issue and must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct.16.

• To submit a letter, email news@presspubs.com or mail/deliver it to Press Publications.

WHITE BEAR PRESS/VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS | ELECTION LETTER GUIDELINES

Movers & Shakers

Jackie Reis

Carter Johnson is publisher of Press Publications.

CARTER JOHNSON

The Johnson’s car packed up for college move-in day.

Carter Johnson

PAID LETTER

Thrilled about candidate

I’m thrilled we have a highly qualified candidate, Patty Bradway, to vote for in our area this election. Bradway is a registered nurse and first-time candidate seeking the House of Representatives seat in District 36B. Her priorities will serve the people with a focus on the future of our children by returning Minnesota’s education to the gold standard of excellence, supporting Law Enforcement to re-establish safety for all, fighting fraud, restraining government spending and cutting taxes to help lower living expenses for all.  Bradway stated, “Working in the healthcare field has instilled in me a deep-seated dedication to others. I am confident that my service-oriented work ethic combined with my rural values will greatly benefit the residents.” Bradway, an alumna of the University of Minnesota with a 31-year tenure at UofM Hospital, graduated with a BSN and holds a Public Health Nurse License.

Patty has resided in SD36 for 34 years with her husband and is a proud parent of a college freshman, and two grown children and she welcomed her first grandchild this past June. Active in the Church of St Pius X, Bradway’s roots trace back to upbringing on a rural Minnesota farm with 10 siblings and welleducated parents who taught their value of strong work ethics and common sense. Learn more about Patty Bradway and her campaign online: www. Bradway4House.com.

Request council to deny project

On July 23, the city of Vadnais Heights Planning Commission held a public hearing on the proposed development by Reuter Walton Development, to build a five-story, 58-unit apartment building on a 1.75 acre, city-owned parcel at 3400 Arcade St, currently designated as a wetland, and adjacent to four single family homes and to senior housing rental townhomes (Cottages of Vadnais Heights). The proposed development has been recommended for approval by the city planning/community development director, even though it does not comply with several regulations for R-3 land use, which I summarize below:

1. Parking: only 87 parking spaces out of the

116+visitor parking spaces required.

2. Building Height: 53’ , five-story building where the maximum allowed height is 36’, which would allow for a three-story building, and directly behind the backyard for four single family homes.

3. Landscape/Screening: Only 23 trees are proposed where the requirement is 67 major over-story trees required, leaving inadequate buffering between the proposed development and the adjacent properties. The proposed development removes 113 existing trees and natural wetlands.

4. Setbacks: 11.5’ (N and W) and 31’ (S and E) are proposed where the requirement are 53’ in all directions.

5. Density: 33 units per acre, when the current 2040 comprehensive plan limits the maximum density to 22 units/acre. The city is expecting approval from the Metropolitan Council to change this maximum density to 45 units/acre, which will affect the whole city of Vadnais Heights.

The planning commission has allowed all these requirements to be waived with justifications that are not acceptable to the current residents living in this area of Vadnais Heights, benefiting a developer that will greatly profit from this project.

For these reasons I demand the City Council deny approval of this project, unless major changes are made, so that it meets all the R-3 requirements detailed above.

White Bear Class of 1958 65th Year Reunion

Thursday, September 19th 3pm-6pm Hugo American Legion Food & Drinks available for purchase

RSVP: Dean Chawbold 651-246-0592

White Bear Lake Area Church Directory

4525 White Bear Pkwy WBL, MN 55110 faithtwincities.com

Kristi Swanson White Bear Lake

Francisco Romay White Bear Lake

COPS&COURTS

COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Vadnais Heights

• Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested a St. Paul man, 25, at 1:27 a.m. July 7 at the intersection of I-694 and Edgerton Street for driving after cancellation and without proof of insurance, after they observed him driving with a burnt out headlight and pulled him over.

• A Chanhassen woman reported feeling assaulted July 7 after a colleague poked her with a popsicle-sized stick during a wax-application demonstration in the 900 block of County Road E. The manager of a group home in the 500 block of Spring Hill Road on July 7 reported a resident, 17, for slapping another resident during a dispute over use of an iPad.

• A Crystal woman, 35, was arrested July 9 at a retail store in the 800 block of County Road E., after she was caught walking out the front doors without paying for a shopping cart full of merchandise.

• A resident in the 600 block of Belland Avenue on July 9 reported that someone had fraudulently used her bank account to make purchases

totaling $104.13.

• The manager of a non-profit organization in the 4500 block of Bramblewood Avenue on July 10 reported that someone had tried to scam that organization out of $2,500.

• Deputies took due note of a July 11 report from the 70 block of County Road F that a cat was attempting to enter their residence without an invitation.

• An Andover woman reported that someone had appeared to have intentionally keyed her vehicle July 11 while it was parked in the Walmart lot in the 800 block of County Road E.

• A Vadnais Heights woman reported July 11 that someone had scammed her out of $600 in the 800 block of County Road D while claiming to be from “Lending Tree.”

• An Order for Protection (OFP) violation was reported July 11 in the 400 block of Vadnais Road.

• An Eden Prairie woman reported that someone had stolen her wallet out of her vehicle July 11 while she was inside a gas station in the 1000 block of County Road E.

• A Little Canada woman reported that someone stole her wallet July 11 while she was shopping at Marshall’s in the 900 block of County Road E. Video surveillance showed the suspect crawling under a

COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS

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

Dellwood

• Washington County Sheriff's Office deputies were dispatched to a scene of an unwanted person at a Dellwood Road business at 8:17 p.m. July 12 arrived and trespassed the individual from the scene.

• Deputies dispatched to a Dellwood Avenue business at 10:08 p.m. July 12 about a heavily intoxicated male behaving inappropriately toward several women arrived too late to catch the suspect. However, they took a report from several people who observed the incident.

Mahtomedi

• A fight among juveniles was reported at 12:58 a.m. July 7. On arrival at the scene, deputies observed three parties fleeing on foot toward the 800 block of Wildwood Road and caught up to them. After identifying the youths, they handed them over to their guardian.

• Deputies cited a motorist July 7 on Mahtomedi Avenue and Fir Street for failure to yield the right of way, after the vehicle nearly caused an accident with the squad car.

• The plumbing assembly of a fire hydrant at the intersection of Quail Street and Briarwood Avenue was reported stolen July 10.

• A report of a woman sceaming in Hallam Avenue N. at 9:37 p.m. July 11 turned out to be a neighbor singing.

Pine Springs

• Deputies on stationary patrol along Highway 36, a full 12 hours earlier than their usual late night shift, found plenty of motor vehicle violations, first citing a motorist at 10:39 a.m. July 6 for failure to produce a valid driver's license, following a traffic stop for speeding.

• A westbound motorist was cited at 10:57 a.m. July 6 on Highway 36 at the southbound ramp to I-694 for speeding 75 mph in a 55 mph zone, after deputies clocked the vehicle on radar at 75 mph. The driver said he had just left the 65 mph zone and didn't realize his speed.

• Deputies on stationary patrol on Highway 36 at the point where the speed limit falls precipitously from 65 mph to 55 mph, cited a motorist at 11:19 a.m. July 6 for still speeding 68 mph in that new

clothes rack, reaching up and snatching the wallet while the victim’s attention was directed elsewhere. The thief then fled the area.

• A Vadnais Heights woman, 82, was cited July 12 in the 700 block of Clearbrook Lane for violating a Harassment Restraining Order (HRO), after she left an incendiary and accusatory letter about the protected person in a nearby business.

• The suspicious long gun reported wielded by a child in a private backyard in the 500 block of Witt Court on July 13 turned out to be a BB gun.

White Bear Township

• A Little Canada woman on July 7 reported that someone had fraudulently used her bank account in the 1000 block of Meadowlands Drive to make $316 in transactions.

• A resident in the 2500 block of Fourth Street reported that two dogs had knocked over her mother-in-law while she was out for a walk July 8. Deputies had a chat with the dogs and their owner.

• A resident in the 1700 block of Stillwater Street reported that someone had fraudulently cashed a $4,300 check from his account on July 9.

Loretta Harding

55 mph zone.

• A Minnesota motorist was cited at 11:30 a.m. July 6 on Highway 36 for speeding 70 mph in a 55 mph zone by deputies on patrol who clocked the vehicle on radar at 625 feet. Another Minnesota motorist was cited at 11:40 a.m. that day at the same location for speeding 73 mph by deputies who clocked the vehicle on radar at 246 feet.

• This time, it was a Wisconsin motorist cited at 11:51 a.m. July 6 on northbound I-694 at the westbound ramp to Highway 36 for speeding 69 mph in a 55mph zone.

• A northbound motorist was cited at 12:01 p.m. July 6 for speeding 73 mph in a 55 mph zone on I-694 at the westbound ramp to Highway 36 by stationary deputies who clocked the vehicle on radar at 578 feet.

• A repeat speeder was cited at 12:34 p.m. July 6 on northbound I-694 at the ramp to westbound Highway 36 for speeding 71 mph in a 55 mph zone by stationary deputies who clocked her on radar at 438 feet. Deputies stated that before they could ask her if she knew why she was stopped, she said she was speeding and apologized. She added that she had recently been cited at that location for speeding. Deputies checked their onboard computer and confirmed that she had indeed been cited for speeding in Washington County a few weeks earlier.

• Three more Minnesota motorists were cited that same afternoon of July 6 along Highway 36 for speeding, at 12:57 p.m. for speeding 71 mph 772 feet from the radar gun; for speeding 76 mph at 1:22 p.m. and for speeding 74 mph at 1:36 p.m. The final motorist was cited at 1:57 p.m. June 6 on westbound Highway 36 for speeding 70 mph in a 55 mph zone. The driver said he had just entered the freeway and was trying to pass other traffic as he merged.

• As a change of pace, deputies at 4:01 p.m. July 6 fielded questions from an undisclosed Pine Spring location about a peacock.

Willernie

• A husband reported that a female against whom his wife has a Harassment Restraining Order (HRO) gave them the middle finger at 11:47 p.m. June 28 at a Stillwater Road bar. Surveillance video is pending.

WHITE BEAR LAKE POLICE REPORTS

The White Bear Police Department reported the following selected incidents:

• Three homeless men who set up an encampment under the Interstate 694 overpass at White Bear Avenue were asked to leave July 31 because the camp was preventing the public from using the sidewalk, and also two pet cats were defacating on the walkway.

• Theft for a vehicle was reported in the 3400 block of Century Avenue July 31.

• Theft was reported in the 4900 block of Highway 61 July 31.

• Harassment was reported in the 3700 block of Kenny Lane July 31.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 1900 block of Sixth Street Aug. 1.

• A missing person was reported in the 4800 block of Bald Eagle Avenue Aug. 1.

• Officers were called to the Starbucks on Buerkle Road Aug. 1 after staff found a large tactical fighting knife that had been left in the bathroom. The man who claimed the knife has a history of contact with police and was unable to explain why he had it with him. He was advised of the ordinance regarding the carrying of dangerous weapons and asked to leave.

• Theft from a boat was reported in the 4400 block of Old White Bear Avenue Aug. 1. An Oakdale woman was arrested for DWI Aug. 1 following a traffic stop near White Bear Avenue and Buerkle Road.

• Theft was reported Aug. 1 in the 3200 block of White Bear Avenue.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 2100 block of Division Court Aug. 2.

• Burgalry was reported in the 1800 block of Cedar Avenue Aug. 2.

• Park facilites in the 1800 block of Park Street were damaged Aug. 4.

• Officers responded to a noise complaint in the 4200 block of McKnight Road Aug. 4.

• Officers asked a woman to leave an address in the 4300 block of Centerville Road Aug. 4.

• Officers responded to a disorderly conduct incident in the 3700 block of Midland Avenue Aug. 5.

• A noise disturbance was reported in the 2200 block of County Road F Aug. 6.

• A driver was cited for driving after revocation following a complaint of a vehicle driving slow and hitting a curb in the 2100 block of Fourth Street Aug. 6. The passenger, a White Bear Lake man, was arrested for a felony warrant.

Loretta Harding

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

When: 1-6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14

Where: St. Jude of the Lake Catholic Church Gym, 700 Mahtomedi Ave.

Details: Schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. Recieve a $20 Amazon gift card for giving blood in Aug.

FILLEBROWN FRIDAY

When: 10 a.m.-noon Friday, Aug. 16

Where: Fillebrown House, 4735 Lake Ave,

Details: Stop by for a self-guided tour and refreshemnts on the porch. Contact: whitebearhistory.org

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 afety education. Free.

MUSIC @ MANITOU

When: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16

Where: Manitou Ridge Golf Course, 3200 N. McKnight Rd., White Bear Lake

Details: Free live music with Lori Lofstrom, with gopel, rock, and country influences.

Contact: 651-777-2987

VADNAIS HEIGHTS FOOD PROGRAM

When: 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17

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: 612-245-9259 or cityvadnaisheights.com/foodshelf

MUSIC IN THE TREES

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, Aug. 18

Where: Belwin Conservatory, 1553 Stagecoach Trail S., Afton Details: Instrumentalists and vocalists will perform among the red pine grove, one of Belwin’s oldest areas. See lineup online. Contact: belwin.org

MUSIC ON THE LAWN CONCERT SERIES

When: 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18

Where: White Bear Lake United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch St.

Details: Worship ad live music featuring Michael Mothershed and the Westside Brass. Bring blanket or lawn chair.

Contact: 651-429-9026

BIRCHWOOD SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18

Where: Tighe-Schmitz Park

Details: Legacy performs traditional

and contemporary irish music. Contact: legacycelticmusic.com

NEIGHBORHOOD PLANT AND RAINGARDEN TOUR

When: 6-7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19

Where: Location in White Bear Township. provided upon RSVP Details: Tour local yards with a variety of water-friendly and pollinator-friendly landscaping strategies, including upland and wetland buffer native plantings, a curb-cut raingarden, and a downspout raingarden with an underground French drain connection.

Contact: 651-204-6070 or vlawmo.org/ events/neighborhood-tour3

VADNAIS HEIGHTS MUSIC IN THE PARK

When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21

Where: Bridgewood Park

Details: Free outdoor concert featuring Kashimana. Bring blankets and chairs. Opportunioty to meet Mayor Krachmer before music starts. Contact: cityvadnaisheights.com

TOWN HALL TALK: HISTORY OF LACROSSE

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21

Where: White Bear Town Hall, Polar Lakes Park, 1280 Hammond Rd., White Bear Township

Details: Historian John Hunter explores the meaning and significance as well as a hands-on demonstration of the “Creator’s Game” that has been played by local Dakota, Ojibwe and Ho-Chunk tribes for over 400 years. Free.

Contact: whitebearhistory.org

Glazing

Interior

COMMUNITY FUN: Vadnais Days bring entertainment for all ages

Big Toe and the Jam, a jazz/ rock ensemble that covers rock, pop, disco and country genres, will perform on the event stage in Community Park from 2 to 4 p.m. Bluewater Kings Band, who covers contemporary hits from artists like Bruno Mars to Maroon 5, as well as Motown, funk, and classic rock, will play from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Fireworks will be held at 9 p.m. unless weather conditions change.

The festival’s market will be open at the Vadnais Heights Commons on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featured vendors will include local businesses, artists and crafters and food vendors. According to Everett, the market will continue last year’s theme of vendors selling only handmade items. Everett says 33 different vendors will be on-site at the Commons, which is a substantial increase from the prior years’ number.

Kids’ Day will occur Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1

p.m. at Community Park, featuring different childfriendly activities and games.

The Academy for Sciences and Agriculture will present these activities. Children are encouraged to bring unused clothing for a community weaving project. Free inflatables will be at the park from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

The Boy Scouts of America will sponsor a dunk tank at Community Park. Attendees will get a chance to dunk Mayor Mike Krachmer and Council Member Katherine Doll Kanne on Saturday, and Council Members Erik Goebel and Steve Rogers on Sunday.

The Lion’s Club annual Pig Roast fundraiser will serve pork sandwiches, coleslaw, baked beans and other food on Saturday at the event tent in Community Park. Servings will begin at 11:30 a.m. until all the food is gone. Sunday will feature the Fire Relief Association’s Booya sale at the same location, starting at 8 a.m. Other food vendors will also be on-site.

The festival’s Grande

Parade will begin at noon on Sunday at the intersection of McMenemy Street and Commerce Court. It will continue south down McMenemy Street to County

Road F, ending at Clover Avenue. Access to or on the streets of the parade route will be closed from 11:15 a.m. until the parade ends at 1:30 p.m. Bingo will be held at the

event tent at Community Park on Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Merrick Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing day services to intellectually disabled adults, will sponsor the game.

The festival’s classic car show will be held on Sunday at Community Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with awards presented at 2:30 p.m. The Cops’n’ Rodders Classic Car Club will sponsor the show. Festival parking will be available at Community Park and the Vadnais Heights Commons. Street parking will be available around Community Park and Kohler Meadows Park. For more information about Vadnais Heights Days and the schedule of events, go to cityvadnaisheights.com/459/ Vadnais-Heights-Days.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email him at vadnaisheightsnews@ presspubs.com.

The annual Vadnais Heights Days festival is right around the corner. This year will be the first for it to be held under this new name after its original title, “Heritage Days,” was retired this year.

Attendees can expect to see the same attractions returning for this festival’s line-up, including its classic car show.

PHOTOS BY PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

Kids can expect a variety of fun games and activities during the festival’s Kids Day event.

KATIE EVERETT | CONTRIBUTED

Festival attendees will get the opportunity to dunk Mayor Mike Krachmer a the Boy Scouts of America-sponsored dunk tank on Saturday, Aug. 17.

Josh Downey,

PUBLIC NOTICES

VADNAIS HEIGHTS PRESS www.presspubs.com

NORTHEAST METRO 916 WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA

BOARD NOTES JUNE 5, 2024

The regular meeting of the School Board of Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District was held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, 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 6:02 p.m. Roll Call of Attendance

Members present: Knisely-12, Palmer-13, Jones-14, Forsberg-16, Clark-623, Payne-832, Dols- 833, and Hockert-834. Members Absent: Oksnevad-282, Bock-621, Nitardy-622, Daniels-624, and Theisen-831. 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. Board Calendar Dates

• Thursday, June 13, 2024- 916 Foundation Golf Tournament at Oak Marsh at 11:30 a.m.

• Wednesday, August 7, 2024- School Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m.

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

Presentation: Intermediate Teacher Residency Apprenticeship Collaborative (ITRAC)

Megan McAllister, director of Human Resources, presented information regarding the first registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program in Minnesota. The four Intermediate Districts are partnering with the MN Department of Labor and Industry and Minnesota State University Mankato and Brightworks is the sponsor and will be providing oversight and ensuring the program aligns with standards of effective practice. This is a free, two-year program, providing an AA to BA pathway for licensure in ASD and EBD. The program is funded by the Special Education Pipeline Grant, DEED Grant, and $1 million in funding from the state. District 916 has seven Apprentices who have been selected to begin in the Fall.

Presentation: Teacher Development & Evaluation (TDE/QComp)

Scott Thomas, director of educational services, and Ingrid Erickson, TOSA, shared an overview of the new Teacher Development and Evaluation plan. Educators are eligible for up to $1800 in incentive pay for meeting their site goal, individual goal, and a successful evaluation. 916 is the only Intermediate to receive QComp incentive pay. 916 will be replacing the evaluation rubric from Danielson with the Center for Educational Leadership using the 5D+ Framework and Rubric to support teacher growth and development. They shared the work that the team has done and the belief that updating this plan will improve teacher clarity, quality and focus on student-centered learning through and equity lens that is in alignment with our Vision for Student Learning. Scott shared that this is centered on shared beliefs that teachers make a meaningful difference in students’ lives, school administrator share in the responsibility of developing great staff, continuous improvement is valued, and learning is ongoing.

Presentation: Draft Impact Report 2023-24

Communications Coordinator Shannon Hunter presented the Draft Impact Report which provides transparency, accountability, and insights into the progress and effectiveness of the strategic action plan and helps individuals understand the value and outcomes of the district’s efforts. Shannon shared that the district identified 26 benchmarks within the strategic actions for the 23/24 school year. She highlighted the 22 benchmarks that have been completed and shared information on the remaining four that are in process. Shannon ended by showing an end of the year celebration video which highlighted this work.

First Reading of School Board Policy

Policy 502: Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and Student’s Person was presented as a first reading and will be brought back in August for approval.

Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Boe commented on the following items that were included in her written report: (a) Member Highlights; (b) Increased PD for Member District Staff; (c) 916 Graduations; (d) Mahtomedi Academy on the Campus of Century College; and (e) Planning Cycle for our 24/25 Strategic Actions Benchmarks.

Closed Session

The meeting will be closed as permitted by Minn Stat §13D.03, subdivision 1 to consider strategy for labor negotiations at 7:00 p.m. The regular meeting was reconvened at 7:11 p.m.

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

Renewal of Superintendent Contract

Approval of School Board Policy

Approved Policy 502: Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and Student’s Person

Ratification of Education Assistant Federation Local 2343 Contract

Ratified the contract between the School District and Education Assistant Federation Local 2343 for the period of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026.

FY24 Budget Revision

Northeast Metro 916 has been awarded grants throughout FY24. The budget revision includes the additional revenues and expenditures reflected in the FY24 budget. Approved the revised 2023-24 budget.

FY25 Budget Approval

A first reading of the FY25 budget was held at the May 1 Board Meeting.

Approved the 2024-25 budget for Northeast Metro 916.

FY25 Tuition, Membership, and Access Fees

Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District annually sets rates for tuition, membership and access fees. Approved the tuition, membership and access fees for 2024-25.

Approval of Food Service Agreements

Northeast Metro 916 contracts with member districts to provide food services for the students in our programs located across multiple member districts. Approved the food service agreements with Centennial, Columbia Heights and White Bear Lake for the 2024-25 school year and Stillwater for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school year.

Approval of Know the Truth Contract

Know the Truth will provide chemical health individual and group support to all three ALC sites, Quora Secondary School and WELS-North. Approve the agreement between Know the Truth and Northeast Metro 916 to provide chemical health services for the period of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 in the amount of $103,322.80.

Approval of Playworks Contract

Playworks helps schools, districts, youth programs, and other organizations make the most of recess (or their play time) through on-site staffing, consultative support, professional development, and free resources. Approved the contract between Northeast Metro 916 and Playworks in the amount of $83,000 from 9/3/24 to 6/6/25.

Approval of Changes to FY25 School Calendar

The 2024-25 academic calendar that was approved by the School Board in March included one additional day for our EAS/EA employees. This revised calendar reflects an adjustment to make April 18, 2025, a non-duty day for the EAS/EA group. Additionally, 916 Mahtomedi Academy has been removed from the attached calendar as they are now on a modified calendar which was approved by the School Board in April. Approved the revised 2024-25 academic calendar

Approval of Lease, Facilities Use, and Cooperation Agreement be-

tween Century College and Northeast Metro 916

WHEREAS: Northeast Metro 916 and Century College have a longstanding Joint Powers Agreement that allows us to operate Northeast Metro 916’s Career & Technical Education programs serving our 13 member districts, and WHEREAS: The Lease, Facilities Use, And Cooperation Agreement supersedes the prior Joint Powers Agreement and specifies the space, lease fees, and processes that allow for continued collaboration with Century College and Northeast Metro 916. The agreement is for five (5) years, and

BE IT RESOLVED, by the School Board Northeast Metropolitan Intermediate School District No. 916, that the Lease, Facilities Use, And Cooperation Agreement with Century College serve as an agreement between our parties in mutual support of Career & Technical Education in Northeast Metro 916. approve the Lease, Facilities Use, And Cooperation Agreement between Century College and Northeast Metro 916.

Approval of Avanti Center Agreement to Provide Educational Services

The purpose of this agreement is to provide educational services to students who are admitted to the Avanti Center for the 2024-25 school year. This program is operated in Blaine, and is at the request of Spring Lake Park Schools. Approved the agreement between the Avanti Center and Northeast Metro 916 to provide educational services for children and adolescent residents who are admitted to the Avanti Center for the period August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025.

Approval of Educational Services Agreement with Spring Lake Park ISD 16

This agreement is for Northeast Metro 916 to provide educational services on behalf of the Spring Lake Park School District for those students who are enrolled at Avanti Center residential treatment program. Approved an agreement for Northeast Metro 916 to provide the educational services at Avanti Center on behalf of the Spring Lake Park School District from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.

Approval of Educational Services Agreement with South Washington County ISD 833

This agreement is for Northeast Metro 916 to provide educational services on behalf of the South Washington County School District for students who are placed at Aris Clinic Outpatient Treatment Facility. Approved an agreement for Northeast Metro 916 provide the educational services at Aris on behalf of the South Washington County School District for the term July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2028.

Approval of Contract Agreement with City of Fridley

This contract replaces the previous contract with the City of Fridley in which the Fridley Police Department provides a full-time SRO at Metro Heights Academy for the school year. Approved a two-year agreement between Northeast Metro 916 and the City of Fridley, for the Fridley Police Department to provide a full-time School Resource Officer (SRO) at Metro Heights Academy commencing July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026 in the amount of $312,500.

Approval of CDW Quotes

In an attempt to leverage bulk buying power and make deliveries easier to manage, 916’s IT department has worked with each individual program to consolidate all staff and student device replacements into a single order, submitted at the beginning of the school year. This order represents all of the orders for staff windows laptops, as well as staff and student Chromebooks, as well as some ancillary accessories and devices, for all 916 programs this summer. These devices are quoted from our usual technology vendor and on Sourcewell joint purchasing contracts, they will still be cross-charged to individual program budgets as appropriate when distributed by the IT department.

Approved the quote submitted by CDWG in the amount of $161,517.95.

Approval of Apple Contract

In an attempt to leverage bulk buying power and make deliveries easier to manage, 916’s IT department has worked with each individual program to consolidate all Apple device replacements into a single order, submitted at the beginning of the school year. This order represents all of the orders for staff and student Apple devices, as well as some ancillary accessories, for all 916 programs this summer. This purchase is directly through Apple, under the PEPPM Cooperative purchasing agreement (Bid 535802).

Approved the quote submitted by Apple Inc in the amount of $128,487.

Approval of Matrix Quote

Each year the 916 IT Department puts out for bid through the federal E-rate program for equipment and services relating to our summer infrastructure replacement projects. This quote represents the replacement of existing endof-life wired network switching equipment and yearly licensing. These items are eligible for up to 80% reimbursement through the federal E-rate grant program. However, because our reimbursement is not guaranteed, we have allocated sufficient budget for this entire order in the budget for this year.

Approved the quote submitted by Matrix Communications in the amount of $62,632.54.

Approval of Cable Cloud Contract

This quote represents competitively bid low-voltage installation services through a local low-voltage installer. These services include the labor and hardware for installation and wiring of networking equipment purchased through the E-rate program. These services are eligible for up to 80% reimbursement through the federal E-rate grant program. However, because our reimbursement is not guaranteed, we have allocated sufficient budget for this entire order in the budget for this year. Approved the quote submitted by Cable Cloud in the amount of $56,432.90.

Approval of Comcast Cable Communications Management Agreement

Requesting approval of Comcast fiber Internet renewal contract, with an expected cost of $73,010.28, for a term of five years. The contract should not be materially different from our previous contract. We anticipate approval of this contract for Federal E-rate grant reimbursement of 80%. However, since the grant is not guaranteed, we have included the full amount for these services in our budget. A sample contract is attached and a final version of this contract will come to the board in August if there is a substantial difference in the contract. Approved the contract with Comcast in the amount of $73,010.28 starting July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029. Board Forum

Member Hockert shared that Stillwater held an Open House for their new St Croix Valley Area Learning Center, which is in the newly renovated Oak Park Heights Elementary building.

Member Dols shared that construction starts in South Wash this summer. A church was purchased and renovated and the Next Steps and Pathways programs will be moving into that location.

Chair Forsberg shared that Commissioner Jett visited the Pathways programs in Spring Lake Park. She also let the Board know that a Superintendent Evaluation will be sent out to them in the Summer and will be brought to the Board in August or September for approval. Chair Forsberg shared that it benefits the Superintendent to have a consistent annual evaluation.

Meeting Adjourned

Adjourned the meeting at 7:47 p.m.

Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 14, 2024.

RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA OFFICE OF THE COUNTY MANAGER

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MINUTES JULY 23, 2024

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners met in regular session at 9:02 a.m. with the following members present: Frethem, McGuire, Moran, Ortega, Reinhardt, Xiong and Chair Martinson. Also present were Johanna Berg, County Manager, and Jada Lewis, Civil Division Director, Ramsey County Attorney’s Office.

AGENDA of July 23, 2024 was presented for approval Motion by McGuire, seconded by Ortega. Unanimously approved.

MINUTES of July 09, 2024 were presented for approval Motion by Ortega, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT – Read by Commissioner Frethem.

PROCLAMATION

Community Corrections - Pretrial, Probation and Parole Supervision Week. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ORDINANCE PROCEDURES

Emergency Management & Homeland Security – Proposed Emergency Management and Homeland Security Department

Ordinance - Waive Second Reading and Hold the Public Hearing. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-130)

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS

Community & Economic Development – Agreement with AECOM for Additional Design Services for the Park at RiversEdge. Motion by Frethem, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-131)

Parks & Recreation – Amendments to the Project Budget and Financing Plan for the Battle Creek Regional Parks Waterworks Facility Renovation Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024132)

Parks & Recreation – Grant Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for Federal Recreational Trail Program 2024 Equipment Grant. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-133)

Parks & Recreation Grant Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for Federal Recreational Trail Program 2024 Grant Award for Trail Extension. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-134)

Property Management, Enterprise and Administrative Services – Lease Agreement with Maplewood Partners, LLC for Temporary Service Center Space. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-135)

Property Management – Agreement with Dering Pierson Group, LLC for Maplewood Mall Service Center Remodel Project. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-136)

Workforce Solutions – Appointments to the Workforce Innovation Board of Ramsey County. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-137)

County Assessor’s Office Property Tax Abatements. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-138)

County Assessor’s Office – Local Option Disaster Tax Abatements. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-139)

Public Health – Personnel Complement Increase in the Public Health Department through the Response Sustainability Grant. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-140)

Public Health – Personnel Complement Increase in the Public Health Department through the Foundational Public Health Responsibilities Grant. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024141)

Human Resources – Salary Schedule and Grade Allocation for Deputy Director Information Services - Unclassified Service. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-142)

Housing Stability – Grant Award from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Continuum of Care Planning Grant. Motion by Xiong, seconded by Frethem. Unanimously approved. (B2024-143)

County Attorney’s Office, Sheriff’s Office, Safety and Justice, Health and Wellness – Amendment to the Agreement with Minnesota Department of Public Safety for Therapeutic Youth Treatment Homes and Violence Prevention - Wrap Around Service. Motion by Xiong, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-144)

POLICY ITEM

Board of Commissioners – Election of the Chair for the Remainder of 2024. Motion by Moran, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024145)

Board of Commissioners – Election of the Vice-Chair for the Remainder of 2024. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by Frethem. Unanimously approved. (B2024-146)

Board of Commissioners – Removal of Appointment to the Ramsey County Housing and Redevelopment Authority for 2024. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by Frethem. Unanimously approved. (B2024-147)

Board of Commissioners Removal of Appointment to the Ramsey County Regional Railroad Authority for 2024. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-148)

Board of Commissioners – Amendment of Appointments to Standing Committees for 2024. Motion by Reinhardt, seconded by McGuire. Unanimously approved. (B2024-149)

Board of Commissioners – Amendment of Appointments to Outside Board for 2024. Motion by Frethem, seconded by Reinhardt. Unanimously approved. (B2024-150)

COUNTY CONNECTIONS

Presented by County Manager, Johanna Berg. 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 Martinson. Discussion can be found on archived video. OUTGOING BOARD CHAIR REMARKS

Remarks by outgoing Board Chair, Trista Martinson. Discussion can be found on archived video.

ADJOURNMENT

Chair Martinson declared the meeting adjourned at 11:04 a.m. Published one time in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 14, 2024. STATE OF MINNESOTA, COUNTY OF RAMSEY DISTRICT COURT, SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FILE NO. 61-PR-24-566

CASE TYPE: INFORMAL PROBATE

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS (WITHOUT A WILL) Estate of Pang Xiong Vang, Decedent TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS:

Notice is hereby given that an Amended Application filed on August 8, 2024 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: Keng Vang of 1916 Ripley Avenue, Maplewood 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. § 524.3-607, 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.

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

August 8, 2024

Attorney for Personal Representative

AMY RAE MASON, Attorney License No.: 347760

Cummins & Bonestroo Law Office PLLC

200 Professional Building, 363 5th Avenue North, Bayport MN 55003

Telephone: 651-430-2630; amason@cblawoffices.com

Published two times in the Vadnais Heights Press on August 14 and 21, 2024.

Family cheers on Olympic sailor in Paris

BY JAY RENDALL SPECIAL TO THE PRESS

Three years of anticipation shifted to three weeks of amazing Olympic experiences starting in Paris on July 23 for the Dallman-Weiss family of Hugo, who has strong ties with the White Bear Sailing School and White Bear Yacht Club. The Opening Ceremony in Paris was spectacular and even the rain couldn’t dampen their spirits as sailors are used to getting wet. Lara Dallman-Weiss was among the USA Olympians waving to the cameras and the spectators on the shore of the Seine River as they went through Paris on the United States Olympic team’s boat. “Epic doesn’t even begin to describe it,” said Dallman-Weiss in a post.

Before the Olympic activities began, Dallman-Weiss connected with her parents, John Weiss and Sue Dallman, in Paris. That alone was a special start to the Olympic experience because they were not allowed to attend when Dallman-Weiss went to the Tokyo Olympics three years ago. After John and Sue watched the Opening Ceremony, they spent the next few days meandering south through France as they headed to the Olympic sailing venue in Marseille on the Mediterranean Sea.

Dallman-Weiss, after mingling and rubbing elbows with the United States best summer athletes in Paris, also headed to the Olympic sailing venue in Marseille. She was excited to sail there because she and her sailing partner Stu McNay, also a past Olympian from Barrington, Rhode Island, sailed there as the U.S. representative in an Olympic Test Event regatta last summer. They had done well in the strong mistral winds of France.

This year’s Olympic sailing races began on Aug. 2 and there was no sign of the mistral winds. Dallman-Weiss and McNay had a slow start to the week-long Olympic regatta and after the light winds of the first day, they

had 9th and 17th place finishes among the 19-boat fleet. On the second day of racing, there were much better winds. In the third race, they had a great start and were 4th at the first mark, moved up to third for a while, and finished in 4th. It was looking promising as they moved up to 9th place overall after four races, with six to go. On day three they had an 11th and 6th place finishes.

Then light winds, which were a problem during much of Olympic sailing this year, returned on Day 4. Races were started and later cancelled because of inadequate wind. Much to the disappointment of sailors and the race committee, the light winds persisted on Day 5. Despite the poor winds, two races were sailed with Dallman-Weiss and McNay finishing 12th in one race. Their final standing after eight races was 13th place, below the cut off of 10th place to sail in the Medal Race on the final day.

After three years of training on and off the water in Miami, travelling to and around Europe to train and compete with the world’s top sailors

in the 470 class of sailboat, DallmanWeiss and McNay’s 2024 Olympic sailing campaign came to a close. The two elite, World-class athletes said it is such an honor to represent their country, wear the Olympic attire, and sail with the American flag on their spinnaker.

They both had higher expectations for themselves. “That’s how it goes in the life we lead, you pour your heart out for the campaign…it’s certainly emotional,” Dallman-Weiss said afterward. “I’m proud of what we put together. I know we’ll end on a high and grateful note, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult in the moment. We’re so grateful to our community of friends and family and supporters who have been our village for the last year and a half as we prepared to represent the US on Olympic waters once again.”

What the spike?! A Q&A with Dr. Craig

Throughout the summer, doctors at the Vadnais Heights, Woodbury and Eagan Urgency Rooms have seen a startling uptick in COVID-19 cases in the area. From mid-June to late July, the positivity rate in COVID-19 cases has jumped from 9 to 29%. Press Publications recently spoke to Dr. Craig Matticks, medical director for the Urgency Room, to discuss what has accounted for the rise in cases.

Q: What, in your opinion, is the reason why the positivity rate for COVID cases was so high last month?

A: It’s a function of the seasonal variation we see with respiratory pathogens. People gather close to one another in the summer and travel across the county to attend different celebrations. It’s also a function of close proximity when people travel through the airport. They’re coming into contact with people from all over the country and into a community where they’re carrying that infection with them. It’s like the perfect storm.

Q: How do these numbers compare to those at the height of the pandemic?

A: They are lower, but it’s still demonstrating a recent resurgence. We’ve gotten so used to COVID coming and going in waves that we saw new patterns. When the virus mutated into different strains, those with natural immunity would catch its next version, which I think we’re seeing right now. With flu season over, we’re back to having these episodic encounters with COVID.

Q: In your opinion, has the public become more selfaware about testing for COVID-19 should they feel symptoms?

A: At the clinics, I see more patients who have had cold or respiratory symptoms for a few days. Most of them say they’ve done a home COVID test that reads negative. They usually seek confirmation via another testing mechanism or to see if they have another illness. In those instances, we do antigen tests to determine if the COVID cases are positive. These

are usually more reliable than standard home tests.

Q: How does the age range of these cases factor into the overall case rise?

A: We’re seeing a relatively diffuse spread across all age groups. The severity rates among senior citizens are also reassuringly low. Thankfully, we’ve not seen the same Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and hospital admissions rate since the pandemic’s peak. A big part of that is because in the four years since COVID began, most people have gotten vaccinated, which confers immunity. The same goes for those who have already had a prior case of COVID. You don’t get ill when your immune system is already primed for an infection. Those factors are what makes these cases different from past ones.

Q: According to a March 25 CDC update, in fall 2023, over 95% of all hospitalized adults worldwide were not up-to-date with their COVID vaccine. Based on this statistic, are there concerns

The Olympic experience for Dallman-Weiss and her parents continued through the closing ceremony. Dallman-Weiss thought having her family and friends visit France to support her through the Olympics was a “beautiful” experience. Most people will never have that experience, unless they are fortunate have a son, daughter, or grandchild who has the rare combination of unique athletic skills, unending determination, and a strong work ethic that would make them an Olympic representative from our country — just like Dallman-Weiss. “It’s such a joy for me to share the experience of being an Olympic sailor, especially with young sailors.” she said. “People can follow me on Instagram at @Ldallman to ask questions or say hello.”

Matticks

that these numbers could continue to rise locally?

A: The potential is always there. People should still try to keep up with their vaccines every year, like with the flu. The virus is still changing, so the vaccine itself has to change to account for that. People’s immunity does wane over time, which is what boosters are for. While it’s not unique to the virus that you need to have a booster, the boosters should be modified due to the virus’ evolution rate. If people aren’t getting their most recent booster, they are putting themselves at risk. That increases the chances you might require hospitalization.

Q: What would you say to those who don’t want to get the vaccine or boosters?

A: Being healthy does make your immune system more robust. At the same time, people should look at what the healthcare community has done to prevent its workforce from being incapacitated. They require vaccination unless there are medical or religious

exemptions. Staying healthy, being outside, and social distancing are helpful strategies for preventing COVID. But once you have it, how better off you are will still depend on whether or not you are vaccinated.

Compiled by Erik Suchy

1. If you have COVID, stay away from others until at least 24 hours after your symptoms have improved or you have not had a fever.

2. After these 24 hours, resume normal activities for five days with added precautions. These include wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, and continuously taking tests for respiratory viruses.

3. If you start getting a fever again after 24 hours, restart steps one and two until all symptoms are clear.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Lara Dallman-Weiss and Stu-McNay ended their Olympics pursuit with a 13th place finish in the Mixed 470 sailing event.

Sue Dallman and John Weiss, of Hugo, took part in the Olympics festivities in Paris.

CLASSIFIEDS

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White Bear Lakecall 651-295-1843.

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HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Ho using Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preferen ce limitation or discriminat ion based on race co lo r, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or nationa l origin, or an intention, to make any such preferen ce, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 livin g with parents or legal custod ians; pregnant women and peop le securing custody of children under 18. This

call

receive. I hope they keep in touch with those here to build those connections into lifetime-lasting relationships.”

The program will run for four weeks, beginning on Aug. 12. First, students will meet the families they will be staying with and learn about life and culture in Minnesota. In the second week, students will learn about government and visit the Minnesota State Capitol. Week three will focus on business and healthcare, with students visiting local businesses and health care facilities. Students will also learn about systems that support public health and technological advancements that influence healthcare overall. In week four, students will learn about the importance of nonprofit

organizations. Students will return to Ukraine on Sept. 15.

The picnic will be held at the end of the first week, with Rotary Club members educating students how service clubs function. The picnic will include lunch, swimming and games like beach volleyball. While the event is not open to the public, White Bear Lake and Mahtomedi High School students are encouraged to attend to socialize and get to know the exchange students.

To learn more about the YouLEAD program or to get involved, visit globalsynergygroup.org/youthleadership-exchange-youlead-2024.

Erik Suchy is a staff writer at Press Publications. To reach him, please contact him at 651-407-1229 or email him at whitebearnews@presspubs.com.

PUBLIC SAFETY BRIEF

Jet ski accident on lake leads to injury

Two teenagers, both 19, were involved in a jet ski accident at 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7. on White Bear Lake. According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, one of the teenagers was driving a

jet ski and trying to tow a kayak to the shore. The teen in the kayak advised the driver not to go in reverse. The jet skier misheard the kayaker and put the jet ski into reverse, which caused the rope to wrap around the kayaker’s arm. The kayaker

Waiting Child

went under the water for a brief moment. Both made it to shore, where the fire department cut the rope from the kayaker’s arm. The kayaker sustained minor injuries.

OBITUARIES

Dana Kay Smith

White Bear Lake, MN — Dana Kay Smith passed away peacefully in her home in White Bear Lake, MN on July 23, 2024, at age 73. She drew her last breath as the Northern Cardinal sang on her favorite bird clock. She was surrounded by her immediate family: her husband of 44 years, Ron (Damon) Lansverk, daughter Eryn Lansverk, plus three loving dogs and cat Meiko.

She passed from pancreatic cancer, which she fought the last 10 months and died without pain and at peace. She loved nature, the trails of the Little Belt Mountains of MT, being a mother, author, attorney and supporter of her communities and friends.

Dana was a native of Great Falls, MT, and daughter of Richard (Monty) and Dorothy (Dot) Smith who both preceded her in death. She is survived by her sister Monta Bell (Jack) of Billings, brother Richard of Brook Park, MN and twin sister Darcy (Rick) Greene of Peoria, AZ plus many extended family members and friends in Minnesota, Montana, Washington, and Arizonia.

A graduate of Great Falls High School, Dana received a BA in Journalism from The University of Montana and a JD from the University of Montana Law School. She successfully practiced law for over 44 years. She was an avid skier, and a member of the Great Falls, Kings Hill/ Showdown National Ski Patrol in Neihart, MT and Nordic Ski Patrol in Minnesota. She and Ron relocated to Saint Paul in 1985, Dana as General Counsel for IFG Leasing before beginning a 22-year career in the Legal Department for the St. Paul AgriBank.

In 1982 Dana and Ron purchased a ski cabin in Neihart, MT. After both Dana and Ron had retired, in 2018, they sold their Neihart cabin and purchased another towards Monarch with more acreage and a “much better view” where they spent about 6 months of the year. Dana was active in both her home communities: in White Bear Lake at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, and her local book club, in Neihart she was an active volunteer for Neihart-Monarch Senior Center where she served breakfast on Sundays and was active for 6 years for the Neihart Inconvenience Store Co-op of Neihart, serving on the non-profit’s board as Secretary for six years and in organizing the group’s annual Labor Day fundraising event and raffle to fund the store. She often referred to her female friends in the area as the “Neihart Mafia” as they worked as such a team to support the community which she cherished.

Services will be held Friday, August 16, at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church (900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN) with visitation at 10 a.m., Celebration of Life at 11, inurnment immediately following and reception/lunch at 12 noon. Pastors Carol Lundell and Brian Norsman will officiate. A second Celebration will be held in Neihart, MT mid-September at a day and place to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dana K Smith Memorial Garden near Monarch, MT, sent to 1363 Birchcrest Drive, White Bear Lake, MN 55110 or by using this link; https://venmo. com/u/DanaKSmithMemorialGarden Dana lived her life to the fullest by her favorite sentiment…

“I will delight in each day of life.” - Dana K Smith 1995 BRADSHAW FUNERAL HOME - (651) 407-8300

Jean Rew (Yeager) Ljungkull

Passed away on August 7, 2024 at the age of 93. She is preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Gunnar Rolf Ljungkull; parents, Christine and Edward Yeager; son, Jon Ljungkull; and sister, Lysbeth Ann Toribio. She is survived by daughters, Christine Ljungkull (Doug MacAulay), Jane Ljungkull; daughterin-law, Deb Ljungkull; half sister, Lila Jones; sister-in-law, Greta Garmers; cousins in Scotland; grandchildren and great grandchildren; and her many nieces and nephews.

Jean was born and grew up in St. Paul. She graduated from Central High School, studied at Macalester College and graduated from Lakewood Community College as an older adult. She and Gunnar moved from St. Paul to White Bear Lake in the early 60s. She worked for many years at Engen’s Paint Store. After retiring, she volunteered at the Science Museum of Minnesota for many years. Private Interment at Oakland Cemetery in St. Paul.

Marlene J. (LaMotte) Hoffman

Age 86 of Hugo passed away 8/3/2024. Preceded in death by husband, Bob; parents, Walt & Fern. Survived by son, Greg; grandsons, Dalton & Garret; sisters, Linda & Kathy. A celebration of life will be held 8/19/2024 from 1-3pm at the White Bear Lake United Methodist church. Marlene was a lifelong resident of the Hugo/ WBL area. She worked at Taymark Inc. for many years. Even after retirement she liked getting together for lunch with the Taymark ladies. She loved the Lord and her family. You couldn’t find a bigger MN sports fan. She sang in the Sweet Adeline’s women’s choir for years and loved spending time with the “singing ladies” we can all take comfort in knowing that her body is healed and made whole again. She is in heaven now and reunited with Bob.

Donna Marie Williams (Johnson)

beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on July 19th , 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 on Monday September 23rd at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, MN, 55115. Visitation at 10:00, Celebration of Life at 11:00 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. Arrangements by Mueller Lake Mortuary, White Bear Lake, MN.

Memorials may be directed to Smile Network International. Full Life Story posted at Muellermemorial.com

Please submit your favorite photo of your pet for a chance to have it showcased in our ‘All About Pets’ special section.

Email photos to: artmanager@presspubs.com

Submission deadline: August 21, 2024

Will appear week of August 24, 2024

One booya to rule them all: Behind Vadnais Heights Days’ signature dish

BY ERIK SUCHY STAFF WRITER

Whether you attend the Vadnais Heights Days festival to celebrate its community, history, or both, one feature you won’t want to miss is the booya, made and served by the Vadnais Heights Fire Department’s Relief Association.

“It’s one of those traditions that’s been going on for so long in so many communities,” said Vadnais Heights Fire Department Chief Chris Hearden.

“Booya has been part of this area forever and sells out quickly. It’s a tradition all in itself that people buy it and support whatever organization sells it.”

Booya sales have driven the city’s fundraising efforts for 60 years. The Vadnais Heights Booster Club, which later retitled itself the Community Club, held its first booya sale at Lake Vadnais Park in 1963. The sales raised money for athletic activities, Scouting programs, and bike and safety courses. In 1971, the Community Club

passed the torch to the newly formed Vadnais Heights Fire Department for all future booya sales. As a bonus, several Community Club members would become the first group of firefighters at the department.

Some of the fondest booya memories are ones that come from its makers. One of those is Lieutenant and Association Member Mark Sheldon. Sheldon served as booya chef and sales organizer from 2013 to 2023. “One thing that sticks out to me is when the retirees first show up,” said Sheldon. “On the day of the booya sale, we have department retirees who served for 15 or more years get first servings before the general public. We always give it to them for free, and it’s nice to see their faces and chat with them. The stories they tell are great, so it’s a fun time overall to be with them.”

Sheldon also remembers the process of making the booya the weekend of the festival. “On Saturday morning, we muster as many guys from the department as possible,” he said. “At that point, we start getting the kettles out and sanitizing them; the more hands, the better. We’ll usually get about a thousand pounds of beef and chicken, cook it down, then pull it out to gather the broth. Once we get it shredded down, we divide it up into the kettles. We then divide the vegetables next and toss in the spices. We cook it all through the night until it simmers and is ready for Sunday morning.” According to Sheldon, the department’s new recruits are put in charge of stirring the booya every 15 minutes throughout the night.

Douglas Gerlach is the current

relief association chef, having taken over the position from Sheldon in 2023. According to Gerlach, the booya recipe has remained consistent since the association began serving it. “What has changed is the number of kettles,” said Gerlach. “At one point in time, we had 27 kettles that we used to cook it. The current number we use is seven. We’ve arrived at that number through years of trial and error to determine the ideal amount to cook.”

Gerlach also said that booya is a perfect dish to appeal to Vadnais Heights residents. This attraction relates to the diverse range of citizens that have made up the city’s population in recent years. “Booya appeals to our community by being a shared event everyone can participate in,” said Gerlach. “It’s unique to this place, as booya isn’t found outside the upper Midwest. Vadnais Heights booya allows residents, new and old, to connect through a shared tradition. Plus, it’s such a good stew!”

Bees and Trees: Handcrafted wooden games, honey and maple syrup

BY MADELINE DOLBY EDITOR

Tracy Pluim is from a small town in Southern Minnesota. His family moved to the north metro in 2018 and shortly after, Bees and Trees was created.

Pluim became interested in beekeeping after watching Youtube videos about it. He had found a guy in New Hampshire who recorded his process of starting with nothing and learning his way through.

From there, Pluim bought a single beehive. Now, he has three hives that he collects honey from and sells it. “We try to use the honey in different ways,” Pluim said. “We have hot honey, that is just honey with Caroline Repaper peppers and Ghost peppers.” Other products include honey butter and a creamed vanilla honey.

At the same time, he also began to tap the maple trees in his family’s backyard to make maple syrup.

“There were a couple of different names,” Pluim explained. “The first one was ‘Shoreview Sugar’ because we were just selling sugar and maple syrup at that point.”

Later, Pluim began to sell his woodworking pieces. His pieces include handcrafted wooden games and items. A friend recommended the name “Bees and Trees” and helped design the current logo.

Pluim’s interest in woodworking comes from his dad, by watching him do tasks around the house.

“He did everything. From changing the oil in the car to electrical to plumbing. If our house needed it, he did it,” he said.

One night on a family walk, Pluim pulled a wooden pallet out of a neighbor’s dumpster and decided to see if he could make something out of it.

“I took a pallet out of that and made my first silhouette of Minnesota out of it,” said Pluim. He created the silhouette by taking a part the pallet and using a jigsaw to rearrange the pieces.

Once his Minnesota silhouettes gained traction online, people began to request other states, including Wisconsin and North Dakota. Some requested silhouettes of different countries.

“From that money, I bought my first

CNC (computer numerical control) machine,” said Pluim. “And from there I was able to make cribbage boards.”

Pluim has continued to gather wooden pallets from different area businesses to make a variety of pieces. He has moved away from the silhouettes. Now, he focuses on cribbage boards, cutting boards and other hardwood products.

The cribbage boards can be etched with multiple designs. Pluim’s cribbage boards include the outline of Target Field, an outline of a football stadium and a hockey rink. Customers can then choose what sports team they want to represent. Boards can be customized to include a family name or logo too.

Bees and Trees products can be purchased at Churchill St. in Shoreview and at Olive Branch Oil & Spice Company in White Bear Lake. They also can be purchased online at www.beesandtreesmn.com.

Madeline Dolby is the editor of The Shoreview Press. She can be reached at 651-431-1226 or shoreviewnews@ presspubs.com.

A collection of honey bees from Tracy Pluim’s hive in his backyard.

Bees and Trees sells various products at Olive Branch Oil & Spice company in White Bear Lake.

Pluim and his family grab a photo while hiking.

Booya has been a signature Vadnais Heights dish for over 60 years.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

Customers can buy a variety of Pluim’s woodwork, from cutting boards to customizable cribbage boards.

PAUL DOLS | PRESS PUBLICATIONS

At the booya kettle are Glenn Rusler and Shawn Fertch.